4 Priorities

                                    

                                          
Naira's POV
"Today has been exhausting. After my conversation with Mr. Kakkar, I had a marathon of three back-to-back meetings at the office. Just when I thought it was winding down, my head called with an unexpected offer: a promotion to Regional Manager.
I'm stunned. This role is a significant leap, and I never imagined I'd be considered. Three people have resigned from this position before, citing the immense pressure. The financial benefits are substantial, but I'm hesitant.
With my potential marriage to Mr. Kakkar looming, taking on this responsibility feels daunting. I'm still unsure about him, and adding this stress to the mix seems overwhelming.
I need Dad and Neha's guidance. Taking on this responsibility, marriage, and uncertainty about Mr. Kakkar feels overwhelming.
As I parked the car, I noticed Papa in a heated conversation with someone. His words echoed in my mind: "It was the most important deal, Ravi... We won't make it now... I'm bankrupt."
Mom approached him, concern etched on her face. "What happened?"
Papa's voice cracked. "Nalini, our daughter's wedding is at risk. Neha got accepted into London University, but how will we afford it now? I've failed my daughters."
I felt a pang in my heart, seeing Papa so distraught.
I waited a few minutes, then rang the bell, composing myself before entering.
"Papa, can we talk?" I asked, finding him in his room.
"Of course, beta. What's on your mind?" he asked, his eyes still clouded with worry.
"Papa, I got promoted to Regional Manager at the firm," I announced, trying to sound cheerful.
His face lit up. "Congratulations, beta! This is wonderful news. But why do you look troubled?"
"Papa, do you want me to be happy?" I asked, my voice trembling.
"Of course, beta. Your happiness is everything to me," he replied, confusion etched on his face.
"Papa, I want to cancel the wedding. I need more time to focus on my career. I've worked hard for this success, and I don't want anything to distract me."
Papa's expression turned thoughtful. "But beta, they'll support your career. I made that clear before agreeing to the marriage. You don't have to choose."
"I understand, Papa, but I want to establish myself first. Please understand."
"Papa, I've made up my mind. I need your support," I said firmly, meeting his gaze.
"Are you certain, beta? This isn't an impulsive decision, is it?" he pressed, his voice laced with concern.
I placed the bangles Mrs. Kakkar gave me on his desk, a symbol of my resolve.
"No, Papa. I've thought this through. I want to focus on my career, and I cannot do that with the weight of marriage on my shoulders right now."
Papa's expression softened, seeing the determination in my eyes.
"I understand, beta. But you know this won't be easy. The Kakkar family will not take this lightly."
"I know, Papa. But I'm willing to face the consequences. I want to make myself proud, and I need your blessing to do so."
Papa sighed, his shoulders sagging in resignation.
"Okay, beta. I'll support you. But promise me one thing: you'll always prioritize your happiness."
"I promise, Papa."
Mom burst into the room, her face etched with worry. Papa gave me a subtle nod, signaling me to leave.
As I stepped out, I heard Mom's distressed voice. "Rohan, how could you? You're supporting her decision? What about our reputation? What about Neha's future?"
Papa's calm tone reassured me. "Nalini, beta has made up her mind. We must support her."
Mom's sobs filled the air, and I felt a pang in my heart. Papa's gentle words continued to soothe her.
I admired how Papa handled Mom's emotions, a quality I cherished in their relationship.
My resolve strengthened. I couldn't let my family worry about me, especially when Neha's dreams were at stake. I wouldn't abandon them now.
"I'll make it right, Papa," I whispered to myself, determination coursing through my veins.
I burst into Neha's room, enveloping her in a tight hug. She reciprocated, and we held each other for a moment, basking in sisterly love.
"You got the letter!" I exclaimed.
Neha grinned, covering her ears. "Yes, I did! Oh, Naira, it's happening! I'm going to London!"
Her excitement was contagious. She shared every detail - from course selections to accommodation plans. I listened, beaming with pride.
"By the way, I have some news too," I said, barely containing my smile.
"What is it?" Neha's curiosity was piqued.
"I got promoted to Regional Manager!" I announced.
Neha's eyes widened. "That's amazing, didi! Congratulations!"
We shared a triumphant hug.
Then, she said, "You better fix your marriage date before my flight."
My heart skipped a beat. I took a deep breath, gathering courage.
"Neha, I need to tell you something," I began.
"I've decided to call off the wedding."
Neha's eyes widened. "What? Why?"
"I want to focus on my career," I explained. "This promotion means a lot to me, and I don't want anything to distract me."
Neha's expression turned thoughtful. "You're really sure about this?"
I nodded firmly. "Yes, I am."
Neha hugged me tightly. "I support you, didi. Whatever makes you happy."
________At Dinner that night
Dinner was a silent affair, the tension palpable. Everyone seemed lost in thought, their faces etched with concern. I forced a smile, trying to lighten the mood, but it only felt hollow.
As I retreated to my room, my mind began to whirl. Ansh's reaction weighed heavily on me. He had been so confident that I was the perfect match. How would he take the news?
I lay on my bed, staring at the ceiling. Our conversations, his smiles, and his expectations swirled in my head. I couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt.
"How will I face him?" I wondered. "Will he understand? Or will he feel betrayed?"
My phone buzzed, breaking the silence. Ansh's name flashed on the screen.
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