Tangled Beliefs

Chapter-15: When Family Feels Far Away

I am not a puppet for your pride, nor a tool for your trade.

I checked my watch as the cab pulled up in front of the imposing gates of the Murthy Mansion—8:45 PM. I was on time, but my heart sank as I stared at the familiar structure bathed in soft golden lights.

The guard opened the gate without question, and I stepped out, smoothing my outfit and taking a deep breath to prepare myself. I didn’t know why Dad had summoned me here tonight, but whatever it was, I doubted it would be pleasant.

As I walked up the driveway, the front door opened, and before I could even step inside, I heard the sweetest, most innocent voice in the world scream, "Bua!"

Before I knew it, a tiny whirlwind came charging at me. I laughed despite myself, bending down just in time to catch Ansh as he flung himself into my arms.

“Ansh!” I exclaimed, picking him up and spinning him around. His giggles were like music, instantly brightening my mood. I peppered his chubby cheeks with kisses, and he squealed in delight, clutching my shoulders.

“Bua missed you so much!” I said, holding him close.

“Ansh missed you too, Bua!” he replied in his toddler way, his words slightly broken but full of emotion.
We were both giggling like idiots when a familiar voice interrupted us.

“Wow, I see how it is. Forget your dear brother the moment you see Ansh,” Rudraksh Bhai said, crossing his arms and mock-pouting as he stood a few feet away.

I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Oh, stop being jealous,” I teased, handing Ansh to him briefly before stepping forward to hug him. “Good to see you, Bhai,” I added, squeezing his shoulder.

“You too, Nandu,” he replied, a warm smile replacing his fake irritation.

From the side, Prisha Bhabhi chimed in, “Rudra, are you seriously competing with your own son for attention? Shame on you!” She teased him mercilessly, earning a glare from her husband and a giggle from me.

“Come on, Prisha,” he said, shaking his head. “You know she ignores me every time this kid is around.”

I laughed and stuck my tongue out at him. “You’re just mad because he’s cuter than you.”

Before Bhai could retort, Mom’s soft voice cut through. “Nandini, beta.” I turned to see my mother standing near the staircase, her eyes scanning me with a mixture of warmth and hesitation.

“How are you? Are you tired from work?” she asked, her tone gentle but careful as if she didn’t want to provoke me.

I rolled my eyes instinctively, the walls around my heart rising. “I’m fine, as usual. You don’t need to pretend to care.”

Her face fell slightly, but she recovered quickly, nodding silently as if she had expected this reaction. She stepped back, and I turned away, focusing on Ansh again to avoid any further awkwardness.

We moved to the dining room, where the table was already set. Dad entered a few minutes later, his expression as stoic as ever. He glanced at me briefly but said nothing beyond, “Let’s eat.”

Dinner was a silent affair, save for Ansh, who chattered endlessly to me about his day at school, his favorite cartoon, and some imaginary adventures he’d created in his mind. I listened intently, nodding and laughing at all the right moments, thankful for his innocence amid the tension.

Bhai and Bhabhi exchanged knowing looks throughout, probably wondering why Dad had called me here. Mom, as usual, looked torn between wanting to speak and staying quiet.