OPPOSITES: S.GILL

1- epilogue

I never really understood the hype for cricket as a kid. It was a fully men-dominated sport that didn't sit right with me. Talk about being a feminist. Can women not do the same things as men? It was just another sport, like baseball or basketball. It was also related to a traumatic memory, which added to the tension. My late father put me in classes when I was younger, along with my brother Abhishek. As expected, I absolutely sucked at the sport, while Abhi was a natural and went on to play for the Gujarat Titans. The expectations were always set high for me, the youngest, Ilaya Sharma

What I loved to do was dance. Dance was my life, twenty-four-seven. The rhythm, beats, and idea of musical notation resonated with my heart. I was also the internationally ranked first-place dancer in the world.

Cricket was just that sport that all the drunk Indian uncles watched at those large family gatherings and, of course, politics. You would never see a woman on the screen except for a player's wife, and in my stubborn mind, that was not right.

But I would never know that my opinion on cricket would change with just one man in my heart.

***************

As the limo rolled to a stop in front of the grand estate, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness flutter in my stomach. It had been a while since I visited, and the anticipation was palpable with Abhishek's wedding around the corner. I glanced down at Jihan, my golden retriever, who wagged his tail enthusiastically, sensing the buzz in the air.

"Alright, love. Let's go meet everyone," I said, reassuringly patting him on the shoulder.

The chauffeur opened the door, and I stepped out, immediately greeted by a sea of familiar and unfamiliar faces. The estate was abuzz with activity, relatives milling about, servants hurrying to and fro with decorations, and the air filled with the scent of marigolds and roses.

"Ilaya, beta! How have you been? Eating well?" Mummy rushed towards me, her face lighting up joyfully as she cupped my cheeks.

"All is well, Mummy. Have you been taking care of yourself? Not getting too stressed?" I asked, concerned as always about her well-being.

"Yes, beta. I'm so happy you are here. How is America?" Mummy's eyes twinkled with pride and relief.

"Boring," I replied with a playful grin, causing her to chuckle.

"And who is this handsome boy?" Mummy leaned down to pet Jihan, who licked her hand eagerly.

"This is Jihan. He's been keeping me company and sane during my studies," I introduced, smiling as Jihan basked in the attention.

"He's adorable!" Mummy cooed, scratching behind his ears.

At that moment, Diya's parents approached us, and I straightened up, knowing these were my brother's future in-laws whom I hadn't yet met.

"Ilaya, this is Diya's mother, Mrs. Kapoor, and her father, Mr. Kapoor," Mummy introduced warmly.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Kapoor. It's a pleasure to meet you finally," I greeted them with a polite smile, extending my hand.

"Nice to meet you too, Ilaya. We've heard so much about you," Mrs. Kapoor said with a kind smile, shaking my hand.

"All good things, I hope," I joked lightly, trying to ease the initial tension.

"Of course! Abhishek speaks very highly of you," Mr. Kapoor nodded.

"Thank you. I'm really excited to be here and to meet everyone finally," I said, feeling genuinely welcome.

"Come inside, beta. Freshen up, and we'll catch up more later," Mummy urged, leading me towards the house.

As we entered the house, the familiar sounds and smells of home enveloped me, bringing back a flood of memories. Mummy guided me through the bustling hallway, where relatives greeted me with warm smiles and welcoming words. Jihan seemed to be a hit, receiving pets and praise from everyone he passed.

"Ilaya, you remember your Auntie Kajol, don't you?" Mummy asked, stopping to introduce me to a woman with kind eyes and a wide smile.

"Of course! Hi, Auntie Kajol," I greeted her with a hug.

"It's been too long, dear. And who is this lovely boy?" Auntie Kajol bent down to pet Jihan, who was soaking up all the attention.

"This is Jihan, my study buddy and companion," I introduced him proudly.

"Well, he's a charmer, that's for sure," she laughed, giving him one last pat before we moved on.

As we continued down the hallway, I could hear the sound of laughter and lively conversation coming from the large living room. We entered the room to find a group of relatives chatting and enjoying snacks.

"Ilaya, you must be tired from your journey. Let me show you to your room," Mummy suggested, gently touching my arm.

"Thank you, Mummy. That would be great," I agreed, feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the activity.

As we went upstairs, I heard a familiar voice call out behind us.

"Ilaya! Wait up!" I turned to see Abhishek bounding up the stairs with a big grin.

"Abhi!" I exclaimed, running to give him a hug. He lifted me off my feet in a bear hug, and I laughed, feeling a rush of happiness.

"It's so good to see you, little sis," he said, calming me down.

"You too, Bhai. And congratulations!" I said, my heart swelling with pride and joy for him.

"Thanks. I can't wait for you to meet Diya properly. She's amazing," he said, his eyes lighting up at the mention of his fiancée.

"I'm looking forward to it," I replied sincerely.

"Ilaya, your room is just down the hall. You can freshen up and then join us for some tea," Mummy said, guiding me to a cozy guest room with a lovely garden view.

"Thanks, Mummy. I'll be down in a bit," I said, setting my bag down and giving Jihan a quick pat before heading to the bathroom.

After freshening up, I changed into a comfortable kurta and leggings, tying my hair into a loose bun. Jihan settled down on the rug, looking as content as ever. I checked my reflection one last time before heading downstairs.

When I returned to the living room, I found Abhishek chatting with Diya and her parents. Diya looked stunning in a simple yet elegant sari, her eyes lighting up when she saw me.

"Ilaya! So good to finally meet you." Diya said, coming over to hug me.

"You too, Diya. Congratulations on the engagement," I replied, hugging her back.

"Thank you! I'm so glad you're here. We've heard so much about you," she said, her smile genuine.

"All good things, I hope," I said laughing.

"Absolutely," she assured me.

As we settled into the comfortable living room chairs, Diya's parents joined the conversation, and I found myself feeling more and more at ease. The warmth and hospitality of the family made me feel welcome, and I couldn't help but be excited for the upcoming celebrations.

"Ilaya, we were just talking about the sangeet. I heard you're performing?" Diya asked, her eyes sparkling with interest.

"Yes, I am. I'm really excited about it," I said, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation.

"That's wonderful! I've heard you're an incredible dancer. I can't wait to see you perform," Diya said, her enthusiasm infectious.

"I hope I live up to the expectations," I replied, feeling a surge of determination.

As we continued to chat and laugh, the initial nervousness I felt melted away, replaced by a sense of belonging and excitement for the days ahead. Surrounded by family and newfound friends, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the love and support that enveloped me.

Later that evening, as the sun began to set and the preparations for the wedding continued, I found myself standing on the balcony, taking in the serene beauty of the estate. Jihan sat beside me, his head resting on my knee as I stroked his fur.

"Ready for all the chaos, Jihan?" I asked him softly, feeling a sense of calm wash over me.

Jihan wagged his tail in response, and I smiled, feeling a deep sense of contentment. No matter what lay ahead, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be, surrounded by love, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings.