Foundation of Marriage

Part 17 - The Morning

Although Arnav didn't believe in marriages but Akash, sensing the opportunity to make his point, jumped in.

Akash: "Bhai, let's think about this logically. You want leverage, right? You'll still have that. Everything you said earlier is true, Khushi won't find a better person than you to protect her. She'll be safe with us. And let's face it, with this marriage, you can finally get Di and Naani off your back forever."

Arnav raised an eyebrow, curious about where Akash was going with this.

Arnav: "Get Di and Naani off my back?"

Akash (enthusiastically): "Exactly! Look, it's Khushi we're talking about. She knows you, she knows your likes, dislikes, and quirks, what makes you angry. If you two get married, it can be on your terms. And let's be honest, Bhai, after my wedding, Di and Naani are going to start finding a bride for you. They won't rest until you're married off. How long do you think you can keep saying no to them? Eventually, they'll trap you."

Arnav frowned, realising there was some truth to Akash's words. He knew his sister and grandmother wouldn't give up until he was married, and he didn't want to be forced into a situation he couldn't control. Akash continued, his voice was gentle but persuasive.

Akash: "I know this isn't the ideal situation, and it's not what either of you would have planned for yourselves. But if you think about it, this marriage could be beneficial for both of you. Khushi will be safe and secure, and you'll have the leverage you want on your side bhai. Plus, it'll solve a lot of problems for everyone. Maybe it's not perfect, but it's the best solution we have right now. If later at any point you both feel that it is not working out, then you both can mutually get separated. That's like any other marriage."

Arnav looked at Akash, then at Khushi, who was standing quietly, her eyes were filled with a mix of emotions. He could see the fear and uncertainty in her eyes, but also a glimmer of trust, trust that she had in him. After a long pause, Arnav finally spoke, his voice measured.

Arnav: "You're right, Akash. This isn't ideal. But maybe, it's the most practical solution we have."

Akash looked at Khushi and Payal with a calm yet serious expression.

Akash: "Khushi, I know this is a lot to take in, but I truly believe that you and Payal will be happy with our family. We care about you both, and if you're telling the truth about Shyam, then you really don't have anything to worry about. The way I see it, the ball is in your court now. You and Payal need to decide what's best for you."

Arnav, who had been standing quietly, spoke up.

Arnav: "I agree with Akash. If you both are willing to go through with this marriage, then we need to move forward. But this isn't something that can be decided lightly. I want you to think over it carefully. If you decide to agree, let me know by tomorrow morning at 10 AM. We'll need to discuss the terms and conditions, and I'll make sure everything is set up properly."

Khushi nodded slowly, still processing everything. "Okay" she whispered.

With that, the conversation came to an end. Akash gently guided Payal towards the car, while Khushi stood still for a moment, with her mind racing. Arnav watched her for a second longer, his gaze intense, before turning and leaving. As everyone walked away, Khushi knew that the night ahead would be long and full of difficult thoughts. The decision she had to make was life changing, but somewhere she knew she had already made her decision.

Khushi laid on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Just a few days ago, everything seemed to be taking a turn for the better. Arnav had been showing signs that he cared for her, that maybe, just maybe, he was capable of love. But now, everything had changed. Her Arnavji was back to being his devilish self, cold and calculating. The same man who had made her heart race with the smallest of gestures had now shattered it by demanding a contract marriage.