Months after tragedy hit her family, Meera is trying to bring her life slowly back to normal. But as it turns out, life isn't ready to leave her in peace just yet. This girl from Delhi is informed that she isn't even who she has always thought herse...
"I don't care what Papa Ji says. I don't trust these people. I want you home today."
It had taken a lot of time to calm my hysterical mother but though calm she was resolute on having me back.
" But Mom, if dadu trusts these people, maybe they are worthy of our trust too since you know dadu never blindly trusts anyone," I reasoned. " besides think of the other aspects of this. This offer is almost too good to be true."
It turns out that, Vikram had called dadu as soon as they borrowed me. Dadu had threatened to kill him, obviously. But after giving him probably the same reasoning that the decision should be left to me, dadu had surprisingly enough agreed to let me stay.
As much, as he had said to me on call.
This is not the best time for me to tell you all, Meera. But I promise that when I see you I'll tell you everything. Till then I leave it to you to decide your fate, you can stay there or come back. It's up to you. I know you'll be safe there, Vikram is my brother and despite our differences, I trust him with my life and with yours.
" That is exactly what I'm saying, it is too good to be true, Meera," she pleaded again on the other side of the phone.
So it went on for an hour. But finally, I managed to persuade her to let me stay. And probably mummy was right, maybe it was too good to be true. But I can't simply let such an opportunity go. I have nothing to lose and so much to gain. Then why let decades-old sibling rivalry get in the middle of a chance to have a life of luxury?
But still, I must proceed with caution. And as I lay awake till the early hours of the morning, as usual, I formulated my battle plan to make sure it's only I who wins.
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The room was tense, all eyes trained on me.
I sat on the single sofa while both Vikram and Padmini sat in front of me on the couch. Both of their faces were intent, one uncertain and the other sceptical.
We were in their living room which as of now, since I haven't seen much of the haveli, is my favourite. The ceiling was intricately carved in the shape of vines and buds, inlaid with semi-precious stones, the walls following a similar pattern, in sync with the amaranth and white theme. The furniture too, despite being antique and regal had a homely and welcoming feel to it. But the best part, was a tiger's head mounted above the door.
"So," I began, "I've made my decision." And folded my hands in front of me and looked Vikram straight in the eye.
"I will be your next of kin."
The result was instantaneous. Vikram's face lit up like New Year's sky, and Padmini huffed out the breath she had been holding on to for far too long.
Vikram got up and enclosed my hands between his warm and wrinkled ones. His eyes shined with so much gratitude and happiness that I couldn't help but smile.
