LIFE IN LOCKDOWN

A SHORT STORY!

"What do you think of yourself? I'm not your maid," Tanu spoke to her husband Sumer, shouting from the kitchen. Sumer also responded in a loud voice, "You live comfortably at home. What do you know about how much tension there is in the office? You just have to sit all day long."

Tanu retorted, "Yes, you treat me like a queen, hiring numerous servants. But you should know that I'm the one doing all the household work as well as your work. You come home from the office, throw your bags and laptops everywhere, and I'm the one who picks them up. Sometimes I even have to remind you to iron your shirt, and I do it immediately. I also take care of your parents. Is that all you think of me, as a maid?"

Sumer explained, "When I mentioned 'maid,' I was only referring to the fact that some friends are coming over in the evening."

Tanu replied incredulously, "Friends are coming, and that's all you said?"

"Make breakfast for your friends, and if they stay late, then prepare dinner for them as well. I'm not a magician; you can't just assume I'll do all the work," Tanu exclaimed.

Sumer sighed, "There's no need to overreact. I need to head to the office for an important meeting. Let me leave in peace."

Tanu countered, "You're deliberately trying to disturb the atmosphere here and leave for the office peacefully."

Sumer warned, "If you don't stop, I'll lose my patience."

Tanu challenged, "Then what are you waiting for? Go ahead and hit me. You've tried before, haven't you?"

As Tanu began to cry, Sumer left the house without having breakfast. The couple had been arguing for days, creating a tense atmosphere at home. Tanu called her mother to confide in her and expressed that she couldn't continue living with Sumer. Her mother was distraught as she realized the fights had escalated to the point where divorce was being considered. She believed that Tanu's irritability stemmed from her heavy workload.

Sumer, too, felt that his life was deteriorating due to the ongoing conflicts with Tanu. They decided that Tanu should stay with her mother for a few days.

However, the nationwide lockdown due to the pandemic prevented Tanu from leaving. Both of them were awaiting the end of the lockdown. Their communication had ceased, and they were living separate but parallel lives at home. They were unable to go outside.

Tanu's mother advised her over the phone, "You need to handle this situation wisely during the crisis. Stay home and take care of everyone."

In the midst of the lockdown, Tanu and Sumer's routine continued. They realized that without communicating, their lives were becoming empty. Sumer began to understand the effort required to manage the household, and Tanu recognized the stress he faced with his office work. Eventually, they broke their silence.

Apologizing for their recent behavior, Sumer decided to help Tanu with the household chores, and Tanu acknowledged Sumer's work commitments. They decided to work together to maintain their relationship and household.

As they adjusted their routines and shared responsibilities, both Tanu and Sumer found a new understanding. Their bond grew stronger, and they recognized the importance of supporting each other during difficult times.

Overall, the article depicts the journey of a couple facing challenges in their relationship and discovering the value of mutual support and understanding.