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I can’t live here anymore.This entire house reminds me of him, of his treachery.I don’t know how, but I somehow rise to my feet and walk into my room. On automation, I open my wardrobe, pull out my clothes, and dump them in my suitcase.
I need my parents. Only they can help me get my life back in shape and wipe away my sorrow in every possible way.
Chapter 1
Alisha
Mumbai
A few months later
“With the summer in full swing, I think now would be a good time to introduce my new summer collection,” I say to my assistant, Rewa. Meanwhile, I arrange the garment properly on the hanger so the folds do not wrinkle and the fabric does not wear out.
“This dress is perfect for the season and is such a steal.” Her brown eyes shine as she lightly traces her hands over the lovely rayon fabric. I look over at Rewa, dressed in blue skin-fitting jeans with a white shirt which accentuates her slim figure. Today, her long black hair is arranged in a bun with her front hair parted in the middle. I think back to three months ago when I inaugurated this boutique and hired her as my assistant. I must say, having her around is a great support. Also, being about the same age, our ideas always sync with each other, bringing the best outcomes.
I nod my head. “That it is.” My eyes move to the red elegant strapless jumpsuit that’s on the mannequin. There was a lot of brainstorming and sleepless nights put behind that dress. But seeing the masterpiece pays for all the effort.
“You know, I can’t thank my stars enough for joining you. You have been a great mentor. I got to learn so much from you. And what makes it even more special is that you have been more of a friend than my boss,” she says with a smile that mirrors mine. That’s not a lie. I feel equally lucky that we clicked. And we for sure share more of a friendly relationship than that of an employer-employee.
“That’s there.” I shoot her a smile and walk over to my reddish-brown wooden desk that sits in the corner. I open my laptop and start going through our online orders. A small smile forms on my lips when I see the growing sales. My boutique caters to a wide range of trendy wear for women, and to my delight, it is gaining popularity.
Rewa takes her seat opposite me. “With our blooming business, we might soon have to find a bigger space,” she says as she looks around, and my eyes follow hers.
This boutique is a gift from my parents. They didn’t think twice before buying this space for me. That’s how my parents are; they have been nothing but welcoming and supportive since I arrived. And that’s the reason this place is close to my heart, holding sentimental values for me.
Well, if you look at it, it’s a small one, about twenty-by-twenty feet. The bluish-grey-coloured walls, painted from top to bottom, with a simple floral design border all the way around are just as I like. The ceiling is the same colour as the walls, and the dark brown stained wooden floor panelling accentuates the entire look. All my collections are neatly organised on the hanger and a couple of other garments are displayed on the shelves in the racks. Apart from that, the potted plants that my mom handpicked are such a beauty. Two of them are set on opposite sides of the door, one is placed near my desk, and the other two are next to the changing room, enlivening the place beautifully.
“Maybe sometime in the future, but for now, we are good.” I simply shrug. I will definitely need a bigger space at some point, but right now, the idea of parting with this place leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
“I’ve been working on our store website. The online sales for our co-ord sets seem to have picked up.”
“That’s awesome. I think we can also bring in a fresh fusion wear collection,” I beam as I turn my attention back to the laptop.
“It’s going to be a killer.” Giving me a thumbs up, she then adds, “Hey, I was thinking about leaving early today. I have a girls’ night planned with my college friends.”
I look up from my laptop and give her a warm smile. “Sure. What time do you wish to leave?”
Looking at the wall clock that says six in the evening, she replies, “I was hoping to leave right away.”
“Sounds good. The way you overwork, you certainly deserve a break. Don’t worry. I have got this covered.”
“Are you sure you don’t mind?” She raises her eyebrow.
“Of course, I am. It’s only an hour early. It’s no big deal. And I’ve been handling the workload alone for more than months, so trust me when I say, I’ve got this. Now go enjoy. Also take tomorrow off, too.” I give her an assuring smile.
“A day off? That also on a Saturday which is our busiest day of the week?” She blinks rapidly at me and then looks at me with a flustered expression as she leans forward. “Have you hired my replacement, by any chance?”
I laugh and shake my head. “No way. I can’t get a better replacement than you. The only reason I am giving you an off tomorrow is I can bet my last penny that you will wake up with a shitty hangover.”
“Guilty as charged,” she says with a grin on her face.
“Now get going.”
“You are my favourite, for sure.” She winks at me as she grabs her purse and walks out of the door before waving me bye.
I huff and get back to my work. But the isolation gets on to me, as usual, and unwarranted thoughts start playing havoc in my mind, which begins to wander.
I’ve been back in Mumbai for just over four months now, and every single minute of every day has been a blessing. I’m out of a dysfunctional relationship, and I know I should be thankful for that. Yet,the ache in my chest refuses to go.It would be easy if I just pretend that he doesn’t exist, but I can’t make my stupid heart come to terms with it. He has left a hole in my heart, which may never heal. It’s empty, and the excruciating pain I feel each time I recollect that horrid night is a hellish experience, but at least it’s not filled with his love garbage anymore.
