Against The World

Please, let it once be me, who do I speak to, to change the prophecy? - The Prophecy.

“The quarterly reports show that the products taken from Mishras are costing more.” The financial manager spoke in front of a room full of board members as Ajabdeh sat at the head of the table in a pencil skirt, pointed heels and a shirt, looking pensive. Ramrakh shared a glance with Udai, who seemed happy that Ajabdeh had been proved wrong. “But… compared to our rivals, whose product qualities have fallen, we made more sales because of the quality of Mishra's material.” The man made Ajabdeh sigh in relief as her eyes met Pratap’s briefly in the dark boardroom, with the pie chart and bar diagrams appearing on the projector. He smiled reassuringly at her. “Your gamble paid off well, Ma’am,” Pratap observed, his father being visibly upset by the events as he turned to see Ramrakh congratulate Ajabdeh proudly. The board meeting continued on other relevant issues. When it was about to end, Ajabdeh stood up to inform the board about the school that the welfare foundation of the company at Sarangpura was going to establish. She also stated that she planned an inauguration and that they would all be invited. She planned on making her mother and Ranima inaugurate the school near the village.
Pratap was proud that Ajabdeh had proved her worth. She was worried about the inauguration of the school, and Heer was helping her with the arrangements. He eyed his father, tapping his shoes on the marble floor while waiting for the elevator, when he approached him.
“Dad, is everything fine?” He enquired. Udai Singh glanced over at his son. 
“Why wouldn’t it be?” He glanced scrutinisingly as Pratap inhaled. “You don’t seem very happy with Ajabdeh proving you wrong.” Pratap stared at his father’s dull face, frowning at him.
“What do you mean, prove me wrong?” He retorted. “We both want what’s best for the company, and if her plan works, good for her.” Pratap cleared his throat at the harshness in his tone.
“I mean… she did a good job, right?” Pratap enquired. “You don’t doubt her capabilities anymore?”
“My hair has not greyed in a day, Pratap.” Udai Singh eyed him keenly. “If she is doing her job, the way she is supposed to do it, what is the fuss? Why do I need to praise her?” He asked with a shrug. The elevator dinged as the door opened, and Udai Singh stepped in.
“It’s time you think about what’s good for you rather than about her.” Pratap watched the elevator door close on his face as his father spoke. 
Pratap turned on his heel and walked to Ajabdeh’s chamber. She was gathering her things, ready to leave, when he knocked and peeped in. Ajabdeh exhaled with a smile as he walked in.
“I am so glad that it's done.” She heaved a sigh of relief. “I didn’t sleep all night.”
“So…” Pratap cleared his throat. “Did you tell them about the plan to go to Sarangpur a few days before?” He enquired as she nodded.
“I told Maasa that we will all be going beforehand to arrange the event. The parents can come by later.”
“What about Rukaiya and Jalal?” He enquired. Ajabdeh shrugged.
“She is in Agra with him this week, so they will reach there directly, and they have not informed us about their visit home, in case anyone gets suspicious.” Her words made Pratap smile as he walked up to her desk and leaned in, making her look a little alarmed with wide eyes.
“Let’s do it then, soon-to-be-Mrs. Pratap Singh.” He smiled. Ajabdeh nodded.
“Let’s do it, soon-to-be Mr Ajabdeh Punwar.” She agreed.
“Are you going to hyphenate the surnames?” He asked, folding his arms to his chest as she laughed slightly.
“You know the answer is no.” She shrugged. “For a lot of reasons.” He did not specifically ask her what those were, but assumed it had something to do with the fact that they were going to hide the registry.
“I am glad we decided to do it at Sarangpura.” He changed the topic. Ajabdeh nodded. “It would have been really awkward to take the help of the Mishras had we been facing losses because of them.” She seemed amused and in a good mood as Pratap shook his head and waited for her to pick up her bag so that they could leave in their separate cars.
“Do you think they are doing the right thing?” Rukaiya was sitting in the living room of the apartment in Agra, going through the leaflet of colours for the walls, when she asked the question. Jalal sipped on the coffee he had just brewed, looked up from the picture he was editing of her. “Who?” He asked with slightly raised brows. Rukaiya shot him a glance. The Mehendi on her hand from the engagement had faded slightly as her fingers lingered on the wall colours she had shortlisted. She had been in Agra for a couple of days, and they had not really spoken of the things they wanted to. On the first day, they made kebabs and Biryani, and on the second, she was busy coordinating with his mother over a call and talking about the renovations of the place. Rukaiya wanted to talk about the business expansions she had envisioned, taking over a market at Udaipur, while Jalal wanted to talk about whether they should go ahead with the wedding. Neither of them could randomly bring it up. Jalal wondered if Rukaiya was at all happy shifting base to Agra right after she started running the business, while she wondered what he would think if she said she wanted to set up an expansion in Udaipur that would imply her settling there for a few years. Rukaiya was also worried for Ajabdeh. Ever since she received her call, inviting her to Sarangpura, the only time she talked of their secret nuptials was when Jalal asked her to come to Agra and travel with him. She was unsure whether he said it to avoid suspicion or simply because he did not want to reach Ajabdeh’s wedding alone. Rukaiya had unmindfully eyed the ring on her finger many times, wondering if she should remove it as she made her way to Agra. Yet, she did not. When Jalal opened the door of the flat to let her in, the first thing she noticed was the ring on his finger. She was glad that she did not remove hers, and there was something oddly reassuring in the gesture. Jalal had watched her talking to his mother all day about wall colours, furniture and whatnot, which he did not care to indulge in. The more Rukaiya spoke of homely things, like the colour and texture of curtains, the more he felt something oddly right about this. Now, he turned to Rukaiya, removing his headphones and asked her keenly. “Why? Do you feel otherwise?”
“I don’t know. You know them. They are impulsive because people oppose them.” She looked up as he nodded at her.
“But they are adults, Rukaiya, they must have thought this through.” He reasoned. Rukaiya narrowed her eyes, unsurely.
“Will they be happy?” She made him smile faintly.
“Happiness is a choice, Mohtarma.” He shrugged. “Even a beggar can be happy when a king can’t be…”
“They do love each other.” Rukaiya could see Jalal stir at the mention of love as he looked away briefly before speaking.
“All I can say is that, the little I know of them, they deserve each other.” He inferred, “And we as friends should support them.” He made her nod. Rukaiya stood up enthusiastically. “I will show you what I brought to dress up for the day.” He frowned at her words. “Are we supposed to dress up?” He asked as she nodded. “Yes, of course. Those are our best friends.” She was firm. “We should also buy them a present before we go.”
“A present?” Jalal asked, a little shocked. Rukaiya nodded. “Ajab gave me this beautiful bracelet for the engagement. Why would I go empty-handed for her nuptials?” Jalal looked confused. 
“I did not get anything from anyone.” He shrugged. “Why should I buy him a present?” Rukaiya smiled. “You help me buy one for Ajab.” She observed how he shrugged and went back to work. Rukaiya wondered if he was upset about the fact that Ajabdeh and Pratap were getting married. For the first time in her life, Rukaiya found it awkward to talk to him about what she wanted to ask.
On the third day of her stay, Rukaiya had just finished preparing for a meal and sat down to attend a meeting online when Jalal walked into the apartment, tossing his keys on the dining table and exhaling. She eyed him, cleaned up and changed as she finished her meeting and shut the laptop,
“Agra is becoming unlivable.” He exhaled as he walked into the kitchen and checked the food she had prepared.
“Do you want tea or coffee?” He asked as Rukaiya shrugged. “Tea, please.”
He put the kettle on the stove and shook his head. “Too much congestion and heat…”
“Have you thought of moving from here?” Rukaiya leaned against the kitchen archway and asked as Jalal narrowed his brows. “Back to Delhi?” He wondered. The market competition for freelance photography was more than in other cities. 
“Or any other cities?” Rukaiya shrugged, watching him brew the tea as she placed the identical cups down for the tea to be poured into. Jalal eyed her.
“Mohtarma.” He said with a hint of suspicion. “What do you have in mind?” He asked, as he poured the tea and let her take them, in a tray, back to the living room.
“I am just saying, any other city would be a nice change of place too.” She shrugged. “I would like to move from Delhi.” Jalal eyed her as she sipped on the tea and almost burnt her tongue, and gasped. Jalal shook her head.
“You seem nervous. Can you please tell me what you are thinking?” Rukaiya sighed. He knew her well enough for her not to sugarcoat things for him.
“ You remember the business expansions we talked about?” Jalal nodded as she looked excited. “I was thinking of proposing an expansion to Udaipur. I have researched the market and found that…”
“So you want to move to Udaipur?” He cut her rant about business off as she nodded. “If the board agrees, I may have to stay there for two years for the expansion. Then we can also eye Jaipur if it works out…” She smiled. “I bet if it works in Udaipur…”
“And you want me to move there for you?” Jalal’s words made Rukaiya’s heart skip a beat. When he put it in those words, it sounded more intimidating.
“I…” Rukaiya sipped on the tea carefully again. “Want to move…” A smile formed on Jalal’s lips as he eyed her. 
“What?”
“Tell me clearly, do you want to move with me or away from me?” Rukaiya eyed him at his question. “Wha…what do you mean?”
“I mean, here you are, changing everything around me to your liking with my mother, asking me if I want to move cities… why?” Rukaiya looked away, a little pale. “I… I… your walls look terrible, and Mamijaan said…”
“So you are being forced to do this?” Jalal frowned. “Fine. What about moving?”
“I am not being forced.” Rukaiya protested feebly.
“So you want to marry me?” Jalal’s words, for the first time, made Rukaiya feel intimidated as his hazel eyes pierced through her soul. Rukaiya gulped.
“Wh… what do you want?” Rukaiya fumbled. “I can ask you that, too. You complained about the city.”
“I asked you first.” Jalal looked amused as Rukaiya squinted her eyes at him. “Fine.” Jalal shrugged. “Let’s move to Udaipur for two years if you can convince the board.” Rukaiya looked up at him as he picked up the empty cups and walked back to the sink in the kitchen to wash them. A smile formed on her lips. He was supportive of her decisions. That meant something. Jalal smiled to himself as he let the water run, and he washed the dishes in the sink as well as the cups. He had the answer to his question, even when Rukaiya did not say it. They would deal with life as it comes. Right now, he was glad they were on the same page that something about this engagement felt too right to be annulled. He turned to see Rukaiya at the threshold again.
“There is something else we need to talk about.” She sounded serious as he wiped his hands on a towel and nodded at her.
“Is… umm… are you… umm… bothered…” Rukaiya chose her words carefully not to offend him as Jalal squinted his eyes and waited for her to form a comprehensive sentence.
“That Ajab is getting married?” Rukaiya looked up at him, hoping to read a hint of disappointment in his face.
“Did you ask her that when we got engaged?” He asked as she shook her head, and he walked past her. “Then, why are you asking me?”
“Because I know your feelings were different from hers.” Jalal stopped as he glanced over his shoulder at Rukaiya.
“Am I bothered?” He shrugged. “Yes. Because I care for both of them.” He was firm. “Is it because of some leftover feelings? No.” He shook his head. “I told you this before, the break-up was because I fell out of love.”
“I don’t know how that happens.” Rukaiya shrugged. “Sorry, I did not mean to…” Jalal walked back to face Rukaiya as she stopped. “It happens when you realise your idea of a person is different from the way they truly are. It also happens when people fall in love with people they don’t expect to.” Rukaiya’s heart raced as he shrugged and smiled. “I am glad you asked that, and we had this conversation.” He turned to go back to his room as Rukaiya felt like she could breathe again. “Me too.” She murmured.
The Foundation Day of the school at Sarangpura brought in media and guests from all over Rajasthan. The lawn of the school was decorated with banners and flowers, and a small Pujan was organised to start the day. By the time Jaivanta and Hansa arrived at the location with Shakti, in their Lehriya printed sarees, looking elegant, Ajabdeh had made sure the event was well organised. She was busy instructing one of the employees with the ribbon and scissors when she heard the cars arrive and turned. Ajabdeh was in a Jaipuri printed saree that she had handpicked from an artisan at Sanganer. She rushed to greet the elders and lead them to their seats. Ram Rakh and Udai praised the arrangements that she had looked into personally and wanted to meet the Mishras, who were also invited to the event. Ram Rakh understood from his daughter’s words that she had befriended Mrs Mishra and warned her to keep her professional boundaries, but Udai seemed glad to be proved wrong and praised her for working on the betterment of the company as well as the foundation. The event was about to start when Pratap arrived with the Mishras and introduced them to the family. Rukaiya, who was helping Heer arrange for the shawls the mothers were going to distribute to villagers after the inauguration, looked up to find that Jalal had just arrived after receiving his parents and her mother. She left Heer to greet them, and their eyes met briefly, unsure. Her mother caught hold of her hand and enquired, “Is something wrong?” Rukaiya forced a smile and shook her head. “No, what would be wrong?”
“Why do you look tense then?” Sultanam suspected.
“There is so much media present here, so I…” Rukaiya looked away and excused herself to find Ajabdeh.
“Where is the coconut that was kept by the priest?” Ajabdeh was enquiring as she turned at the sudden pull of Rukaiya’s hand.
“Ajab, when are you going to tell them?” Rukaiya looked pale as Ajabdeh exhaled. “I don’t know, Rukaiya, why are you cold?”
“Because I am tense. There are guests around, and so many media people. What if we get caught?” She whispered, unsurely, as Ajabdeh narrowed her eyes at her. “First of all, we are not kids. Secondly, you won’t get caught.”
“I know, but I also lied. You know how terrible I am with those.” She fumbled. Ajabdeh held her shoulders and shook her.
“Rukaiya Begum, I want you to be strong for me and hold the fort for two hours.” She said with intent. “Once the media and guests go, we will decide when to sit down with the parents and tell them like we promised.”
“Uncle was praising that you work great as a team, as the results of this quarter were quite positive.” Rukaiya smiled sheepishly.
“Heer, help me find the coconut from that basket. The one drawn with Sindoor.” Ajabdeh called her sister as she nodded at Rukaiya.
“Are you okay?” Jalal put his hands in his pockets as he walked up to her, and Rukaiya looked unsure. “I dread being asked questions.”
“Like?” He raised his brows. 
“Like what were you doing this weekend…” Rukaiya looked pale as he smiled, amused. “Attending my best friend’s secret wedding?” His words made Rukaiya look wide-eyed and alarmed as she slapped his forearm and looked around,
“Quiet, will you?” Jalal let out an amused chuckle. “Wow, are you hitting your Shauhar to be for … them?” Rukaiya shook her head with a disapproving warning.
“How are you so chill about this?” She enquired with a hint of suspicion. “How many times have you lied about major things before?”
“Mohtarma,” Jalal shook his head, “If I remember correctly, the whole idea of an engagement was a lie you agreed to, to stall everyone…” He rolled his eyes, observing her as  she looked away, “Until you wanted to really do it.”
“This is different,” Rukaiya ignored the amusement in his voice as she shook her head, “They have already done it, and it can’t be undone.”
“Just like the colour of the wall of my bedroom that YOU chose.” Jalal shrugged. Rukaiya narrowed her eyes at him. “I thought you said you liked it.”
“Depends.” Jalal shrugged, “On what?” She asked, confused. Jalal leaned in, forcing her to tilt her head back as he adjusted the Pasha on the side of her temple, “On whether you like it or not…” Rukaiya was unsure of whether he was serious or joking. For the past week, he had been teasing her about the impending nuptials, and she had never explicitly told him whether she wanted to do it or not. Perhaps because a part of Rukaiya did not want to admit that she liked the time she spent in Agra with him, envisioning making a home out of the apartment and saying yes to the marriage. It would change a lot between them. Rukaiya wondered if things had changed. Rukaiya looked away from his intense gaze and sighed before she walked away, leaving him with a frown.
Heer and Rukaiya exchanged glances as they watched Ajabdeh take charge of the Puja Havan, where Jaivanta and Hansa sat for the inauguration. The press was present at the venue as Pratap stood at the podium and gave a speech to introduce the mothers, and the inauguration programme was completed. 
“Ranima, meet Mr and Mrs Mishra.” Ajabdeh introduced them to Jaivanta as they touched her feet. “They have been very good friends, helped us around…” She smiled at Saubhagyawati Mishra, who smiled back with a faint nod at her.
“The least we could do for the trust you showed in us.”
“I am glad that the school will help people around Sarangpura. Dadisa would have loved it.” Ranima held Ajabdeh’s hand as she spoke with a smile. The image of Dadisa’s smiling face reflected in her inner eyes as Ajabdeh felt that she would indeed be proud. But then, would she be proud of them keeping their nuptials a secret just to prove a point? She eyed the mothers beaming proudly as her smile faded.
“Why are you standing there?” Pratap’s words jolted her, “Don’t you want to greet the guests?” She nodded reluctantly. Pratap watched the colour fade from her face as he frowned at her, stopping her from leaving by blocking her way.
“What is wrong?” He enquired as she shook her head, reluctantly looking away.
“Are you having second thoughts about what we did?” He asked as Ajabdeh looked up at him with a hint of disapproval.
“Hush, not now.” She shook her head. “Let’s go meet…”
“Ajab.” He made her stop. “I agreed not to tell them till you think it's time. Now the quarterly report has proved your point; we organised this seamlessly working together, yet again proving them wrong…” He inhaled. “ What worries you now?”
“ We lied, Pratap.” She looked up at him, a little sad. “They had certain ideas about our weddings…”
“Like selling us off to the best alliance?” Pratap grunted with a hint of amusement, “Don’t make me start.”
“You don’t understand, so leave it.” Ajabdeh started walking away as Pratap held her hand back by her wrist, warning her about the onlookers as she tried to jerk it out of his grip.
“What are you doing?” She asked, agitated.
“What are YOU doing?” He shook his head and folded his arms to his chest. “Why are you reacting like this?”
“Like what?”
“Like a criminal who did wrong… when they are the ones…” Pratap stopped to scrutinise her face. “Is it because you aren’t sure of me?” Ajabdeh looked up at his words at his scared face. In any other circumstance, it would have made her heart skip a beat to realise that her acceptance meant so much to him.
“ Don’t be stupid.” She sounded irritated. “It’s just that… there will never be a right time to tell them, isn’t it?” She shrugged. “Whenever we do, whatever we say, they will always be disappointed.”
“So?” He shrugged. “It doesn’t matter. It is not their decision, it is ours, and we are happy about it.”
“Dadisa used to say you can never be happy if the cost of it is disappointing or dishonouring your parents.” She said softly as Pratap shook his head,
“Did she not say it was the parents’ duty to be happy if their children are happy?” He watched her sigh as he asked, “What do you want? To stay like this forever? Never tell them?”
“That’s unrealistic.” She shook her head. Pratap smiled faintly. “I am relieved you know that.” He inhaled. “Ajab, you are not alone in this. This is my first time going against them, too.” She looked up at his words and managed a smile.
“I’m sorry. I was being…” He shook his head. “Let’s go greet some guests.” He diverted her attention to them.
“Kasturi?” Hansa inspected her terrace garden as she checked the leaves of some of the potted plants. It was the day after the Foundation Inauguration was a success, and after a late private party in the Havelis, everyone was sleeping in. She had woken up as usual and asked if Jaivanta wanted to take a walk around the property, and that is how both of them ended up in the terrace garden, which was Hansa’s hobby. “Why aren’t the grass mowed to perfection?” She asked as Kasturi came and bowed. “Did the gardener not come around?” Kasturi nodded. “Yes, Ma’am, he comes by every Saturday.” Then a thought suddenly dawned on her. “Umm… oh, this Saturday he was told not to come.” Hansa narrowed her brows slightly as Jaivanta watched. “Why? Who told…”
“Baisa Hukum.” She spoke a little unsurely. “Nobody was here on Saturday.” Jaivanta’s brows were raised as she asked what Hansa wanted to, “What do you mean nobody was here? Where were they?” Kasturi cleared her throat, unsure of whether she was overstepping some boundaries. “I… I…”
“Speak up, Kasturi.” Hansa scolded. 
“At the Mishra House.” She shrugged, “I think, Hukum.” Jaivanta let the maid disperse as Hansa frowned some more. “Why would all of them go to the Mishras?” Hansa asked as Jaivanta shrugged cluelessly. “We can ask the manager.”
Mr Chundawat bowed as the ladies enquired about a visit to Mishra's Home. He nodded. “I was informed to buy Mrs Mishra a gift for a baby shower. She is expecting, and everyone dressed up and went there.” Jaivanta nodded at his words and waited for him to leave.
“I don’t like this personal relationship with the Mishras.” She sighed. “They are just…”
“Only, there is a problem with this story.” Hansa shook her head. Jaivanta looked up at her. “When I met her, she mentioned being in her first trimester and not letting many know yet.” Hansa exchanged a puzzled glance with Jaivanta. “Why will the children lie to us?” Jaivanta shook her head.
“Why were they lying all this time?” Hansa looked pale as she sat down on the lawn chair, and Jaivanta stood in front of her.
“We need to ask someone what they are up to.” Jaivanta made her nod. “I am worried.”
“Me too… my senses are saying it's not good. Should we ask Heer?” Hansa suggested. Jaivanta liked the idea. Heer had always been the snitch among the children. Perhaps because she was the youngest among them and did not always get in trouble as much as Shakti and Ajabdeh did. 
Heer came out on the terrace in a Kaftan as she eyed the mothers sipping tea. She had been summoned here by Rama, her personal attendant, who had no idea as to why. 
“Good Morning.” She said in a cheerful tone, but her smile faded as the women exchanged glances.
“Where were you this Saturday?” Hansa cut to the chase as Heer’s heart skipped a beat. She knew nobody else was awake and was unsure of what they knew.
“What? Nothing.” She shrugged at her mother as Hansa glanced suspiciously. “Nothing?” She eyed Jaivanta, who smiled faintly. “I thought you went over to the Mishras?”
“What?” Heer’s brows arched. “Who said that?”
“Chundawat.” Jaivanta appeared calmer as she sipped her tea. “He said he was asked to buy a gift for a baby shower.”
“Yes.” Heer nodded, recollecting the facts, but she looked nervous about her slip-up. “I thought that was Sunday, I mixed up… yes, Saubhagyawati Mishra had her Godhbharai…”
“Did she now?” Jaivanta asked, tilting her head slightly. “Who else was there?”
“Ummm… her In laws of course, and her parents… her friends… umm… she has a sister… I think…” Heer stopped as Jaivanta got up from her chair. 
“Heer. Stop.” Her words were firm as Heer looked away. “I know you are lying.”
“We are not sure why,” Hansa added. Heer sighed. All was not lost. She looked up at the ladies.
“How do you know I am lying?” She asked as her mother shook her head.
“I expect such silly lies from Ajab, but you?” She sounded disappointed. “Nobody has a Godh Bharai in the first trimester.”
“Yes, Yes.” Heer nodded. “It was a baby shower… you know the… western style…”
“And such events do have photographers, don’t they, Hansa?” Jaivanta asked as Heer lowered her gaze again, biting her lips. “They do, Jaivanta.” They opened the social media of the Mishras and found nothing. Hansa looked up at Heer.
“Give me your phone.” Heer was taken aback by her mother’s order. As a kid in high school, she had heard of parents and siblings checking phones, but her parents always respected her privacy. Now, as an adult, she was being asked to show her phone. Heer clutched her phone tightly. “Umm… what ?” She looked shocked. “Why?”
“Because I know you will click pictures if you dress up. I want to see.” Hansa snapped.
“I did not.” Heer shook her head, intimidated by her mother’s anger as she eyed Jaivanta helplessly. “Ranima… I…”
“What are you hiding?” Hansa stepped forward, looking agitated as Jaivanta stopped her by holding her shoulder. “Hansa, you are scaring her.” She reminded gently as Hansa shook her head.
“She is scaring me. Why is she lying?” Hansa snapped. Heer was about to make a fresh excuse when Pratap stopped at the threshold, in his loungewear pyjamas and a t-shirt and asked, “What’s going on?” His hair was dishevelled, and his eyes were swollen because he had just woken up.
“You tell me.” Hansa eyed him as Heer looked over her shoulder and shook her head.
“Ranima?” Pratap walked out to the terrace as Jaivanta sighed. “What’s wrong?”
“Where were you on Saturday?” Jaivanta asked. Pratap opened his mouth to speak as Hansa interrupted.
“And don’t say a baby shower. We know it's a lie.” Pratap sighed. He eyed Heer, who stared at him, scared as he inhaled.
“I will tell you the truth.” He heard Heer gasp, “No, Dadabhai… she…” Heer stopped muttering as Pratap nodded at her. “Get everyone to the living room, Heer.”
Heer stared at Pratap sceptically. If he was doing this without consulting Ajabdeh, that was his biggest mistake. She would be furious. But she did as she was told and decided to tell Ajabdeh whatever had transpired beforehand. Ajabdeh hugged her as she still looked shaken. “It’s fine, Heer. Thank you for standing up for me.” Ajabdeh kissed her cheek affectionately as Heer almost choked. “What will happen now, Jija?”
“I don’t know. But whatever happens, we will face it. We will take responsibility for our actions. It's on us, not you.” Ajabdeh knew she was scared but hoped not to tense Heer further. Heer smiled reassuringly. “They are our parents, Jija, I am sure they will get angry, but eventually…” She stopped as she noticed Shakti at the threshold of Ajabdeh’s room.
“Everyone’s downstairs, and Dadabhai is expecting you there.” He eyed Heer briefly as he spoke to Ajabdeh, who nodded at him.
Ram Rakh eyed the pensive mood of his wife with a clueless frown as Udai walked into the sitting area and eyed everyone. Jalal was sitting quietly. Rukaiya sat beside Hansa as Jaivanta stood behind her chair. He shrugged.
“What happened? Is there bad news?” Nobody answered him as he sat down beside Ram Rakh.
“The children called us here,” Jaivanta stated matter-of-factly.
“Oh? Is it another expansion plan?” Udai eyed Ram Rakh, who shrugged. “I would not be surprised. They are over ambitious to say the least…” He stopped as Heer came down the stairs, followed by Shakti and Ajabdeh. Heer eyed Rukaiya and went to stand by Jaivanta as Shakti nodded at Jalal and stood by him. Pratap walked in as Ajabdeh glanced over her shoulder at him. She had changed into a yellow kurti and red palazzo in the morning, and they shared a nod before Ajabdeh cleared her throat.
“Before I say anything, I am telling you that whatever you will hear did not involve anyone else. Nobody was influenced, nobody was forced and…” Udai frowned slightly as Ram Rakh asked, “What are you saying?” Pratap walked up beside Ajabdeh and shared a glance as he slid his hand in hers. “WE have an announcement.” Hansa and Udai stood up from their seats as Jaivanta looked a little wide-eyed, and Ram Rakh’s jaw tightened. “WE got married,” Ajabdeh added as Jaivanta gasped, and Hansa put her hand on her mouth in shock.
“What do you mean?” Udai’s voice echoed in the hallway. “Is this a joke?”
“It is not, if you thought it was.” Pratap shrugged.
“Pratap!” Jaivanta stepped forward. “I don’t understand… I told you…”
“They wanted us to break up because they thought we couldn’t work together if feelings were involved. But we proved you wrong and…” Ram Rakh stood up at his words and walked up to Ajabdeh as Pratap’s hand tightened around hers.
“Proved us wrong?” He trembled in anger. “In the first quarter of your career?” He rebuked as Ajabdeh lowered her gaze briefly. “Do you have any idea what you…” Ajabdeh looked up at her father. Something in her gaze made him stop. “If you think it’s impulsive…” She murmured. “It was not.” Udai walked up to Ram Rakh. 
“They have lost their mind. Their goal is just to do the opposite of what we say,” he rebuked. “They did not think once about our reputation, our future and …”
“What about our future, Dad?” Pratap shook his head. “What about us?”
“Get out.” Udai looked away. “Get away from my sight right now, before I do something.” Jaivanta intervened. 
“Nobody is going anywhere, what is done is done, we need to think of what we can do…”
“If you think we will regret it, we won’t. We are not changing our minds.” Ajabdeh looked up as Jaivanta stopped and realised that for the first time, Ajabdeh had spoken up in front of her. A slap resonated across Ajabdeh’s face as Hansa came in between, sobbing hysterically. “Just stop shaming us more.” She raised her hand again, taken aback. Ajabdeh jolted back, her hand leaving Pratap’s as he held Hansa’s wrist and came in between.
“You are not going to raise your hand on her.” His words were firm. Heer wiped her tears and looked scared as Rukaiya held her hand. Jalal eyed Rukaiya, comforting Heer as he eyed Shakti, who intervened.
“They are adults, Dad.” Udai trembled in rage as he eyed Shakti.
“You shut up.”
“We were not lying when we said we were at the Mishras and they helped us.” Pratap said, “We are thankful for it.”
“I will immediately call a board meeting, and you will step down.” Ram Rakh spoke like he no longer wanted to hear or see them speak of their sinister deed.
“No, we are not,” Ajabdeh spoke firmly. Her father looked up at her. Her cheek was red where Hansa had slapped her, her eyes were teary, but there was a fiery determination in them that he had not seen in a long time. It was the same determination with which she used to fight for causes she believed in. Hansa sobbed as Jaivanta held her hand. “You can’t make us.”
“We have talked to lawyers; there is no company policy that can make us resign over our personal matters,” Pratap added. Jaivanta exhaled.
“Everyone, calm down. Nobody is going anywhere or doing anything today. First things first, Udai, Ram. Please calm down before you talk to them.” Udai shook his head and walked away “That is never going to happen. They broke my trust.”
“I am so ashamed that you are my daughter.” Ram Rakh walked back upstairs as Ajabdeh watched him go. She felt Pratap’s reassuring hold on her hand as she nodded at him.
“Hansa, sit down and compose yourself. Heer, be with her.” Jaivanta turned to Rukaiya, “Can I trust you to be in charge of the cooks and servants for a day?” Rukaiya nodded. Jaivanta turned to Shakti, “Prepare for us to leave for home as soon as possible. and Jalal.” She turned as Jalal stepped forward. “Tell the Mishras I want to speak to them.”
“They are not at fault.” Pratap intervened. Jalal eyed him and nodded at Jaivanta before walking away.
“You two, come with me.” Clueless at her words, Pratap and Ajabdeh followed her down the corridor to another empty room that had portraits of their grandparents and great-grandparents. Jaivanta walked in silently, shutting the door behind them as they walked in.
“Seek their blessings.” She said as Ajabdeh and Pratap exchanged surprised glances. 
“Don’t stand there, staring at each other.” Jaivanta scolded. “Take their blessings. Then mine. After that, we can see what…” Ajabdeh’s hug made her stop as Ajabdeh sobbed in her embrace.
“Silly girl, you are crying already? Imagine I have been married for thirty years.” She made Ajabdeh smile as Pratap shook his head, “Ranima!”
“Don’t just stand there.” Jaivanta spread her free hand to him, “You get a hug too.” Pratap walked into his mother’s embrace. Jaivanta patted their backs and turned to wipe Ajabdeh’s tears. 
“You know we need to do some damage control.” She reminded as they nodded. “People are stubborn when their egos are hurt, and only time can fix things. But now…” She eyed them. “When you said you got married, did you mean a legal one or a social one?” She eyed them as Ajabdeh looked red. Pratap cleared his throat at the lack of response from Ajabdeh.
“Umm… a legal one… She did not want to do a social one without you.”
“Good, I guess I trained her well.” Jaivanta smiled as she cupped Ajabdeh’s face. “Now that I have blessed my daughter-in-law for the first time,” she removed a Kangan from her hand. “This is your Muh Dikhai.” Ajabdeh touched her feet as she put the Kangan on her wrist.
“What do you want us to do?” Pratap asked as Jaivanta held his ear.
“You are asking me, now?” She scolded, “Besharam.” She shook her head.
“First, we talk to Hansa.” She added as Ajabdeh’s smile faded.
“She doesn’t want to see my face.” She choked. Jaivanta cupped her chin as she smiled, “She is your mother, she says things she doesn’t mean. She is just upset. Let me talk to her first, and you can come in after that.” She eyed Pratap. “You, stay out of it. In your room. Her BP will shoot up when you try to defend Ajabdeh. Let her shout, lament and show her anger, then she will cool down and hear you out.” Ajabdeh nodded at her words as she eyed an unsure Pratap, reluctantly backing off.
Udai Singh paced his bedroom chambers, miffed. He was afraid of this. He had warned Pratap. Seeing how calm his wife was about the whole situation, he had his suspicions that she supported them. Perhaps, even knew what was going on. He shook his head. How could he save his family’s power and position if they themselves don’t understand his concern? He sat down on the chaise, hands on his forehead, leaning back as he ran the scenarios through his head. He was scared. Scared of how much power and control Ajabdeh had over his firstborn, as if bossing him in the business was not enough, now that they had married, there was a lot at stake. He grunted inwardly, cursing Pratap’s stupidity. The girl surely told him not to sign a prenup. Separation was not an option now. Jaivanta would oppose it. If he knew them well, so would Hansa. They were traditional people. And a divorce, even if it happened, implied he had to pay her alimony of some sort, because Ajabdeh would surely claim she was lured with false promises. Udai Singh knew that if some of Pratap’s shares, or those of the Sisodiyas, for that matter, went to Ajabdeh, they would hold the majority in the company. Even if Heer married Shakti, that would not balance out the uneven control. Not to say what she would do if she came after them after an unsuccessful marriage. Udai felt the weight of saving his family name and power in the company on his shoulders. What could he do now? Consult a few lawyers? That would leak the news before they declared it. Jaivanta walked in and stopped, watching her husband in a pensive note. He looked up at her with disappointment.
“You knew it, didn’t you?” He grunted. Jaivanta sighed as she walked up to the chaise. “If you mean that they were serious about each other… yes… if you mean the nuptials…”
“I did not expect you to be so naive, Jaivanta.” Udai rebuked. “I gave you one task. I trusted you to convince him to get out of this mess.” He shook his head. “You led him on.” Jaivanta shook her head and sat down by her husband.
“Your anger is not with me. But I don’t understand. What is your opposition?” Jaivanta made him look up at her. “You did not oppose hearing Heer and Shakti…”
“Do you not see what I see?” He grumbled. “How can you be so stupid?” Jaivanta’s jaw tightened.
“I did not come here to be insulted.” She got up to leave. “I came here hoping my husband would share his concerns.” Udai looked up at her and murmured an almost inaudible apology. Jaivanta sighed.
“Fine, I will tell you something clearly here.” Udai got up to face his wife, “The girl has an unhealthy control over Pratap. What he does or says nowadays is so different from how he was as a person. Objective and smart.” Jaivanta smiled slightly at her husband’s words. “Have you considered that people grow and change, and he is not a teen anymore?” She asked as Udai shook his head.
“You don’t understand the long-term implications of this.” He looked troubled. “We know how stubborn he is. He will eventually grow tired of her running his life both personally and professionally.” Jaivanta frowned at his words.
“We don’t know their equation. Maybe he has more control over her than you think.” Udai did not look convinced as Jaivanta continued. “I understand your concern, but you are only thinking of it from a perspective where they don’t work out. What if they do? With Heer marrying into the house, the company would become a Sisodiya enterprise sooner or later.” Udai looked up at her hopeful nod. “The sisters can even stay together without any separation in business in the future.”
“You seem to put more faith in their unity over that of your own sons.” Udai frowned. Jaivanta smiled again. 
“It’s because I know the girls a little better than you do. And I can reassure you, this whole idea of a secret wedding was not Ajab’s. She is more confrontational than Pratap is.” Jaivanta placed her hand on her husband’s chest and sighed. “Trust me, accept them. Don’t make this worse.”
“And what if I don’t?” Udai asked, almost like a challenge. Jaivanta shrugged. 
“Do you think it matters to them anymore? What you think has no practical impact on their life. For all practical purposes, they are married, and they run the company.” Jaivanta made him look a little pale. “Think about it. With your acceptance, at least they will stay at our place, and you can keep an eye on them and be reassured, rather than them staying away and you imagining your son doing things you dread. Right?” Udai nodded, reluctantly. “Maybe you are right.” Jaivanta smiled, placing her head on his chest as Udai reluctantly held her. “Trust me, everything will be fine until you try to run their lives.”
“When did they ever listen?” Udai grunted again. He then let go and sighed. 
“ What is your plan?” He asked his wife. Jaivanta’s smile reached her eyes at the question. “Well, we will need to arrange for a wedding, and it will take a year. Till then, Ajab stays at Hansa’s place, and we say they are engaged.” Jaivanta’s words made Udai nod. His mind was running. If they break up as an engagement to the world, it won’t be the worst thing to find an alliance still. 
“That is a good idea.” He agreed. Jaivanta nodded. “I am not sure the children would like it, but I will be firm on it.”
“What about… her parents?” Udai asked, unsurely. Jaivanta shrugged. 
“I think you let Ram know what is done is done, and we should do what is right for now.” Jaivanta made him sulk. “Why does it have to be me?”
“Because he is more concerned about what you are thinking than his own daughter right now. He is embarrassed, and he needs the reassurance that we are fine.” Udai nodded, admiring how calm and practical Jaivanta was in crisis. He would have never considered all this alone.
Ram Rakh sat in the library cursing himself. He should have restricted his daughters like other fathers around him. He should not have allowed them to be so brave and independent. His reputation was at stake. What if Udai thought this was a plan? He knew how Udai’s mind worked. He shook his head. He was unable to make Ajabdeh understand his point of view. The first day he spoke of it, she was silent. He had taken her silence for her weakness. He had trusted her words. That was a rookie mistake. He would not do it again. There were two paths in front of him. If Udai and Jaivanta agreed, he would accept them too. He knew Ajabdeh would convince Hansa eventually anyway. If they did not, he would do the right thing and ask Ajabdeh to choose between Pratap and her position. He would assert his dominance as a father. The way Ajabdeh had always been outspoken and rebellious often scared him. He had never connected with her, or even grown to adore her the way he adored Heer. Heer was more feminine, quiet and lady-like. Ever since his mother had told Ajabdeh that he expected a son to continue his legacy, Ajabdeh and his relationship were sourly formal. He knew she tried too much for his approval, and it unnerved him. But what he did not expect was for her to lure Pratap into such a rebellion. He never expected Pratap to go against his parents. That too for Ajabdeh? She was his daughter, but she invited trouble. Did he not know that? He heard footsteps as Udai peeped in and Ram Rakh stood up. He was humiliated, embarrassed and self-aware. Things he had not felt for a long time, all because of her. Who said parents could not hate their children? He hated Ajabdeh now. He did not trust her very being anymore.
“Udai.” He found his voice, “I’m…” Udai’s smile reassured him.
“What’s done is done, Ram. We both know we no longer have control over what they do or think. The sooner we accept that, the better.” Udai’s words made him sigh in relief. Udai hugged him, reassuringly. “Let’s do the right thing now.”
Hansa refused to have the water Heer was offering her as she sobbed. 
“What will I tell your Mamasa? What will society think?” Hansa was worried. “And you? She did not even think of you?” Hansa rebuked. Heer’s lips parted, but her voice was too choked to speak. “She has made a laughingstock out of our upbringing. What did I do wrong, Heer?” Her question made Heer shake her head. “Tell me.”
“Maasa.” Ajabdeh appeared at the entrance of the room as Hansa stiffened.
“Heer, tell her to leave. I don’t want to see her.” Heer looked up at Ajabdeh, who nodded reassuringly at her.
“Listen to me once, and I will leave.” Ajabdeh’s words were firm. Hansa sat frozen in her spot. She did not look up, nor did she object to Ajabdeh as she sighed. “ Tell me what option I have? Would you be fine if you had to choose between Papa and …”
“Don’t you dare.” Hansa rebuked. “It’s not the same. He is my husband.” She looked up briefly at Ajabdeh’s pale face. She wondered what made this girl so strong yet shameless at the same time. She had not taught her such values. 
“How is it different? Pratap is… my… husband.” Ajabdeh stammered to the end of the sentence, and when she finished, she realised Heer was staring at her wide-eyed, and Hansa grunted inwardly. “He has always been the one for me.” The second time around, Ajabdeh was more confident, and she knew she was owning up to her feelings for the first time. She was acknowledging their relationship wholeheartedly for the first time, not scared of consequences anymore. 
“Look at her blabber.” Hansa rebuked. “Heer, tell her to leave. I don’t care where she goes and what she does anymore.”
“Hansa.” Jaivanta intervened, placing her hand reassuringly on Ajabdeh’s head as she wiped away her coming tears. “How are you talking to my daughter-in-law  like that?” Hansa looked up at Jaivanta and sighed as she gestured at Heer and Ajabdeh to leave them alone and sat down on the edge of the bed, facing Hansa.
Walking down the corridor, Heer finally asked, “Have you talked to Papa?”
“I don’t think he wants to talk to me anymore.” Ajabdeh sighed. “Not that we ever did.”
“Jija…” Heer hugged a taken aback Ajabdeh as she could not hold back her tears. 
“You trust my choices, right, Heer?” She asked, unsurely. Heer nodded. “Of course, Jija. You and Dadabhai… will be happy together.” She reassured her, holding her cold hands. Rukaiya walked up to them and placed her hand on Ajabdeh’s shoulder with a nod. “You may think you are alone now, but you are not. We are here for you, and we will always be there for you. Even in your worst decisions.” Rukaiya reassured her. “Which, I reassure you, this is not.” Something in Rukaiya’s mature words made Ajabdeh feel at ease.
“Don’t worry, Ranima will convince Maasa.” Heer nodded at her.