Chapter-45

The next day, Rudraksh and Roohi arrived at school together, the campus buzzing with excitement and adorned with colorful decorations for Mother’s Day. Balloons and handmade crafts lined the hallways, and the atmosphere was filled with the chatter of children and the smell of fresh flowers.

As they walked through the school entrance, they spotted Abhay, Aarav, Akshat, and Michael. Abhay was deep in conversation, while Aarav and Michael stood nearby, observing the festive setup with a mixture of emotions.

“Papa, look at all the decorations!” Roohi exclaimed, tugging at Rudraksh’s hand. Her earlier sadness had been replaced by a mix of anticipation and nervousness.

Rudraksh smiled, squeezing her hand. “It looks wonderful, doesn’t it?”

As they approached the group, Akshat greeted them with a warm smile. “Hey, Rudraksh. How’s Roohi this morning?”

“Much better, thanks,” Rudraksh replied, his gaze shifting to Michael, who looked a bit distant despite the festive atmosphere.

Abhay, noticing Michael’s demeanor, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “It’s a tough day for some of us,” he said softly, understanding the challenges faced by both Michael and Aarav. “But we’re here for each other.”

Michael nodded appreciatively at Abhay’s comforting words. Aarav, standing beside him, gave a small, supportive smile.

As the teacher's voice rang out over the intercom, announcing that all parents should head to the main hall for the celebration, the buzz of anticipation grew louder. Rudraksh and the other parents made their way towards the hall, where the stage was set for the day’s events.

The main hall was beautifully decorated, with handmade cards and crafts displayed on tables, and the atmosphere was filled with cheerful music and the sound of children chatting excitedly. Rudraksh, Abhay, and Akshat found seats in the front row, ready to support their children. Aarav and Michael, who hadn’t taken part in the Mother’s Day activities, were seated alongside them, each reflecting their own mix of emotions.

As the parents settled in, the children began to gather in their seats, their faces lit up with excitement and a touch of nervousness. Roohi glanced back at her father, her eyes bright, and gave him a thumbs-up.

Rudraksh gave her an encouraging smile and a small wave, feeling a mix of pride and emotion as he watched her prepare for the event.

As the event continued, the children’s performances drew warm applause from the audience. Roohi, with her handmade card in hand, smiled brightly as she presented it, her pride evident. Rudraksh watched her with a proud smile, his heart swelling with affection.

Miss Potter took to the stage with a warm smile, addressing the crowd. “And now, it’s time for the art and craft presentation. Each child has worked so hard on their projects, and we’re excited to showcase their creativity.”

One by one, the children stepped up to the front, proudly presenting their handmade cards and crafts.

Lilly: “This is my card for my mommy. I drew us having a picnic in the garden. Mommy always makes the best sandwiches and loves to tell stories. I’m excited to give her this card because it’s just like our fun days together.”

Sofia: “My card has lots of hearts because I love my mommy very much. I drew us baking cookies together. Mommy and I always have fun in the kitchen, and I wanted to show how special those moments are to me.”

Emily: “My card is full of flowers because my mom loves gardening. I drew a picture of her in our garden with all the flowers she’s grown. She’s always teaching me about plants and how to take care of them.”

Oliver: “I made a card with a superhero on it because my mom is my superhero. She works at the office and also helps me with my homework even makes my favourite food when I’m sad. I drew us flying in the sky together because she makes me feel like I can do anything.”

Hannah: “I drew a picture of me and my mom playing the piano. She loves music, and we have so much fun singing and playing together. I wanted to make a card that showed how much I love our music time.”

Roohi stood proudly at the front, holding her card up for everyone to see. “I made this card for my mummy, Roshni. I drew pictures of us at the park and having ice cream, which is my favorite. Even though she’s not here with me, I know she’s always in my heart, as Papa says. He also says she’s always watching me from God’s house.”

Rudraksh, watching from the audience, smiled warmly at her. Overcome with emotion, he blew her a loving kiss, which Roohi caught with a radiant smile. Aarav looked at his father with a soft smile, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and understanding.

Akshat noticed Michael, his expression a mix of sadness and discomfort. He reached out and grabbed Michael's hand, offering a reassuring squeeze. Michael looked up, his eyes meeting Akshat’s. Though he didn’t say anything, a small, grateful smile appeared on his face, showing his appreciation for the support.

The audience was moved by Roohi’s heartfelt message, and the room was filled with a deep sense of warmth and admiration. Each child shared their unique creations and personal stories, making the celebration a touching tribute to their mothers. The day concluded with a shared appreciation for the children’s creativity and the enduring love they expressed through their art and words.