FORTY SEVEN: NEED TO REFUSE

[SHAIRA's POINT OF VIEW]

I woke up to the scandalous ring of my phone placed above the bedside table. I lazily reached for my phone to see who was calling early in the morning. My eyes turned wide as I saw my mom's caller ID. So, I cleared my throat before hitting the answer button.

I tried to sound cheerful; as much as possible when I uttered, "Good morning, mom."

"I heard they sent you to the hospital yesterday. What happened, my dear?" says mom in a calm manner, yet the sound of her worried heart is still visible.

"Nothing much... just a problem with my pregnancy, but rest assured, I'm fine now," I replied.

"You should be careful, my dear. Anyway, I dialed because your dad and I decided to visit your residence. We'll probably get there by afternoon or evening."

I can't even sigh, or else they'll be worried again. I'm afraid they might notice Jhotam and I are walking on the rocky path of our marriage.