FORCED TO HATE

Chapter 5

The next day began with the usual morning bustle in the household. Lavanya woke up early, a habit ingrained in her. She quickly freshened up and slipped into her favorite churidaar, a soft pastel blue outfit that was both comfortable and traditional. After getting dressed, she headed to the prayer room where everyone was present as usual. Sans Khushi.

She folded her hands and closed her eyes, offering her prayers sincerely. The fragrance of incense sticks filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere. After finishing her prayers, she joined the family for breakfast. Her badi maa and maa were setting the table with a variety of dishes – parathas, chutneys, and fresh fruit. Lavanya started enjoying a hearty breakfast, chatting with her family.

Meanwhile, Khushi’s morning was quite different. Though they both studied at the same college, with Lavanya pursuing Fine Arts and Khushi focusing on Business Administration. Their routines were entirely different. Khushi woke up later than Lavanya and took her time getting ready.After a quick shower, she opted for casual jeans and a shirt, a practical yet stylish choice. She then headed to the dining room, where the family was having breakfast. She grabbed a bowl of fruit and sat down, avoiding the heavier dishes.

"Good morning, Khushi," Radha greeted her with a warm smile.

"Morning, Maa," Khushi replied, taking a bite of an apple.

"Don't you want a proper breakfast?" Radha asked, concerned.

"I'm fine with just fruit, thank you," Khushi replied, her tone polite but distant. She preferred to keep her meals light and simple, especially in the morning.

Arvind glanced at Khushi with a frown. "Khushi, you're getting thinner every day. You need to eat properly."

Radha nodded in agreement. "I’ll make your favorite food for dinner tonight."

"Yeah please, make all her favorite, haven't seen her eating well from a long time" Said Arvind to his wife

Khushi offered a fake smile, which Arnav noticed immediately. He eyed Khushi and teased, "Actually daddy, the matter is some people eat a lot but they just don't put on the weight."

Everyone laughed, and Khushi huffed in response.

Before khushi could say something he shifted the conversation "Look at Lavanya," Arnav continued. "Look how she's eating but she still stays slim."

Lavanya pouted. "Bhai, please."

"Don't eye on my daughter's food. She doesn't eat a lot," Radha defended.

"Thanks Badimaa" Lavanya side hugged Radha

Shaili chimed in, "Actually Arnav is right. Lavanya should change her eating habits, not eat so fast in less time."

Arnav grinned, "arrey, I was complimenting Chachi. Look how beautiful she looks even after whatever she eats." He then glanced at Khushi and winked at her without anyone noticing. Khushi glared at him, understanding his playful tease.

"What's wrong, Bhai? Why are you buttering me up so much?" Lavanya smiled.

Arnav smirked and replied, "Oh, you know me, Lavanya. Just trying to spread some sweetness around. After all, a little butter never hurts anyone." He kept the plate with bread and butter towards khushi without making her realize, knowing she didn't opt for breakfast other than fruits because the paratha is heavy food for her.

Khushi casually picked a bread slice wondering why she didn't notice it before and started spreading the peanut butter. Arnav smiled and admired her, while she ate.

Dadu, seated at the head of the table, observed the interactions with a knowing smile. "Arnav, how's work going?"

"Very well, Dadu," Arnav replied. "The new project is challenging, but we're making good progress." Arnav works in a prestigious office as a manager, where his leadership is highly valued and appreciated.