In a distant marriage with her brooding husband, Ayan, Adira Khanna has resigned herself to a mundane life. However, fate has different plans when Ayan's childhood friends plan a week-long trip to Goa. Little did Adira know that this vacation would...
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Chapter 1
This is why we can't have nice things
ADIRA
I felt like a fool-a complete ass fool.
The rain was pouring down in sheets as I walked down the street, my hair and clothes drenched. I clutched the bouquet of roses and my handbag tightly to my chest, trying to protect them from the rain. The petals were already starting to droop, but today was meant to be special.
I had been planning this moment for weeks, and I wasn't going to let a little rain ruin it. Today was my husband's birthday. Despite my overly busy schedule, I made time especially for him. The plan was simple-nothing over the top, just a dinner at his favourite restaurant. But the rain is not my point of worry; it's actually my husband, Ayan Khanna.
As I walked down the street, I couldn't help but think about Ayan. He was always late for everything, and I knew that he would be late for our dinner tonight. But that was just who he was, and I liked him for it. At the beginning, our marriage seemed like a path of thorns. But gradually, we developed a sense of serene mutual understanding.
I reflected on my experiences and observations, realizing that love, while a beautiful emotion, wasn't the only thing that mattered in a marriage. I understood that sometimes it's essential to prioritize understanding and the happiness of those around us.
I smiled as I thought about all the times he had been late in the past. He would always have some excuse or another, but I knew that he was just forgetful. It was one of his many quirks that made him so endearing. And every time he made it up to me in some way, whether it was a gift, an apology, or simply a warm hug that melted away any frustration I might have had.
I had grown up with the image of my parents in a loving and affectionate marriage, and I had always hoped for the same kind of connection in my own life. But as soon as I grew up as an adult, I went on very few dates, and the idea of a passionate love affair seemed like something reserved for the characters in the novels I read. Instead, I knew that my marriage would be a practical decision taken by my parents based on family alliances. It turned out that the reality of an arranged marriage was vastly different from the love story I had envisioned.
As I turned the corner, I saw the restaurant up ahead. It was a small place, but it had always been his favourite. The smell of garlic and spices wafted out onto the street, making my stomach growl.
I stepped inside and was greeted by the warm glow of candlelight. The restaurant was empty except for a few other diners, but I didn't mind. It meant that Ayan and I would have the place to ourselves.
I took a seat at our usual table and waited for him to arrive. As the minutes ticked by, I started to worry that he wouldn't show up at all.
Stop fretting, Adira! He will arrive soon. It's his birthday after all.
