Bound by Love

Chapter 3: The Dinner of Expectations

The opulent dining room of the Raizada Mansion was adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and shimmering candles, casting a romantic glow over the long table set for dinner. Arnav and Khushi entered hand in hand, their hearts racing in sync with the pulse of the evening. The air was thick with the aroma of rich Indian spices and the soft murmur of conversation from the guests already seated.

Arnav's family was gathered, a mix of warmth and expectation radiating from them. Nani, the matriarch, was seated at the head of the table, her eyes sparkling with delight as she surveyed the gathering. Mami and Mamu were engaged in animated discussion, while Akash sat beside his mother, glancing nervously between Arnav and Khushi.

"Arnav, Khushi! Come join us!" Nani called out, her voice filled with warmth.

Arnav led Khushi toward the table, their fingers intertwined. The sight of them together drew a few curious glances, but Arnav remained unfazed, his focus solely on Khushi. As they settled into their seats, Khushi felt a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling within her.

"Let's begin," Nani declared, smiling at the guests who had gathered to meet Arnav. "Tonight is very special as we welcome potential brides for my grandson."

Khushi's heart sank slightly at the words. She could feel the weight of the expectations surrounding them, and her grip on Arnav's hand tightened instinctively. He turned to her, his expression reassuring, and she took a deep breath, steeling herself for the evening.

As the first course was served, a parade of beautiful young women was introduced to the family. Each one was more polished and poised than the last, recounting their accomplishments and sharing stories that painted them as the perfect matches for Arnav. Khushi felt her stomach twist with uncertainty.

Arnav, however, remained composed, engaging with the guests while keeping his attention on Khushi. He made sure to include her in the conversations, introducing her as his close friend, yet she could sense the lingering tension in the air.

"Arnav, you should really consider our dear Meera," Mami suggested, gesturing toward a striking young woman seated across from them. "She comes from a great family and has an excellent career."

Khushi forced a smile, but her heart ached at the implication. Arnav's jaw tightened as he replied, "Meera is indeed accomplished, but I'm not looking for someone based on their resume."

The dining room fell silent, and Khushi could feel the scrutiny of the family on her. Nani smiled encouragingly but added, "Arnav, you need to consider your future. You're not just marrying for love; you have a legacy to uphold."

Arnav's expression darkened at the suggestion, and Khushi felt a pang of sympathy for him. He was caught in a web of expectations that she could never fully understand. She leaned closer to him, squeezing his hand gently. "You don't have to do this," she whispered.

"I know," he replied, his voice low and steady. "But I want to show them that I'm serious about my life and my choices."

As the evening progressed, Khushi couldn't help but feel overshadowed by the other women, all of whom were charming, eloquent, and seemingly perfect. With each story shared and each compliment thrown her way, Khushi's insecurities began to creep in.

Then, it happened. A woman named Riya, who had been seated at the opposite end of the table, caught Arnav's eye and began to flirt openly. "You're so charming, Arnav. I can't believe someone like you is still single. What are you waiting for?" she teased, leaning in slightly.

Arnav maintained his composure, but Khushi felt a flash of jealousy ignite within her. She knew Arnav was loyal, but the sight of him being admired by someone else was unsettling.

"Perhaps he's waiting for someone who can match his energy," Riya continued, her gaze fixed on Arnav. "Someone who can keep up with him."

Khushi clenched her fists under the table, her heart pounding. Arnav, sensing her discomfort, turned to her and offered a reassuring smile, but the tension in the room was palpable.

"Khushi is more than capable of keeping up," Arnav said firmly, his voice cutting through the chatter. "She's a doctor and works tirelessly for her patients. I admire her dedication."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the room, and Khushi felt a rush of warmth at his words. Yet, she couldn't shake the feeling of inadequacy as the evening progressed.

After the main course, Nani stood to make a toast. "I'm proud of my family and the legacies we carry. It's important that we choose wisely for the future. Arnav, my dear, I hope you will consider the options tonight seriously."

With her gaze fixed on Khushi, Nani continued, "And for those of you who do not know Khushi, she is an accomplished doctor. Perhaps she can join us for a discussion on healthcare at some point?"

Khushi felt all eyes on her, and she offered a polite smile, though inside she was battling her insecurities. Arnav sensed her unease and leaned in, whispering, "Just be yourself. You're incredible."

The evening continued, but Khushi felt the weight of expectations suffocating her. After dessert was served, a game of introductions began, where each woman shared something unique about themselves. Khushi watched as Riya and the others highlighted their talents and achievements, and she felt herself shrink further into her seat.

When it was her turn, she hesitated, her mind racing. "I... I love working in the hospital. It's my passion," she said softly, avoiding the gazes around her.

"Passion is important," Nani interjected, smiling. "But it's also important to build a family and create a legacy. That's what I want for you, Arnav."

The pressure felt unbearable, and Khushi fought back tears. She looked at Arnav, her heart aching with the burden of being in a family that seemed so poised for tradition and conformity.

As the dinner drew to a close, Khushi felt lost and uncertain. She could see Arnav's frustration brewing as he realized the expectations placed on him.

After the last guest left, Arnav turned to Khushi, his expression a mix of anger and sadness. "I'm sorry about tonight. I didn't want this for you."

She shook her head, trying to muster a smile. "It's not your fault, Arnav. I just feel out of place."

He stepped closer, cupping her face in his hands. "You belong with me. We'll find a way to navigate this together. You're everything to me."

Khushi searched his eyes, feeling the weight of his love wash over her. "I love you, Arnav. But I also want you to be happy. I don't want to hold you back."

"Nothing will hold me back," he declared, his voice firm and resolute. "I'll do whatever it takes to make my family understand that you're the one for me."

As the night deepened, Arnav and Khushi found solace in each other, their bond strengthening amid the chaos. They knew challenges lay ahead, but together, they would face them head-on. Their love was a force powerful enough to withstand any storm, and they were determined to forge their own path, hand in hand.