Some time later

Half an hour later, I stood in front of my mirror, admiring my new pink kurta. It was a beautiful garment, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement as I anticipated the prospect of a date. It had been years since I had gone out with someone, and the idea of feeling desired again was intoxicating.

Alok had never really taken me out after we got married, preferring to focus on his career instead. But now, with Raghav Ji's invitation, I felt a renewed sense of femininity and confidence. I knew that what I was doing might be considered immoral, but at that moment, I didn't care. Nothing was going on between Raghav Ji and her and nothing will happen. All I wanted was to feel like a woman again, to be appreciated and valued for more than just being a dutiful wife.

After giving myself one final look in the mirror, I turned around and left the room.

As I stood in front of the grocer, directing the shopkeeper to weigh the vegetables precisely, I couldn't help but feel the heat of the day pressing down on me. I had wrapped my salwar around my head to shield myself from the sun's rays, but the humidity was still overwhelming. Despite the uncomfortable conditions, I focused on selecting the freshest produce, determined to finish my shopping quickly.

Just as I was nearing the end of my errands, I felt someone poke my arm. Startled and slightly annoyed, I turned around to see Raghav Ji standing behind me, a wide smile on his face.

Raghav Ji smiled warmly as he approached me, his cotton shirt a stark contrast to the heat of the day. "It's sweltering out here," he remarked, handing me a bottle of cool water. "Don't get dehydrated."

I accepted the water gratefully, taking a long sip before turning back to the grocer. After a brief exchange, the vegetables were finally packaged and priced. Reaching for my purse, I prepared to pay, but Raghav Ji was quicker. Before I could even open my wallet, he had already settled the bill.

"Raghav Ji, why did you pay?" I asked, surprised by his gesture. His response was smooth and confident. "No problem, you can pay me back by letting me be your driver today."

I laughed, both amused and flattered by his offer. "Of course Bhai Saab how can I refuse such a bigshot as my driver."

Without missing a beat, Raghav Ji scooped up the bags of groceries and gestured towards a nearby parking area. "The car's just over there," he said, clearly expecting me to follow.

As we arrived at Raghav Ji's car, I watched as he carefully placed the groceries in the back seat. He then opened the front passenger door for me, and I slid into the comfortable leather interior. Before he could assist me further, I had already fastened my seatbelt, earning a smile from Raghav Ji.

"Seems like Bhabhi Ji has learned," he teased, settling into the driver's seat himself.

"Of course, Bhai Saab," I replied, my tone playful. "I wouldn't want to add to your workload."

The playful banter continued as Raghav Ji joked about being my driver. "Well then, as your driver, where should I take you?"

I couldn't help but enjoy the role-play, and with a mischievous grin, I responded, "Driver Ji, I am hungry. Take me to a restaurant."

Raghav Ji's laughter filled the car as he played along with our little role-play. "Of course, Mem Saab! I know just the place to satisfy your appetite." With a confident smile, he started the engine and steered us towards the affluent part of the city that I had rarely visited.

As we drove, Raghav Ji acted as a tour guide, pointing out various landmarks and sharing tidbits about the area. It was fascinating to learn about the opulent neighborhoods and their history. Before I knew it, we had arrived in front of an elegant café, its exterior exuding an air of luxury and sophistication.

We both got out of the car, and I couldn't help but feel a touch of apprehension as I looked at the expensive establishment. Turning to Raghav Ji, I mentioned that I hadn't brought much money with me. His response was immediate and reassuring. "Don't worry about that, Bhabhi Ji. Today, you won't have to pay for anything."

With that, Raghav Ji escorted me into the café.