Khushi stepped out of her room at Garima's shout, her curiosity piqued but her lips sealed. Moments later, Shashi arrived, tension etching his face. Unable to hold back, she asked,
"What happened, Babuji?" He urged her not to worry and began knocking on Sheetal's door. When she didn't respond, his panic mirrored Garima's, who continued banging relentlessly.
Suddenly, the door swung open on its own. They realized it hadn't been locked from inside and rushed in, only to freeze in shock. Sheetal was gone. They searched frantically, hearts pounding, until Garima's phone buzzed with a message.
Her daughter's words glared back:
"Sorry, Mom, I couldn't go through with this marriage. I've never dreamed of being a housewife. I wanted to be big and got that lifetime opportunity. I couldn't lose it because of this fucking marriage."
Dizziness swept over Garima as she read. Shashi snatched the phone, reading it aloud. Khushi gasped, her breath catching. Shashi turned on Garima, his voice a roar.
"How could she do this to her family?"
He shifted to Khushi, his tone softening with love. "Khushi, meri bachchi! I've never asked you for anything before. But today, I'm asking a favor from you, bitiya. Will you please listen to me?"
Before Khushi could respond, Garima cried out, realizing his intent, "What are you doing, Shashi ji? Why did you call her here?"Shashi faced her with forced calm.
"No, I'm not going to listen to you - not anymore. You and your daughter has done enough and now it's time I do what is right. So, stop your shouting and let me do what I want to do. And You're wrong. I didn't call her. She was already here while you mourned your dear daughter's act. That's why you didn't notice. Waise bhi, when did you ever notice her?" His sarcasm stung.
"Now, listen carefully. Your daughter did what she shouldn't have! Now like I said before, everything will happen my way now, understand? I don't want a word from you. If you speak, it'll be your last day here. She's left the family in a bind. I'll throw you out before everyone." His threat hung heavy.
