Unfated

Chapter 3

'Naina, Rohit is a nice boy. Your Ratan Mamu of Kohlapur, the boy is his student and he is all praises for him. He's an MBA!' Mamma said with full enthusiasm.

'And we have also seen the boy in Rupali's wedding! He's as fair as milk!' Dadi said dramatically, annoying me further.

I looked up from my phone. 'Are you two done?' I asked, getting frustrated. 'How long did I tell you, I'm not interested in marriage as of now?'

The two ladies looked at each other. 'Naina, we aren't telling you to marry him right now. Just see him once.' Mamma said.

I sighed looking away. 'Why mamma? Am I being such big a burden on you all now?' I asked as a drop of tear escaped my eyes.

'Naina...!' Mamma said surprised.

'Hare Krishna! What are you talking about, dear?' Daadi said.

'Naina, children can never be burdens on their family, no matter what!' Mamma said, getting emotional. 'I was just suggesting you something and you...' she started crying.

Oh no!

I shifted near my mother. 'Mamma..please.. I didn't mean to hurt you. I know how much you all love me.' I said, looking at Dadi with a puppy dog smile.

'But, I really need to fix things before I decide to get married. Please... give me some time.' I pleaded.

Dadi held mamma's hands. 'You heard her. Guess we cannot bring this up in next six months.' she sighed.

You mean, next six days...

I shook my head.

I don't know which astrologer brainwashed them and told I have the best 'vivah yoga' going on.

'Okay, Naina.' Mamma wiped her eyes. 'I won't force you for anything. It's just that Janakesh Baba's words never go in vain.' she said, childishly.

'Hmm..' I cupped her face and scoffed. 'And did you ask him about my job and all?' I asked, knowing the answer.

Mamma's eyes widened and she looked at Dadi for aid.

'Uh...weren't you preparing for tomorrow's interview, dear?' she said, showing her wit. 'I'll get you some badam milk. That'll help you memorize.' Dadi stood up from the chair across my bed. 'Nandu...come help me. Let's not disturb her.' she said and mamma nodded immediately.

'Yeah.. right. Prepare for the interview, Naina..' Mamma ruffled my hair and both the ladies escaped my room.

I chuckled.

What a brilliant strategy!

^^^

The Next Day

I got out of the building with a sigh. The interview wasn't a bad one. But, I personally feel I could've done better. I put the files inside my bag and switched on my phone.

It was 3 pm. Papa wanted to come with me but the office wasn't too far from my place. Moreover, there was an India-Srilanka Cricket match today and I knew how much he wanted to watch.

The company was, perhaps, the best for Floriculture in the state. I walked near the garden area. Beautiful collection of roses, tulips, lilies and carnations they had.

My eyes immediately fell on the Rosa rubiginosa, a.k.a. the purest breed of red rose.

I smiled seeing the flower after a long time. We had those growing in our school garden.