episode 16

Picking up his phone, he dialed his mother’s number.

"Hello, Aryan," his mother answered, her voice warm yet professional. As a doctor, she was accustomed to handling calls at odd hours, but hearing from her son always brought her joy.

"Ma," Aryan began, his tone firm as always. "I need to talk to you about something important."

His mother’s voice softened. "Go on, Aryan. What is it?"

"There’s someone I’ve met," Aryan said bluntly, wasting no time. "Her name is Aditi. She’s 18, the youngest daughter of a retired army officer. I’ve decided I want to marry her."

His mother paused, surprised by his directness. Aryan was not one to discuss personal matters lightly. "You’ve decided already? What do you know about her?"

"I’ve observed her at the wedding. She’s respectful, reserved, and comes from a good family. Her father lives on his pension, and while they lead a simple life, they don’t face financial struggles," Aryan explained.

His mother listened carefully. "Aryan, this is a serious decision. Have you spoken to her or her family about it?"

"Not yet," Aryan admitted. "But I want you to meet her. Your perspective matters, and I want this to happen the right way."

His mother smiled at his straightforward approach. "Alright. I’ll come and meet her. But Aryan, marriage is not just about observation. You need to ensure she’s comfortable with you and this decision too."

"I understand, Ma," Aryan replied. "That’s why I need your guidance."

"Fine," his mother said warmly. "Send me the details about her family. I’ll make arrangements to visit and speak to them."

As the call ended, Aryan felt a sense of purpose settle over him. For a man who rarely allowed himself personal indulgences, Aditi had awakened a desire for something beyond his disciplined life.

"Raghav," Aryan said in his usual commanding tone.

"Yes, sir?" Raghav responded, sensing the seriousness in Aryan’s voice.

"I need the number of Aditi’s father," Aryan said plainly.

Raghav blinked in surprise but quickly regained his composure. "May I ask why, sir?"

Aryan’s gaze was steady. "I intend to speak with him regarding Aditi. You know what I mean."

Raghav smiled knowingly, impressed by Aryan’s directness. "Understood, sir. I’ll call my father-in-law and inform him first."

Aryan nodded, his hands behind his back as he waited.

Raghav stepped aside, pulling out his phone. He dialed his father-in-law, Aditi’s uncle, who picked up after a couple of rings.

"Hello, Papa Ji," Raghav greeted respectfully.

"Yes, Raghav? How’s everything going?" his father-in-law asked.

"Everything is fine, Papa Ji," Raghav began, choosing his words carefully. "Actually, there’s something important I need to discuss with you."

"Go on," the older man said, his tone curious.

"You know my boss, Aryan Singh, who attended the wedding?"

"Yes, of course. A fine young man," his father-in-law replied.

"Well," Raghav continued, "he has expressed an interest in Aditi. He’s very serious and wants to speak with her father about it."

There was a moment of silence on the other end before his father-in-law spoke again, his voice measured. "Are you sure about this, Raghav? Aditi is still very young."

"I understand, Papa Ji," Raghav said. "But Aryan sir is not the kind of man who takes such decisions lightly. He’s a well-respected army captain and has admirable intentions. He would like to take things forward properly, with your permission."

His father-in-law sighed thoughtfully. "Alright, give me some time to speak with Avinash . I’ll let you know."

"Thank you, Papa Ji," Raghav said, ending the call. He turned back to Aryan, who had been standing patiently.

"They’ll speak to Aditi’s father and get back to me. I’ll keep you updated, sir," Raghav informed him.

Aryan nodded, his expression unreadable. "Good. Let me know as soon as you hear anything."

As Raghav watched Aryan walk away, he couldn’t help but admire the captain’s determination. It was clear Aryan was a man who always knew what he wanted—and wasn’t afraid to take the necessary steps to get it.

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