Unbinding Tradition

133. Back Where We Belong 💞

🌸 Author's Note Before You Dive In: 🌸

Dear readers,
Before you step into this heartwarming chapter that's so close to my heart, I have a small request. Some of you are so amazing, leaving multiple comments, sharing your thoughts and emotions - I see you and I'm truly grateful. But... some of you have gone quiet lately! 🥺

Don't do this to me yaar! This story is nearing its end, and your words mean everything right now. Let me know how you felt about today's chapter! 💌

So please, after reading... drop plenty of comments or atleast one line. It really encourages me more than you know. 💖

Now go on... read the chapter. I promise it's full of love. 🕊️

Target- 300 comments cuz it's 8k words chapter. 😒

.................................................................

The orange dusk had begun to cast long shadows across the courtyard of the Kim Haveli.

Tae had just returned from school, her shoulders slumped with exhaustion. Her saree clung slightly to her back, damp with the effort of the day, and her face looked pale with fatigue. She eased herself down onto the couch in the living room, tilting her head back and letting her eyes rest for a moment.

Her back ached relentlessly-a dull, dragging pain that had made itself home in her spine ever since she began managing not only her own class but also Sumi's in her absence. Sumi hadn't been attending school for the past two or three days due to illness, and with no replacement available, Tae had taken up the additional responsibility without complaint.

Outside, the sound of hurried footsteps broke the quiet. The front door creaked open and slammed shut as Hyunnie-ever the whirlwind-rushed into the room.

Hyun- Amma, I'm keeping my bag! (he called, his small voice bouncing off the walls)

Tae- Carefully! (she responded without opening her eyes)

Hyun- I am careful. (he muttered as he hurried away again)

In less than a minute, his slippered feet could be heard pounding out the front gate.

Hyun- Rasmalai, I'm coming! You cheated yesterday!

And just like that, the little hurricane disappeared into the evening to meet his friends and his daily banter with the notorious parrot.

Tae opened her eyes and smiled faintly. Children and their endless reservoir of energy.

Mrs. Kim walked in from the courtyard, wiping her hands on her pallu. She carried a glass of cool water and a soft cotton cloth. She saw the fatigue on her daughter's face and immediately came forward.

Mrs Kim- Here, Lado. Drink this. (she said gently, sitting beside her and dabbing the sweat from Tae's forehead) And don't argue-go lie down for a while. I'll come massage your back. You've done too much today.

Tae took the glass and gave a tired chuckle.

Tae- I'm fine, Amma. Really.

Mrs Kim- You always say that. (she scolded lightly, her voice tender but firm) But you're carrying more than just work on your shoulders these days. Believe me, a good oil rub will do wonders.

Before Tae could respond, a knock echoed through the haveli's courtyard. Mrs. Kim stood and walked over to the door.

"Postman," the man called out, holding a weathered envelope in his hand. "For Jeon Taehyung."