Here After!

28. Unexpected Joys and Family Moments

Anu

Every morning when I return home, he's there, sleeping peacefully, a sense of calm wrapped around him. Gently, I nudge him to make a little space beside him, and as soon as he senses me close, he pulls me into his arms, showering me with soft kisses before holding me tightly. This has been our routine for the past three months, a quiet, comforting ritual that feels like home. Since he returned to work, though, time together has become scarce. These precious two hours in the morning are our moments, and with each passing day, I feel the depth of what we share and how much he means to me growing stronger.

As the morning light filters through, I settle into his arms, feeling the warmth and security they bring. It's our unspoken promise to be here for each other, no matter how fleeting the time might be. On days like this, I often drift off again, feeling his steady heartbeat next to me, like a quiet assurance that he's there.

Eventually, the alarm pulls us out of our bubble, signaling the start of another busy day. We exchange a few sleepy words, soft laughter, and tender smiles before we part ways—him to his office and me back to sleep. These moments are simple but full, reminding me that even with all the demands on our time, our connection is still there, strong and growing.

Finally, we managed to carve out some time on a weekend to stay with my family. It had been too long since we spent quality time with them, and this visit gave Mom the perfect excuse to stay with Gayu for a few days. During the day, she usually stayed at home while I slept, but with me at my parents' place, she could enjoy some time with Gayu without worrying about me.

We dropped Mom off at Gayu's, then headed to my parents' house. Anish was already there, greeting us with his usual energy. As we exchanged pleasantries, Anitta arrived with her in-laws, looking happier than when I last saw her. She had been a bit down when Pradeep had to travel to the U.S., even though they had planned it together. But now, the energy felt different like we were all settling back into our routines with our partners, and we could even start discussing dates for Anish's wedding, depending on Pradeep's availability.

I drifted into my thoughts, reflecting on how much had changed and yet how precious these moments remained. Suddenly, Anitta's mother-in-law drew everyone's attention with a radiant smile, announcing the news of Anitta's pregnancy. "Surprise" didn't even begin to capture it—my heart swelled with joy. My little sister was going to be a mom!

Looking around, I saw the happiness lighting up everyone's faces. Mom and Papa's eyes glistened with emotion, a mixture of joy and pride. The air was charged with excitement, all of us already imagining the beautiful addition who would soon join our family.

In the midst of the joy, Anish didn't miss the chance to tease me, nudging my arm playfully. "When are you going to give us happy news? Look, she's younger than you, got married after you, and she's already brought us a progress report first."

I shot back with a smile, "Even though I'm the eldest, you two always seem to make progress in everything before me. Your impatience forces me to rush through things!"

Though I laughed, his comment stirred something deeper within me, pulling me into an unexpected swirl of questions I hadn't fully faced before.

The joyful energy filled the house as Mom headed to the kitchen, determined to prepare some of Anitta's favorite dishes. I joined her, slipping into the familiar rhythm of washing and chopping while we exchanged a few words here and there. Anitta's mother-in-law soon joined us too, and between small talk and laughter, we moved quickly through the preparations. When most of it was set, I left them in the kitchen, giving them a moment to enjoy their own conversation.

Wandering back into the living room, I noticed my father sitting quietly in the corner, a thoughtful expression on his face. I walked over, sat beside him on the floor, and gently rested my head on his lap. He seemed surprised at first but quickly relaxed, beginning to pat my head in that familiar, comforting way. For a while, we simply sat there in silence, his steady touch speaking louder than words.