Here After!

29. Curiosity and Comfort

Giri

As I leaned against the wall, watching Anu and Anish exchange glances, I couldn't help but wonder what was on their minds. Anu had quickly brushed off my question, but I could tell there was more beneath the surface.

Anish left with a quick smile and a pat on my shoulder, leaving Anu and me alone. I moved closer, sitting beside her and gently taking her hand. "What was that all about?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light.

She smiled, but her eyes held a trace of something deeper—something she was still holding back. I decided not to push, just sat there in quiet support, waiting for her to speak if she felt ready.

Anu's smile softened as she glanced down at our intertwined hands. "It was just...random stuff. Anish and his endless questions," she said with a light laugh, though I could still sense something lingering beneath the surface.

I squeezed her hand gently. "You don't have to explain if you're not ready, Anu. I'm here whenever you want to talk."

She leaned her head on my shoulder, exhaling softly. "Thank you, Giri. It's not something serious—just the usual family hopes and expectations. They have so many dreams for each of us, you know?"

I nodded, understanding how family can sometimes have an unspoken timeline. "Yeah, sometimes it feels like there's always a rush to the next chapter in life," I said. "But I think you're right to take your time. Enjoy things as they are now."

She looked up at me, her eyes brighter. "Exactly. It's like everyone around us is looking forward, and sometimes, it's nice to just be here, now."

We sat there in silence for a few more minutes, just taking in the calmness of the moment. Eventually, Anu stirred, brushing her fingers across my hand. "Let's go join everyone; they'll start wondering what we're up to."

I smiled, giving her one last reassuring squeeze before standing. "Lead the way."

And with that, we rejoined the rest of the family for lunch—just enjoying the present.

After lunch, everyone settled in for a quick nap, planning to visit the temple in the evening and go out for dinner afterward. I waited for Anu in her room, and after a few minutes, she joined me. She looked exhausted from her lack of sleep, so I opened my arms, inviting her to lie down. With a grateful smile, she lay beside me, and I gently patted her head, helping her drift off to sleep.

Noticing her shifting restlessly, I gently asked, "What's on your mind, Anu? Something seems to be keeping you from resting."

She hesitated for a moment, her gaze drifting to the ceiling. Then, finally, she sighed and said, "It's nothing, really... Just thoughts swirling around." I stroked her hair gently, waiting in silence, knowing she'd open up if she wanted to.

After a pause, she spoke softly, "It's about everything that was said today—about life, family, and moving forward. I just keep wondering if I'm balancing everything well. And until now, we've never talked about having a baby. I really don't know what your thoughts are on bringing a new life into our world. Today made me realize this, and it's making me feel like I'm not worthy of being your partner, Giri."

I turned to face her, concern etched across my features. "Anu, you are more than worthy. This isn't just about having a baby; it's about building a life together, and we have time. There's no rush, and there's no pressure."

"But it feels like everyone expects it," she replied, her voice trembling slightly. "I don't want to let you down."

"You could never let me down," I reassured her, wrapping my arms around her tightly. "What matters is that we're on this journey together. We'll figure it out when the time comes. Right now, I just want you to feel secure and loved."

"And about having a baby, our princess will join us when the time is right. God has His plans; let Him decide everything," I said softly. "Anu, everything will happen when it's meant to happen. So don't overthink it right now. Just sleep for a while. If you don't, well, I know how to make you sleep," I added playfully, hoping to lighten the mood.

She let out a soft laugh, her tension easing just a bit. "Oh really? And how would you do that?" she asked, raising an eyebrow with a teasing glint in her eyes.

I grinned, leaning closer. "Well, let's just say I have a few tricks up my sleeve," I said, my voice dropping to a whisper. "Like cuddling you until you can't keep your eyes open anymore."

With that, I pulled her closer, wrapping my arms around her and resting my chin on the top of her head. The warmth of her body against mine felt comforting, and I could sense her finally beginning to relax. "Just breathe and let the day go," I murmured, feeling her body slowly respond to the calm I tried to create.

She gave a small smile, relaxing into my arms, and slowly, her breathing softened as she drifted into a peaceful sleep.