Aruna's hands trembled as she held the steaming cup of chai, her eyes fixed on her parents' somber faces. The evening sunlight streaming through the window seemed to fade into the background as her mother spoke.
"Aruna, beta, we've found a suitable match for you."
Aruna's heart sank. She had always known this day would come, but she hadn't expected it so soon.
"Who is he?" Aruna asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
"Rohan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jain. He's a successful businessman, and his family is well-respected in our community."
Aruna's mind raced. She had heard of the Jains, but she knew nothing about Rohan.
"When do I meet him?" Aruna asked, feeling a sense of trepidation.
"Tomorrow evening. They're coming over for dinner."
Aruna nodded, her mind whirling with thoughts of this stranger who would soon become her husband.