The Guests

He woke up early this morning. The first thing he enquired was, “Are they coming, today Mom”? I did not want to promise anything as I knew he would be livid if they didn’t arrive today. “Am not very sure about it Aadi. You please get ready for school now”, I replied. “Can I miss school today? I want to be the first one to see them”, he pleaded. “I won't let you miss school today as you have a test”, I said sternly. Aadi frowned and went about his morning ablutions. He quickly had his breakfast and was right in time for his school bus which halted outside the gate. He looked at me sadly as he boarded the bus.

“Did you ask them what time will they depart from Mumbai”? I asked Pranav while shaking him. “Why don’t you ask them?” he replied without even attempting to open his eyes.

I was thrilled just like Aadi. We had been planning this for quite a while now. Finally, they were arriving today. I tried to call them but no one answered. 

Around four p.m the doorbell rang. It was Aadi. “Mom, have they arrived”? he asked eagerly. Before I could answer, he dropped his bag to the ground and ran inside to investigate. He was utterly disappointed.

Meanwhile, Aadi had some snacks and went down to play football and I got busy with dinner preparations. The doorbell rang and it was Aadi once again. “You freshen up and sit down to finish your homework”, I instructed.

I was getting impatient now. The third time the doorbell rang, it was Pranav. He was carrying a box. He placed it down carefully and opened it. Two little fluffy balls of grey jumped out. They were the cutest little things I had ever set my eyes upon. I was elated. I wanted to squeal with joy but stopped myself as we wanted to surprise Aadi. He was still taking a shower. We took the kittens and placed them right outside his bathroom.

When he stepped out, he squealed with delight. “Thanks a ton”, he cried with joy as he gently lifted the kittens one by one. We could see the happiness on his face which was PRICELESS.

“What will you name them”? I asked with a smile.

“NEMO and MAE”, came the prompt reply.