Page 201 of One Hellish Desire

“If you were wrong, I didn’t miss any chance to punish you either. If you can forgive me for being so cold-hearted and keeping you away all these years, then I should forgive you too for any bitterness you showed me before.”

Maa looks at me with teary eyes again.

“If you were at fault for that one year of my marriage with Vanraj, I’ve been at fault for the past 25 years. I’m responsible for keeping you away from Vanraj and Vikram.”

Words choke in my throat.

“No, Meera. No woman has the right or the ability to keep her son away from his mother. I could have chosen to stay with you two in the USA, but I was so bound to this place and its traditions that I wanted you all to shift here. I was adamant and completely foolish to give up on my children. I should have fought to stay with you, just like you and Vanraj came all the way here to stay with Vikram and Maahi. I’m sorry. We could have sorted this out years ago, but our egos kept stretching it forever.”

I nod in agreement. She’s right. Our egos ruined so many beautiful years. Not anymore.

“Is that offer still open?” I ask, wiping my own tears.

“Which offer?” Maa stutters.

“What you should do to earn my forgiveness,” I mention. She looks confused. “Can I get a cup of strong coffee? I’ve heard from Maahi that you make the best coffee in the world.”

Maa’s face lights up. “Yes, yes. Sure. You rest, and I’ll bring you coffee.”

She is about to leave when I hold her hand to stop her. Before she can ask why, I hug her tight. For a moment, Maa is confused about how to react, but soon she embraces me, and I feel so relieved. I think I’ve earned my share of happiness.

MAAHI

Two months later

It's the inauguration of the Grover Group office in Delhi, an event the family has been anticipating for the past two months. We have chosen a black theme for the event, so Daadi, mom-in-law, and I are in designer black sarees. Despite the hectic schedule, my husband still looks dapper in his black suit, and the way he strides towards me with so much appreciation for my appearance today makes my heart flutter.

The media is here too, and they haven't stopped clicking pictures of us. As soon as we join the rest of the family, everyone looks at me. I'm confused. Vikram simply grins, as do Daadi and Aunty, making me even more bewildered. A tall woman, presumably one of the Grover Group staff, hands me the scissors, and my jaw drops.

“Me?” I ask, turning to Vikram, who nods. “Vikram, let Daadi or your parents do this. How can I?”

“Why not?” His father interjects. “Why not you, Maahi? You are a part of this family too.”

“I know,” I swallow nervously. “But—”

“We decided this two months ago,” Vanraj uncle continues. “All this is happening because of you.”

I'm speechless. It’s hard to believe Vikram’s father is saying this to me. The past two months have been great for the family in terms of bonding, and although I might not have said it openly, I’ve kind of forgiven uncle after seeing his dedication towards Daadi and Devki Estate. He’s also trying hard to make me feel like part of his family, and I have no qualms with him anymore. He reaches out and makes me hold the scissors.

“We all owe you a big thank you for being a part of our lives, Maahi. It’s you who has brought us all together. You deserve every right to cut this ribbon today. Please do the honors.”

My eyes well with tears, which I hide behind my smile. Vikram wipes the corner of my eyes and urges me to do the honors. Without thinking much, I cut the ribbon. The claps and cheers from the family, staff, and friends fill the air with energy as we all enter the office.

***************

One month later

It's been a month since the Grovers let me handle the inauguration. I still remember being the center of attention that night, with everyone from the Grover family pampering me. Vanraj uncle introduced me to all of his friends and associates with such pride, making me feel truly loved and part of the family. Their actions weren't for show—they genuinely care about me now. Seeing my father-in-law's dedication to the old age home, his changed behavior, and his efforts towards Daadi, I knew it was time to forgive him.

We're flying to New York today to finalize the location and complete some paperwork for my boutique. I’m excited for many reasons. Firstly, because Vikram and I are going alone again. Uncle will manage the new Grover Group office here, and Aunty and Daadi will be busy looking after the Devki Estate old age home. So, technically, this is going to be a honeymoon for me and Vikram for three weeks until we return to India. Secondly, I’m thrilled to stay in Vikram’s penthouse and fulfill all those desires he has always craved.

Daadi has packed some sweets for us, even though Vikram had denied it. My mother-in-law has given me all the necessary instructions for what she needs from the penthouse. She hadn’t packed much when she and uncle flew to India, so now she wants me to bring it all back. She also has given me access to all her secret lockers in her room, which have her favorite watches and diamond sets. I need to get one or two of them without forgetting. Noted!

Vikram and I have never been alone for such a long period without the family. It was only during Preet’s destination wedding in Udaipur that we had four days alone. So, I’m really looking forward to these coming three weeks with my husband all to myself.

“All set for your honeymoon then?” Aunty teases.

I swallow nervously knowing this is more than just a honeymoon. It is also going to be a business trip where I’m going to sign and finalize the most crucial start of my boutique in New York.

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