"Ehsaas"~ A Story Of Falling In Love

CHAPTER :- 17

It was finally the day of Komal Ji's arrival. The sun was just beginning to set when Diya arrived at the train station to pick up Komal ji. She stepped out of her car, a graceful figure in a simple yet elegant pale pink salwar kameez. The soft fabric flowed gently as she moved through the crowd, her calm demeanor a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle around her. At the station, Diya eagerly awaited her mother-in-law, her heart brimming with excitement.

" Ma, over here!" Diya called out with a radiant smile, waving as Komal ji stepped off the train.

Komal ji's face lit up when she saw Diya. "Diya beta!" she exclaimed, opening her arms wide.

Diya rushed to her, embracing her tightly. "It feels so good to have you back, Ma. We've all missed you so much."

As they drove back home, the conversation flowed easily. At the house, Ravi ji and Ranjana ji stood at the door to welcome her. Ranjana ji stepped forward, her hands folded in greeting.

"Komal ji, it’s so wonderful to see you again," she said warmly.

"The pleasure is all mine," Komal ji replied, her eyes crinkling with joy. "This house feels like my second home."

Agni, who had just arrived from work, walked in and immediately spotted his mother. "Ma!" he exclaimed, crossing the room in a few long strides to embrace her.

"My son," Komal ji said, her voice thick with emotion as she hugged him. "It feels like forever since I last saw you."

As the golden hues of the afternoon sun bathed the house, the warmth of family love lingered in every corner. The sound of laughter echoed through the halls as everyone relished Komal ji's presence after so long. The lunch table was alive with conversation, stories, and the clinking of plates. Ravi ji and Ranjana ji sat on either side of Komal ji, asking her about her journey, her health, and her plans. Agni, seated next to his mother, seemed utterly at ease, the rare smile on his face speaking volumes.

Diya, ever the attentive hostess, moved gracefully around the table, serving dishes and ensuring everyone was comfortable. She caught Agni’s eyes now and then, his gaze following her movements with quiet admiration.

"Diya, sit down, beta," Komal ji finally said with a gentle laugh. "You’ve been up since morning. Let us spoil you for a change."

Diya smiled shyly and took the seat beside Komal ji. "As long as you’re happy and comfortable, Ma, that’s all I need."

The lunch stretched on for hours as they shared stories, teasing one another, and making plans for future gatherings. Finally, as the sun began to dip, casting long shadows, it was time for Komal ji and Agni to leave.

Ranjana ji hugged Komal ji warmly. "Next time, you’ll have to stay longer, Komal ji. It always feels like time slips away too fast when you’re here."

"Yes," Ravi ji added, shaking her hand warmly. "And we’ll have even more stories to share."

"I’ll hold you to that promise," Komal ji replied, her smile radiant.

As the car was ready for departure, Diya walked Agni to his room to help him gather his things. Inside, the atmosphere was quieter, more intimate.

"Do you have everything you need?" Diya asked, her voice soft as she checked his bag for the third time.

Agni leaned against the wall, watching her with an amused expression. "Diya, you’ve asked me that twice already. Are you trying to make sure I stay or that I leave properly prepared?"

Diya paused and turned to look at him, her lips curving into a small smile. "Maybe both," she admitted, her tone light but her eyes betraying the heaviness she felt.