Dusk & Destiny?

Sleep still clung to me like a warm blanket, and I craved just one more hour of rest. I turned onto my right side, shifting my left leg upward in search of a comfortable position. As I settled in, I slipped my right hand under the pillow and reached out with my left hand to grab another pillow, seeking the perfect support for my weary head.

But instead of the soft cushion I expected, my hand made contact with something firm and muscular. My eyes fluttered open, and as my vision cleared, I was met with Nayan's serene face. A tremor ran through my body as reality settled in. We were sharing a bed, and I had almost touched him. Thankfully, he was sleeping soundly, oblivious to my momentary panic.

I slowly withdrew my hand, careful not to disturb him. Folding my leg back under the blanket, I sat up straight and joined my palms in a silent prayer. I took a deep breath and began to recite my morning mantras, a habit instilled in me by Papa since childhood. It was a ritual that brought me peace and helped me start the day on a positive note.

As I whispered the familiar words, a sense of calm washed over me. I felt more centered, more prepared to face whatever the day might bring. And yet, as I glanced over at Nayan's sleeping form, I couldn't shake off the unwary feeling that I felt the previous day.

I glanced at the time, and my heart skipped a beat - it was almost 6 am. I had to hurry if I wanted to get ready before the rest of the family began their preparations to leave. As the new bride, it was essential for me to make a good impression.

I rushed to the bathroom, my mind racing with the tasks I needed to complete. When I returned, Nayan was busy putting his phone on charge. As he sensed my presence, he turned toward me, his eyes seeming to hold a message.
I lifted my eyebrows, inviting him to speak, and he finally did. "Wo Mummy aayi thi, she was asking for you," he said, his words brief and to the point.

Before I could respond, he turned and headed toward the washroom, leaving me feeling perplexed. Seriously, had it taken him that long to convey such a simple message? I pushed aside my annoyance, focusing on getting ready as quickly as possible.

With my hair and clothes in order, I draped the dupatta over my head and made my way to the mandir to light the diya. The soft glow of the flame and the gentle scent of incense helped calm my nerves, preparing me for the busy day ahead.

After that I made my way to the kitchen, where I found Maa busily preparing boxes of sweets. Her vibrant smile greeted me, and I couldn't help but feel the warmth in my heart. Despite her age, Maa exuded an infectious energy, always ready to take on the next task.

"Beta, everyone will be leaving in an hour or two," she said, her hands moving deftly as she packed the sweets. "Since you haven't had a chance to cook for the family yet, why don't you prepare something sweet for them before they start on their journey?"

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to make. "Mai Moong dal ka halwa bana lu?" I asked, seeking her approval.
"Of course, beta! Just tell me what you need, and I'll get it for you."

I listed the ingredients I required, and Maa efficiently pulled out each item from the drawers and cupboards, arranging them neatly in front of me.
As I began to prepare the halwa, I thought about complementing it with a steaming cup of tea. "Maa, should I make some tea to go with the halwa?" I asked, seeking her opinion. Maa nodded, her eyes shining with approval. "That would be perfect.

Cooking had never been a passionate hobby of mine, but rather a necessary skill I had acquired growing up in Bihar. It was an unspoken expectation that every girl, regardless of her profession or ambitions, should be well-versed in the art of cooking and household management. Even if she were to become a pilot or the President, the assumption remained that she would still be responsible for managing the kitchen and keeping a tidy home.