I swallow the lump forming in my throat. “Mom…”
She watches me carefully, waiting. For what, I’m not sure. An explanation, maybe. But where do I even begin? But I can’t hold it inside anymore. And then, I confess.
“I’m not what his parents want. I never will be. They want someone… someone who fits into their perfect world.” My voice is quiet but steady. “That’s not me.”
Her fingers tighten around mine. “I’ve always told you—marriage works best when both sets of parents agree and are on board. And if they aren’t, it only leads to heartache. Sometimes, it’s better to end it before it hurts you.”
I nod. “And his never will. That’s the reason it’s better we go separate ways.”
She stays silent for a long moment, and for a second, I wonder if she’s going to try to tell me otherwise. But then, she gives my hands a gentle squeeze.
“You did the right thing.”
I let out a breath I didn’t realise I was holding. “I know.”
“I just—” She sighs, shaking her head. “I just wanted you to have someone like him.”
I blink rapidly, pushing away the sting behind my eyes. “So did I.” I finally voice out.
She brushes a hand over my hair, the same comforting gesture from my childhood. “Maybe one day you will find someone whose love doesn’t come tangled in all this family chaos.”
I nod, forcing a small smile. “Maybe.”
She pats my hand before rising to her feet. “Once you’re done, come down. Breakfast is ready. I’m not letting you go without eating.”
I nod, watching her leave. The weight in my chest eases a little. It doesn’t make everything hurt less, but at least now, I know she understands.
???
I was so close to my destination, almost there, when my car decided to betray me. The engine sputters once, like it’s chokingon its last breath and then dies completely. I try again—nothing. Not even the dreaded click.
“What the hell?” I groan, slamming my hand against the steering wheel in frustration.
This was not how today was supposed to go.
Picking up the order from the café took way longer than expected, and then traffic was a nightmare, which is why, at ten at night, I’m still on the road instead of already checking into my hotel and collapsing into bed. Thankfully, the event isn’t until tomorrow, but at this rate, getting there in time feels like a long shot. Because I’m fucking stranded on a deserted road, my car dead, and my phone just as useless. No signal. No GPS. No way to call for help.
How the hell am I even supposed to make it to my hotel now?
Looking through the windshield, I know walking is not an option. It’s pitch dark, and the road looks like it could go on forever. Not to mention, a lone woman on a deserted road at this hour is the worst setup for any mishap. My stomach twists at the thought.
I should have asked Mili to accompany me. At least then, I wouldn’t be stuck here by myself. But when do I ever think straight when Aditya is on my mind?
If I hadn’t been so focused on running away from him, none of this would have happened. I would have asked my staff to handle this order like we always do. But no, I let my emotions get the best of me, like always. And now, I’m paying for it, stranded in the middle of nowhere with a dead car, a useless phone, and no idea what to do next.
It’s been almost forty-five minutes. Forty-five long, agonising minutes of sitting in this car, hoping—praying—that someone, anyone, would drive by. But the road remains empty, stretching into darkness on either side.
I keep glancing at the rearview mirror, then at the road, and then at the phone in my lap that still has no signal bars. Nothing. No headlights in the distance, no sign of life. I’m in a damn soup.
My feet bounce restlessly as I bite my nails. The initial frustration has long since faded into something grave. Unease. What if no one comes? What if I’m stuck here all night?
The air inside the car feels stifling now, my own breath too loud in the quietness of the night.
I should do something, but what? Step out into the pitch-black night, hoping I magically find help? Or stay put and keep waiting?
I exhale sharply and drop my forehead against the steering wheel. This isn’t just bad luck. This is a fucking nightmare.
Coming to a decision, I take a deep breath, grab my car keys out of habit—though they’re completely useless now—and push the door open. The night air is cooler than I expected, sending goosebumps across my skin. I wrap my arms around myself instinctively, trying to steal some warmth. At least I’m dressed for this—jeans, a T-shirt, jacket, and sneakers. Comfortable enough to search for help, even if every nerve in my body is screaming that this is a terrible idea.
