CHAPTER 6: The Shadows Of Truth

The sun streamed through the grand windows of the Malhotra mansion, bathing the living room in a golden glow. Meera sat stiffly on the plush sofa, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. The morning had been nothing short of exhausting, and now she found herself face-to-face with Shalini Malhotra, who had summoned her for a "chat."

Shalini's elegance was both intimidating and mesmerizing. Dressed in a pastel saree with pearls around her neck, she radiated authority without ever raising her voice. Her eyes, however, were sharp, missing nothing.

"Meera," Shalini began, her tone gentle yet probing, "how are you finding everything so far? I know joining a new family can be overwhelming."

"It's... nice," Meera replied hesitantly, forcing a smile. "Everyone has been very welcoming."

Shalini leaned forward slightly, her gaze fixed on Meera. "I'm glad to hear that. But, dear, I can't help but feel there's a certain... nervousness about you."

Meera's breath hitched. Did Shalini suspect something? Or was this just a motherly concern? She quickly lowered her gaze to her hands, willing herself to appear calm.

"I suppose it's just... everything is so new," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It will take me some time to adjust."

Shalini nodded thoughtfully, but the intensity of her gaze didn't waver. "That's understandable. Adjusting takes time. But you must know, Meera, being a Malhotra is more than just a title. It comes with responsibilities, expectations... and trust."

The word "trust" hung in the air like a heavy weight. Meera swallowed hard, her palms beginning to sweat.

"I understand, ma," she said, hoping the term of endearment would soften Shalini's scrutiny.

Shalini smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Good. I know you'll do well. After all, Arjun chose you."

The words sent a pang through Meera's chest. Chose? If only Shalini knew the truth.

Just then, the sound of Arjun's voice drifted into the room. He was speaking on the phone, his tone businesslike and clipped. Moments later, he walked in, his presence commanding as always.

"Ma," he said, acknowledging Shalini with a nod before his eyes flickered to Meera. "I need to borrow her for a moment."

Shalini raised an eyebrow but didn't object. "Of course. But don't keep her too long. We have guests arriving for lunch."

Arjun gestured for Meera to follow him. She rose quickly, eager to escape the conversation with Shalini. As they walked down the hallway, Arjun's pace was brisk, his expression unreadable.

When they reached his study, he closed the door behind them and turned to face her.

"What did she ask you?" he demanded, his voice low but firm.

Meera blinked, startled by his tone. "She just asked how I was adjusting," she replied. "Why?"

Arjun let out a sharp breath, running a hand through his hair. "Because my mother is sharp. She can sense when something's off."

Meera felt a chill run down her spine. "Do you think she suspects?"

"Not yet," Arjun said, his jaw tightening. "But it's only a matter of time if you don't pull yourself together."

His words stung, but she couldn't deny the truth in them. She had been on edge since the moment she stepped into this house, and it was only making things harder.

"I'm trying," she said quietly, her voice tinged with frustration. "This isn't easy for me, you know."

Arjun's expression softened slightly, though his eyes remained guarded. "I know it's not easy. But the only way this works is if we both keep up the act."

Meera nodded, though the weight of his words pressed heavily on her chest.

"I have a meeting to attend," Arjun said, stepping toward the door. "Stay out of sight for a while. The less interaction you have with others right now, the better."

And just like that, he was gone, leaving Meera alone in the study.

She sank into the nearest chair, her hands trembling. How long could she keep this up? How long before someone uncovered the truth?

Her thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Startled, she sat up straight. "Come in," she said hesitantly.

The door opened to reveal Ishani, her expression curious and slightly mischievous.

"Bhabhi," she said, stepping into the room and closing the door behind her. "Are you hiding from the family already?"

Meera forced a laugh, though her heart raced. "Just needed a moment to myself," she said.

Ishani tilted her head, studying her. "You're an interesting one, you know that? There's something about you that's... different."

Meera's smile faltered. "Different? How so?"

Ishani shrugged, a playful glint in her eyes. "I can't put my finger on it yet. But don't worry, I'll figure it out."

With that, she turned and left, leaving Meera more unsettled than ever.

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