Invisible String

chapter 10.b : Shik Shak Shock

Word count : 746

Feeling his fingers pinch at my waist, I leaned back, closing my eyes and pleading, "Okay, okay, I'll hear you out. Just don't do anything, please."

"You really are a virgin, damn. Anyways, that's not the topic. I'm here to offer you a deal," Kabir said, and I couldn't help but blush. How did he know I was a virgin? Did my body language give it away? Or was it simply because I looked too young? [Samaira, always being delusional like me, lol.]

"Oh, Ms. Lost in Thoughts, listen here. Your company's reputation in the lighting field is good and has the potential to become something big. You just need the right push," he continued.

"So, what does that have to do with me getting married to you?" I questioned.
"Here's where my goodwill comes into the scene. By getting connected to the Rajvansh family, you could really become a top CEO. You might as well start another brand," he explained. His words did make sense, to be honest. A good connection could indeed take me to the top. But what was his win in all of this?

"What do you get from this?" I asked again.
"I need to take over the lighting industry. I thought joining hands would be better than competing against each other. Plus, I do not need an irritating competitor," he stated matter-of-factly.

"I'll give you time to think about this. You have an hour until I leave. Decide and let me know," he concluded before leaving the room.

I was left feeling confused. Should I choose a lovey-dovey life or a life where my career is touching the sky? Getting connected to the Rajvansh family would indeed be a significant advantage. But I didn't see anything wrong with it. It was going to happen someday, right? Besides, I trusted Kabir more than some random stranger. I knew how to beat him and get on his nerves. He couldn't trap me into something.

Lost in my thoughts, I realized Kabir had left the room about 15 minutes ago. Heading downstairs, I saw my dad and uncle engrossed in conversation. My dad seemed happy with Kabir's presence. He didn't have to be formal or feel obligated to obey the groom's family. I liked seeing them together. They looked very happy.

Spending another hour with the family, they were finally ready to leave after what felt like an eternity with my thoughts swirling around me.

"So, Samaira, is it a yes?" Mrs. Rajvansh asked me, and I was taken aback, even though I knew this would be the end of the conversation for today.

"Um, I..." I began, but before I could complete my sentence, my dad stood up.
"Can I have a moment with my daughter?" he requested, gently pulling me out of the drawing room.

"Beta, are you sure? You don't seem happy... I know it's too quick to judge, but if you don't want it, you can say no. We are not pressuring you," Dad said, his concern evident in his voice. I felt a wave of emotion wash over me. God, my dad is really cute.

"No, Dad, I am ready. I promise," I assured him, pulling him into a hug. He seemed emotional too; he would definitely cry tonight, secretly.

"Aree, Damini, mithai laao (Hey Damini, get the sweets)!" my dad exclaimed enthusiastically as we headed back towards the drawing room. Leaving the situation completely in the hands of fate, I took a piece of kaju katli and hoped for the best.
"Let's do the roka (engagement) now?" Kabir said, and for a moment, I wondered if he had gone completely nuts.

"Yes, yes, Vaidehi, get the rings," Mr. Rajvansh chimed in. What? No, not now! I'm not ready!

"Hahaha, look at your face, Samaira. We're kidding, chill," Mom said, as if her joke hadn't just given me a mini heart attack. "But kuch rasme hai, woh karle?"(there are a few rituals to perform , should we do that) Mrs. Rajvansh suggested, and my mom nodded in agreement.

Sitting on the sofa with Kabir, I was given a red chunni, along with some fruits, shagun, and a coconut. This meant we were really getting married. Shaking off my thoughts, I smiled for the pictures. Soon, they left, and I rushed to my room to inform Naina about this. She definitely wouldn't believe it.
Dialing her number, I waited for Naina to pick up.

Double updates today! I hope y'all are enjoying reading this book so far, drop a comment to express your reviews and vote please!!