Rajeshwari enjoyed dancing with Ravi. He was kind and funny, and he made her feel special. He told her that he was studying engineering at a college nearby, and that he liked music and sports. He asked her about her hobbies and interests, and listened to her with attention.
She told him that she liked reading and writing, and that she wanted to be a journalist someday. She also told him that she didn't like dance class, and that she preferred playing cricket and video games.
He smiled and said,
"That's cool. You are very smart and talented. You can be anything you want to be."
She smiled back and said,
"Thank you. You are very nice and supportive. You are different from other boys."
He leaned closer and said,
"Thank you. You are different from other girls."
He kissed her softly on the lips and said,
"You are very welcome."
She felt a surge of emotion and a thrill of excitement. She kissed him back and said,
"Thank you."
They continued to dance and talk, oblivious to the world around them. They felt a connection and a chemistry that they had never felt before.
They were falling in love.
Radha watched them from a distance, with a mixture of joy and worry. She was happy that Rajeshwari had found a boy who liked her, but she was also concerned that Rajeshwari might get too attached to him.
She knew that Ravi was not a suitable match for her daughter. He was from a different caste, a different religion, a different background. He had different values, different goals, different expectations.
She knew that Rajeshwari deserved someone better. Someone who was from their own community, who shared their faith, their culture, their traditions. Someone who would respect their customs, their rituals, their ceremonies.
Someone who would marry her with her consent.
Radha decided to end the ceremony soon, before things got out of hand. She thanked the guests for coming, gave them some gifts and sweets, and asked them to leave.
She then approached Rajeshwari and Ravi, who were still holding hands and smiling.
She cleared her throat and said,"Rajeshwari, it's time to go home. Say goodbye to your friend."
Rajeshwari looked at her mother with surprise and disappointment.
"Mom...can't we stay a little longer? I'm having fun." she said.
Radha shook her head and said,"No, my dear. It's late. We have to go home."
Rajeshwari looked at Ravi with regret and sadness.
"I'm sorry. I have to go." she said.
Ravi nodded and said,"I understand. It was nice meeting you."
He gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
He then took out his phone and said,"Can I have your number? I'd like to see you again."
Rajeshwari smiled and said,"Yes, of course."
She gave him her number and he gave her his.They exchanged one last look and one last smile.They then parted ways.
Rajeshwari followed her mother to the car, feeling happy and hopeful.
Maybe being a woman was something to cherish after all.
To be continued.....
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