ABHIMANYU PERSPECTIVE:

The moment Mom asked for her opinion, I saw a flicker of emotions in Aarushi's eyes – a kaleidoscope of confusion, fear, and perhaps even resignation. But before she could utter a word, aunty cut in, declaring Aarushi was ready for this marriage. Aunty. The word tasted bitter. After witnessing her treatment of Aarushi, any lingering respect I had for her had instantly curdled into something akin to hate. I'd initially dismissed the rumors about her, hoping they were exaggerated, but if this was her true nature, I didn't care who she was. I wouldn't let her get away with it. I didn't know the full extent of their dynamic, so I held my tongue then, but that didn't mean she could disrespect the woman I cared for, not in front of me.