Bound by Vows novel Chapter 5

Payal’s POV

It's been a week since that emotional day. Luckily, maa did not discuss anything about marriage topic luckily.

College is going on monotonous with all rubbish acts of boys. Sana said sorry many times but I told her it was not her fault.

I am now sitting on the sofa having my dinner with amu & ma.

"Payu, today Mrs. Singh called me to inform that those people liked your photo very much and now want to meet us for further discussion" ma informed.

"What??? You gave my photograph to them without informing me…"I asked with a shocked expression.

I didn't expected ma to move forward this fast.

"I don't need your permission. And if you don't want me to interfere in your matters then say it clearly. I will right away deny them" ma said in an angry tone.

"You are mistaken me ma. I am saying it’s too fast. And I am not ready to move on" i said while tearing up.

"Till when, you will live in your past" she asked me.

"I don't know but I am not interested in marriage right now" I declared.

"Stop right here, I have heard this thing a lot, now i will not listen to you. And I have already agreed to the proposal. They are coming tomorrow to see you. So, come home early before 3" She announced.

I looked towards amu for help. She shrugged her shoulders but did try to interfere.

"Mama, but di doesn't want t-..." Amu said.

"Shut up, don’t interfere while we elders are talking & till when she'll live in past. She have to move forward" she scold her.

Amu rolled her eyes.

"Okay fine. I will come early. But I will only agree if he would be ready to accept me with my past" i announced as she will not leave this topic until i said yes.

Ma looked through narrowed eyes but eventually agreed.

"And you amu, take leave for tomorrow and help me with the preparations" ma informed amu

"But mama I have my practical from next week and I have to attend college" amu said

"Nothing will change if u won’t go for one day " ma scold her.

I chuckled while covering my mouth while amu showed her tongue to me. She is very childish.

Amu make faces but eventually agreed.

Don't know why but I have a feeling tomorrow will be a hard day for me.

Next Day

I am standing in front of my mirror while adjusting my dupatta. I am wearing a simple pink suit. Guests have arrived some time ago. Ma will call me anytime.

"Di, let’s go...ma is calling" amu said while entering the room.

We reached the living room while I kept my gaze on floor.

"See, Payal came" ma announced.

I lifted my gaze only to see an old lady around 60 years old.

I folded my hands to say namaste.

She acknowledged with a smile. Next was an old man & I did the same with him.

Then, there was a guy sitting wearing a blue denim with white shirt. He gave me a small smile when our gaze met.

I lowered my eyes instantly. Then aunty called me to sit beside her.

I sat with her. She started asking questions.

"How are you doing?" she asked politely.

"I am doing good" i answered.

"I have heard that you are a professor in college. Which college" she enquired again

"SRCC College of Commerce" I told her.

"Okay, Can you cook"? She again asked

She needs a bride or a maid for her home. I thought while mentally rolling my eyes. Before I could answer, ma intervened.

"Veena ji, Payal cooks very tasty food. She even did a course in her vacations" ma told her in excitement.