Accepting Reality

Part 29 - Insulting Payal

Khushi was in a jubilant mood, the morning incidents had made her day. Arnav lashing out on Payal and their cute moment wherein he accepted wanting a baby with her. Things couldn't just get better or maybe they could. Later that day, Khushi carefully orchestrated another incident. As Payal walked down the hallway carrying a tray of tea, she suddenly slipped, nearly falling. But Akash, who had been nearby, rushed forward and caught her just in time.

Akash: "Are you okay, Payal?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Payal: "Yes, thank you, Akash. I'm fine."

Khushi watched the scene from a distance as she saw Manorama noticing them and frowning. A satisfied smile playing on her lips. She had made sure there was a bit of powder on the floor, just enough to make Payal slip but not enough to cause her any real harm. It was all part of her plan to make Payal feel closer to Akash. In the evening, Khushi sat with Manorama and Naani in the living room. They were discussing regular gossip but Khushi skillfully steered the conversation towards potential brides for Akash, especially one of Manorama's choices.

Khushi: "Manorama maami, you were telling me about that girl you liked for Akash. What's she like?" she asked, feigning interest.

Manorama: "Oh, she's wonderful, Khushi. She's from a respectable family, well-educated, and very graceful. Exactly the type of girl we need for Akash"

Khushi: "Nice so when are you introducing them?"

Manorama: "Once I get your approval!"

Khushi (laughing): "My approval? I think you should ask Akash not me"

Naani: "She is right Khushi after all you are the elder daughter-in-law of the house. We cannot agree to a proposal if you don't vet it! Right Anjali?"

Anjali: "Totally true Naani"

Khushi: "What did you think Anjali Di?"

Anjali: "I thought she was alright, but Akash can do better. In fact I think it's best if he only gets some girl so that we don't have to go through all this process," laughing.

Khushi: "You are right di but well don't we all know my devarji"

As Manorama delved into the conversation further, she couldn't resist taking subtle jabs at Payal.

Manorama: "You see, Khushi, we need someone who can adapt to our lifestyle, not someone who brings in habits that don't suit our family. And of course, she must have a spotless reputation. You know very well how people try to get close to us just because of their interest in the money."

Khushi nodded along, carefully agreeing with every point. Payal, Garima and buaji who had been sitting around the living room as well heard their conversation. Payal felt a pang of insecurity and sadness as she realised that the kind of girl Manorama wanted for Akash was nothing like her. Garima and buaji were seething in anger seeing the kind of privilege and respect Khushi had in the family. They couldn't shut up about her kindness and kept praising her always. Meanwhile, Akash had taken Disha, Payal's daughter, outside to play. He enjoyed spending time with the little girl, and in her innocence, she reminded him of a simpler time in his own life. As he played with Disha, he found himself thinking more about Payal and how kind and gentle she was. Akash was clueless about Khushi's past with the Guptas as his parents never informed him.

Two days later, it was Khushi's birthday, and Arnav had planned a surprise celebration at their home. As the evening unfolded, the Raizada mansion was transformed into a lively, festive scene. The rooms were adorned with elegant decorations, soft lights twinkling like stars, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh flowers. The entire family had gathered to celebrate Khushi, and the event was nothing short of grand. Khushi entered the room, and a chorus of "Happy Birthday!" greeted her. She was stunned by the sight everyone had come together to make her day special. Arnav, who had orchestrated the entire evening, stood beside her, his eyes filled with love and pride. He had gone to great lengths to ensure every detail was perfect, from her favourite flowers to the music playing softly in the background. Naani was the first to approach Khushi, pulling her into a warm embrace.