Page 117 of One Hellish Wedlock
Aanya didn’t respond.
“Have you both discussed what happens next?”
“Not yet.”
“Then when, Aanya? Di’s leaving in two days. If you don’t talk now, when will you?”
“I know,” she exhaled. “I’ll talk to him today.”
“Good. Don’t delay.”
After a few more minutes of casual chat, Aanya ended the call. She couldn’t delay the inevitable. She sent Reyansh a message.
‘As you know, it’s ending. We need to talk about it. Seriously.’
She stared at the screen until his reply popped up:
‘We’ll talk at home tonight.’
His composed response unsettled her. Was he already prepared for the conversation? Did he know what she was going to say?
Chopra Mansion
“Oh my God, Reyansh! What’s all this?” Radhika exclaimed, stunned at the sight of her favourite sweets and fruits stacked neatly in boxes.
“It’s for you, Di,” Reyansh replied with a grin. “You won’t find these in California that easily. And denying a pregnant woman her cravings is a crime.”
Radhika laughed. “You’ll make a wonderful husband when your wife is pregnant.”
“You meanI’mnot a good husband already?” Reyansh asked.
That’s when Rishi joined in.
“Rey, you’re a great husband even now. Just… slightly below me.” He slung an arm around his wife as she lovingly tapped his chest.
“I’m home,” Aanya called out, dropping her bag on the couch and approaching them.
“You’re early,” Radhika beamed. “Is it because I’m leaving in two days?”
“Don’t remind me,” Aanya sighed.
“Okay, I won’t,” Radhika smiled. “But that won’t change the fact. Reyansh told me the jet is ready, and Rishi’s arranged all my appointments with the doctors back home. He even signed us up for parenting classes!”
“Wow, Di. You’ve got a packed schedule once you land.”
Radhika nodded proudly. “And I have one more agenda to complete before leaving.”
She turned to Nani and asked for the keys. Nani hesitated, clearly unsure, until Radhika gave her a firm nod. Aanya and Reyansh exchanged confused glances. Rishi stayed quiet, already aware of what was coming.
Radhika took the keys from Nani and stepped toward Aanya.
“I want you to take responsibility for this house and this family. For Nani. And for my Reyansh.”
Aanya froze. It was the last thing she expected. Reyansh looked surprised too, though a part of him felt hopeful. But he knew her. She would never say yes. Not when she was already looking for an exit.
“Di…” Aanya murmured. “This is… a huge responsibility. I don’t think I can—”
“You can,” Radhika interrupted, gripping her arm. “Every woman of the house takes charge someday. Nani can’t run everything forever. Now that you’re back, I trust you and Reyansh to handle it together. Consider this my return gift.”
