Our Arranged Love Story

Part 2

Khushi was sitting in front of the mirror, combing her long hair while her Amma and Bua ji were talking with each other... She felt nervous and anxious with everything going on around her. She had come to Delhi to complete her education and had just started an internship. Getting married at only 20 had never been part of her plan. She dreamed of building her career, enjoying life, and discovering independence. But now, here she was, preparing for a marriage proposal that seemed to come out of nowhere. It felt like everything was moving too fast, and she wasn't sure if she was ready for such a big change.

For the past 15 years, Khushi had been living with her aunt Garima and uncle Shashi, who had taken her in after her parents passed away. They loved her like their own daughter, but Khushi couldn't help but feel like an additional responsibility in their shoulder... Garima and Shashi had two children of their own—Pranay, who was 17, and Niv, who was just 10. Raising two boys, with their school fees, clothes, and other needs, had already put a financial strain on Shashi. He worked hard to provide for his family, but it wasn't easy.

Khushi was always aware of the weight her uncle carried. Though they never made her feel like a burden, she understood their limitations. She didn't want to add to their struggles, especially with Pranay nearing college and Niv growing up quickly. She knew that no matter how much they loved her, they had their own challenges to face, both financially and socially. And Khushi, with her ever-growing sense of responsibility, didn't want to be the cause of any extra pressure on them.

This marriage wasn't something Khushi had chosen for herself; it had been arranged for her. And as much as she wished she could delay it, she knew deep down that she couldn't say no.

'You know, Khushi..' her Amma started softly.. 'I think this proposal is a blessing from Neelima Di. Ratna Ji and Arvind Raizada were so close to Shashank Jiju and Neelima Di. I'm sure it was Neelima Di's prayer that brought Ratna Ji to meet you at the mandir, and she got to know about you..'

Garima's voice was full of warmth, and Khushi paused for a moment. She wanted to brush it off, but even she felt a small tug in her heart. Maybe her Amma was right—maybe this proposal really was a blessing from her Mumma Papa... Khushi gave Garima a soft smile and she  cupped Khushi's cheek gently.

Bua ji, who had been listening, sighed deeply, 'I used to worry so much about your marriage, Khushi. I never imagined such a good match would come for a girl without parents. But look where we are now—with such a wonderful alliance!'

Hearing this, Garima's face fell a little. Khushi quickly shook her head, silently telling Garima not to be upset... She knew Bua ji meant well, but sometimes those words stung..

Khushi stood up, adjusting her dark pink churidar, and checked her reflection again in the mirror. She looked beautiful, but her mind was still filled with nervousness... Garima watched her daughter lovingly as her eyes were filled with her late sister's memories... She reached out and gently put a black tika behind Khushi's ear to ward off the evil eye.

'Amma, please,' Khushi huffed, trying to ease the moment. 'Don't cry like this. I'm not getting married today!'

Garima smiled through her tears... 'I know, but I can't help it. You're going to get married soon, and I just can't believe how fast my little Khushi has grown up.'

Khushi, hoping to lighten the mood, teased, 'If you're so sad, Amma, we can always delay the wedding. Let them know we're in no rush.'

Before Garima could answer, Bua ji spoke up, 'Oh no, no! He's such a good boy! We can't let him slip away. If we say anything like that, they might get offended and cancel the rishta. We'll do whatever they ask!'

Khushi rolled her eyes, amused, and playfully wrapped her arms around Bua ji's neck. 'If he's that good, Bua ji, why don't you marry him yourself? Just say the word, and I'll set up your wedding!'