Back at Sweet Home
At precisely 3:15 p.m, a merry bicycle bell rang at the gate—the most joyful sound Hridya had ever heard! Her heart jumped with delight. "Brother is here! He is truly here!" she shouted to Grandfather and Grandmother, dashing to open the gate with flying feet.
Murali pedalled his bicycle steadily along the familiar road, his legs tired but his spirit soaring. He felt like a brave knight returning from a grand adventure, eager to share his tales with those he loved most.
He recollected how Hridya's small heart had ached when he waved goodbye last Friday evening! She missed her big brother terribly—she would not see his cheerful smiles for three long days. Tears filled her eyes as she held tightly to his bag. "Please don't go, Brother!" she pleaded, her voice trembling like a leaf in the wind. Mother drew her into a gentle hug and whispered, "Darling, the time will pass quickly, like a bird. Soon, he will return with wonderful stories."
Yet, on Tuesday morning, Hridya sprang from bed as the first light touched the window. Her eyes shone with excitement. "It is holiday time—did you forget?" Mother said with a soft laugh. Hridya shook her head firmly. "No, Mom! Brother is coming home today!" Butterflies danced in her stomach as she dressed in a hurry, ate her breakfast swiftly, and took her place in the front yard like a watchful guard. Father, Mother, Grandfather, and Grandmother smiled warmly. "Be patient, little one," they said. "He will arrive only in the afternoon." But Hridya paid no heed; her mind was filled with dreams of her brother. She stared down the road, her heart beating like a happy drum. She counted each minute, picturing the warm hugs and exciting stories ahead. By eleven o'clock, Mother and Father had to leave for school to help with new admissions. They departed with bright smiles, whispering to each other, "The love between our children is the greatest gift."
Her grandparents had to force her a lot to eat lunch.
At precisely 3:15 p.m, a merry bicycle bell rang at the gate—the most joyful sound Hridya had ever heard! Her heart jumped with delight. "Brother is here! He is truly here!" she shouted to Grandfather and Grandmother, dashing to open the gate with flying feet. Grandfather followed quickly, smiling broadly. From the windowsill, their soft kitten Charu, with her glossy black-and-white fur, saw the commotion. She let out a joyful meow, jumped down gracefully, and raced ahead like a speedy arrow.
Murali leaped from his bike, his face glowing like the morning sun. He knelt down, and Hridya rushed into his arms for the warmest, strongest hug imaginable. She held him close, as if to keep him forever. Happy tears sparkled in her eyes. Hridya kissed his cheeks with big, wet smacks—mwah! Mwah!—and her questions poured out like a rushing stream. "Tell me all about it, Brother! Who joined the camp? What delicious foods did you eat? What exciting games did you play? Did the teachers teach serious lessons, or was it full of laughter and fun?" Her words came so fast that no one else could speak. Charu climbed onto his shoulder, purring softly like a gentle motor, her tail waving happily.
Grandmother chuckled kindly, her eyes moist with happiness at the loving scene. "Allow your brother to enter the house first, my dear princess!" But Murali was thrilled to be home, surrounded by his sister's affection. With a kind smile, he answered every question patiently. He described the camp in vivid detail—the tall trees, the sparkling river, the friends he made, and the games under the stars. Hridya listened with wide eyes, imagining every moment as if she were there.
As the afternoon sun warmed the yard, the family gathered on the veranda for a simple meal. Grandfather brought cool lemonade, and Grandmother served fresh fruits from the garden. Murali told more stories: how they built a campfire and sang songs, how they learned to tie strong knots, and how a friendly peacock visited one evening. Hridya clapped her hands in wonder. "I want to see a peacock too!" she exclaimed. Charu curled up in Murali's lap, content and purring.
Soon, Mother and Father returned from school. They hugged Murali tightly, their faces full of pride. "Welcome home, our adventurer," Father said. Mother added, "We are so glad you are safe and happy." The whole family sat together, sharing laughter and snacks. Hridya held Murali's hand, not wanting to let go.
Finally, as the sky turned golden with sunset, Hridya looked up at her brother with shining eyes. "Brother, when I go to camp someday, you must come with me. Promise?"
Murali's heart filled with warmth. He ruffled her hair gently and replied, "We shall plan many adventures together, my little explorer." Hand in hand, they walked inside, with Charu trotting beside them. Murali stroked her soft fur, feeling the cozy embrace of home in every heartbeat. What a joyful, loving end to the most wonderful camp!
***
Life-Skills Introduced in This Chapter
Patience and Listening: Waiting calmly for loved ones and listening carefully to their stories, even when eager, to build stronger family ties.
Expressing Emotions: Sharing feelings of sadness when saying goodbye or joy upon reunion, to create open and trusting relationships.
Curiosity and Asking Questions: Asking thoughtful questions about others' experiences to learn new things and show interest in their lives.
Family Support and Affection: Greeting family members with hugs, kisses, and kind words to express love and make everyone feel valued.
Caring for Pets: Including pets in family activities, petting them gently, and noticing their happiness to practice kindness and responsibility.
