CHAPTER 48
VIKRAM
I'm getting romantic with Maahi in the kitchen when someone coughs to get our attention. It’s Daadi. She's back home. Maahi quickly puts some distance between us.
Daadi looks surprised by the variety of food we've prepared.
“Why didn’t you go to the boutique, Maahi? And why so much food? Are we expecting guests for lunch?”
Maahi turns to me, and we both smile, confusing Daadi even more.
“Surprise,” I say.
“Yes, it’s a surprise,” Maahi adds. “Come on, you need to freshen up while we serve lunch. Go, go, go!”
She leads Daadi to her room while I call Dad to check if he and Mom are awake. When Daadi comes out a few minutes later and sees Dad and Mom in the dining room, her eyes light up with joy.
“Vanraj? Meera? When did you come here?” she exclaims, stopping in her tracks.
Dad reaches her first while Mom stays back.
“This morning,” Dad replies, giving her a hug.
I've rarely seen Dad hug Daadi, and watching them now is so soothing. But between him and me, I hug my mother better than he does his. I want Dad to surpass me in this regard. Tears roll down Daadi’s cheeks as she hugs her son and pats his back.
“This is so nice. The family is back together.”
Dad pulls away and looks at her.
“I mean, for some time at least,” Daadi adds. She knows Mom and Dad can’t stay here forever.
“The food is getting cold,” Mom interrupts.
Dad helps Daadi to the table, and we all sit down.