Manik: "Life doesn't come with choices; it comes with responsibilities. You live it on your terms or get buried under someone else's."
Nandini: "Love is a word people use too lightly, a hollow promise made to be broken. I've never believed in it, an...
A forced marriage, a reluctant partnership, yet an undeniable connection. Was it war or was it fate?
Manik’s POV,
I woke up groggily, the soft hum of the air conditioning the only sound in the room. Turning over, I saw the other side of the bed but found it empty. My eyes opened fully, and I glanced around. The bathroom door was open, and Nandini was nowhere to be seen.
I sighed and checked the time on my phone. It was already 8 AM. Stretching lazily, I unlocked my phone and scrolled through some emails and messages. I was replying to one of Dhruv’s texts when the door creaked open.
Nandini stepped in, looking slightly hesitant. Her hair was tied back in a loose braid, and her simple Kurti looked neat yet understated.
“Breakfast is ready,” she said softly, her voice a little unsure. “When will you come down?”
I set my phone aside and replied, “After getting ready, I’ll be there.”
She stood there for a moment, fidgeting slightly, before asking, “Should I bring your clothes?”
I raised an eyebrow at her, surprised by the offer. “You don’t have to take the trouble.”
“It’s okay,” she said quickly, almost as if she didn’t want to argue.
I sighed and shrugged. “Fine, your wish.”
Nandini nodded and moved to the closet. She seemed so meticulous, carefully selecting a shirt, trousers, and the necessary accessories. I watched her momentarily before deciding not to make things more awkward.
After my shower, I came out to find the room empty. On the bed, my clothes were laid out perfectly—a crisp white shirt, black trousers, Black coat, socks, my watch, and even a folded handkerchief. I shook my head lightly, a small smile tugging at my lips. She had gone above and beyond.
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Once I was dressed and ready, I headed downstairs. The dining table was buzzing with chatter. Everyone was seated—Cabir, Navya, Mom, Dadi, and Dad. I sat and greeted everyone with a casual “Good morning.” Nandini and Navya were serving breakfast. As Nandini placed a bowl of fresh fruit on the table, Cabir cleared his throat dramatically.
“Okay, everyone,” he began, “Navya and I are leaving for Bangalore this evening.”
I frowned. “What’s the hurry?”
Before Cabir could answer, Nandini chimed in, “Why are you leaving so soon, Didu?”
Cabir gave her a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry, Nandini. We’re not going for long—just a week. After that, we’ll be shifting here to Mumbai for good.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Have you finalized the house deal?”
“Yes,” Cabir replied. “The deal was signed last week, but Navya and I need to pack up our stuff and wrap things up in Bangalore before moving here permanently.”
