Sanjana looked incredulously at the sight before her.  Her aunt had gotten so excited over a chair. Yes, a chair…or at least that’s what her aunt called it. 

            “What is it?” Sanjana asked. 

            “A chair, a cocoon chair.” Meenakshi answered. 

            Sanjana looked at her aunt questioningly.  The chair was large and looked comfortable with a soft, white seat complete with white pillows, but there was a sort of encasing around the chair that didn’t make sense to Sanjana. 

            “I bought it because it reminded me of you.  You’re so quiet and you just went through hell.  It just looked protective. I wanted you to have something that made you feel safe.” Meenakshi explained. 

            Sanjana smiled at her Aunt.  She was so thoughtful. 

            “Try it out.” Meenakshi suggested. 

            Sanjana walked over to the cocoon chair and climbed into it. Climbing into it was what was required.  One could not simply sit on the chair.  It had to be climbed into.  Sanjana found it unexpectedly comfortable.  She pulled her legs up and leaned against the pillow.  She looked around.  The chair blocked out some of her surroundings.  It’s small size made Sanjana feel like she was in her own little nook, where she could have time to herself away from the world.  Her aunt was right.  It did make her feel safe. 

            “I love it.” Admitted Sanjana. 

            “I knew you would!” Meenakshi exclaimed.  “I have a business meeting this evening, dear, so I’m going to go prepare for that and then head out.  I’m going to order food for dinner, so don’t worry about that.  I just don’t want you to get lonely.  Will you be okay?” Meenakshi told Sanjana. 

            Sanjana peeked out of her cocoon chair and nodded in response to her Aunt.  She was smiling, and Meenakshi couldn’t help but smile as well.  She was glad that the chair had made Sanjana so happy.  Sanjana felt silly that such a trivial things made her so happy.  She waited until Meenakshi left her room before scurrying to her bed and pulling out her diary from underneath her pillow.  The cocoon chair would be the perfect place to write.  It separated her from the distractions of the world, so she could focus on her writing.  Sanjana settled herself back in her cocoon chair and started writing about her lunch with Rohit and Sheila and how she felt about the whole endeavor.  She wrote about her curiosities surrounding Sheila’s mystery husband and, of course, how being around Rohit made her feel. 

            After she finished her diary entry, Sanjan decided to venture out of her cocoon to see what her Aunt was doing.  Meenakshi was seated at the dining room table with papers strewn all over the place.  Sanjana walked up to her cautiously. 

            “Sanjana! Come sit.” Meenakshi said when she saw Sanjana. 

            Sanjana took a seat beside her Aunt, careful not to jostle any of the papers on the table. 

            “I ordered dinner.  It should be here any minute.” Meenakshi said, distractedly. 

            Sanjana watched her aunt work.  After a while, she found herself bored, but she didn’t want to bother her aunth while she was working.  She heard the doorbell ring. 

            “That must be the food!” Meenakshi exclaimed.  She went to the door and came back with a few take-out containers.  Meenakshi told Sanjana not to bother with plates since they’d just end up having to clean up a big mess, so they ate straight from the takeout containers. 

            “Are you okay?” Meenakshi asked suddenly. 

            Sanjana looked like a deer caught in headlights.  She had no idea why her aunt was asking her that, but she nodded anyways. 

            “I mean…about your engagement.  Are you feeling okay about it all?” Meenakshi asked. 

            Sanjana smiled before nodding again.  Her aunt was always so concerned about her.  She wished she’d worry less. 

            “It’ll be here before you know it!” Meenakshi smiled. 

            And Meenakshi was right.  The day came in a blink of an eye.  Sanjana hadn’t really been involved in the planning of the engagement.  Meenakshi tried to get her to go shopping, but Sanjana wasn’t interested.  She was fine wearing whatever outfit Meenakshi picked out.  Meenakshi chose a long sleeved designer anarkali salwar kameez that reached the floor.  The bodice had a beautiful pink, purple, and tan floral embroidered pattern.  The outfit itself started out tan at the top and then bled into a magenta pink and into a dark purple at the bottom.  It was breathtaking.

            Sanjana got dressed and adorned herself with exquisite jewelry that her aunt insisted she wore to her engagement.  She turned around and looked at herself in the mirror.  She barely recognized herself.  She’d always dressed so simply, but now she looked exquisite.  She was sure Rohit would be impressed.  Thinking about his reaction made her blush.  There was a knock at her door, and Meenakshi came in. 

            “Oh dear, you look beautiful!” She commented.  “Are you ready?”

            Sanjana looked nervous.  She walked forward, ready to go downstairs to where everyone was waiting. 

            “Don’t worry. I’m sure Rohit will think you look great.” Meenakshi said to Sanjana as they walked down the stairs. 

            They all decided that they should just have the engagement at Meenakshi’s house.  The engagement ceremony was small.  Only Rohit’s friends and a few of his family members and some of Meenakshi’s friends were in attendance.  Rohit didn’t want to make such a big fuss about their engagement.  Meenakshi had made sure the downstairs of her house had been transformed with colorful lights and decorations.  She also arranged for a large, multi-tiered cake and fancy catering.  Sanjana’s eyes widened when she saw the decorations and the food spread and the people.  Everything looked so different, so grand.  She looked around.  She didn’t recognize anyone but Sudhir, Sheila, and of course Rohit.  The people standing closest to the staircase noticed Sanjana coming down and smiled at her beauty. 

            Sanjana focused on Rohit.  He was busy talking with Sheila and a few other young men, who Sanjana assumed worked at the same hospital as him.  She felt her heartbeat quicken as she made it down the last few steps.  Sanjana looked at her aunt for some reassurance.  Meenakshi was beaming.  Sanjana could feel herself becoming more and more calm as they made their way towards the front of the living room.  Rohit and his friends were standing off to the corner near the front.  Suddenly Rohit turned around and locked eyes with Sanjana.  She stopped.  Meenakshi felt her stop and looked at her curiously.  Rohit’s eyes brieftly looked at Sanjana’s outfit and then back up to her face.  He gave her the brightest smile possible, making all of her inhibitions disappear.  Meenaksi motioned for him to step forward, and he obliged.  He stood a few steps behind Sanjana. 

            “You look beautiful.” He whispered so that only she heard him. 

            Sanjana turned around and looked at him, slightly surprised.  She couldn’t stop the smile that threatened to appear on her lips. 

            “Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for coming out this evening!” Meenakshi announced.  “Tonight, we’re going to celebrate my niece Sanjana and Sudhir’s son Rohit’s engagement.  I’m so happy! Don’t they make a cute couple?” Meenakshi said happily. 

            The crowd started cheering in agreement.  Sanjana felt uneasy with so many people around, especially since she didn’t know anyone.  She wished her friends in India and particularly her family could’ve come.  She watched as Meenakshi handed her the jewelry box that held Rohit’s ring.  Sudhir handed Rohit another jewelry box.  Rohit carefully took out a very beautiful diamond ring and held it out to Sanjana.  Sanjana offered her hand to Rohit.  He took it, giving her a smile, and slipped the ring onto her finger.  The crowd applauded.  Next, it was Sanjana’s turn.  She took out a simple gold band from the jewelry box and slowly slipped it onto Rohit’s finger.  The crowd started cheering again, breaking out into a huge round of applause for the newly engaged couple. 

            Sudhir stepped forward and offered what seemed like a mound of presents to Sanjana.  There were assorted sarees and jewelry and other presents.  It was customary for the bride’s family and the groom’s family to exchange presents in order to make the engagement more of a bond between families instead of just between two people.  Meenakshi placed a bright red tilak on Rohit’s forehead and offered him his own fair share of presents.  Once to customs were completed, the guests were invited to enjoy a vast buffet of assorted Indian foods.  Before Rohit had a chance to introduce Sanjana to his friends, they all had to go back to the hospital.  Even Sheila had to leave.  Rohit had managed to get the night off…since it was his engagement.  He felt saddened by his friends’ departure.  He looked around for Sanjana, wondering where she had gone off to. 

            “Hey, why are you by yourself?”  He asked her, once he found her in the kitchen. 

            She turned around, obviously surprised that he’d found her. 

            “You don’t like crowds, right?” Rohit guessed correctly.  “Let’s eat.  I heard that the caterers Meenakshi Aunty got are amazing.” 

            Sanjana followed Rohit back out into the crowd.  People started congratulation them as soon as they stepped out of the kitchen.  Rohit thanked them all graciously.  Sanjana stayed close to him, feeling uncomfortable with all of the attention.  Rohit led Sanjana to the buffet and handed her a plate.  They found a place to sit, and Rohit started chatting about the food and about the engagement ceremony.  He paid careful attention to Sanjana’s face, even though Sanjana hadn’t noticed.  He wanted to make sure he didn’t bore her.  She would usually stay focused on her food, glancing up at him occasionally and nodding at what he was saying.

            “Do you want to go for a drive?” Rohit asked, as they finished eating. 

            Sanjana paused and looked up at him.  She wasn’t sure whether she wanted to go or not.  Why did he want to take her out on a drive?   Rohit noticed her hesitation. 

            “I’ll ask for Meenakshi Aunty’s permission if that’s what you’re concerned about.” He offered. 

            Sanjana bit her lip nervously.  She didn’t want to be alone with Rohit. 

            “I don’t think it’ll be a problem though.” Rohit took Sanjana’s hand and stroked her ring with his thumb. “I mean, I am your fiancé after all.”  

            Rohit went to go find Meenakshi.  When she was left alone, Sanjana started to feel anxious.  Now that she was his fiancé, did Rohit expect something from her?  What were his intentions behind wanting to be alone with her?  Rohit was back in no time.  Sanjana knew by the look on his face that her aunt had given them permission. 

            “We can go as soon as the party is over.” Rohit said, looking around to see who was left in the crowd.  “I don’t think it’ll last too much longer.” 

            “I shouldn’t.” Sanjana said, standing up. 

            “Shouldn’t what?  Go out with me?” Rohit asked. 

            Sanjana looked down nervously. 

            “I just need to talk to you about some important things, Sanjana.  I’m not going to kidnap you.” Rohit chuckled. 

            “Congratulations, my son!  I can’t believe it’s finally official. You’re getting married!” Sudhir walked up to Rohit and Sanjana.  “And Sanjana, you’re almost a part of the family!”

            “Thanks Dad!” Rohit smiled.  “By the way, Sanjana and I are going out on a drive after everyone leaves, so we won’t be around for too long.”

            “That’s fine, I’ll probably stay a while and talk with Meenakshi anyways.  There’s no need for you two to stick around with us old folk.  Now Rohit, remember to behave yourself.  You aren’t married yet.” Sudhir smiled mischievously. 

            “Dad!” Rohit replied. 

            Sanjana’s eyes widened in surprise.  She was not expecting that from Rohit’s father, and it did nothing to calm her down. 

            “I’m only joking.” Sudir laughed. 

            The last of the guests left about half an hour later.  The caterers started cleaning up, and Meenakshi got busy giving them orders.  Rohit and Sanjana left soon after.  Sanjana felt nervous, but she tried to hide it. 

            “I know you don’t want to be here.” Rohit said, once they started driving.  “I just needed to get away from everyone for a while.”

            The drive continued.  Sanjana had no idea where they were going.  She wouldn’t have known even if Rohit had bothered to tell her because she wasn’t too familiar with the city yet. 

            “After we get married, we’re going to live in my condo.” Rohit said.  “If you prefer a house, then maybe we can think about it in a few years.”

            Sanjana wasn’t sure what Rohit meant by a condo, but she was sure she’d be able to adjust to whatever his living condition was. 

            “There’s all kinds of amenities you’ll enjoy.  There’s an indoor pool and a gym.” Rohit said.  He glanced at Sanjana, noticing her slim figure, “Not that you’ll need it.” 

            Sanjana glanced out of the window as Rohit spoke.  It was so dark outside that Sanjana couldn’t make out much.  It was so unusual to her since all of the New York City nightlife she’d seen so far had been illuminated by lights of all colors.  She wondered if they were still even in New York City. 

            “Do you drive, Sanjana?” Rohit asked, knowing that the answer was probably no. 

            She shook her head. 

            “I could teach you or, if you want, you can just take a taxi if you need to go somewhere.  I don’t want you to stay cooped up in the condo all day.” Rohit said.      

            He expected her to go out alone in this big city?  Sanjana knew she wouldn’t do it.  Her little village was perfect.  She could visit everyone and go everywhere in half a day on foot.  New York was big and busy.  She felt nervous just thinking about being left alone in such a large city.  Rohit could tell she was nervous.  He didn’t know if being alone with him made her nervous or the fact that he was discussing their married life was making her nervous.  Either way, he didn’t like it.  He was feeling unnecessarily anxious.  Sheila had asked Sanjana what she thought about having kids.  He’d chastised her for getting too personal, but he himself was curious.  It was an important thing to discuss before getting married. 

            Rohit pulled over somewhere.  Sanjana looked out the window, trying to figure out where they were.  She turned to Rohit, waiting for him to continue talking. 

            “I needed to talk to you about something important actually.” Rohit said.  “Do you want children?” 

            Sanjana froze.  She remembered when Sheila had asked her, Rohit had come to her rescue, saying that it wasn’t the right time to discuss something like that.  Sanjana still felt like now wasn’t the right time. 

            “Sanjana,” Rohit said, getting her attention. 

            Sanjana nodded. A huge grin broke out on to Rohit’s face. 

            “Great! I love children, but how many we have is totally up to you.  I mean you’re the one who’s going to have to do the majority of the work.” Rohit said, smiling.

            Sanjana gave him a fake smile.  The answer was no.  She had no desire to have children ever, but she knew she couldn’t disappoint Rohit like that.  He was so happy, and she felt awful. 

            “I…um..have something else to ask you.” Rohit said. 

            Sanjana looked at him with a smile plastered on her face. 

            “Where should we go on our honeymoon?” Rohit asked. 

            Sanjana’s fake smile faded quickly. 

            “I’ve always wanted to go to Paris.  It’s the most romantic city in the world, I’ve heard.  We can go to India, if you’re missing home.” Rohit suggested. 

            Sanjana automatically placed her hand on Rohit’s.  He looked at her, a little surprised by her touch.  Their eyes met.  Rohit’s eyes saddened as soon as he saw the worry on Sanjana’s face.  She shook her head, indicating that she didn’t want to go to India.  Rohit was confused.  He thought she’d be excited with the notion of being able to go back home for a while, but that wasn’t the case. 

            “We don’t have to go to India…or Paris.  We can go anywhere you want.” Rohit said quickly.  “I just thought I’d ask so I can make the arrangements as soon as possible.” 

            Rohit started the car again and they continued their drive.  Sanjana felt drowsy as she gazed out the window.  Rohit talked about some more topics about their married life, and it all sounded fine to Sanjana.  She was too tired to completely focus on Rohit.  Her eyes started to close, when she felt the car stop.  She opened her eyes and looked out the window.  She saw the bright city lights again.  Rohit got out of the car, and walked around to Sanjana’s side to open the door for her. 

            “Come on, we’re getting ice cream.” Rohit smiled. 

            Sanjana smiled back at Rohit.  His heart lurched.  It’s the most genuine smile she’d ever given him.  She got out of the car and followed him into the ice cream parlor. 

            “What flavor do you want?” Rohit asked. 

            “Vanilla.” Sanjana said instantly.  He could hear the excitement in her voice almost as clearly as he could see it on her face. 

            “Sanjana, that’s so boring.” Rohit teased.  “But it’s your life. “ 

            Rohit and Sanjana waiting in line for their ice cream.  They were behind a bunch of children, who wanted every topping imaginable on their single scoops of chocolate ice cream.  Rohit watched Sanjana as she watched the children and their ordeal.  She seemed like she was enjoying herself.  He was afraid she’d think this was too childish of a gesture, but he was happy to see that she loved it. 

            “I’ll have Cookies N’ Cream with chocolate chips and M&Ms. A double scoop.” Rohit said to the person at the counter. 

            He turned to Sanjana. 

            “Cuz I’m a badass.” He winked at her. 

            She giggled at his immaturity.  He was adorable. 

            “And she’ll have vanilla with sprinkles.” He continued. 

            Rohit paid for their ice cream, and the lady at the counter handed them their cones.  Sanjana looked at Rohit, waiting for an explanation. 

            “Sanjana, you need a little flavor in your life.” He stated, explaining why he’d gotten sprinkles for her.  “And now it’s my job to bring that flavor.”

            Sanjana couldn’t argue with that logic.  It was the reason why her aunt had insisted she agree to marry Rohit. 

            “Damn, we need to get you home.” Rohit said.  “Maybe getting a double scoop wasn’t the brightest idea. I can drive and eat ice cream at the same time.”

            Sanjana bit back a laugh.  Rohit noticed. 

            “It’s okay to laugh once in a while.  In fact, it’s healthy.” Rohit said.

            Sanjana looked down.  They sat down at one of the tables. 

            “So I…um…I don’t know if I have the right to, but I got you something.” Rohit said, nervously. 

            He pulled out a medium sized velvet box and placed it on the table, sliding it towards Sanjana.  Sanjana carefully picked it up and opened it. They were gold bangles.  She looked up at Rohit questioningly. 

            “I just thought you should have them.” Rohit explained.  He just felt like buying Sanjana a present. 

            “Thank you.” Sanjana smiled. 

            “You’re welcome.” Rohit replied. 

            Sanjana felt a little guilty accepting a present from Rohit before they got married.  She’d never owned anything so expensive before.  Rohit noticed Sanjana admiring the bangles he’d just gifted her.  He heard a child from the adjacent table scream.  Rohit looked around and mentally kicked himself for choosing such a silly location to give Sanjana her present.  He should’ve given it to her while they were still at Meenakshi’s house.  He looked back at Sanjana.  She didn’t seem to mind that he’d ruined what should’ve been a sweet moment between them.  In fact, she looked happier than he’d ever seen her.  Maybe this wasn’t such a silly location.  Maybe they’d have to come here more often. 

            They finished their ice cream and walked back to Rohit’s car.  Sanjana had placed the box holding the bangles in her lap and left it there for the duration of the ride.  Rohit didn’t speak much.  They were close enough to Meenakshi’s house that any sort of conversation he started wouldn’t get very far before they reached their destination. 

            “Thank you for coming with me tonight.  I know it’s still a little weird for you since we aren’t married yet.” Rohit said as he walked Sanjana up to the front door. 

            They waited for Meenakshi to come and open the door.  Sanjana had such a bad habit of forgetting her key. 

            “Sanjana…I….” Rohit started to say. 

            Sanjana waited for him to continue, but instead of continuing to speak, Rohit took a step closer to Sanjana.  She wanted to move back but didn’t want to seem rude.  Rohit took another step forward.  Sanjana immediately froze.  She took a step back, not understanding Rohit’s intentions.  He leaned forward and kissed her chastely on the forehead.  Sanjana looked down as Rohit stepped back. 

            “There you two are.  I was beginning to think you two ran off and eloped.” Meenakshi swung open the door. 

            Sanjana quickly moved past her aunt and scurried into the house.  Rohit watched as she ran away from him.  Had he been too forward? 

            Rohit kissed Sanjana! On the forehead but still :P  Hehee he’s sooo cute! Ice cream and golden bangles. That’s Rohit’s idea of romance!  Anyways, hallelujah they are engaged.  They will get married VERY soon and that’s where the real drama starts! Check out Meenakshi's gift to Sanjana on the right! I want one lol! 

Tell me what you thought about the chapter!! The next update will be after 2 weeks because I’m going abroad, where there may or may not be internet, so please don’t tell me to update more quickly.  I literally can’t. 

            Okay  so COMMENT AND VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!