A Thing of Love

Confusion of Decisions

After Sunday dinner, Rohan and Aaradhya's relationship reached a new level. Though they had tried to bring their families closer, there were still many questions and complications to be resolved. Rohan's family saw Aaradhya as a strong, cultured girl, but still, they had questions about whether Aaradhya would be able to adjust herself in this simple family. On the other hand, Aaradhya's parents were worried that their daughter might end up in a family where their social standing and family values ​​would be compromised.

Over the next few days, they tried to resolve these complications, but an awkward silence prevailed between them. Both were loyal to their respective families, and they feared that their relationship would succumb to these family pressures.

Aradhya was sitting alone on the terrace of her house that evening. There was a light breeze blowing, and the stars were twinkling in the sky. But there was so much confusion in her heart that she was unable to feel the beauty of these stars. Her mind was restless, and she did not know what to do.

Just then her phone rang. It was Rohan's call. She picked up the call and said straight away without any formality, "Rohan, I don't understand how we will handle all this. I have to talk to my parents, and they are not going to agree so easily."

Rohan sensed the worry in her voice and said in a soft tone, "I understand, Aaradhya. But we have to think whether we will let these problems come in between our relationship? Whatever we both have felt, is it so weak that these family problems can break it?"

Aaradhya took a deep breath and said, "No, but we have to find a solution to this problem. My parents want me to marry into a family that suits their reputation and their place in society. And I think it's not just about them, it's about my own future too."

Rohan thought for a few moments in silence. Then he said, "I think we need to take a concrete step for our relationship. Maybe we should give our families some time. When they see that we can't live without each other, maybe they will agree."

Aaradhya noticed his point and said, "Giving time may be right, but will it solve the problem? What will we do if our families still don't agree?"

"We will still stay together," Rohan said firmly. "It's our life, and we have to decide it ourselves. Our families have respect, but if they don't understand our relationship, we have to prove ourselves."

Aaradhya felt a little relieved by Rohan's words, but she still had doubts in her heart. She knew Rohan was right, but the walls of family pressure and social prestige don't break so easily.

The next day, Aaradhya decided to talk to her parents. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but there was nothing to be gained by delaying any further.

When she reached her parents' room, both of them were sitting there reading the newspaper. Aaradhya went to them and said softly, "Mom, Dad, I need to talk to you about something important."

Her mother put down the newspaper and looked at her. "What is it, Aaradhya?" she asked.

Aaradhya took a deep breath and said, "I think it's time for me to tell you everything about me and Rohan. We both love each other, and I want you to understand that."

Her mother said with some annoyance, "We know you are dating Rohan, but don't forget that your life is not just yours. Your decisions affect our family's reputation."

Gathering courage, Aaradhya said, "I know, mom. But I am just asking you for a chance. Rohan is a good person, and we understand each other. Love is the most important thing in our lives."

Her father folded the newspaper and said, "Love is fine, but life doesn't run on love alone. Name, reputation, and respect also matter in our society. You are from a big family, and your marriage will be associated with our name."

Aaradhya understood that this fight would not be easy. She said politely, "Papa, I understand what you are saying, but are we doing all this just for the society? My happiness, my choice, does it have no importance?"

Her father said a little sternly, "Our responsibility is not only to your happiness but also to our family's reputation. And we don't want you to go to a family where your future is not secure."

Aradhya looked at her mother and said, "Mom, do you feel the same?"

Her mother said a little softly, "Aradhya, we want your happiness, but we fear that your decision is too hasty. We need time, and so do you. We will respect your decision, but first convince us that it is not just an instant feeling."

Aradhya nodded. She understood that it would take time to convince her parents. But she was not ready to give up on this relationship. She told Rohan everything, and together they decided that they would give more time to their families, but not leave each other.

In the next chapter: Rohan and Aaradhya are faced with new questions—can they give up everything to keep their relationship going, or will they have to find a way to find harmony between their families?