My Secret Love

Chapter 10

As the last of the guests departed, the night was winding down, leaving behind the faint scent of flowers and the soft glow of diyas. Khushi and Garima were getting ready to leave when Abhi approached them with a smile.

"Aunty, Khushi, let me drop you home," Abhi offered. "It's late, and I can have a quick chat with Sashi uncle too."

Khushi immediately felt a wave of discomfort wash over her. She tried to hide it, but her unease was apparent to Arnav, who had been watching the interaction from a distance.

Garima smiled appreciatively at Abhi's concern."Abhi, you must be tired after the party. You've been busy all evening, you should rest. We can manage, don't worry."

"Aunty, I don't mind dropping you both home," his tone warm and insistent. "It's no trouble at all, and your home is just at walking distance from here. It'll be quick."

Garima chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Abhi beta, you're too kind, but I know how Sashi is. Once he starts talking, he won't let you leave easily. And it's already quite late."

Abhi laughed, "I don't mind talking to Uncle. It's always good to hear his thoughts."

Garima raised a playful eyebrow, "But I do mind those dark circles you'll get if you stay too late. Especially when you're meeting a girl for marriage. We can't have you looking anything less than perfect, can we?"

Abhi's expression turned serious. "Aunty, I have to convince Uncle to stay here. What's the need to shift to Mumbai? I have plenty of reasons to persuade him, and I bet he won't be able to argue with them."

"But Abhi..." Garima began, then Abhi gently interrupted her.

"No, Aunty, not this time. You saw how upset Maa was when you mentioned moving. She didn’t even stay to see you off."

Garima sighed, her tone a mix of desperation and sincerity. "Aarti will eventually understand, and we’ll be back after your uncle's work is done."

Before Abhi could say anything more, Arnav stepped forward, his expression casual but his eyes conveying seriousness. "Bhai, why don't you let me drop them? You've had a long day, meeting all your official clients and entertaining guests. You deserve a break" Arnav suggested smoothly.

Abhi looked at Arnav, his brow furrowing slightly in confusion. "But I really want to speak with Sashi uncle." Abhi replied, not picking up on the tension.

Arnav forced a smile, trying to keep the situation light. "I get that Bhai, but trust me, I'll talk to Sashi Uncle and convince him to stay. Plus, Khushi and I could use a little more time together," he added, lowering his voice and leaning in closer to whisper the last part in Abhi's ear. "You understand, right? A little alone time with her..."

Abhi looked at Arnav, his expression a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Nice try, Arnav. But I really need to personally, check on Aru myself."

Arnav was persistent, though. "I promise, Bhai. I'll make sure everything is alright with Aru. Just trust me on this." He tried to make it sound like a harmless request, though his gaze flickered to Khushi, silently reassuring her.