Conditional Love

Mrityunjay looked on as Shivani promised his grandfather and her eyes held his captive. He raised his eyebrows, challenging her silently. She averted her gaze away from him to his grandfather, who was staring at her with a sense of satisfaction. "I do not know under what circumstances you have got married to him. I assume there is some story, because he did not give me any indication that he liked someone. But whatever it is, I am glad he chose you," said Harshvardhan, observing her closely.

"OK, that's enough Dadaji. She will take everything you say seriously," interrupted Mrityunjay, coming over and taking Shivani's hand in his. "I would like some time alone with my wife too," he pronounced, looking at his grandfather.

"Aha... who needs these old bones now?" sighed Harshvardhan, pretending to be hurt. Both the men burst out into laughter at the playacting, as Shivani watched confused.