It was another bright morning in May. Akash came out of his room and sat down, resting his back to the sofa. Murali was busy with the radio. He pulled its antenna and tried for the signal, finally succeeded as it started to play melodies. Kamala was busy chopping the vegetables, and she noticed the presence of Akash. 

She sighed, looking at his gloomy face.

"Kids, these have become extravagant and calculative. Everything is tied to money. They're demanding what's called 'packages.' Marriage became a play. Need a partner who can earn lakhs per month, has to be the only heir, should be from a top-tier college, has to be attractive like a film star, and if possible should not have parents nor should take their responsibilities. It's better to be single rather than to marry someone like that," ranted Kamala.

Akash smiled inwardly at his mother's attempt to cheer him. His thoughts drifted to Phalguni. He did not understand why she was someone special to him in a single meeting, even though he was rejected. She's a girl who values family, doesn't leave her passions, and respects everyone.

"Ma, how can a name be everything?" asked Akash, hoping to find an answer. 

Kamala shook her head at him as she thought her son had finally gone mad. Murali laughed and sat on the sofa.

"Akash, a name can mean a million things, but it's always up to you what that everything means," answered Murali as he gently leaned in and ruffled Akash's hair.

"Can you help me in the kitchen? I don't want to miss the new film that's airing on TV," shouted Kamala. 

Murali went to help his wife. Akash was lost in deep thoughts as he heard the blabbers of his parents.

●●●

Phalguni was busy sketching a design for a client on the terrace. Her mind buzzed with different thoughts. After a while, she was satisfied with the final outcome. She put her book aside and stood to enjoy the summer breeze under the mango tree. She stared at the evening sky, slowly changing from blue to a mix of red and orange. The sky reminded her of someone; that's when she realised her feelings. 

Akash might have the same name as her brother, but both are different people with different personalities. She was afraid that whenever she was with Akash, she would be constantly reminded of her brother. But this moment proved that wrong. She's ready to accept Akash and make memories with him. After all, a name could be compromised for the person she likes.

"Nanna, I like Akash. I'm ready to marry him, but I would like to tell him this in person," confessed Phalguni to her father.

"As you wish, dear," replied Aravind as his face beamed with happiness.

Bhadravati hugged her daughter with happy tears, feeling bittersweet that her younger child grew up.

Shravani hugged her sister and kissed her cheek as she congratulated her. Phalguni's house was filled with joy as the festive mood of the wedding celebrations set in.

Murali and Kamala got dressed and were ready to meet Phalguni's family to set a date for their wedding. They did not tell Akash about it as Phalguni wished.

"Akash, Phalguni's family invited us for dinner. You go there first; your father and I have some work to do." said Kamala.

Akash got curious.

Why would they invite us for dinner? Probably to reject in a more polite way.

These pessimistic thoughts occupied Akash's brain. He got dressed in a formal light blue shirt and drove to Phalguni's house.

Shravani was teaching Kuchipudi to Lucky in the verandah. She heard the sound of Akash's bike.

"Hi Akash!" greeted Shravani.

"It's good to see you again, Akash," said Daksh.

Akash returned their greetings. 

"Sorry, I've got some errands to take care of. You guys continue," said Daksh as he started his bike.

Akash stared at the street as the bike disappeared from his sight.

"You look nervous," spoke Shravani.

"A little," replied Akash as he waved at Lucky with a smile dancing on his lips.

"Don't be. Lucky likes you!" said Sharvani.

He looked at Lucky waving back at him.

"I think so."

"Oops, I meant Phalguni. Lucky was her nickname when she was a child. Later, it got transferred to Bhuvi. Don't tell Phalguni that I've told you about her nickname," she said, looking at her daughter affectionately.

Their conversation was stopped as Phalguni walked towards them dressed in blue Bandhani Anarkali. Her eyes are lined with kajal. She had a small smile on her lips, brightening her face.

The architect, he  wanted to build his future together.

"Good luck!" wished Shravani to Akash as she approached them. Akash's breath hitched as he admired Phalguni.

"Mr. Akash, I want to talk to you," said Phalguni. 

Akash nodded his head and followed Phalguni to the terrace, his mind racing with thoughts and heart with feelings. He leaned to the parapet wall on the terrace as Phalguni sat on the bench under the mango tree. Lucky came up with a tray of beverages.

"Take it fast, Pinni. I've got to go and play," said Lucky, giving her the tray. Phalguni placed the tray on the bench and handed the coffee to Akash as she took her boost. Akash silently sipped his coffee, thinking of ways to start the conversation.

"I don't like coffee or tea," said Phalguni out of nowhere.

"I like boost, and no, it is not the secret of my energy," continued Phalguni.

Akash chuckled at it. Phalguni smiled seeing him loosen a bit.

"Why do you like me, Akash?" blurted Phalguni.

Akash choked on his drink. He did not expect this question.

"Careful!"

"I... I like that you value family-the reason I'm here. You did not give up on music despite how busy you are; you expressed your likes and dislikes without any fear. Not rushing while making a decision. Respecting me for who I am and my profession. And others I might like in the future," he replied, mumbling the last part.

Phalguni grinned at him.

"Mr. Akash I like that family is important for us both. Despite your busy schedule, you decided to show up prioritising me. You accepted my decision and did not force me. In fact, you spoke on behalf of me, asking for some time. Regardless of the outcome, you still agreed to talk, but the fact that your name is "

"I know. I haven't told you this before, Akash is my name on the documents, but I was actually named Akash Indra. You can call me Indra if you're comfortable." said Akash, cutting Phalguni midway. 

Phalguni wanted to tease him for stopping her confession in the middle.

"Actually"

"Don't tell me your uncle's name is Indra," deadpanned Akash.

"Well, my aunt's name is Indra. It's a long story," lied Phalguni.

Akash was petrified at her words.

Phalguni burst laughing, seeing his reaction.

"I was just kidding, Mr. Akash. I like the way you are. In spite of my silliness, you still offered a solution," confessed Phaluguni.

Akash's corners of the eyes softened as he broke into a huge smile. His heart felt light, as if a burden were lifted up. Phalguni noticed his genuine happiness and dimples for the first time.

"Well, it's a yes for me, Doctor Akash," said Phalguni, giving him her hand for a handshake.

Akash agreed and shook her hand. He stared at the beautiful evening sky and then at her.

"Is blue your favourite colour?" he asked her.

"I'm starting to like it as I heard it's someone's favourite," she replied, staring back at the sky.

"Thank you, Lucky!" he shouted.

"Huh?"

"I'm just saying that I'm lucky," covered Akash.

"Akash, give me your hand," requested Phalguni.

Without hesitating, Akash put his hand forward. Phalguni took the kajal from her eyes and placed a small dot on his hand.

"What is this for?" asked Akash curiously.

"To ward off evil eye because you're handsome," replied Phalguni, murmuring the last part. Akash's ears did not miss the last part. He felt heat rising at the back of his neck and cheeks.

They both got down and were welcomed to the sight of Lucky enjoying mango jelly, sitting on the parapet wall.

"Do you want some Babai?" offered Lucky.

Akash's heart fluttered as Lucky lovingly called him Babai. He took the mango jelly and tore it in half. He gave the other piece to Phalguni. Phalguni raised her eyebrows, giving him a questioning look.

"Sharing is caring Ms. Architect," he replied, grinning at her.

Phalguni was sure she made the right decision as she smiled back at him.

Glossary

Nanna- father

Kuchipudi- classical dance form of India

Babai- uncle (paternal uncle or husband of your maternal aunt)