Love: From Retribution to Redemption

Chapter 51

Sorry for the late update, got hospitalized previous week.

Let's get into the story,

The crisp hillside air brushed against their faces as Shravan wheeled Saakshi forward. Shivu rested snugly in the front carrier, his tiny hands clutching at Shravan’s shirt, bouncing lightly against him.

Saakshi’s lips were pressed into a thin line, still grumpy from the earlier cap-and-shawl struggle. Her fingers fiddled nervously with her sweater, and her eyes narrowed slightly at Shravan.

“See what you made me wear,” she muttered, not really expecting an answer.

Shravan didn’t reply. His expression was calm, firm—like always.

But as they approached the wide-open garden, the huge tree, the sparkling pond, and the patch of vibrant flowers, Saakshi’s frown softened.

A serene smile slowly appeared on her lips as she absorbed the colors, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the hum of villagers gathering flowers for the puja. The monks moved quietly, their presence calm and unhurried.

Even Shravan allowed himself a rare moment to glance around, noting the beauty.

Shivu, however, had no patience for serenity. He wiggled and bounced in the carrier, squealing in excitement:
“Appa..appa! Down! Pway! Pway!”

Shravan’s brow furrowed. “Not yet,” he said firmly, holding him close. “It’s too cold.”

Shivu’s tiny fists banged lightly against his chest. “Amma” he squealed showing hands towards Saakshi, bouncing even harder.

Saakshi’s eyes followed him, and her voice rose in mock reprimand: “Shravan! Don’t be so grumpy! Let him down! Let him enjoy! Don’t be strict!”
Shravan’s gaze met hers, sharp and unwavering. “You’re spoiling him,” he said, his tone low. “Just like you…”
Saakshi shrugged, completely unfazed. A small, teasing smile tugged at her lips. “As if you were obedient ” she replied twisting her lips.

Shivu’s squeals grew louder, his little legs kicking in joy. “Appa kee..keela viru..viru"

With a soft sigh, Shravan finally bent slightly and carefully set Shivu down on the soft grass. Immediately, Shivu clapped his tiny hands, squealed with delight, and waddled toward the flower patch, toddling unsteadily on his little legs.

Villagers nearby paused to admire the cute, exuberant little boy, laughing and hopping from one flower to the next.
Saakshi leaned forward slightly from her wheelchair, her smile wide and eyes sparkling.

Shivu picked a bright flower, holding it carefully in his tiny hands, and toddled back to her. “Amma!” he said, holding it up proudly.

Saakshi bent down, scooped him into her arms, and planted a loud kiss on his cheek. “En thangam” she murmured, laughing softly.

Shravan watched quietly from the side, arms crossed, pretending to be strict, but a small, imperceptible smile tugged at his lips. Even in his grumpy, cautious way, he couldn’t deny the warmth spreading through his chest at the sight of his little family enjoying the moment together.

Saakshi inhaled deeply, the crisp air carrying the faint, natural aroma of herbs and flowers. Her grumpy mood had melted into a serene calm as she watched the world around her—colorful petals, the pond shimmering in the sunlight, and villagers bustling quietly with their small tasks.

Shravan wheeled her slowly, eyes constantly flicking to Shivu, who had wriggled free from the carrier and now sat near an old lady tying flowers into garlands. The little boy mimicked her movements, clumsily twisting the flowers with his tiny fingers. The old lady chuckled softly, pinching his cheek and kissing her fingers in playful approval.