As Mehendi walked away, her eyes lingered on Vansh for a moment longer than she intended. It wasn't much—just a glance—but it was enough for Karan to scoff internally. So she's just like the rest of them, he thought bitterly. Girls always flocked to Vansh, their gazes filled with admiration. He shook his head, turning away. I should've known better.
But Mehendi was lost in her own thoughts, far from whatever Karan assumed about her. She knew her dreams wouldn't come true overnight. I have to take slower steps to reach my goal, she reminded herself.
As she stood in front of the house, a sense of nostalgia washed over her. The small yet warm home, the faint scent of marigolds drifting from the garden, the gentle rustling of leaves—it all felt like an embrace from her past.
Pushing open the gate, she stepped onto the soft grass, her heart brimming with excitement. The sight of her grandmother, watering the plants with a serene expression, filled her with warmth. She tiptoed forward and then, without warning, shouted,
"Grandma!"
Her voice was filled with joy as she ran forward, grabbing the old woman's hands before pulling her into a tight embrace.
"Oh, Granny, I'm so happy!"
Her grandmother chuckled, patting her back. "Okay, okay, let me breathe, child! You're hugging me too tight."
Mehendi pulled away with an apologetic grin. "Oh! Sorry, Granny! Sorry, sorry, sorry!" she repeated dramatically, making the older woman laugh.
They settled on the porch, and Granny took her usual chair, observing Mehendi with wise, affectionate eyes. "Now tell me, what happened?"
Mehendi inhaled deeply, her chest rising with excitement before she announced, "I got selected as a singer, Granny!"
A proud smile spread across her grandmother's face. "This is wonderful news, child!" She opened her arms, welcoming Mehendi into another hug. "If you are happy, we are happy for your happiness. What matters is that you must be happy in every second of your life." She patted her granddaughter's head with deep affection.
Mehendi savored the warmth of the embrace before pulling away. "Is Mom not home?"
"As usual," Granny sighed. "She's out for work."
"Well then," Mehendi said cheerfully, "we will celebrate my selection together!"
She reached into her bag, pulling out a small box. "And look! I brought your favorite sweet!"
Granny's eyes lit up. "Where? Give it to me!"
Mehendi smirked. "You can have it, but just one piece."
Granny pouted playfully but accepted the offer. "Tonight, you will stay here, won't you?"
"Of course, Granny!"
"Then let me cook your favorite food," Granny said, getting up.
"I'll help!" Mehendi insisted, following her into the kitchen.
Later that night, as she lay on her bed, exhaustion from the day settled in. She reached for the small framed photograph on her bedside table. And stared back at her, kind yet firm.
"I promise," she whispered, running her fingers over the frame, "what you couldn't do, I will do."
She set the picture down, turned off the light, and drifted into sleep.
The next morning, the aroma of something sweet filled the air.
"Good morning, Granny!" Mehendi called out, stretching her arms as she entered the kitchen.
Granny placed a plate in front of her. "Carrot halwa, your favorite!"
Mehendi's eyes sparkled. "Wow! You are the best, Granny!"
"Take some for your friends," Granny added, packing some in a small box.
"Thank you, Granny!" Mehendi kissed her cheek and hurried to get ready.