A large home with three levels stood in the Hauz Khas neighbourhood of Delhi. On the nameplate, it said: "Mathurs"
Mr. Alok Mathur, a successful businessman, lived there with his family: his wife Ragini, their daughter Aarya, and their son Akash. Aarya was a software engineer and had been employed in Pune at one point. However, she handed in her resignation and moved back to Delhi about a month ago. She had beautiful eyes, a sweet and pure face. Most people would consider her charming. At this very moment, she was sipping her tea at the dining table. Ragini was rushing about the table, serving breakfast, and asking Aakash, a high school student of 16 years, to put away his mobile game.
"Akash, step it up. If you don't put that object away, you'll end up being late to school." She said it in a severe tone.
"Yes, mum just a minute." He responded while he was gazing down.
"It is beyond my comprehension how to deal with this young lad. Aarya, could you kindly advise him to put all of his attention on his schoolwork?"
Aakash smirked "Didi is a game designer mum. Sister, take a look at this brand-new exciting game...."
"I have no interest in discussing any of the games! Never bring that up in conversation with me again!" Aarya was on the verge of yelling.
Aakash became still and gazed at her with a shocked expression.
Ragini looked concerned "Aarya? Are you ok?"
Aarya brought herself back together. "I am sorry Akash I apologise for shouting at you. I'm sorry, Mom, but I don't feel too good. I have to get back to my room now." She stood up and walked away.
Ragini did not stop looking at her till the moment she was completely obscured from her view. After some time had passed, Ragini discovered Aarya supine on her bed, staring up at the ceiling. She sat down on the bed and began to softly stroke her forehead in a soothing manner. Aarya hid her eyes by closing them.
"Aarya, ever since you returned, you have been quiet; is there something troubling you?"
Aarya's response came without her opening either of her eyes "not even close, mum. I am fine."
"You haven't even left the house once. You haven't even met your buddies here. You can tell me; I am your mother."
Aarya abruptly turned around and buried her head in Ragini's lap out of fear that her mother would observe the expression on her face.
"I am simply confused, mama. I quit my work in Pune because I didn't enjoy the environment there. I have not yet resolved the question of how I should spend the rest of my life."
"Is that all there is? It's for the best that you left Pune. You should not have gone there under any circumstances, but you never listen to what I say. Anyway, now that you are back, I have no doubt that you will figure something out."
Before Ragini could see it, Aarya hastily brushed away a tenacious tear that had just escaped from her eyes. If her parents discovered the real reason for her return, they might go into shock. They would be utterly devastated.
"You are absolutely correct, mama. I should have avoided going to Pune at all costs "It was a hushed voice.
That evening, Alok Mathur came home to his residence with a smile on his face.
"Dear, you seem to be in a great good mood." Ragini remarked as she handed him a cup of tea.
"I am really happy to report some positive news. Guess what question Mr. Bhatnagar posed to me today, given that Shashank would be returning from the United States of America next month:"
"What?" Ragini said.
"They want their son Shashank to marry Aarya. Because they had been our friends for such a long time, I was unable to refuse their offer."
Ragini's face lighted up "That is exceptionally good news, but before moving forwards, we ought to get Aarya's approval. Even though I don't think she'd refuse, I think we should still ask her anyhow."
"Of course! My daughter has consistently given me reason to be proud. Her wedding is my dream. I just cannot wait to see her in her bridal attire." Mr. Alok brightened.
Aarya had listened in on their talk without either of them realising it. She held tightly onto the handrails of the staircase. After what had happened in Pune, she was unable to even consider getting into a relationship with anyone. She toyed with the idea of turning down the wedding but seeing her parents so happy about it put her heart into a tizzy. As soon as she heard her mother's approach, she ran back into her bedroom and picked up a book to make it look like she was busy doing something else. Ragini entered her room while lugging a tray into which she had placed a teacup.
Aarya jumped right to her feet and snatched the tray away from Ragini "I don't understand, mum; why did you bring the tea? You could have called me."
Ragini smiled "oh! It's ok! I have a question for you, if you don't mind."
She asked Aarya while they were sitting together on the bed, "Aarya, do you like Shashank?"
"My relationship with him dates back many years, mum. Yeah, I do like him." Aarya was prepared for what was to come.
"In any case, Mr. Bhatnagar has made a marriage proposal for Shashank, and you. Your father and I are overjoyed by the news. They are incredibly good people, and you have been around each other for the majority of your lives. What are your thoughts on the matter?"
Aarya turned her attention to her mother. Never before had she appeared to be so ecstatic, and if she declined, everyone would be sad.
"What are Shashank's thoughts on this?" Aarya asked.
"If he hadn't consented, Mr. Bhatnagar wouldn't have bothered to contact us in the first place. Do you like him?" Ragini's expression revealed her desire.
Aarya deliberated over the response she would give "You have my permission, mum, to act anyway you see fit. I am willing to wed anyone you choose." Aarya gave her response.
"Oh! I am really delighted Aarya. You are without equal when it comes to daughters. Oh! Now try not to cry because we still have some time together before you leave us." Ragini laughed as she wrapped her arms around Aarya.
Aarya broke down in tears while clinging to her mother's shoulders and thinking "No, mum, I am the worst daughter. You have no idea what I have done.”
The mother and daughter both wept, but Ragini's tears were of happiness. Aarya shed tears of sorrow for her regrets.
After that, everything moved along at a breakneck speed. One month later, a date for the wedding was finally decided upon. They were planning to travel for the United States a week after the wedding. Shashak was scheduled to arrive a week before the wedding. As the big day drew closer, Aarya became increasingly anxious. She had no choice but to tell Shashank the truth about everything. However, it was impossible to meet him because the wedding ceremonies would begin shortly after he arrived. This made it tough to schedule a meeting. She occasionally entertained the idea of keeping her history to herself, but the burden of shame was too great for her to bear. The second reason was that she didn't want to begin a new life based on a falsehood. There was a possibility that the wedding would be cancelled. Despite this, she was willing to put herself in harm's way. She was unable to stop her hands from shaking as she reached for her phone to call Shashank.
The home was alive with activity. There were visitors, relatives, and friends who all had a part in the chaos. The sound of dholak and shehnai confirmed that a wedding was taking place. Aarya Mathur's wedding. Aarya and Shashank had spent their entire childhood together. They attended the same high school. Despite of being two years older Shashank was her best friend. Most of their friends assumed they were dating because they were so close. This was not the case. Theirs had always been a platonic friendship. "Aarya, be cautious, you'll ruin your Mehendi," Asha said, breaking her trance. Looking at her friend, Aarya grinned. "Don't worry, Asha, I'll keep an eye on it." Asha came and sat near her looking at her Heena "Lovely design. Where's the groom's name?" Aarya laughed "Asha you know I hate these cheesy things." Asha said "Silly girl! did you see your wedding dress? It arrived from the boutique." Aarya smiled "Yeah it must be kept somewhere I saw it during the fittings". Ash
Because that intriguing stranger had vanished into the crowd, I concentrated on finding my buddies. I was cautiously walking, attempting to avoid the crowd of undulating bodies. One of the exuberantly dancing fellows suddenly knocked me off my feet. I fell backwards and closed my eyes, expecting to hit the hard floor, but was instead cradled by two strong arms. I opened my eyes, out of breath, and saw those deep blue goggles again. For a brief moment, my breath came to a halt. Not because of the impact, but because of THE IMPACT. I could have kissed him because his face was that close to mine. He had a half-smile on his face that was humorous. I was shivering for no apparent reason. After assisting me in standing up straight, he said, "Careful! I won't always be available to help you." "I thought you were gone," I said, a flush crawling up my neck. He responded "I'm not following you, so don't worry. I was heading the same way you were “. "No, I wasn't implying that... I mean, I h
The new guy narrowed his eyes and peered at me with an inquisitive expression on his face. He had a commanding presence because to his towering stature, broad shoulders, and stunning looks. Because he was wearing a white t-shirt, he stood out immediately. It felt like I'd seen him before. I was unaware that someone was introducing the two of us. He extended his hand. "Hi I am Ishaan Shekhawat." "Aarya," I said. He smiled "Aarya Stark?" I had a good laugh "No, it's just Mathur here. Aarya Mathur." “I'm willing to wager that you hear that a lot!” He showed a grin. I responded by saying that I was accustomed to it. "It's good to meet you," he said with a grin. Suddenly, I was able to place his identity. It was impossible to forget that flawless jawline. It turned out that he was the same person I had seen in Phoenix a few months earlier. I couldn't help but blurt out, "I know you." He wore a sly grin on his face. "Excuse me. Do you recognise who I am? I was under the impression
Wind and raindrops whipped off my face. Ishaan was driving at a breakneck speed. I felt as if I was living a dream, last few hours were bliss. It wasn't like I never got male attention. I got enough of it! but very few of them caught my interest. I was just 22 all I wanted to do was have some fun. I looked around but couldn't spot any other member of the gang. It was like we were driving alone on the highway. It was dark and we were whizzing past the thick vegetation. I whispered into the vicinity of his ear, "Aren’t we moving too quickly?" "You want me to slow down?" he asked in response. I answered "I don't mean the rate of travel. There does not appear to be anyone else from our group here." He chuckled "Don’t worry I am not kidnapping you. I am well aware of our destination.” I suddenly visualized us lost in the woods indulging in all sorts of wild things that had never crossed my mind before. I drew in a slow breath because I hardly knew this person. And yet, I made the deci
For a week, I didn't see him. Was I hoping to bump into Ishaan again? Maybe. I was preoccupied with my work. Though he used to pop up in my mind quite frequently. I had already stalked him on social media, but I was hesitant to add him as a friend. Men, in my opinion, should make the first move. That is how old fashioned I am. Since that day, I had not heard from him. I had not heard from him since that day. I had not given him my number. He didn't ask. I wondered if ever thought of me. On Friday, I turned off my computer, ecstatic at the possibility of finally having a weekend. It was an unfamiliar number that buzzed my phone. From the opposite side, a deep voice spoke. "Hello, I hope your small feet have recovered from your strenuous hiking," says the narrator. "Excuse me, who is this?" "Your chauffeur," he said. "What?" "Well, I did give you a ride, so I'm technically your chauffeur." My heart began to race out of nowhere "Ishaan It's you, right? How did you get my phone numb
I smiled to myself as I walked back to the flat for no obvious reason. Swati gave me a curious look but said nothing. I sat down next to Swati after freshening up. She removed her headphones and stated. "I know you've been itching to say something, so go ahead and say anything." "Well, the movie was good, and dinner was very good," I chuckled. “Ishaan is an absolute dreamboat! He is a graduate of MIT. He is the owner of his own firm and a BMW!!" "What?!?" shouted Swati. "I knew he was a millionaire, but what firm is he with?" "I neglected to enquire since I was so enthralled by the BMW." Swati sighed and rolled her eyes. "Did he say anything to you about his family?" No, I said as I shook my head. "Anyways, did he you know to attempt anything?" Swati asked, frustrated. I began to blush. "What makes you think he'd do that?" "Otherwise, why would he take you to a dark theatre?" I recalled Ishaan moving my hair away from my face, but it was merely a friendly gesture. "Nothing!
We were seated at one of the posh establishments. "How much do you know about video games?" Ishaan inquired. "It has become an addiction for my 15-year-old brother. Until I learnt about the development aspect of things, I thought it was a waste of time. It's amazing how much thought and imagination goes into it." "Thank God! Finally, someone who recognises my worth! Gaming is now extremely popular. There are X box games, PlayStations, and fantasy games such as Warcraft, Chinese Ghost Story, and so on. By the way, I adore fantasy games." He took a breather. "The vast majority of these fantasy games are set in China, Korea, or the United States. They feature elaborate characters based on various mythology, comic books, and even movies. However, there aren't many gaming companies in India. Our research indicates that there is a huge demand for it. Particularly among the younger generation. We created a prototype with characters and a storyline that would appeal to the general public."
I managed to mix my demanding profession and fun, happy moments with Ishaan during the ensuing weeks. We got together practically every weekend and, if we could find the time in our busy schedules, perhaps even on weekdays. We visited malls, went to the movies, and occasionally travelled together as a pair as well as with the group to see Pune and its surroundings. Everyone in the group assumed we were a couple by this point. Which was somewhat true, but we hadn't advanced to more intimate level. We didn't do anything else but exchange a couple hugs and a cheek kiss. He was addictive and I was hooked to my new addiction. On a typical Saturday, we headed to the disco with the group. Ishaan's jaw dropped when he saw me in my little black dress, and I felt smug satisfaction. He merely said, "Looking good." Typically, the disco was crowded and boisterous. I was having a cocktail while sitting next to others. Although I don't like to party much, I do enjoy it occasionally. Ishaan wasn't
Aarya -"Ok now what?" I said after Ishaan had ushered me in his car.He swooped down on me and crushed his lips on mine kissing me deeply.I was startled initially but then responded to his kiss. It was the best feeling.It was like a homecoming.After coming back to Earth. He kept gazing at me."What are you doing?""Making sure that all this is not a dream.""Be assured it's not. I have to catch the evening flight back btw.""Cancel it." He simply said while caressing my cheeks."Hmmm so how is this going to work out?""Just marry me and we'll work out everything. " He said trying to kiss me again."Ishaan wait," I said."I know we have been through a lot but are we going to fast? I mean you have directly jumped to the wedding " I said.He kept both his hands on the steering wheel and looked ahead."I am 31 it's about time I get married. We have waited 5 years Aarya. I am d
"May I come in?" Anjali asked.Aarya realized she had been gaping at Anjali for several minutes."Oh yes! Please come in" Aarya said and wondered at herself where were her manners."Please have a seat." She said to Anjali."Umm, would you like to have tea, coffee, or something cold maybe?" Aarya askedAnjali smiled at the nervous girl. She was indeed beautiful. No wonder Ishaan was smitten."Sit," Anjali said to Aarya.Aarya obeyed immediately. She twisted the pearl ring in her hand to fend off some anxiety."You must be wondering about the purpose of my visit," Anjali said.Aarya nodded."Well first of all thank you for bringing my son to me. He hasn't been home for years."Aarya's eyes shot up in surprise."I owe you an apology. We all do."Aarya was contemplating how to react. This was her first meeting with Ishaan's mom and "I know everything about you and Ishaan. I am sorry for what he did to you.""Aunty it's ok. I mean he has apologized already, please you don't have to do this
Aarya floated in and out of consciousness. She was having a nightmare. A nightmare where she was being stripped and violated.She woke up with a scream."Aarya it's ok. You are safe." His soothing voice said."Ishaan" she whispered in the dim light."It's ok dear. I am here for you, please go back to sleep." He patted her head until she drifted off to sleep."She woke up again?" Swati arrived from the other room."Yeah, but she went back to sleep," Ishaan replied."I am glad I rescheduled my trip," Swati said.He was quiet for a moment."I will make sure that bastard never gets out of that jail alive." Ishaan gritted his teeth in anger."It's like Priya all over again. Only this time it's worse." Swati sighed.After rescuing Aarya from the cottage. Ishaan had proceeded to file the FIR and get her medically examined.She was in a shock and been hallucinating under bouts of fever ever since.It had been 3 days now."Ishaan please get some sleep. I will look after her," Swati said.He ran
Aarya woke up with a splitting headache.The sun was already up but most of the room was still dark. She tried to sit up then realized that her hand was tied to the bedpost.She had no idea what time it was or for how many hours she had been knocked out but her growling stomach confirmed it was quiet late probably hours.Aarya recalled the events which led to this. She had cried herself to sleep after a confrontation with Ishaan.She booked a cab for Bangalore and left the hotel early morning before Ishaan could find her. She just wanted to be away from him.She remembered getting into the cab and probably fell asleep in it. She wasn't sure if she fell asleep or she was drugged.When her eyes opened she was here in this dingy room God knows where.With a hammering heart, she tugged at the ropes tying her hand to the headboard. It didn't budge.Her throat felt so dry she could barely speak. The room was sparsely furnished with just a bed and a chair.She heard footsteps. Someone was app
"Hey what's up?" Aarya said while settling down on the sofa."I hope I didn't disturb you?" Shashank said from the other side Aarya glanced at Ishaan who was sitting on the edge of the bed buttoning up his shirt."No it's ok we can talk." "Well there is good news and I wanted you to know first.""That's sweet. What is it?""Astha's pregnant!" Shashank said.Aarya felt as if a bucket of cold water was flung at her."That's great news Shashank. Congratulations! Please convey my regards to Astha as well.""I sure will. Frankly, I am thrilled!" Ishaan's fury grew with each passing moment. He wasn't sure why he was getting overwhelmed with jealously. Perhaps because Shashank was her husband once. Something which he had failed to achieve.Aarya cut the call and stared at the black screen. Her reverie was broken when she felt the cushion sinking next to her.Ishaan plopped down next to her."Sorry I had to take his call." She said.He didn't say anything just placed his hand on hers and sq
It was a short and gentle kiss but it was enough to shake her to the core.She opened her eyes looking into his hazel ones. He had that typical half-smile on his face. He wasn't sure how she would react but there was no trace of anger."Aarya" he whispered."Happy Birthday Ishaan," She said.He looked happy as well as surprised."You remembered?" " Of course." She replied.He looked down and chuckled."You never fail to amaze me Aarya.""Thats my speciality." She grinned at him.He was expecting a backlash for kissing her but instead, she remembered his birthday."So what are we going to do today?" She asked.He scratched his chin pretending to think."I am hungry." "What!"" I can't think when I am hungry." He replied.She laughed ", let's have breakfast then. The dining hall must have opened by now.""We'll have breakfast here, in the garden. I'll call room service.""I would like that very much." She grinned.Soon they were enjoying a private breakfast spread in the garden. The go
Ishaan realized the advantage of sitting on the passenger side. He could gaze at her for hours without bothering about the traffic."Ishaan if you keep staring at me I won't be able to drive.""I am not staring.""Yes, you are. Why don't you look at the scenery outside? It's beautiful?"He rested his head on his palm."Yup beautiful." Aarya chose to ignore his attention and focused on the road ahead. The Jaguar was lovely to drive."I love this car," She commented."You can have it." He said.She laughed."How is Sanchi?" She suddenly asked.His face hardened."She is fine.""And your family?""They are all doing well."He was still evasive about them."Why aren't you in Mumbai Ishaan?" He fidgeted with his phone."I have some work here. I told you I am here for a month." "Really?" She asked."What could be the other reason Aarya?""I don't know. Never been a CEO." She grinned."Shashank used to own a Jaguar as well." She said.The colour drained from Ishaan's face. He suddenly fel
Aarya was nervously tapping her finger on the chair's hand rest. She had never been to a police station before.Ishaan squeezed her hand reassuring her.A friendly looking inspector finally asked them."So how can I help you?""I am getting weird calls. The caller seems to be stalking me.""Hmm please let me know your phone number and the numbers from which you got those calls. Do you doubt anyone?""I am not aware of anyone like that." She said."Anyone ever troubled you? Like past boyfriend, ex, or someone you disagreed with?"Aarya looked at Ishaan. Her ex-boyfriend was sitting right next to her and Shashank wouldn't do anything like this. He wasn't even living in India so it was unlikely he would know her daily routine. She wasn't in touch with anyone else from Pune."I can't think of anyone in particular." She said."Any trouble with law earlier?""There was a guy in our group who was arrested. He used to drug and exploit girls." Ishaan interrupted.Aarya recalled Omar and she was
"Aarya you are being stalked by someone! Why didn't you tell me?" Ishaan asked after he heard the creepy phone call."Its nothing Ishaan.Some prank callers. I have blocked him but he keeps calling from different numbers.""Aarya this is dangerous, we must report it to the police.""I had thought of reporting to the police but then I was caught up in other things.""I don't want you to stay alone either. Move-in with someone or call someone to stay with you." He looked worried."I don't have anyone here. My parents can't be here of course." She said in a small voice.He stared at her for some time. "You can stay with me." He suggested.She gave him an incredulous look."It was just a suggestion. My bad!" He said holding his hands up."Ishaan even if I stay with you. What after one month? I am used to solving my problems on my own. I would handle this as well. Dont worry." She simply said and nibbled at her food.He observed her for some time. She had changed. She wasn't that carefree g