Blueprints of Love

37. Meeting Rajat's Parents

The morning sun streamed through the curtains of Savi's apartment, illuminating the room with a soft, golden glow. She stood in front of the mirror, her heart racing as she adjusted her hair for the umpteenth time. Today was the day she would meet Rajat's parents, and nerves fluttered in her stomach like a swarm of butterflies.

"You've got this, Savi," she whispered to herself, taking a deep breath. "Just be yourself."

Savi had always been a little anxious about meeting new people, especially when it came to the parents of someone she cared about. She wanted to make a good impression, to show them that she was worthy of their son. Dressed in a simple yet elegant outfit, a soft red saree, she felt both nervous and excited.

When Rajat arrived to pick her up, he found her pacing in the living room, deep in thought. "Hey, you okay?" he asked, concerned about etching his features.

"I'm fine!" Savi replied a little too quickly, a nervous smile on her face. "Just... a little jittery about meeting your parents, that's all."

Rajat chuckled, stepping closer to her. "You'll be great. They're going to love you, I promise. Just be yourself."

"Easier said than done," Savi muttered, trying to mask her anxiety. "What if they don't like me? What if I say something stupid?"

"Trust me, they'll be charmed by you," he said, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "And if you do say something stupid, I'll take full responsibility. Just focus on having a good time."

With a final deep breath, Savi nodded, determination taking over. "Okay, let's do this."

As they drove through the bustling streets of Mumbai, Savi glanced out the window, trying to calm her racing thoughts. Rajat occasionally glanced at her, a reassuring smile on his face, his presence providing her with a sense of comfort.

When they arrived at Rajat's family home, a beautiful, modern house nestled in a quiet neighbourhood, Savi felt her heart quicken again. "Here we are," Rajat said, looking at her with an encouraging nod. "Ready?"

"Not really, but I guess I have to be," Savi replied, laughing nervously.

Rajat took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Just remember, they're just people like us. Let's go in together."

As they entered the house, the familiar scent of home-cooked food wafted through the air, wrapping around Savi like a warm hug. Rajat's mother, Bhagyashree, greeted them with open arms, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

"Rajat! I'm so glad you're here!" she exclaimed, pulling him into a tight embrace. Then she turned to Savi, her smile widening. "And you must be Savi! I've heard so much about you!"

Savi felt a wave of relief wash over her. "Hi, Mrs. Thakkar. It's lovely to finally meet you," she said, returning the warmth of Bhagyashree's smile.

"Oh, please call me Aunty! 'Mrs. Thakkar' makes me feel formal!" she laughed, ushering them into the living room. "Come in, come in! I made your favourite, Rajat."

Rajat rolled his eyes playfully. "Mummy, you know I can't resist your cooking. You're trying to bribe me with food again."

Bhagyashree laughed, the sound filling the room with joy. "Well, it works every time! Savi, would you like some tea?"

"Yes, please," Savi replied, feeling a bit more at ease. She took a seat on the couch, glancing around at the family photos lining the walls. There were pictures of Rajat as a child, beaming with joy, and a few snapshots of him and his parents on various vacations.

Rajat joined her on the couch, his knee brushing against hers. "So, Savi," Bhagyashree began, settling into a chair across from them. "Tell me about yourself. What do you do?"