AHEA Chapter 8: Support and Restraint

Chapter 8: Support and Restraint

It was 8 o’clock and Anjili still hadn’t shown up. It was a mutual agreement in the family that they wouldn’t eat dinner until Anjili was back. Akash was about to call her on her phone when she came through the front door.

“I’m sorry I’m late.” She said. “I didn’t realise that so much time had gone past. Have you eaten?”

“We were waiting for you.” Said Naniji coldly.

“I’m really sorry. Just give me 2 seconds to freshen up and I’ll join you.”

Anjili rushed up the stairs and came down 5 minutes later. She joined them at the table and everyone started eating.

After lunch, Anjili tried to sneak away but was stopped by Naniji.

“Anjili, where are you going?” she asked.

“To my room Nani. I’m very tired, it’s been such a long day and I have college tomorrow.”

“We need to talk so sit down.”

“Yes Nani.”

Everyone turned to look at Arnav expectedly. Arnav sighed.

“So Di,” he began, “How was house hunting?”

“I found some great apartments but they were either not in my price range or not good enough.”

“If you need financial aid-”

“No thanks Chote. I really prefer it if you let me do this by myself.”

“Of course Di, I’m behind you a 100%.” He said sincerely.

Anjili was touched. “Thank you Chote. That means a lot.”

“Chote!” yelled Naniji. “What are you doing?”

“Telling Di that I support and respect her decision.”

“What?!” said Nani in outrage.

“Nani, we need to give Di space to grow. If she thinks this is what’s best for her then as a family, we should support her.”

“But-”

“He’s right Dadi.” Said Akash. “I support you Di.”

Anjili was tearing up in happiness. “Thank you so much.”

“I support you too.” Said Payal.

“Me too.” Said Khushi.

Anjili flung herself at them in happiness and held them tight. She hadn’t left this happy or light in a long time.

“No!” screamed Naniji.

“Nani-”

“No! I am still the elder of the house and I forbid you to leave this house until you’re married.”

With that she walked off.