Picking a side

Ashwin Goyal

Dec 4, 2023

In the beginning, there were two. They were inseparable, sharing secrets under starlit skies and dreams over morning coffee. In moments of difficulty, they were each other's sanctuary, and in a world full of change, they were each other's constant.

Then there were three. One chose her independence and the other embraced motherhood. As one rapidly climbed the corporate ladder, the other's baby became the center of her universe. Both remained true to themselves as their choices pulled them apart.

And then, there was one. Alone, she reflected on the choices that had led them here. She missed her friend dearly. Sometimes, a call was made, missed, and then forgotten. Their lives, once so aligned, now marched to different beats. Try as they might, they would never be in sync again.

Becoming a mother

"In a few years, I'll be the boss," she dreams, her mind full of career plans. But she decides on a brief pause, just enough to ensure her little one gets the best start. As he goes off to school, she’s his cheerleader, cheering him

Waiting

"Later," she said practically, sitting in their modest living room. They were an average couple, conscientious and rational, choosing to be responsible before taking the leap into parenthood. He, a man of the modern era, was supportive of her autonomy. Besides, he wanted them to enjoy their youth.