Two Yearning Hearts

29

Parvati slowly opened her eyes. It took her a moment to realize she had dozed off with the kids  nestled beside her. She was curious about Suyash. She glanced at the clock. It was six. With a gentle touch, she pulled the duvet higher, ensuring the kids were cozy, and quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb their sleep. 

She stepped into the main hall, searching for Suyash and the sight of Suyash sitting on a makeshift bedding on the floor caught her by surprise. He was completely engrossed in his laptop, the glow of the screen illuminating his focused expression. The sight struck her with guilt; he had chosen to sleep here instead of in a proper bed, all because of her.

“Mr. Mehra…” She said softly, approaching him, and sat down beside him on the floor. 

“Up already?” Suyash looked at her, a genuine smile breaking across his face.

“I’m really sorry, Mr. Mehra. You had to sleep here because of me,” Parvati said, regret seeping into her voice.

Suyash shook his head, dismissing her worries. “No big deal, Parvati ji. Honestly, I’m grateful you took care of my kids.”

Feeling a bit better, she returned his smile. “I’ll make you some coffee.”

His eyes lit up. “That would be great.”

She quickly brushed her teeth and headed to the kitchen. The smell of fresh coffee filled the air as she brewed two mugs. Once the coffee was ready, she returned to him, handing him a cup before settling back down beside him.

“Thanks, Parvati ji,” he said, taking a warm sip and visibly relaxing.

As she sipped her own coffee, she watched him work. His brow furrowed in concentration.The quiet of the morning surrounded them, broken only by the soft clicking of keys. “What are you working on?” She asked, curious.

“Just some office stuff,” he replied, clearly focused on the screen.

Parvati realized he had come back home bringing not just his belongings, but his work too. Rolling her eyes playfully, she said, “Mr. Mehra, it’s the weekend! You should be hanging out with the kids, not glued to your laptop.”

Suyash chuckled. “That’s why I’m tackling this now—so I can finish before the kids wake up.”

She shook her head, amazed at his dedication. Is he even a human? She wondered, watching him juggle work and family.

He turned to her, a smirk spreading across his face. “And don’t think I forgot about our morning walk. I’ll wrap this up soon, and then we will head out.”

“Do you really think I find excuses to avoid going on morning walks?” Parvati replied, her expression turning grumpy. “I’m not lazy!”

“Okay, okay,” he laughed, enjoying her playful annoyance.

After Suyash finished his work, they headed to the park where he normally went for a jog. Parvati enjoyed a leisurely walk with Suyash and then Suyash jogged a few laps. After some time, he returned, panting and flushed, and plopped down beside her on the bench.

“Here,” she said, handing him a bottle of water. He took a long drink, then noticed her saree pulled tightly around her shoulders.

“Feeling cold?” he asked, closing the water bottle.

Parvati nodded. “Just a little.”

“Me too,” he replied with a smile, as the morning air was brisk. “Let’s head home.”

She agreed, and they stood up from the bench, making their way towards his car. As they walked, he asked, “are you taking your medicines regularly?”