Page 146 of One Hellish Wedlock
For a fancy-dress competition, I wore a saree and dressed as a ‘Mother’ carrying a baby doll. I won first prize.
That’s just the beginning. Email won’t be enough. I’ll share the rest when we meet. Now tell me something about you. I bet you were a naughty little munchkin. Can’t wait to read your stories.
Your Estranged Wife,
Aanya
Day 19
Aanya woke up the next morning with the sun filtering in through the window blinds. Before she could begin getting ready for work, her fingers itched to check her inbox. And there it was…an email from Reyansh.
Wife (You are not estranged. We are going to unite soon. I like to be hopeful.)
I read your list and was completely intrigued. Would you believe I actually postponed my meeting just to finish reading it? Sunny was baffled, poor guy. He knows I never reschedule anything unless something urgent comes up. But he also knows that you are now my priority woman.
Back to your childhood tales—
It’s obvious how much you love your father. Daughters always have that special bond with their dads. I’m certain that bond will grow stronger between you and Mr. Malhotra.
I still can’t picture you with decayed teeth. Thank heavens your father stopped the chocolate supply. Your current smile is perfect. Don’t ruin it.
Your “crush” Nikhil. Hmm. Let’s just say I’ll ignore how smitten you were. I did check your social media account, by the way. He’s lost the charm. But his wife? Absolutely stunning. Doesn’t quite suit him.
You enjoyed trekking? Never guessed that. Now I understand where your fitness comes from. I can’t even imagine what would’ve happened if that tree hadn’t been there. Someday, I’ll visit that cliff myself and thank the tree. Maybe I’ll even initiate a tree plantation campaign there—’Save Future Aanya Malhotras.’
You portrayed a mother in a fancy dress? Impressive. That’s no easy role. And I have no doubt you’ll be a kind, nurturing mother when the time comes.
I look forward to hearing more about your childhood when we meet.
As for mine... there’s not much to tell. My parents died when I was very young. Di and Nani handled everything and gave me the life I have today. Childhood memories? I have none that are beautiful but maybe someday, I’ll create some with you.
Your husband,
Reyansh
Aanya felt the sting of emotion as she read the last lines. He had missed out on the innocence of childhood. She blinked back tears and quickly began typing a reply, glancing at the clock to make sure she wasn’t late.
