7 A peace of Mind

The next day passed without any response from either Sofya or Mr. Raizada. Advay on the other hand, was too excited, so much that he even missed his last two classes at the college to be at the exhibition on time.

Likewise, Susan was also excited. It was the first time that she was about to formally meet her bro-in-law, the great Arnav Singh Raizada in person. She had heard so much about him, his stories of success, glory and passion towards his work. She couldn't be happier for her sister.

" Sis, does he look the same as in newspaper & magazines? " Susan asked her sister, as she was choosing among the various dresses to wear for the night.

Sofya rolled her eyes. Since the day that it had been decided that they were going to marry, it was not a single day that she had not heard the name ' Arnav ' in the household. It was another thing to hear about him in office, but she had thought, at least she would get some peace at home from that headache, alas, her this hope had also been shattered.

" Of course, he would, wouldn't he? They are the one and same person. " Sofya answered through gritted teeth.

" Of course sis, I know that. But did you know? He is the most eligible bachelor in the entire country. Women throw themselves at him, he is every woman's dream. "

' Not mine. ' Sofya thought inwardly.

" Of course, they all are just gold diggers and nothing more, but I am really happy for you. I really hope you do find love in this forced marriage. " Susan continued, not noticing her sister's scrunched face. She then added softly, looking at her sister's face " Mom and Dad would have been very proud."

A lump rose in Sofya's throat. Her eyes welled up with emotions and tears. She felt as if something had shattered inside her. Even though it had been almost 10 years, the memory was as fresh as though it had happened yesterday only. No matter what she did, she was unable to forget it. Sometimes, she would even dream about it and end up shouting out things, her pillow a mess of tears, but nothing could be done. The past was in the past.

" I know." Sofya replied, turning away.