Stubborn Love

Beyond Her Reach

In the brightly illuminated grand hall, Vamika spoke agreeably with her mother. Her eyes spotted the young man entering through the ornate doors and her heart skipped a beat.

Sleek hair combed back, Raghav walked in traditional blue silk kurta and cream churidar.

Excusing herself, she made her way towards him. Once by his side, she said smiling, 'I am so happy you changed your mind.'

'I didn't change my mind. He blackmailed me.' Raghav said seriously. 'Obviously, I couldn't let a dull party cost me my inheritance.'

Vamika grinned at his light-hearted quip. And she couldn't wipe that grin for a long time. She didn't know if it was because he was being his usual carefree self after so long. Or because they were in the comforting familiar surroundings of their childhood. Or because he looked particularly breathtaking this evening. But she was falling for him all over again...

She had falsely believed that someone else could provide him the love and care that he deserved. But no one could adore him the way she did.

'Raghav, I want to talk you.'

He looked at her quizzically.

'Not now,' she said, looking at the crowded room. 'Meet me on the right-wing terrace at midnight.'

********************

Conversing formally with prominent dignitaries, Rajendra Sooryavanshi watched his son with appreciative eyes. At the moment, he was comfortably discussing the applications of technologically advanced automated irrigation system with a veteren agricultural expert.

He went and stood beside him once he was alone. 'Thank you for honoring my wish.'

'How could I miss my only father's wedding?' Raghav asked sardonically.

Rajendra sighed. 'I understand how difficult it is for you, son.'

'Really!' Raghav exclaimed in mock amusement. 'Is that why you constantly pressurized me? Because you understand?'

Rajendra shook his head. 'I know I am strict with you. A little more than I should be.'

'A little?' Raghav furrowed his brows and then grinned.

'I miss you, son. You have not come home in years. Not since - ' he paused uncomfortably and sighed. 'How could I celebrate this milestone of my life without my only son?'

Raghav looked down and nodded in understanding.

Assured by his response, he mentioned proudly, 'Your college Dean tells me you are the most outstanding student he has ever come across.'

'He accepts lakhs from you in grant. What bitter truth did you expect?'

Rajendra chuckled. Every minute he spent in his son's company doubled his chest with pride. He was extraordinary in every sense. Just like his mother...

'I know you dislike her,' he said, looking at the middle-aged woman in glittering silver sari. Raghav followed his gaze to his would be step-mother and looked away.

Rajendra continued, 'And I know you are angry with me for not being an ideal husband to your mother. But trust me son, I have never hurt your mother willingly. I am forever indebted to her for bringing you in my life. She was a very special person. A strong woman. A loving companion. An incomparable friend. I always loved her. But I was never in love with her.'

Raghav stared at the heartfelt words from his father with an immutable expression. For the first time in years, he could get what he was talking about. For the first time, it made complete sense to him that a heart wants what it wants. And no norm of right and wrong could change for whom it chooses to beat.