I 've received an invitation for an exchange program in London at King's College London. This opportunity is set to commence in a week, and up until now, I've been grappling with the decision of whether to accept it or not, especially considering my recent marriage. It's not that anyone from either family would have objected; in fact, they would have been thrilled that I had such an opportunity. If I had mentioned earlier that I was considering not going due to my marriage, it would have caused an uproar, likely resulting in them insisting I go regardless. However, now I have more compelling reasons to pursue the program.

Since childhood, I've been taught never to compromise on my career. Yet, when the course was announced a few months ago, I couldn't help but ponder that similar opportunities might arise in the future. However, I find myself at a delicate juncture in nurturing my blossoming relationship. Just as my career deserves attention, so does my life partner. Thus, I initially leaned towards letting the opportunity pass. However, I now realize that I need this not only for my career advancement but also for the sake of my mental well-being.

What's particularly appealing is that the program includes a trip to Istanbul for a medical camp spanning four months. This would provide a beneficial buffer, allowing me to be less accessible to him. I can't divulge to anyone that I'm going anywhere other than London, but I won't disclose that from London, I'll be departing for Istanbul.

It's been four days since the incident in Bangalore.

Now, I find myself sitting on the balcony, the weight of the visa, tickets, and passport in my hand.

"Are you ready?" Nandini Maa's voice breaks the silence as she enters the balcony unexpectedly.

I turn my head towards her, breaking away from my thoughts, and offer a smile in agreement.

"Chalo, the car is waiting for you," she urged.

I began to bend down to touch her feet, but she stopped me midway and pulled me into a hug.

"My well wishes are always with you, Samyukta. Be safe," she whispered.

"Ji, Nandini Maa," I replied, my voice filled with gratitude.

"Samyukta..." She hesitated, her expression weighted with concern. My eyebrows creased, but I maintained a smile, silently encouraging her to continue as I held onto her shoulders.

"Beta, no matter how much you both hide, I know something isn't right. I just hope this journey to London isn't a sign of separation between you and my Abhi. Please, both of you, take the time to understand each other. Maybe you'll find a way to mend things."

I looked down at the floor, unable to respond.

"I'm not asking you to stay in the relationship unhappily, Samyukta. But I believe you both have misunderstood each other. My heart tells me so. Because, believe me or not, he keeps calling me, and in between conversations, he tries to check up on you, just like you do with your Pita Sa."

I was stunned by this revelation and equally surprised that everyone seemed aware of our turmoil. As if sensing my concern, she shook her head immediately.

"No one knows, beta. No one. I haven't told anyone."

A wave of relief washed over me.

"Give it some thought, hmm?" She said while lightly shaking my shoulders, trying to lift my spirits. I smiled, nodding gently in response.

Khushi came running to us.

"Everything's set. Let's go, Chachi Sa!" she squealed with excitement.

We started making our way to the entrance of the mansion.

"When you return, bring us chocolates from there, okay, Chachi!" Khushi pleaded with puppy eyes. I couldn't help but chuckle, nodding in agreement.

Pallavi Bhabhi lightly patted her head and joked, "Is she going there to study or just to bring chocolates for you?!"

Everyone shared a laugh. I went around touching everyone's feet, seeking their blessings, while they all reminded me to take care, stay safe, and eat well.

They're so concerned about my eating habits and worried about the food in London that they even packed dry Indian snacks for me to eat.

I love them so much! I wish...

I pushed away my thoughts and settled into the car.

But what astonished me was the revelation that he keeps tabs on me?

Why play such games when you don't care? You're just a fake, Abhimanyu Singh Rathore.

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It had been an hour since I boarded the flight to Mumbai, where I would soon depart for London, away from everyone, just as he wished.

Within two hours, I reached Mumbai, and within three hours, I would be on my next flight to England.

I completed all the necessary checks and formalities at the airport, as well as managed to have my lunch. Despite the incident leaving me with little appetite, I forced myself to eat. I managed to gulp down two idlis before making my way to the lounge to await my flight.

--------------------------------

Now, settled into my first-class seat, the plane poised for takeoff, I felt an overwhelming rush of emotions.

Everything seemed to be happening at breakneck speed. I couldn't shake the feeling that I should have taken a moment to see him properly before leaving that day. The realization of how much I was missing him hit me with increasing intensity as the air hostess began delivering instructions.

The hum of the aircraft engines seemed to echo my inner turmoil, amplifying the ache in my chest. I found myself gazing out of the window, lost in a sea of thoughts and regrets. The familiar sights of the airport terminal slipping away beneath me only served to heighten my sense of detachment and longing.

Despite the luxury of my surroundings, a sense of emptiness gnawed at me, as if a part of me had been left behind on the tarmac.

I hurriedly pulled out my phone and composed a message to him.

"I'm leaving your family. You can return now."

With a quick press of the send button, I sent the message. 

Unwillingly, a tear trickled down my right cheek, which I quickly brushed off. I hastily tucked the phone into my tote bag, hoping to push aside the flood of emotions threatening to overwhelm me.

Soon the aircraft taxied down the runway, I closed my eyes, clinging to memories and hoping that somewhere amidst the clouds, I would find the clarity I so desperately sought.

˜”*°•°*”˜