Rudr listened to Yug Ji's words, making a face, and said, "Dad, this is so old-fashioned. We're not in some movie. Just say you want to deepen our friendship like family."
Shivani Ji agreed with Rudr, "You're right, son."
Yug Ji helplessly shook his head, listening to his wife and son.
Shivani Ji continued, "We'll make our son and your friend's daughter fall in love. It'll be wonderful!"
Rudr, sitting nearby, high-fived Shivani Ji, delighted.
Shivani Ji asked, "What's your friend's name and his daughter's?"
Yug Ji replied, "My friend's name is Rajesh, and his daughter's name is Nia."
Shivani Ji exclaimed, "Nia is such a lovely name! She must be lovely too."
Yug Ji nodded, "Yes, she's a sweet girl. I met her once; she's very friendly and outgoing."
Shivani Ji asked, "What about that girl who works with Manan? Kamini?"
Rudr corrected, "No, Mom, it's Kaminee. She's a makeup-obsessed witch. I've seen her without makeup; she's terrifying!" Rudr dramatically rested his head on Shivani Ji's lap.
Yug Ji chuckled, watching his wife and son.
Yug Ji said, "Enough pampering. Listen to me."
Shivani Ji teased, "Oh, we're listening."
Yug Ji continued, "I'll talk to Rajesh tomorrow about Nia's marriage."
Shivani Ji interrupted, "That's fine, but I won't let our son's wedding be boring. I'll handle it with Rudr. You just arrange the meeting."
Yug Ji smiled, knowing Shivani Ji's planning skills.
Shivani Ji added, "We'll involve Jayashree Ji too."
(Yug Ji and Shivani Ji knew Jayashree Ji from social functions, but Shivani Ji hadn't met Nia, who was always elsewhere)
Yug Ji concluded, "Alright, as you wish. Now, let's sleep. Rudr, you have a meeting tomorrow."
Rudr bid goodnight and headed to his room.
The next morning, Jayashree Ji was preparing breakfast in Nia's house. Rajesh Ji read the newspaper, while Sanchee went to wake Nia up.
Sanchee said, "Wake up, Nia. Aunty's calling. Breakfast is ready."
Nia didn't budge. Sanchee removed Nia's blanket and started tickling her.
Nia's weakness was being tickled; only Sanchee and Nia's parents knew this.
As Sanchee tickled Nia, Nia laughed and sat up, saying, "Sanchee, if you don't stop, I'll pour ice water on you!"
Sanchee quickly ran downstairs, with Nia chasing her.
To be continued.
First read by Sadu.
Hearts and smiles filled the air.