Disha, having taken some time to rest, joined her parents in the living room for evening tea. They gathered around, sipping their tea, and engaged in light conversation about the upcoming engagement preparations.
Disha, with a curious look on her face, asked, "Why are we rushing into all this, Mom? It feels like everything is happening so quickly."
Disha's mother explained, "Nita called their Panditji, and after reading your and Aryan's Kundali (Horoscope) he suggested the dates for the engagement and wedding. It seems like everything is falling into place according to the stars."
Disha could only nod in response.
Aarti added that after tea, they had to go shopping for the engagement.
Aarti excitedly exclaimed, "We have to find the perfect outfit for you, Disha!"
With a resigned expression, Disha chose to keep silent, realizing she had no other option but to go along with the shopping plans.
Disha, donned in black jeans and a t-shirt with her hair neatly tied in a ponytail, added a touch of lipstick and kajal before heading to the living room.
Vijay took the driver's seat, Aarti settled in the passenger seat, and Disha occupied the back seat as they embarked on their shopping journey.
As Disha was their only child, her parents wanted to make the engagement grand for her, without considering any limitations. They started their shopping journey by heading to the jewellery shop.
Aarti suggested, "Why don't you pick a ring for Aryan?
Disha gestured to the jeweler, saying, "Can you please show me some designs from this section?" Pointing towards gold ring section.
Vijay interrupted and informed Disha, "We are buying a diamond ring for Aryan."
Disha, stunned for a moment and realizing that Vijay was serious about buying a diamond, asked, "Is it really necessary to buy a diamond ring?"
Vijay smiled and nodded, saying, "Yes, beta."
Disha turned towards the jewellers and requested them to show some diamond rings from which she could choose.
After examining a few designs, Disha chose a diamond ring.
Disha's parents also liked the ring, and afterward, Aarti bought some jewellery for Disha. They then made their way to their next destination, a designer boutique.
Upon entering the boutique, a beautiful girl welcomed them and inquired about their preferences to guide them accordingly.
Aarti requested the girl to show lehengas for Disha's engagement.
The girl replied, "Certainly! We have a stunning collection of lehengas. What color and style are you looking for?"
Aarti, well-informed by Nita that Aryan had chosen blue, conveyed, "We're specifically looking for a blue lehenga for the engagement."
The girl led them to the lehenga section, showcasing an array of beautiful lehengas.
Aarti encouraged Disha to choose a lehenga according to her preferences.
Aarti said, "Take your time, beta. Choose a lehenga that makes you feel special and beautiful."
Disha started exploring the collection, carefully examining each lehenga. She selected a stunning light blue - grey lehenga with intricate embroidery that complemented the chosen engagement theme. Aarti and Vijay were pleased with her choice. The boutique staff took measurements to ensure a perfect fit, and they continued shopping for other accessories. After finalizing their purchases, they headed home, excited about the upcoming engagement.
Aarti and Vijay, back home, swiftly engaged in preparations, packing gifts and calling relatives to inform them about the upcoming engagement. Despite the short notice, they apologized for the sudden invitation and expressed joy that they would be present at the wedding, promising to make it for the more significant celebration.
Disha retreated to her room, overwhelmed with stress. The engagement was scheduled for the day after tomorrow, and being a new job entrant, she couldn't easily request leave. The mounting pressure left her grappling with the challenges that lay ahead.
Disha rushed to the living room and confronted Vijay, "How am I supposed to work and manage everything with the marriage happening so soon? I've just joined, and it's not easy to ask for leave on such short notice."
Vijay and Aarti, caught up in the excitement of Disha's impending marriage, had completely overlooked her job.
Vijay reassured Disha, "Don't worry, beta. I've already spoken to Aryan's family, and they are modern people. They don't have any issues with you continuing to work."
Disha: "But what about taking leave for the engagement and marriage?"
Aarti firmly said: "It might be a good idea if you resign from your job for now. Once you're settled after the marriage, you can think about working again. Taking leave seems to be a significant concern."
Vijay, concerned: "Aarti, don't you think it's Disha's decision? She can manage her job and personal life."
Aarti, firm: "Vijay, I just want the best for her. Balancing work and married life can be challenging, especially at the beginning."
Vijay started to speak again, but Aarti cut him off.
Aarti interrupted, emphasizing her point, "Vijay, trust me, it will be better for Disha if she focuses on settling into her new life. She can always resume her job later."
Then Aarti turned towards Disha and ordered her to resign from her job and focus on married life for the time being.
Aarti sternly said, "Disha, it's for the best. Focus on your new life. You can always resume your career later."
Disha, without uttering a word, hurriedly retreated to her room. Vijay continued calling her name, but she didn't stop.
Vijay, with a tone of anger and concern, questioned Aarti, "Don't you think you were too harsh on her? She's already getting married at such a young age, and now you're asking her not to think about her future. How could you say those words to her?"
Aarti, with a somber expression, turned towards Vijay and replied, "I just want what's best for her, for our family. Sometimes, decisions might seem harsh, but they are made with good intentions."
Aarti further added, "Today, we called so many people to join us in celebrating our daughter's happiness. Everyone gave us different excuses and promised that they will attend the marriage, but deep down, you also know that most of them will not show up at the wedding."
Aarti continued, "We don't have any close relatives, so if, after marriage, Disha is getting a family who can take care of her, then yes, I'm being selfish and asking her to leave her job and make space for herself in her new family."
Aarti further said, "Have you ever thought about what will happen to Disha if anything happens to us?"
Aarti's question left Vijay silent, unsure of how to respond.
Understanding Aarti's intentions, Vijay gave her an assuring smile, and they both continued gift packing and making a list of things they would need.
In her room, Disha was not happy with how her mother reacted, and now she had to leave her job. She lay on the bed, and slowly tears made their way, pouring onto her pillow.
In a moment of contemplation, Disha found herself lost in her thoughts. The serenity was interrupted by the familiar ring of her phone, and as she glanced at the screen, recognizing Kunal's caller ID, she swiftly sat up and answered the call. The room, once filled with introspection, now echoed with the conversation between Disha and Kunal.
Kunal inquired, "What's up?"
Feeling a pang of regret, Disha realized she had forgotten to inform Kunal and Kajal about her engagement and marriage. Everything was happening so fast that she didn't know exactly what to do.
Noticing Disha's silence on the phone, Kunal asked, "Disha, are you there? Is everything alright?"
Disha replied slowly, "Yes, Kunal."
Kunal asked her, "How have you been? Why haven't you called or texted in the past few days?
Kunal teased her, "Is your job keeping you so busy that you're forgetting about me?"
"I wish that was the only issue, Kunal," Disha responded, her voice reflecting a mix of sadness and uncertainty.
Kunal, concerned, asked, "What's wrong, Disha? You sound upset. Is something bothering you?"
Disha said, "Actually, I have some news to share, but it would be better if we meet in person."
Kunal responded, "Certainly, let me know the location, and I'll arrive shortly."
In her mind, Disha decided that since she's meeting Aryan tomorrow and will be busy with preparations afterward, it's better to meet Kunal now and share the news about her marriage.
Disha replied, "Okay, meet me near the corner of my house."
Kunal responded, "Okay, I'll be there in 10 minutes." With that, both hung up the call.
Disha chose a casual knee-length dress, opting not to put on makeup. She swiftly grabbed her essentials—phone and bag—and descended the staircase, making her way to the living room.
In the living room, Disha approached her parents, seeking their permission despite the lingering frustration with her mother. Respectfully, she inquired if she could go out for a while.
Disha's parents, noting her usual tendency to avoid going out at night, expressed concern and inquired about her destination.
Vijay asked, "Beta, where are you heading out at this hour?"
Disha assured her parents, "Don't worry, I won't be long. I just want to share the news with Kunal in person and invite him to the engagement and wedding."
Disha's parents, familiar with Kunal from Disha's school days, nodded in agreement and advised her to take care of herself as she headed out.
Disha made her way to the corner of her house, where Kunal was patiently waiting in his car. She took the passenger seat, and with that, Kunal started driving, navigating through the streets with a calm and steady pace.
Kunal, breaking the silence, asked Disha, "Where would you like to go?"
As they drove, Disha looked out of the window and replied, "Wherever you feel is okay." She wanted to talk to Kunal, so she needed a quiet place.
Kunal nodded and started driving towards his favorite cafe, "Serenity Brews."
After a 10-minute drive, they arrived at "Serenity Haven." Kunal courteously walked around the car and opened the door for Disha, inviting her to step out. The soft glow of the café lights and the serene atmosphere created an ideal setting for their conversation.
As they entered the café, Kunal pulled out a chair for Disha, ensuring she was comfortable. Once she settled down, he took a seat opposite her. Kunal promptly ordered Disha's favorite iced latte and a black coffee for himself.
Kunal, with a warm smile, initiated the conversation. "So, what's the news you wanted to share with me? You sounded a bit serious on the phone," he said, sipping his coffee.
Disha took a deep breath before responding, "Kunal, I'm getting engaged and married soon."
Kunal, who was sipping his coffee, suddenly spat it out, burning his mouth, and started coughing loudly.
Disha hurriedly ran towards the counter, bringing a water bottle and tissues for Kunal. She gave it to him and sat down, asking, "Are you okay, Kunal?"
Kunal, with an angry glare, he forcefully grabbed her hand, dragging her out of the cafe with an intensity that conveyed his frustration.
Disha's hand tightly clasped in Kunal's grip, while her other hand fiercely clutched onto her bag, almost as if she was holding onto it for dear life.
As they stepped outside the cafe, Kunal abruptly released her hand, causing Disha to stumble on her steps. In an attempt to regain her balance, she instinctively reached out and grabbed onto Kunal's car for support.
Kunal raised his voice, instructing her to sit inside the car. He sternly shouted, "Sit inside now!"
Seeing Disha unmoving and still standing, Kunal, wearing a stern expression, swiftly approached her, forcefully opening the car door and pushing her into the passenger seat. The door closed with a resounding thud, leaving Disha in a state of shock.
He hastily sat inside the car, fastened his seatbelt, and then moved toward Disha to secure her seatbelt.
Realizing Kunal's proximity, Disha snapped back to reality. She instinctively retreated, attempting to open the car door with her left hand, only to find it securely locked.
In silence, Kunal fastened Disha's seatbelt, avoiding her gaze, and then began driving without uttering a word.
Disha, angered by his actions, shouted at him, her voice filled with anger, exclaimed, "Stop the car! I want to go home!"
Despite Disha's demands, Kunal ignored her and continued driving.
In frustration, Disha started throwing punches at Kunal, hoping he would stop the car. However, he simply glared at her, unaffected by her actions.
As he drove recklessly, Disha clung to her seatbelt tightly, tears welling up in her eyes as she witnessed Kunal's unexpected behavior for the first time.
Amidst the cacophony of horns from surrounding vehicles, Kunal could still discern Disha's sobs. Abruptly, he took a turn and brought the car to a halt at a dead-end road.
Disha swiftly stepped out of the car upon realizing that Kunal had brought it to a stop.
Kunal swiftly stepped out of the car and moved toward Disha, firmly holding her hand to prevent her from leaving.
Kunal's grip on Disha's hand was so tight that it caused her pain. She struggled to free her hand, but his hold only intensified, causing her more distress.
Amidst her sobs, Disha managed to express, "Kunal, it's hurting."
Recognizing his actions, Kunal loosened his grip on her hand but didn't let go.
Disha, with teary eyes, asked Kunal, "What happened, Kunal? Why are you behaving like this?"
Kunal, without answering, just looked at Disha with intense eyes filled with a mix of anger and hurt.
In response, Kunal angrily punched his car window, causing the glass to shatter into pieces and leaving his hand bloodied.
Disha got scared hearing the glass-shattering noise and seeing Kunal's bleeding hand.
Kunal, with a fierce expression, stared at Disha and snapped, "You're wondering why I'm acting like this? You showed up to invite me to your engagement."
Disha, still in shock, looked at Kunal with wide eyes as his outburst caught her completely off guard. The intensity of the situation left her speechless.
Kunal, with anger in his voice, continued, "You have no idea about my feelings!" Right?
Disha, still recovering from the shock, gazed at him with a confused expression.
Kunal, frustration evident, chuckled to himself and exclaimed, "How the hell would you know? I never expressed it to you. I was damn well waiting for the right moment."
Disha, still bewildered by Kunal's words, maintained her gaze, trying to comprehend his intense emotions.
Kunal declared in a loud voice, "Disha, I love you."
Kunal, confessed to Disha, "Disha, I love you. You mean everything to me. I can't imagine my life without you."
Disha, while caring deeply for Kunal and valuing their long-standing friendship, had never crossed the line into romantic feelings. Kunal held a special place in her heart as a protector and confidant from their childhood. Witnessing him in such a vulnerable state tore at her, not out of romantic affection, but from the pain of seeing a cherished friend suffer.
Disha, still processing the sudden confession, stuttered, "Kunal, I didn't... I didn't know."
Kunal, frustration evident in his voice, continued, "You never knew because I never had the guts to say it. And now, I find out about your engagement? Why, Disha? Why now?"
Disha, still processing the revelation, stammered, "Kunal, I... I didn't know. This all happened so fast, and I thought I should tell you about my engagement."
Kunal, visibly upset, replied, "Engagement? You're getting engaged to someone else when I've been carrying these feelings for you? How could you, Disha?"
Disha, torn between the unexpected confession and the impending engagement, tried to explain, "Kunal, I had no idea you felt this way. My parents arranged everything so quickly, and I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings."
Kunal, retorted, "What about my feelings, Disha? Did you ever think about that? You were my best friend, and now you're getting engaged without even knowing how I feel about you."
Kunal, unable to contain his emotions, turned back to Disha with an intense gaze. "Do you even understand what love is, Disha? I've been silently loving you, and you're getting engaged to someone else!"
Disha, with a soothing tone, responded, "Kunal, I never knew about your feelings. If I had known, things might have been different. But please, don't let this destroy our friendship. I value you a lot."
Kunal, frustrated and hurt, snapped, "Friendship? Disha, it was never just friendship for me. You mean more to me than you can imagine."
Disha, trying to calm him down, said, "Kunal, I'm truly sorry if my actions have hurt you. I never meant for any of this to happen.
Kunal, overwhelmed with emotions, abruptly released her hand and moved closer, pulling Disha into a tight, unexpected hug. The sudden embrace left Disha stunned, her heart racing with a mix of confusion and surprise.
Kunal's voice, soft and pleading, resonated near Disha's ear as he poured his heart out. "Please don't get married. Give me one chance to prove my love, Disha. I really love you. I can't live without you." The intensity of his words hung in the air, a desperate plea for a chance at love.
Kunal, observing her silence, slowly moved back, breaking the embrace. Tears streamed down his eyes, mirroring the depth of his emotions.
Disha gazed at him, noticing the tears in his eyes. Her vision blurred as tears started streaming down her own eyes in response to the emotional moment.
In that poignant moment, both remained silent, tears cascading down their cheeks. One wept for the unfulfilled love, and the other for the complexity of emotions tied to friendship, and
heart torn by the prospect of an unknown future. Disha felt the weight of leaving her parents behind in pursuit of a path she hadn't chosen.