First of all, why aren't you following me? 🥲
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It was six in the morning.
She— Anita had already bathed and dressed and her colorful dupatta was draped neatly over her shoulder as she moved about, preparing breakfast for her family.
The sound of oil sizzling in the pan fraternize with the soft hiss of tea boiling in a pot nearby.
The satisfying aroma of chai, steeped with ginger and cardamom, filled the room.
On the stove, she carefully flipped golden-brown parathas, while a pot of spiced aloo bhaji simmered next to it.
Her mother entered the kitchen, drawn by the delicious smells.
She took in the spread with a small smile and inhaled deeply.
"Good morning, Mother!" she chimed brightly with a wide smile lighting up her face.
Her mother looked at her, raising her brows with a curious smile. "You seem to be in a happy mood early in the morning."
"I'm always in a happy mood," she replied, glancing over with her grin, while expertly layering fresh green chutney over a plate of steaming poha.
Her mother shook her head with a chuckle. "Well, is there anything I can do to help?"
Pouring out two cups of chai, she sighed softly. "Father was arrested last night. You all can live comfortably now, without fear. Even the village men who helped him were caught," she said with a calm tone.
Her mother's smile disappeared as her face turned tensed. "Bail? They'll bail him out, won't they?"
"I doubt they'll be able to," she whispered, "He tortured us for so many years, but it's over now." She took a sweet, golden laddoo she'd made and held it up, smiling as she gently pressed it into her mother's mouth.
Her mother chewed, her eyes filling with tears of relief and happiness, each bite tasting like freedom and peace after years of fear.
Anita's voice grew softer as she continued, "Remember that day when you asked if I loved Akash?"
Her mother swallowed slowly, her gaze becoming gentle, sensing where the conversation was going. She nodded,
"He proposed to me yesterday," she confessed, her cheeks flushing with joy. "He even made it special, just like in my dreams—he took me to a garden, the most beautiful one I never thought could exist in real life."
A shadow crossed her mother's face and she sighed. "I want nothing more than your happiness, but you know it's complicated. You can't marry again..."
Anita's brows knitted. "They're gone now, Mother. Arrested. Moreover, I love him deeply, and I've already said yes."
"Are you prepared to face a lifetime of backlash?" her mother asked, her tone heavy with concern. "You walked out of your marriage, and now you want to marry again. That has never been done in our family. No one has ever broken tradition like that. In fact, our women don't leave their marriages, no matter how hard it is."
She took a deep breath, steadying her voice before speaking. "I know," she began, "And that's why I want to start something—a foundation. I haven't told anyone yet, but I thought about it last night. It will be a place of support, a shelter for those who have walked the same path as me. It will help divorces rebuild their lives, provide aid to the homeless, offer jobs, and support those in forced marriages. I want to do it all..."
Her mother placed a hand over her lips, a quiet plea for her to stop.
But she moved her hand away, her eyes still fierce, "I will protect children from abusive parents, Mother. I will stand for them. No one should endure what we went through. Akash sent me a large sum of money yesterday, and I'll use it to build this foundation. Every girl deserves to live safely, freely, and I will make sure they have that chance."
Her mother's eyes filled with tears and she swathed her in a tight hug. "I love you, Anita," she whispered, "I've never been prouder in my life. I love all my children, but you... you hold a very special place in my heart, an exceptionally special place."
"Don't make me cry now," she replied with a watery smile. "Just tell me, Mother. Akash is waiting for your response. Should I tell him it's a 'yes' from you too?"
She pulled back slightly, cupping Anita's face with her hands. "Will it make you happy?"
She lowered her gaze shyly and gave a small nod.
"Then may this union be blessed and fruitful," she ascertained. "I can't wait to see you marry a man of your choice." She hugged her again tightly.
****
At seven sharp, the restaurant was bustling, filled with eager patrons gathered to witness the famed coffee-making process.
As she approached the door, she noticed a staff member stationed there, collecting entry fees before letting people in.
He caught her eye and smiled. "Good morning, sister. Mr. Mukesh and the others are waiting for you in the conference room," he informed her.
A flicker of surprise crossed her face—because Mukesh and the others rarely stopped by.
"Really?" she replied, feeling excitement. It had been a while since she'd seen them.
Without delay, she stepped into the elevator and rode up to the top floor. As she entered the conference hall, she found them already seated, deep in conversation.
However, the moment she stepped in, they turned and greeted her in unison.
"Welcome, the brain of our restaurant!" they exclaimed, rising to their feet and breaking into applause.
She chuckled, a bit flustered, wondering if it was praise or if there was something she'd done, probably a mistake she wasn't aware of.
"Anita, really, you came up with a brilliant idea to generate more revenue. We're all incredibly proud of you," one of her partners said, stepping closer with a beaming smile.
She shook her head, a bit puzzled. "What have I done, though?" she asked, still unsure.
"Well, everyone here has paid a large amount just to watch the coffee-making process," he explained. "And the best part? We're not even showing the real recipe. Why should we? We wouldn't want anyone recreating it at home."
"Oh," she murmured, her enthusiasm becoming dampened. She'd wanted giving the customers an authentic, full experience for free.
"Come, have a seat. We have a lot to discuss with you," they invited. One of the partners gestured toward the executive chairs, guiding her to sit as the others gathered around.
"And now? What else?" She glanced around at each of them with a curious and skeptical gaze.
"What other source of revenue are we planning?" she asked, her tone hemmed with mild disinterest, presuming that that was their primary reason for being there.
"You always cut to the chase. That's what I appreciate about you," one of them replied, flashing her a quick smile.
"Now that we've permanently established our brand in Mumbai, we're considering opening a branch in Delhi," another partner chimed in. "We're hoping it'll be just as successful there."
She raised a brow, shrugging slightly. "That's your decision. I'm not interested in partnering on a Delhi branch."
One of the men leaned forward, shaking his head. "Not an option. You'll have a share in every branch we open. You're part of this, forever."
She forced a polite smile. "If there's nothing else, I do have work waiting. May I go?"
"Of course," Mukesh said, waving a hand. "This wasn't an official meeting, so feel free. We'll schedule something soon to go over all of this formally. Be ready."
"Looking forward to it," she murmured, giving them a small nod before getting up and turning to leave.
After she returned to the ground floor, she scanned the busy restaurant, spotting Muhammad near the entrance, who was equally glancing around as if searching for someone.
She approached him, and his face brightened immediately with a glow spreading across his features as he saw her.
"Come with me to my office. I have some work for you," she said.
She turned to lead the way, and he followed.
When they entered the office, the air was encouched with lavender fragrance that matched the purples surrounding them.
The walls were draped in violet tones, and fetching lavender curtains framed the morning light that streamed in through the windows.
Her desk, a decadent, polished mahogany, held a neatly arranged stack of files, a small bouquet of fresh flowers, and a steaming cup of tea from earlier.
As she settled into her chair, her eyes fell on the cup which her staff had sent while she was in the conference hall.
She looked up at Muhammad, gesturing for him to take a seat across from her.
He sank into it and glanced around at the beautiful room.
"Thank you. Good morning," he greeted her with admiration in his voice while still taking in the details of the space.
"Good morning," she replied with a small smile. "Would you like tea or coffee?"
"Tea, since it's still early," he responded with a grin, his gaze meeting hers briefly before flickering to the steaming pot on the side table, where the aroma of freshly brewed tea floated over them.
She poured the tea into an empty cup, the amber liquid swirling in the cup before sliding it across to him,
It was still hot because the steam was still curling from the surface.
She wrapped her hands around her cup, and took a careful sip.
The tea was perfectly brewed, the spices bold but balanced, just the way she liked it, so did he.
She took another sip, so did he, before she spoke, her gaze focused on him. "So, you're from Mewat, studied in Banaras, and now living here in Mumbai?" she asked, watching for his reaction and he nodded.
"Right," he replied.
"And a reporter?" she added.
He chuckled, touching the ID lanyard around his neck. "You doubt me? My credentials are right here." He gestured, but her eyes remained on him, unfazed.
She leaned forward slowly, her tone softening. "I have a job for you—something I need researched thoroughly. I'd want you to dive into it and report back to me as soon as possible. If it means taking a few days off from your regular work, I'll compensate you." Her voice had a pleading edge, and he could see she was serious.
He studied her, intrigued. "What kind of work are we talking about?"
"First," she began, and released a sigh, "I need to know which state in India has the highest rate of child marriage. Does it still happen frequently? If so, bring me a detailed report. Also, I want to understand the rates of children abandoned by their families and left to fend for themselves on the streets." She took a long breath again, her gaze still on him. "Let's start with this. When can I expect your findings?"
He nodded, noting her need, and then asked, "Why are you suddenly so involved in this?"
She smiled, "Because no child should have to grow up too soon. Every child deserves a chance to experience a real childhood." Her voice softened, almost reflective to her own struggles.
"I'll do my best. Maybe by next week, it should be ready," he assured.
"Can you make it sooner?" she requested.
"I'll do my best, but a week is my timeline."
Their conversation was interrupted by the door swinging open.
Akash stepped in, his gaze immediately landing on Muhammad with a hardened expression. "What's he doing here again?" he asked, his tone clipped.
He moved toward the seat beside her and glanced sharply at him. "Get up and leave."
Muhammad offered a polite, "Good morning," before standing.
He turned to Anita, who gave him a nod. "I'll expect it, please—before a week if possible."
"I'll do my best, but keep in mind, research takes time," he replied, casting one last look her way before exiting.
Once he was gone, Akash settled into the vacated chair, leaning back as he eyed her. "What research?" he asked, his tone softening and he looked at her with curiosity.
"First of all, isn't it supposed to be Good morning?" she asked with a brief smile.
He sighed, then nodded, "Right. Good morning."
She gestured to the tea on her desk. "Would you like some tea too?"
He shook his head. "No, thank you."
Her expression loosened and she leaned back. "Your friends stopped by earlier. I'm not sure if they've left yet, but...."
"I spoke with them on my way here. They told me they're very proud of you."
She managed a small smile, "They may be proud, but they're extremely money-minded. I mean, it's fine to think about revenue and profits—but all the time?" She sighed, taking another sip of her tea. "They seem to think of money twenty-four hours a day."
He only hummed, then asked, "What research were you both discussing?"
She took a breath and met his gaze. "I want to use the money you sent to start a foundation—for sheltering homeless people, especially girls and women. A man has far more opportunities to support himself, but many women don't. I want to combat child marriage, support divorced women, and more. I asked him to research which state has the highest rates of these issues, so I can begin there."
He paused, then sighed. "It's a noble idea, but honestly, I don't support it."
Her face fell. "Why?"
He reached for her hand. "I love you, and I'll always try to back your dreams. But not this one. There are customs and beliefs in these places that are deeply ingrained. Look, we managed to get your father and the village leaders arrested on charges of attempted murder. It's the only charge serious enough to keep them in jail for a while, but we can't arrest everyone. And even if we could, they'd eventually be out on bail. They'd unite—and come after you."
"That's not enough to change my mind," she murmured resolutely.
He looked at her, his expression softening. "I care about you, and I'd never want harm to come your way. I'll protect you with everything I have. But starting a foundation like this could limit your freedom in ways you don't see right now. Believe me, you can't singlehandedly change a society this ingrained in its ways. Even with a strong group, stopping child marriages completely or housing every homeless person—it's impossible."
She held his gaze, her eyes unwavering. "If no one tries, nothing will ever change. I know it won't be easy, but even if I can help a few, that's enough to start with."
His fingers brushed hers gently, and he spoke again, "I'm just worried about what this might bring down on you. Once people catch on, you'll become a target for those who want to protect these old ways. And you know they'll use whatever power they have to stop you."
Her grip on his hand tightened, her voice soft yet determined. "Then let them try. I've lived too many years being afraid, bending to rules that never made sense. I have a chance now, Akash. A real chance to make a difference, even if it's small."
He studied her face, his thumb gently rubbing over her knuckles, and he sighed. "Alright. If this is truly what you want, I'll support you. Just promise me one thing—don't do this alone. Gather others who share your vision, people who can help you."
She nodded excitedly, "Thank you. I won't be alone in this. I'll find allies, others who believe change is possible. But already, having you by my side... it means everything."
He lifted her hand and pressed a warm kiss to her fingers. "Then let's make it happen together."
"Also, Mother has approved of our relationship," she shared.
He chuckled, "Then I suppose it's time we start making arrangements, right?"
"It's up to you," she replied with a smile.
He nodded thoughtfully. "Let's stop by my parents' house after the hospital. We can discuss everything and start planning the engagement."
*****
She had taken the test again.
This time, they decided to wait at the hospital for the results. After three long hours, the results were finally ready.
They were seated in the gynecologist's office, watching as she carefully reviewed the report. After a few moments of silence, the doctor looked up at them and asked, "Everything seems fine. Are you here to discuss family planning?"
"Everything is okay?" Anita asked, her voice catching as tears welled up in her eyes.
The gynecologist nodded, "According to the results, yes."
"I can have a healthy baby? Without complications?"
"Well, that's always affected by nature, but we're hopeful nothing of that sort will occur. You should be able to have a healthy baby," the gynecologist assured.
Anita burst into joyful laughter, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Akash, who shared her happiness, though he had always not bothered even if she couldn't have kids. He'd love her no matter what.
"So, do you need any advice on family planning?" the doctor asked.
"No, we're good," he replied, and they both stood up to leave, with their smiles still remaining on their faces.
****
They arrived at his parents' home—a five-story mansion that stood as an emblem of their wealth.
Stepping out of the car, they walked toward the entrance, where armed guards patrolled the grounds.
Each of them stopped when Akash and Anita passed, respectfully bowing their heads and saying, "Good afternoon, Sir, and Ma'am," their voices polite yet firm.
Inside, they went into the private elevator and rode it to the top floor.
When the doors slid open, they entered an expansive, luxurious living room that captured both classiness and gloriousness in every detail.
The room was white, from the high-end marble floors to the towering walls that gleamed under the afternoon light streaming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
The armchairs were arranged on one corner and their white leather shone under the light. On the other side were a set of royal blue sofas, each piece plush and deeply cushioned. Positioned along one wall was an enormous television, nearly the size of a projector screen.
And then finally, an Indian flag stood proudly near the entrance to the room.
The room was chilled due to the AC which was keeping the room refreshingly cool.
"Look who we have here!" His mother's voice chimed from behind, making them both to turn.
She approached them with a welcoming smile, stretching out her arms.
"Aunt," Anita greeted warmly, stepping forward and she beckoned her into an hug.
They hugged briefly before pulling back,
"Our bride," she declared with a smile that made Anita blush, her cheeks rapidly turning into a soft pink.
Akash corrected with full seriousness, "Only mine."
Her blush deepened, and his mother, still holding her hand, guided her over to the sofa.
They settled in together, her hand still resting over Anita's.
"But she's my daughter," she said while glancing at him. "You can't take that bond from me."
He shrugged, smiling. "I don't mind letting her be that."
With that, he joined them on the sofa, leaning back comfortably.
"Akash was here last night, dear and he told us about your decision to marry. Is that true?" She stared at her expectantly, and Anita nodded while shyly glancing down.
His mother chuckled. "I hoped for this the moment he told me he'd found the person he wanted to settle down with. I waited for the day you'd acknowledge his feelings, but..." she paused, casting a brief look at Akash, who was listening intently.
"When my daughter came to me with the man she wanted to marry, I asked her something I'll ask you too. Ask your heart: is it willing to stand by this man fifty years from now? Is it ready to endure every challenge by his side, through every high and low? Love can change over time, but respect is what keeps two people bound together. Can you respect and care for him, even if the romance fades? In the beginning, marriage feels like a bed of roses, but eventually, reality settles in. There will be days of disagreement, times you may go without speaking..."
She paused, turning to Akash. "I shouldn't be saying all this in front of you. Please, give us a moment alone."
He nodded, respecting the importance of the conversation.
After he left, his mother turned back to her, whose expression had then softened, now deep in thought going after what she had said.
She held Anita's hand a little tighter, looking deeply into her eyes as she began to speak again, "Anita, marriage is more than just love; it's about friendship, loyalty, and patience. There will be times when life becomes serious and moments when love becomes distant. But in those moments, respect and understanding will keep you both connected. It may feel like a fairytale at first, but every relationship has seasons. You will argue. You may go days without speaking to each other. Yet through it all, you must remember that the bond isn't built on feelings alone. It requires work and forgiveness. It means being each other's strength, even on the toughest days. That's what keeps a marriage strong."
She paused, before her voice turned serious, "Now, my dear, ask yourself honestly—are you prepared to walk this path with Akash through all the ups and downs? To hold his hand through every season, even if the love change over time?"
She took a deep breath, and met her gaze, nodding. "Yes, I am ready. I've thought about this, and I know that he's the one I want to walk beside, no matter what life brings our way."
His mother's face softened into a smile, "Then may you build a life filled with understanding and joy, and know that no matter what, you have family here to support you both."
Just then, Akash re-entered, glancing between the two of them with a curious smile. "All settled?" he asked, his eyes meeting Anita.
She looked back at his mother, who gave her a nod, then turned to Akash. "Yes," she finally replied.
"Well, I'm very happy you both came. I think this is the perfect time to start planning the engagement ceremony, don't you think?" his mother said, turning to Akash, who nodded with a smile.
"Of course," he replied.
"So, we'll have the engagement soon, but the wedding will be next year. We want everything to be perfect, so it requires careful planning. As for the engagement, we'll hold it within the next month or two," his mother continued. "We'll move things along as quickly as we can since I see you're both eager to start your lives together."
The household staff entered, carrying a tray with wine glasses, a pitcher of juice, and a plate piled with fresh cake slices.
She set it down carefully before them.
"Thank you," his mother said. "Could you also bring a pen and a notepad?"
The staff nodded and stepped out.
Turning to Anita, his mother added, "Please, feel at home. The cake is fresh. It was baked earlier today. It's my favorite, banana cake."
Anita nodded and picked up a slice, eating a bite.
The cake was wonderfully soft and bursting with a rich banana flavor that melted in her mouth.
Soon, the staff returned with the pen and notepad, and his mother gestured for her to sit nearby. "Sit. Let's start jotting down some details for the engagement."
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