Just Another Mother

Chapter-5

Meera: "I will be their parent till they turn 18."

Vivek: "What kind of bullshit is this, Meera? Are you even serious? Did you know about this? Have they asked you for your consent?"

Meera: "No. I had no idea. They never asked me. But they also do not have anyone else, Vivek. They were orphans, and I am the only person who is close to the kids. So they might have just randomly given my name. Who will think that these kinds of situations will happen someday?"

Vivek: "So? Are you planning to take responsibility? See Meera, do not even think about it. Think practically. How can we do it? First of all, we are not Americans. We have different cultures. How will you raise them as Americans? Do you think our families would accept it? Do you think our society would accept it? All of these will never happen, and you know that, Meera. You know we cannot take this responsibility."

He shouted at me.

Meera: " Then what? Do you expect me to throw these kids in some orphanage and live my happily ever after with you and our kids? Do you think I would be able to live like that? I can not Vivek. I love them just like my own kids. Their parents entrusted me with their lives, and I would do anything to ensure that they have a safe and secure life."

Vivek: "See, Meera. I understand your concerns, and I am not a heartless person like you are portraying. I am just being practical and stating the facts. Do you think our families will accept these kids? For them, adoption is like a last resort when we cannot have our baby, and here you are asking them to accept five kids even before our wedding as their grandkids and that too, kids from a completely different race!!!! Do you think that is ever going to happen? For God's sake Meera!!!! We did not even start our life. How will we bring them up in American culture? Just think before being emotional. I am just asking you to think of other practical solutions. Don't you think they would have a better life with an American family? Don't they have any other friends who can take care of these kids?"

Meera: "I am sorry, Vivek. I know you are not heartless.. it is just that... I want them to have a happy life. I understand what you are saying. I agree all those are true. It's just.. I'm exhausted Vivek. I can't think properly. I will talk with Neena and Vishal and check for other possibilities too. I want what is best for them."

Vivek: "It's ok, darling. I understand... and I wish I could have been there to support you. I'm sorry for shouting at you... just relax my dear...take rest. We will think of a solution. I will inform both of our parents and will try to postpone the date. Don't stress yourself too much. I know this is difficult for you. But, you have to be sane to handle things..for the kids, for me, for our family, take care of yourself, dear."

Meera: "mm... I will, dear. I will talk to you later. Good night darling."

Vivek: "Goodnight, sweetheart. Love you."

Meera: "Love you too."

I went back to the kids' room to have some sleep. The kids were sleeping peacefully. I'm thankful to the hospital staff for admitting them to the same room. How will I tell them about their parents tomorrow? How will they react to it? With all these worries, I slowly drifted to sleep on the couch.