Page 165 of One Hellish Wedlock
“Yes. Don’t worry. I’ll make sure you reach safely.”
She opened the front passenger door for Nani, who muttered something under her breath. Aanya caught none of it and shut the door after ensuring Nani had fastened her seatbelt.
Just as promised, Aanya drove carefully. Nani didn’t say it, but Aanya could tell she was enjoying the ride too.
When they reached home, Radhika greeted Nani at the door. Nani’s tough exterior melted the moment she held Ruhi in her arms. Tears streamed down her face. Aanya left them to their bonding and slipped into the kitchen to help with dinner.
Rishi returned by dinnertime and since it was the weekend, Aanya stayed on with the Negi family.
“Nice dal, Radhika. Do you have Indian cooks here?” Nani asked as she savoured the lentils.
Radhika smiled and glanced at Aanya, who was busy serving the plates.
“Tonight’s cook is your daughter-in-law Aanya,” she said.
Nani looked stunned. Her eyes shifted back to Aanya, who showed no reaction, no pride. She just kept serving.
“Aanya, stop serving and sit with us,” Radhika said.
“I’ll wait until everyone’s done. If Ruhi wakes up, someone should be there to calm her,” Aanya replied.
“She won’t wake,” Rishi interjected. “And if she does, I’ll go.”
“Jeeju, you’ve been out all day. You should eat first. Please,” Aanya insisted gently. Rishi nodded, accepting.
Nani watched all of it closely. Aanya was different now, more grounded. She had learned to cook. She treated the family as her own. Was it all just for show?
When Ruhi started crying, Aanya sprang up and headed straight into the room.
“Radhika, will she manage?” Nani asked.
“Nani,” Radhika smiled, “she handles Ruhi better than me. Even Ruhi knows her touch. She calms down the moment Aanya picks her up.”
Ruhi’s cries faded almost immediately. Radhika turned back to Nani.
“See? I told you.”
Nani looked toward the bedroom where Aanya stood, gently rocking Ruhi in her arms, patting her back to sleep. It was really a change. A surprisingly good one.
Day 168
Husband,
Spoke to Dad. He’s made up his mind. He wants the divorce. I don’t think a phone call will change his decision. I need to meet him face-to-face. Can you find a way to send him here?
Wife
**************
Wife,
I’ll try. Give me some time.
Are you also going to talk to Kyle? Just think about it. I know you two have no real connection, but sometimes, drastic situations like these demand difficult conversations.
Husband
**************
