Waltz of Hummingbirds

9.Let's make it Legal

"The ceremony at the resort holds no value", Sonal explained, "neither legal nor any other grounds. Except for emotional value". "Which both parties don't hold here", Vivaan added his two cents. Despite her stoic attitude, he managed to pull a soft smirk from her

Mehek was aware of Sonal's capability. Today perhaps she seemed to be enjoying because she is running the show skilfully. But what surprised her was that a big shot like Vivaan was so keen to be involved. She wondered why he was so interested in his employee's personal life. Perhaps he was closer to Mr. Ahlawat, although he was under his payroll. 

As Mehek observed closer, she realised that may be Vivaan was trying to impress Sonal, subtly. She smiled to herself. Mr Kapoor is indeed a good catch but he didn't look like a relationship person. He is more of a fun guy. She wished her friend would not except more to get hurt, if she gives into his charms. Because Vivaan is not definitely Shaurya. She started to shake her head involuntarily. "Is there a problem, Ms. Maan?", Shaurya asked, then corrected quickly, "I mean Mehek".

Shaurya and Mehek had decided that they will start addressing one another with their first names, even when they were in privacy of indoors. It will help them to get familiarise to act informal. They decided not to be privy while maintaining discretion to avoid further scandal. Although Shaurya didnot seemed to be in favour of being friends with her, he agreed that they need to build mutual respect & trust amidst each other to play their act.

"Are you okay with the terms, Mehek?", Shaurya asked again. She realised her blunder, "Pardon me. Sonal , can you repeat the last sentence", she tried to cover up. Sonal cleared her throat and explained, "By signing this contract, both parties are lawfully married to one another until either or one of you decides to end it". "Last chance to withdraw my friends", Vivaan humoured, "you will be married in actual as soon as you sign these documents".

"Can you explain the terms of separation?", Shaurya asked Sonal. Mehek grimaced as he callously mentioned about their divorce when his friend has just implied about their marriage. It seemed like Shaurya was eager to know about the exit clauses than the entry. "Contract is not time bound", Sonal announced. "Better to keep such theatrics to daily soaps", Vivaan tried to lighten the mood while explaining clearly, "even if contract is out in public, it won't cause any scandals. Nowadays, it is quite common amongst married couples to protect their assets and interests". 

Sonal nodded and continued, "you both have feasibility to end this contract whenever you chose. Not even a year is needed. On separation, Mr. Ahlawat will have no claims on any property or wealth of Ms. Maan". "And vice versa", Vivaan added firmly, "Ms. Maan also is not entitled to anything that my friend owns. No alimony. No compensation". Sonal nodded but from her smug expression  her side was clear. What would a rich heiress want from a common man? Still she appreciated Vivaan's effort to ensure safety of his friend. She pointed out the sections where all details were mentioned.

"What about children?', Shaurya asked stoically. Vivaan, Sonal and Mehek gasped in unison  Before Mehek could spoil the scene, Sonal intervened. "Mr. Ahlawat, although I appreciate your concern, the possibility of.....", she turned crimson while trying to find apt word, "Possibility of coitus, henceforth seems to be.....bleak". Vivaan suppressed his grin while enjoying predicament both ladies. Mehek seemed to be shaken while Sonal was looked like blushing teenage girl. 

Mehek spoke vehemently, "I believe it is already clear that we will not be a conventional couple even after signing this contract. The possibility of having kids is preposterous". However, Vivaan was also keen about his friend's sudden inclination. As he expected, Shaurya remained calm and cool, "I agree about future. But what if a child is already consumed", he turned to Mehek, "are you sure that you are not pregnant yet?".