When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch 68. Concerns and Fears

Pinky's unease grew since learning about her son Shivay's relationship. It wasn't that she harbored prejudice against middle-class individuals, but her past experiences had left emotional scars. The memories of her father-in-law's treatment still lingered.

After marrying Shakti, Pinky struggled to gain acceptance from her father-in-law due to her humble background. He had always favored his other daughter-in-law, Jahanvi, who came from a wealthy family. Pinky felt invisible, constantly belittled, and marginalized.

Her father-in-law had initially opposed her marriage to Shakti, wanting his son to marry a woman from an affluent family. However, Shakti's grandfather intervened, arranging the union despite his son's reservations. Pinky's worth was only acknowledged after she bore twins – Shivay and Shivani.

But even then, her father-in-law's disdain for independent women persisted. This mindset had devastating consequences for Shivani, who was forced to abandon her entrepreneurial dreams and enter an arranged marriage with a stranger. The pain of witnessing her daughter's sacrifices still haunted Pinky.

Now, with Shivay, Pinky couldn't shake off the fear of history repeating itself. She worried that her son might suffer the same heartache. To alleviate her concerns, Pinky decided to meet the girl Shivay was interested in. She wanted to assess whether this woman was worthy of her son's love and capable of handling the complexities that came with being part of the Oberoi family.

Pinky's protective instincts kicked in, driven by a desire to safeguard Shivay's happiness. She knew that meeting Annika would help her determine if Shivay's relationship was worth fighting for or if it was a potential recipe for disaster.

Pinky sought out Om's assistance and headed to his room. She knocked gently on the door, and upon hearing his response, she entered. Om was engrossed in his art, his canvas coming alive with vibrant colors. As Pinky approached, he looked up, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled warmly at his Chachi.

"Chachi!" Om exclaimed, setting aside his brush. "What brings you here?"

Pinky's expression turned serious. "Om, I need your help with something. Can you do me a favor?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of apprehension.

Om's expression transformed into one of concern. "Anything, Chachi. What's troubling you?"

Pinky hesitated before revealing her intention. "I want to meet...Annika, Shivay's girlfriend but do not tell Shivay about it." Her voice barely above a whisper.

Om's eyebrows furrowed, sensing the gravity of her request. "Why do you want to meet Annika, Chachi? "

Pinky's hands trembled slightly as she explained, "I just need to ensure Shivay's happiness and safety. After what happened with Shivani...I can't bear the thought of Shivay suffering the same fate." Her eyes welled up with unshed tears.

Om immediately offered comfort, guiding Pinky to sit beside him on the bed. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Chachi. Annika isn't like that; she genuinely cares for Shivay. But I understand your concerns."

After a thoughtful pause, Om continued, "I'll arrange a meeting, but discreetly. We must respect Shivay's trust." His eyes sparkled with a plan. "Leave it to me, Chachi. I'll make sure you meet Annika without Shivay's knowledge."

Pinky's face reflected gratitude. "Thank you, Om. You're a true supporter." Her eyes locked onto Om's, filled with determination. "I must protect Shivay, no matter what."

Om nodded in understanding. "We'll do this together, Chachi. For Shivay's sake."

Om sat beside Pinky, deep in thought, pondering the perfect opportunity for Annika and his Chachi to meet. His contemplation was interrupted by the beep of his phone. He glanced at the screen to find a message from Ishana.