"That is such a big favor, Abhishek. I can't take it."

"Well, that brings us to why we are here today. You remember when Heer was born; you promised she would be our daughter-in-law. Well, we—me and Raina—are here to ask for Heer’s hand in marriage for our son, Ayaan.

“What!!!!” Ayaan and Heer said at the same time.

“Dad, you know I don’t want to marry right now,” Ayaan stated.

“Ayaan, you are 32 years old and settled. I don’t know why you are marrying Heer. Now the decision is on Heer whether she says yes or no.”

“U-uhh I-don-“ Heer stutters.

"It's alright, beta. You can take your time and tell us when you are ready," Reena said in an assuring manner.

“Well, we should leave. It's getting late. See you soon, beta,” Abhishek got up.

“Sure, I’ll drop you till the door,” Anand said, getting up.

Author’s POV:

As soon as the Shekhawats left, it was quiet in the lounge. Anand came back inside and sat down beside Heer.

“Dad, I'm not marrying him,” Heer muttered slowly after gathering her courage.

“Why aren’t you marrying him? He is rich, settled, good-looking. What is it that he doesn’t have?”

Raina said, more like she was trying to manipulate the confused father who was torn between saving the company and worrying about his daughter.

“He is going to keep you happy,” Raina added.

“But I want to continue my education. You know, Maa, I have dreams of my own. I can't get married right now,” Heer said.

“Who said you can't continue your education after marriage? You can do whatever you want. It’s the 21st century,” Anand said.

“Beta, I—I think your Maa is right. You should marry him. It’s not for the company, Heer. I’ve known Ayaan since he was a kid. He’s a good boy. You are 22; you will have to marry someday. Marrying into a family I know and trust is better.”

“Yes, and good proposals like these don’t always come. Do you know how many families are dying to join their daughters to the Shekhawats?” Raina kept on adding.

“Okay, that’s it for now. Heer, you can go and sleep. We can talk tomorrow,” Anand said, looking at Heer’s tired state.

While Heer was on her way to her room, she was dragged by her elbow into a corner by none other than Raina.

“Stop showing this attitude, girl. You are getting married into a good household. You should be grateful for that. Your father has gone through so much struggle for an ungrateful brat like you. The least you could do is save his company,” saying this, Raina turned around, smirking, knowing her words had an effect on Heer.

Raina has always been a self-centered woman and never liked Heer due to her beauty and facial features, which were similar to her dead mom. She felt threatened and less valued in front of Anand as he would always give his time and love to Heer. By getting her into this marriage, not only would she get rid of Heer, but she would also have a name of being connected with Shekhawats.

Heer’s POV

I entered my room and lay on the bed. I was silent. I had always respected my elders and never talked back, no matter what. My father had sacrificed a lot for me. After the death of my mother, my father was the one who acted as a mother and father for me. He was always there when I needed him. Now, when he needs me, I should not back out. Maa is right. I am an ungrateful brat. Then it's decided. I'm will marry Ayaan Shekhawat.

Next morning [during breakfast]

“Dad, here is your tea,” Heer said, pouring him a cup, settling down.

“You didn’t make the paratha,” Raina spat.

“RANIA,” Anand warned, causing her to look away in anger.

“Sorry, Maa. I was getting late. I'll make it tomorrow, I promise,” Heer said, looking down. 

Heer took a deep breath and gathered her courage. 

“Dad?”

“Hmm, beta,” Anand said, looking at her.

“I'M READY TO MARRY AYAAN SHEKHAWAT,” she declared, not knowing that this one decision would turn her life around 360 degrees.