How to Woo Your Bride

45| Mission Aakash

Be your own inspiration. 

It leaves no room for hatred of any kind to others, or depression.

- Akshaya Kumar :P

Chapter 45: Mission Aakash

   Madhan was getting late for work. He usually left the house by eight fifteen, but right now it was eight twenty five. He had stayed in bed for an unusually long time. Riya had one arm wrapped around his waist, and the other on her teddy bear. He kept stroking her hair, wishing to stay like that for eternity.

   He slipped into his shoes. As he stepped out of the house, he heard Riya say, "You forgot your case."

   She was leaning on the wall adjacent to his room and rubbing her eyes.

   Madhan rushed back inside and grabbed his suitcase. Taking the risk, he kissed Riya on her right cheek. "See you in the evening," he winked and left.

   Riya's heart stopped. What was that? Her stomach did a couple of somersaults and she felt giddy. She locked the front door and leaned behind.

   What now?

   She had a whole day ahead of her. Since there was nothing to do, she picked up her books and started prepping. A few days before, she had checked out some of the certification dates. Apparently, this test could be written anytime. The sooner she wrote it, the faster she could start applying for a job. She was so bored to death at home, alone.

   Riya was washing the dishes when she heard Madhan walk inside. "You're home early today," she said to him.

   Madhan appeared a bit distracted. "Yeah." She watched him disappear into his room.

   That's weird, she thought. Madhan didn't explain further. A few minutes later, after washing the dishes, she walked into Madhan's room, astonished to see him packing.

   "Where are you going?"

   "Lon- Los Angeles. I'll be gone for a week. Urgent business meeting."

   Riya narrowed her eyes at him. Why did he appear so restless? "Yeah? What's it about?"

   "Business," Madhan said, without batting an eye.

   Riya rolled her eyes. "Seriously? Fine, don't tell me," she huffed. She walked back into the kitchen, trying to find something else to do. Inside, she was deeply hurt. She felt he wasn't being honest with her.

   A minute later, Riya felt two arms being wrapped around her waist. Madhan had his chin placed on her head, startling Riya.

   "I'm sorry. It was planned all of a sudden. I was just stressed about the trip. The meeting is about a biometric system."

   Riya had closed her eyes, letting the feeling of warmth wash over her. This gesture was extremely comforting and she felt better already.

   "Okay," she said, softly.

   Madhan kissed her right cheek and let go of her. Boy, was he getting very gutsy. He resumed packing. He felt horrible for lying to her. He was, in fact, going to London. To meet Riya's ex-boyfriend. The boy who has still stolen Riya's heart. He hoped to bring it back to her when he meets him.

   He was ready to leave in an hour. Luck was on his side this day. His boss had asked if there were any volunteers to go to London to speak to a client and Madhan was the first to volunteer. He was killing two birds with one stone with this opportunity.