“They wouldn’t listen, Nandani. It’s a tradition of our tribe, and it’s like preaching to deaf ears,” I said, and she hugged me tightly.
“Oh my God! I can’t even imagine what would have happened to you,” her voice broke, and I hugged her back.
“Nothing happened to me,” I said, my voice shaking with emotion.
“Still not a thank you,” he mumbled from behind, and I couldn’t help but chuckle.
She pulled away and walked toward him.“What happens to Rashmika now?” she asked seriously, and he lowered his gaze for a moment.
“Give me some time; I’ll let you know,” he said, and I noticed he seemed distressed about something.
Last night had been playful, but he still seemed slightly off. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong with him.
“By the way, thank you so much for saving her,” she said, and he smiled.
“You gave me a delightful gift; this was the least I could do,” he muttered softly, and I narrowed my brows, unsure whether I should smile or be upset.
“Why did you come here early in the morning?” he asked, and she smacked her forehead.
“Yes, I came here to ask you to go with Abhinandan. He needs a hand with something,” she said, and he nodded.
“Alright,” he agreed, and then looked at me.
“Um… I should leave, too,” I said meekly, and she shook her head.
“That’s okay, I should probably leave... You two can continue whatever you were doing,” she said, walking away, but suddenly Kunwar-sa stopped her.
“Bhabhi-sa,” she turned to look at him.“Don’t tell Bhai-sa anything,” he said, and she narrowed her brows.
“What will I get?” she asked, folding her hands over her front.
“Fine, I’ll obey whatever you say for one entire year,” he said, and she frowned, shaking her head.
“This matter is too big for just one year. You will owe me for the next five years,” she demanded, and he inhaled deeply, frustrated.
“See, Suman, this is your best friend’s true face,” he said, looking at me, and I couldn’t help but lower my gaze shyly.
“Fine, you win,” he stated, earning a smile from her in return.
“Also, Suman, just don’t get pregnant before it becomes official, you know…” she said, and I immediately shook my head.
He chuckled.“Oh, you’re late, Bhabhi-sa; she already is,”
Her eyes widened in shock.
“No, no, Nandani, he’s joking; I’m not. We did nothing,” I clarified, and she sighed deeply.
“Your neck says otherwise,” she said, and he chuckled.
“Ah… that’s my art,” he replied, pride dripping from his words.
I couldn’t help but look his way. But Nandani interrupted,“But her art is better than yours.”
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20. Agastya
Bhabhi-sa’s words made me chuckle as I watched her leave us alone with a smile.
