An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 5

Nandini and Naira returned, both feeling exhausted. They saw Ishita, Raman, Raj, and Nyonika sitting in the garden. Naira went and sat between Raman and Ishita, while Nandini, lost in her thoughts about Naira, realized how much she would miss her. Naira had always been the most pampered child, and her absence would definitely be felt. Nyonika noticed Nandini's inner turmoil and understood her unspoken emotions.

Nyonika: "Nandini, dear, come here. Are you feeling unwell?"

Nandini: "No, aunty, just a slight headache."

Nyonika: "Come, let me give you a nice massage. I do it for Manik and Cabir, and it really helps."

Nandini sat with her head resting on Nyonika's lap. Nyonika had always wished for a daughter, but after Manik, she faced complications and they never planned for another child. Manik was aware of this. Nyonika had always shown love to Mukti and Alya, but she never felt that deep, motherly connection with them. However, with Nandini, it was different—she felt an instant bond, a protective love for her, and Nandini appreciated her company. After giving her a massage, Nyonika noticed Nandini had fallen asleep. Naira had already gone to her room, and Abhimanyu took Nandini upstairs. Everyone called it a night and went to bed. Nyonika shared her feelings with Ishita, and Ishita reassured her that Nandini was their daughter too, deserving of a mother's love.

Three hours later, at 3:00 a.m., Nandini woke up feeling hungry as she had missed dinner. She went downstairs to get some fried rice and went to the terrace, where she found Manik sitting with a cup of coffee, lost in his thoughts. Nandini joined him, but Manik didn't notice her at first.

Nandini: "Why didn't you tell me?"

Manik: "What?"

Nandini: "That you're Manik Malhotra? Why didn't you tell me you're Raj uncle's son?"

Manik: "Was it necessary? I thought it wasn't important, and I wanted to surprise you. Are you surprised?"

Nandini: "I am... for sure. So, what are you thinking?"

Manik: "I was thinking about you. Abhimanyu's comment earlier seemed to affect you."

Nandini: "I was, but we sorted it out."

Manik: "Good to hear!"

Nandini: "Thank you. By the way, how's the 'Live to Love' project going? How are the old age homes and orphanages doing?"

Manik: "They're doing well. I'm focusing more on them, actually. I was thinking about that just now. Wait, WHAT? How do you know I work with them?"

Nandini: "You underestimated me, Mr. Malhotra. I'm involved in these works too, so I have an idea about it."

Manik: "What all do you do? First restaurants, then hospitals, and now this. How do you manage?"

Nandini: "When you believe in yourself and give your all to your work, God helps you too. You do the same with your interior business, and even with everything else, you still manage to do it."

Manik: "Hmm."

Nandini: "So...?"

Manik: "So, what were you thinking when I came here?"

Nandini: "Manik... (after a pause) I don't know what I feel for you. But there's always been this connection. Maybe I like you. It's not love yet, but I'm definitely impressed. Don't expect an answer from me, just finish your fried rice."

Nandini: "Oh, I completely forgot about this, but Manik, the feeling is mutual. You're a good person. I don't know what to say." (She starts eating)

Manik chuckles.