Chapter 8

Disha, embracing a new day, woke up early for her yoga session. After freshening up, she chose a green kurti adorned with delicate red flowers, paired with leggings. A touch of simple makeup completed her look. She headed downstairs for breakfast before heading to work.

With a gentle breeze outside, Disha, clad in her green kurti, enjoyed the aroma of breakfast prepared by her mom. The sunlight streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the table. She sat down to savor a wholesome breakfast of parathas and chai, relishing the comforting routine before stepping out for the day.

As Disha was about to leave for work, her father, who was leaving early for some work, insisted, "I'll drop you off today." Disha happily agreed, grateful for the chance to commute together.

Disha left with her dad after bidding goodbye to her mother, planting a gentle kiss on her cheeks before heading out.

As Disha's mother immersed herself in work, little did she know that a marriage proposal for Disha was on its way.

In Singhania Mansion, everyone gathered for breakfast. Aryan left early, evidently avoiding the marriage topic.

At the breakfast table, Nita announced that after breakfast, she and Raj would be going to Disha's house for the marriage proposal. It would be nice if they went there personally instead of sending it through someone else.

Nita shared, "I think it's better if we personally go to Disha's house for the marriage proposal. It adds a personal touch to such occasions." Raj nodded in agreement.

Grandpa promptly added, "We'll accompany you. This matter concerns Aryan's future, and we shouldn't take it lightly."

Nita and Raj nodded in agreement, and the family continued with their breakfast.

Disha chatted animatedly during the car ride, and her dad listened attentively. He dropped her off, wishing her a good day ahead.

As Disha entered her office, she greeted Aditi and Vishal with a cheerful "Good morning!"

Aditi smiled, "Morning, Disha! How's your day starting?"

Disha replied, "Pretty good so far. Got a lift from my dad today. How about you guys?"

Vishal chimed in, "Same here, just the usual morning hustle. Any exciting plans for the day?"

Disha shrugged, "Not really. The usual workload. But who knows, maybe something interesting will pop up!"

Aditi nodded, "Agreed!

Vishal asks Disha about her weekend, "Hey Disha, how was your weekend? Do anything interesting?"

Disha replied, "Oh, it was great! Met Kajal, my childhood best friend, after so long. We spent Sunday together catching up on old times."

Vishal responded, "That sounds awesome!

The trio continued their conversation, sharing weekend stories and office gossip as they settled into the workday.

In the car, Nita and Raj settled in the back seat, accompanied by their driver, with Grandma and Grandpa in another car, both heading to Disha's home with the marriage proposal.

Nita and Raj carefully arranged the beautifully wrapped sweets and thoughtful gifts, reflecting the sincerity of the intention. They discussed the details of how to approach the topic with Disha and hoped for a positive outcome.

As they arrived, they stood in front of Disha's modest yet charming two-story house, appreciating the warm ambiance it exuded.

Nita took the lead and pressed the doorbell, followed by Raj, Grandpa, and Grandma, eagerly anticipating the meeting with Disha's family.

Disha's mother Aarti, opened the door to unknown strangers standing outside but, upon seeing the elders, she couldn't keep them standing in the doorway. She warmly invited them inside.

Nita and the others entered the living room, and before settling down, Nita offered a gift to Aarti. Aarti was initially confused but, seeing the genuine smile on Nita's face, accepted the gift.

Disha's Mother: "Please, have a seat. How may I help you?"

Disha's Mother: "Can I offer you some tea or snacks?

Nita: "May we have some water, please?"

Disha's mother: "Certainly, let me get that for you.

Disha's mother went into the kitchen and brought water, snacks, and sweets for everyone.

Nita took a sip of water to ease herself before initiating the conversation.

Nita: "Thank you. You have a lovely home. We appreciate your hospitality."

Disha's mother, also took a seat on the sofa, waiting to hear the reason for their visit.

Nita: "Namaste, Aarti ji. I am Nita Singhania, and this is my husband, Raj Singhania. These are my in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Singhania."

Aarti, recognizing the Singhania family from newspapers and TV, was taken aback by their presence in her house. However, she composed herself and greeted everyone with a warm smile, saying, "Namaste."

Nita added, "We are here for a marriage proposal for Disha. It would be nice if we could also meet Disha's father."

Aarti politely asked, "Can you wait for some time? It will take a little while for Disha's father to come here."

Grandpa, with a calm smile, expressed, "No problem, we can wait. We understand it was our mistake to come without informing."

Aarti excused herself and went inside to make a phone call.

In the kitchen, Aarti made a quick call to Disha's dad, explaining the situation and asking him to come home as guests had arrived for a marriage proposal.

Aarti: "Vijay, some guests are here for a marriage proposal. Can you come home as soon as possible?"

As Aarti conveyed the situation to Vijay, he inquired, "Who has come with the proposal? Any familiar faces?"

Aarti shared the details of the guests, mentioning Nita Singhania, Raj, and their in-laws who were waiting in the living room for the marriage proposal.

Vijay assured Aarti that he would be there shortly and disconnected the call.

Aarti returned to the living room and informed everyone that Disha's father would join them shortly. The guests nodded in acknowledgment, awaiting his arrival.

Aarti, filled with curiosity, eagerly asked Nita, "How did you come to know about Disha?

Nita began, "We came to know about Disha through Sameer, who happens to be Aryan's friend." Aarti looked surprised and inquired further, "How do Sameer and Aryan know Disha?"

Nita explained, "Sameer encountered Disha in a mall, and Aryan had a brief interaction with her as well." Aarti listened intently, absorbing the unexpected connection.

As they were chatting, Nita subtly placed Aryan's photo on the table in front of Aarti.

Nita introducing Aryan, "He is my elder son, 29 years old, and the CEO of Singhania Group."

Nita continued, "He is quite accomplished in his career, and we believe he and Disha would make a wonderful couple." Aarti listened attentively, processing the unexpected turn of events.

Vijay entered the living room, and Aarti gestured towards Nita and the others, introducing them. Vijay warmly greeted the guests.

Vijay reciprocated the greeting with a warm "Namaste" and joined the others in the living room. Aarti returned shortly with refreshments, setting a tray on the table and offering tea to the guests.

Raj: "Mr. Vijay, we have observed Disha's qualities and believe that she and Aryan would make a wonderful couple. We are here to seek your approval for this proposal and to discuss the next steps."

Vijay: "I appreciate your honesty and direct approach. Let me hear more about your family and this proposal before giving my response."

Raj: "Mr. Vijay, we come from a respectable and well-established family. Aryan is our elder son, and we believe Disha's qualities align well with our family values. We thought it would be good for both families if they consider a future together."

Grandpa: "We believe in traditional values and understand the importance of family in our culture. We would like to hear your thoughts on this matter."

Vijay listened attentively, processing the information before responding.

Vijay: "I appreciate your proposal, but I can't help but notice the difference in our social statuses. Singhania family holds a prestigious position, while we are a middle-class family. How do you think this difference will affect the relationship?"

Grandpa: "In matters of the heart, social status shouldn't be a hindrance. Love and understanding are the foundation of a successful relationship. We believe that both families can come together, bridging any gaps that may exist. What truly matters is the connection between Aryan and Disha."

Vijay expressed, "If Disha is comfortable with this proposal, I have no objections."

Vijay further added, "Disha is focused on her career, and she recently started working. I hope that won't be an issue."

Raj responded, "We have a modern outlook and don't have any issues with Disha's career aspirations."

Vijay replied, "I will discuss this with Disha, and we'll let you know her decision within a week."

They chatted for a while and left after bidding goodbye to Disha's parents.

After they left, Disha's parents discussed the marriage proposal and contemplated how to convey this news to Disha.

Vijay asked Aarti, "What do you think about this proposal?"

Aarti replied, "I am happy with this proposal. Aryan's family seems well-cultured."

Vijay replied, "I also find the proposal suitable. Let's talk to Disha and understand her perspective."

After saying that, Vijay left for work, and Aarti got engaged in her household chores.

Disha remained busy throughout the day. After finishing her lunch, she resumed her work. Little did she know that a marriage proposal awaited her at home.

The Singhania family, once they reached the mansion, went to their respective rooms, content with the way everything had smoothly transpired.

Aryan was busy with meetings as he had taken leave yesterday, but his mind kept wandering towards Disha and the impending marriage proposal.

After finishing her work, Disha bid goodbye to her office friends and started walking towards the bus stop.

Listening to music and humming a song, Disha reached home.

Once she reached home, she went into her room to freshen up and changed into shorts and a T-shirt.

Then she came down to the living room, sat beside her dad, who was busy watching the news.

After seeing the gifts on the table, Disha inquired her mom about the gifts.

Disha, with curiosity in her eyes, asked her mom, "Mom, what are these gifts for? Did someone visit us today?"

Hearing Disha's questions, Aarti stepped out of the kitchen and took a seat on the side sofa. She smiled warmly before explaining, "We had some guests today. They were here for a proposal."

As Disha heard about the proposal, she got confused. Sensing the situation, Vijay turned off the TV and looked at Disha.

Aarti continued, "Today, we had guests, and they brought a marriage proposal for you. It's from a good family, and they seem well-cultured. Take a look at this photo; this is Aryan, their elder son."

Disha, after hearing all the details, took some time to process the information. She remained silent for a while, deep in thought.

Vijay, seeing the expression on Disha's face, took her hand in his and with a warm smile, said with reassurance, "Beta, no one will force you into anything. It's your decision, and we will support whatever you choose."

Aarti added, "Absolutely, Disha. Take your time to decide, but know that we are here to support you. Think it through carefully."

With that, Aarti moved towards the kitchen to cook dinner, and Vijay started watching the news. Disha, feeling confused about everything that had just happened, went towards her room, holding a folder in her hand with photos in it.

Disha reached her room and settled down on her bed. Her heart was pounding as she held the folder. Slowly opening it, she removed the photo only to be shocked.

Disha couldn't believe what she was seeing. To make sure, she rubbed her eyes and looked at the photo again, confirming that it was indeed Aryan.

Without thinking twice, she decided that she would say "NO" to this marriage proposal as she didn't want to marry such an egoistic person.