Chapter 11

Ludhiana, Punjab

It was nearly midnight when I returned home after sorting out a mess of my own. Yash hadn’t come back, he had some urgent work and would be home early in the morning. Dad had flown off to Paris for a business meeting.

As I walked in, faint voices from the living room caught my attention. Curious, I followed the sound.

To my surprise, the entire family was sitting there, together, laughing, chatting.

“Kya baat hai family, aaj sab is waqt ikatthe? Ki hoya?”

(What’s going on, family? All of you gathered at this hour? What happened?)

Mom walked over, her face lit up with excitement. It warmed my heart to see everyone smiling like this.

“What happened, Mom? Tell me too,” I asked with a grin.

She said with joy. “It’s good news guess what?”

“Bhua kahi ja rahi hai kya?”

(Is Bhua going somewhere?)

She lightly smacked my arm. “Stop joking! Let me just tell you.”

I chuckled. “Yes yes, Mata Rani, go on.”

“You remember the girl Veerji talked about? He found her. We’re going to her house tomorrow… with Yash’s marriage proposal.”

My smile vanished. My chest tightened, and for a moment, I just stared at her.

“What?” I asked, my voice low. “Why?”

Simar mom and Amrinder papa stood up.

Mom glanced at them, then back at me. “What’s with that reaction, Nav? Shouldn’t you be happy for your brother?”

I tossed my car keys onto the table. The metallic clatter echoed through the room.

“No. I’m not.” I stepped forward, voice rising. “What do you mean you’re taking a marriage proposal? Did anyone even ask him?”

“Does he even know?”

I turned to Amrinder uncle and Simar mom.

“Bade Papa, Badi Ma… did you even ask Yash? What if he doesn’t want this? You’re not even consulting him!”

“I don’t need his consultation,” Amrinder Papa snapped. “This alliance was decided long ago. I promised her father. I can’t back out. He’s my son he’ll agree.”

I stared at him, stunned. “You promised? But did he promise? Has anyone asked if he wants to marry a girl he barely knows? He’s not a puppet! He has feelings. He doesn’t want this….”

“How do you know that?” Dadi interjected softly.

“I just do. I know him. Better than anyone.” I stepped forward, desperate. “At least talk to him before finalising anything.”

“We’re his parents,” Amrinder papa shot back. “Don’t act like you know more than us. We raised him. You think we don’t understand him? This marriage will happen. I gave my word, and I don’t go back on it.”

Simar mom and my mother were trying to calm us down, stepping between us as tempers flared.

I couldn’t hold it in anymore. “Yes! You don’t know him. You sent him abroad even when he didn’t want to go. Then when he settled there, you told him to come back. Every time he wants something for himself, you push your own decisions onto him. You don’t even ask what he wants you just expect him to obey blindly!”

SLAP.

My mom grabbed my arm and struck my cheek hard.

“Have you lost your mind? Is this how you speak to your elders? Do you know what we’ve done for you kids? The sacrifices we made just to give you everything people dream of, and you don’t even appreciate it!”

Another slap followed.

“How dare you speak to Veerji like that!”

Simar mom rushed to pull her back. “Jasmeet, he’s just a child. He’s only speaking out because he’s worried for his brother.”

Dadi came up to me and gently touched my reddened cheek. “Jasmeet, is this how you handle children? Can’t you talk to him calmly?”

My throat burned with guilt. I stepped back, ashamed.

“I’m sorry, Bade Papa… I shouldn’t have said those things. I got carried away. Please forgive me.”

I looked around the room every face stunned, some angry, some concerned.

“I’m sorry, everyone,” I whispered.

I turned to him, head low, not saying a word, and walked away. The moment I entered my room, I locked the door behind me.

A loud slap rang in my ears again, Mom had slapped me. Twice.

Tears stung, but I brushed them away and dialed Yash’s number.

Ring 1… Ring 2… Ring 3…
Call disconnected.

I redialed, frustrated.

“The subscriber you have dialed is currently not available. Please try again later.”

My fingers trembled. I kept trying for hours, but his phone remained switched off.

“Saala… phone kabhi time pe nahi uthata. Jab zarurat hoti hai tab toh aur hi gayab ho jaata hai,” I muttered under my breath.

His frustration was no less. After several failed attempts, Nav threw his phone across the bed.

“Damn phone,” he hissed, jaw clenched.

A knock echoed on my door.

I turned toward it, hesitant.

Another knock.

I opened it.

There stood Mom… and with her, badi ma and bade papa

“Mom?” my voice cracked.

They all stepped inside.

“What happened?” I asked, confused.

Mom rushed to me, cupped my face, tears already falling.

“I’m sorry, bacha. I hit you… for the first time. It must have hurt, right?” she whispered.

Mom walked closer. “Beta, we’re not against Yash. We just want him to be happy.”

Bade papa nodded. “I know you spoke rudely to us today… and maybe that’s never happened before. So, I’m choosing to forgive it. But I still want to understand. What are you hiding?”

Nav walked over, gently making me sit on the bed, while both moms stood silently.

“You may know him better,” he continued. “You’re his brother, his best friend. But we’re not his enemies. We care about him too. The way you reacted… it felt like you were hiding something. So, what is it?”

I stayed quiet, avoiding his gaze.

“That silence says a lot,” he murmured. “Let’s do this. We’re going to meet that girl tomorrow. You come with us. If you like her for your brother, we’ll go ahead. If you don’t, we’ll back off.”

I looked up sharply. “Pakka?”

(For sure?)

“Pakka,” bade papa replied gently.

I knelt before him, eyes saddened

“ bade Papa, I love you. I respect you so much. I didn’t mean to disrespect you… I just want what’s best for Yash. He hides his pain,acts like he’s strong, but he isn’t. He’s lonely, Papa. And I don’t want anyone to come into his life and push him further into that darkness. That’s all. I’m so sorry.”

I bent forward and touched his feet, resting my forehead just below his knee.

“I’m sorry, bade Papa… really.”

He immediately lifted me up and hugged me tightly.

“Shhh… mere bache. It’s okay. I forgive you,” he whispered.

“And, We’ll make sure he gets the happiness he deserves. If even for a second you feel that girl isn’t right, we’ll walk away. Promise.”

I didn’t speak, but a lump sat heavy in my throat.

Suddenly, Mom stepped forward with a soft smile. “Can someone forgive me too?”

I went to her and hugged her tightly. “Sorry, Mom… for earlier.”

I turned to badi maa too and wrapped my arms around her. “Sorry to you as well. I was stupid. I didn’t mean it.”

Both of them smiled through misty eyes, gently cupping my cheeks.

Amrinder Dad asked, “So… it’s final? You’ll come with us tomorrow?”

I nodded.

“Good. Sleep early then,” he said softly.

They wished me good night and left.

But as I sat on the edge of my bed, staring into the silence… a strange unease stayed behind with me.

✧

The morning air was cold and quiet. It was 4 AM when I stepped out for a run. The road was empty, and my thoughts were heavy.

After a quick jog and an intense session at the gym, I returned home around seven. Everyone was already getting ready.

“Do you want to go or not?” badi maa asked, raising her brow.

“Of course I want to,” I said quickly.

She smiles, and mom said “Then get ready, or should I consult a pandit for the most auspicious time?”

I chuckled. “No need for that, Mom. I’m going.”

Even though I tried to smile, I was still buried in thoughts. Uneasy. I got dressed silently and came downstairs.

And then…

“Ullu ka pattha ab aa raha hai…”

(That idiot is showing up now…)

I saw Yash casually walking toward us, and my anger rised instantly.

So many calls. Not a single one picked up.

I stormed up to him before he could even blink.

“Where the hell were you?! I called you so many times! Are you an idiot?” I snapped.

Before he could respond, everyone else joined us, looking all decked up.

He looked around, confused.

“All dressed up? Where are you all going?” Yash asked, ignoring my question.

“Tere liye bhabhi dhoondne,” Subh said with a wicked grin.

(Going to find a bride for you.)

“Sudhar ja tu. Vehla nahi aa main, jo tere naal bakwass krda rahvan. Ja kaam kar apna.” he snapped.

(Behave. I’m not jobless to do rubbish with you. Go do your work.)

God, I was fuming. The idiot was acting as if nothing had happened. Meanwhile, I was internally burning. I knew my poker face was betraying nothing, but inside I was screaming.

Still, I stayed silent.

✧

Later That Morning

We all settled into the cars. I sat quietly, eyes fixed outside the window. The long drive to Jodhpur was filled with nervous anticipation I tried to suppress.

We finally reached Rathore Haveli, the ancestral home of bade papa’s old friend.

As we stepped inside, we were warmly welcomed. I touched umcle’s feet and he hugged me tight. Aunty gently patted my shoulder and offered snacks and tea. I was just taking in the traditional decor when

A faint fragrance hit me. Sweet, like wildflowers mixed with sunshine.

And then I saw her.

Our eyes met.

Just for a second or two.

But something shifted.

I don’t know when or why… but a small smile quietly crept across my lips.

She was standing there in a white floral frock, golden earrings dangling gently as she moved. Her hair was open, dancing a little with the breeze from the cooler.

She looked…

She looked like an angel who accidentally took a wrong turn from heaven and landed in Rathore Haveli.

She greeted everyone and was about to touch Mom’s feet when she gently stopped her.

“Hamare yahaan betiyan pair nahi chhooti, paap lagta hai humein. Aur agar itni pyaari bachi ne chhoo liya toh aur bhi zyada lagega,” Mom said warmly, pulling her into a hug.

(In our tradition, girls don’t touch elders’ feet—it’s considered a sin. And if such a sweet girl like you touches them, we’ll be doubly cursed!)

Badi Ma hugged her too.

“She is our daughter, Vani,” Aunty said with pride.

Vani,

I mouthed her name as I looked at her. She glanced at me… and then looked away. Ouch. I smirked.

What a pretty name.

When we were about to leave, Aunty spoke again.
“Actually, Vani also wants to go to Jahnvi’s house. Can she go with you all?”

“Yes, yes! Why not? There’s space in Nav’s car,” Mom answered, then looked straight at me.
“Nav, take her with you.”

“Yes, Mom.”

I looked at Vani. She was clearly not thrilled about this.

We all moved to our respective cars. Vani was about to sit in the backseat when Dadi said,

“Vani beta, I don’t feel like sitting in the front. I’ll go in the back.”

“Are you okay, Aunty?” Vani asked.

“Don’t call me Aunty, call me Dadi. And yes, I’m perfectly fine.”

“Okay, Dadi… but I’ll also sit in the back,” Vani insisted.

“Oh hello? Did you all hire me as your driver? Someone please sit in the front seat!” I said.

I already knew what was coming.

“Vani beta, you sit in the front,” Dadi added helpfully.

Exactly what I wanted.

She hesitated for a second, then sat in the front.

“You’re the first one I’ve let sit on my front seat apart from my family,” I said while driving.

“I highly doubt any girl would want to sit here,” she snapped.

“But you’re sitting here… aren’t you a girl?”

“What—you—ugh! Never mind!”

She was clearly frustrated. I loved it.

As I drove, we hit a pothole.

“Aaram se!!” Vani yelled.

“Ab main kya karu? Tumhare Jodhpur mein gaddhe bohot hain! Meri kya galti hai isme? Bekaar sadkein,” I said, grinning.

(What can I do? Your Jodhpur has too many potholes. Blame the roads, not me.)

I knew teasing her about Rajasthan would get to her.

“Excuse me! Tumhe hi drive karna nahi aata.”

(Excuse me, you’re the one who can’t drive!)

“Excuse me, I drive a Range Rover. Have you even seen one?”

“Excuse meee, I’ve driven a Range Rover and several supercars. Don’t try to impress me, and if you drive an Alto or a Range Rover, at least learn how to drive first.”

“Oh really? Wasn’t tha…”

“Stop, you two!” Dadi interrupted. “By the way you’re arguing, I think Vani might end up as our second daughter-in-law. You two look so cute together.”

I smirked.

“Dadi?” Vani asked, surprised.

“I’m just joking. I hope you don’t mind?” Dadi chuckled.

“Ji…” she replied with a shy smile.

Yeh ladki smile karti hai toh kitni sundar lagti hai, yaar…

(She looks so beautiful when she smiles…)

What the hell are you thinking, Nav?

✧

At Inaiyat’s House

I was just staring at the house, unsure.

I grabbed Vani’s arm.
“Are you sure this is the house?”

“Of course! Now leave my arm.”

I let go.

Maybe… this is it.

“Sat Shri Akal, Simar Didi,” her Chachi said, hugging Ma.

“Sat Shri Akal, Aunty ji,” the girl greeted everyone, then hugged Badi Ma, who patted her head fondly.

“Yash ke papa keh rahe the ki bachi bohot pyaari hai. Mujhe toh lagta hai jaise koi pari hi zameen par aa gayi ho. Kya bolti ho, Jasmeet?” Ma said.

“Bilkul didi, bohot pyaari bachi hai,” Mom agreed warmly.

Then she greeted Dadi. She looked beautiful, and maybe her nature was too.

“Oh my God, Bhabhi ji, you’re sooo beautiful!” Mehak gushed like a true drama queen.

“Sat Shri Akal ji,” I finally greeted her, touched her Chachi’s feet, and sat on the couch.

“Ek kaam karna, tum unke pair mat chhoona,” I whispered to Vani.

“Kyu?” she asked.

“Jitna zeher hai tum mein, kahin voh mar hi na jaayein,” I snickered.

(You’re so toxic, she might die.)

“Kangaal khopdi,” she shot back, annoyed.

(Empty-brained idiot.)

Still snickering, I watched her walk away.

The girl came to Vani and hugged her.

“How are you, Inu?”

Inu? I thought. Am I hearing this right?

I walked up and introduced myself.

“Well, I’m Navver Singh Brar,” I said.

She smiled. “I’m Inaiyat Chauhan.”

My expression changed instantly.

She’s the girl. The one Yash is obsessed with, Inaiyat Chauhan. Her Chachi. This house. Why didn’t it click earlier? I fought with my family for nothing. Yash will be so happy. I’m stress free now.

Vani and Bhabhi went to the kitchen while we all settled down.

I looked at Subh, who dropped onto the other sofa.

“oh manushya atleast bnda greet kr sakda, akal nam di cheez bakki aa k nai?” i taunt him

(Oh human atleast you should have greet, you have brain left or not)

“ tu ta gal na hi kr, thpd kha ke muh chk ke aa gya, meri marji mai blava na blava ohna nu jive meri kami bhali mehsus honi aa?” subh said

(Don’t you talk, first you got slapped and than you came here without hesitation, I’ll greet them or not  its my choice, they miss my presence if don’t greet?)

“ Tu thpda na khali kite metho , bhala na bolya kr, juban jada hi chldi aa , tu chup hi set c, te izzat uzzat hundi aa vada tetho bai keha kr”

(Don’t let me be the one slapping you. Don’t speak too much. Your tongue runs too fast. You were better when you were quiet. Show some respect—I’m older, call me ‘brother’)

“Kyoon? Sach sunya ni janda? Phir pange kyon lena aa? Bai tenu? Hatt!”

(Why? Can’t take the truth? Why mess with me then? ‘Bai’ to you? Get lost!)

Our moms gave us a deadly glare.

We instantly shut up and started laughing silently.

I went behind Inu to help her in the kitchen. Bro, she was looking gorgeous, but of course, I wasn’t going to say it out loud. Hehe.

I sat casually on the kitchen island, watching her move around.

“One day, I swear I’m going to kill your chachi,” I muttered in frustration.

“She’s a sweetheart,” Inu said, laughing.

I raised my eyebrows at her. “You know I can see right through you. I know how she treats you, so don’t try to hide it from me.”

“It’s not like that,” she said softly. “She’s good at heart. Trust me.”

I just shook my head. There was no use arguing, she would never accept the truth. So I let it go.

She made tea while I arranged the snacks onto plates. She picked up the tray of teacups, and I carried the snacks. Together, we stepped out to serve everyone.

“Inaiyat, come and sit with me,” Simar aunty called out happily. Jasmeet aunty was sitting beside her.

She walked toward them and sat beside Simar aunty. Only one seat was left,next to Navver. So, unwillingly, I had to sit beside him.

“Someone was saying no girl would ever sit beside me,” Navver said with a smug smirk.

I rolled my eyes. “Idiot.”

Just then, Simar aunty turned to Inu and asked, “Inaiyat, tell me honestly, do you want to marry or not?”

Everyone went quiet.

“Ji,” she replied softly, lowering her gaze.

“That’s good.” Jasmeet aunty smiled and hugged her.

“Mummy ji, tusi dasso tuhanu kudi kivein lagi?” Simar aunty asked Dadi in Punjabi.
(Mom, you tell us,how did you like the girl?)

I understood a little Punjabi, so I could follow.

“She’s cute. I have no problem,” Dadi said with a warm smile.

“Inaiyat, we will treat you like our own daughter. But my child, never create differences between me and Jasmeet or Mehak, between Subh and Nav,” Simar aunty said.

“I’ll never do that, aunty,” Inu replied sincerely.

“Don’t call me aunty now,” she smiled. “You’ll soon be my daughter. Call me Mom,” she said and kissed her forehead.

They were sweet. It didn’t feel fake. Maybe their emotions were actually real.

Dadi inhaled deeply and joined in, “We’re a joint family. I never let anyone separate us, and I don’t intend to. I know you’re smart and sensible. If you call Simar mom, then you should call Jasmeet mom too.”

She paused and added, “We need a daughter-in-law who builds a home, not breaks one. I hope you understand.”

“Ji, I’ll never do anything that would break your bond,” Inu replied.

Dadi nodded, content.

Simarjeet aunty and Jasmeet aunty stood up, picked sweets from a plate, and fed them to Inu happily.

“tumne khana hai? Tumhe bhout jarurat hai methe ki, syd tumhari kadvi juban pai asr ho jaye. Kereli” nav

( Do you want to eat sweets? You really need that , maybe they affect on your bitter tounge, bitter guard)

“mai na maar dungi tumhe” i said and changed my place

(I’ll seriously kill you)

Soon, they started talking to Inu about the family,how they run their business, the love among the members, and even about Yash.

Listening to them, Yash actually seemed like a decent guy. Maybe he’d keep Inu happy. Or maybe not?

We left after lunch, and they said Amrinder uncle would give the next update about the wedding.

Before leaving, I hugged her tightly.

“Take care of yourself. Aur is chudail ne agar kuch kiya na, toh mujhe batana. Jungle ke kutte chhod doongi iske peechhe,” I whispered in her ear.

(Take care of yourself. And if that witch does anything, just tell me—I’ll let wild dogs loose on her.)

She laughed.

We got back into the cars. They dropped me first. They said they’d visit again later,they were already running late.

Of course, riding with Navver was… a whole circus. That langur.

______________________________________

Hey guys , tell me if you like the chapter, you can do votes if you want, it’ll give me motivation.

Next chapter will be out soon

English is not my first language kindly excuse any errors

Your Writer
Fanaa

Heading off!!!