Serendipity

Episode #41 : Problems Loading

SCENE 1

“God, I'm tired.” - Mahima expressed while returning from the hospital in the evening. Harshwardhan and Anand were also present in the car. “If you had not given Abhimanyu off, it wouldn't have been a burden.” - she complained, looking accusingly at her husband.

Anand sighed. “Be sensible for once, will you ? Abhimanyu just got married last evening and he spent the entire evening till late hours at the hospital along with Suman. He deserved an off more than anyone.”

Mahima turned towards the window having no retort. She knew Anand was right. But the grudge against Suman was taking over her rational and logical side of mind.

“That reminded me, I have to arrange a dinner for the commissioner as he couldn't attend the wedding.” - Harshwardhan spoke, breaking the silence. “What do you say Bhaisaab, will coming weekend be okay ?”

“Let's head home and discuss with everyone. If the dinner is going to be at home then all the members should have a say.” - Anand advised.

Harshwardhan made a face. He didn't like to take opinions but respecting his elder brother, nodded nevertheless.

~

SCENE 2

”Good evening Maa.” - Suman greeted Manjiri stepping into the kitchen.

Manjiri, who was instructing the staff over the menu for supper, turned at Suman's voice with a radiant smile.

“Arreyy.. you are up.” - Manjiri said cheerfully.

Suman walked forward and touched Manjiri's feet. Manjiri caressed her head affectionately.

“You were gone for long Maa...” - Suman trailed off questioningly.

It was not like Suman knew when her mother-in-law returned home — thanks to Abhimanyu who kept her highly distracted throughout the afternoon. But as she came downstairs a few minutes ago, she inquired the servants who informed her Manjiri had returned around 3 and was currently in the kitchen.

“I bumped into my college friend at the temple. After YEARS!” - Manjiri exclaimed with a grin. “She told me she has shifted to Udaipur a month ago and forcefully took me along for lunch. I couldn't refuse.”

Manjiri looked fresh and energized that made Suman smile.

“Where's Abhi ?” - Manjiri asked.

“He is asleep.” - Suman replied, feeling her cheeks heat up and hoped that her blush wasn't visible. The warm bath had somewhat soothed her aching muscles but she was still feeling sore. Apart from that, she had spent a good deal of time in front of the mirror to hide her hickeys and make herself presentable before the family. Her blush deepened at the reminder of the artistry her nails had done over his body.

They could be safely called desperate and wild. It wouldn't be a stretch.

“I guess he'll be awake by dinner.” - Manjiri mused, bringing Suman out of her thoughts. “Once everyone arrives, we'll perform your remaining rituals as well. I was thinking, since your first rasoi is pending, why don't you make something sweet while the staff prepares for the dinner ?”

Suman was proud to keep smiling despite the panic rising within her. Cooking and HER ? The soup for Abhimanyu was the only thing she had ever cooked and the cupcakes, despite being her absolute favourite, were the dessert she had recently learned to bake. She couldn't possibly make cupcakes for her first rasoi now, could she ?

“Sure.” - she agreed, keeping the sweet smile on face while trying to think of a way out.

Manjiri's smile widened. “Superb. The staff is around if you need anything.” - Manjiri said, placing her palm on Suman's cheek. She gave it a subtle caress before walking out of the kitchen.