A Dowry of Dreams

Chapter II

The exterior of the cinema hall typically features a large, illuminated marquee with the name of the cinema and the titles of the films currently showing. Neon lights or backlit signage often adorn the marquee, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display. The architecture may be classic, with a retro or Art Deco style, including decorative elements.

Crowds of people gather outside, forming a line at the ticket counter, which might be located near the entrance. Patrons range from families and couples to groups of friends, all eagerly awaiting their turn to enter. Some are holding tickets or movie stubs, while others are chatting and discussing their excitement for the films.

"We are short of money. They increased their ticket price from last time."

"Oh no! Urmi, what are we supposed to do now? I really wanted to watch this movie."

"Jiya, let's do one thing. This money is enough for one ticket. You go and watch the movie with Radha. I will wait for you."

"No need to pretend, Urmila. I know you want to watch the movie too. No need to act altruistic. I'm not going to leave you alone. I promised our mother that we will stick together."

"Jiya, then do you have any other suggestions?"

"No, but whatever you're planning, let's do it together. If you want to watch the movie, then we have to watch it together. If you don't want to, then neither of us will watch it."

"Listen to me, Jiya! You go and watch the movie."

"No, you can't be alone. You're so pretty, Urmii. You'll have every man in the area pouncing on you."

"Don't be silly, Jiya."

"Urmii, I want to help you and mother. We can't survive on mother's pension. I will get a job soon."

"Jiya, it's not the time to think about that. You need to focus on your studies to get a proper job. With your current education, you can't get a decent job. Please don't do anything stupid that would make our mother disappointed."

"If our dad were alive..."

"Jiya, you focus on your education. In the meantime, I will try to find a wealthy man to marry, which will make things better."

"Urmii, who will marry you without a good education or dowry?"

"I hope someone will."

"Urmila Dii... Jiya... why are you still out here?let's go in.
Ohh Urmii Dii it's your first time meeting my brother. Let me introduce you, this is my brother Vijay."

He was a lean, muscular, fair, tall, handsome man about 25 years old. He had a small moustache and wavy hair. He wore a perfectly tailored white shirt with black pants.

"Hello, Jai bai,

Hello Jiya, "how are you doing nowadays. Your not visiting home frequent as before."

"You forgot again. I told you I'm at I'm grandparents place thesdays. My school is near to my grandparents place."
...."this is my sister Urmila. Urmi this is Jai bai".

" I heard lot about you mis. Urmila. Finally got the chance to meet you."

Hmm, hello!

His eyes were fixed on Urmila, as if he was going to savour her.

"Hi."

"Let's go inside! Jiya, come on."

"No, actually we decided not to watch it."

"Why? This movie is good. I've heard people saying it's worth watching." Jai noticed the pamphlet in Urmila's hand. "Are you short of money?" His gaze slowly shifted to Jiya.

"I can lend you the money. It's not a problem. You guys should watch it."

"No, thanks. Let's go, Jiya."

"Are you sure? You can pay me back."It's not like we are strangers".

Jiya was convinced by Jai. "Okay then, we will give back the money."

Urmila, come on," Jiya said, giving her hand a light tap.

"Okey fine ". Let's go.

They entered cinema hall. Urmila's seat is next to vijay.
Both Radha and Jiya were enjoying the movie.

Jai's fingers brushed Urmila's hand. She couldn't understand was it intentional or a accident.

Theatre was dark. So she couldn't see Jai's face.

Afersome time he holded her hand as if he declaring his ownership.

She felt odd. And struggled to get free from his hold.
Suddenly lights turned on. It was time for interval.

Jiya," I'm going out. You want to come with me" .

"No; how about you take Jai bai with you."

"No it's okey. I can go alone. I just asked you whether you want to go."

Urmila , walked out of movie hall.

She was standing outside. Suddenly someone hugged her from the back.The grasp was tight.

She panicked. Before she couldn make any sound hand was covered her mouth pulling her to a corner.

He turned her around. Pushing her to a wall still covering her mouth. Her eyes enlarged....

Jai......!