The Weight of Expectations

                                        

                                              
Vote kardo guys!!! 
The Singhania mansion buzzed with activity the morning after the grand dinner. Sunlight streamed through the ornate windows, and the fragrance of fresh roses lingered in the air, remnants of the previous night’s success. Priya Singhania was in the drawing room, sipping her morning tea, her face glowing with pride as she recalled the compliments they’d received about the event.  
Rashi walked in quietly, her saree perfectly draped, exuding an air of calm efficiency. She carried a tray of tea and biscuits, setting it on the table before Priya.  
Priya with a warm smile “Beta, last night was perfect. Everyone couldn’t stop praising the arrangements. You’ve truly outdone yourself.”  
Rashi said “I’m glad you were pleased, Ma. That’s all that matters.”  
Priya patting her hand “You’re more than just a daughter-in-law to this family, Rashi. You’ve become its backbone.”  
Raj walked in at that moment, his phone in hand, his tie slightly askew from his rushed morning routine. He overheard Priya’s words and paused briefly. His eyes flicked to Rashi, and for a moment, an unreadable expression crossed his face.  
Raj comes and clean his throat “Looks like I missed the morning appreciation session.”  
Priya laughs lightly “Oh, don’t tease. You should be grateful. Rashi has taken care of everything in your absence.”  
Raj said in casual tone “Well, that’s what a Singhania daughter-in-law is supposed to do, right?”  
Rashi glanced at him, her expression composed, though his words stung.  
Rashi softly said “I’m happy to help, Ma.”  
Raj didn’t respond, instead pouring himself a cup of tea and focusing on his phone. Priya watched the interaction, her brows knitting slightly, sensing the tension but choosing not to comment.  
Just then, Kartik strolled in, his usual cheerful demeanor lightening the atmosphere.  
Kartik grinning “Good morning, family! Did I hear someone say ‘perfect’? Must be about Rashi again.”  
Priya chuckling “Of course. Who else?”  
Kartik: (sitting beside Rashi) “Seriously, Bhabhi, you’ve set such high standards, the rest of us are going to look incompetent.”  
Rashi: (smiling) “You’re exaggerating, Bhai.”  
Kartik: (teasing) “Not at all. Even Samaira would agree.”  
The mention of Samaira brought a sudden warmth to the room. The youngest Singhania sibling, Samaira had left the family home at 17 to pursue her dreams and lived independently since. Though they spoke often, her absence was deeply felt by her brothers and now by Rashi, who admired her strength and free spirit.  
Priya: (fondly) “Speaking of Samaira, she called her dad last night after the dinner. She wanted to know how everything went.”  
Kartik: (pulling out his phone) “Let’s call her now. It’s been too long since I heard her voice.”  
Raj: (without looking up) “She’s probably busy. You know how she gets.”  
Kartik: (ignoring him) “Nonsense. She’ll pick up for me.”  
Kartik dialed her number, putting the phone on speaker. After a few rings, a cheerful voice answered.  
Samaira: “Good morning, Kartik Bhai! Missing me already?”