An Indian Wife

It was a hot summer afternoon. I was on my way from the vegetable market. I was carrying multiple polythene bags in my hands. My green salwar kameez was soaked in the sweltering afternoon heat. The road was empty without even a single passerby.

Suddenly I heard a car honk from behind. I quickly moved to the side of the road. The car instead of continuing on its way stopped beside me. The front door opened and a familiar face got down.

"Arey Bhabhi Ji , let me help." It was Raghav Ji my husband's boss.

"Raghav Ji there is no need for you to stop to help me. I was managing perfectly fine. My house is just around the corner. "

Before I could react he already had pulled the bags from my hand. While putting the grocery bags on the backseat he said," Arey Bhabhi Ji , how can I allow you to carry such heavy bags in this blistering heat. Let me give you a lift to your home."

Hearing his words initially I wanted to refute his offer , but considering he is my husband's boss I agreed and sat on the front seat.

"Bhabhi Ji, let me help you with the seat belts." I politely tried to fend him off, insisting that I could manage, but Raghav Ji, oblivious to my unease, persisted. With a nervous laugh, I finally relented, allowing him to assist. With a patient smile, he reached over and gently guided the strap into the buckle, clicking it securely into place.

I could smell the lavender flavor of his cologne. He was uncomfortably close to me. Instead of returning to his position I felt him taking a sniff. Shocked I pushed him away and said, " Raghav Ji, you are too close. You are making me uncomfortable. Please get back to your own seat." He smiled sheepishly, offering me a small apology. I gave him an apologetic nod and we continued on our way.

On the way we talked about a variety of topics from sports to bollywood. His voice was soft and soothing. In contrast to his imposing physical presence, his eyes were warm and gentle. I understood why my husband always praised him. He was a very charismatic guy.

We finally reached my house. He helped me unload the groceries. In common courtesy I offered him chai but he refused citing lack of time. On the way to his car he suddenly stopped and turned around.

"Bhabhi Ji I always admired your fashion sense. You always look so put together," Raghav Ji remarked, a genuine smile on his face. Flattered, I thanked him, feeling a sense of pride in my fashion choices. Raghav Ji then hesitantly mentioned his wife's upcoming birthday, admitting he struggled with picking out the perfect dress for her. "I was wondering if you could help me choose something for her. I trust your taste," he said earnestly.

I was taken aback by his request. Initially I wanted to directly deny his request but thinking about my husband I told him that I will think about it. Finally he left and I was alone.

As the sun began to set, I hurried to finish the day's chores. I made sure to complete all the cooking, wanting a delicious meal ready for my husband when he returned from the office. With swift and practiced movements, I tidied up the house, ensuring everything was spotless. I took a moment to arrange fresh flowers, adding a touch of beauty to our home. As the time approached for his arrival, I quickly freshened up, changing into a lovely sari and putting on some subtle jewelry.

When my husband walked through the door, I greeted him with a warm smile, ready to welcome him home after his long day at work.