“You seem weak, Di. Are you okay?”
“Don’t worry. Just doing a little research about our company. As you know, my training starts soon,” she says, voice flat, eyes avoiding mine.
Our company.
The way the Bajajs welcomed me with open arms is something I’ll forever be indebted for. Not once have they made me feel like an outsider, and that has always meant the world to me.
When my parents passed away, I was just twelve, crying helplessly in the hospital beside their still bodies. That’s when Neelima Aunt walked in like a saviour, promising to take care of me as her own for the rest of her life. I’m grateful I wasn’t left to face the emptiness alone. God gave me a second family, a loving aunt, and a caring sister who stood by me through everything.
A sister from another mother. And that’s exactly why I hesitated when Reyansh proposed. Because I know what he means to my sister, and before I decide anything, I need to be sure.
“Just ask, Adi. I know you’re dying to.” Her calm tone surprises me. I draw in a breath.
“Di, it’s about Reyansh’s confession. It’s been a week, and I think he’s waiting for my answer—”
“Yes, he’s been rambling about it every day,” she cuts in dryly.
“Di, I know you probably have feelings for him—”
“That doesn’t matter, Adi. This isn’t about me. It’s about you and him. Remember that.”
“But, I feel uneasy knowing you love him, and he doesn’t feel the same. I’m scared my decision to accept his proposal will hurt you.” She swallows hard before speaking again, voice steadier now.
“What happened that day was a bitter truth I need to accept. If he has no feelings towards me and if he feels for you, it’s not your or his fault, Aditi. And I won’t make you feel guilty for something beyond your control.”
“No, Di. I can’t bear to lose you over this.”
“I’m not that fragile, Aditi,” she says with a weak laugh, but I see the pain flicker behind her eyes.
“I’m sorry, Di. I just want to be sure you’ll be okay with whatever I decide.” She pauses, then nods with quiet assurance.
“I’ll always support you, Adi. Don’t ever doubt that.” She pats my shoulder gently, and I smile in relief.
“Thank you, Di.” I hold her hands, and she brushes them off with a soft grin.
“Just remember one thing, Aditi. This could be the biggest turning point of your life. Choose wisely. Do what your heart wants. After all you’ve been through, you deserve happiness.”
My eyes sting as she pulls me into a hug, her hand stroking my hair tenderly. When I pull back, she’s smiling, genuinely this time, and that’s the only validation I needed.
“I’ll leave now, Di.”
“Wish you luck on your new beginning, Adi.”
Did she sniff my decision?I nod, stepping out of her room.
I’ve always loved, admired, and respected Amyra Di as my own sister. But there were moments, brief, fleeting, when I felt something else. Maybe envy.
She was always the center of everyone’s world, the princess of two families, cherished by all, effortlessly drawing people in…especially Reyansh. And somewhere deep down, I longed for that too.
To be seen. To be someone’s priority. To be held close to someone’s heart.
Now that I finally have that chance, would I let it slip away?
Chapter 7
Reyansh
Aditi:
