Rekha looked at the clock on the office wall eagerly. After what seemed like an eternity, the clock finally struck five. She couldn’t wait to get home. The very thought of Rahul made her feel excited like a small child, filling her up with warmth; at the same time tying her up in knots. Alternating bouts of eager anticipation and anxiety swirled within her, throwing her into a sea of indescribable madness.

*****

It has now been almost a year since Rahul entered her life. He had crept into her life rather inconspicuously. She had been immune to his presence in the beginning, but now he had come to occupy every inch of her thought, mind and being. She couldn’t understand her feelings for him at first. Was it love? Was it affection? What was it? Whatever it was, she had gladly accepted it. Her feelings for him only grew by the day and now her whole world revolved around him.

But when would Rahul reciprocate? Did he love her? Would he take cognizance of her? Would he feel the same towards her? He had been oblivious of her presence so far, or so it seemed. When would her prayers be answered? She was eager to know.

*****

Last week, she had almost felt elated. Rahul was by the gate, when she got back home from work. He gave her what seemed like a weak smile. Rekha almost jumped in joy, but felt a stab when Rahul turned around and grinned at his pet dog.

That day, she had felt like a deflated balloon. What did his smile mean? It seemed so empty. There he was, encroaching upon her mind and senses. And all she got in return was a weak smile? Wasn’t she special to him? Did she matter to him at all? What was he trying to say? How she wished she knew!

Every day since then has been one of suspense and anticipation. Would he or would he not? She had been so subsumed by Rahul’s thoughts; she died to know what she meant to him. She was beginning to get frustrated.

*****

She looked at the clock on the office wall eagerly, waiting for it to strike five. The billion dollar question raging in her mind was “Will Rahul smile at me today?” Will today be her lucky day?

*****

The ride back home was long and exhausting. Rahul was by the gate as usual, but he hardly took notice of her. Stung by his indifference, tears welled up in her eyes quickly. All the anticipation and excitement quickly evaporated. She felt drained. She quietly went inside to take a wash.

Rekha stood dazed for a second. Suddenly realization dawned on her. That was her Rahul saying she was special to him! Her child had recognized her! His mother! This was the recognition she had been yearning for! Oh, the taste of success, of being recognized. Yes, after all, she meant the world to him too. All her angst and uncertainties vanished in a moment without trace. The initial misgivings and apprehensions-all gone. This was the ultimate reward for her motherhood.  This was bliss. It was Seventh Heaven.

*****