Page 158 of One Hellish Wedlock

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Ruhi’s Aunt,

Did I cross any lines in your dreams last night? I hope not.

Ruhi’s Uncle,

Reyansh.

Aanya had just stepped into her office the next morning when the email popped up. How did he know she had dreamt about him?

She typed back a reply.

Ruhi’s Uncle,

You were sober but snoring like a tractor in my ear.

Ruhi’s Sleepless Aunt,

Aanya.

Reyansh chuckled when he read her message. Her humour was quick, unfiltered, and it made him smile without effort.

Ruhi’s Aunt,

Apologies for the snoring. I haven’t slept that peacefully in months. Maybe that’s why it got so loud.

Ruhi’s Snoring Uncle,

Reyansh.

Aanya laughed out loud at her desk for the way he admitted it without defence, without shame. Shikha noticed her flush and walked over.

“I see colour on your cheeks,” she teased.

Aanya quickly placed her phone face down.

“My husband’s message,” she whispered.

“Knew it,” Shikha grinned. “You two are dying to meet, aren’t you?”

Aanya swallowed hard.

“He does plan to come. But I don’t know when.”

“Aww. Look out for clues,” Shikha said confidently. “Men love surprises. He might just show up out of nowhere.”

Shikha was right. What if Reyansh suddenly showed up here without informing her? She decided she’d better stay alert.

***************

Ruhi turned two months old. Aanya took Radhika and the baby out for shopping. They stopped for warm clothes, toys, medicines. At the counter, while waiting, Aanya noticed a woman paying ahead.... Shagufta?

Before she could confirm, the woman disappeared out the door. Radhika returned with a dress.

“Aanya, will you hold Ruhi? I want to try this on.”

“Of course, Di.”

Aanya gently took the sleeping baby into her arms, but her mind was stuck on what she thought she saw.Could Shagufta Khanna be in California?

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