By Sweta Mishra
It was a crisp December morning in 2024 at Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport. The terminal buzzed with the hum of travellers eager to reach their destinations. Among them was Sweta, a newly qualified Chartered Accountant. After years of relentless hard work, she was finally moving to Bangalore to join Deloitte USI—a job she had dreamed of for years.
With her boarding pass in hand and her carry-on bag slung over her shoulder, Sweta walked to Gate 3. Despite the excitement of starting a new chapter, she couldn’t help but feel a pang of nervousness. Leaving her hometown was bittersweet. Ranchi had been her anchor, but Bangalore promised opportunities she couldn’t ignore.
Meanwhile, Abhilash, a seasoned traveller on this route, made his way to the same gate. A software engineer at Microsoft, he had been living in Bangalore since 2021 but frequently returned to Ranchi to visit family. Today, he was heading back after a week-long trip home. Dressed in a navy sweatshirt and jeans, he looked relaxed, typing away on his phone while the boarding announcement played in the background.
As the line formed at the gate, Sweta found herself standing just ahead of Abhilash. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed him—tall, composed, and seemingly engrossed in his phone. For a fleeting moment, she wondered what he might be working on so intently but quickly refocused on her own thoughts.
Once the boarding started, Sweta took her window seat and placed her bag under the seat in front of her. She glanced outside, watching Ranchi’s familiar landscape fade as she tried to mentally prepare for what lay ahead. A few minutes later, Abhilash appeared next to her.
“Seat 15B,” he muttered to himself, giving Sweta a polite smile before placing his laptop bag in the overhead compartment.
“Excuse me,” he said as he settled into his seat.
Sweta smiled back, offering a courteous nod.
The plane taxied down the runway, and as it took off, Sweta instinctively gripped the armrest. Despite being a frequent traveller, she still wasn’t entirely comfortable with the initial jolt of a flight.
Noticing her discomfort, Abhilash asked, “Not a fan of take-offs?”
Sweta chuckled nervously. “Not really. I know it’s silly, but I always feel like something’s going to go wrong.”
Abhilash smiled reassuringly. “It’s completely normal. It’s like riding a bike on a bumpy road—it feels unstable, but it’s perfectly safe.”
“Thanks,” Sweta said, easing her grip. “I needed to hear that.”
“No problem,” he said warmly. “So, are you heading to Bangalore for work?”
“Yes,” Sweta replied, her tone brightening. “I’m starting a new job at Deloitte next week.”
“Deloitte? Impressive,” Abhilash said. “What do you do?”
“I’m a Chartered Accountant,” Sweta said proudly. “I cleared my final exams earlier this year. This job feels like the culmination of years of hard work.”
“That’s amazing. Congratulations!” Abhilash said genuinely. “Becoming a CA is no small feat. You must have worked really hard to get here.”
“Thanks,” Sweta said with a grateful smile. “It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. What about you? Do you live in Bangalore?”
“Yes,” Abhilash said. “I’ve been there for three years now. I work as a software engineer at Microsoft.”
“Microsoft?” Sweta’s eyebrows lifted. “Now that’s impressive.”
Abhilash laughed modestly. “It’s just a job. But Bangalore has been good to me. I think you’ll like it too, once you settle in.”
“I’ve been to Bangalore once before,” Sweta said, her eyes lighting up. “One of my childhood friends lives there, and I stayed with her for a week. I already like the city—the weather, the greenery, and the vibe. It’s so different from Ranchi, but it’s exciting in its own way.”
“That’s good to hear,” Abhilash said, smiling. “It’s always easier if you’ve had a taste of the place before moving. But be prepared—it can feel overwhelming at first, especially with the traffic.”
Sweta laughed. “Oh, I’ve heard plenty about the traffic. My friend warned me too. But she also said the food and coffee are worth it.”
“She’s absolutely right,” Abhilash said. “Start with the dosas and filter coffee—you won’t regret it.”
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on everything from Bangalore’s best hangout spots to Sweta’s plans for her new role. It was the kind of conversation that felt oddly familiar, like reconnecting with an old friend.
About 40 minutes into the flight, the crew began offering snacks and beverages. Abhilash scrolled through the menu on the screen and decided on a sandwich and a cup of coffee. He pulled out his card to pay, tapping it against the machine held by the flight attendant.
“It’s not going through, sir,” the attendant said apologetically.
Abhilash frowned, slightly embarrassed. “Let me try again,” he said, swiping the card this time.
Still, nothing happened.
Sweta, who had been quietly observing, noticed his discomfort. She leaned over slightly. “Is everything okay?”
Abhilash looked at her, his ears turning red. “It’s just my card acting up. Maybe a connection issue or something. I’ll manage.”
The attendant was about to move on when Sweta interjected. “I can pay for it,” she said, pulling out her wallet.
“Oh no, that’s not necessary,” Abhilash said quickly, shaking his head. “I’ll figure it out.”
“It’s really no trouble,” Sweta insisted, handing her card to the attendant.
“Thank you, ma’am,” the attendant said, processing the payment swiftly.
Abhilash sighed, clearly flustered. “You really didn’t have to do that,” he said, glancing at her with a mix of gratitude and embarrassment.
“It’s just coffee and a sandwich,” Sweta said with a shrug. “Think of it as a small gesture to welcome you back to Bangalore.”
Abhilash chuckled reluctantly. “Well, thank you. I’ll make sure to pay you back as soon as we land.”
“No need,” Sweta said with a smile. “Just give me some good tips about Bangalore, and we’ll call it even.”
“Deal,” Abhilash said, finally relaxing. “But seriously, I usually don’t let strangers buy me food.”
“Well,” Sweta said teasingly, “now you’ll just have to think of a way to return the Favor.”
As the turbulence hit later in the flight, Abhilash reassured her again, making her laugh with his light-hearted comparisons. By the time the plane landed, their bond had grown unexpectedly strong, leaving them both with the sense that this wasn’t just a random encounter.
As they waited to disembark, Abhilash hesitated before saying, “It was really nice talking to you. If you ever need help settling into Bangalore, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
Sweta saved his number with a smile. “Thank you. That’s really kind of you.”
“Well, good luck with Deloitte,” he said, slinging his bag over his shoulder. “And seriously, I’ll find a way to pay you back for the coffee.”
“Looking forward to it,” Sweta said with a laugh.
As they parted ways at the terminal, neither realized that this small moment would mark the beginning of something much bigger than they could have imagined.
A Familiar Face in an Unexpected Place
It had been a week since Sweta had moved to Bangalore, and she was finally settling into her new apartment. The hustle and bustle of the city, the energy of her new job at Deloitte, and the excitement of starting a fresh chapter in life were keeping her busy. Yet, every now and then, her thoughts wandered back to the intriguing stranger she had met on the flight—Abhilash.
On a sunny Sunday morning, Sweta decided to take a walk in her society’s park. The sprawling greenery, punctuated with colourful flowers and children’s laughter, was exactly what she needed to unwind. As she strolled along the pathway, admiring the calm surroundings, she noticed someone waving in her direction.
She squinted, trying to place the familiar face. As the figure came closer, her eyes widened in recognition.
“Abhilash?” she called out, a mix of surprise and curiosity in her tone.
“Sweta!” Abhilash replied, grinning as he walked toward her.
“What are you doing here?” Sweta asked, still processing the coincidence.
Abhilash raised an eyebrow playfully. “I could ask you the same thing. Are you following me?”
Sweta laughed. “Oh, please! Don’t flatter yourself. I live here!”
“Wait, what?” Abhilash said, his expression shifting from teasing to genuine surprise. “You live in this society?”
“Yes,” Sweta said with a nod. “I moved here last week after starting my job. What about you? Are you visiting someone?”
“Kid me not,” Abhilash said, shaking his head in disbelief. “I live here too.”
Sweta’s jaw dropped. “You’re kidding!”
“Nope,” Abhilash said, pointing toward the towering buildings behind them. “Tower D, third floor.”
Sweta blinked in astonishment. “You’re joking. I’m in Tower E, fourth floor.”
For a moment, they both stood there, stunned at the sheer improbability of their situation.
“Well, I guess fate is working overtime,” Abhilash said, finally breaking the silence.
“Apparently,” Sweta replied, shaking her head with a smile. “What are the odds?”
“Pretty slim, I’d say,” Abhilash said. “But hey, this means I owe you that coffee now. Or a proper thank-you for saving me on that flight.”
“Hmm, I’ll take you up on that,” Sweta said. “But it looks like you have no excuse now. I know where you live.”
“Touché,” Abhilash said with a laugh. “Speaking of which, I’m throwing a small housewarming party next weekend. You should come. Bring your friend—didn’t you mention you stayed with someone here during your last visit to Bangalore?”
“Yes, my college friend Neha,” Sweta said. “She lives in the same society, actually. We hang out often.”
“Perfect,” Abhilash said. “Invite her too. It’ll be fun. Some of my colleagues are coming as well.”
“Sounds good,” Sweta said. “Text me the details, and I’ll be there.”
The Housewarming Party
The following Saturday, Sweta and Neha made their way to Abhilash’s apartment in Tower D. Sweta had mentioned the chance encounter to Neha, who was just as astonished by the coincidence.
Abhilash’s apartment was warm and welcoming, with a mix of minimalist décor and personal touches. String lights hung around the living room, and soft music played in the background. A small group of people was already mingling, chatting over snacks and drinks.
“Welcome!” Abhilash said, opening the door with a wide grin.
“Thanks for inviting us,” Sweta said, stepping inside with Neha. “This place looks great!”
“Yeah, it’s cozy,” Neha added.
“Glad you think so,” Abhilash said. “Come in, make yourselves comfortable. Drinks and snacks are in the kitchen—help yourselves.”
As the evening progressed, Sweta found herself easing into the atmosphere. Abhilash introduced her and Neha to his friends, most of whom were also from the tech or corporate world. They shared stories about Bangalore, from the best dosa joints to the infamous traffic jams.
At one point, Abhilash joined Sweta on the balcony, where she was admiring the city lights.
“Enjoying yourself?” he asked, handing her a glass of juice.
“Definitely,” Sweta said, taking the glass. “You’ve got a nice setup here.”
“Thanks,” Abhilash said. “But I’m more surprised by how small the world is. I mean, what are the chances of us living in the same society?”
“I know,” Sweta said, laughing. “It’s like something out of a movie. Or maybe Bangalore just has a way of bringing people together.”
“Maybe,” Abhilash said, smiling. “I’m glad, though. It’s nice to know someone from Ranchi here. Makes the city feel a little less overwhelming.”
“Agreed,” Sweta said. “And thanks for inviting me. It’s been a while since I attended a house party.”
“Anytime,” Abhilash said. “Honestly, I was a bit nervous about hosting. But it’s turning out better than I expected.”
“That’s because you’re a good host,” Sweta said, raising her glass in a mock toast.
“And you’re a good guest,” Abhilash replied with a laugh.
Their light-hearted banter continued, and by the end of the night, they both felt an undeniable connection. It was as if the walls of formality had crumbled, leaving behind a budding friendship—or perhaps something more.
After the party, Sweta and Abhilash started bumping into each other more frequently in the society—whether it was during morning walks, at the local grocery store, or in the elevator. Each meeting felt effortless, their conversations picking up right where they had left off.
One evening, Abhilash invited Sweta for coffee at a nearby café. They spent hours talking about their lives, their goals, and the quirks of Bangalore life. Sweta shared stories of her journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant, and Abhilash opened up about his move to Bangalore and his work at Microsoft.
“I’ve got to say,” Abhilash said, stirring his cappuccino, “you’re pretty inspiring. Becoming a CA is no joke.”
“Thanks,” Sweta said, smiling. “But you’re no less impressive, working at Microsoft and all.”
Abhilash shrugged modestly. “It’s just a job. But I do enjoy it.”
“Well, that’s what matters,” Sweta said.
As they talked, their bond deepened. What had started as a chance meeting was now blossoming into a meaningful connection.
Over the weeks, their friendship grew stronger. They often met up for walks, tried new restaurants together, and even started helping each other with mundane tasks like assembling furniture or running errands.
One evening, as they sat on a bench in the park, Abhilash said, “You know, when I first met you on that flight, I had no idea we’d end up here.”
“Neither did I,” Sweta said with a laugh. “Life has a funny way of surprising us.”
“Do you ever feel like some things are just… meant to be?” Abhilash asked, glancing at her.
Sweta looked at him thoughtfully. “Maybe. Or maybe it’s just about being open to what life throws at us.”
“Well,” Abhilash said, smiling, “whatever it is, I’m glad it happened.”
“Me too,” Sweta said softly.
As the evening breeze rustled the leaves around them, it was clear that what had started as a chance encounter was turning into something far more meaningful.
This story captures the organic growth of Sweta and Abhilash’s relationship, from a serendipitous meeting to a deep bond formed through shared experiences and time spent together.
The Goa Plan
It was a breezy Thursday evening in Bangalore. Sweta and Abhilash were sitting on a park bench in their society after their usual evening walk, sipping on fresh coconut water. The week had been hectic, and they both looked forward to unwinding.
“I was just thinking,” Abhilash began, stretching his arms behind his head, “next weekend is a long one. What’s your plan?”
Sweta tilted her head thoughtfully. “Nothing much. Maybe I’ll catch up on sleep, watch some series, or hang out with Neha. Why?”
“Well,” Abhilash said, his tone suddenly playful, “a couple of my friends and I are planning a Goa trip. One couple, me, and another friend. We’ve got a villa booked, and I thought maybe you and Neha would like to join?”
Sweta’s eyes lit up. “Goa? Really? I’ve been wanting to go for ages!”
“So, that’s a yes?” Abhilash asked with a grin.
“Absolutely,” Sweta said excitedly. “But let me check with Neha first. She’ll be thrilled, I’m sure.”
“Perfect,” Abhilash said. “It’s going to be fun. Sun, sand, and good company. What more could we ask for?”
Sweta laughed. “You’re really selling this, huh? Okay, count us in!”
The group set off early Friday morning, renting a spacious SUV for the road trip. Abhilash drove, with Sweta sitting in the passenger seat, while Neha and the others—Raghav (Abhilash’s close friend) and the couple, Akshay and Priya—relaxed in the back.
As the car sped down the highway, music filled the air. Sweta was in charge of the playlist, and soon, everyone was singing along to classics and Bollywood hits.
“Not bad, DJ Sweta!” Abhilash teased, glancing at her.
“Well, thank you,” Sweta said, flipping her hair dramatically. “Good music is essential for road trips.”
“Agreed,” Neha chimed in from the back. “But please, no sad songs. This is a happy trip!”
“Noted,” Sweta said with a laugh.
Midway, they stopped at a small roadside dhaba for breakfast. Over plates of steaming parathas and chai, the group bonded, sharing jokes and stories.
“I think this trip is going to be unforgettable,” Priya said, smiling warmly at everyone.
“It already feels like it,” Sweta added, catching Abhilash’s glance.
The group reached Goa by late afternoon, the salty breeze and swaying palms instantly rejuvenating them. Their villa was a stunning beachfront property, with a pool, a terrace overlooking the sea, and plenty of space to unwind.
“This is amazing!” Sweta exclaimed as they explored the villa.
“Glad you like it,” Abhilash said, watching her excitement with a smile.
The first evening was spent on the beach. They played volleyball, dipped their toes in the water, and watched the sun set in a burst of orange and pink hues.
“Goa sunsets never disappoint,” Abhilash said, standing next to Sweta as they watched the horizon.
“They really don’t,” Sweta replied, feeling a sense of calm wash over her.
The next day was packed with activities. They explored Old Goa, visited the vibrant flea markets, and tried authentic Goan cuisine. In the evening, Abhilash suggested a dinner at a beachside shack that was known for its live music and laid-back vibe.
Sweta noticed that Abhilash had been a little quiet that day, but she brushed it off, assuming he was tired. What she didn’t know was that he had been planning something special all along.
After dinner, as the group walked along the moonlit beach, Abhilash gently tugged Sweta’s hand.
“Hey,” he said softly, “mind taking a walk with me?”
Sweta glanced back at the others, who were busy taking pictures and laughing. “Sure,” she said, curious about his sudden request.
They walked in comfortable silence for a while, the sound of the waves filling the gaps between their words. Finally, Abhilash stopped and turned to face her.
“You know,” he began, his voice steady but laced with emotion, “when we first met on that flight, I had no idea how much you’d come to mean to me.”
Sweta looked at him, her heart starting to race. “Abhilash…”
“Let me finish,” he said with a small laugh. “From that day to now, every moment we’ve spent together has only made me realize how lucky I am to have met you. You’re kind, funny, ambitious, and just… amazing.”
Sweta felt her cheeks flush. “You’re making me blush,” she teased, trying to lighten the mood, though her eyes glistened with emotion.
Abhilash took a deep breath, then reached into his pocket. He pulled out a small velvet box and dropped to one knee.
“Sweta,” he said, his voice filled with sincerity, “I don’t want this to just be a trip memory. I want us to build something real, something lasting. Will you marry me?”
Sweta gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. She looked down at him, the man who had become her confidant, her friend, and now, someone who wanted to spend his life with her.
“Yes,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion. “Yes, Abhilash, I’ll marry you.”
Abhilash slipped the ring onto her finger, his face lighting up with relief and joy. He stood and pulled her into a tight embrace, the sound of the waves crashing around them like a perfect soundtrack to their moment.
In the distance, the rest of the group cheered, having secretly followed them to witness the proposal.
“About time!” Raghav called out, grinning.
Sweta laughed through her tears. “You all knew, didn’t you?”
“Guilty,” Neha said, running up to hug her. “But come on, it was perfect, wasn’t it?”
“It really was,” Sweta said, glancing at Abhilash, who was now holding her hand tightly.
The rest of the trip turned into an impromptu celebration. The group danced, sang, and toasted to the newly engaged couple. Abhilash and Sweta couldn’t stop smiling, their happiness radiating and infectious.
On their last night in Goa, the group gathered around a bonfire on the beach. As the flames flickered and the stars twinkled above, Sweta leaned against Abhilash, feeling a sense of contentment she hadn’t experienced in a long time.
“This feels like a dream,” she said softly.
“Then let’s make it our reality,” Abhilash replied, kissing her forehead.
As the waves continued their eternal dance with the shore, Sweta knew that this was just the beginning of a beautiful journey—with Abhilash by her side.
The Unexpected Call
Sweta had just logged out of work when her phone rang. It was her mother. Smiling, she picked it up.
“Hi Maa! What’s up? I hope you’re not calling to remind me to eat properly again,” Sweta said playfully.
Her mother laughed, a sound that always felt like home. “Of course I am! But since you brought it up, what did you eat today?”
Sweta rolled her eyes, though fondness crept into her voice. “Don’t worry, Maa. I made proper khichdi today. See, I can survive on my own!”
“Good, good,” her mother said warmly. Then, after a pause, her tone shifted. “Sweta, I need to talk to you about something important.”
Sweta immediately felt a sense of dread. She knew that tone all too well. “What is it, Maa?” she asked cautiously.
“Beta, there’s this boy from Ranchi He’s working in Bangalore, comes from a very good family. He is Dubey uncle’s son. As you know Aunty really likes you . They’re interested in arranging a meeting,” her mother said in a single breath.
Sweta’s heart sank. She had expected this conversation to happen someday, but not so soon. “Maa,” she groaned, “not this again. I told you, I’m not ready for all this shaadi drama again right now.”
“Sweta, just listen to me,” her mother said, her voice gentle but firm. “I’m not asking you to get married tomorrow. I’m just saying, come to Ranchi for a few days and meet him. That’s it. No pressure.”
Sweta felt her chest tighten. She loved Abhilash, but she wasn’t ready to tell her parents just yet. Things between them were still unfolding, and she wanted to be sure before bringing him into the picture.
“Maa, I just joined Deloitte, and I’m focused on my career right now,” Sweta said, trying to sound neutral. “Can’t we hold off on this for a while?”
Her mother sighed. “Beta, I understand you’re busy. And I’m so proud of everything you’ve achieved. But life isn’t just about work. It’s about finding someone to share it with, someone who’ll stand by you.”
Sweta felt a pang of guilt. Her mother meant well, but how could she explain that she had already found that someone? “Maa, what if it’s awkward? What am I even supposed to say to him?” she asked, deflecting the conversation.
Her mother chuckled softly. “Sweta, just be yourself. Talk about your work, your plans. If you don’t like him, we’ll leave it at that. But at least meet him once.”
Sweta sighed, feeling cornered. “Fine, Maa. I’ll think about it. But I’m not promising anything, okay?”
“That’s all I’m asking,” her mother said, relief evident in her voice. “And don’t worry, we won’t rush you into anything.”
As the call ended, Sweta leaned back, staring at the ceiling. She knew she had to tell her parents about Abhilash eventually, but now didn’t feel like the right time. She wanted to wait until things were more concrete between them, and until she felt ready to face the endless questions, she knew her parents would have.
For now, she decided to buy herself some time.
Sweta sat on the edge of her bed, the phone still warm in her hand. Her mother had just told her something that left her feeling both trapped and confused.The moment she hung up, Sweta felt her chest tighten. She had to meet this guy, but her mind was elsewhere—on Abhilash. She wanted to be with him. How could she explain that to her family, especially when she hadn’t even told them about him yet?
Neha, her best friend, immediately called. Sweta picked up, her voice shaky. “Neha… they want me to meet someone in Ranchi. Mom’s arranged it, and I… I don’t know what to do.”
Neha’s voice was comforting. “Sweta, take a deep breath. You have to tell them about Abhilash. If you don’t, you’ll be stuck in this situation forever.”
Sweta wiped a tear from her cheek. “I want to, Neha. But it’s so hard. They want me to meet someone else. And Abhilash I haven’t told him yet.
Neha paused for a moment before responding. “Look, you need to meet the guy your parents want you to meet. After that, you can tell them the truth. You have to be honest about your feelings.”
Sweta nodded, trying to calm herself. “You’re right. But I’m scared, Neha. I don’t know what I’m going to do.”
Before Neha could reply, the doorbell rang.
“Neha, hold on. Someone’s at the door. I’ll call you back,” Sweta said hurriedly, cutting the call.
She walked to the door, as soon as she opened it, her smile widened even more. “Abhilash!” she exclaimed, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug.
Abhilash hugged her back, but something about his embrace felt heavy, different. Sweta pulled back slightly, her brow furrowing. “What’s wrong? You look… off.”
He gave her a weak smile and stepped inside. “Let’s sit down. I need to talk to you about something.”
Sweta’s heart skipped a beat as she closed the door and followed him to the couch. “You’re scaring me, Abhi. What happened?”
He let out a long sigh, running a hand through his hair. “My parents called me today. They’ve found someone they want me to meet for marriage. Her family is apparently ‘perfect,’ and they think it’s time I settled down.”
Sweta blinked, her stomach twisting. “Wait… what?”
Abhilash nodded; his expression tired. “I told them I’m not interested, but you know how persistent parents can be. They’re not taking no for an answer.”
Sweta leaned back, her mind racing. “This is insane. My mom called me too—she wants me to meet some guy from Ranchi. I didn’t even tell her about us yet because I wanted to be sure about how we’d handle this.”
They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of their predicament sinking in. Sweta finally broke the silence. “What do we do now, Abhi?”
Abhilash reached for her hand, his grip firm yet comforting. “First, we stay calm. We both know our families mean well, even if they’re pushing us into this. But we have to handle this smartly.”
Sweta nodded, though her anxiety was evident. “So… what’s the plan?”
Abhilash thought for a moment before replying. “Let’s meet the people our families want us to meet. Not because we’re interested, but because it’ll buy us time and show our families that we’re not rushing anything. Then, after that, we sit both of them down and tell them about us.”
Sweta hesitated. “What if they don’t accept it, Abhi? What if they say no?”
He squeezed her hand gently. “Sweta, we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. But I know what I want, and it’s you. We’ll handle whatever comes, together.”
Sweta smiled faintly, her heart easing at his words. “Okay. Let’s do it your way. But promise me we’ll be honest with them soon. I don’t want to hide us for much longer.”
“I promise,” Abhilash said firmly. Then he pulled her into another hug, holding her tightly as if to shield her from all the uncertainties ahead.
As they sat there, wrapped in each other’s arms, Sweta felt a renewed sense of courage. Whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.
Travelling to Ranchi
Sweta and Abhilash sat in the back of the cab on their way to Bangalore airport, their fingers intertwined. The city lights flickered past, but neither of them paid attention. The silence between them was heavy, filled with unspoken words. Sweta finally broke it.
“Abhi,” she said softly, turning to him, “do you think they’ll understand?”
Abhilash exhaled deeply, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. “I don’t know, Sweta. But we can’t hide this forever. I just… I hope they see how much we mean to each other.”
Sweta tightened her grip on his hand. “Whatever happens, we’ll face it together, right?”
He turned to her, his eyes gentle. “Always.”
At the airport, they moved through the check-in and security process in silence, their usual playful banter replaced with quiet glances and reassuring touches. As they waited at the gate, Sweta rested her head on Abhilash’s shoulder.
“I hate this,” she whispered. “I hate that we’re pretending like we don’t already have everything figured out. Why do we have to meet other people when we’ve already found each other?”
Abhilash stroked her hand gently. “Because they need to see it for themselves, Sweta. They need to see that we’ve thought this through. We’ll give them that, and then we’ll tell them the truth.”
Sweta nodded but didn’t reply, her throat tight with emotion.
On the flight, she kept her head on his shoulder, her eyes closed, as Abhilash held her close. The cabin was filled with the hum of engines, but neither of them spoke. The silence between them wasn’t awkward; it was heavy with love, fear, and hope.
When they landed in Ranchi, reality hit them. As they walked toward baggage claim, they let go of each other’s hands for the first time since leaving home. Sweta felt the emptiness immediately, her heart clenching.
At the exit, she spotted her parents waiting with smiles. Her father waved, and her mother’s face lit up. Behind her, she knew Abhilash had stopped, his eyes silently urging her forward.
Sweta turned to him briefly, her voice a whisper. “Abhi… I want to tell them.”
Abhilash shook his head gently. “Not yet. When the time is right.”
She nodded reluctantly, her heart sinking. “Okay. I’ll see you soon?”
“Always,” he said with a faint smile.
With a deep breath, Sweta turned and walked toward her parents, forcing a smile onto her face. But as she hugged them, her thoughts were with the man she left behind, standing silently, waiting for their moment.
The Unexpected Meeting in Ranchi
The Next day Sweta got ready wearing a pink suit that Abhilash had gifted her. She had wanted to wear it for this meeting, despite the emotional chaos she felt inside. The suit reminded her of Abhilash, of the bond they shared, and of the overwhelming confusion she was facing.
She arrived at the hotel with her Bhabhi, her mind racing. Sweta was standing on the rooftop, looking toward the road. The hotel was quiet, the evening air cool. Her Bhabhi gently nudged her.
“Are you okay, Sweta? I can tell you’re nervous. Just be yourself. You’ll know when the right person comes along.”
Sweta nodded, but her heart wasn’t in it. Her thoughts were all over the place, and she had no idea how this meeting was going to go. She had agreed to meet this man, but in her heart, she was already thinking about Abhilash.
A few moments later, her Bhabhi said, “Here he is. He’s coming now. You two can talk. I’ll leave you to it.”
Sweta stood still, her back to the approaching figure, the uncertainty in her heart making her hesitant to turn around. She had already met this man in her heart, even if she hadn’t yet fully realized it.
As she waited, she heard the familiar voice that sent a jolt of recognition through her body.
“Hi”
Her breath caught in her throat. The voice was unmistakable. Abhilash. She didn’t turn around at first, still in disbelief, her heart racing with the realization of what was happening. She had known he would be in Ranchi, but never in a million years did she expect this. The situation was surreal.
Then, her Bhabhi stepped aside, leaving her alone with the person who had been on her mind for so long.
“Hello,” Abhilash said again, stepping closer.
It was at that moment that Sweta finally turned around, and the sight of him standing there, made her heart skip a beat. Without thinking, she rushed toward him, throwing her arms around him.
“Is this for real?” she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. “Abhilash, is this really happening? Did you know about this?”
Abhilash laughed softly, pulling her closer, the shock of the situation evident on his face. “No, Sweta. I had no idea. I thought I was meeting someone else, too. This is crazy.”
Sweta pulled back, her hands still resting on his shoulders as she looked into his eyes. “I can’t believe this. I’ve been so confused. I didn’t know what I was walking into. But I never imagined it would be you.”
Abhilash smiled; his eyes warm. “I know. I never imagined it either. But now that I’m here, I know one thing for sure: I’m glad it’s you. We’re meant to be in this together, Sweta. We’ve been dealing with the same thing, and now we know the truth. This… this feels right.”
Sweta laughed, wiping away the tears that had started to form. “It feels like fate. I thought I was walking into a nightmare, but now… now I feel like I can breathe again. I never wanted anyone but you, Abhilash.”
Abhilash pulled her into another tight hug, his voice soft as he whispered, “I Never knew my mom and my choice is so similar”
Sweta nodded, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. For the first time in days, she felt like everything was going to be okay. No matter what happened next, they would face it together.
The rest of the evening was a blur, the whirlwind of emotions and the unexpected turn of events still settling in their minds. But as they spent time together, they knew that the hardest part was over. They had found each other, and now they just had to be honest with their families.
Sweta and Abhilash’s path was clear: they would meet the people their families had arranged, but they would not let that dictate their future. They had each other, and that was enough to give them the strength to face whatever came next.
he cool evening breeze swept across the rooftop of the restaurant as Sweta and Abhilash sat at a quiet table, tucked away from the noise of the gathering downstairs. Fairy lights twinkled above them, casting a soft glow as they held hands, lost in their quiet conversation.
“I still can’t believe this,” Sweta said, resting her chin on her hand as she gazed at Abhilash. “Our parents unknowingly set us up with each other. What are the odds?”
Abhilash chuckled, his fingers brushing hers. “It’s like the universe had a plan all along. But honestly, I was nervous when I saw your parents at the airport.”
Sweta smiled softly. “Me too. I almost introduced you right there.”
Abhilash tilted his head. “Why didn’t you?”
“Because I didn’t want it to feel rushed. I wanted us to tell them together, when the time was right,” Sweta said, her voice steady but laced with emotion.
Abhilash squeezed her hand. “And we will. Together.”
Just as Sweta was about to reply, they heard footsteps behind them. They turned to see Abhilash’s sister, Aditi, and Sweta’s Bhabhi, Priya, standing near the rooftop entrance. Both women froze, their eyes widening as they noticed Sweta and Abhilash holding hands.
“Wait, wait, wait,” Aditi said, walking closer with a playful grin. “What is this? Abhilash bhai and Sweta… holding hands? Talking like they’ve been in love forever?”
Priya crossed her arms, smirking. “Sweta, is there something you forgot to tell us?”
Sweta’s face turned red as she quickly let go of Abhilash’s hand, and Abhilash cleared his throat awkwardly.
“Aditi!” Abhilash said, trying to sound firm but failing miserably.
Aditi ignored him and placed her hands on her hips, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “All my life, I thought love at first sight was just something in Bollywood movies. But here I am, witnessing it in real life! Should I go downstairs and tell everyone that my brother and Sweta are madly in love?”
Sweta looked away, her face burning with embarrassment, while Abhilash ran a hand through his hair.
“Aditi, Bhabhi, one minute,” Abhilash said, his tone calm but serious. “We need to tell you both something.”
Priya raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. “Go on. We’re listening.”
Abhilash glanced at Sweta, who nodded, encouraging him to speak. “Sweta and I… we’ve known each other for four months now,” he began.
“What?” Aditi exclaimed, her eyes widening.
Abhilash nodded. “We met on a flight to Bangalore. And since then… well, we just clicked. Last week, I proposed to her in Goa. We love each other.”
Sweta chimed in nervously. “We wanted to tell everyone, but then our parents arranged this meeting, and we didn’t know how to bring it up.”
Aditi’s jaw dropped. “You’re telling me that not only are you two already in love, but our parents—completely unknowingly—set you up with each other?”
Sweta nodded, her cheeks flushing. “Crazy, right?”
Priya smiled warmly, stepping closer. “Crazy? No, this is perfect. You two are perfect.”
Aditi laughed, clapping her hands. “This is straight out of a movie! I mean, how does this even happen?”
Sweta and Abhilash exchanged shy smiles, their nerves easing as they saw the genuine happiness in Priya and Aditi’s eyes.
“But,” Aditi said, pointing a finger at Abhilash, “you better tell everyone soon. I can’t keep this secret for long, and you know how much I love drama!”
“We will,” Abhilash promised, glancing at Sweta.
“Together,” Sweta added, her voice firm yet tender.
The four of them laughed, the tension lifting as they stood on the rooftop. For the first time that evening, Sweta and Abhilash felt a sense of peace. They weren’t alone anymore—they had each other, and now, they had support too.
The rooftop was quiet again after Aditi and Priya left, but the tension lingered. Sweta leaned her head on Abhilash’s shoulder, sighing deeply.
“Do you think they’ll really keep quiet until we get downstairs?” Sweta asked, a nervous smile playing on her lips.
Abhilash chuckled softly, wrapping an arm around her. “Knowing Aditi, I doubt it. She probably couldn’t resist telling everyone the second she saw them.”
Sweta groaned. “This is not how I pictured telling our families.”
Abhilash tilted her chin up, his eyes filled with warmth. “It doesn’t matter how they find out, Sweta. What matters is that they know how much we love each other. And I’ll stand by you, no matter what.”
She smiled, her heart swelling with love. “You always know what to say to calm me down.”
“That’s my job,” he teased, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead.
“Alright,” Sweta said, standing up and brushing her dress. “Let’s go face the music.”
They descended the stairs hand in hand, bracing themselves for whatever awaited them. As soon as they stepped into the hall, they were met with a room full of smiles and knowing looks.
Aditi darted forward; her hands clasped in mock apology. “Bhai! Bhabhi! I’m so sorry—I couldn’t keep it in. I told everyone.”
Sweta’s eyes widened, and she glanced at Abhilash, who let out a soft sigh, shaking his head. “Of course, you did,” he muttered.
Before either of them could say anything, Abhilash’s mom and Sweta’s mom approached them, their faces glowing with happiness.
Abhilash’s mom was the first to speak, her voice trembling with emotion. “Abhilash, is it true? You love Sweta?”
“Yes, Maa,” Abhilash said, his voice steady. “I love her. I’ve loved her since the day I met her.”
Sweta’s mom turned to her daughter, tears glistening in her eyes. “And you, Sweta? You love him?”
Sweta nodded, her voice barely a whisper. “I do, Maa. With all my heart.”
Without another word, both mothers enveloped their children in tight hugs, their joy evident. Abhilash’s mom pulled Sweta into a warm embrace. “You’ve always been like family to us, but now… now you truly are.”
Sweta’s mom looked at Abhilash, her smile radiant. “And you, Abhilash, you’ve made my daughter so happy. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”
Abhilash and Sweta exchanged a glance, their eyes brimming with gratitude and relief.
Aditi clapped her hands. “Okay, okay, enough emotional speeches! We need to celebrate this. I vote for a quick engagement ceremony—just family, something intimate. How about two days from now?”
Priya nodded enthusiastically. “That’s perfect. We’ll keep it small but special.”
Abhilash’s dad stepped forward, grinning. “Two days it is. Let’s make it official.”
Sweta blushed as Abhilash squeezed her hand. “Looks like it’s happening,” he whispered.
“Looks like it,” she replied, her heart racing.
Two days later, under a canopy of marigolds and fairy lights, Sweta and Abhilash exchanged rings in front of their closest family members. The ceremony was simple yet heartfelt, filled with laughter, love, and happy tears.
When it was time to return to Bangalore, Sweta and Abhilash sat next to each other on the flight, their hands intertwined, both wearing matching engagement rings.
Abhilash leaned closer; his voice soft. “So, Mrs. Almost Abhilash, how does it feel?”
Sweta giggled, brushing her ring with her thumb. “It feels like… I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”
He smiled, kissing her hand. “Me too.”
As the plane soared through the clouds, they continued their never-ending conversation, their love and excitement for the future shining brighter than ever.
By Sweta Mishra
Comments