Call me Mom

"Aunty let me pay." Serene said.

She tried to give her credit card but Aditi sternly took it away and said. "No, I am an elder here. Only I can pay. I particularly came here to shop for you. Now Shh." Aditi was resolute to not let her pay this time.

Last time she didn't have the right, but this time… No.

Serene saw her unshakeable eyes. She knew she couldn't win. With little reluctance she said. "Aunty let me pay for next. You already bought me a lot."

Aditi again denied her. "Definitely no. I always wanted to treat my daughter like a princess. And with you I would do that. I want to go shopping, to the movies, and dinner." Aditi said with excitement visible in her voice.

Serene was baffled when she heard daughter from her mouth. She never heard that from anyone before. It sounds very soft to her ears. That endearment was genuine and way too warming for her heart.