Accepting Reality ✔️

Part 9 - Family

Khushi realised that things were progressing well with Arnav. She had him in her grasp, but she was still miles away from her ultimate goal of becoming Mrs. ASR. Determined to take strategic steps in that direction, she knew that winning over his family would be crucial. While she already had a positive rapport with the Raizadas, especially with Naani who treated her like a daughter, Khushi wanted to solidify her position as a potential daughter-in-law. To achieve this, Khushi decided to delve deeper. She hired a private detective to gather comprehensive information on all the Raizadas. Though she knew them personally, she needed any extra information that could give her an edge. She wanted to understand their likes, dislikes, habits, and secrets anything that could help her navigate her way into their hearts more effectively. As the detective's reports started coming in, Khushi meticulously went through each detail. As she approached the temple on a Saturday evening, she wore a look of surprise and delight when she saw Naani there, surrounded by her family. The scene was bustling with devotees, and the air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of chants.

Devyaani: "Khushi! What a pleasant surprise to see you here!"

Khushi approached with feigned astonishment.

Khushi: "Naani! I had no idea you would be here today. What a coincidence!"

Devyaani: "Let me re-introduce you to some of our family members. This is Manohar my son, Manorama my daughter-in-law, and Akash their son, who have just moved back from Sydney."

Khushi: "It's a pleasure to meet you all again. We met a few years ago in RM"

Manohar: "The pleasure is ours, Khushi. My mother speaks very highly of you."

Khushi: "Naani is too kind. I truly owe so much to her and her values. If it weren't for her guidance, I would have struggled so much more. Arnav Sir saved me from so many hardships, and I know nowadays it's rare to find such care and concern."

Devyaani: "You're like a daughter to me, Khushi. And we're glad to have you in our lives. By the way you are here, today?"

Khushi (jokingly): "I was here to break my Teej fast. It's a tradition for me, hoping for a good groom. Of course, Arnav sir can't find and give me everything, right? We have to find some things for ourselves. How is Anjali ji, she didn't come along?"

Devyaani: "Anjali is on vacation in Dubai right now. She'll be back soon."

Khushi's heart sank slightly at the news but maintained her poise. She was hoping to meet Anjali. She knew Arnav loved his sister very much and gaining her favour would be beneficial.

Khushi: "Okay everyone, then I will take your leave"

Before Khushi took her leave, Naani asked, "So, Khushi, what kind of man are you looking for?"

Khushi: "I'm looking for someone who is caring, supportive, and understands the values I hold dear. Maybe you could help me find someone nice as well?"

Devyaani: "We'll keep that in mind, Khushi. It's important to have someone who understands and cherishes you."

As Khushi left the temple, she felt confident that her plan was unfolding perfectly. She had made a positive impression and gathered useful information, setting the stage for her continued pursuit of her goal. The evening after Khushi's temple visit, Naani and Anjali sat together in the family's sunlit breakfast room. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm parathas filled the air, but their conversation was far more intense than the peaceful setting suggested.

Anjali: "Naani, How was your day yesterday?"

Devyaani: "Oh, Anjali, I had an interesting encounter with Khushi at the temple."