Chapter 1

The alarm blared indicating it was 7 a.m. Diya grumbled and started to get ready for her day. After making sure she had everything needed, she headed out while grabbing her car key.

Ring... Ring... "Yes, Tasha, what do you want this early?". Diya spoke again when there was no answer from the other line. "Tasha? I'm driving. If it isn't something important, call me later.".

"Diya wait! It's just... Dad wants everyone to meet for dinner this Saturday.".

A frown appeared on Diya's face. "Why? He wants to ruin my weekend now? I don't know when I'll be able to escape from this family!". But she knew that she can't. No matter how much she tried to get away from them, she always found herself coming back.

"Did you talk to mum? I didn't call her yesterday.". Tasha nodded although Diya can't see her. "Yes. She's fine. And grandma will be there too. You better come prepared. I don't think it'll be a peaceful dinner. Oh, the usual place. Bye then.".

"Hmm, Bye." Diya hung up the phone. "God, I know you hate me. But please go a little easy on me.".

"Hello, Miss Kala. I heard you're getting married. Congrats!". "Thank you, dear. When is your marriage? You're 26, not 16.". Diya's smile froze. 'Not again.'.

"Nowadays, It's a trend to not get married." she winked at Miss Kala and moved from there before the latter could say something else.

Diya did dream about her happily ever after. But everything came crashing down when her father, Balu, the man she thought will never do anything wrong, cheated on her mother, Mala. Balu only tried to justify his behavior and never felt sorry.

Her grandma said her parent's marriage was a love marriage. But Diya never once saw the so-called love between them. Years passed, but nothing changed. Their failed marriage only ended up ruining Diya and her siblings' childhood.

"Marriage?" Diya sighed. "I don't think that will happen anytime soon. Maybe in 50 years." she mumbled to herself as she walked into her classroom. "Hello, kids! How are you all?" her face brightened when she saw the lively faces of her five-year-old students.

"Okay, now show me the homework I gave you all last week.".