After Dolly's foster parents, Aruna and Alok Dokhpode left, I learned a few things about her. She had become an orphan at a young age, her parents succumbing to a tragic road accident. Aruna and Alok, moved by compassion, became her foster parents. Initially, Aruna didn't mind her husband taking Dolly under their wings, but things changed when they had their son. Dolly, unfortunately, became an eyesore for Aruna, and she seemed eager to wed her off as soon as possible.
Despite feeling a sense of pity for Dolly's predicament, my maternal family continued to praise her academic achievements. Dolly was not only an accomplished scholar but also a recipient of a scholarship. Just a few days ago, she completed her graduation and is currently gearing up for the GATE examination.
As for me, I gathered the courage to face the situation again. I entered my Mom’s room, where Aarti Mom was sitting on the bed, engrossed in old photo albums. I approached her and sat beside her, peering into the photo albums. Sensing my presence, my Mom spoke, “My child, I know why you came, but believe me, she is a good girl, and I know you don’t have anyone in your life. Trust your mother; you won’t regret it.”
I couldn't shake off my concerns, reminding her of a potential obstacle, “I trust you, but what about Dad’s family? How will you convince them?” My mom's eyes welled up, but she displayed a determined expression, assuring me that she would manage. I found myself unable to utter another word.
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In a hushed voice, I expressed another worry, “Ma, but what about Dolly? Are you not forcing her?” My mom chuckled and replied, “Do you have the concept of arranged marriage as a forced marriage?” I shook my head in disagreement, expressing my concerns, “Ma, I had already said to you I would marry the girl of your choice, but in Dolly's case, I don’t think anybody asked for her consent.”
My mom patted my shoulder and gestured for me to get some rest, reassuring me not to worry—she would handle everything.
Playfully, I nestled in my Mom’s lap, recognizing the universal truth that no matter how far you wander, a sense of peace envelopes you when you are in your mom’s presence. As I drifted into slumber, I began to imagine my life after marriage. In this fanciful reverie, I envisioned a future where we would treat each other sincerely, and gradually, Dolly would develop feelings for me. Thoughts of a family with children emerged, only to be abruptly shattered by a vivid nightmare.
In this dark dream, I found myself standing in front of a courtroom, pleading for custody of our children, navigating the tumultuous waters of divorce. This jarring vision jolted me awake into the encompassing darkness. A sense of terror gripped me, and amid the chaos of my thoughts, I realized that in the tumultuous events of the day, I had forgotten to discuss an important matter. The conversation with the boys needed attention.
In the depth of the night, with my mind still wrestling with the haunting images, I resolved to approach my mom once more. I needed to ask Dolly about the conversation with those boys. Attempting to return to sleep proved elusive; I feared that my dreams might morph into nightmares, and the night stretched before me, unwilling to provide the solace of rest.