"Those were the craziest thirty minutes of my life," Nisha muttered.

With an exhilarated huff, Kabir smiled, "I loved the last one though. The zombies were interesting." 
"Yeah, that's why you kept leeching onto me. I now know why you bought the handcuff package. Selfish ass." She side-eyed him as he awkwardly shifted in his place. 
"What should we do now?" He asked.

She shrugged, "No idea. How about we eat something?" 
"Sure. There's a nice restaurant nearby." 

Kabir leisurely approached Nisha as they walked towards the exit. He sneakily secured his hands around hers as she turned towards him. 
"What's this now?"
"Holding hands." 
She laughed, shaking her head, "Seriously..."

A rush of ecstasy ran through him when her laugh intensified, "The more I think about the things you did today, I can't help laughing." 
"Then I should do these things more often to hear your laugh." He smiled. 

Her actions halted as she processed his words.

Looking away, she shook her head. 
"Shut up." 
"Can't, sorry." 

They approached the car and he opened the door for her. With a suppressed smile, she sat inside, watching him gleefully sit in the driver's seat.
Turning towards her, he asked, "Should I buckle your seatbelt?" 
"I can do it by myself." She said.
"Alright, I'll do it for you." He leaned closer, cautiously buckling in the seatbelt as she chortled, "Are you for real like this or faking it?" 

He paused briefly, giving her a tipped smile. 

"Learning." There was a glint of thoughtfulness in his words, making her smile softly. Her lips part to say something but his ringing phone interrupts. He checked the caller ID and sighed, shaking his head. 
Turning off his phone, he gives her a soft smile before gripping the steering wheel.

"Kabir." She unsurely mumbles. 
"Yes, Nisha?" 
"Is there something troubling you?" It took her a moment to process her own question. 

Was it the right decision to ask him? She didn't know.

He shrugged, "Nothing much. It's just family stuff." 
"Oh." She nods, glancing outside the window. The urge to ask a few more questions surfaces at the back of her head but she restrained herself, not wishing to make him uncomfortable. 
He noticed her expression and sighed, glancing out of the window a few times.

"Do you want to share?" She asked.

Not getting any response, she hummed, "It's okay if you don't want to. Whatever it is, I hope you tackle it well, Kabir."

He hummed shortly.

A sense of dejection aroused within her but she forced it down, acknowledging the situation from his point of view.

"Can we meet a few days later?" She asked, nervously checking his face.
With a small shake of his head, he replied, "A week or two later since the workload's heavy right now. The country's entrepreneurship is not yet highly developed so we're facing some struggles. Also, I'll be in my hometown for a few days after a week or so." 

"Hometown? Why though?"

"Just so..." His reply was short.

And she understood it was personal. Yeah, she got it.

Yet, disappointment gushed over her. Was it so personal? She was worried for him but a sense of dejection worked in her. 
Did he not find her reliable or trustworthy enough to share?

She couldn't help but let a thousand thoughts roam around her head. Was there any way to help him? She pondered.
If she could be of the least help to him, it'd be a huge blessing to her.
"If you need any help, ask me, okay?" 

"What help would I need from you?" He asked, raising a brow playfully. She wondered about it, "Maybe... if it's too hard on you then I wouldn't know what to do. But if it's something I can give you — like a hug, I'll always be there." 

His face turned towards her as he blinked twice, looking away. For a second, she wondered if she had witnessed a sense of guilt in those dark eyes.

"Thank you." 

His tone held a sadness in them. A void that Nisha couldn't interpret. But for all that she knew, the urge to be with him was growing deeper and stronger inside of her. And there was nothing more that she wanted than being his comfort at that moment. 

Leaning onto the seat, she watched him drive quietly as they shared a few small talks. The air felt tense and cold, confusing. All this while, he had been okay. What was up with him now?

—Time skip—

"Maa, see... Kabir is achieving great success." Nisha pointed at the Facebook post as her mother raised a brow, "Wow, that's great. I thought he wasn't that capable."
"Who said so? He went abroad with a scholarship... and got enough training. He studied there for almost five years and the rest of the time, he did extra jobs and made a portfolio to flourish his business in this country. Brilliant, right?" She dramatically asserted, hoping for a reaction from her mother. 

The elder woman nodded, fixing her saree. 
"That's nice. Where's my chai though?" 
"Bindu is bringing it." Nisha sighed, shifting her chair closer to her mother's. She accidentally hit her elbow on the edge of the dining table, causing her to hiss. 
"Are you okay?" Her mother frowned, shifting forward.

She shrugged, "I'm fine, Maa."
"You're so clumsy, oh god." 

She scrolled Facebook posts on her phone as her mother stared at the screen with her.

A recent post from Priti and Shams appeared on the screen. 

They both were looking so happy, joking about something. 

"They look so happy," Nisha whispered, glancing at her mother who stared at the picture. Her eyes were filled with fondness and satisfaction seeing her daughter's enlivened face. 
"Yeah, they do." She nodded, taking the phone from Nisha as she zoomed into the picture, admiring their faces. 

"That's called true love, taina?" 

Her mother shrugged, "How would I know? This generation is so different... back when I got married, all I knew was my parents were glad about it. It was only a matter of a week until I was at someone else's house, taking care of my husband's household. Love wasn't something I could think of." 
"But, I think when Baba cuts fruits for you after an argument and makes the bed for you when you're sick... or... brings your favourite snack from outside is also love." She smiled.

The elder woman contemplated her daughter's words before smiling slightly. 
"Could be so. But, love isn't even a huge factor in most marriages. You just somehow make do with the other person and live your life." 

"Love is important, though. When you marry someone you love, you're so much happier. Marriage, whether it's with someone you love or not, brings a lot of responsibilities and pain. But when it's with someone you genuinely want to be with. You'd strive through all hardships easily. It would be more memorable overcoming hurdles for love than nothing." She said.

Her mother smiled, "I've never heard you say such things. For a second, I'd think you're in deep love... like those Bollywood movies."

Something inside her shifted at her mother's statement.

Deeply in love?

With...?

A face popped at the back of the head but she shook her head, ignoring her thoughts. 
"I mean, I'm just stating facts."
"Anyway, what do you want for your birthday this year?" Her mother asked and deep down, Nisha was more than grateful that she changed the topic. 

"What else if not my gajorer halua? You know well that's my favourite!" She giggled, earning a soft hum from her mother.

"Of course. We should invite the youngsters if you don't have plans. The house is usually empty since Adil and Adisha are at their grandparents' house. Your dad stays outside most of the time as well." 

"You mean, Shams and Priti?"
"Yeah and the monkies that come as a BOGO offer." Her mother's statement earned a laugh from both of them. 
"Seriously, Maa?"
"Just kidding, they're quite funny."

Nisha's mouth opened to say something but she was interrupted by her ringing phone. Glancing at her mother's confused stare, she hid the caller ID. 
Kabir surely found the most amazing times to call her. 

"Who is it?"
"Oh... um, it's a friend." 
"Who?" 

For a second, she wanted to run away from the scene but couldn't. 
"Sara!" 
"Oh." 

"Yeah, let me pick up." She got up, rushing away immediately leaving her dubious mother in the living room. As soon as she picked up, her lips halted midway. 

"Nisha!" 

There went his voice that she loved to hear.

"Why did you call me?" She asked, still irritated about how sneaky she had to be around her mother. 
"You don't sound quite happy. Is everything alright?"
"It wouldn't be if I didn't lie." She whispered, earning a 'huh' from the other side.
"What happened?" 
"You called me right when I was with Maa. I can't tell her it's you because then she'll ask why you called and... I can't tell her why." 

A few beats of silence passed by as he asked, "What can't you tell her?"
"I told you just now. The reason you call me, of course." 
"And why do I call you?" His tone was intrigued, causing her to rethink her words for a few moments. 
"Nisha?" Another call reached her ears as she hummed, "Yeah, listening."
"You didn't tell me why." 

"Um... because... I don't know?" 
"You know the answer, why are you playing dumb?" His tone was obvious, causing her cheeks to heat up, "You tell me since you called." 
He chortled.
"Because I miss you." 

She knew the answer already. Yet, the shyness didn't leave her body when his words processed into her brain, slowly seeping into her veins as well. Everything he said was carved into her memory.

"How's work?" She asked.
"Say it back." His demanding tone didn't faze her. She knew he'd say that. With a playful smile which he couldn't see, she tsked, "Why should I? I don't miss you." 
"Really?" 
"Yes." 
"Okay. Then I'll hang up—"
"Stop!" She scowled, side-eyeing the phone pressed to her cheek. 
"You know it." 
"Say it." 

"Okay. I missed you too." 

She heard him huff lightly, "There. That's my woman." 
"I'm not your woman." She retorted, earning a chuckle from him. 

Was his mood better? She wondered.

"Have you eaten, Kabir?" 
"Yep, I did. You?"
"I will, soon. How's work?" 
"Going pretty well, actually... but these days, the workload's increasing again. I think it'll take a long time for this all to become stable. Also, I'm leaving for my hometown tomorrow. Might be back after a few days. I'll return before your birthday so don't worry, you'll see my handsome face." 

She chuckled, "Did I ask to see your face?"
"I know well you want to." 

He didn't have to know everything, she thought. But she loved it when he confidently assumed things which were a hundred per cent true. 

"How are you feeling today?" She asked.

But was met with silence for a few moments until he spoke, "Absolutely stunning. Why?" 
"You seemed down that day."
"Ah, it's nothing. Don't worry." 

She could sense how badly he wanted to avoid the topic and nodded, changing the topic for him, "You know, I've been very busy with these... dramas online. They're so fun to watch." 

They talked for some more time until Nisha lost track of time. She heard a few noises coming from his background and asked, "Kabir, are you busy?"
"Not really... I just need to do some work and all, that's it." 
"You should complete that first. I can hear your colleagues screaming your name accompanied with colourful curses." She pressed her lips. 
"About that, I can go a little later. I haven't talked to you in days." 

She smiled. 

"I'll call you tonight, okay? Now go and work. Know your priorities." 
"I know my priorities, Nisha. Don't you see that?" 

She was about to speak but another loud noise came from his background as she hurriedly bid him goodbye, hanging up.

"What does he mean by he knows his priorities?" She whispered to herself, a soft smile adorning her face as a few thoughts ran through her head.

— A week later —

Nisha stared at the interior design displayed on her computer. 
Fixing her glasses, she sighed. 

"Why did Kabir ask me to design his studio for him? This is a little complicated." She whispered to herself. 
Usually, her confidence stayed level while designing projects but knowing it was for Kabir, a sense of alarm arose in her. What if he didn't like it?
"I can't believe I bother so much about what he thinks. What's wrong with me?" 

Another thought brushed past her mind. Kabir had been barely contacting her these days. And she had absolutely no idea why. The only few times he texted her was to know whether she ate or to tell her about his new studio plans. 
"I hope he's doing fine." She whispered.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the loud knock on the door.

"Yes?" She rushed from her seat, unlocking the door to be met with her mother's face. She gave her a confused look, glancing at the computer screen behind her.
"You're working on something?"
"Yeah, just... trying out some designs." 
"Okay... I won't ask about your work plans. I fully trust you in your plans." The elderly woman smiled, caressing her green saree as Nisha backed away, making space for her mother to enter the bedroom.

"Why did you knock?" She asked. 
"Just wanted to tell you that your father got a call this morning. His friend will be visiting from the U.S. He has a son somewhat your age, maybe a few years older..." Her tone faded at the end. 
Nisha frowned, "Um, okay? And?" 
"So... I mean, he didn't mention it directly but I have doubts your father and his friend have some plans in their minds."

"Clarify, Maa." She spoke in a low voice, feeling her chest twist in discomfort. 
"Your marriage. You're already the age of getting married... though Priti married pretty late, your father now wants to speed up your one." 
"But— I can't—" She halted, feeling her mother's confused gaze on her and gulped.

"I mean, I don't even know the guy..."

She nibbled on her lower lip, clutching onto her t-shirt anxiously. 

Her mother gave her a lighthearted smile, "I know, dear. We're not asking you to marry him. I just want you to know beforehand. Your father seems very excited. I know he won't force you in this matter but he'll be disappointed if you reject so... think about it." 

Nisha sat at the edge of her bed, staring into the void.

What the fuck was wrong with her life?

"Can I get one second of peace?" She whispered to herself. 
"Did you say something?" Her mother's voice reached her ears in a muffled tone as she shook her head. 
"I'll go then, Adil and Adisha are asking for something to eat." 

All she could do was nod in response. 

While her entire life she had been single, not a single man came into her life's frame. Now that she had someone she liked, what was this drama?

"I've never said no to a single thing Baba asked." She swallowed, falling on the bed in despair.

————

Nisha stared at the phone in her hand, watching the screen turn black after a few rings. Kabir, in no way, was picking up her call. 
A deep, loud sigh escaped her lips.
"What the heck is up with this guy now?" 

She was worried and confused. He wasn't the type to avoid her. 

— On the other hand —

"What do you mean that client is mad? We served the best plan." Kabir groaned, sliding his hair back in annoyance. 
A few seconds later, he hung up, tossed the phone on the sofa near his desk and sat down. 

He heard his phone ring a few times but the energy drained within him. 
"Just this morning, I hear about the property bullshit and now this..." He shook his head, staring at the blank ceiling. Thoughts jumbled in his headspace while all he could think about was how he felt dull every single day. 

The past few days had been hard on him. 

While his family was tangled in a mess of properties, his work life was messing up. He knew entrepreneurship was tough, but this was confusing. 

Problems came together, not in turns. 

"I should talk to Nisha..." He whispered to himself once the thoughts settled in, reminding him of how distant they had been recently. More like, he had barely contacted her. 
She did, several times. But he was too low to continue the communication.

"It's okay... I'll be fine." He got up, took a deep breath and exited the room, approaching his mother who was busy cutting vegetables. 
"Maa, what did uncle say?" He asked. 
She gave him a blank look, shrugging. 
"What else? It's next week... Oh, also, I think there's some party Shams and Priti were talking about. Shams called me saying you're not reachable at all."

He wasn't.

He avoided every call he got from friends and family. He had no idea how it all happened but for all he knew, it did. And he was stuck.

"Oh, I'll talk to him about it later." He said, looking down. A feeling of guilt aroused in him as he ran a palm through his face. 

He was demotivated. And stressed.