"Bound by Destiny"

Chapter Four: Blood Drives The Self’s Development

While they were having their meal at the dining table, Priya was on the opposite side of Arjun. Occurrences such as these were the only occasions that would allow the two of them brief moments of respite from their busy calendars. However, the couple had been pulled together more by subtle expressions of love and kindness resulting from the seemingly chaotic starts of the previous months.

Each time, when Priya sees the man suddenly drop his newspaper and look at her with loving eyes, she cannot help it and starts smiling. “Did you sleep okay?”

“Yes. ” She smiled at him right; overcome by the strange feeling he gave her every time he was sweet. “You?”

“Better than usual”. So he said while he was taking his coffee, with a clear connotation from the earlier conversation suggesting that he was being laid off.

It was the kind of morning where they could sit together as friends with no agreement to revive their affection or to go out on another date. It was most enjoyable when all the distances seemed to be non-existent for a while. ”

One afternoon nonetheless, she agreed to visit her family due to the fact she misses them and to inform them about her stand with Arjun up until now. Consequently, when she got there they embraced her affectionately; while mother enveloped her with a tight hug and father smiled with joy from a distance.

Over tea in the living room later on, her mum asked, “How are things between you two?”

Priya laughed with a real delight she hadn’t experienced in a long time bubbling up. “Mother, we are doing well. We are getting better at understanding each other. At least now we seem to make something worthwhile.

Her mother laughed, with shining relieved eyes.“That makes Priya quite happy. We knew Arjun was a good man. Just like that, it takes time and effort.

Priya shook in fear of herself sensing fresh hope for her marriage. She talked about the way they became more intimate the little things he did that made her feel loved, and when they were both vulnerable.

Arjun was dealing with another kind of domestic pressure back home at the Mehta household. His father called for a meeting to address the continued corporate competition that threatened his family’s legacy. This was a turning point that demanded all his concentration and sharp judgment.

As the conference went on, Arjun started contemplating Priya and how helpful she had been. Knowing this is not his battle alone gave him strength and perspective.

Arjun had arrived later in the evening to find Priya at work on flowers in the garden. He came closer, his mouth breaking into a smile that is so rare. My dear, you are blessed with an artistic eye whenever dealing with flowers. I cannot believe how solid they seem every day.

Priya looked startled but filled with joy by his statement. “Thank you, Arjun.” This makes me fit in amongst the turmoil.

He shook, recognizing her position. "I want to express my gratitude.” It is really hard but I get solace from knowing that you are around.

Priya touched his hand gently as a sign of unity and support for him.“We all live this life together, Arjun. We’ll handle it as it comes.”

—

With time, Priya and Arjun were struggling through the intricate structures of their separate homes. Priya’s family members always supported her unconditionally even though she was worried about her situation as a Mehta member. In contrast, parents of Arjun put him under great pressure to conform to family values and reputation.

One night, Arjun told Priya about his background and how he had been forced by his father to attain success. Listening sympathetically, Priya felt hurt deep down in her heart like the little girl who had grown too early in life.

“It was not easy,” Arjun said, his voice gentle and vulnerable. Even so, it made me define myself today. At times, I’m asking myself if my actions are ethical or if I’m making the best decisions.

She touched him on the arm to reassure him. “You’re doing your best, Arjun. That’s all one can ask for you. You’re not alone in this either.

For the first time since talking to her, he felt calm and relaxed. His disturbed thoughts grew still. Talking, sharing their concerns and dreams brought them together as friends that night beyond mere appearance.'

Priya’s editor called her one day unexpectedly. One great story came up for her which would really make great progress in career life but it took quite a long time too.

This became apparent when she spoke about it with Arjun, who was just as eager as he was doubtful about what to do next.“I want to take advantage of this opportunity but at the same time, I don’t want any of these things affecting us in any way because we have come a long way.

He pondered over what she had said and understood how precious that chance was.“Priya, I support whatever decision you will make. I know how much your career means to you.”

There was gratitude in her eyes. “Arjun, thank you so much for that; it means a lot to me.”

Tensions were growing with the approach of her departure date. Arjun’s financial situation became more precarious and he now needed her more than ever. As devoted as she was to their marriage and professional aspirations, Priya remained conflicted.

They argued fiercely that night before she was about to leave. Arjun was dismayed by hopelessness on his part. “Perhaps at this point Priya you should not be going away. You are already here.”

Tears streamed down Priya’s face. I need it, Arjun, can’t you see?”

Their remarks hung heavy and unresolved in the air. Feeling a mixture of anger and sadness, Priya stormed out of the room. Left alone, Arjun went away; riven with guilt at himself and annoyance at others’ expectations.

Arjun approached Priya with a sad heart as she was to leave the next morning. “I’m sorry Priya for what I said. Even so, whatever it is, I will always be there for you.

Her eyes which were getting softer met his. “I was able to see that Arjun. And I am also sorry. This applies to us all.

They reached a flimsy armistice. Priya left the compound and climbed into their car, still feeling uneasy about all this; she did not know where they were going hence she couldn’t tell if their union would survive the storm approaching.

From the gateway, Arjun saw the car go away with a looming sense of foreboding on him.