ENIGMA

Veil

Advik drove back to his home, his mind still occupied with the evening's events. As he entered, Mrs. Malhotra noticed his weary expression and asked, “You look exhausted.”

Advik, rubbing his temples, replied, “I’ll take a bath and come downstairs. Please wait for me. I’m quite tired.”

He made his way to the bathroom, taking a long, refreshing shower to wash away the tension of the day. Afterward, he donned a black t-shirt and black tracks, feeling more at ease in casual wear. When he came downstairs, he was greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere of his home.

Mrs. Malhotra and Mr. Malhotra were seated in the living room, chatting and enjoying a light snack. Advik joined them, trying to unwind and relax. The conversation turned to the upcoming engagement, and Advik’s mood lightened as he discussed the plans.

Mrs. Malhotra looked up as Advik entered. “You look much better now. What's about Ruhani? We heard about her health today from Karan.”

Advik settled into a chair with a sigh of relief. "It’s frustrating when she avoids necessary medical tests.”

Mr. Malhotra leaned forward, his expression sympathetic. “I can imagine. It’s good you’re taking charge. She’ll need that kind of firmness to adjust to everything.”

Advik nodded. “Yes, and also I talked to her parents about the marriage registration tomorrow. I want everything to go smoothly.”

Mrs. Malhotra smiled and replied, “You are sure about it right; about the registration?”

he nodded.

Mrs. Malhotra smiled encouragingly. “It will go smoothly, I’m sure. You’ve always been so organized and focused. Tomorrow will be perfect.”

As they chatted, Advik’s gaze wandered to the staircase. “By the way, where’s Inaya? I haven’t seen her around.”

“She’s in her room,” Mrs. Malhotra answered. “I think she’s been there most of the evening.”

Advik chuckled softly. “That figures. I haven’t had a chance to talk to her since yesterday. I doubt she’s gotten much done with her study.”

Advik nodded and then called a household staff member over. “Could you please get Inaya and ask her to come downstairs?"

Advik said looking unhappy, "She must be enjoying her time playing around and likely hasn’t opened her books.”

The staff member went to fetch Inaya, and Advik shared his thoughts with his parents. "You know, I’m not sure she’ll ever open her books without a bit of scolding from me.”

Both of his parents laughed. Mr. Malhotra chuckled, “Ah, the joys of having a teenage daughter. It’s always a challenge, but she’s a bright girl.”

Mrs. Malhotra added with a grin, “She probably needs a little push. I’m sure she’ll get her act together once you give her a nudge.”

As the conversation continued, Inaya finally appeared at the top of the stairs, looking curious. Advik greeted her with a warm smile, though his eyes held a hint of seriousness. “Ini, come down here. We need to have a quick chat.”

Inaya hesitated at the top of the stairs, her eyes darting nervously between Advik and the floor. She knew she hadn’t finished her homework and had been avoiding the task all day. Advik’s warm but authoritative tone made her feel both anxious and guilty.

Advik saw her hesitation and softened his approach. “Come on down. It’s been a while since we’ve had a proper chat. I genuinely missed talking with you.”