Prologue

The ting sound of the phone breaks her out of her thoughts.

One new massage has been received on WhatsApp.

'It's done. When you coming by?'

Nihar grips her phone more tightly.

Well, there is no going back now.

'Will be there is an hour', she types back.

'Cool', the reply comes after a minute.

Closing the app, she opens the call log almost immediately. A familiar, yet unsaved number sits on top of the list as she presses the call icon.

"Hello there, didn't expect your call now." the receiver picked up after the first ring.

"I won't be able to marry you", Nihar states over the phone with a firm voice.

A few seconds pass. None of the people on the line say anything.

"Did you even hear what I said?" Her voice jumped over a few octaves.

"Why are you saying this now?! I mean, the lawyer will be here in less than 3 hours. All the preparation's been done, and-"

"Are you seriously worried about the money this wedding cost you! I thought you were rich!" She says while looking at her new set of gel manicure.

"You know that's not what I meant." He sighs. "Can I at least ask why this sudden change of mind?"

"There are things stopping me from marrying you. I mean, I want to marry you, but I can't. You know what I'm saying?"

"No I don't! Listen, I know how much you love to talk in riddles, but this isn't the time. I'm just got back home, let's talk it out in person, like two responsible adults. OK?"

She checks the time.

"No, you listen. I'm not gonna say anything different in person. I'm at a clear disadvantage in this marriage. And I won't be able to do this unless my needs are fulfilled. And I thought, as my almost husband, it's your job to look after my needs. "

"Whatever it is that you want, will be done." Heavy footsteps can be heard coming from the hall as he whispers back on the phone.

The rejection hit him like a truck, just like she had expected.

"Words don't mean much though. I need it written."

The footsteps approaching her room sound louder.

"Where do you want me to write them?"

"You don't need to write anything. But, you'll have to go with me somewhere. I have a few conditions written. Read them, then decide whether you want in or not. And just so you know, if you say no, it won't be possible for me to go on with this marriage."

"Fine, Where are we going?" the sound came from behind her this time.

A tall, muscular man in a white, expensive looking sherwani leans back on the doorframe, looking drop-dread gorgeous in all his glory. Ayushamn's gaze lingers on his bride in awe. It cannot be known whether it was due to the recent change of events or her staring back at him in a beautiful white saree, looking like queen from fairytales.

The world seems to have stopped moving, and neither of them try to break the spell.

Nihar swallows the lump in her throat, "We're going to see my ex."