Page 67 of One Hellish Desire

“You can’t order me,” I snap.

Daadi watches our bickering silently. “You did that too. You brought me dinner at the boutique and forced me to eat.”

And a lot happened after that too, didn’t it? But I don’t want to remind her in front of Daadi. So, I give up and stand.

“Wasting your time with the lawyer again today?” I ask as she takes my seat.

There’s complete silence for a few seconds, and then she boldly meets my eyes. “Are you free this evening? I need some advice.”

My eyes sparkle. Maahi Awasthi needs my advice? I turn to Daadi. “Did she really say that, or am I hallucinating?”

A smile creeps onto Daadi’s lips. “You shouldn’t trouble her so much. She needs advice; give her some.”

“I’m ready to give her all.”

I don’t know why I say that, but I mean it. I’m ready to give Maahi all of me.

Maahi watches me, stunned, then focuses back on massaging Daadi’s feet. I leave them alone.

CHAPTER 19

VIKRAM

Since Maahi wants to see me this evening, I've called her to Leela Mahal. We can't talk at home; it's too risky. My parents' ears are always prying. Despite Daadi being unwell, Maahi had to go out for some important work. But she still managed to cook special meals for Daadi and instructed me to make sure she eats on time. I promised to look after Daadi in her absence, and I’ve done so brilliantly. I fed her, and now Daadi is resting. Dad is out, meeting his lawyer about the Devki Estate, and Mom, feeling insulted by Daadi’s refusal to see her, has gone to meet some old friends.

It’s evening, and Maahi will be at Leela Mahal in about an hour. I give Daadi her medicines.

“What are you still doing here? Don’t you have to meet Maahi?” she asks as I pass her the glass of water.

“I’m leaving in a few minutes,” I reply.

There’s a knock at the door. It’s Dad. Despite Daadi’s refusal to see him, he couldn’t stay away. Daadi sees Dad and turns her face away.

“Vikram, tell him to leave this room. I need to rest,” she says, her voice filled with pain. She has never ignored Dad like this before.

“Maa,” Dad says, walking in, “Don’t punish me.”

Daadi remains silent, looking away. Dad sits next to her and holds her hand.

“I know I’ve hurt you, but you have to understand I’m not doing this willingly. I have a lot of pressure, and expanding our business in real estate is the only way to grow and make money. Why do you think I’m doing this? Dad worked hard to build this empire, and I’m doing the same for my son.”

Daadi is not convinced.

“You don’t need to give me these excuses, Vanraj,” Daadi snaps. “I’ve spoken to Maahi. I’m sure she will give back the land to you.”

Now I’m curious. How did that happen? Is this why Maahi needs my advice?

“You did?” Dad is happy. “Maa, I knew you’d understand.”

“No, Vanraj,” she shouts. “I’m not doing this for you. I want peace. I want Maahi to live in peace. She has fought my battles enough, no more.”

Dad is hurt but remains silent.

“You will get what you want. You don’t have to butter me up or worry about my health. I have my grandson and Maahi worrying about me. They are enough.”

“Maa, please don’t say that.”

“Please leave, Vanraj. I need to rest.”

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