Tangled Beliefs

Chapter-18: The Weight of Tomorrow

Sometimes, doing what makes others happy feels like the easiest way to make them leave you alone.

The words on my screen blurred together as I sat at my desk, trying to focus on the file in front of me. I knew I had to finish it. I couldn't afford another mistake, not today. But my mind was a mess. It was as if a storm had taken residence in my head, pulling me in every direction except the one I needed to go. I tried typing, but the cursor blinked back at me mockingly.

Before I could even attempt to clear my thoughts, my phone buzzed, jolting me. I glanced at the screen and saw Bhai flashing on it. My fingers hesitated over the reject button. I wasn't in the mood to talk, not now. Still, I declined the call and threw the phone aside.

But it buzzed again.

Frustrated, I picked it up. "What is it, Bhai?" I snapped, my tone harsher than I intended.

His voice came through, calm yet insistent. "Nandu, meet me at the Upside cafe during your evening break. It's important."

"I can't," I said flatly. "I'm busy."

"Nandini," he interrupted firmly, "just meet me. Please. It's important."

The way he said it left no room for argument. Reluctantly, I sighed. "Fine, Bhai. I'll come."

When my break finally arrived, I grabbed my purse and left, hoping I could return to the office before anyone noticed I was gone. The café was a short walk, but every step felt like I was dragging my feet through quicksand. My thoughts churned, wondering what was so urgent.

When I arrived, he was already there, sitting at a corner table. He smiled when he saw me, but there was something uneasy about his expression. As I approached, he stood and pulled me into a hug.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice full of concern.

I nodded, avoiding his gaze. "What's this about, Bhai? Why did you call me here?"

He hesitated, his fingers drumming on the table. That alone was enough to make my stomach drop. "Just... promise me you'll stay calm and hear me out," he said carefully.

I frowned, suspicion creeping in. "What is it?"

He shifted in his seat, looking anywhere but at me. "I think..." he started, stammering slightly, "I think you should meet the guy Dad has chosen for you."

His words hit me like a slap. My chest tightened, and I felt anger bubbling to the surface. "How could you say that, Bhai?" I asked, my voice trembling. "I thought you understood me. I thought you were on my side."

"Nandu, listen-"

"No!" I cut him off, standing abruptly. "I can't believe this. Did Dad brainwash you too? I thought you of all people would support me!"

"Nandini, stop!" His voice was firm now, and he grabbed my hand before I could walk away. "Please, just listen to me once."

I froze, glaring at him. "What is there to listen to, Bhai? You know how I feel about this!"

"I know," he said softly. "I know you want to focus on your career, and I respect that. But just hear me out. What's the harm in meeting the guy? That's all I'm asking. The decision will still be yours. If you don't like him, say no. I'll support you, no matter what."

His words made me pause. I wanted to argue, but deep down, I knew he was right about one thing-Dad wasn't going to back down. If I refused outright, he'd find another way to force this meeting. At least this way, I'd have some control.

"And think about it," Bhai continued, his tone softening. "You'll make Dad happy just by agreeing to meet him. You don't have to say yes, but at least consider it. Don't you think you deserve someone by your side? Someone who can understand you, stand with you?"