An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 25

Cabir stepped out into the garden, determined to carry out the plan that had been discussed. He knew how crucial it was to make the Vermas believe that Manik and Nandini were no longer together. Time was of the essence, and there was no room for mistakes.

Back inside, Raj, Manik, and Cabir were deep in discussion, trying to ensure everything went smoothly. Despite their best efforts, Manik was on edge. The weight of the situation pressed down on him, and he couldn't seem to shake the worry.

Raj, sensing Manik's unease, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Manik, beta, don't worry. We are all in this together. There won't be any mistakes. And even if the priest is part of the plan, there's no way it'll lead to a real marriage."

Manik gave a small nod but didn't seem fully convinced. His phone rang, cutting through the tension. It was Nandini. He excused himself from the conversation quickly.

"Hi, what are you doing?" Manik asked, his voice softening when he heard her voice.

Nandini smiled as she responded. "Not much. What about you?"

Manik rubbed his forehead, frustration evident in his voice. "Dad came up with a plan to let the Vermas know that we're not together anymore. Once they know, they'll probably come over with their daughter, and we can keep everything going."

Nandini's voice was calm, but there was a hint of concern in it. "Oh, so they'll be here today?"

"Yeah, most likely. They won't waste any time once they know about the supposed breakup," Manik replied, feeling the pressure of the situation mounting.

Nandini hesitated before speaking again. "Manik... what if you actually end up liking Soha?"

Manik paused, surprised by her words. "What are you saying?"

"I mean, it's possible, right?" Nandini said, her voice laced with teasing. "You don't want to be too nice to her, right?"

Manik chuckled lightly. "You're worrying too much. I'm not going to like anyone else. I love you, Nandini. That's the only truth I know."

Nandini smiled, feeling the warmth in his words. "I know you love me, but what if things go differently? What if the whole plan doesn't work out the way we want it to?"

Manik's voice softened, the sincerity clear. "Trust me, nothing is going to happen. And if things go wrong, we'll figure it out. I'm not going to marry Soha, okay? We'll make sure of that."

There was a pause, and Nandini's voice became playful again. "Fine. But don't think Soha's mehendi will have your name written on it that easily."

Manik chuckled. "Oh, you'll make sure it doesn't, right?"

Nandini smiled, teasing him. "Of course, I will. You're mine."

Manik's smile was full of warmth. "Good. Now stop worrying so much. Go, take care of things. I'll be here."

Nandini's voice softened again. "Okay, I trust you. I love you."

"I love you too," Manik replied before hanging up.

As he stood there, a wave of relief washed over him. The plan was risky, but together, they would make it work.