CHAPTER VI: THE CHALLENGES OF ADOPTION

Kris gazed out the window, a sense of longing tugging at his heart. His thoughts drifted to the idea of having a child, a little one who would call him "Daddy" and fill their home with laughter. It had been a dream shared by Kris and his husband, Singh, for as long as they could remember.

Yet, as they delved into the world of adoption, they discovered that their path to parenthood would be far from easy. Kris had spent countless hours researching the process, reading stories, and filling out endless paperwork. He had attended seminars, met with adoption agencies, and even undergone several interviews to prove their suitability as parents.

As Kris mulled over the intricacies of the adoption process, his mind wandered to Singh, who was currently engrossed in running his father's company. Singh had inherited the business a few years ago after his father's untimely passing, and it had become his sole focus ever since. The weight of the responsibilities on his shoulders often left Singh with little time to contribute to the adoption journey.

Kris sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and understanding. He knew that Singh was working tirelessly to build a secure future for them, one in which their child would never have to worry about anything. Kris admired Singh's dedication, but he couldn't help feeling a pang of loneliness on this path they had embarked on together.

That evening, as Kris and Singh sat down for dinner, Kris mustered the courage to broach the subject that had been occupying his mind. He glanced at Singh, his eyes reflecting both vulnerability and determination.

"Singh," Kris began softly, "I know how hard you're working on the company, and I appreciate it. But I can't help feeling a little overwhelmed by the adoption process on my own. I need you by my side, supporting me through this journey."

Singh looked up from his plate, his expression a mix of surprise and remorse. He reached across the table, gently taking Kris's hand in his.

"I'm sorry, Kris," Singh said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I didn't realize how much this was affecting you. I want nothing more than to be there for you, for us, every step of the way. Let's find a balance between my responsibilities and our dream of becoming parents."

Kris's heart swelled with hope as he saw the sincerity in Singh's eyes. He knew that this conversation was just the beginning, but it was a crucial step in strengthening their bond and working together to overcome the challenges they faced.

Over the following weeks, Kris and Singh began to navigate the adoption process as a united front. They set aside dedicated time each week to research agencies, attend meetings, and complete the necessary paperwork. Singh, recognizing the importance of being present for Kris, delegated some of his responsibilities at work and made a conscious effort to be more involved.

As Kris and Singh supported one another through the ups and downs of the adoption journey, they discovered a renewed sense of purpose and love in their relationship. Their commitment to each other and their dream of starting a family grew stronger, giving them the strength to face whatever obstacles lay ahead.

Little did they know that their path to parenthood would soon take an unexpected turn, bringing them closer than ever before.