Page 116 of One Hellish Wedlock
“You’ve always had my blessings,” she said, kissing his forehead. “But remember, relationships are like glass. Once broken, they might be mended, but the cracks remain. Take your time with her, Reyansh. Don’t force it. Let it grow.”
He nodded, grateful for her advice.
“I will fix this, Di. I promise. But for now, I just want you to take care of yourself and the baby. That’s what matters.”
A bright smile lit her face. “I want you and Aanya to be the first to hold my baby.”
Reyansh smiled, quietly stunned by the depth of that request.
“I’d like that too.”
“Then promise me you both will be in California when the baby arrives.”
He didn’t hesitate. No matter what it took.
“I promise.” He placed his hand over hers, sealing it with silent determination.
******************
The next two days flew by in a blur. Aanya had resumed work after the short break she took for the South Africa trip. Though she and Reyansh were on civil terms now, she kept herself emotionally distant. Her mind was crowded with thoughts, decisions, and their unresolved conversations. Chief among them was her living arrangement after Radhika’s departure. She didn’t wish to remain at Chopra Mansion, nor could she return to her father’s house and bear Kyle’s endless questions about her strained marriage. Moreover, she wanted to do something special for Radhika and Rishi before they left.
Suddenly, her phone buzzed. It was Navya calling.
“I was just about to call you,” Aanya answered, trying to sound cheerful.
“Don’t lie to me,” Navya snapped. “You’ve been back for two days and didn’t even think to call once. Our friendship is dying, Aanya. I can see its future.”
“Navya, come on… I’m sorry. You have no idea how abruptly we had to return from South Africa.”
“I saw your message last night, but I still expected your call.”
“I said I’m sorry,” Aanya softened.
“Fine,” Navya relented with a sigh. “Apology accepted. Now, brace yourself. I’ve got news!”
“I’m listening,” Aanya perked up.
“I got a modelling contract!”
Aanya’s eyes widened with surprise.
“What? That’s amazing! When did this happen? Where? How? Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Would you let me breathe and answer one question at a time?” Navya laughed.
“Go ahead. From the top.”
“Well… I met this guy, Rohan, about a month ago. Dad’s friend’s son. Handsome, sweet, single,” she added with a teasing tone. “He runs a modelling school and has tie-ups with some serious agencies. On my birthday, after you left the party, he called and told me a UK fashion label is looking for a fresh face. I jumped at the chance. They’re offering me a good package too! Can you believe it?Me, Navya Singh, finally earning!”
Aanya felt genuinely happy.
“That’s such a great feeling, Navya. I’m about to get my first salary too. Can’t wait to see it hit my bank account. For once, I feel proud… and not just like a burden.”
“Exactly!” Navya agreed. “You inspired me, Aanya. Watching you work so hard to become independent motivated me. Thank you.”
“Thank Reyansh,” Aanya muttered. “If he hadn’t shown me where I stood in life, I wouldn’t have been this determined.”
“Hmm,” Navya paused. “He must be struggling now that your ‘deal’ is about to end.”
