Unbinding Tradition

63. Silent struggle 😔

Please vote and comment a lot. 🙏

The sun hung high in the sky as Jungkook and Tae rode towards the Kim Haveli on Jungkook’s motorbike. Tae, dressed in a simple yet elegant lehenga, clung to Jungkook’s back, her hands lightly resting on his shoulders.

She had been insisting on visiting her family, especially Jiminee, and after much persuasion, Jungkook had finally agreed.

As they neared the gates of the haveli, the cheerful giggles of a child reached their ears, immediately bringing smiles to both their faces. The high-pitched voice of little Jiminee echoed through the courtyard as she repeatedly called out, “Nana-sa, Nana-sa!”

Jungkook brought the bike to a stop near the gates, cutting the engine. The couple got down and began walking inside, their steps light and eager. The moment they entered, their eyes caught sight of the playful scene unfolding before them—Mr. Kim chasing a giggling Jiminee, who was clutching his spectacles and running circles around a large pillar.

Mr. Kim was the first to spot the couple. His face lit up in a wide smile as he stopped mid-chase.

Mr Kim- Lado! (he called out fondly, waving at his daughter) Jamai-sa! What a pleasant surprise!

Jiminee stopped in her tracks at the mention of Tae and Jungkook. She turned her head and, upon seeing them, her eyes sparkled with excitement. Dropping the spectacles, she ran towards them with all the energy her little legs could muster, yelling,

Jm- Kookie! Mami-sa!

Jungkook bent down and scooped her up effortlessly, engulfing her in a warm hug. He spun her around once before planting a gentle kiss on her cheek.

Jk- And who’s this little troublemaker, huh? (he teased, tickling her sides and making her burst into laughter)

Tae reached out to caress Jiminee’s rosy cheeks.

Tae- Looks like Jiminee has become so naughty these days! (she said in mock sternness) Nana-sa is spoiling you, isn’t he?

Mr. Kim chuckled heartily at her words.

Mr Kim- Lado, if I won’t spoil my granddaughter, then will I spoil you instead or what? (he teased, earning a playful huff from Tae)

Mrs. Kim emerged from the kitchen, her hands dusted with flour. She greeted the couple warmly, her smile full of affection.

Mrs Kim- Come, come inside. You both must be tired from the journey. (she said, gesturing towards the living area)

They all settled in the spacious living room, where Jiminee made herself comfortable on Jungkook’s lap. She began chattering away, her tiny hands gesturing animatedly as she told Jungkook all about her recent adventures. She spoke of the new friends she had made, the places she had visited, and even the little songs she had learned.

Jungkook listened intently, his eyes crinkling with genuine joy as he laughed at her innocent stories. Tae watched the two of them, her heart swelling with happiness. She knew Jungkook had made the right decision by leaving Jiminee with her parents.

After a while, Tae gently lifted Jiminee off Jungkook’s lap.

Tae- Come with me, Jiminee. (she said, taking her hand)

Tae led Jiminee to the kitchen, where she began preparing an aarti thali. She carefully placed a rakhi in it, alongside some rice, vermillion, and a small diya. Turning to her mother, she said,

Tae- Maa, please add a piece of ghewar to the thali.

Mrs. Kim gave her a puzzled look.

Mrs Kim- For whom are you preparing this thali, Lado? (she asked curiously)