Chapter 19 : fear of height

Chapter 19 

Despite their mother's efforts, their father had shown little concern for their well-being, focusing solely on his parents' needs. It was Mrs. Sharma who had shouldered the responsibility of raising their children, imparting values of resilience and strength.

As Mr. Kim observed the smiles on Riya's and Miya's faces, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Despite the hardships they had endured, they had emerged stronger and more determined than ever. And as they embarked on this new chapter of their lives, he vowed to do everything in his power to support and protect his newfound family.

As the announcement echoed through the cabin, signaling the imminent departure of the plane, everyone hurried to find their seats. Amidst the commotion, Riya and Miya found themselves in a mild sibling squabble over seating arrangements.

"Miya, go sit somewhere else. I want to sit beside Mom," Riya insisted, her tone tinged with urgency.

"Why? I got here first," Miya protested, unwilling to yield.

"It doesn't matter. Please, just go somewhere else," Riya urged, her voice strained.

"Mom, Riya always gets her way. Why can't I sit with you for once?" Miya appealed to their mother.

"It's okay, Miya. Let Riya sit with me this time. You can find another seat," Mrs. Sharma intervened, trying to diffuse the tension.

"But I also want to sit with mom, " Miya said , her frustration evident.

"No, but I feel much better hugging Mom. You can go and watch your favorite TV show. There's Wi-Fi available now. Go," Riya insisted, gently nudging Miya towards another seat.

Riya then embraced her mother's hand tightly, seeking comfort and reassurance. "Mom, I'm really nervous," she admitted, her voice trembling.

Observing Riya's distress, Mr. Kim spoke up, concern evident in his tone. "Riya, are you afraid of heights?" he inquired, trying to understand her anxiety.

"She's not just afraid, she freaks out after seeing heights. Remember that time we went on a roller coaster? She screamed so loud we had to stop the ride," Miya chimed in, revealing Riya's deep-seated fear.

Riya shot Miya a glare, her irritation palpable. "Do you have to tell everyone?!" she exclaimed, feeling exposed.

Miya shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, it's true," she stated matter-of-factly.

"And should I tell everyone about your fear of the dark? Or how you freaked out when the lights went out?" Riya countered, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

As the banter continued, the cabin filled with laughter, easing the tension and reminding them that, despite their differences, they were a family bound by love and laughter.