The Sacrifice

Vibhu was gurgling and jumping in her arms happily. He was excited about the glitter and glamour of the airport. Thanks to all his efforts he was born a healthy baby of 3.5 kg.  Standing in front of the glass windows that faced the lined up aeroplanes Shilu was deep in thought 'What if ?'

The time machine was ticked back to 2 yrs ago. The romance of Shilu and Suju had been the talk of the office circle. They were always found together which raised eyebrows of many in the department.  Shilu had been married a few months ago and Suju was a father of a beautiful girl. Shilu had continued to stay in office premises well beyond the tenure of her deputation. Bitterness filled her mouth as she  ruminated the reasons for it.

Another flashback -- She almost felt the moistness of the tears rolling out of Vipul’s eyes on the night of their marriage.  I’m sorry Shilu, I couldn’t loose you, the reason why I hid this information. Tell me was I at fault for the surgery, and the infection that caused my impotency? I loved you from the time I came to know what love was and our parents had always endorsed it. I haven't shared this information with no one other than you .

Days and weeks had passed away until it was time for Shilu to resume her duty in a city away from Vipul. They had received hints from the elders that they were expected good news as soon as possible. The newly wed couple only exchanged glances. Vipul came to the airport to see her off. "We need to have a baby,"  he said. Shilu only looked at him in astonishment. I don’t want to go for artificial insemination; I’d prefer an intelligent biological father. Can you do this for our future and my honour without giving away my secret?  

The questions, solutions and the schemes had come out so fast from Vipul, as if he had planned everything. There would be no interference from my side. I would always support you and love you. So...all the best. These had been the parting words at the airport.

Meeting Suju and being around with him was a part of their plan. Suju was the right person with his charms, looks, brains and proven paternity to father their child.  Everything went as planned, Vipul and Shilu met a few times in between.  Shilu left a few months later, and sometime later, announced her pregnancy to a joyful family.

Vibhu was born and the couple felt blessed. Shilu had saved Vipul  from any unpleasantness. The initial days went along fine until the first birthday celebrations when Vipul's behaviour got strange. She found his friend too close to be a “friend”. The rift between them widened, and she understood now.

"We can't live together anymore," he announced to Shilu, "I feel belittled every time I see your son. The “your” hurt her like an arrow. "I am leaving to US and so is the guy you had met on Vibhu’s birthday. I have transferred the properties on your name to take care of your son. Bye... You will soon receive legal papers."

Shilu stood dumbfounded. She had confided in her mother regarding Vipul’s impotency, but the scheme had been kept a secret. Her mom thought God had been great and hence the result.  She stood alone for a very long time in front of the mirror organizing her thoughts. Her job had been arranged and she was leaving to the city where Suju lived. What if...?