jasveer

Part 7 Visit hometown

Meanwhile, Rohit hastily adjusted his half-open attire before answering the door. Jasveer quickly adjusted his saree, smoothing out the wrinkles, and pulled the pallu over his face into a proper ghunghat (Vail) before emerging from the bedroom.

As Rohit opened the door and greeted his mother, Sunita, she entered with a happy expression. "Good news, everyone," she announced cheerfully, "The government has assured us that the riots have completely subsided now."

Jasveer felt a wave of relief wash over him, "I need to visit my family," he said, his voice carrying the weight of the past harrowing weeks. "It's been a tough time for them too, and they must be worried sick about me."

Sunita nodded in understanding. "You're right, Jasveer. Your family needs to see you, to know that you're safe."

"But how do I change back and leave without raising suspicion?" Jasveer asked, concerned about the neighbors and the delicate situation they still found themselves in.

Sunita pondered for a moment before suggesting, "You and Rohit should leave from here as husband and wife. We'll tell the neighbors that Rohit is going to drop Jiya at her mother's place. You can change back to Jasveer in between the journey after leaving Delhi, before you reach home."

Jasveer considered the plan and said. "It's a great idea. And after we leave, we can inform everyone that Jiya isn't coming back and the marriage is canceled."

The next day, Jasveer dressed once more as Jiya, with Sunita's help. He wore a nicely embroidered red saree, and they completed the look with all the necessary accessories. They made their way through the neighborhood, telling inquisitive neighbors that Jiya was going to visit her family. The cover story worked perfectly, and no one suspected a thing.

Once they were far enough from the city and certain they were out of sight, Jasveer and Rohit found a secluded spot where Jasveer could change back into his own clothes. The transformation was quick and seamless. Jasveer looked at his reflection, relieved to see his true self again, yet feeling a strange sense of nostalgia for the persona of Jiya that had become a part of him.

When Jasveer arrived home, his family welcomed him with open arms and tearful smiles. The reunion was filled with joy and gratitude, a stark contrast to the fear and uncertainty that had dominated the past month. Jasveer's father, deeply appreciative of Rohit's efforts to protect his son, presented him with a small but meaningful gift.

"Thank you for saving my son's life," Jasveer's father said, his voice thick with emotion.

Rohit accepted the gift graciously and spent the night with Jasveer's family. The next day, he prepared to return to Delhi, leaving Jasveer to spend a few more weeks at home.

One evening, Jasveer sat on the roof with his mother, the cool wind blowing gently. The tension of the past month had slowly begun to lift, but the memories were still fresh.

"Ma, I was so close to losing my life that day," Jasveer began, his voice trembling slightly. "When the mob came, I was terrified. I couldn't move, couldn't think. But Rohit... he appeared out of nowhere. He pulled me to safety, risking not just his life but his mother's as well."

His mother placed a comforting hand on his arm, her eyes filled with gratitude and concern. "Waheguru bless Rohit," she murmured. "May all his wishes be fulfilled for the bravery and kindness he showed."

Jasveer nodded, a sudden realization hitting him. Rohit had an old wish of getting intimate, a favor he had even asked Jiya for just a day before Jasveer was to return to his hometown.

As he sat there, Jasveer took a deep breath. He understood the depth of Rohit's commitment and the intensity of their bond.

"Ma," he said softly, "not all wishes, but I think I can fulfill one of his wishes for sure."

His mother looked at him curiously. "What do you mean, beta?"

Jasveer smiled, a determined glint in his eye. "Rohit asked something of me before I left Delhi. At the time, I wasn't sure, but now... now I know what I need to do. When I return to Delhi, I will fulfill his wish. It's the least I can do for someone who saved my life and protected me with such courage."

His mother nodded slowly, understanding the unspoken resolve in her son's words. She pulled him into a gentle embrace, whispering a prayer for his well-being and the strength to honor his promise.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Jasveer felt ready to face whatever lay ahead. He would return to Delhi, not just to continue his studies, but to fulfill the promise he had made in his heart-to honor the friendship and sacrifice that had saved his life.