Remorse

Juli found herself sitting at the dining table, feeling a heavy weight of worry and anxiety. Her mind was racing, causing her to lose her appetite and feel a numbness in her hands and feet. The constant calls and messages she was receiving were adding to her distress. Despite feeling overwhelmed, she tried to focus on eating the pudding that was laid out for breakfast. At that moment, she couldn't help but wonder if her parents were upset with her.

When she heard some noise from the kitchen, she shouted out loud, "Muma, where are you?"

She received no response. She shouted again, "Papa, where are you?"

She stood in disbelief as the silence filled the air. Sundays were usually bustling with the sounds of shopping, cheerful chatter, and laughter. But just a few days ago, the house had been alive with excitement. It was her birthday, and her father, George, had thrown her a surprise party at home. He had invited all his colleagues and friends, making sure Juli's closest friends were the center of attention. George had spared no effort in ensuring it was a memorable event. Stella showcased her exceptional culinary skills by preparing a feast for everyone. Laughter and joy filled the air, turning the gathering into a truly special celebration as Juli marked her twentieth birthday. The house was beautifully decorated, thanks to the work of talented specialists. Even Jasmine, Juli's elder sister, had joined in the festivities with her own family.

On that particular day, Mr. George received an unexpected and exciting proposal from the esteemed magistrate of his town for the hand of his daughter, Juli. The magistrate happened to be George's childhood friend, and the prospect of entrusting his daughter to such a well-respected family brought him immense joy. Similarly, Stella, George's wife, was genuinely pleased with the match. Juli, on the other hand, viewed the young man as nothing more than a brother figure. Their relationship had always been platonic, as they had grown up together, sharing their childhood, education, and home due to their parents' close friendship.

Her parents got angry when she first opened up about Jude. She tried to convince them with all her might, but she was unsuccessful at every attempt. They regarded him as a spoiled brat no matter how she tried to convince them. They didn't like his mannerisms when he was called upon for a short introduction at a nearby restaurant. They were against a business family.

Juli ate her pudding and entered the kitchen. Stella was mopping the floor.

Juli caught her from behind, "Mummy, you are still angry with me?"

Stella dropped the mop and started rinsing the dishes.

Her lips cracked to reveal a sarcastic smile, continuing with her work, "Who am I to be angry at you? You are a big girl now. Our decision never matters to you."

Juli spoke to erase the confusion, "O mummy, I will. Please don't worry. I will keep my word. Yesterday, Jude rang up several times, but I didn't pick up his calls. I am attempting to forget him forever. I will marry you wherever you want."

Stella appeared indifferent, "You told me you had broken ties with him. How dare he be supposed to call you for no reason?"

Juli prepared to utter, "Yes mummy you heard it right. I have blocked his number for his stubbornness. Now I will not trouble you all. Cool down, mummy. Just cool."

Stella raised her eyebrows, sensing that something big was about to happen soon. Then she continued with her kitchen chores, trying to ignore the tension in the air. Juli grabbed some chocolates from the refrigerator and began munching on them, her mind preoccupied with what was to come. She wandered through the house, searching for her father, a sense of unease creeping in as he remained out of sight.

Finally, she mustered enough courage to call him gently, "Papa, papa, where are you?"

There was no response from anywhere. She thought to herself to manage her anxiety, "Today is a Sunday. Papa might be in the washroom or studying."

She made her way to the washroom and noticed that the door was slightly open, indicating that he wasn't there. Juli sat quietly, hesitant to ask her mother for help as she was already in a bad mood. Jerry came over to keep her company. She absentmindedly stroked her furry pet's hair, lost in thought. Suddenly, she was startled by the weight of her father's hand patting her back. She stood up to greet him, and George hugged her tightly.

He took her hand and declared "Daughter, you are everything to me. I will abide by your decision if you select the right man. Alas! I was a fool in making my daughter's life secure throughout my life. In doing so, I forgot that you also have a choice. I know you will never forgive me for this, but I give you the liberty to browse over your decision umpteen times so that you will not have to feel sorry for your deed later on. We are no one to entrust our decisions to you. I hereby leave you free to take the stand."

Juli was feeling quite upset. She had never seen her father so serious before. Even though she believed he was speaking out of anger, his wise words still managed to soften her heart. She also wasn't certain if her mother had spoken to him.

She cleared her throat to speak, "Papa, I will always remain your little girl whom you dropped to school on your scooter. Although I have grown in age, I am not fully grown and able to make my own decisions. I have always obeyed your rules and I will never go against you. I have broken all ties with Jude, and I am ready to marry whomever you want. Please acknowledge my sincerity, papa. Please don't neglect me."

George could feel the sentiments of his daughter. He stayed quiet as usual.

Stella rushed from her kitchen, "Oh! You are back very soon."

"Yes, my dear. I am back. What's special about today," he inquired.

"Nothing like such. This mopping and cleaning will take a few more hours. Till then, you can read the daily news."

Juli asked, "May I help you, mother?"

"No need. You can carry on with your studies," prompt came a reply that broke her heart into several pieces.