An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 1

The Malhotras – Bangalore

The first rays of dawn crept through the silk curtains of the grand Malhotra mansion, casting a golden glow across the room. Inside, a man could be seen adjusting his tie in front of the mirror, a sharp contrast to the hurried energy of the house around him.

Downstairs, a familiar voice rang through the hall.

"Manik, are you planning to leave today, or should the delegates wait for years for you?"

Rolling his eyes, Manik Malhotra descended the spiral staircase, his crisp blazer slung over his arm. "Mom, save the sarcasm for later. I'm already late."

Nyonika Malhotra chuckled, arms crossed. "Oh really? After waking up two hours ago, you're just getting ready now?"

Before Manik could retort, Raj Malhotra strolled into the kitchen, shaking his head at the usual morning banter. "Are you two family
or enemies? Every morning, it's the same scene."

Manik scoffed. "Dad, seriously? You're taking her side?"

Raj smirked as he grabbed his cup of coffee. "Nyonika, are we set to leave?"

"Yes, breakfast is ready. Boys, Cabir! Cabir, come down!" she called.

From upstairs, a lazy voice groaned, "Yes, boss!"

A moment later, Cabir trudged down, stretching. He slid into his seat beside Manik as the family settled at the dining table. Laughter, casual bickering, and the clinking of cutlery filled the room as they shared a meal before the long journey ahead.

After finishing breakfast, the boys rushed to grab their bags. Just before stepping out, they each kissed Nyonika on the forehead.

"Raj, tell Raman I miss him a lot—and Ishita too," she reminded, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

Raj nodded, smiling. "Yes, ma'am. Anything else?"

Before she could reply, Manik and Cabir groaned in unison, "Dad, we're getting late!"

Raj chuckled. "Are you guys my sons or my enemies? Let's go!"

They exited the house, splitting into two separate luxury cars, security tailing them closely as they headed toward the airport.

The Murthys – Mumbai

Inside the expansive Murthy mansion, a marble-clad temple stood in its heart, bathed in the flickering glow of brass diyas. The sound of devotional songs filled the air as two young women—Nandini and Ishita—stood with folded hands, singing the morning aarti with Abhimanyu and Raman. The sacred scent of sandalwood and incense lingered as they offered prasad to the elders.

As the prayers concluded, Naira—who had arrived late—playfully rolled her eyes.

Ishita smirked. "Naira, what's the excuse for today, darling?"

Naira shrugged. "Correction, Mom, it's not an excuse. Kartik called. Sorry!"

Nandini grinned. "Oh really? At seven in the morning? What do you two talk about so early? 'Did the baby brush his teeth? Is the baby awake?'" She laughed, nudging Naira.

Naira groaned, "Di, please! Don't tease me!"

Nandini only laughed harder. "Haha, it's my right, sweetheart!"

Before Naira could retaliate, Raman interrupted. "Alright, girls, let's stop fighting. Breakfast is ready."

Ishita clapped her hands. "Yes, yes! Everyone, to the table!"

After a lively breakfast, Nandini got ready for her shift at the hospital. Abhimanyu and Raman kissed her forehead in farewell before heading toward their own destinations.

As she stepped out of the mansion, she noticed Abhimanyu struggling with his car. He cursed under his breath as the engine refused to start.

From the driveway, Raman called out, "Abhi, what's going on? You're going to be late for the airport."

Abhimanyu sighed. "No, thank you, Mr. Murthy. You might have work on the way. I'll manage."

Raman, getting exasperated, retorted, "Abhi, don't be stubborn. Just get in!"

But Abhimanyu stood firm. "Exactly! You will be late, not me. I'll figure it out."

Nandini, watching from the gate, shook her head and called out, "Bhai, please. You both will get late. Just go together."

Abhimanyu sighed. "Nandini, I don't want to trouble him."

She softened her voice. "Bhai, please. Just for me?"

Abhimanyu hesitated before finally relenting. He got into Raman's car. As they drove off, Abhimanyu turned back to Nandini, "Take care."

She smiled, waving. "You too, bhaiya."

Both Mumbai and Bangalore airports buzzed with the presence of media personnel, cameras flashing and reporters clamoring for statements. The Malhotras and the Murthys—two of the most influential families—were both traveling, sparking a wave of curiosity.

The Murthys, prominent business tycoons of Mumbai, and the Malhotras, leading industrialists of Bangalore, had long been pillars of power in their respective cities. Decades ago, Raj Malhotra and Raman Murthy had been the closest of friends, but life had taken them on separate journeys after marriage. Now, after thirty years, the two families were set to reunite, and their sons were accompanying them.

Excitement crackled in the air, and the press was eager to capture the moment when the past and present would finally collide.