Seya woke the next morning to sunlight streaming through the window and the serene sight of Hazon already dressed and smiling down at her. A glance at the clock brought a jolt of panic;it was nearly ten. 'The first day, and I've overslept. What will his mother think?' she thought with a sinking feeling.đź’¤
Hurrying to the bathroom, she noticed the mehndi on her hands had deepened to a rich, dark red, a sign of good fortune and a deep love from her new husband. The sight lifted her spirits. She showered quickly, changed into a fresh, elegant salwar kameez, and headed downstairs.
In the kitchen, she found Hazon's mother quietly at work. "Good morning," Seya murmured softly. 🙆
Hazon's mother turned, her face breaking into a warm, genuine smile. "Good morning, my daughter. Did you sleep well?"
"Mom, I'm so sorry I woke up so late," Seya said, her gaze dropping slightly.
"It's perfectly alright, dear," her mother-in-law reassured her, her voice kind. "This is your home now. You rest whenever you need." She then gently took Seya's hand, noticing the vibrant bangles. "And these are so beautiful." đź“żđź“ż
"Oh, it's tradition, Mom," Seya explained. "Brides wear these red and green bangles for three months after the wedding for prosperity and the well-being of their husband."
"Of course," her mother-in-law said, nodding understandingly. She then handed Seya a glass of warm milk. "Here, drink this. I will call you when the food is ready." 🍱
"Please, let me help you cook," Seya insisted.
"No, no, not today," the older woman said, her eyes twinkling. "Today, I am making Halwa for my new daughter. I learned it just for you."
The words settled deep in Seya's heart. Having lost her own mother as a young child, this deliberate, nurturing love was a gift she had never known. Overwhelmed with a quiet joy, she took her milk to a bench in the garden, the morning sun warming her face as a profound sense of belonging finally warmed her soul. đź’ť