Read Whispers and Winks :: The Nonchalant Response

Money—the universal currency of dreams and dilemmas. It has a way of both liberating and ensnaring us, doesn’t it? Those who’ve felt its absence understand its weight more than anyone.

Kai’s offer—a tantalizing proposition, wrapped in green paper. It beckons like a secret passage to a different life. And yet, I'm willing to dance on the tightrope of complication. Perhaps it’s not just about the zeros; it’s about the stories they write—the choices, the risks, the unexpected turns.

May be I am money minded or may be I am selfish, but I am sure I am complicated and everybody knows comlpicated is code for a "bit**."

The next morning, I pretended to be cool while getting ready for work. My mom’s voice cut through the routine: “Sia, I called Kai's mom and told her you agreed to marry him. Are you sure you’re not rushing?”

Sia's (inner monologue) Not rushing? Well, that’s debatable. But for now, let’s focus on practical matters. “I’m not rushing, Mom,” I replied. “Just pack my lunch; it’s late for work. You won’t have any of these troubles once I’m married.”

“We want you to have a good life, Yeona. All parents wish the same for their children. I wish you guys had dated before marriage.” Mom said filling her eyes with empathy

Sia's (inner monologue) If only I could tell them the real reason—money, plain and simple.

“Don’t worry, Mom. Your future son-in-law seems like a nice guy. It’s okay; we can date after marriage.” I replied kissing her on the forehead.

Dad (shouting) “We all married without dating! Arranged marriages are the best.”

“Yeah, Dad is right, Mom.” And with that, it’s time—I’ll leave. Bye…

Ora, Sia's trusty chauffeur and confidante, drops her off at the office with a wave and a promise to pick you up later. Little do you know that your day is about to take a sharp turn into the unexpected.

Armed with determination (and perhaps a touch of curiosity), Sai embark on a social media hunt for Kai. But alas, he’s like a digital phantom—no trace of him anywhere. Maybe he’s a secret agent? Or just really good at hiding his online presence.

Suddenly, Sia's phone buzzes with an unknown number. It’s Kai! He’s not one for pleasantries; he dives right in. “Can I meet you in the evening?” he asks. You’re probably thinking, “Well, hello to you too, Mr. Mysterious.”

The café was dimly lit, and the air hummed with anticipation. Sana sat there, impeccably dressed, as though he’d stepped out of a black-and-white film. His eyes bore into mine—no pleasantries, no preamble. Just a straightforward declaration:

“My mom said that you agreed to marry me! When do you want to do it?”

“I’m fine on any day—it’s your choice,” I murmured. Because why not? Life had thrown stranger things my way. And honestly, who needed a grand romantic gesture when you could settle for a pragmatic agreement?

Shall we get married next week?” he asked, as if discussing weekend plans. His confidence was baffling. But then again, maybe that’s how contract marriages began—over coffee, with no fanfare.

I glanced around the café. The barista raised an eyebrow, as if sensing the absurdity of it all. But hey, I’d survived worse. So, I squared my shoulders and replied, “Then next week it is!”