Time flew by, and today my family would be heading back home. As I packed the items Aunt Aruna had bought during our last shopping trip, she approached me and asked, “What are you doing?” Confused, I replied, “I’m packing the things you bought.” Aunt Aruna facepalmed herself and said, “Didn’t you notice what I purchased?” I shook my head, and she continued, “Then open them when you and Ashwin are alone in your bedroom before sleeping.” She left, giving me a mysterious look.
I moved to the kitchen and began preparing food for their journey, packing pooris, potato fry, pickle, and some packaged snacks like namkeens and chocolates for my little brat Yogesh. Ashwin had taken a half day from work to drop my family off at Secunderabad railway station. I bid them farewell, touched their feet out of respect, and gave Yogesh a tight hug.
Aunt Aruna said warmly, “Son, do visit our home. I bet you will like my Maharashtrian food.” Ashwin also touched their feet and replied, “Sure, Aunt. I will come during the Diwali festival.” After they left, I watched from the balcony as they drove away.
The house felt empty. I felt a mix of sadness and relief—sad that they had left but relieved that my aunt was no longer around to nag me. Still, she was far better than those relatives who didn’t take me in after my parents died.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Ashwin came home in the evening. After dinner, we went to our bedroom. Ashwin looked surprised when he saw the shopping bags still there. He asked cautiously, “Why are these bags here?” I repeated Aunt Aruna’s instructions, and Ashwin chuckled, “Maybe your aunt wanted to give us something, so she used our money.” Seeing my serious expression, he quickly added, “I didn’t mean anything negative.” His nervousness made me laugh uncontrollably. Ashwin playfully smacked my left hand and said, “Let’s obey your dear aunt and see what’s inside.”
We began unwrapping the parcels. In one, there was a chiffon saree and a readymade blouse in red and black. Ashwin smiled, “Looks like your aunt likes movie heroines.” I shrugged and unwrapped another box, which contained scented candles. “Okay, looks like Aunt is too free now that I’ve left the house,” I remarked. Then I saw Ashwin holding a lace bra and panties. Feeling embarrassed, I unwrapped the last bundle, which contained small baby dolls, one girl and one boy.
Ashwin had already put aside the lingerie and came near me with a mischievous smile. I felt a flutter of happiness inside. Ashwin said, “I think we should follow Aunt’s will,” and without warning, he started tickling me. I couldn’t control my laughter, and when he kissed my feet, I worried I might accidentally kick him. I tried to pull my legs away, but Ashwin grabbed them and continued tickling. I felt a mix of anger and joy but ultimately loved the playful interaction. Our blissful night continued with laughter and closeness, deepening our bond.