It had been a little bit more than a week since the proposal. The few times the newly betrothed couple had managed to meet after work, their joy had been clearly evident in their gleaming eyes and radiant smiles. Sameer had noted with great satisfaction that Naina's lingering anxiety seemed to have ebbed post their new relationship status. But he had also been surprised, wondering - Was she unsure of my feelings and intentions so far??!

Naina also noticed a slight shift in their interactions. He started talking more of the future. Sometimes he made fleeting refences to holiday destinations to be added to their To-Visit list, and at times he spoke more about his life in London or the improvements that he deemed necessary to his flat. He had spoken to her of his friends and family in UK in the past too, but now it was accompanied by very specific details like; the name of the suburb, time taken to travel, and sometimes the bus numbers too. Almost like he was prepping her for living there.

His references to a future together were mostly reassuring but still tinged with some slight undertones of uncertainty for Naina. Not wanting to risk bursting their new, rosy happy-bubble, she struggled with the dilemma of voicing certain reservations.

* * *

The wristwatch placed on the side table beeped, signalling it was midnight. The room was dark, with just some moonlight peeping through a small gap in the window curtains. But Sameer lay wide awake in his bed, dwelling on events from earlier in the day.

He had wanted to do something different to what they usually did on Sundays, which mostly consisted of lunch followed by a stroll. Something romantic!

Sameer had insisted that they meet earlier than usual, about 11 am, and had picked her up from the bus stand. Naina had been extremely intrigued by his unwillingness to share anything about his plan. But as they left the city behind and he shook his head in negation at her questions – Are we going to a Dhaba? For a long drive?? To a Mandir??, - her intrigue slowly turned to apprehension.

About twenty minutes into the drive, she announced grumpily "Sameer, I am going to jump out of this car if you don't tell me where we are heading!" He mocked "Wow! Thank you so much for your trust! I was under the illusion that you would be happy to follow me to the ends of the earth... At least, that's what lovers usually vow to, right? And you can't even let me lead for half an hour!"

Looking chastised, she muttered "I trust you... but where are we going?? You know I have to be back home by five. Some acquaintances are coming over to visit Nani." He grumbled "Why do you have to be there? They are coming to visit the recuperating patient!" and then stated "Well, make some excuse when you get home. Cause it won't be possible for you to get home by then." She pestered him again "Where are you taking me?!" and then, seemingly drawing some conclusion, she added "Oh! Are we going to meet that supplier I recommended to Deepu?"

Sameer rolled his eyes "Why would I want spend my Sunday and the limited time I get with my pretty fiancée on checking out suppliers for Deepu?!" Her face scrunched as she pondered his words.

Sometime back, after being assigned to a new project for the renovations of a large chain of hotels, Deepika had reached out to Naina for help. She had recalled some brass items that she had seen during her previous trip to India, which she felt would add a very unique touch to the décor. Post some brainstorming over couple of phone calls, Naina had found some contacts through her network of handicrafts providers and shared those with her. Deepika and her colleagues had now arrowed down on one specific supplier and were finalizing the order and delivery details.

Sameer complained "Naina, some other girl in your shoes would have been so excited that her fiancé is taking her on a mystery date... and look at you!" She whined again "Why couldn't you arrange this mystery date in Ahmedabad? What's so special about this place??" He smirked "Privacy." Her heart did cartwheels, and she mumbled "Privacy... what do you mean? Sameer... please tell me..." He sighed "You're completely ruining my surprise. We're going to my cousin's farmhouse and I have a picnic packed in the back for us. I think it will be the perfect place to get away to and spend some quality time together." She asked, recalling something, "Where you had attended a get-together with your cousins after Rohan's wedding?" When he nodded, she sounded uncertain "Who will be there?" He squinted at her "Hello... I just said, 'quality time'... of course, it will be just the two of us."

Naina's eyes bulged "You told your cousin about taking me there for some privacy?? What's wrong with you?!" He quickly squashed her doubt "Don't be daft! I told him I was planning to take some colleagues over for a team-bonding activity. He was only too happy to hand over the keys." She pondered his words for a moment and then announced, "We are not going to that farmhouse!" He tried to reason "Why not?? It's a lovely day... the garden there has been designed to fit with the natural landscape. I'm sure you will love it." To his surprise, she was adamant "Sameer, I don't want to go there. Can you imagine the scandal if your family hears about it?"

He uttered impatiently "Stop being so over dramatic! We are just going there for a picnic. And no one will hear about it... it's rather secluded. Who is going to tell them? The birds and bees???" His last few words only heightened her anxiety and she dug in her heels "No, means no." Sameer unexpectedly pulled the car to the side of the road. In reply to her questioning gaze, he snapped "Looks like we will be enjoying the picnic by the roadside now! So might as well stop here, right?!"

Mentally preparing herself for the tantrums she knew were likely to follow, she now spoke, in what she hoped would be a soothing tone, "Sameer, please don't get upset. I just don't want any complications..." He huffed in reply "What complications? You are always overthinking! And so, what if the family finds out... you are my fiancée! Or are you still not convinced of my intentions?" Naina countered "You are the one who doesn't want to tell your family yet! I told you to talk to them and then talk to mine."

He muttered, looking uncomfortable, "I already explained. I don't want to share this news with Mom and Dad while that Dadi is staying with them. I will talk to them in a few weeks after she returns to Delhi. You don't know her. She'll create unnecessary hassles." Naina nodded "And I agreed, right? So, why do you want to take risks?" She added grumpily "Last time when we were in that restaurant, we ran into your Anjali Masi's niece... I can't understand how we keep meeting your acquaintances when I have lived here my whole life!"

After staring out of the window for about half-a-minute, sounding dejected, he made a move to start the car "Lets head back. Forget the picnic, we can grab lunch at some decent restaurant on the way back." Quickly covering his hand, Naina said "We can find another place for the picnic. And it doesn't have to be the roadside! A little ahead, there is temple by the riverside." He exclaimed "Temple?! What are we planning? A picnic or a pilgrimage?!" She chuckled "Aare baba... there is a nice garden near the temple. I had once gone there with a school trip. It's not very far... I think, maybe another fifteen minutes..."

Not able to think of anything better, Sameer followed her advice. The distance turned out to be greater than expected and took them closer to half-an-hour to get there. The temple was closed for the afternoon, but luckily the garden was open. After glancing around, Sameer reluctantly acknowledged "It's a nice spot."

While Naina watched him adoringly, Sameer spread out a small, old rug and set up the little picnic, made of a packet of crisps, some juice boxes, a box of sandwiches and a big bar of Cadbury. Her smile reached the depths of her heart, as he recounted Champa's great surprise that morning when he had entered the kitchen and made the sandwiches himself. He shared how picnics in the park during summertime had been big part of his childhood. Never before, had Naina relished simple tomato and cucumber sandwiches as she did that day.

After their bellies and hearts were full, Sameer packed everything away in the car and they wandered towards the water. Summer had left much of the riverbed exposed. A couple of lads were trying to coerce a few buffaloes, which had happily submerged themselves in a spot where the water was deeper, into exiting the river. A group of pre-pubescent girls, sent to fetch some water, had abandoned their pots to one side and were instead splashing each other. Sameer's attempts at romance, as he slipped his arm around Naina's waist, resulted in some giggles and loud whispers from these girls - "Ekdum hero hai!". Smiling back at them, as she snuggled closer to him, Naina light-heartedly called out "Hero to hai... par mera hai!" This led to more laughter. When Naina conveyed the exchange to him, her hero, winked back at the girls, beaming widely. Which of course set a lot of young hearts a-flutter!

Languidly observing the view, Naina muttered "There is something so charming about these quaint scenes." Chuckling softly, she added "For some reason, I have never liked buffaloes. But I remember this one tour when we had some foreigners, and they couldn't get enough photos of them!" He smiled "Because we don't have them in Europe. You will find many cows but no buffaloes." And then added laughing "For all you know, you might start liking them out of nostalgia!"

Naina nervously licked her lip and pointed to a large peepal tree "Shall we sit down for a bit? I want to talk to you about something..." As they settled down, she pushed back the hair from her face and started tentatively "Sameer, I... I think you are keen to head back... but I can't move to London." He was startled "Can't move to London... why not?!" then inferring something, he put his arm around her shoulder and continued "Naina, I can understand you must be apprehensive about the move, but I will be with you. And not just me... my family... Deepu and Ollie... we will all help you settle-in."

Feeling torn, she muttered "It's not that. I mean, of course the thought of moving to a western country is slightly scary... but that's not it." Seeing his baffled expression, she explained "Sameer, the circumstances in my home are not hidden from you. How can I leave Maa and Nani on their own?" He sounded unsure "What are you saying? Do you not plan to marry? Naina, you did not object when I proposed... you accepted, right??" She tried to clarify "I am not saying no to marriage... just to moving to London..."

He sounded incredulous "You want your husband to become a Gher-Jammai? Is that what your mother will want? Or does she not want you to marry?" She tutted "Oh ho... not that... why will Maa want a Ghar-Jamaai? And of course, she is only too eager to get me married!" "Then what is the problem? Just the move to London?? Why?" he couldn't make any sense.

"Sameer, I can't stop working... I want to keep helping Maa financially even after I get married." She finally got to the heart of the matter. But he still couldn't see the problem, "When did I say that you should stop working? I am more than happy for you to keep supporting Auntie and Naniji. In fact, I will pitch in too."

Naina frowned "How can I keep working in London? I won't be qualified to be a tourist guide there. It's not that easy Sameer, you have to really know the place in and out... the culture, the history." He muttered "Well, you can always do something else. We will figure it out once you get there." She wasn't convinced "Maa needs my support. Sameer, she won't easily agree to taking help from me once I marry... But I know she needs it. What if it takes me years to find my feet there?" As he started "Hey, I will be more than willing to support them", she cut him off "I can't let you do that! Maa will never agree to it either. You know she's too proud to accept financial help from you."

Sameer silently contemplated for a bit, before asking "Naina, if my parents are unwell... or my siblings need your assistance with something... will you help them and look after their needs? Right now, Mom and Dad are healthy, but they will age. And will need our help." She quickly uttered "Of course! Why would you even doubt that?" He questioned "So how is that different to me helping your family? Time is money. What exactly is the difference between you helping out in terms of time or effort and me helping out financially?" Not able to counter his argument with a logical response, Naina fiddled with the strap of her watch "It's different Sameer. Maa will not agree. And your parents might not approve of it either. They might think we are taking advantage of you. Please..."

He went quite for some time again and then spoke "Let's not dwell on this for now. Anyway, the new setup in Ahmedabad will take time. It's going to be at least ten to twelve months. And even after that it will be a while before everything is settled. Naina, I don't mind spending the next few years in India. Meanwhile we can start looking into any alternative career options for you. Let's find out if any Indian tour operators would be keen to hire a local Indian tour guide able to converse with the tourists in Hindi." Though not convinced with the last idea proposed by him, Naina decided to put the conversation on hold for the time being. If he is willing to settle in India, that will solve the problem anyway!

After strolling around some more, they returned to Ahmedabad.

Sameer rose from the bed to draw open the window wider. The weather had turned rather muggy since evening. Guzzling some water, he stood by the window deep in thought. In an attempt to allay her apprehensions, he had quickly assured Naina that he was willing to leave in India for a few years. But is this what I really want? The move to India, in pursuit of his long-lost love, had felt like an adventure. But how long would the thrill of the adventure last? And did he really want to embrace this life, so far removed from the comforts of his life in London filled with familiar places and faces? So, many questions without any clear answers! As he returned to bed, Sameer thought grumpily – And so much for trying to plan some romantic private time with her!

Miles away, Naina too was sleepless in Khed. A part of her was relieved that she had voiced her reservations about the move to London, and yet she was afraid she was asking too much of him. But she hadn't envisaged another solution to her family's challenges. As much as she wanted to find her happily-ever-after, it couldn't be at the cost of leaving her mother to struggle all by herself. After all, who knows what other difficulties could be coming up? Nani is still recovering from the surgery... what if...

Trying to keep any negative thoughts at bay, Naina diverted her mind towards more upbeat ones. Thinking about his idea for a romantic date made her smile. As he had spoken of his childhood memories, Naina had found herself imagining themselves with a couple of kids running around. And dear lord! He is definitely very keen on some 'private' time! Another part of her mocked – Oh really? Is it only him and not you?? I am well aware of every thought that runs through your mind! She pressed her face into her pillow trying to muffle a groan. No, it isn't just him!

For years, after him, she had wondered at her indifference to men in general. Even the hottest guys, not that there had been many around her but the ones on the screen, had not excited her passions in the least. She would find them cute or good-looking, but they hadn't accelerated her heartbeats. The idea of physical intimacy with anyone else had never occurred. In fact, the one time the probability had crossed her mind, when the prospective groom had visited her family, a sense of dread had engulfed her. And believing herself to have been so badly used by him, even infrequently indulging her cravings for Sameer had always been followed by guilt and misery.

That night in Dasi Mahal when he had arrived at her door in a drunken state and kissed her again, Naina has felt all the buried passion suddenly break free. His touch seemed to hold the key.

(Yeh unn dinon ki baat hain, jab humri duniya mein touch activated devices ka concept nahi tha... aaj kal toh har kissike ke paas magical fingers hote hain aapne phone ya ipad ka lock kholne ke liye!)

Since his return to India, the challenge of maintaining distance had only amplified. The temptation to seek solace in his embrace surfaced far too often. In fact, so much that when he had proposed marriage, to her great chagrin, she had misinterpreted it for 'making out'! But then, post her acceptance, they had ended up kissing and fondling each other. So, it hadn't been very far from his mind too!

But realizing how caught up she had been in that moment, had rattled Naina a lot. Was it only the knowledge that they weren't alone in that house that had pulled her back? She wasn't sure. Nor did she want to risk finding out. His plan for a cozy picnic at his cousin's farmhouse had set off some very noisy alarm bells for her. And so, she had protested in earnest, using the pretext of wanting to avoid any unnecessary family gossip.

At some point she drifted off to sleep dreaming of his broad shoulders, strong arms, and his devilishly handsome face.

* * *

Two days later, the phone rang in the Somani household at about half five in the morning startling its inhabitants. Vivek answered it fearing the worst about his ailing aunt, while Vishakha pulled herself into a sitting position and started listening in rapt attention. To her surprise, Vivek passed the phone to her muttering "It's your cousin Anjali from Ahmedabad..."

Vishakha immediately enquired "Anjali, is Mamaji okay?" Her cousin responded "Mummy-Papa are perfectly fine." Her heart lurching, Vishakha asked "Is Sameer okay??" Anjali huffed "How would we have any idea?! Even after so many invitations, he has visited us only once." Vishakha gestured to her husband that all was okay and that he could return to bed. Slipping out of the bed, she moved to the other room muttering "Yes, he has the habit of drowning himself in work whenever any new project starts."

Not able to understand the reason behind this unexpected call, Vishakha asked "So, is there any good news about Rinki beti?" Anjali grumbled "Not yet... I don't understand these girls. All of them want to live abroad! A very good proposal had come last month. Engineer, only son with a two-bedroom flat in Andheri. But she said the boy is short." Vishakha sympathized "I know... kids these days. We would just agree to whatever our parents decided. But this generation has such strong views. I worry about Sameer too." Anjali quipped "As you should! He lives so far from home... it would be a shame if he gets influenced by the wrong sort of girl. After all, you all will have to deal with her for the rest of your lives too!"

Vishakha remarked unconcerned "He is too busy with his work to have any time for any girls! I was really hoping he would agree to the match with Sanjana's cousin" Anjali interjected "Well, from what I have heard he has enough time for that Naina!" Not following the implications, Vishakha mumbled "Naina? Who? That guide??" Anjali exclaimed triumphantly "Exactly! That's the one! You wouldn't know, but they have been spending a lot of time together." Vishakha responded "Don't talk in circles! Tell me clearly what you know."

Over the next few minutes, Anjali explained how her niece had run into Sameer and Naina few days back in a restaurant. Sameer had introduced her to Naina and mentioned that she had been in the same accident as Anjali during Rohan's wedding. The friend accompanying the niece had shared that she had frequently seen the couple there. Post some not-so-discreet enquiries in the family, Anjali had learnt that Prabha had also found Naina in Sameer's home during one of her visits to Ahmedabad, as had some other cousin.

"Vishakha, I hope you don't mind my sharing all this. But, like you, we all want the best for our Sameer! I have been so worried these last few days that I couldn't even sleep properly. Did you know that he is meeting her?" Anjali felt lighter having cautioned her cousin. Vishakha mumbled "Thanks for letting me know. I will talk to him." Then attempting to quash some of the speculation, she added "I know Deepika has kept in touch with her. They have formed a good friendship. Sameer must have met her just like that... He is new to the place." Anjali added her two cents "When we all are here, what is the need for new friends? Tell him to visit us more frequently. Mummy also keeps asking about him every day! And I am sure Rinki and he will have much in common to talk about."

After repeated assurances from Vishakha that she would talk to him, and some other chit-chat, the call ended.

Mulling over the conversation, Vishakha fixed herself a cup of tea. Settling in a chair, aware that Sameer would not be at home at that time of the day, she dialled the Ahmedabad home number.

When Champa answered as expected, Vishakha enquired about things in general and then about Sameer in greater detail. Champa happily shared how she was now cooking and carrying out all his chores as per his specifications. She assured Vishakha that just the day before when he seemed to be catching a cold, she had made the kadha for him just as Didi had told her to. 

Post some more questioning Vishakha ended the call and sat stunned.

As per Champa, 'Naina Didi' seemed to have a well-established presence in the Sameer's life. It was clear that, though she didn't visit as much, Champa had grown used to receiving frequent instructions from Naina over the phone.

Vishakha tried to assure herself that they were probably just friends, but many doubts had now crept in. Why does he not mention her to me? If they are just friends, then why not tell me how often they meet? But her protective motherly instincts were stronger – My poor baby... he is far too simple to understand people's motives. He must be just looking for a friend in the new place, but I doubt that her intentions are so harmless!

* * *

The same evening, when Sameer met Naina for coffee, she listened in horror as he shared "Thank God, we didn't go to the farmhouse on Sunday! My cousin had called me today to ask why I cancelled the team building activity. Apparently, he had driven over with some snacks to make sure that everyone felt welcomed!" Just the thought of what his family might have assumed after finding them alone in an isolated location left Naina with a damp brow. Naina, you would have lost all your credibility with them even before being introduced to them! She renewed her resolution to avoid any un-chaperoned trysts with him.

Unknown to them, she had already become a topic of some gossip in his family and was causing her future mother-in-law more than a little anxiety!

Vishakha had visited her daughter the day after Anjali's call. She hoped to gain Deepika's support, knowing she had Sameer's ear more than anyone else in the family. Deepika had been surprised that her mother had chosen to venture into London on a weekday evening, as she lately tried to avoid the evening rush of daily commuters.

Deepika placed a mug of tea and a plate filled with her mother's favourite shortbread on the small breakfast table in her kitchen. As she turned to stir the pasta sauce she had on the simmer, she remarked "Call up Dad and tell him that you will be eating dinner here. I am trying a new recipe today..."

Noting her mother's troubled demeanour, she asked, sounding sympathetic "Is Dadi giving you a hard time again? What is she complaining about now?? I thought with her favourite Rohan happily married now she would finally be out of things to grumble about!" She added with a mischievous smile "You know what?! You should send her to stay with Rohan and Sanjana for a week or so. That way she will have someone new to complain about!"

Vishakha smiled slightly at her daughter's wit, but she sat silently sipping on her tea. Knowing she wouldn't be able to hold it in for much longer anyways, Deepika controlled her urge to ask her mother to spit what was bothering her.

As expected, Vishakha spoke soon, but it wasn't what Deepika had been expecting. "Are you in touch with that Naina?" Deepika stilled for a moment and then, turning to her sauce again, replied "Of course... did I not tell you that she has helped me find a supplier for the new project?" Vishakha was surprised "What supplier?!" Trying to keep her voice even, Deepika said "Oh... maybe I forgot to mention it. I have been talking to her more these days about some brass items I want for that hotel project. She has been very helpful. Bhai is also helping me with the import related process."

Taken aback by this new information, Vishakha asked "So Sameer has been meeting her for your work??" Deepika shrugged "Well, it's not all for me... I mean, they get along well. Bhai enjoys her company." Taking in her mother's disgruntled look, Deepika huffed "Mom, what's the problem? She is a lovely girl. And it's not like he has any other friends there!"

Her mother shot back "Our relatives are complaining that he doesn't have time to visit them. But he has time for befriending other girls?? And why did you have to put him in touch with her? There are so many good shops with brass curtain rods here in London itself!" Deepika rolled her eyes "I am not after curtain rods... and why are you getting so worked up about Bhai spending time with her? You are the one who is always after him to find a nice girl and get married!"

"Where did marriage come from?!" Vishakha almost shrieked. Mentally cursing herself for the slip of tongue, Deepika tried to do some damage control "Mom you are getting hyper over nothing! I am not saying Bhai is getting married tomorrow... just that what's the harm in him looking around. And who have you been talking to? Has Dadi been filling you head with some rubbish? Please ignore her. You know how she enjoys winding you up!"

To Deepika's relief, Ollie arrived and the rest of Vishakha's visit was spent discussing more mundane topics.

* * *

Post the conversation with her daughter, which had done nothing at all to ease her worries, Vishakha spent a couple of sleepless nights imagining various scenarios about how her guileless son might get ensnared by some cunning girl!

In the end, she decided to grab the bull by the horns, before any real damage was done.

The very next night, just as he was finishing dinner, Sameer received a call from his mother. Quickly dispensing with the greetings, Vishakha got to the purpose of her call "Why have you been spending so much time with that Naina?" Sameer stammered at the unexpected question "Not so much time... we meet... occasionally. Mom, why are you asking?"

His mother ignored his query and instead continued "Just occasionally?? People have spotted you with her so many times already! Prabha Bhabhi told Anjali that she met Naina at Papa's home. And Shubhu met you both in some restaurant last week. You have no idea how embarrassed I was when Anjali told me that the family is already talking about your friendship with her! Instead of meeting your cousins and befriending their acquaintances, why meet other people? What do you have in common with her?"

He replied irritated "I will befriend whoever I want! And did Anjali Masi call you just to gossip about who I'm spending time with?! What does she care??"

Hearing his rising ire, his mother tried to justify "Beta, they all worry about you. Sameer, you don't know how calculating some people can be! What do you know about that girl's character or her family background?"

His anger only flared "Who the hell is she to question Naina's character?! I am a good enough judge of people's character and don't need her or anybody else to worry about me! Why can't people mind their own bloody business? Tell her, Naina comes from a family of respectable hard-working woman! Her mother had single-handedly brought her up and taught her to make do with very little while keeping her self-respect intact."

Stunned by his outburst, Vishakha mumbled "You have met her family??" Still seething, he continued unthinkingly "Yes, I have met them! And it took a great deal of effort to convince Auntie to accept my help with Naniji's surgery. And before you ask, I did not give them any money, just helped with some introductions to the doctor recommended by Dinesh."

She tried once more "Beta, just because they haven't taken advantage of you financially you yet, doesn't mean they won't in the future. And Sameer, I am not worried about some monetary loss! I just don't want anyone to use you..." "Nobody is using me! Please stop accusing her. Believe me, Naina is not like that!" he tried to stress on her.

After some more instructions to be careful and look after himself, Vishakha ended the call. She sat staring at the phone in dread, thinking - Oh god... this is much worse than I had imagined!

Sameer paced angrily for a bit and then dialled Naina's number.

Her sweet expectant "Hello??" was greeted with an outburst from his end "You aren't going to believe what that Anjali Masi did! Apparently, the people in my so-called family are concerned about the company I keep these days. Mom had just called to warn me against my choice of friends." 

When she muttered uncertainly "Which friends??" he huffed "She was referring to you!" Naina paled "Auntie spoke about me? Specifically?? What did she say?"

He continued grumbling "Do they have nothing better to do?! Imagine she called up mom just to report that I am spending too much time with you." When Naina entreated him sounding very nervous "What exactly did Auntie say?" he retorted "Not a lot. Like I would put up with any nonsense about you!" She asked "So, did you tell her about us?" Sounding flustered he uttered "Tell her about us and provide her with more ammunition?! Well, it hardly seemed like the time to confirm the gossip!" Then calming down a bit, he added "I will pick you up after you return from the tour tomorrow and drive you back home. We can talk in the car."

Needless to say, Naina spent the night in a very anxious state, while a very furious Sameer mentally ranted at Anjali and other family members!

The following evening, as he drove her back to Khed, he recounted the conversation with his mother to Naina in greater detail. Naina's apprehensions and indignation both grew as she learnt that Vishakha doubted her intentions and integrity.

She announced "Sameer, you should have told her about us! At least it would have stopped her from speculating further." He sighed "Maybe, I should have... Frankly, I was so shocked when she started talking about you, I just couldn't think straight! Last few days, I have been planning this whole speech in my head... when I will bring up the subject, what I will share, how I will tackle their objections. But yesterday, to start with, I went completely blank and then was just so mad at Anjali Masi!"

Wringing her hands, Naina asked "What if they don't agree?" Sameer frowned "I don't need anyone's approval to marry you. We are adults Naina." "But if they don't accept me..." her voice trailed off. Taking in her ashen features, he reached out to squeeze her hand "Don't worry... I will figure it out and set it right. They will accept you. I just need to address her doubts. Let her cool down a bit..."

Though Naina nodded along, she was not convinced that it was going to be easy. She was annoyed at herself, at her naiveté. Naina, you really are delusional! Just because Deepu called squealing in delight after Sameer shared the news of our engagement with her, does not mean that the rest of the family is going to welcome you with open arms!

The more he dwelt on it, Sameer wasn't sure if he had done the right thing by not disclosing his relationship with Naina, considering his mother had called specially to talk about her. Well, it's done. Might as well stick to the original plan and talk to Mom after Dadi leaves.

* * *

About a week later, when Rama answered the door, she was surprised to find Sameer at their doorstep again. Nonetheless, she ushered him in "Come in beta... how have you been? Naina has gone to the corner shop. She will be back soon." She noted that he seemed a little preoccupied as he returned her greetings and enquired about Malati's health.

On her return, Naina was surprised to see Sameer chatting with her mother while sipping on coffee. Rama immediately grumbled at her daughter "Why did you tell him about Patel kaka's accident? Now he wants to send the electricians to check on wiring." Before Naina could reply, Sameer spoke "Auntie I am telling you they will be just sitting at the factory for the next couple of weeks. The installation of the new circuitry must be delayed till we can complete the upcoming shipment. I have put them on a retainer to ensure their availability as soon as we are ready to start that work." Naina finally managed to get interject "Sameer, Maa is right. What is the need for any electrician? We are fine..."

He abruptly stood up and walked towards the wall where the wiring had come off and was dangling a little "This looks fine to you?! It must have been at least thirty-forty years since the wiring has been done. I saw the switch board in the bathroom last time. I was scared to touch it! Do you want to wait till one of you is electrocuted like that neighbour of yours before fixing this?" 

Naina muttered "He is fine... it was just a small incident." She added crossly "Maa is right... I shouldn't have mentioned it to you." Looking annoyed he countered "Well, you did! And now, I am insisting that you get this fixed before the rains starts and the risks increase!"

Sameer addressed the older woman, "Auntie, I will send them tomorrow morning. Munshiji has assured me that the contractor is trustworthy They will charge you for the material only. But if you have any concerns after talking to them call me." Few protests later, Rama gave in to his persuasive arguments.

Not wanting to create a scene, Naina silently glared at him, but he acted like he hadn't noticed and continued with some general chit-chat with Rama for another ten minutes or so. When he stood up to take his leave, a still annoyed Naina did not accompany him downstairs.

As soon as he left, Naina complained to her mother "Why did you let him talk you into it?!" Rama muttered "I tried to say no... but he wouldn't listen. He is very stubborn! And he is your friend... I didn't want to offend him." Then she asked sounding worried "Naina... has something happened? Did he say or do anything?? I will call him up and tell him to not send anyone!"

Naina was quick to assure her mother "Nothing like that Maa! Don't worry, he hasn't said or done anything. I told you he is a very good friend. It's okay... let them come and do the work. The board in the bathroom is really unstable and Nani is alone at home when you are at work." Then trying to lighten the mood she chuckled "I think, you should feed him lunch on very Sunday now to thank him for whatever money we save on the labor!"

Noting that Naina had neither seemed very comfortable receiving his help, nor had eagerly followed him downstairs, Rama concluded – I think I was unnecessarily worrying... Looks like they really are just good friends!

That night when he didn't call till ten, Naina dialled his number. She started as soon as he answered the call "Why didn't you call? I was sitting by the phone." but Sameer sat holding the phone in silence. Naina prompted "Sameer... why aren't you speaking now?? Are you cross at me?" He mocked "Oh... so, you do want to talk to me? It didn't seem like it when you didn't even walk me to the car!" As she started protesting "Sorry... I wasn't in a good mood... but why did you come to discuss that with Maa without asking me?"

He sighed "It wasn't planned. I was on the way back after meeting a supplier and though of stopping by. I have been worried since you told me about that accident." He added grumpily "I was expecting some resistance from Auntie but not from you!" Naina tried to explain "Sameer, Maa and I are not used asking for anyone's help. We have been managing things on our own for a long" he interrupted her "But now, you are not alone! Naina, you cannot expect me to sit back and not help. Especially, when I can fix the problem!" She attempted to present another argument "I don't want Maa questioning your motives." and mentally added - Nor do I want your mother doubting mine!

"Listen, we had decided to wait till I spoke to my family... But, if you prefer, I can come and talk to Auntie about us before that. Should I?" he asked solemnly. Naina deliberated on his question for a few moments, What if his family ends up in an uproar over his decision? Do I really want to put Maa through all that anxiety? She resolutely shook her head "No... let's wait as agreed. It's just a matter of a couple of weeks, right?"

The contractor arrived the very next day and after a quick inspection provided a quotation that Rama found very hard to turn down. As soon as she gave her approval, the house was filled with workers and raw materials. To the resident's great astonishment, and thanks to the pressure applied by Sameer, the contractors completed the rewiring and replacement of few electrical fixtures in the flat in exactly seven days as promised!

Just as Naina had suggested, Rama invited Sameer for lunch the following Sunday. He was given a tour of the two-bedroom flat, as Rama pointed out all the repairs with great enthusiasm and gratitude. She told him "Our neighbour Vikas bhai, remember you met him in the hospital, he checked the bills and said they charged very reasonably for the materials!"

During the meal, his plate was once again heaped with generous portions. At one point, Rama affectionately patted his head remarking how lucky his parents were to be blessed with such a wonderful son.

Malati joined them for lunch but then retired to her room soon after as she had a slight cold. When Naina asked her mother to sit with Sameer while she put the food away and cleaned the kitchen, the older woman happily obliged and kept their guest company.

Sameer was very happy to be the recipient of Rama's warmth until she spoke in a conspiratorial tone "Thank you beta! I was going to get the house fixed a little after the rainy season. Now that Amma is better... I am not going to listen to Naina's objections!" While Sameer wondered why Naina was against getting the flat repaired, Rama cast a glance at the kitchen. Satisfied that her daughter was still busy cleaning up inside, she continued "All these things matter when the guests come visiting. But Naina doesn't show any interest in these things! All this time, I listened to her because of Amma's health. But no more!" 

As he tried to make sense of her words, Rama looked at him expectantly "Beta, you are her friend. I know she listens to you. Mrs. Mehta is going to bring some photos next week. Please talk some sense into her!" Feeling lost, he mumbled "Photos? For home décor ideas??"

Rama tutted "No no... photos of boys for Naina." His eyes widened "Boys for Naina?!" And then as the implications of the conversation sunk in, he asked awkwardly "What's the rush Auntie?? If Naina is not keen..." The older lady shook her head "These things take time. We have to start looking. I want to see her settled with a good boy. I have told Mrs. Mehta we want an educated boy from a decent family! It's okay even if-"

A noise at the door interrupted the conversation. A boy of about ten stood in the doorway "Kaki, Mummy has asked for one cup sugar, she is making ladoos and ran out." As Rama headed inside to get some sugar, Sameer incredulously started at his reflection in the showcase glass thinking – What's wrong with her eyesight?? Can't she see a perfectly good boy sitting right in front of her?!

Naina couldn't figure out what had been the cause of his sudden mood change 'til she met him the next evening.

As soon as she entered the car, he asked accusingly "When were you going to tell me that your mother is looking for 'boys for you'?!" When he sullenly conveyed his conversation with Rama from the day before, Naina attempted to make light of it "Aare baba, she keeps talking of that to everyone! And even if Mrs. Mehta brings some photos or some boys over... It's not like I am going to say yes to any of them."

The rest of the evening passed by in Sameer repeatedly complaining "What does she mean by a good boy?? Am I a bad boy? I mean, why would she even consider looking for someone else when I am here?! Here I am, organizing Naniji's surgery... getting the electricals fixed... But after all the problems are sorted, she wants to find another boy?!"

Naina tried to assure him that he had nothing to worry about and her mother would be over the moon when she finds out that Sameer wants to marry her! Internally she was mad at herself – Naina, what was the need to leave him alone with Maa?? Look what happened, just because you were trying to impress him with your housekeeping skills!

* * *

The secretly engaged couple spent the next couple of weeks in eager anticipation of Dadi's return to India. Though relieved, Sameer was a little puzzled when his mother did not revisit the topic of his friendship with Naina. This seems very unlike her! Usually, she is like a dog with a bone... Has she finally realized that her adult children don't need any meddling in the guise of affection?!

And then his scepticism was proven right when the doorbell rang in the middle of the night. Sameer rushed to the door, very disoriented and a little alarmed. Ramdhari was already at the gate hauling out a very large bag from the car standing there and one of his cousins happily exclaimed "So, how is the surprise?!" Staring in disbelief at the person standing next to him Sameer uttered "Mom?? What are you doing here?" Vishakha smiled "Do I need a reason to visit my son?" He stammered "But... why?? I mean... why didn't you tell me you were coming? And so suddenly..."

Vishakha headed inside as she answered "Mummyji was heading back to India, so I decided to accompany her. And as Manish said, I decided to surprise you! Anyways, I did not get to relax and enjoy the last trip to India. All my cousins have been calling me too. And of course, it will be such a good opportunity for us to stay together for some time. It's been years!"

Early next morning, after Sameer had conveyed the news of the unexpected guest's arrival, in hushed tones over the phone, Naina was stupefied – Sweet surprise??? This feels more like a planned ambush! And then she tried to summon her inner warrior – Naina, it's time that you prove yourself worthy of the name Nani has called you by all these years – Jhansi ki Rani!

* * *

(Hi Everyone,

Another very long chapter! And hope you enjoyed it! Looking forward to your feedback as always 😊

Take care and stay safe.

Lots of love, May)