13 Too Shy

Arnav came behind Sofya, he was still ashen faced from puking, but looked his usual composed self, radiating an aura of dominance.

Advay trailed along, afraid he might get sick again.

Mr. Raizada & Arnav's eyes met. There was no warmth in either of their eyes, only a mere cold acknowledgement. It was as if.. they were enemies.

For some reason, Sofya looked up at him, trying to read his face. He looked.. exhausted and pale. Maybe he wasn't feeling well? She noticed how Advay kept shooting his older brother anxious glances, as if he might faint anytime. So he was really not well? It wasn't just an act?

" Umm.. Uncle, I think Arnav is not feeling too well. Maybe he should take a rest? Return home early? "

She suggested softly, not trying to overdo anything, especially her role as a future daughter-in-law.

Both Arnav & Advay stared at her. How did she know? Do I look that bad? Arnav ran his hand through his hairs in frustration. He was not an easy person to read. Then how did she manage it?

" That's right! " Advay chimed in, holding on to the opportunity thrown by Sofya, lest dad rejected.

" I was going to take him to the hospital but he refused. "

Mr. Raizada's eyes first fell on Sofya, then Advay & finally on Arnav. Arnav did not look at him, but was staring at Sofya. He was not going to beg this man to let him go, no matter however his condition be. He was not going to show even a hint of weakness in front of him.

It was as Mr. Raizada had said many years ago ' Weakness of attitude becomes Weakness of character. ' He had never once forgotten it. Nor the harsh lessons that came with it.

" Fine Go. "

" Sofya you too go with them. " Grandpa added.

" WHAT? " Both Arnav & Sofya yelled in unison, making a few heads turn. This was too much and unexpected, not to mention unnecessary.

" But Grandpa -- "

" There's no need. Advay will come -- "

" You young people are too shy. You are getting married in a month, aren't you? Better get accustomed to each other! And it's just a hospital, no big deal. " Grandpa replied smilingly, patting Arnav on the shoulder.

Shy? What the heck? She just didn't want to be with him longer than necessary. Now this! Was her luck really that bad?

Arnav was glaring at Sofya, prompting her to speak. If looks could kill, she would have already been thousand feet beneath. She had gotten him into this situation, so she should be able to save him right? But Sofya shook her head, not speaking.