Sita Smith was a stunning young woman with long, dark hair that cascaded in gentle waves down her back. She had warm, dark eyes that sparkled with a mixture of intelligence and mischief, and a warm smile that could light up a room.
She dressed impeccably, with a keen eye for detail and a flair for fashion that set her apart from the crowd. Despite her beauty and grace, Sita was often guarded, her reserved nature concealing a world of passion and ambition.
Sita's fingers danced across the screen of her phone as she composed a quick message to her best friend, Vanessa.
"Dinner tonight? Just got hired!
Within seconds, her phone buzzed with a reply.
"OMG CONGRATS!!! We are so celebrating"!
Sita grinned as she tucked her phone into her purse and made her way to the trendy downtown restaurant where she and Vanessa had decided to meet.
The restaurant was bustling with activity, but Sita easily spotted Vanessa waving from a table by the window. She walked over, eager to catch up with her friend and share the news of her new job.
Vanessa rose from her seat, wrapping Sita in a warm embrace. "Look at you, Miss Marketing Executive! I'm so proud of you, Sita!" she exclaimed, beaming with pride.
Sita laughed, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Thanks, Vanessa! I'm so glad you could make it. It's been forever since we had a chance to chat."
The two friends settled into their seats, quickly ordering drinks and appetizers. Vanessa leaned forward, her eyes shining with excitement.
"So, tell me everything! How's the new job? Are your coworkers nice? And, most importantly, what do you think of your new boss?"
Sita giggled, happy to have someone to share her thoughts with. "The job's going great so far! Everyone seems really friendly and supportive.
"Enough about me!" Sita exclaimed with a grin. "How's the freelance life treating you? Any exciting projects in the works?"
Vanessa's face lit up. "Actually, I've got a new client who's a real up-and-coming fashion brand. They've asked me to design their new logo and branding materials. It's really exciting, and they're even paying me in clothing samples!"
Sita laughed. "Sounds like a dream job!
Sita quickly shifted gears, redirecting the conversation to a lighter topic. "So, what's the dating scene like for you these days? Anyone caught your eye lately?"
Vanessa let out a good-natured groan. "Ugh, don't even get me started! Dating in this city is a nightmare. It's either total duds or guys who just want a hookup. And don't even get me started on the ones who ghost after a few dates".
Sita shook her head sympathetically, taking a sip of her wine. "Sounds rough, Nessa. Well, if it's any consolation, you're not the only one struggling. Dating in general is such a minefield. I'm starting to wonder if it's even worth the hassle."
Vanessa gave her a knowing look. "Oh, come on now, don't tell me you've given up on love? You know, it's not all bad. I mean, you could end up with someone amazing if you keep at it."
"Yeah, I suppose," Sita replied with a shrug. "But, honestly, it feels like the odds are stacked against me. Especially with my parents breathing down my neck about this arranged marriage thing."
Vanessa leaned in, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Speaking of your parents, have they set you up with anyone yet?"
Sita's face flushed red. "Ugh, not yet. But I know they're working on it. They've been dropping subtle hints left and right.
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Sita sighed, her shoulders slumping with resignation. "I just don't know how to handle it, Vanessa. I mean, I want to respect my parents' wishes, but I also don't want to get married just because they say so."
"That's a tough spot to be in, Sita. But you've got to put yourself first. This is your life we're talking about," Vanessa replied, her voice firm but gentle.
Sita nodded, but her expression was still uncertain. "I know, I know. But what if they disown me?
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Vanessa took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "Sita, your parents love you. They want what's best for you. But, ultimately, you have to live with the consequences of your decisions. If they can't accept that you want to find love on your own terms, that's their problem, not yours."
Sita's expression shifted, an almost imperceptible smile curling the corners of her mouth. "Wow, Vanessa, that was surprisingly wise. Are you sure you're not a therapist in disguise?"
Vanessa laughed, her shoulders shaking.
"Hey, I'm just a regular old freelance graphic designer with a knack for doling out sage advice," Vanessa retorted, winking playfully at her friend. "Seriously though, Sita, you've got to stand up for yourself.
"And listen," Vanessa continued, leaning in again. "I'll help you figure this out. If you need to escape your parents' matchmaking schemes for a while, you can always crash at my place.
Sita's expression softened, gratitude filling her eyes. "Thanks, Vanessa. You're a true friend. And hey, maybe we should have a girls' night soon. No boys allowed. Just some wine, some good food, and lots of ranting about the trials and tribulations of dating in the city."
Vanessa grinned. "I'm totally down for that. Maybe we can watch some cheesy rom-coms and eat our weight in ice cream too?"
Sita let out a laugh. "Sounds like the perfect recipe for a night in.
As the night wound down, Sita and Vanessa paid their tab and left the restaurant with full bellies and lighter hearts. The moon hung low in the sky as they made their way down the bustling city streets, the streetlamps casting a warm, golden glow on the sidewalk.
"Sita, promise me something?" Vanessa said, a hint of seriousness creeping into her voice.
"Of course," Sita replied, intrigued. "What's up?"
Vanessa paused, her eyes searching Sita's face.
"Promise me you won't let your parents' wishes overshadow what you truly want for yourself," Vanessa said, her voice steady. "I know it's not easy, but you deserve to find your own happiness."
Sita bit her lip, considering her friend's words. She knew Vanessa was right, but going against her parents' wishes wasn't something she took lightly.
"I promise," she said, her voice quiet but resolute. "I won't forget what you said, Vanessa. I promise."