Chapter 7: Preparations for Mandeep's Arrival

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Scene: Local market, afternoon.

With Mandeep's visit looming just two days away, Ashu finds himself in the bustling market, accompanied by his mother Gurpreet. The mission? To buy a wardrobe suitable for "Ashika."

Gurpreet: (smiling) Let's start with some dresses, Ashika.

Ashu reluctantly follows his mother into a clothing store, where racks of colorful dresses greet them.

Ashu: (under his breath) This is going to be a long day.

Gurpreet holds up a flowery dress, examining it.

Gurpreet: What do you think of this one, Ashika?

Ashu: (uncertain) Um, sure, I guess.

As Ashu tries on dress after dress, he fumbles with zippers, buttons, and ties. The feeling of fabric against his skin is foreign, and he awkwardly adjusts the lengths to avoid tripping over them.

Ashu: (whispering) This feels so strange.

Gurpreet: (encouraging) You'll get used to it, beta.

The shopping continues, and Ashu's patience wanes as he's made to try on skirts, blouses, and tops in various shades and patterns. Each outfit elicits a sigh or an eye roll from him.

Ashu: (exasperated) Seriously, Mom, how many more outfits are we going to try?

Gurpreet: (playfully) Just a few more, Ashika.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, they move on to selecting casual and party wear outfits. Ashu's skepticism turns to genuine interest as he considers outfits he would never have thought of wearing before.

Gurpreet: (smiling) Look at you, Ashika. You're turning into quite the fashionista.

Ashu: (surprised) Yeah, well, it's not like I had a choice in the matter.

The sun starts to dip below the horizon, and they leave the market with several bags in hand.

Gurpreet: (patting his back) You did well today, Ashika.

Ashu: (grinning) Thanks, Mom. But I'm glad we're done for the day.

As they walk home, Ashu reflects on thewhirlwind of shopping. He may have complained and grumbled, but a small part ofhim feels a strange sense of accomplishment, having navigated a world he neverthought he'd enter. And as the days edge closer to Mandeep's arrival, Ashufinds himself both anxious and curious about how this charade will play out

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