14-10-2026, 04:10 PM
The days passed quietly after Vishal's visit to Shaktil's house. Although Shubha had tried to put her past behind her, the unexpected reunion had left several unanswered questions in her heart. She continued to behave affectionately towards Shaktil, hoping that their relationship would grow stronger with time. Shaktil, meanwhile, was busy managing his textile business, and his attention remained divided between his shop and his newly married life.
One evening, Bapu and Mai called the newlyweds into the living room.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Shaktil, you and Shubha have been occupied with family responsibilities and the arrangements following your wedding. I think it is time you both took a short break from your usual routine and spent some quality time together. Marriage is not only about fulfilling responsibilities towards the family; it is also about understanding your partner, discovering each other's interests, and creating memories that will remain precious for years. Why don't you plan a honeymoon trip somewhere beautiful? You can leave the shop in the hands of your trusted employees for a few days. We will manage things here, so you don't need to worry about the business."
Shaktil: "That's a good suggestion, Bapu, and I understand why you want us to travel. However, you know how much attention the shop requires, especially when new stock arrives and customers expect everything to be available. I usually prefer spending my free time quietly rather than travelling to crowded places. Still, Shubha has only recently become part of our family, and I don't want her to feel that her wishes are unimportant to me. If she wants to go somewhere, I'll arrange the trip and make sure she has a comfortable experience."
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Shaktil, a honeymoon is not simply a holiday that you arrange because your parents suggest it. It is an opportunity for you and Shubha to understand each other away from the usual family environment. You may be comfortable spending most of your time at the shop, but she deserves some special memories with you as well. Take her somewhere pleasant, participate in a few activities together, and make an effort to enjoy yourselves. You don't have to spend a fortune or visit an expensive destination. What matters most is the time you give each other."
Shubha listened with a shy smile. She had secretly hoped that Shaktil would suggest a honeymoon himself, and Mai's words made her feel encouraged.
Shubha: "Amma, I would really like to go somewhere with Shaktil. I don't need an expensive holiday or anything extraordinary. I simply want us to spend a few days together without constantly thinking about the shop, household duties, or other responsibilities. We could visit a beautiful hill station or a peaceful resort where we can walk around, enjoy the scenery, and participate in some activities. I believe that when two people spend time together in a new environment, they discover things about each other that they might not notice during their ordinary daily routine."
Shaktil looked at his wife and smiled.
Shaktil: "All right, Shubha. You have convinced me. Let's choose a comfortable resort and spend a few days there. I may not be enthusiastic about crowded games or organised competitions, but I'll try to make the trip enjoyable for you. Tell me what kind of place you prefer, and we can plan the arrangements together. I want you to enjoy our honeymoon rather than spend the entire time wondering whether I am happy to be there."
Shubha's face brightened.
Shubha: "Thank you, Shaktil. I know you have your own preferences, and I don't expect you to become a different person just because we're travelling together. I only hope you'll occasionally join me in the things I enjoy, just as I will try to understand the things that matter to you. We can compromise and discover a balance that suits both of us. Perhaps this trip will give us a wonderful beginning and help us become more comfortable with each other."
Within the next few days, Shaktil arranged a honeymoon package at a beautiful resort near a popular hill station. The hotel was known for its scenic gardens, comfortable rooms, romantic dining arrangements, and special honeymoon activities for newly married couples.
What Shubha did not know was that Vishal had also learned about their destination.
He had never forgotten his promise to respect her marriage. Yet the thought of Shubha spending several days with Shaktil stirred emotions he had been trying desperately to control. When an opportunity arose to attend a business meeting in the same region, he decided to travel there. He told himself that his visit was strictly related to work and that he would maintain a respectful distance from the newlyweds.
However, a small part of him secretly hoped that seeing Shubha again might give him another chance to speak about the feelings he had never completely overcome.
The Honeymoon Begins
The morning of their departure arrived.
Shubha had packed her clothes, toiletries, and a few accessories the previous night. She stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her earrings, while Shaktil checked the travel arrangements on his phone.
Shubha: "Shaktil, have you packed everything you need? I have checked our hotel reservation twice, and I have kept the identification documents safely inside my handbag. I also packed a few comfortable dresses because I thought we might go for evening walks or participate in some of the activities arranged by the resort. I am genuinely excited about this trip. For once, we can leave our usual responsibilities behind and spend some uninterrupted time together. I hope you won't spend the entire journey answering calls from the shop."
Shaktil: "I have packed everything, and I promise to keep my business calls to a minimum. I cannot guarantee that I won't check the shop's messages occasionally, because I have always been particular about my work, but I'll try to give you my attention. We have arranged for the senior employee to handle most of the routine matters. If something urgent happens, I'll deal with it briefly and return to our plans. Now, are you ready? Our cab will arrive shortly, and I don't want us to begin our honeymoon by rushing around the house."
Shubha laughed softly.
Shubha: "I am ready, and I am looking forward to seeing how you behave when there is no shop nearby to distract you. Perhaps I'll discover that my serious husband has a playful side that he has been hiding from everyone. Don't worry; I won't force you to participate in every activity. But if the hotel announces any interesting competitions for couples, I will definitely ask you to join me. You should at least give me a chance to win a prize with my husband standing beside me."
Shaktil: "You are already making plans for competitions before we have even reached the hotel! Let us first arrive safely, have lunch, and settle into our room. I prefer a peaceful holiday, Shubha, and I don't particularly enjoy performing in front of strangers or competing in silly games. However, I know you enjoy such things, so I'll consider participating if the activities are simple enough. Just don't expect me to become an enthusiastic contestant overnight."
Their journey was pleasant, and by afternoon they reached the resort.
The hotel stood amid green hills, with flowering plants lining the entrance and a broad garden extending towards a swimming pool. Couples were arriving from different parts of the country, and the staff welcomed the newlyweds with refreshing drinks and a small decorative arrangement in their room.
Shubha was delighted.
Shubha: "Shaktil, look at this place! The garden is beautiful, and the view from our balcony is even better than I imagined. I can already picture us walking around in the evening and enjoying the cool breeze. The room is lovely, and the staff have made a genuine effort to welcome us. I am glad we chose this resort instead of staying somewhere ordinary. I feel as though we have stepped away from our usual lives for a little while, and I want to make the most of every moment we spend here together."
Shaktil: "The place is certainly beautiful, and I am glad you like it. Let us unpack, freshen up, and have something to eat before exploring the resort. I would also like to check the arrangements for tomorrow, because we may want to visit the nearby viewpoint if the weather is pleasant. You can decide which places you want to see, and we will work out a schedule that doesn't make the trip exhausting. I want us to enjoy ourselves without turning the holiday into another list of responsibilities."
After resting for a while, they went down to the reception area, where a hotel employee announced a special programme for honeymoon couples.
Hotel Coordinator: "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to our honeymoon celebration programme. Tonight, we are introducing a series of five friendly competitions designed especially for newly married couples. The activities will include a partner quiz, a memory challenge, a blindfolded identification game, a teamwork task, and a final couple's challenge. Each competition will award points, and the couples who perform best will receive small prizes and a special dinner voucher. Participation is entirely voluntary, so you are welcome to join whichever activities interest you."
Shubha immediately turned towards Shaktil.
Shubha: "Did you hear that, Shaktil? Five competitions for honeymoon couples! This is exactly the kind of activity I was talking about during our journey. We don't have to win every event, but it would be fun to participate and discover how well we understand each other. Imagine if we won the final prize and received a romantic dinner voucher. It would become one of our first special memories as husband and wife. Please join me, even if you are not particularly interested in competitions."
Shaktil: "Shubha, I knew you would be excited as soon as you heard the announcement. I am not trying to spoil your happiness, but I honestly don't see the attraction of standing before a crowd and answering questions about our private lives. We have come here to relax and enjoy our honeymoon, not to prove to other people how well we know each other. If you genuinely want to participate, I will accompany you, but please don't become disappointed if I don't perform with the same enthusiasm as the other husbands."
Shubha: "I understand that you don't enjoy these things, but I would appreciate it if you made a little effort for me. I am not asking you to entertain the crowd or behave in a way that makes you uncomfortable. Just stand beside me, listen to the instructions, and participate sincerely. Sometimes the value of an activity lies not in winning but in doing something together. I have spent so much time adjusting to a new family and learning your routines that I would love to have a few moments when we can simply be a young couple enjoying ourselves."
Shaktil hesitated before agreeing.
Shaktil: "All right, Shubha. We will participate in the competitions you want to try, but I want you to remember that I am doing this because I care about your happiness, not because I suddenly enjoy public games. I will answer the questions honestly and do my best, although I may not be as energetic as the other contestants. If we win, we will celebrate, and if we lose, we can still enjoy the rest of the evening together. That seems like a fair arrangement, doesn't it?"
Shubha nodded happily.
Neither of them noticed a man standing near the reception desk, watching the proceedings from a distance.
It was Vishal.
He had checked into another room at the same resort earlier that afternoon. When he saw Shubha standing beside Shaktil, wearing a cheerful expression, he felt a sharp ache in his chest.
He forced himself to look away.
Vishal (thinking): "I promised myself that I would respect her marriage, and I must remember that promise even when my emotions become difficult to control. She looks happy to be here with Shaktil, and I should be grateful that she has the opportunity to build a new life. I have no right to expect her to look at me the way she once did. Still, seeing her in a place like this brings back memories of the future we once imagined together. I need to keep my distance and concentrate on the business meeting that brought me here. Whatever happens, I must not become the reason for another person's unhappiness."
The Five Honeymoon Competitions
The first competition was a partner quiz.
Each couple had to answer questions about their spouse's favourite food, preferred holiday destination, daily habits, and personal interests. Shubha answered most of the questions enthusiastically, while Shaktil occasionally hesitated because he had never paid much attention to such details about himself.
Hotel Coordinator: "Our first competition is about how well you know your partner. There are no trick questions, and you should answer according to what you genuinely believe. Remember, the purpose is to learn something about each other, not to argue over who knows more. Sometimes a wrong answer can lead to an interesting conversation, so enjoy the process and don't take the scores too seriously."
When it was Shubha's turn, she answered several questions correctly. Shaktil, however, gave a different answer when asked about her favourite way to spend a holiday.
Shubha: "Shaktil, you should have known that I prefer visiting places where there are interesting things to see and do. I enjoy quiet surroundings too, but I don't want to spend an entire holiday sitting inside a room. I like walking around, trying new activities, and discovering something different. It is not a serious mistake, of course, but I hope you will remember these little things about me as we spend more time together. I want us to learn about each other naturally rather than assume that we already know everything."
Shaktil: "You are right, and I should have paid more attention when you spoke about your interests. I have spent so many years following the same routine that I sometimes forget other people enjoy trying new experiences. I know you are more adventurous than I am, and I will try to remember that. But you must also accept that I may not always understand your preferences immediately. We have only just begun our life together, and there will be plenty of opportunities for us to learn."
Their scores were announced.
Shubha and Shaktil finished in the middle of the group.
The second competition was a memory challenge. Each couple was shown a collection of objects for a short time and then asked to recall as many items as possible.
Shubha concentrated carefully, remembering almost everything. Shaktil was less interested and forgot several objects, but her quick answers helped them secure second place.
Shubha: "We did it, Shaktil! We may not have come first, but at least we worked together and earned a good score. I was nervous when the coordinator removed the objects, but I remembered most of them after taking a deep breath. You also remembered a few things that I had missed, so we managed to help each other. This is what I meant when I said that participating together could be enjoyable. We have already won a small prize, and I am happy that you agreed to join me."
Shaktil: "Congratulations, Shubha. You certainly did most of the work in that competition, and I must admit that your memory is better than mine when it comes to such details. I am happy that you enjoyed it, although I still think I would have been equally content sitting in the garden with a cup of coffee. Nevertheless, we have earned a prize, and I don't want to take away your happiness by complaining. Let us see what the next event involves before deciding whether we should participate again."
The third competition was a blindfolded identification game. One partner had to identify the other by holding their hand briefly, while several contestants stood in a line.
Shaktil appeared uncomfortable with the activity and did not seem interested in practising beforehand. Shubha, however, was determined to do her best.
When her turn came, she carefully examined each contestant's hand and identified Shaktil correctly.
The audience applauded.
Hotel Coordinator: "Excellent! Shubha has identified her husband correctly, and that earns their team another point. It is wonderful to see contestants trusting their instincts and enjoying the game. Let us give every couple a round of applause for participating with such good sportsmanship."
Shubha smiled proudly, but Shaktil merely offered a polite smile before stepping aside.
Shubha: "Shaktil, I got it right! I was afraid I might become confused because everyone was standing so close together, but I recognised your hand. I know it may sound like a small achievement, yet I enjoyed the excitement of trying to identify you correctly. I wish you would celebrate with me a little more enthusiastically. We are on our honeymoon, and I would love to feel that we are sharing these moments rather than simply completing activities because I requested them."
Shaktil: "I am pleased that you got the answer right, and I congratulate you. I am sorry if my reaction seemed disappointing, but I find it difficult to express excitement over every little event in the way you do. That does not mean I am unhappy with you or that I don't want you to enjoy yourself. I simply react differently. Please don't measure my affection by how loudly I cheer at a competition. I hope you will gradually understand my nature just as I am trying to understand yours."
His explanation made sense, but Shubha could not help feeling slightly disappointed.
The fourth competition involved a teamwork task in which couples had to assemble a simple picture puzzle within a time limit.
Shubha encouraged Shaktil to participate properly, but he continued to approach the activity casually. They finished the puzzle too late to qualify for a prize.
Shubha: "I know we are not competing for a fortune, and I don't mind losing when we have genuinely tried. What makes me a little sad is that I keep feeling as though I am the only one who wants to make these activities special. You are physically standing beside me, but sometimes your attention seems to be somewhere else entirely. I don't want you to pretend to enjoy something you dislike, yet I hope you will occasionally make an effort because it matters to me. I want to feel that my happiness is important to you too."
Shaktil: "I understand what you are saying, Shubha, and I am sorry that I have made you feel that way. I am not deliberately ignoring your wishes. I simply don't enjoy these competitions, and when I find myself doing something I dislike, I sometimes lose interest without realising how it affects the person beside me. I should have tried harder to cooperate instead of assuming that my presence alone would be enough. I will keep your words in mind, and perhaps we can choose activities that interest both of us during the rest of our trip."
The fifth and final competition was a couple's challenge involving a series of simple tasks that required coordination and quick decisions.
Shubha approached it with renewed determination. She listened carefully to the instructions, encouraged Shaktil to cooperate, and tried to guide him through each task. Although he participated, his lack of enthusiasm prevented them from completing the challenge quickly enough.
They finished the competition without winning a prize.
When the final scores were announced, Shubha and Shaktil had won two of the five events: the memory challenge and the blindfolded identification game. They received a small souvenir and a certificate recognising their participation.
Shubha accepted the prize with a smile, but disappointment lingered beneath her expression.
Shubha: "I am glad that we won two competitions, and I don't want to sound ungrateful because we did have some enjoyable moments. However, I had imagined that we would encourage each other throughout the evening and perhaps become closer through these activities. I know that you dislike public competitions, and I respect that. But I also want you to understand that I was hoping to see a more playful side of you, even if only for a few minutes. I don't need you to win every game or impress anyone. I simply want to feel that you are happy to share these new experiences with me."
Shaktil: "I am sorry, Shubha. I can see that you expected more enthusiasm from me, and I should not dismiss that feeling just because I personally dislike competitions. I agreed to participate because I wanted you to be happy, but I failed to understand that you wanted us to enjoy the experience together rather than simply stand beside each other. I will try to make more of an effort during the rest of our honeymoon. Let us leave the competition area behind and have dinner somewhere quiet. We can talk properly without an audience, and tomorrow we can choose something we both enjoy."
Shubha nodded, deciding not to let the disappointment spoil the entire evening.
From a distance, Vishal had watched part of the programme. He had noticed the way Shubha encouraged her husband and the quiet disappointment on her face when Shaktil failed to respond enthusiastically.
He knew he should not interfere.
Nevertheless, he found himself wondering whether Shaktil understood how much small gestures of affection could mean to his wife.
An Unexpected Problem at the Resort
Later that evening, Shubha and Shaktil returned to their room after dinner. They were looking forward to resting before exploring the nearby hills the following morning.
However, when they reached the reception area, they discovered that there was a problem with their room reservation.
Reception Manager: "I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience, sir and madam. Our booking system has incorrectly marked your room as available for another reservation, and the incoming guests have already arrived. We are checking the records to understand how this happened. Unfortunately, our other honeymoon rooms are currently occupied, and the only available alternative is a standard room in another wing. We can arrange temporary accommodation there while we investigate the error, but I understand that this is not what you booked or paid for. Please allow us a little time to resolve the matter."
Shubha looked worried.
Shubha: "We made this reservation well in advance, and our booking confirmation clearly mentions the honeymoon room we selected. We have travelled a considerable distance, participated in the hotel's scheduled activities, and returned expecting to rest. I understand that mistakes can happen, but it is upsetting to discover that our room may no longer be available after we have already checked in. Could you please review the reservation carefully and explain what arrangements you can offer? We would prefer not to spend the night moving from one room to another because of an error we did not make."
Shaktil: "I agree with my wife. We have paid for a specific category of room, and we expect the hotel to honour the reservation or provide an equivalent alternative. I don't want to create an argument with your staff, but we need a clear solution tonight rather than a promise that the matter will be investigated tomorrow. Please contact the duty manager and check whether another suitable room can be arranged. If that is impossible, I would like to know what compensation the hotel can offer for the inconvenience."
The receptionist made several calls, but no immediate solution emerged.
Shaktil became increasingly frustrated, while Shubha tried to remain calm.
At that moment, Vishal entered the reception area.
He had been returning from a meeting with a local business associate when he noticed the couple speaking with the manager. Recognising Shubha, he approached them cautiously.
Vishal: "Shaktil, is everything all right? I happened to hear part of the conversation while passing through the lobby, and it sounds as though there has been a problem with your reservation. I don't want to intrude on your private matters, but if the hotel has made an administrative mistake, perhaps I can help you speak to the appropriate person. I have been attending business meetings in this region, and one of the people I met today has professional connections with the hospitality industry. If you would like me to make a call, I can at least help you reach someone who may be able to clarify the situation."
Shubha stared at him in surprise.
Shubha: "Vishal! What are you doing here? I never expected to see you at this resort, especially when we came here for our honeymoon. When you approached us just now, I thought I must have mistaken someone else for you. You told us that you had returned to India, but you never mentioned that you would be travelling to this region. I hope nothing serious has happened with your work. How did you happen to be here at exactly the same time as us?"
For a moment, Vishal hesitated.
He had prepared an explanation in his mind, but hearing Shubha question him so directly made him uncomfortable.
Vishal: "I understand why you are surprised, Shubha, and I admit that the timing is unexpected. I came here because of a business matter that required me to meet an associate in this region. The meeting was arranged before I knew that you and Shaktil would be staying at this resort. I checked into the hotel because it was convenient for my work, and I had no intention of disturbing your honeymoon. I realise that my presence may raise questions, but I want you both to know that I am not here to interfere with your plans."
Shaktil looked surprised but quickly recovered.
Shaktil: "What a coincidence, da! I certainly didn't expect to meet you here. I hope your business meeting went well. Since you know people in the hospitality industry, your offer to help is welcome, because we seem to have reached a dead end with the reservation issue. We are not looking for special treatment, but we do want the hotel to honour the booking we made. If a phone call can help the manager find a proper solution, I would appreciate it."
Vishal spoke briefly with the reception manager and then called his business associate. After explaining the situation, he requested assistance in contacting the hotel's regional administration.
Within a short time, the manager received instructions to review the original booking and arrange a suitable alternative room without additional charges. The hotel also offered a complimentary dinner voucher as an apology for the inconvenience.
Reception Manager: "Thank you for your patience, sir and madam. We have now confirmed that the error occurred during an internal room-allocation update. Your original room has been incorrectly assigned to another reservation, and we accept responsibility for the mistake. We can provide you with an equivalent honeymoon room in the adjoining wing tonight, with the option to move to your originally booked room tomorrow if you prefer. The hotel will also provide a complimentary dinner voucher to compensate for the inconvenience. We sincerely apologise for the disruption to your evening."
Shubha felt relieved, and Shaktil thanked the manager.
Shaktil: "Thank you for resolving the issue. We appreciate your efforts, and I am glad that we can finally return to our room and rest. Vishal, I must thank you as well. We were beginning to wonder whether we would spend the entire evening arguing about a booking error, and your assistance helped us reach a solution without unnecessary conflict. I didn't expect to meet you here, but I am grateful that you happened to be available when we needed help."
Vishal: "There is no need to thank me excessively, da. Anyone would want to help a friend who was facing an unnecessary problem during a holiday. I am glad the manager has arranged a proper solution, and I hope the rest of your honeymoon goes smoothly. You both came here to enjoy some peaceful time together, so I don't want this inconvenience to spoil your plans. Please go and rest. I will also return to my room because I have another business appointment tomorrow morning."
Shaktil smiled and shook his hand.
Shaktil: "All right, da. We will catch up another time. I am glad we met, even though the circumstances were a little inconvenient. Perhaps we can have coffee together if our schedules allow it before you leave. You can tell me more about your work, and I can share what has been happening at the shop. For now, I need to make sure Shubha settles comfortably into the new room. Good night, and thank you again."
Shaktil turned towards the corridor, expecting Shubha to follow him.
However, she remained where she was for a moment, looking at Vishal.
She was still trying to understand how he had appeared at the resort so unexpectedly.
Shubha's Questions and Vishal's Pain
After Shaktil went ahead to collect their room key, Shubha spoke quietly to Vishal.
Shubha: "Vishal, I know you have explained that you came here for work, and I am not accusing you of deliberately following us. However, I cannot deny that your sudden appearance has surprised me. You were at our wedding, you promised to respect my marriage, and now you have appeared at the same resort where Shaktil and I are spending our honeymoon. I don't want to misunderstand you, but I also don't want to find myself in a situation where our past begins affecting my present again. Please tell me honestly whether you knew about our travel plans before coming here."
Vishal looked down for a moment.
Vishal: "Shubha, I understand why you are asking that question, and you deserve an honest answer. I did not arrange my business meeting simply to follow you, and I did not book my room with the intention of disturbing your honeymoon. The meeting was genuine, and I had a legitimate reason to travel here. However, I did learn that you and Shaktil were planning this trip before I arrived. I should have considered how uncomfortable it might make you feel to encounter me unexpectedly, and perhaps I should have chosen accommodation elsewhere. I cannot change the fact that we are here at the same time, but I can assure you that I will respect your boundaries and will not deliberately seek out private moments with you."
Shubha felt a mixture of relief and concern.
His answer had not completely removed her doubts, but she appreciated that he had admitted knowing about their trip.
Shubha: "I appreciate your honesty, Vishal. I don't want to be cruel to you, and I understand that you have been struggling with painful memories since the wedding. But please remember that this trip is important to Shaktil and me, even though we are still learning how to understand each other. I don't want him to become suspicious or feel that I am hiding something from him. If we happen to meet in the public areas of the resort, we can speak politely, but I hope you will not create reasons for us to be alone together. I need to protect the trust that is beginning to grow between my husband and me."
Vishal listened carefully.
Vishal: "I understand, Shubha, and I will not ask you to break the boundaries you have established. I know that you are trying to build a stable marriage, and I have no intention of making that more difficult. Still, I would be lying if I said that seeing you again has not affected me. I thought I had prepared myself to accept your marriage, but some emotions are more difficult to overcome than I expected. I am not telling you this because I want you to change your decision. I simply want to be honest about the struggle I am facing rather than pretend that everything has become easy for me."
Shubha's expression softened.
Shubha: "I never expected you to forget everything overnight, Vishal. We shared an important part of our lives, and I know that memories do not disappear simply because circumstances change. But there is a difference between acknowledging pain and allowing that pain to direct every decision we make. I hope you will give yourself the opportunity to heal without repeatedly returning to the past. You have your own life, your own responsibilities, and the ability to build new relationships when you are ready. I genuinely want you to find happiness, even though I cannot be the person who provides it in the way you once hoped."
Vishal gave a sad smile.
Vishal: "Do you know what hurts the most, Shubha? It isn't simply that you married someone else. I think it is the realisation that the future I imagined with you no longer exists, while the memories of that future remain vivid in my mind. There are moments when I remember the conversations we shared, the promises we made, and the ordinary things we once thought we would do together. Then I see you standing beside Shaktil, beginning the life you deserve, and I understand that those memories belong to a chapter that has already ended. I am trying to accept that truth, but some days it feels as though I am learning it all over again."
Shubha felt a sudden ache in her heart.
She had not forgotten their past either. Although she had chosen to move forward, hearing Vishal speak so openly reminded her of the affection they had once shared.
Shubha: "Vishal, I am sorry that you are hurting so much. I never wanted the memories we shared to become a source of suffering for either of us. There was a time when I also imagined a future that included you, and I cannot pretend that those feelings never existed. But life took us in different directions, and I eventually had to accept that I could not continue waiting for a future that was no longer certain. My marriage to Shaktil is now a responsibility I have chosen to honour, and I need to give him the same sincerity that I would expect from him. Please don't think that moving forward means our past was meaningless. It simply means that our past cannot decide everything about our future."
Vishal's eyes reflected the sadness he had been trying to hide.
Vishal: "I understand what you are saying, and I don't blame you for choosing a new life. I know that you have every right to be happy, and I know that I must not make you feel guilty for decisions you have already made. Perhaps I have been holding on because accepting the end of our relationship also means accepting the mistakes I made and the opportunities I failed to recognise. I sometimes wonder whether I could have acted differently, whether I could have been more patient, or whether I could have understood you better when we were together. Those questions keep returning, even though I know there is no answer that can change what happened."
Shubha lowered her eyes.
His words stirred feelings of compassion that she had not expected to experience so strongly.
Shubha: "It is natural to think about mistakes when a relationship ends, Vishal, but please don't assume that every painful outcome happened because you failed in some way. Relationships involve two people, their circumstances, their expectations, and the choices they make at different stages of life. You can learn from what happened without spending every day blaming yourself. I don't want you to become bitter or lose confidence in your ability to love someone again. You deserve a future that is not defined by regret. I hope you will eventually meet someone who understands you and with whom you can build a new life honestly and peacefully."
Vishal took a deep breath.
Vishal: "I want to believe that such a future is possible, but at the moment I am still trying to understand how to reach it. Seeing you today brought back feelings I thought I had managed to control. When the reservation problem occurred, I genuinely wanted to help you and Shaktil because I did not want your honeymoon to be spoiled. But another part of me was relieved to have a reason to speak with you again. I know that is something I need to examine honestly. I don't want my concern for you to become an excuse for crossing boundaries that you have clearly explained to me."
Shubha looked at him with quiet sympathy.
Shubha: "Thank you for recognising that, Vishal. I believe you can make the right decisions if you continue to be honest with yourself. You don't have to suppress every emotion, and you don't have to pretend that seeing me has no effect on you. But you must remember that feelings do not automatically give us the right to act on them. Sometimes the most difficult thing to do is to care about someone while accepting that their life is no longer connected to ours in the way we once wanted. I hope you will find the strength to do that, because I don't want either of us to look back on this period with regret."
For a few seconds, neither of them spoke.
The sounds of the reception area continued around them, but their conversation seemed to have created a small, separate world of memories and unspoken emotions.
Vishal wanted to reach out to her, to stand closer and feel the familiarity he remembered from their earlier relationship. He took a small step forward, then stopped when he noticed the uncertainty in her expression.
Vishal: "Shubha, sometimes I wish I could speak to you as freely as I once did, without thinking about every sentence or worrying that a simple conversation might cause trouble. I miss the comfort of knowing that I could share my thoughts with you and that you would understand what I meant, even when I struggled to explain myself. I know that we cannot return to that relationship, and I am not asking you to ignore your marriage. But I hope you understand why it is difficult for me to accept that the person who once knew me so well is now someone I must approach with so much caution."
Shubha felt the pull of old familiarity, followed by a stronger awareness of her present responsibilities.
Shubha: "I understand, Vishal. I remember the comfort we once shared, and I cannot deny that speaking to you brings back some of those feelings. But I also know that our circumstances have changed, and we cannot continue behaving as though nothing has happened since we were together. I want you to find peace, and I can listen to you with compassion when we meet naturally, but I cannot become the person you depend on whenever your memories become painful. That would make it difficult for both of us to move forward. I hope you can respect that distinction, even when it is not easy."
Vishal nodded slowly.
Vishal: "I will try, Shubha. I don't want to place the burden of my feelings on you, and I don't want to create a situation in which you must choose between being kind to me and being loyal to your husband. I know that your marriage deserves honesty and trust. I will remember what you have said, and I will make a conscious effort to manage my emotions rather than expect you to reassure me whenever I feel lonely. I hope that one day I can remember our past with gratitude instead of pain."
Shubha's eyes became moist, though she quickly composed herself.
Shubha: "I sincerely hope that day comes for you, Vishal. You were once an important part of my life, and I don't wish you suffering or loneliness. But I also need to return to Shaktil now. He is waiting for me, and I don't want him to wonder why we have been standing here talking for so long. Please take care of yourself, focus on your work, and give yourself time to heal. We cannot rewrite the past, but we can still make choices that prevent it from hurting the people around us."
At that moment, Shaktil returned with the new room key.
Shaktil: "Shubha, the manager has given us the key, and our luggage has already been moved to the new room. Everything is sorted out now, so we can finally relax. Vishal, thank you again for helping us. I am glad we ran into you, although I wish the circumstances had been more pleasant. If you are free tomorrow evening, perhaps we can meet for coffee in the restaurant. I would enjoy catching up with you properly before you return to your work."
Vishal immediately stepped back, restoring the comfortable distance between them.
Vishal: "That sounds good, da. If my business appointment finishes on time, I will join you for coffee. I have a few things to attend to tomorrow, but I should be free by evening. For now, you both should get some rest. You have travelled a long way, and the reservation problem has taken up more of your time than it should have. I hope you enjoy the rest of your honeymoon and have a much more peaceful day tomorrow."
Shubha gave him a brief, sympathetic smile before following Shaktil towards the corridor.
Yet as she walked away, her thoughts remained troubled.
She was grateful to Vishal for helping them resolve the hotel problem, and his confession had awakened a compassion she had not expected. She could see that he was genuinely struggling to accept the end of their relationship, and part of her wanted to comfort him.
At the same time, she knew that compassion could easily become confusion if she allowed old emotions to blur the boundaries of her present life.
A Quiet Night and an Uncertain Heart
Inside their room, Shaktil placed the key on the table and checked whether their luggage had arrived.
Shaktil: "At least the problem has been resolved, Shubha. I was beginning to worry that we would have to spend the entire night arguing with the hotel staff. Vishal handled the situation well, and I am glad he was able to contact someone who could help. I never expected to meet him here, but perhaps it was simply an unusual coincidence. Tomorrow we can forget about tonight's inconvenience and explore the nearby attractions. I would like us to have a relaxed day without any more unexpected problems."
Shubha sat on the edge of the bed, still thinking about her conversation with Vishal.
Shubha: "Yes, Shaktil, I am relieved that the room issue has been sorted out. Vishal was helpful, and I appreciate that he did not make the situation more complicated. I was surprised to see him here because I never imagined that we would meet again so soon after the wedding. It reminded me how unexpectedly people from our past can appear in our lives. I hope we can enjoy the rest of our trip peacefully and focus on getting to know each other better."
Shaktil sat beside her.
Shaktil: "I understand that meeting someone unexpectedly can bring back memories, and I don't expect you to stop thinking simply because we are on our honeymoon. What matters to me is that we can speak honestly and respect each other's feelings. If something is troubling you, I would rather you tell me than sit quietly and worry about it alone. I know we are still learning about each other, and I want us to build a relationship in which neither of us feels forced to hide every difficult emotion."
Shubha looked at her husband and felt a quiet pang of guilt.
He had been patient with her, even when she had struggled to explain her feelings. She did not want to betray his trust, nor did she want to be dishonest about the emotional confusion caused by Vishal's return.
Shubha: "I appreciate that, Shaktil. I am still adjusting to everything that has changed in my life, and sometimes an unexpected situation leaves me thinking more than I should. But I want you to know that I am taking our marriage seriously. I want to learn your preferences, understand your nature, and discover how we can make each other happy. I don't expect our relationship to become perfect in a few days, but I hope we can keep communicating and give ourselves the opportunity to build something meaningful."
Shaktil smiled gently.
Shaktil: "That is exactly what I want too. We don't need to become the perfect couple overnight, and we don't have to enjoy every activity in the same way. I know I can be too focused on my work, and today's competitions made me realise that I sometimes fail to appreciate the effort you make to include me in your interests. I will try to become more attentive, and I hope you will continue telling me what matters to you. We have a long journey ahead of us, and I want us to approach it with patience rather than unrealistic expectations."
His words made Shubha feel both relieved and ashamed of the emotional turmoil she was experiencing.
She wanted to respond with complete certainty, but she knew that her heart was still processing the unexpected reunion.
Shubha: "Thank you for understanding me, Shaktil. I will also try to understand you better instead of expecting you to respond to every situation in the way I would. I enjoyed parts of the competitions today, even though we did not win everything, and I hope we can find other activities that make both of us happy. Tomorrow, let us explore the hills together, take some photographs, and perhaps have breakfast somewhere with a beautiful view. I want to make good memories with you and give our marriage the attention it deserves."
Shaktil: "That sounds like a wonderful plan. Let us get some sleep now, because tomorrow we can wake up early and make the most of the day. I will keep my phone away during breakfast unless something genuinely urgent happens at the shop. You can choose the places you want to visit, and I will try to enjoy the journey instead of worrying about the next item on our schedule. I am glad we came here, Shubha, and I hope this honeymoon becomes the beginning of a strong and happy relationship for both of us."
Shubha smiled and wished him good night.
But long after Shaktil had settled down, she remained awake, staring at the quiet room.
She remembered Vishal's expression when he spoke about their lost future. His sadness had seemed genuine, and she could not stop herself from feeling sorry for him.
She knew that she had no obligation to repair his broken hopes, yet the memories they shared made it difficult to regard him as a stranger.
Shubha (thinking): "Why did Vishal have to appear here just when I was beginning to feel more settled in my new life? I had told myself that our past belonged behind me, and I believed that I could meet him again without becoming emotionally disturbed. But when he spoke about the future he had imagined with me, I felt the sadness in his words. I remembered the person he once was to me, the affection we shared, and the dreams that eventually disappeared. I cannot deny that I feel compassion for him, but I must be careful not to confuse compassion with a responsibility to return to the past. Shaktil has treated me with kindness, and I owe our marriage an honest chance. Still, I cannot understand why a small part of my heart aches whenever I think about Vishal's loneliness."
She turned towards the window.
Outside, the lights of the resort illuminated the garden, and the distant hills were hidden beneath the darkness of the night.
Elsewhere in the same resort, Vishal sat alone in his room, thinking about the conversation that had taken place near the reception desk.
He had helped Shubha and Shaktil resolve their problem, but the encounter had left him more emotionally unsettled than before.
Vishal (thinking): "I came here telling myself that work was the only reason for my visit, and I genuinely did have a business meeting to attend. But I cannot pretend that knowing Shubha was staying here made no difference to me. Seeing her again brought back the feelings I have been trying to overcome, and hearing her speak with such compassion made me remember why I once cared for her so deeply. She has not promised me anything, and she has made her boundaries perfectly clear. I must respect them. Yet I cannot help wondering whether the sadness she saw in me will remain in her thoughts after she returns to her room. I know that wondering about such things is dangerous, because it encourages me to search for hope where I have no right to expect it."
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
He knew that Shubha had chosen her husband, and he could not demand anything more from her.
Still, the sight of her had reopened an emotional wound that he had not yet learned to heal.
The next morning, Shubha and Shaktil would continue their honeymoon, exploring the hills and trying to create happy memories together.
Vishal would attend his business meeting and attempt to maintain the distance he had promised.
But all three of them were now connected by an unexpected encounter that had stirred emotions none of them could entirely ignore.
Shubha felt compassion for Vishal's heartbreak.
Vishal was struggling to let go of the woman he had once loved.
And Shaktil, unaware of the full depth of their past, was trying to build a happy marriage with the woman he had chosen.
Would Shubha's compassion remain only a feeling of sympathy, or would the memories of her former relationship begin to affect her decisions?
Could Vishal truly keep his promise and move forward, or would his unresolved emotions lead him to seek another conversation with Shubha?
For now, Shubha returned to her husband's side, determined to give their marriage a fair chance.
Yet somewhere inside her heart, Vishal's sorrow remained.
TO BE CONTINUED...
My Telegram ID: Msivamuruganm
One evening, Bapu and Mai called the newlyweds into the living room.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Shaktil, you and Shubha have been occupied with family responsibilities and the arrangements following your wedding. I think it is time you both took a short break from your usual routine and spent some quality time together. Marriage is not only about fulfilling responsibilities towards the family; it is also about understanding your partner, discovering each other's interests, and creating memories that will remain precious for years. Why don't you plan a honeymoon trip somewhere beautiful? You can leave the shop in the hands of your trusted employees for a few days. We will manage things here, so you don't need to worry about the business."
Shaktil: "That's a good suggestion, Bapu, and I understand why you want us to travel. However, you know how much attention the shop requires, especially when new stock arrives and customers expect everything to be available. I usually prefer spending my free time quietly rather than travelling to crowded places. Still, Shubha has only recently become part of our family, and I don't want her to feel that her wishes are unimportant to me. If she wants to go somewhere, I'll arrange the trip and make sure she has a comfortable experience."
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Shaktil, a honeymoon is not simply a holiday that you arrange because your parents suggest it. It is an opportunity for you and Shubha to understand each other away from the usual family environment. You may be comfortable spending most of your time at the shop, but she deserves some special memories with you as well. Take her somewhere pleasant, participate in a few activities together, and make an effort to enjoy yourselves. You don't have to spend a fortune or visit an expensive destination. What matters most is the time you give each other."
Shubha listened with a shy smile. She had secretly hoped that Shaktil would suggest a honeymoon himself, and Mai's words made her feel encouraged.
Shubha: "Amma, I would really like to go somewhere with Shaktil. I don't need an expensive holiday or anything extraordinary. I simply want us to spend a few days together without constantly thinking about the shop, household duties, or other responsibilities. We could visit a beautiful hill station or a peaceful resort where we can walk around, enjoy the scenery, and participate in some activities. I believe that when two people spend time together in a new environment, they discover things about each other that they might not notice during their ordinary daily routine."
Shaktil looked at his wife and smiled.
Shaktil: "All right, Shubha. You have convinced me. Let's choose a comfortable resort and spend a few days there. I may not be enthusiastic about crowded games or organised competitions, but I'll try to make the trip enjoyable for you. Tell me what kind of place you prefer, and we can plan the arrangements together. I want you to enjoy our honeymoon rather than spend the entire time wondering whether I am happy to be there."
Shubha's face brightened.
Shubha: "Thank you, Shaktil. I know you have your own preferences, and I don't expect you to become a different person just because we're travelling together. I only hope you'll occasionally join me in the things I enjoy, just as I will try to understand the things that matter to you. We can compromise and discover a balance that suits both of us. Perhaps this trip will give us a wonderful beginning and help us become more comfortable with each other."
Within the next few days, Shaktil arranged a honeymoon package at a beautiful resort near a popular hill station. The hotel was known for its scenic gardens, comfortable rooms, romantic dining arrangements, and special honeymoon activities for newly married couples.
What Shubha did not know was that Vishal had also learned about their destination.
He had never forgotten his promise to respect her marriage. Yet the thought of Shubha spending several days with Shaktil stirred emotions he had been trying desperately to control. When an opportunity arose to attend a business meeting in the same region, he decided to travel there. He told himself that his visit was strictly related to work and that he would maintain a respectful distance from the newlyweds.
However, a small part of him secretly hoped that seeing Shubha again might give him another chance to speak about the feelings he had never completely overcome.
The Honeymoon Begins
The morning of their departure arrived.
Shubha had packed her clothes, toiletries, and a few accessories the previous night. She stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her earrings, while Shaktil checked the travel arrangements on his phone.
Shubha: "Shaktil, have you packed everything you need? I have checked our hotel reservation twice, and I have kept the identification documents safely inside my handbag. I also packed a few comfortable dresses because I thought we might go for evening walks or participate in some of the activities arranged by the resort. I am genuinely excited about this trip. For once, we can leave our usual responsibilities behind and spend some uninterrupted time together. I hope you won't spend the entire journey answering calls from the shop."
Shaktil: "I have packed everything, and I promise to keep my business calls to a minimum. I cannot guarantee that I won't check the shop's messages occasionally, because I have always been particular about my work, but I'll try to give you my attention. We have arranged for the senior employee to handle most of the routine matters. If something urgent happens, I'll deal with it briefly and return to our plans. Now, are you ready? Our cab will arrive shortly, and I don't want us to begin our honeymoon by rushing around the house."
Shubha laughed softly.
Shubha: "I am ready, and I am looking forward to seeing how you behave when there is no shop nearby to distract you. Perhaps I'll discover that my serious husband has a playful side that he has been hiding from everyone. Don't worry; I won't force you to participate in every activity. But if the hotel announces any interesting competitions for couples, I will definitely ask you to join me. You should at least give me a chance to win a prize with my husband standing beside me."
Shaktil: "You are already making plans for competitions before we have even reached the hotel! Let us first arrive safely, have lunch, and settle into our room. I prefer a peaceful holiday, Shubha, and I don't particularly enjoy performing in front of strangers or competing in silly games. However, I know you enjoy such things, so I'll consider participating if the activities are simple enough. Just don't expect me to become an enthusiastic contestant overnight."
Their journey was pleasant, and by afternoon they reached the resort.
The hotel stood amid green hills, with flowering plants lining the entrance and a broad garden extending towards a swimming pool. Couples were arriving from different parts of the country, and the staff welcomed the newlyweds with refreshing drinks and a small decorative arrangement in their room.
Shubha was delighted.
Shubha: "Shaktil, look at this place! The garden is beautiful, and the view from our balcony is even better than I imagined. I can already picture us walking around in the evening and enjoying the cool breeze. The room is lovely, and the staff have made a genuine effort to welcome us. I am glad we chose this resort instead of staying somewhere ordinary. I feel as though we have stepped away from our usual lives for a little while, and I want to make the most of every moment we spend here together."
Shaktil: "The place is certainly beautiful, and I am glad you like it. Let us unpack, freshen up, and have something to eat before exploring the resort. I would also like to check the arrangements for tomorrow, because we may want to visit the nearby viewpoint if the weather is pleasant. You can decide which places you want to see, and we will work out a schedule that doesn't make the trip exhausting. I want us to enjoy ourselves without turning the holiday into another list of responsibilities."
After resting for a while, they went down to the reception area, where a hotel employee announced a special programme for honeymoon couples.
Hotel Coordinator: "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to our honeymoon celebration programme. Tonight, we are introducing a series of five friendly competitions designed especially for newly married couples. The activities will include a partner quiz, a memory challenge, a blindfolded identification game, a teamwork task, and a final couple's challenge. Each competition will award points, and the couples who perform best will receive small prizes and a special dinner voucher. Participation is entirely voluntary, so you are welcome to join whichever activities interest you."
Shubha immediately turned towards Shaktil.
Shubha: "Did you hear that, Shaktil? Five competitions for honeymoon couples! This is exactly the kind of activity I was talking about during our journey. We don't have to win every event, but it would be fun to participate and discover how well we understand each other. Imagine if we won the final prize and received a romantic dinner voucher. It would become one of our first special memories as husband and wife. Please join me, even if you are not particularly interested in competitions."
Shaktil: "Shubha, I knew you would be excited as soon as you heard the announcement. I am not trying to spoil your happiness, but I honestly don't see the attraction of standing before a crowd and answering questions about our private lives. We have come here to relax and enjoy our honeymoon, not to prove to other people how well we know each other. If you genuinely want to participate, I will accompany you, but please don't become disappointed if I don't perform with the same enthusiasm as the other husbands."
Shubha: "I understand that you don't enjoy these things, but I would appreciate it if you made a little effort for me. I am not asking you to entertain the crowd or behave in a way that makes you uncomfortable. Just stand beside me, listen to the instructions, and participate sincerely. Sometimes the value of an activity lies not in winning but in doing something together. I have spent so much time adjusting to a new family and learning your routines that I would love to have a few moments when we can simply be a young couple enjoying ourselves."
Shaktil hesitated before agreeing.
Shaktil: "All right, Shubha. We will participate in the competitions you want to try, but I want you to remember that I am doing this because I care about your happiness, not because I suddenly enjoy public games. I will answer the questions honestly and do my best, although I may not be as energetic as the other contestants. If we win, we will celebrate, and if we lose, we can still enjoy the rest of the evening together. That seems like a fair arrangement, doesn't it?"
Shubha nodded happily.
Neither of them noticed a man standing near the reception desk, watching the proceedings from a distance.
It was Vishal.
He had checked into another room at the same resort earlier that afternoon. When he saw Shubha standing beside Shaktil, wearing a cheerful expression, he felt a sharp ache in his chest.
He forced himself to look away.
Vishal (thinking): "I promised myself that I would respect her marriage, and I must remember that promise even when my emotions become difficult to control. She looks happy to be here with Shaktil, and I should be grateful that she has the opportunity to build a new life. I have no right to expect her to look at me the way she once did. Still, seeing her in a place like this brings back memories of the future we once imagined together. I need to keep my distance and concentrate on the business meeting that brought me here. Whatever happens, I must not become the reason for another person's unhappiness."
The Five Honeymoon Competitions
The first competition was a partner quiz.
Each couple had to answer questions about their spouse's favourite food, preferred holiday destination, daily habits, and personal interests. Shubha answered most of the questions enthusiastically, while Shaktil occasionally hesitated because he had never paid much attention to such details about himself.
Hotel Coordinator: "Our first competition is about how well you know your partner. There are no trick questions, and you should answer according to what you genuinely believe. Remember, the purpose is to learn something about each other, not to argue over who knows more. Sometimes a wrong answer can lead to an interesting conversation, so enjoy the process and don't take the scores too seriously."
When it was Shubha's turn, she answered several questions correctly. Shaktil, however, gave a different answer when asked about her favourite way to spend a holiday.
Shubha: "Shaktil, you should have known that I prefer visiting places where there are interesting things to see and do. I enjoy quiet surroundings too, but I don't want to spend an entire holiday sitting inside a room. I like walking around, trying new activities, and discovering something different. It is not a serious mistake, of course, but I hope you will remember these little things about me as we spend more time together. I want us to learn about each other naturally rather than assume that we already know everything."
Shaktil: "You are right, and I should have paid more attention when you spoke about your interests. I have spent so many years following the same routine that I sometimes forget other people enjoy trying new experiences. I know you are more adventurous than I am, and I will try to remember that. But you must also accept that I may not always understand your preferences immediately. We have only just begun our life together, and there will be plenty of opportunities for us to learn."
Their scores were announced.
Shubha and Shaktil finished in the middle of the group.
The second competition was a memory challenge. Each couple was shown a collection of objects for a short time and then asked to recall as many items as possible.
Shubha concentrated carefully, remembering almost everything. Shaktil was less interested and forgot several objects, but her quick answers helped them secure second place.
Shubha: "We did it, Shaktil! We may not have come first, but at least we worked together and earned a good score. I was nervous when the coordinator removed the objects, but I remembered most of them after taking a deep breath. You also remembered a few things that I had missed, so we managed to help each other. This is what I meant when I said that participating together could be enjoyable. We have already won a small prize, and I am happy that you agreed to join me."
Shaktil: "Congratulations, Shubha. You certainly did most of the work in that competition, and I must admit that your memory is better than mine when it comes to such details. I am happy that you enjoyed it, although I still think I would have been equally content sitting in the garden with a cup of coffee. Nevertheless, we have earned a prize, and I don't want to take away your happiness by complaining. Let us see what the next event involves before deciding whether we should participate again."
The third competition was a blindfolded identification game. One partner had to identify the other by holding their hand briefly, while several contestants stood in a line.
Shaktil appeared uncomfortable with the activity and did not seem interested in practising beforehand. Shubha, however, was determined to do her best.
When her turn came, she carefully examined each contestant's hand and identified Shaktil correctly.
The audience applauded.
Hotel Coordinator: "Excellent! Shubha has identified her husband correctly, and that earns their team another point. It is wonderful to see contestants trusting their instincts and enjoying the game. Let us give every couple a round of applause for participating with such good sportsmanship."
Shubha smiled proudly, but Shaktil merely offered a polite smile before stepping aside.
Shubha: "Shaktil, I got it right! I was afraid I might become confused because everyone was standing so close together, but I recognised your hand. I know it may sound like a small achievement, yet I enjoyed the excitement of trying to identify you correctly. I wish you would celebrate with me a little more enthusiastically. We are on our honeymoon, and I would love to feel that we are sharing these moments rather than simply completing activities because I requested them."
Shaktil: "I am pleased that you got the answer right, and I congratulate you. I am sorry if my reaction seemed disappointing, but I find it difficult to express excitement over every little event in the way you do. That does not mean I am unhappy with you or that I don't want you to enjoy yourself. I simply react differently. Please don't measure my affection by how loudly I cheer at a competition. I hope you will gradually understand my nature just as I am trying to understand yours."
His explanation made sense, but Shubha could not help feeling slightly disappointed.
The fourth competition involved a teamwork task in which couples had to assemble a simple picture puzzle within a time limit.
Shubha encouraged Shaktil to participate properly, but he continued to approach the activity casually. They finished the puzzle too late to qualify for a prize.
Shubha: "I know we are not competing for a fortune, and I don't mind losing when we have genuinely tried. What makes me a little sad is that I keep feeling as though I am the only one who wants to make these activities special. You are physically standing beside me, but sometimes your attention seems to be somewhere else entirely. I don't want you to pretend to enjoy something you dislike, yet I hope you will occasionally make an effort because it matters to me. I want to feel that my happiness is important to you too."
Shaktil: "I understand what you are saying, Shubha, and I am sorry that I have made you feel that way. I am not deliberately ignoring your wishes. I simply don't enjoy these competitions, and when I find myself doing something I dislike, I sometimes lose interest without realising how it affects the person beside me. I should have tried harder to cooperate instead of assuming that my presence alone would be enough. I will keep your words in mind, and perhaps we can choose activities that interest both of us during the rest of our trip."
The fifth and final competition was a couple's challenge involving a series of simple tasks that required coordination and quick decisions.
Shubha approached it with renewed determination. She listened carefully to the instructions, encouraged Shaktil to cooperate, and tried to guide him through each task. Although he participated, his lack of enthusiasm prevented them from completing the challenge quickly enough.
They finished the competition without winning a prize.
When the final scores were announced, Shubha and Shaktil had won two of the five events: the memory challenge and the blindfolded identification game. They received a small souvenir and a certificate recognising their participation.
Shubha accepted the prize with a smile, but disappointment lingered beneath her expression.
Shubha: "I am glad that we won two competitions, and I don't want to sound ungrateful because we did have some enjoyable moments. However, I had imagined that we would encourage each other throughout the evening and perhaps become closer through these activities. I know that you dislike public competitions, and I respect that. But I also want you to understand that I was hoping to see a more playful side of you, even if only for a few minutes. I don't need you to win every game or impress anyone. I simply want to feel that you are happy to share these new experiences with me."
Shaktil: "I am sorry, Shubha. I can see that you expected more enthusiasm from me, and I should not dismiss that feeling just because I personally dislike competitions. I agreed to participate because I wanted you to be happy, but I failed to understand that you wanted us to enjoy the experience together rather than simply stand beside each other. I will try to make more of an effort during the rest of our honeymoon. Let us leave the competition area behind and have dinner somewhere quiet. We can talk properly without an audience, and tomorrow we can choose something we both enjoy."
Shubha nodded, deciding not to let the disappointment spoil the entire evening.
From a distance, Vishal had watched part of the programme. He had noticed the way Shubha encouraged her husband and the quiet disappointment on her face when Shaktil failed to respond enthusiastically.
He knew he should not interfere.
Nevertheless, he found himself wondering whether Shaktil understood how much small gestures of affection could mean to his wife.
An Unexpected Problem at the Resort
Later that evening, Shubha and Shaktil returned to their room after dinner. They were looking forward to resting before exploring the nearby hills the following morning.
However, when they reached the reception area, they discovered that there was a problem with their room reservation.
Reception Manager: "I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience, sir and madam. Our booking system has incorrectly marked your room as available for another reservation, and the incoming guests have already arrived. We are checking the records to understand how this happened. Unfortunately, our other honeymoon rooms are currently occupied, and the only available alternative is a standard room in another wing. We can arrange temporary accommodation there while we investigate the error, but I understand that this is not what you booked or paid for. Please allow us a little time to resolve the matter."
Shubha looked worried.
Shubha: "We made this reservation well in advance, and our booking confirmation clearly mentions the honeymoon room we selected. We have travelled a considerable distance, participated in the hotel's scheduled activities, and returned expecting to rest. I understand that mistakes can happen, but it is upsetting to discover that our room may no longer be available after we have already checked in. Could you please review the reservation carefully and explain what arrangements you can offer? We would prefer not to spend the night moving from one room to another because of an error we did not make."
Shaktil: "I agree with my wife. We have paid for a specific category of room, and we expect the hotel to honour the reservation or provide an equivalent alternative. I don't want to create an argument with your staff, but we need a clear solution tonight rather than a promise that the matter will be investigated tomorrow. Please contact the duty manager and check whether another suitable room can be arranged. If that is impossible, I would like to know what compensation the hotel can offer for the inconvenience."
The receptionist made several calls, but no immediate solution emerged.
Shaktil became increasingly frustrated, while Shubha tried to remain calm.
At that moment, Vishal entered the reception area.
He had been returning from a meeting with a local business associate when he noticed the couple speaking with the manager. Recognising Shubha, he approached them cautiously.
Vishal: "Shaktil, is everything all right? I happened to hear part of the conversation while passing through the lobby, and it sounds as though there has been a problem with your reservation. I don't want to intrude on your private matters, but if the hotel has made an administrative mistake, perhaps I can help you speak to the appropriate person. I have been attending business meetings in this region, and one of the people I met today has professional connections with the hospitality industry. If you would like me to make a call, I can at least help you reach someone who may be able to clarify the situation."
Shubha stared at him in surprise.
Shubha: "Vishal! What are you doing here? I never expected to see you at this resort, especially when we came here for our honeymoon. When you approached us just now, I thought I must have mistaken someone else for you. You told us that you had returned to India, but you never mentioned that you would be travelling to this region. I hope nothing serious has happened with your work. How did you happen to be here at exactly the same time as us?"
For a moment, Vishal hesitated.
He had prepared an explanation in his mind, but hearing Shubha question him so directly made him uncomfortable.
Vishal: "I understand why you are surprised, Shubha, and I admit that the timing is unexpected. I came here because of a business matter that required me to meet an associate in this region. The meeting was arranged before I knew that you and Shaktil would be staying at this resort. I checked into the hotel because it was convenient for my work, and I had no intention of disturbing your honeymoon. I realise that my presence may raise questions, but I want you both to know that I am not here to interfere with your plans."
Shaktil looked surprised but quickly recovered.
Shaktil: "What a coincidence, da! I certainly didn't expect to meet you here. I hope your business meeting went well. Since you know people in the hospitality industry, your offer to help is welcome, because we seem to have reached a dead end with the reservation issue. We are not looking for special treatment, but we do want the hotel to honour the booking we made. If a phone call can help the manager find a proper solution, I would appreciate it."
Vishal spoke briefly with the reception manager and then called his business associate. After explaining the situation, he requested assistance in contacting the hotel's regional administration.
Within a short time, the manager received instructions to review the original booking and arrange a suitable alternative room without additional charges. The hotel also offered a complimentary dinner voucher as an apology for the inconvenience.
Reception Manager: "Thank you for your patience, sir and madam. We have now confirmed that the error occurred during an internal room-allocation update. Your original room has been incorrectly assigned to another reservation, and we accept responsibility for the mistake. We can provide you with an equivalent honeymoon room in the adjoining wing tonight, with the option to move to your originally booked room tomorrow if you prefer. The hotel will also provide a complimentary dinner voucher to compensate for the inconvenience. We sincerely apologise for the disruption to your evening."
Shubha felt relieved, and Shaktil thanked the manager.
Shaktil: "Thank you for resolving the issue. We appreciate your efforts, and I am glad that we can finally return to our room and rest. Vishal, I must thank you as well. We were beginning to wonder whether we would spend the entire evening arguing about a booking error, and your assistance helped us reach a solution without unnecessary conflict. I didn't expect to meet you here, but I am grateful that you happened to be available when we needed help."
Vishal: "There is no need to thank me excessively, da. Anyone would want to help a friend who was facing an unnecessary problem during a holiday. I am glad the manager has arranged a proper solution, and I hope the rest of your honeymoon goes smoothly. You both came here to enjoy some peaceful time together, so I don't want this inconvenience to spoil your plans. Please go and rest. I will also return to my room because I have another business appointment tomorrow morning."
Shaktil smiled and shook his hand.
Shaktil: "All right, da. We will catch up another time. I am glad we met, even though the circumstances were a little inconvenient. Perhaps we can have coffee together if our schedules allow it before you leave. You can tell me more about your work, and I can share what has been happening at the shop. For now, I need to make sure Shubha settles comfortably into the new room. Good night, and thank you again."
Shaktil turned towards the corridor, expecting Shubha to follow him.
However, she remained where she was for a moment, looking at Vishal.
She was still trying to understand how he had appeared at the resort so unexpectedly.
Shubha's Questions and Vishal's Pain
After Shaktil went ahead to collect their room key, Shubha spoke quietly to Vishal.
Shubha: "Vishal, I know you have explained that you came here for work, and I am not accusing you of deliberately following us. However, I cannot deny that your sudden appearance has surprised me. You were at our wedding, you promised to respect my marriage, and now you have appeared at the same resort where Shaktil and I are spending our honeymoon. I don't want to misunderstand you, but I also don't want to find myself in a situation where our past begins affecting my present again. Please tell me honestly whether you knew about our travel plans before coming here."
Vishal looked down for a moment.
Vishal: "Shubha, I understand why you are asking that question, and you deserve an honest answer. I did not arrange my business meeting simply to follow you, and I did not book my room with the intention of disturbing your honeymoon. The meeting was genuine, and I had a legitimate reason to travel here. However, I did learn that you and Shaktil were planning this trip before I arrived. I should have considered how uncomfortable it might make you feel to encounter me unexpectedly, and perhaps I should have chosen accommodation elsewhere. I cannot change the fact that we are here at the same time, but I can assure you that I will respect your boundaries and will not deliberately seek out private moments with you."
Shubha felt a mixture of relief and concern.
His answer had not completely removed her doubts, but she appreciated that he had admitted knowing about their trip.
Shubha: "I appreciate your honesty, Vishal. I don't want to be cruel to you, and I understand that you have been struggling with painful memories since the wedding. But please remember that this trip is important to Shaktil and me, even though we are still learning how to understand each other. I don't want him to become suspicious or feel that I am hiding something from him. If we happen to meet in the public areas of the resort, we can speak politely, but I hope you will not create reasons for us to be alone together. I need to protect the trust that is beginning to grow between my husband and me."
Vishal listened carefully.
Vishal: "I understand, Shubha, and I will not ask you to break the boundaries you have established. I know that you are trying to build a stable marriage, and I have no intention of making that more difficult. Still, I would be lying if I said that seeing you again has not affected me. I thought I had prepared myself to accept your marriage, but some emotions are more difficult to overcome than I expected. I am not telling you this because I want you to change your decision. I simply want to be honest about the struggle I am facing rather than pretend that everything has become easy for me."
Shubha's expression softened.
Shubha: "I never expected you to forget everything overnight, Vishal. We shared an important part of our lives, and I know that memories do not disappear simply because circumstances change. But there is a difference between acknowledging pain and allowing that pain to direct every decision we make. I hope you will give yourself the opportunity to heal without repeatedly returning to the past. You have your own life, your own responsibilities, and the ability to build new relationships when you are ready. I genuinely want you to find happiness, even though I cannot be the person who provides it in the way you once hoped."
Vishal gave a sad smile.
Vishal: "Do you know what hurts the most, Shubha? It isn't simply that you married someone else. I think it is the realisation that the future I imagined with you no longer exists, while the memories of that future remain vivid in my mind. There are moments when I remember the conversations we shared, the promises we made, and the ordinary things we once thought we would do together. Then I see you standing beside Shaktil, beginning the life you deserve, and I understand that those memories belong to a chapter that has already ended. I am trying to accept that truth, but some days it feels as though I am learning it all over again."
Shubha felt a sudden ache in her heart.
She had not forgotten their past either. Although she had chosen to move forward, hearing Vishal speak so openly reminded her of the affection they had once shared.
Shubha: "Vishal, I am sorry that you are hurting so much. I never wanted the memories we shared to become a source of suffering for either of us. There was a time when I also imagined a future that included you, and I cannot pretend that those feelings never existed. But life took us in different directions, and I eventually had to accept that I could not continue waiting for a future that was no longer certain. My marriage to Shaktil is now a responsibility I have chosen to honour, and I need to give him the same sincerity that I would expect from him. Please don't think that moving forward means our past was meaningless. It simply means that our past cannot decide everything about our future."
Vishal's eyes reflected the sadness he had been trying to hide.
Vishal: "I understand what you are saying, and I don't blame you for choosing a new life. I know that you have every right to be happy, and I know that I must not make you feel guilty for decisions you have already made. Perhaps I have been holding on because accepting the end of our relationship also means accepting the mistakes I made and the opportunities I failed to recognise. I sometimes wonder whether I could have acted differently, whether I could have been more patient, or whether I could have understood you better when we were together. Those questions keep returning, even though I know there is no answer that can change what happened."
Shubha lowered her eyes.
His words stirred feelings of compassion that she had not expected to experience so strongly.
Shubha: "It is natural to think about mistakes when a relationship ends, Vishal, but please don't assume that every painful outcome happened because you failed in some way. Relationships involve two people, their circumstances, their expectations, and the choices they make at different stages of life. You can learn from what happened without spending every day blaming yourself. I don't want you to become bitter or lose confidence in your ability to love someone again. You deserve a future that is not defined by regret. I hope you will eventually meet someone who understands you and with whom you can build a new life honestly and peacefully."
Vishal took a deep breath.
Vishal: "I want to believe that such a future is possible, but at the moment I am still trying to understand how to reach it. Seeing you today brought back feelings I thought I had managed to control. When the reservation problem occurred, I genuinely wanted to help you and Shaktil because I did not want your honeymoon to be spoiled. But another part of me was relieved to have a reason to speak with you again. I know that is something I need to examine honestly. I don't want my concern for you to become an excuse for crossing boundaries that you have clearly explained to me."
Shubha looked at him with quiet sympathy.
Shubha: "Thank you for recognising that, Vishal. I believe you can make the right decisions if you continue to be honest with yourself. You don't have to suppress every emotion, and you don't have to pretend that seeing me has no effect on you. But you must remember that feelings do not automatically give us the right to act on them. Sometimes the most difficult thing to do is to care about someone while accepting that their life is no longer connected to ours in the way we once wanted. I hope you will find the strength to do that, because I don't want either of us to look back on this period with regret."
For a few seconds, neither of them spoke.
The sounds of the reception area continued around them, but their conversation seemed to have created a small, separate world of memories and unspoken emotions.
Vishal wanted to reach out to her, to stand closer and feel the familiarity he remembered from their earlier relationship. He took a small step forward, then stopped when he noticed the uncertainty in her expression.
Vishal: "Shubha, sometimes I wish I could speak to you as freely as I once did, without thinking about every sentence or worrying that a simple conversation might cause trouble. I miss the comfort of knowing that I could share my thoughts with you and that you would understand what I meant, even when I struggled to explain myself. I know that we cannot return to that relationship, and I am not asking you to ignore your marriage. But I hope you understand why it is difficult for me to accept that the person who once knew me so well is now someone I must approach with so much caution."
Shubha felt the pull of old familiarity, followed by a stronger awareness of her present responsibilities.
Shubha: "I understand, Vishal. I remember the comfort we once shared, and I cannot deny that speaking to you brings back some of those feelings. But I also know that our circumstances have changed, and we cannot continue behaving as though nothing has happened since we were together. I want you to find peace, and I can listen to you with compassion when we meet naturally, but I cannot become the person you depend on whenever your memories become painful. That would make it difficult for both of us to move forward. I hope you can respect that distinction, even when it is not easy."
Vishal nodded slowly.
Vishal: "I will try, Shubha. I don't want to place the burden of my feelings on you, and I don't want to create a situation in which you must choose between being kind to me and being loyal to your husband. I know that your marriage deserves honesty and trust. I will remember what you have said, and I will make a conscious effort to manage my emotions rather than expect you to reassure me whenever I feel lonely. I hope that one day I can remember our past with gratitude instead of pain."
Shubha's eyes became moist, though she quickly composed herself.
Shubha: "I sincerely hope that day comes for you, Vishal. You were once an important part of my life, and I don't wish you suffering or loneliness. But I also need to return to Shaktil now. He is waiting for me, and I don't want him to wonder why we have been standing here talking for so long. Please take care of yourself, focus on your work, and give yourself time to heal. We cannot rewrite the past, but we can still make choices that prevent it from hurting the people around us."
At that moment, Shaktil returned with the new room key.
Shaktil: "Shubha, the manager has given us the key, and our luggage has already been moved to the new room. Everything is sorted out now, so we can finally relax. Vishal, thank you again for helping us. I am glad we ran into you, although I wish the circumstances had been more pleasant. If you are free tomorrow evening, perhaps we can meet for coffee in the restaurant. I would enjoy catching up with you properly before you return to your work."
Vishal immediately stepped back, restoring the comfortable distance between them.
Vishal: "That sounds good, da. If my business appointment finishes on time, I will join you for coffee. I have a few things to attend to tomorrow, but I should be free by evening. For now, you both should get some rest. You have travelled a long way, and the reservation problem has taken up more of your time than it should have. I hope you enjoy the rest of your honeymoon and have a much more peaceful day tomorrow."
Shubha gave him a brief, sympathetic smile before following Shaktil towards the corridor.
Yet as she walked away, her thoughts remained troubled.
She was grateful to Vishal for helping them resolve the hotel problem, and his confession had awakened a compassion she had not expected. She could see that he was genuinely struggling to accept the end of their relationship, and part of her wanted to comfort him.
At the same time, she knew that compassion could easily become confusion if she allowed old emotions to blur the boundaries of her present life.
A Quiet Night and an Uncertain Heart
Inside their room, Shaktil placed the key on the table and checked whether their luggage had arrived.
Shaktil: "At least the problem has been resolved, Shubha. I was beginning to worry that we would have to spend the entire night arguing with the hotel staff. Vishal handled the situation well, and I am glad he was able to contact someone who could help. I never expected to meet him here, but perhaps it was simply an unusual coincidence. Tomorrow we can forget about tonight's inconvenience and explore the nearby attractions. I would like us to have a relaxed day without any more unexpected problems."
Shubha sat on the edge of the bed, still thinking about her conversation with Vishal.
Shubha: "Yes, Shaktil, I am relieved that the room issue has been sorted out. Vishal was helpful, and I appreciate that he did not make the situation more complicated. I was surprised to see him here because I never imagined that we would meet again so soon after the wedding. It reminded me how unexpectedly people from our past can appear in our lives. I hope we can enjoy the rest of our trip peacefully and focus on getting to know each other better."
Shaktil sat beside her.
Shaktil: "I understand that meeting someone unexpectedly can bring back memories, and I don't expect you to stop thinking simply because we are on our honeymoon. What matters to me is that we can speak honestly and respect each other's feelings. If something is troubling you, I would rather you tell me than sit quietly and worry about it alone. I know we are still learning about each other, and I want us to build a relationship in which neither of us feels forced to hide every difficult emotion."
Shubha looked at her husband and felt a quiet pang of guilt.
He had been patient with her, even when she had struggled to explain her feelings. She did not want to betray his trust, nor did she want to be dishonest about the emotional confusion caused by Vishal's return.
Shubha: "I appreciate that, Shaktil. I am still adjusting to everything that has changed in my life, and sometimes an unexpected situation leaves me thinking more than I should. But I want you to know that I am taking our marriage seriously. I want to learn your preferences, understand your nature, and discover how we can make each other happy. I don't expect our relationship to become perfect in a few days, but I hope we can keep communicating and give ourselves the opportunity to build something meaningful."
Shaktil smiled gently.
Shaktil: "That is exactly what I want too. We don't need to become the perfect couple overnight, and we don't have to enjoy every activity in the same way. I know I can be too focused on my work, and today's competitions made me realise that I sometimes fail to appreciate the effort you make to include me in your interests. I will try to become more attentive, and I hope you will continue telling me what matters to you. We have a long journey ahead of us, and I want us to approach it with patience rather than unrealistic expectations."
His words made Shubha feel both relieved and ashamed of the emotional turmoil she was experiencing.
She wanted to respond with complete certainty, but she knew that her heart was still processing the unexpected reunion.
Shubha: "Thank you for understanding me, Shaktil. I will also try to understand you better instead of expecting you to respond to every situation in the way I would. I enjoyed parts of the competitions today, even though we did not win everything, and I hope we can find other activities that make both of us happy. Tomorrow, let us explore the hills together, take some photographs, and perhaps have breakfast somewhere with a beautiful view. I want to make good memories with you and give our marriage the attention it deserves."
Shaktil: "That sounds like a wonderful plan. Let us get some sleep now, because tomorrow we can wake up early and make the most of the day. I will keep my phone away during breakfast unless something genuinely urgent happens at the shop. You can choose the places you want to visit, and I will try to enjoy the journey instead of worrying about the next item on our schedule. I am glad we came here, Shubha, and I hope this honeymoon becomes the beginning of a strong and happy relationship for both of us."
Shubha smiled and wished him good night.
But long after Shaktil had settled down, she remained awake, staring at the quiet room.
She remembered Vishal's expression when he spoke about their lost future. His sadness had seemed genuine, and she could not stop herself from feeling sorry for him.
She knew that she had no obligation to repair his broken hopes, yet the memories they shared made it difficult to regard him as a stranger.
Shubha (thinking): "Why did Vishal have to appear here just when I was beginning to feel more settled in my new life? I had told myself that our past belonged behind me, and I believed that I could meet him again without becoming emotionally disturbed. But when he spoke about the future he had imagined with me, I felt the sadness in his words. I remembered the person he once was to me, the affection we shared, and the dreams that eventually disappeared. I cannot deny that I feel compassion for him, but I must be careful not to confuse compassion with a responsibility to return to the past. Shaktil has treated me with kindness, and I owe our marriage an honest chance. Still, I cannot understand why a small part of my heart aches whenever I think about Vishal's loneliness."
She turned towards the window.
Outside, the lights of the resort illuminated the garden, and the distant hills were hidden beneath the darkness of the night.
Elsewhere in the same resort, Vishal sat alone in his room, thinking about the conversation that had taken place near the reception desk.
He had helped Shubha and Shaktil resolve their problem, but the encounter had left him more emotionally unsettled than before.
Vishal (thinking): "I came here telling myself that work was the only reason for my visit, and I genuinely did have a business meeting to attend. But I cannot pretend that knowing Shubha was staying here made no difference to me. Seeing her again brought back the feelings I have been trying to overcome, and hearing her speak with such compassion made me remember why I once cared for her so deeply. She has not promised me anything, and she has made her boundaries perfectly clear. I must respect them. Yet I cannot help wondering whether the sadness she saw in me will remain in her thoughts after she returns to her room. I know that wondering about such things is dangerous, because it encourages me to search for hope where I have no right to expect it."
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
He knew that Shubha had chosen her husband, and he could not demand anything more from her.
Still, the sight of her had reopened an emotional wound that he had not yet learned to heal.
The next morning, Shubha and Shaktil would continue their honeymoon, exploring the hills and trying to create happy memories together.
Vishal would attend his business meeting and attempt to maintain the distance he had promised.
But all three of them were now connected by an unexpected encounter that had stirred emotions none of them could entirely ignore.
Shubha felt compassion for Vishal's heartbreak.
Vishal was struggling to let go of the woman he had once loved.
And Shaktil, unaware of the full depth of their past, was trying to build a happy marriage with the woman he had chosen.
Would Shubha's compassion remain only a feeling of sympathy, or would the memories of her former relationship begin to affect her decisions?
Could Vishal truly keep his promise and move forward, or would his unresolved emotions lead him to seek another conversation with Shubha?
For now, Shubha returned to her husband's side, determined to give their marriage a fair chance.
Yet somewhere inside her heart, Vishal's sorrow remained.
TO BE CONTINUED...
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