le into an uneasy truce. They begin navigating their engagement with a f

sort; a chance for both family to get to know ea h other for a perfect bond. That

ments-romantic photos, grand dinners, family bonding activities-l

ling against the expectations-to make certain small

ing a business decision responsibility that hi

assed, resolved of any false embellishments; and the shar

erred us to the resort

e "perfect family bonding retreat," and totally unaware that it will tak

nt-the wedding menu was hot chitchat between his and my mother's pair, my d

erheard suit-about definitely bar

ietly exhalin

argument had

he had said he was e

they were a social performance. Super luxurious resort up in the

over: hikes in the morning, a couples' spa session,

lanned down to the second

ught humanly possible. "What a real gift," I

isions. When she was told by the mothers that she had to wear a delicat

"to learn more about the family," she purposely chose a seat next

" she corrected them with a pointed: "Actually, it's Kapoor." Small

stepping in, never really scolding. I caught him smirking when I ref

e said. But I could tell he wasn't just watching. He was waiting. My father was droni

ou will have to

ing smoothly." I wouldn't argue. I never did. But for the first time, I hesit

ra to handle it alone. I rubbed my temples. This was my life: trying to balance obligations and pretendin

e distr

bring my face into some sort of neutrality. "J

expect you to handle this." I nodded. "I will." I have always

chair, gazing fixedly into the night sky. "You're not tired?" I quizzed.

playing a role in a play you didn't audition for?" Dry laugh escaped me. "Every da

p breath. "More

nized me.

stare. "Why

e not to

he truth. The truth th

ould

out cons

trace some sort of pattern on the armrest. "You know, fo

Careful, Meera-it almost

yes but refused

the silence betwee

ething els

ing un

er of us was pr

was t

sn't comi

in. Moment of uncertainty

ally wanted this" Her voice wa