Once upon a time, men and women entered marriage with very clear policies regarding the division of labour: he would go to work and "bring home the bacon," while she would stay at home and cook, clean, and raise the children. Things aren't the same as they used to be. Modern Indian romance, intimacies, and marriages are far more complicated than assessments and reality television shows portray. In India, arranged marriages are an unique and complex process. People seek a 'soulmate' with whom they can spend the rest of their lives, but they also have specific expectations of the potential bride or groom. There is a strong narrative about finding love, compatibility, and connection, but what stands out is a real intent to replicate class identities beneath all of this. In a country that depends on a spending population, "middle class" is a necessary armour, a shared language, a value system, and, more importantly, a way of life. Life may be unjust, irritating, and disarmingly disappointing on most days. Being middle class, on the other hand, creates character in a culture obsessed with the need to be a part of the rat race. Marriage also places the onus of making sacrifices, concessions, and making the marriage work on the couple. This tale illuminates the unseen and underappreciated aspects of an Indian arranged marriage, the life of a middle-class wife and husband and their shared responsibilities as they navigate through life. Immense amount of desi tadka awaiting your way. *I don't own the illustration on the poster.*

She chose her apartment because she liked the attached balcony and the peace and quiet it afforded her. That is soon about to change thanks to a new neighbour. Author's Note: This story is dedicated to my person, my Yang, my Lorelai. I write today because you asked why not. Cover Picture Courtesy: To the ever lovely @AasthaKatrela!