Highest rank: 43# in short story
"Harshad", I began
He looked straight into my eyes.
"He is no more in my life"
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She was the only girl he loved while she had lost the guy she loved.
The only simil...
To say I was shocked was absolutely an understatement. I could not believe my ears. Was this for real? It was bewildering.
"Harshad? will you?", her mom asked again.
The voice broke my thought process.
By the time I could reply, Deeksha came along with uncle. Good for me, I had some time to think for myself. She applied ointment on Aunt's twisted feet.
We had the dinner and with my confused mind, I left wondering where will life take us.
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Deeksha's POV:
Mom scares me so much sometimes. After losing Nikhil, it's implacable to lose someone else. My parents mean the world to me and I can do anything for their happiness. After all, they are the only family I have.
I have taken so much time to recover, come out from the darkest nights. One thing I have realized is that life is very unpredictable. Just one year back, things were so different. There was love everywhere. I miss him. I miss my old life.
"Can I come in?", mom asked knocking on my door.
"Of course mom", I said taking out my glasses and closing my book.
"Deeksha, I want to talk to you about something really important. I never spoke to you regarding this but I think its high time now. You need to think about your future my child. You need to move on Deeksha.
You are only 25. You have your entire life ahead. You can't ruin your life like this. I want to see my daughter happy and cheerful as she was. I want her to smile. I want her to enjoy life the way she used to. I want my little girl back", she said caressing my hair.
"Mom, what are you even telling? please be clear", I said unable to figure out her hidden motive.
"Okay, let me come straight to the point. I want you to get married. I want you to get married to Harshad", she said.
"Mom, that's not possible. Do you realize what you are talking?", I said widening my eyes.
"I do Deeksha. Also, I spoke to Harshad today and none of us will force him to marry you, it will be his decision and we will respect that.", she said which irritated me more.
"Why mom? Why did you talk to him? It is so embarrassing. How do I face him now and why would he even want to marry me?", I said almost crying
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"Are you okay with marrying him?", she asked.
"No", I answered.
I put the blanket over my head and tried to sleep but I couldn't. I was actually thinking about it. Did I want to marry him? Was I ready to move on?.
I had no answer!
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Next morning, mom told me that Harshad had called her and he wanted to talk to me before taking a decision. Dad also tried convincing me to at least talk to him and after a good amount of time, I kind of agreed.
But I didn't want Harshad to do this for me out of pity. I didn't want a man to depend on. I earned enough to support my family. So, I decided to clear everything.
By now, Harshad had shifted to his office as the collaboration between our companies was over. I wondered how awkward it would be if we were working in the same company. We decided to meet at about 6 in the evening.
He came near my office. He was looking really charming with a light blue shirt and a black tie. We chose a simple cafe to start our conversation.
I began, "I am so sorry Harshad. This is so embarrassing for me. Mom didn't even ask me and spoke to you. I don't know what you must be thinking, but believe me, I had no idea"
"I understand Deeksha, don't worry", he said trying to mollify me.
"Thanks", I uttered.
"Harshad, look, even if your answer is a yes, I really don't want you to do this for me out of sympathy alright", I said.
"I know you are a strong and independent girl, capable enough to take care of yourself and your parents. Also Deeksha, you lost your husband that doesn't mean you cannot be happy.
Everybody has equal right to lead their life the way they wish to and so do you. If not me, I would want you to marry another guy and stay happy".
His words gave me a hint that he did not want this wedding. I don't know why did I expect him to say a yes, though it was momentary that thought made me smile.
"Thanks. Listen, none of us are forcing you, it is totally your decision. Trust me, I don't expect anything from you", I said maybe with a little disappointment.
His expressions changed when I said that.
"I might not be a good husband to you Deeksha", he said placing his hand on mine.
"You are too good for me Harshad", I said trying to hide my grief. I don't know why was I sad. When did he start affecting me so much?
"I am sorry Deeksha but I can't marry you", he finally said.
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Damn! Did you guys think Harshad would say a yes? Let me know.
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