Tangled Beliefs

Chapter-27: Her Heavy Heart

What you think is your only option may not always be the right one. But sometimes, we only see that in hindsight.

Rudraksh’s POV,

Dinner at Murthy Mansion had always been a mix of forced civility and underlying tension, but tonight, the air felt heavier than usual. Even as Ansh’s cheerful chatter filled the table, my eyes darted toward Nandini.

She had announced her decision to marry Manik Malhotra—a decision so abrupt and out of character that I still couldn’t wrap my head around it. My baby sister didn’t give in easily, let alone on something as important as her future.

As the meal ended and Nandini got up to leave, I exchanged a look with Prisha. Without needing words, we both knew we had to talk to her.

“Wait a second, Nandu,” I called out, stopping her just as she reached the door.

She turned, her face calm but guarded. “What is it, Bhai?”

Prisha joined me, placing a hand gently on Nandini’s arm. “Can we talk? Just for a minute?”

Nandini sighed but nodded. “Fine.”

We moved to the side, away from the dining area, where no one could overhear us. I could feel the weight of the conversation before it even began.

“Nandu,” I started, keeping my voice steady, “why did you change your decision suddenly? What’s really going on?”

Her expression didn’t falter. “I didn’t change my decision, Bhai. It was never mine to make in the first place.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I asked, frowning.

She shrugged, her voice laced with bitterness. “From when have my decisions ever mattered in this house? Dad’s always the one making them. I’m just following his orders, like I always do. So now too, I’m doing the same. And you were the only one who asked me to meet the guy and then decide. So, I’m exactly doing the same. Does that satisfy you?”

Prisha frowned, concern etched across her face. “Nandini, don’t say that. This is your life we’re talking about. You don’t have to do something just because Dad says so.”

“Exactly,” I said, stepping closer to her. “You don’t have to force yourself into this. If you don’t want this marriage, just say the word, and I’ll handle it. I’ll talk to Dad. I’ll make him cancel the whole damn thing.”

Nandini shook her head, her expression softening but remaining resolute. “No, Bhai. Don’t do that.”

I could feel frustration bubbling under my skin. “Why not? You’re clearly not okay with this, Nandu. Why are you doing this to yourself?”

“Because it’s fine,” she said, her voice firm but quiet. “I’m fine, Bhai. I’ve made my peace with it. One day or another, I would’ve had to agree to this marriage. Why not now?”

“Fine?” I repeated, incredulous. “You call this fine? You’re throwing your life away, Nandu. You deserve better than this.”

Prisha stepped in, her voice gentle but firm. “Nandu, listen to your brother. You don’t have to carry this burden alone. We’re here for you. Always.”

But Nandini simply smiled—a small, tired smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “I know, Bhabhi. And I appreciate it. But this isn’t something I need help with. I’ve already made up my mind.”

Before either of us could respond, she raised a hand to stop us. “Please, just let it be. And promise me one thing.”

I crossed my arms, narrowing my eyes at her. “What promise?”