Rhythms of the Heart ✅

33

Months had crawled by since Malang had vanished from Neel's life. Every attempt to find him had hit a dead end, leaving Neel drowning in a sea of guilt and regret. He hadn't gotten the chance to confess his feelings, and now Malang was gone.

Dinner at the Oberoi household was a tense affair. Mr. Oberoi, a stern-faced man with a booming voice, was expressing his desire for Neel to take a more active role in the family business. While the Oberoi parents had always supported Neel's passion for dance, Mr. Oberoi believed it was time for his son to embrace their legacy.

"Neel," Mr. Oberoi boomed, spearing a piece of steak with his fork, "there's an upcoming business conference in Paris next month. Unfortunately, a prior engagement will prevent me from attending."

Neel's stomach clenched. He wasn't interested in business conferences or board meetings. His heart belonged to the dance floor, not the corporate world.

"However," Mr. Oberoi continued, his gaze fixed on Neel, "I believe you'd be the perfect candidate to represent Oberoi Enterprises. You'll have the opportunity to network with influential CEOs, and who knows, you might even discover a hidden passion for business."

Neel stole a glance at his mother, Mrs. Oberoi. Her eyes held a pleading look, a silent request for him to consider his father's offer. He knew how much this meant to her, and a part of him wanted to please her.

"It's a great opportunity, Neel," Mrs. Oberoi chimed in, her voice a gentle caress. "Think about it. Paris is a beautiful city, and you could even take Rihanna with you."

Neel's heart sank at the mention of his sister. Rihanna, with her bubbly personality and penchant for drama, was the last person he wanted on a business trip.

As if sensing his apprehension, Rihanna spoke up, a hint of disappointment veiled in her sweet smile. "Oh, Mom, that's so kind, but I have a lot of work at college this semester. Maybe next time, right Neel?"

Neel offered a weak smile, but his relief was overshadowed by a flicker of something unsettling in Rihanna's eyes. As she speared her salad with uncharacteristic force, a spark of jealousy and anger ignited within her, unnoticed by anyone else.
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On the other side of the city, in the opulent Agarwal mansion, Malang sat surrounded by luxury that felt increasingly hollow. Sanjana and Veer, his ever-supportive sister-in-law and brother, had tried everything to lift his spirits. Yet, a dull ache persisted in his heart. He'd resigned himself to accepting his fate, abandoning his dreams of music and dance. It was a decision fueled by his father's harsh words and a misguided attempt to find a semblance of stability.

"Music wasn't just a dream, Malang, it was your passion," Sanjana said softly, her voice laced with concern. They were seated in the sprawling living room, sunlight streaming through the ornate windows.

Malang forced a smile, the weight of his decision heavy on his shoulders. "I know, Bhabhi," he mumbled, "but sometimes reality bites. Music won't put a roof over my head or pay the bills."

Veer, a man with a kind heart and sharp mind, placed a comforting hand on Malang's shoulder. "Are you sure about this, Malang? There's no pressure on you. You know Dad can be...well, Dad."

Before Malang could respond, his father, Mr. Agarwal, boomed from the doorway. "What are you all whispering about? Is Malang finally ready to embrace his future?"

Malang flinched at his father's tone, but before he could answer, Sanjana interjected. "Malang has decided to take an interest in the family business, Mr. Agarwal. He's very enthusiastic!"

A rare smile spread across Mr. Agarwal's face. "Enthusiastic, eh? Excellent! Veer, you'll be taking him under your wing, of course. Teach him the ropes of business, show him the real world."

Veer exchanged a worried glance with Sanjana. He knew his father's "teaching" methods could be harsh, bordering on cruel. "But Dad," he started, "Malang doesn't have any experience-"

Mr. Agarwal cut him off with a dismissive wave of his hand. "He'll learn, won't you son?" he said, turning to Malang.

Malang felt a trap closing around him. He mustered a small smile. "Yes, Father. I'm eager to learn."

Sanjana, seeing the forced cheer masking Malang's sadness, decided to intervene. "Perhaps," she suggested gently, "Malang could start with the basics before diving headfirst into complex deals. He wouldn't want to disappoint you, would you, Malang?"

Mr. Agarwal stroked his chin, considering this. "Hmm, a good point, Sanjana. Alright, fine. Veer, start Malang with some introductory courses and shadowing. But make sure he understands the responsibility that comes with this."

Malang offered a small, sad smile. He knew his mother and Veer were trying to shield him from the worst of his father's expectations. Despite his decision, a part of him yearned for the freedom and joy he'd found in music. But for now, he would play the role of the dutiful son, hoping one day to carve out some space for his own dreams, even if they seemed like a distant melody fading into the background.

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..... ❤️.....