Page 6 of Strictly Solo

“I don’t care if they are here. It’s fine.”

“Are you sure? I mean, I understand that Kaushalya Aunty is as dramatic as a daily soap opera. Of course, having her around is going to stir up some crazy drama.”

Despite herself, Naina couldn’t help but laugh at her cousin’s playful quip. She didn’t care what Ruhaan’s mother thought about her. But perhaps having Ruhaan back in her orbit could be a catastrophe. It was after seven long years finally that something had stirred again in her body like never before. And worse if anyone understood her complicated emotions surrounding Ruhaan’s reappearance, it was Suman.

But this time, the shy, easily-flustered Naina of seven years ago was gone, replaced by a strong, empowered woman who wouldn’t be cowed by his charms or mind games. She was Naina Bhalla, independent, single mother and hugely successful in her own right. This was her family’s celebration, and she wouldn’t allow anyone, not even the Singhs, to diminish her joy in being here.

“Naina,” Subodh Kundra, Suman’s father, and his wife Malti entered the room, interrupting Naina and Suman’s conversation.

Naina dropped everything else and rushed to them. She took their blessings first and then hugged Subodh tight.

“How are you, uncle?”

“Just like always. Fit and fine. But what’s wrong with you? Why are you looking so thin?”

“Yes, Naina,” Malti intervened. “You have lost weight.”

“Neil keeps her on toes, Maa,” Suman mentioned as Neil finished his chocolate and ran towards the elderly couple. Just like Naina had taught him, Neil bent down straight to take their blessings first before hugging them.

“You are raising him good, Naina. All these values should be taught from the childhood itself.” Malti continued before taking Neil into her arms.

“Nani, I’m hungry.” Neil pouted.

Malti kissed his forehead and turned to Naina.

“You both talk,” she added smiling to her husband Subodh. “I’ll feed Neil and also check if the other guests have settled down. The moment Rohit told us that you and Neil are here, we first came to meet you both.”

Naina smiled as Malti took Neil and Suman along. Her uncle and aunt loved Neil no less than they loved Suman’s daughter, Pinky. Neil was lucky to have them as his grandparents.

“I am so happy you could make it here,” Subodh continued.

“How would I miss your 25th anniversary, Uncle?”

“I knew you wouldn’t. But the Singhs are here. I hope you don’t mind?” he asked. “We couldn’t deny Rohit’s request of inviting them. For the past two years, the Singhs are very much again like family friends because of their joint business with Rohit.”

Naina knew they were bound to keep positive ties with the Singhs for their son-in-law Rohit, despite what happened between her and the Singhs seven years ago.

Subodh slid his arm around Naina’s shoulder and took her away.

“Forget all that, Naina. Now tell me, did you think upon my request?”

Naina swallowed nervously. This was one reason why she preferred to travel less to Delhi. Her uncle and aunt kept asking her to settle down.

“Uncle, I am so much occupied these days. And you know Neil. He just...”

“Neil,” Subodh interrupted. “I am asking you to do this for Neil, Naina. Do you know the last time he was here, I asked him what he wants for himself when he comes here next time, and he said he wants a dad.”

Naina’s eyes teared.

“No, Naina. There is nothing to cry about. You have every right to marry and have a loving husband by your side.”

“But what’s the guarantee that my loving husband will be a caring father to Neil?” she asked.

“You have to leave some things for time to decide. Who knows, that man might love Neil as his own son?”

“How can I take that chance, Uncle? What if he doesn’t?”

“Naina...”