Post the return from Egypt, Sameer and Naina once again got busy with family related activities.

Vishakha invited Rama and Malati for lunch the day following their return. Both the women listened in awe as Naina shared the details of their trip and Damadji was once again highly praised. But this time Naina was very happy to see her husband being showered by this well-deserved praise!

At some point, Vishakha complimented Rama "I can't tell you how relived I was to see Naina handling Mummyji with so much patience! You know how it is... I can't really do much even when she is being very unreasonable."

Rama immediately tutted back in understanding "I have explained to Naina, we have to overlook some things especially in the elders." She then continued, looking at her daughter with pride, "Don't worry, Naina is very responsible. Not once has she caused me any anxieties in all these years! Not a single wrong step! And I am sure she won't cause any troubles in your home either."

Sameer eyed his wife's slightly flustered face, as she muttered "Maa, stop praising me so much. I am not perfect!" But Rama staunchly asserted "Behenji, everyone would keep questioning my decision to allow her so much freedom. But I always told them, I completely trust my daughter!"

Sameer's thoughts flew to the worries that had been on his mind for the last few days. Had her panic attacks been solely the result of her pain of loss or had the fear of her family's reactions played a part into it too? Though her mother's trust was heartwarming, had it compounded the pressure to be completely faultless?

In the following day, much of Naina's time was filled with accompanying Vishakha on visits to family and friends or shopping for authentic Indian must-haves. Sameer watched in surprise the shopping bags they returned with every day! Though he was a little exasperated that Naina was constantly busy, he was also extremely pleased to see the growing warmth between his mother and wife.

Soon Vishakha, content to see her son settled in happy matrimony, headed back to London

Sameer, who had been looking forward to finally having his wife to himself, realized with annoyance that this also marked the end of Naina's leave from work. And of course, though his mother had left, Ramdhari and his family were very much committed to ensuring that Naina Bhabhi was always well looked after!

The couple now settled in a new routine, of grabbing a quick breakfast together before rushing off to their respective jobs. For the couple of weeks, Sameer insisted on both dropping her off at work before heading to the factory himself and then picking her up in the evenings.

Soon they realized that it added half an hour to his commute one-way. Also, on days when Naina was scheduled to lead a tour, she had to start much earlier than him. Hence, they slowly reverted to their earlier routine of evening pickups. Of course, he was no longer required to park at a distance from her office now!

But as soon as they returned home, Naina would be in great demand. Champa would share all the significant and not so significant happenings of the day. Though his Bhaiya's Hindi vocabulary had progressed a bit over the months, Ramdhari was happy to start approaching his Bhabhi with all requests and reports: household bills and maintenance, directions for the gardener and so on.

Munni, unlike her parents remained partial to Sameer though! She continued running to the door to greet him by clinging to his legs. As he removed his shoes and glanced through the mail, she would complain to him about all the atrocities that her parents had committed against her that day. Agreed, they were usually only about not being allowed to jump on the sofas or being forced to sit in one place for meals. Naina would initially just giggle seeing their interactions, but then started acting as Munni's translator and then finally started teaching her English. Much to Sameer's amusement, as Munni's English vocabulary picked up, her list of complaints against her parent also grew!

* * *

About a week after Vishakha had returned to England, one evening as they were watching TV, Sameer suddenly turned down the volume. Fidgeting with the remote, he said "I would like to make an appointment for you to see Dr Chakraborty." She rolled her eyes "It's just a cold! It's the weather baba... I will feel better in a couple of day." He bit on his lip before responding in a rush "Not for the cold... Dr Chakraborty is a physiatrist. He is a good friend of Dr Singh, Nanu's family doctor."

Naina stammered "Physiatrist... why? I told you... I am fine." Then she paled "What did you tell Dr Singh? Sameer, how could you discuss that with someone who was close to Nanaji?!" Clasping her hand, he tried to assure her "I haven't disclosed anything to Dr Singh... I just asked him for a recommendation... for a friend."

She sat silently staring at the now mute TV, with a barge of thoughts that threatened to derail her.

What will those men think of me? Will they pity Nanaji for ending up with a seemingly immoral daughter-in-law? And what if one of them talks behind my back?! Will all his family loathe me? She could already feel the weight of those disdainful looks and murmurs. What if the whispers reach Maa? My mother, stripped off her pride, will never be able to walk with her head held high.

Naina snatched her hand away and announced "I am fine! I am not sick, and I don't need a doctor to tell me that." He spoke cajolingly "No one is saying you are unwell... But what's the harm in talking to a therapist?" "Why do you keep insisting that I need to see a physiatrist? Have you seen me doing anything to indicate that I am not mentally stable?!" She challenged him. His shoulders sagging in defeat, Sameer muttered "No..."

Standing up, she headed to the kitchen muttering "Stop worrying needlessly."

Once again, though a part of him still wasn't convinced that it was the right thing to do, Sameer let it go.

* * *

On New Year's Eve, Sameer and Naina were invited to Mukesh Mamaji's house to usher in the new century with the extended family. While many all over world were worriedly watching the clock, wondering if all the effort and money pumped into the Y2K projects had been enough, there were many who were blissfully unaffected.

The newlyweds were welcomed with some merry teasing by his family. The women present nodded in approval as the new bahu clad in a sanskari saree touched their feet. Soft drinks, pav-bhaji and Rasmalai were enjoyed while everyone flipped through the photos that Sameer had brought along and listened in awe to Naina's description of Egypt.

While Naina happily spent the evening listening to Bindu Bua's recollections of her and Nanaji's childhood, Sameer politely nodded at the elders only half-listening to the banter around him. As much as he tried, he found it hard to relate to the present company. He wished he could have planned a getaway for just the two of them. But there were some important meetings scheduled for the next few days. Every now and then as his mind drifted to memories of the previous year's celebrations with Kabir and his other friends, he thought with nostalgia – Man, that was a fun night...

At the stroke of midnight as everyone shouted out 'Happy New Year!' Sameer had to make do with an awkward half hug from his wife instead of the smooch he would have liked.

But as soon as they entered their home, Naina eagerly pressed her lips to his whispering "Happy 2000 Sameer!" Glancing at his watch, he pouted "You are forty-three minutes late." She replied with haughty tilt of her head "Not at all! In fact, considering you have been mentally in London with Kabir and God-knows-who-else all evening... I think, I am wishing you in advance!" He asked flushing a little "Was it that obvious??" Pulling both his cheeks, she chuckled "I should probably be annoyed... but I just found that so funny!"

Nudging her to the sofa, he shared "I just kept remembering how I was out with them last year to celebrate Kabir's bachelors party. Naina, I can't believe it's already been a year!"

Snuggled against his chest, Naina listened to him speak of many New Year's Eves that he had enjoyed with his friends. Sameer spoke of the times when they had joined the huge crowds that gather along the banks of Thames to watch the fireworks. He also reminisced about the various local traditions he had participated in while working in Asia.

* * *

As much as people excitedly look forward to the start of a new year, the fact remains nothing much really changes in their lives. Come 2nd of January, everyone had to resume the same old routine!

And it was the same for Sameer and Naina, albeit with some subtle changes.

Gradually, when not at work, Sameer seemed inclined to stay in on most days. Though they still occasionally headed out for meals on the weekends, Sameer's enthusiasm for heading to the local cafes waned. He would pull her in his arms and murmur "What's the point is going to any of those crowded places when I can spend more quality time with my wife at home?!"

To start with, his wife didn't mind this phase where she was discovering new shades of her husband and would tease him "If I knew you would stop wooing me as soon as we were married, I wouldn't have agreed to get married for at least another year!"

But then over some time, Naina started feeling a little out of sorts seeing that her husband was more than content sitting at home most evenings. Every now and then when the weather was particularly nice, they would go out for a long drive after work, but then come home for dinner.

Post dinner, he would usually watch some sports channel. Trying to ensure that they were spending time together, Naina would join him. Watching daily soaps became a thing of the past and only sports seemed to feature in her end of day TV routine. Her love for cricket drastically soared. Because at least when that was on, she wasn't forced to watch soccer or golf!

They headed to the movies a couple of times when some good English movies were playing. But Sameer discovered that the movie halls of Ahmedabad weren't really to his liking. The seats were not comfortable enough and the crowd far too unruly!

Hence, he started renting some of his all-time favorites over the weekends that he wanted Naina to watch. The couple of times Naina proposed that they rent some Hindi movies, she found him dozing off. He, of course, pleaded innocence saying three hours of singing and dancing was just not his cup of tea!

One day when she complained "Sameer, we hardly do anything together other than watching TV!", eyes twinkling, he proposed "Let's start giving Champa time off from cooking on Sunday!" Looking unconvinced, Naina protested "What's the point in eating out both the meals? We anyways go out to dinner on Sunday..." He smiled broadly "That's not what I meant. Let's cook together!" Her smile was shaky as she mumbled "Cook?? But I can only make the simple stuff... nothing that can count as a Sunday special." Not seeing a problem with it, he shrugged "That will be half the fun! Experimenting together."

Thus, armed with few cookbooks, began their experiments with food. And as with most experiments, the results turned out to be quite unpredictable too! Only on rare occasions did the end product resemble the picture in the cookbook.

Sameer realized that his wife had not understated her skills in the kitchen. While Naina watched in awe as her husband chucked ingredients into the pots with easy confidence.

Every time he muttered "Just listen to your instincts..." Naina would despondently wonder – God only knows why my instincts resolutely stay on mute when it came to cooking... the only thing they scream loud and clear is stay away from the kitchen!

But slowly Naina discovered that baking was more up her alley. She enjoyed the process of meticulously measuring out the ingredients and then following the recipes to the dot. The precision required in baking did not require any input from her instincts! Yet, every now and then, she tried to stretch her boundaries and fumble her way through seemingly alien territories.

Munni would often watch their antics in the kitchen with glee and happily sample the fruits of their labor. Sameer would try to enlist her help in the prep, and later Naina would clean the mess the little imp invariably created!

On Valentine's Day Sameer gifted Naina with a box of chocolates at the start of the day and then showed up at her workplace in the evening carrying a bunch of roses. But to his surprise, the receptionist informed him that Naina had taken half day off for some urgent family matter.

All the way back he wondered – Why would she have left early without mentioning anything to me? Did she try calling while I was out with the supplier earlier in the day?? Is something wrong with Naniji's health???

But all the worrying proved needless when he was greeted home with a mix of strange aromas. Munni excitedly pulled him to the kitchen where his wife was busy icing a cake with red hearts.

Widely beaming Naina announced "I am making pasta for dinner! You said you are missing Italian, right?" Glancing at the recipe laying open on the table, he grinned back "Wow! Where did you find all the ingredients?" She smiled "Well... I couldn't find them all, but I read in the magazine that we can substitute them with some local ingredients."

That evening Sameer tasted the most un-Italian tasting pasta of his life! And yet, when she asked with an expectant look "Is it alright?" he replied without missing a beat "It's awesome!"

Thankfully, the praised that he later showered on chocolate cake was truly well-deserved.

* * *

One day in March, as Naina brought out some coffee for them, she shared "Champa mentioned that they will be enrolling Munni at the school nearby. The admission process has started for the coming academic year."

When Sameer responded "That's good. She should start interacting with kids her age." she spoke her face scrunched thoughtfully "Yes... but I don't like the idea of her going to the municipality school. I know you went to a state school in London, but the state schools here are not like the one's there. Munni is bright. She is so quick to learn anything that we teach her! I think we should enroll her in an English medium school."

Pleased with his wife's recommendation, the topic was raised with the girl's parents the next day. Unsurprisingly, Ramdhari and Champa were overwhelmed by the proposition. Champa with her very rudimentary education from the village school was anyway not equipped to assist with her daughter's studies. But English medium was far beyond Ramdhari too, who so far had been pleased to announce that he was 12th pass.

But Ramdhari held the Maheshwari family in very high esteem and could not object to the idea when both his Bhaiya and Bhabhi were partial to it. Naina assured him that she would oversee Munni's education. And hence, Munni was enrolled into the new English medium school started by the trust that Jaiprakash Maheshwari had been a part of.

Deeply committed to the cause of ensuring that Munni wouldn't struggle to keep up with her classmates, Naina started teaching her every evening. Sameer would often gaze at the duo bent over a slate and chalk, revising numbers and alphabet. He found his wife's dedication to everything she set her heart on very heart-warming. His respect for her grew deeper.

The day Munni reached the milestone of recognizing all the letters of the alphabet, Sameer and Naina took her to the new ice-cream parlor that had opened in their locality and treated her to unlimited ice-cream!

* * *

One thing that left Naina more than a little perplexed was his lack of enthusiasm to socialize with his relatives a great deal. Whenever she suggested that they have them over or go visiting them, Sameer would shrug his shoulders and mutter something on the lines of – They are alright... but our wavelengths don't really match.

All the shopping done before the wedding in anticipation of the parties and dinners what would follow had started seeming futile!

Hence, it was a pleasant surprise when he accepted an invitation to a gathering being organized by his cousin. Naina hoped that the evening would change his opinion, but it didn't end quite as wished for!

Mehul and his wife Avni had invited about seven-eight families, mostly his friends and some colleagues. It seemed with not much else to do in the town, this was one of their favorite pastimes! After warmly welcoming them, the hosts had introduced Sameer and Naina to the other guests and then left to mingle around. The expected fanfare of conversation amid abundant food, drinks and music had followed.

But after returning from the party, Sameer abruptly remarked as he changed "Next time Mehul or Avni invite us for something just say we are busy." Naina, who had enjoyed the evening for the most part, sounded surprised "Why?! It was a lovely get-together."

Sameer glanced at his wife who was wrapped in a vibrant magenta silk saree paired with a plunging back blouse. Her open hair was pulled to the front over one shoulder. She was wearing golden dangly earnings and a choker that matched the vibes of the saree.

Recalling the attention few of Mehul's friends had showered on her all evening, he sulked internally – Of course, it was lovely for her! Did she really not notice how those guys were busy checking her out all evening on the pretext of gathering information for their next family holiday?! Man, those buggers were persistent... even me standing there with my arm around her did not deter the jerks!

He replied scowling "In that case, please feel free to carry on. Just don't drag me into it!" She asked uncertainly "How can I attend alone if they invite us??" Trying to appear nonchalant, he shrugged "Just tell them I am busy."

She huffed "I don't get it...They were all so friendly!" Sameer retorted "Far too friendly if you ask me! In fact, I think that Raj and Anup barely left your side all evening. The other three guys would have also probably liked to follow suit, but unfortunately their wives were around!"

As she removed her earrings, Naina tried to soothe his ruffled feathers "Aare baba... they just wanted my suggestions for their summer holidays."

He scoffed "Well, maybe you should learn a thing or two from your Guptaji and handout your office cards when people want information about tours!" She scowled at his words "What are you getting so annoyed about? They are Mehul bhai's friends... I was just being civil. You were part of the conversation too... standing next to me"

He was irked "Part of the conversation? Really??! What was I supposed to contribute to the conversation when I have barely travelled in India?! And anyways they were speaking to you in Hindi all the time! Even after I made it clear that I find it hard to converse in Hindi."

She muttered "Well... this is India..." As he headed to the bathroom, he responded with an edge to his voice "Like I could possibly forget that!"

Feeling very annoyed at his attitude, Naina carelessly pulled away the saree and dumped it on one of the chairs. What has gotten into him today? This isn't the first time he has been surrounded by people conversing in Hindi!

Lost in her grumpy thoughts she pulled out a nightie from the closet. Then suddenly realizing it was the red satin that he was rather fond of, she almost put it back thinking – Naina, there is no need to reward his grumpiness! But then resolutely changed into it making up her mind – Yes, but withholding rewards can be a good teaching technique too!

As soon as Sameer saw his wife in the enticing satin and lace combo, he rolled his eyes – So, now she wants to apologize without actually saying sorry! Mrs. Maheshwari, looks like you don't really know your husband all that well. I can definitely resist the pull of some sexy lingerie! Noticing her barely clad perky breasts, he groaned internally, Shit man... she isn't even wearing a bra!

Disgruntled by her apparent choice to play it dirty, he rebuked her as he got into bed "Please make sure you put away the saree before you go to bed. Even with such a big closet... half the time your clothes are lying around!" Naina bristled at the accusation "Don't worry, I will put it away too. Just after I have put away your socks for a wash! And yes, there is a special bucket in the bathroom for that, in case you have forgotten."

He wordlessly jumped out of the bed, picked the socks from near the dresser and tossed them in the bathroom. Then casting a pointed look at her saree in the chair he got into the bed again and started flipping through a magazine.

For the next few minutes, Naina silently and slowly folded the saree and put away all her jewellery and other accessories, very aware of his hooded eyes on her.

Slipping into the bed, she immediately turned off the lamp to her side. But silently controlling the indignant unrest in her heart was no longer one of her virtues! As she fluffed her pillow, she spoke "And don't expect me to lie to Mehul bhai or anyone! Next time someone calls up, I will tell them to speak to you directly."

When he didn't respond right away, she mocked "When that Anup said to you 'you are a lucky man!', you should have told him how you are not really lucky since your wife is so messy that she sometimes leaves a saree out on a chair till the next morning!"

He almost laughed out thinking - What that guy really meant was he envious of the fact that I will be getting lucky with you tonight! Not that it's going to happen now...

He grunted "That was by no means a compliment to me! It was just another way of flirting with you." She must have recognized that there was some truth to his statement because, colouring a little, she fumbled with her words "Flirt with me... why would he do that? That too in front of you... my husband. You are just reading too much into nothing."

When he just snorted in reply, she tried to turn the tables "And what about all those women flocking around you? You didn't have a problem with their – Sameer you really must come over for dinner... I am sure you will love this new Italian recipe I have learnt! Or Sameer, you have such a great sense of humour! You must absolutely join us on the next weekend getaway!"

Switched off his lamp too, as he lay down turning his back to her, he muttered "I have no inclination to take them up on those offers!"

Naina lay in the dark not able to decide what she should feel about this.

A part of her was pleased to see that he was affected when some random guys paid her so much attention. After all, had she not dealt with the same insecurities at the mention of all the Is in his life? In fact, those were in no way comparable to what he must have felt over a course of just one evening!

Considering they didn't socialize a lot anyways; she had been excited for the evening. Wanting to fit in his circle of family and friends, she had made a special effort to use her limited skills in applying makeup and trying to appear chic. And she had been pleased with the results! Everyone had looked at her with interest and many compliments had followed. She had been filled with a euphoria that she could stand next to him, amongst society that she had never been a part of, and not feel or at least appear like an outsider.

And yet another part of her was consumed with feelings of unease.

Though slightly exaggerated, his accusation that Anup and Raj had spent the evening by her side, hadn't been really off the mark. She persuaded herself that their attention had been harmless enough, but she did feel some guilt for not doing much to discourage it either.

To begin with she had lingered with the women, discussing the usual topics related to the latest style trends, shopping and exchange od recipes. Though Naina didn't have much to contribute to the conversation, she had been happy enough to listen in.

But then someone had started discussing the complications her sister-in-law was facing with her pregnancy. And then almost everyone had someone else's horror story to share. After stoically sitting through that conversation for some time, making some excuse, Naina had made her way across the room to her husband. The talks on that side, focused on politics and sports, had felt safe. Or maybe it was just that his casually slung arm around her shoulder had helped her feel calmer. And then, on learning about her profession, few of the guys had stirred the conversation in the direction of travel and holiday planning.

The former disquiet returned now, as Naina pondered on how things had changed over the past year. That night in Dasi Mahal while sitting in that rose garden, Deepika has confessed that she worried about the future and if she might face any complications again. At that point Naina had never really dwelt on that eventuality. But over the last few months, the 'what ifs' had slowly started bearing down on her.

Few weeks back, they had celebrated their first Valentine's Day together. After all the lovely surprises they had both sprung on each other throughout the day, Naina had been in a happy bubble. That night, as Sameer had reached for the box of condoms, she had spontaneously voiced "Maybe we can stop using them..." He had stilled for the longest moment and then muttered back "What's the rush? All in good time Sweetheart..."

Considering that they had been married for just over four months, Naina didn't want to push him on parenthood journey, but she now empathized with Deepika's dilemmas.

Minutes slipped by but the tension in the room did not ebb.

Sameer's ears perked. Is she sniffling?? After listening intently for another ten seconds, turning around he scuttled closer to her "Naina, stop crying... I have come here for you! I don't see why I should be forced to mingle with people that I just find irritating! Why are you taking this personally?"

Momentarily forgetting her own trepidations, Naina silently pondered on his words.

When Sameer asked again "What are you so upset about?" choosing not to share her angst, she asked instead, "Do you really find me so messy?" Surprised that she had taken his censure to heart, he apologized "Sorry sweetheart... I didn't mean that. I was just annoyed..." After a small pause, he asked "You alright?" Kissing his arm in reply, she nodded "I am okay... Goodnight."

* * *

Over the next few weeks, Naina repeatedly pondered on his words from that night.

During the second week of May, she headed to stay at her mother's place for a few days as Sameer was away on a business trip. Though she had been visiting Khed frequently accompanied by her husband, the women in her house were very pleased to have her all to themselves for some time.

Rama got busy cooking all her favourites, while Malati insisted on oiling her hair. And of course, the three women chattered all the time!

Couple of days into her stay, one-night Naina and Rama were watching TV after Malati had gone to bed. Knowing that Naina had stopped watching the soaps as Sameer didn't watch them, Rama updated her on the progress of the one that was playing. Lost is thoughts, Naina only half listened.

"Maa, he isn't happy..." Naina's voice was just a mere whisper. Squinting at the screen, Rama muttered distractedly "How can he be happy? His whole family misunderstands him... Wait till they find out the truth!"

Naina spoke a little louder "Maa I am talking about Sameer. He isn't happy." Startled, Rama turned down the volume "What happened? Did you have a fight over something?" Barely giving Naina any time to answer Rama continued "Was he upset when he went on the trip? Beta, sometimes husband and wife argue. It's okay, he will calm down by the time he comes back."

Shaking her head, Naina responded "We haven't fought. And he hasn't gone away unhappy because of a disagreement. Maa, he's just not happy here..."

Glancing around uncertainly her mother asked "Here?? Does he not like you visiting us? But he always seems so happy when he comes-" Naina but her off "Maa he doesn't have a problem with our home! I mean, about India... living here."

Looking relieved, Rama patted her daughter's hand "You scared me! Of course, he must be keen to go back to London. Don't worry... it's just a matter of time. The factory setup is coming along well, right? Sameer was telling me the other day that he is quite pleased with the two new hires. Once he is satisfied with the operations, you can go to London." The older woman wistfully gazed at Naina "Amma and I will miss you very much... but that's inevitable."

"I have told him I can't move to London..." Naina's voice trembled. Her mother was surprised "Can't move to London? Why?!"

Then remembering what Naina had shared with her couple of months back about Sanjana's strange behaviour, Rama tried to guess "Is it because Sanjana is still upset about Sameer not marrying her cousin? Naina, you can't give her so much importance! And there is no need to silently endure her taunts. Else, she will start considering your silence as a sign of her strength." Taking only a small pause, she confessed "Beta, at the beginning, I was worried about how Vishakhaji would treat you. But she and Dipika have welcomed you with open hearts. That is more than enough! Don't pay heed to others."

Naina tried to explain "Maa, it's not about Sanjana... how can I leave you and Nani?"

Appearing rather confused, Rama mumbled "Beta, that's his home... every girl has to move to her in-laws or husband's house after marriage. I understand that it's hard to leave the familiar childhood life behind, but you married him knowing he lives there. How can you suddenly refuse to move now?!"

Naina tried to reason "It's not sudden Maa...I had told him about it before marriage. He understands I have responsibilities-" "What responsibilities?!" her mother interjected. She glanced around "This home Maa..."

"This is not your responsibility! I am still capable." Rama uttered a little sharply. Naina implored "Maa, I am aware of our meagre bank balance after Nani's surgery and my wedding. I know you are capable... but I cannot stand by and watch you counting every paisa."

Tenderly clasping her daughter's hand, Rama spoke in a softer tone "Naina, it gives me so much joy to see that you haven't forgotten your maika in the glamour of your sasural... Beta, but now your responsibilities are to that home and Sameer too. You are already transferring most of your monthly salary into my account! I agreed to that because Sameer insisted so much. But I cannot let you make any other sacrifices and jeopardize your relationship with your husband for Amma and me."

Naina muttered "But Maa... I will have to leave my job if I decide to move to London." Missing the point that the young woman was struggling to get across, Rama replied "So what? Take a break for some time... concentrate on your family... kids. I won't advise you to not take another job later... I know it's important that one is always prepared for a rainy day. But leaving one job is not the end of your working life!"

Sounding worried, Naina shared her dilemma "You are not understanding... if I stop working... how can I help you with the finances?" As understanding dawned, Rama stayed silent for a bit. Naina spoke again "Do you understand why I am averse to the idea of moving to London??"

Putting on what she hoped was a reassuring smile, Rama responded "Don't worry... we will manage. I haven't used much of your salary for the past six months. And what big expenses do two old women have?! Nothing will give us more joy than seeing you happy in your marriage. I can't tell you how blessed I felt when Sameer was planning that surprise honeymoon!"

"Maa, you don't get it... Knowing that I am leaving you alone to deal with everything, how am I supposed to enjoy all those luxurious? Just the thought fills me with so much guilt..." taking a small pause, she continued "But, seeing him like this is also difficult. I try Maa... but I know I can't be his everything. At least not always. He misses his friends and family."

Pulling Naina closer, Rama kissed her forehead lovingly. Her voice was heavy with emotions when she spoke again "When did my little baby grow up so much?! Beta, do you think your Nani or I could bear the thought of being the ones to hold you back from living a fruitful life? Go live your life happily!"

Hugging her mother, Naina whispered "Only if you promise me that you will not hide any problems from me. Promise me that you will not let the distance create a chasm between us."

Rama sounded surprised "Why are you thinking like this? You will always be the light of my life! Beta, remember one thing, doesn't matter how far away a daughter goes, she always stays in her parent's heart and carries them in hers. God has blessed us women with very big hearts... we never have to leave behind old relationships to make space for the new ones."

"Promise me, that you will immediately tell me if there are any troubles! And even if I don't start working there soon, you will let Sameer and me help you." Naina entreated her mother.

For the longest moment, Rama wrestled with her pride. All these years I have never sought help from anyone outside this house. Letting Naina help is one thing... but accepting money from Sameer?? And yet, she understood that in that moment she held the key to her daughter's future. Caressing Naina's cheek, she replied softly "I promise."

Seeing the instant relief in the younger woman's eyes, she added "But, you have to promise me that you won't worry about us unnecessarily!" Nodding silently as her eyes glistened, Naina hugged her mother tightly.

* * *

For the next few days, Naina eagerly waited for Sameer's return from the trip. The talk that night with her mother and some more conversations following it, had helped ease many of her anxieties. Her head buzzed with the implications of the changes she would be committing to, but her heart was only filled with serenity at the thought of giving him what he needed.

At first, she planned to share her decision as soon as he came back, but then decided on postponing it for a couple of days.

When Sameer returned, he noticed a new sparkle in her eyes. The small smile that seemed to be lingering at the corners of her lips all the time, was quick to bloom. Despite repeated probing, he couldn't ascertain the reason for this change.

Couple of days after his return, when they woke up one morning, pulling out a small box from his side table, he handed to her "Happy six-month anniversary Sweetheart!" Both, his wishes and the gift which turned out to be a trendy watch, were received with slight surprise from her "You remembered! I didn't think you would remember the date..."

Nuzzling her cheek with his nose, he smiled "I am learning..." She sighed contentedly "I love you Sameer! More than I can ever tell you..." And then she added quickly "And don't ask me to show it!"

When she tried to wriggle out of his embrace, he complained "At least lie down for a bit longer..." She whispered, "I have something for you too." Grabbing a big envelope from the back of her closet, she handed it to him "Happy six-month anniversary to you too!" Pulling out a big card, Sameer gazed at it for a bit and spoke sounding amused "This is the biggest card I have ever received!" She muttered impatiently "Open it! The gift is inside."

A couple sheets of paper slipped out as he opened the card. Looking baffled he tried to make sense of the contents "Tourist Visa application forms for UK??" She beamed "I know it isn't the right type. But those were the only ones I could quickly get my hands on! We will find the right ones before filling and applying. This is just for the dramatic effect!"

Not wanting to rush to any conclusions, Sameer muttered timidly "What are you saying??" Suddenly feeling a little nervous, she replied "I am ready for the move Sameer. Whenever your work here is done... we can go to London."

His heartbeats accelerated hearing her words. Still feeling uncertain, he asked "Really?? But how? What about Maa and Naniji??" Leaning into him, she replied "I want to do this for you... for us. I can't bear to see you so disconnected from everyone around you. I have already spoken to Maa. And she thinks this is the right thing too."

They sat engulfed in each other's embrace as Naina shared her thoughts of the past few weeks and how talking to her mother had helped her make her decision. Sameer's heart soared at the thought of being able to live the life he had envisioned for them! He assured her that they would always support Maa and Naniji in every way required.

When he finally headed to the bathroom to freshen up for the day, with a spring in his step, she watched him intently. His joy on learning of her decision wasn't unexpected, and yet the eagerness with which he had welcomed it left her slightly surprised. Has he been feeling so trapped?! A sense of profound relief filled her heart realizing that she had chosen the path he needed her to walk with him.

The first six months of their marriage had seemed to fly by but had left them both feeling more grounded together. And now, they eagerly looked forward to a new chapter of their life!

* * *

(Hi Everyone,

I received a lot of requests from the readers to not rush to the end without giving a glimpse into their married life. I hope this chapter has been satisfactory in that regard.

Let me know what you think of it 😊

Hope you all are keeping well. Take care and stay safe.

Lots of love, May)