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wilcze-kudly · 7 months

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The Gaang being 'bad parents' didn't ruin their characters.

I've seen this argument tossed around a couple times and it's honestly one of my least favourite criticisms of lok.

Katara (and Sokka but we have no confirmed kids for him, which seems unrealistic with how much game he had) lost their mother as children and their father was forced to abandon them when they were barely starting their teens. They were raised by their grandmother with little to no peers of their own age.

Aang did not know his parents and a huge chunk of his childhood was him being groomed into taking up the mantle of the avatar and mastering airbending. He also was isolated from other kids his age. His closest parental figure was Gyatso who was more of a teacher than a father. Also the Air Nomads were literally wiped out so that adds to the trauma pile.

I really don't think i have to talk about Zuko's family life here, but at least he had relatively positive parental figures in the form of Ursa (though i do have a burning personal dislike of ursa) and Iroh. Despite this his struggle around the subject of his family and his trauma relating to his upbringing was a focal point of his character arc.

Toph was raised in isolation by her asshole abelist parents who did not listen to her, sent people to capture and bring her back and then disowned her. (If my cursory understanding of 'the rift' is correct, I need to actually read it because i am unreasonably obsessed with the Beifong family.)

Where, pray tell, were they supposed to learn proper parenting skills? On their brief stint as child soldiers? While fighting a war as literal children?

There is the argument that they must've matured later in their lives, of course. But you can only recover so much from copious amounts of childhood trauma.

Being a bad parent doesn't necessarily make you a bad person. Sure it makes you a failure in an incredibly delicate and important aspect of human life but it doesn't make you a bad person. And saying that it does takes a lot of nuance out of the conversation.

Like, do you know how easy it is to fuck up a child?

Especially that the ways the members of the Gaang 'fucked up' as parents feel mostly in character.

Bumi was going to face some struggles with self worth due to being the firstborn child of the Avatar and arguably one of the most powerful waterbenders in history, while being a nonbender himself. That much was unavoidable, no matter how his parents approached the issue.

And Aang was obviously going to be over the moon when Tenzin was born. Think about it. He's literally the last of his people. He has no one else 'like him'. No one else to pass down the traditions, the teachings that Gyatso and everyone else he cared about and who were horrifically murdered to. Aang is getting older and he feels like his culture and history and his entire life before he got trapped in that damned iceberg will die along with him. And then Tenzin is born and Tenzin can take up the mantle that had been thrust upon Aang.

I'm going to withhold my judgement on Izumi and Zuko, since we barely know anything about them. She seems well adjusted but that's all i can say right now. But Zuko has also been shown to be extremely, painfully aware of how fucked up his family is and has clearly been putting in a lot of work to unscrew what his ancestors have screwed up.

Toph situation feels very tragic to me,because it's obvious that she thought she thought she was doing better than her parents. She gave her daughters the freedom to do what they want, to not feel opressed and trapped like she had. How was she supposed to know that she was making her girls feel like she didn't love them? (Here's another post of mine about the Beifong family and how they just feel like they're cursed or something at this point.)

TLDR; I get annoyed by people saying that the Gaang being 'bad parents' ruined their characters, because to me it felt like it actually enhanced them.

Neither Aang nor Toph acted out of malice or a lack of love. On the contrary, Toph was trying not to repeat her parents mistakes, accidentally committing a bunch of her own. While Aang probably didn't even realise that he was neglecting Kya and Bumi.

But just loving your children doesn't always make you a good parent.

I think these flaws only add to them as characters. It makes them feel more real.

It's unrealistic and, frankly, just plain boring to go 'oh the Gaang were all good people so they would be good parents too.'

The Gaang were a gaggle of traumatised children forced into saving the world, because the adults around them failed them, that then grew into traumatised adults who have no idea how to be good parents.

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darkacademiaposts · 2 years

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Delia Owens, Where the Crawdads Sing

#delia owens #where the crawdads sing #kya clark #dark academia #dark academia quotes #literature #literary fiction #quotes #writing #book quotes #taylor swift #carolina #taylor swift carolina

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stardust948 · 7 months

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A prompt: Hakoda meets his grandchild, the first steambaby

Sequel to She Lives In You

The Fire Nation had strange traditions and customs.

Some more strange than others.

Hakoda tried his best to adhere to them for his daughter and son-in-law's sake, but this one was far more aggravating than strange. His spiraling thoughts were interrupted by Suki's light laughter.

"You two are going to wear down a trough at this rate."

"We can't help it!" Sokka said as he continued to pace. "Katara said the seventh night right? I heard seventh night."

"I should have been there with her." Hakoda muttered while pacing in the opposite direction.

"And this is," Sokka counted on his fingers. "Four, six, seven! The seventh night!!!"

"What if something went wrong?"

"Guys!" Suki waved her hands. "Everything's fine. Katara and Zuko have the best healers at their disposal. Besides, if something was wrong, they would have told us by now."

"She right. Our lovely grandchild is in the best of hands." Iroh said while pouring more tea. "Though I do agree the wait is maddening."

Hakoda and Sokka shared a concerned look.

Suki laughed again then beckoned them to sit down.

"C'mon before you form a hole right through the floor."

Defeated, the father and son joined the others at the table. Hakoda massaged his aching head. He swore the past couple of days added several new gray strands of hair to his already graying head. Iroh placed a cup in front of him.

"Mint tea for the nerves."

Hakoda quietly thanked him and took a sip. It did help. Somewhat.

"Wow Dad, I've never seen you this nervous." Sokka said.

Hakoda grunted.

"Gran-Gran said he acted like this when you and Katara were born too." Suki said. "Actually did wear a trough through the snow."

Hakoda downed his tea, then placed his cup down firmer than he meant to.

"Don't you two dare make me wait this long. Understand?"

Iroh laughed as Sokka placed a hand on Suki's baby bump.

"Promise."

Just then the door swinged open. Hakoda and Sokka were first on their feet followed by Iroh, who was still quite nimble in his old age. But instead of the royal couple or a heralder, two out of breath figures ran into the room.

"We're here! We made it!" Aang panted.

"Aw man it's just you guys." Sokka said disappointedly.

"Good to see you too Snoozels." Toph shot back. "We would have been here on time but someone took forever shaving."

Aang sheepishly rubbed his freshly cleaned head. "I wanted to make a good first impression."

Hakoda resumed pacing as the pleasantries continued. He was glad to see Aang and Toph of course. But they were down to the bare minutes now.

The doors opened again. This time, a royal heralder entered. Everyone jumped up immediately.

"Esteemed family of Firelord Zuko and Royal Consort Master Katara, my I present to you," He glanced down at the scroll. "Princess-"

"Wait, I want to tell them." Katara said from behind as she and Zuko walked in decked in flowing white robes and cradling a small bundle.

The poor heralder was practically shoved aside as the family crowded around the royal couple.

"Let us see!"

"She's so tiny!"

"Give them some breathing room!"

Zuko eventually got them to settle down some by promising there was enough time for everyone to meet the new princess. Katara unwrapped her face and gently handed her to Hakoda. He couldn't take his eyes off the baby. Her soft brown skin and curious golden eyes warmed his heart.

"She's so precious..."

"Dad. " Katara said somewhat nervously. "Meet Kya."

The room fell into bittersweet silent as each person took in the gravity and importance of the news. The baby smiled and gurgled; eyes holding a sparkle Kya's used to. Long awaited tears trickled down Hakoda's face as he gazed at his granddaughter.

"Thank you."

___

Thanks for the prompt ❤️

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steveandbuckysdaughter · 1 month

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since you talked about Izumi in some of your posts (like Dad!Zuko and Mom!Mai and their “conquering Ba Sing Se adventure”) and the Hou-Tong/Izumi beef, I was wondering if you were open to make Gaang kids headcanons.

and if you were, can I request Kya and Izumi headcanons on their friendship etc?

Ok so, anon refers to this post and this other post in the ask, FYI.

But yes, I absolutely am down to make adult gaang/Gaang kids’ headcanons of any kind. So if y’all want any headcanon of that kind feel free to send an anon!

Anyway, back to the ask. I absolutely love the potential of Kya and Izumi’s dynamic. But since I love angst, here’s some little HCs with p a i n.

Izumi and Kya are roughly the same age, maybe Izumi is a year older than Kya.

Ever since they could sit straight, they’ve been inseparable. And as kids, with the republic city construction, they used to be constantly together

I headcanon that Izumi was more responsible and protective of Kya, while Kya saw Izumi as her idol, because you know, pretty firebending princess who punches everyone who looks at Kya the wrong way

I also like to think that Izumi was Kya’s gay awakening in her teens, but never acted on it because Izumi was straight and uninterested. Also, I HC that Izumi had a thing with Bumi, but that’s another story

Anyways. Since Izumi most likely had Iroh at like, 20, Kya would always hang out with Iroh as his fun aunt, doing mischief around etc.

But, and let’s go to the angsty part, I also HC that Kya and Izumi kind of began losing contact once 30s approached. Because you know, Kya was always traveling, and Izumi had crown princess duties to partake in.

Also, given that Zuko was Fire Lord and kind of not as involved in republic city as he used to be, the FN royal family did not hang out with the rest of the gaang as often, and Izumi ended up being often excluded from the drama etc. nothing unfixable, but stuff that definitely hurt Izumi.

I also feel like Izumi (and parents) was always invited to all of the gaang’s and their kids’ milestones, like weddings, ceremonies etc.

And when in 158AG Sokka died protecting Korra, Zuko and Izumi were at the funeral despite their problems in the fire nation.

But, and here we reach the most angsty part, a year later it was Mai who died, of an illness that had taken her like, five years prior. Of course Zuko and Izumi were distraught, and asked Katara, Toph and the others to attend.

But the day of the funeral, only Katara showed up. Because Bumi was in the United forces, Kya couldn’t interrupt her spiritual travels, Tenzin had a heavily pregnant Pema at home, Lin was working, Suyin was just up in her business in Zaofu and Toph was nowhere to be found.

This made Zuko very sad, but Izumi? She was furious. Absolutely furious. Because, how could they miss the one time they needed to be there for her after all the times she had gone out of her way to support them?

And especially, Izumi felt betrayed by Kya, for not even passing by or answering back to the news. So Izumi kind of ghosted and stopped talking with everyone.

The first time she saw any of the Gaang kids was during Kuvira’s storyline. And even then, as cold as ice

So I kind of headcanon that Korra had some business to do in the fire nation and the gang kids tagged along, and kind of had a some of fight with Izumi about her ghosting them and them never visiting

Izumi would be the most angry and hurt with Kya, and they would kind of be angry with each other for the entirety of the storyline

But then by the end, they would have an actual talk and begin speaking to each other again

So yeah, happy ending but TONS of angst. I know right? Amazing❤️

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hummingintheback · 19 days

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Had this Kyalin fic idea wherein the reason kya and lin doesn't interact is that there was a major fall out or unresolved incident that happened to them when they were young. Also, I know Kya approached Lin one time, trying to sort out things but only end up bursting like volcanoes, and then it got worse. Kya would definitely be the one to chase Lin around, trying to talk to her when they are in one room but would just stop and turn around. And Lin will absolutely regret holding on her grudges.

I don't know if someone already made this cuz obv I haven't read a fic which basically have this plot.

#kyalin #kya ii #lin beifong #writing ideas #make them endgame idc #kyalinbrainrot #angst with a happy ending

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hum-suffer · 21 days

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Bhai I've seen the low contact high romance era of Wattpad aur aaj kal ka sab is so weird 💀💀 like

I've been at: (his head in her lap after a long day)(him defending her against some assholes)(hand holding when one of them is scared and the other is SUPER surprised and basically melts because of hand holding)

Aur ye Aaj kal ka: (obsessed with her, kills her possible partner)(she is submissive to his family)(his friends become her devars)

Sala ye difference seems like such a leap 😭 especially the outlandish things like omggggg he's a CEO, omgggg she's an assassin, omgggg he has a PET LION?

#look im not bashing you #but mere dost yaar kya hai ye behaviour #pls realise you're writing toxic relationships #desiblr #suffer ye suhana nahi #desi tumblr

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orangepanic · 9 months

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I just want one fic where Asami's young parents interact with the rest of the Gaang kids for no other reason than to see Tenzin and Izumi stand by with horrified dignity as everyone else gets absolutely shitfaced together. You can't convince me the Satos weren't the life of every party they ever set foot in and that Lin, Bumi, and Kya weren't like "cheers to that!"

Ten bottles of champagne and a lot of questionable decisions later no one but Lin is fully-clothed. Bumi has passed out face-down on the lawn with his pants around his ankles after trying to moon the giant statue of Aang. Only Kya seemed to have made it to her own bed. Hiroshi and Yasuko made it to a bed, not theirs, and are snoring loudly in a tangle of arms and legs. Tenzin slept on his own couch.

Izumi never sets foot in the United Republic again. Tenzin takes one look at Bumi's grass-covered ass and wishes he could bleach his eyes. To Lin, the mortified expression on his face as they leave is well worth the hangover.

#tlok #gaang kids #tenzin #bumi ii #kya #lin beifong #hiroshi sato #yasuko sato #drabble #someone write this #princess izumi

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marciaillust · 1 year

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so like uh. uhh. superhero/journalist au revamped

#2023 the year of tcm im telling you #taking a little break from drawing the dj #BRO I CANT BELIEVE I NEVER POSTED THE SHITTY OG SKETCHES #there were soooo many #i am certain i posted the witch au so why not the superhero au #OR maybe i did post it and i just cant find them?? anyway #my friend showed me this artist that i have become low key obsessed with dan mora #also the same friend may or may not be wiritng a tcm fic for me. tee hee. :^) my birthday is in march yay #ANYWAY the au. it started out pretty simple #orion is a journalist and garret is a lone wolf superhero and stuff happens!#stuff that i cant talk about because the subject matter is way too close to spoilers for the actual tcm #but lets just say orion wants the scoop to write his articles but Red Wing doesnt want his identity revealed #shenanigans ensue #I CANT WAIT FOR THE FIC KYA #my best friend being an excellent writer is the BEST thing that happened to me in my whole life fr #their stuff is always so top notch #soon to be published best selling uk author fr #after they get the doctorate #can you believe it doctorate #holy wow #ok tags #tcm #the clockmaster #sketches #superhero au

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ramayantika · 16 days

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Sometimes I am this very bossy, busy, ambitiously driven woman juggling a hundred different things that I want to do and be good at and then at night when I speak to him I feel like a soft flower who can rest and then start the next day with the golden sunshine

#samridhi speaks #ashuuuuuu #eager to write a few smol poems to him but rn I have exams to focus on #🧿🧿🧿🧿#also he is such a green forest #so understanding loving and tender #sometimes I think kya punya kiye jo yeh mila #low key want to tell my mother about him but first gotta break the news to my twin brother #and then to my mother #like once mumma is confident about him she will adore him too just like I do #also I learn so much from him #this post is so sweet like chasni but God I will be cringe because prem rog

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msbhagirathi · 26 days

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A Note On Some Things From Episode 2

1. Expressions :

I don't have words to describe the magic, that these two bunch of talents (Mr. BS & Mrs. SI), have casted on us through their soulful portrayal of Arnav and Khushi.

They have often bragged about being able to do the scenes easily without any visible discomfort because of their heartfelt friendship. But, let's also not forget the professionalism that they showed while performing the initial scenes. Because friendship between all the star cast came later on, as they kept shooting.

There were the initial scenes, for example the first scene of Arnav with his Di, on the stage or the dori scenes with Khushi, were the first, the very first of Barun's scene with Dalljeet and Sanaya. In an interview, it was mentioned that he was a very shy person at first. But, still he didn't let the awkwardness of not knowing them properly, affect his scenes with them. (I know that's the job of an actor but still it is indeed difficult to maintain it.) I am sure, the same must have happened with everyone else as well, and Kudos to the whole team for maintaining the work ethics. Such level of professionalism! Wow!

The scene, where, on hearing Di's voice, on the stage, Arnav turns back and smiles at his Di. That's so natural. Like, you can see that he is surprised to see her there, but also kind of 'I knew it!'.

Hehehe. Lol. I didn't do much mehnat in to this, this time. Hope you don't mind. :')

Yeah, so my point is just look at his (positively)delicious face look at the smooth change of expressions. The transition from being irritated to surprised to some more surprised to something akin to 'I knew, it would be you!'

And how did I forget to mention our beloved 'Dolly' here [ ;)] yeah, Anjali Di's inviting and warm smile, made us feel like "I wish I had an elder sister like her."

And the brilliance and brutality of Arnav, in the dori scene, with Khushi, being all scared, nervous and trying to convince the people around her that she is innocent. I don't know 'bout you but I definitely felt so desperate to go inside the screen and yell at those assholes (Arnav included.) to stop harassing her. And, I remember I was so so so so like so shocked so horrified, so much so that my heart started beating faster.

So.

Hmm.

Am I evil enough to give you a snippet of this scene?

Absolutely, not.

No.

NO.

NEVER.

DO YOU THINK I AM THAT EVIL!?!?

Okay, coming to this scene. This is just one of the many scenes where Sanaya literally gave out her soul. The Infamous Dori Scene.

The horror, the panic, the trembling lips and the realization that her back is exposed and that she has to cover it. Although, Arnav wasn't looking at there but when she slapped away her hair (can't find any other term coz week inglis.) he definitely looked at her long, black, straight -kind of - beautiful hair (or rather hair extension. Lol. I am kidding, ok? Sanaya's hair is indeed beautiful.)

The turning back and taking a look at his face to gauge his reaction, the tears and the way she flees away, everything is just- *chef's kiss*

2. Arnav's 'Triggered' Moment

When I was watching this, I wondered what did actually happen here?

Do you ever have this moment when you feel you are SO angry that your body starts shaking with rage? You can feel your body getting all worked up, heat simmering up to your ears and you almost see red?

You are so angry that you are not even thinking anything, you just do whatever comes to your mind, without giving it a second thought. You speak without thinking, the extent to which your words might hurt someone. Although, it may last a few seconds but is powerful enough to engulf you wholly.

And what happens when you calm down? You almost feel as if your body has gone limp, after all that rage. Your hands and legs feel weak and wobbly. Your stomach feels like someone churned it, with one hard smack. You come back to yourself. You return back to where you were, before you'd got triggered like that. And how often does this happen to you? Very rare. Depends on the situation as well.

But, guess what, this type of anger comes to Arnav, as naturally as breathing. Sad. But, true. I am not justifying what he did to Khushi, here, I am just giving an insight as to how he feels every time someone, more or less accidently, reminds him of his trauma.

This is, exactly what happens, with Arnav, each time, he is 'triggered'.

And that is why he needs serious therapy. Mental and emotional healing. Being with the right person still might not guarantee one's healing. A trauma, as deep as his, needs serious treatment.

He doesn't like to go back to his past. It makes him feel weak and vulnerable. Although it's very natural to feel so. But, he CANNOT--WILL NOT let himself, be in that type of a situation ever again, where he does not have the upper hand.

And, hence, whenever someone or Khushi (mostly Khushi, I think.) unknowingly triggers him, he has the worst reaction to it. He gets so livid, where he feels the need to 'punish' that person. He feels the need to make that person realize what a grave mistake they have committed, albeit unintentionally.

So, maybe when he sees her tear-stricken face, he jolts out of that state and thinks out of all the kind of reactions that he knew, he hadn't expected it to be this.

And so, he is -kind of- shocked, that maybe, this girl is not, whom he had thought her to be.

Therefore, he let's it pass, to be what it was, a mistake.

3. Marriage, Dowry and The Society

In today's world, getting married is just another grand event and not something directly related to one's 'honor'. ( I feel like I am writing an essay for some school's essay writing competition. Lol.)

But, back then, this was not the case. A broken marriage or even getting divorced used to be look down upon, like some kind of disgrace or 'curse' for that family and their 'honor'. And accepting dowry was just as normal as accepting gifts from someone (anyone).

The sheer audacity of the boy's family for asking it after imposing most of the financial burden on the girl's family. As if, they are doing some kind of favor to them by getting their SON married to their daughter. You see what I did there?

That's the thing. The inequality. It SO gets on my nerves, every time I think about the inequality, the patriarchy. The superiority complex & the inferiority complex. The misogyny. The chauvinism. UGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Ok so, that is it, then. I will add if I find something else. Bye, then. Have a great day/night ahead. God bless you.

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nyamadermont · 5 months

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Moonsigns, chapters 1-3

@slowdissolve and I took our @linbeifongsweek prompt and have started adjusting it for life on AO3.

Drop by for an old-fashioned post-cannon get-together Kyalin story:

#kyalin #lin beifong #kya ii #slowdissolve’s writing #nyama’s longer stories

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stardust948 · 1 month

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~*~

Kya turned to Ursa. “Please wait in the hall.”

Ursa let out a low guttural growl that sent a chill down Kya's spine.

“Why do I need to leave?” she asked lowly.

Kya's healer mode turned back on. It wasn't the first time she dealt with unruly loved ones of patients.

“To lower the risk of contamination." she said firmly. "I can help your husband but I’m gonna need you to cooperate first.”

Ursa bristled. “He’s my mate. I didn't bring you to my private home to make demands. I brought you here to heal him!”

"I know, but-"

"But what?! Are you trying to separate us?! I won't allow it!"

"Ursa...please..." Ozai rasped.

She bowed her head and squeezed his hand tighter.

“Your mate’s in good hands." Kya said softly. "I promise.”

~*~

#ao3 fic #atla #atla au #dragon au #dragon ursa #ursa #ozai #kya #urzai #brave is the heart that loves #fanfic update #star's writing

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jalebi-weds-bluetooth · 11 months

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IPKKND OS: Lonely In A Crowd

TW: None

Genre: Family, Drama, Angst

Payal Gupta rarely worked a sweat over fashion. If it was simple, felt soft and didn’t require an instruction manual to wear, it was enough. But ever since Khushi informed that Arnav hosted a party for her and Akash, Payal couldn’t think straight.

Although she never had the chance of actually mingling with the Raizadas in their social circle - she still remembered the outfits worn during Anjali’s anniversary. Payal hesitated, Shyam’s secret sat like a deadweight in her mind. She just knew that she and Akash couldn’t be happy because their foundation was based on a truth she and her family hid.

“Jiji!” A flash of gold and pink broke Payal out of her thoughts. Bless her sister for actually finding a saree good enough to wear at a Raizada party.

“You’ll look like a Raees-zada in this saree Jiji. It really looks like gold is stitched in.” Khushi fussed over Payal, checking the sequenced pallu against her shoulder. Payal smiled, the outfit was something she would never wear on any occasion but then this wasn’t any other occasion. She would have to dress up as much as she could.

“Thank you Khushi!” Payal kissed Khushi’s cheek and began dressing up. Despite all the assurances, it was evident to Khushi that Payal was bothered. Who wouldn’t be? It was Arnav Singh Raizada’s party. It’s a surprise the location wasn’t Hell.

Well it was his office. And going by her experience it offered no less than eternal damnation.

Khushi looked at her phone, the poor Nokia crushing in her grip. Then she took a deep breath. Even though she had tried ten times to convince the Laad Governor that Payal was as far from his snobby society as jalebi from achaar, she should call him again.

– – – – –

“Laad Governor!” Payal laughed, wondering what pissed Khushi off now.

“I told him a billion times-”

“-two times,” Payal checked Khushi’s exaggeration, “Jiji, have you ever tried to say anything to the Laad Governor? Something he wouldn’t want to hear!” Khushi huffed.

“Actually I did. About the working conditions in his office.” Payal pointed out, testing the gloss on her lips. Khushi blinked, how did Payal not scheme his torture plan then? Not that Khushi had anything detailed like bleaching all his black coloured shirts and making him sit in a twelve hour puja in a stiff kurta pajama with nothing cool to drink.

So how was it possible that after a conversation with Arnav Singh Raizada, Payal hadn’t planned an elaborate scheme to simply send the exasperating man to another planet? Khushi could bet he’d be far more comfortable and find more in common with aliens than his own species. Maybe he’d terrify them as well with his what the as well.

Also, how did Arnav not send a fifty page letter to Payal highlighting ‘what the’ and ‘how dare you’ about her aukaad in trying to teach him about working conditions?

“Maybe he knew you were Akash ji’s setting.” Khushi mused. Payal responded by throwing a pillow smack on Khushi’s face.

“Try talk-”

“I DID!”

“Oh really? Between using NK ji as a buffer and making fun of what a cocktail party is, when did you talk to him?” Payal pointed out. Khushi opened her mouth to argue but she had nothing else to say. Begrudgingly she had to admit that Payal was right. She never tried to honestly talk to him. Playing dumb charades and singing the praises of jalebis are not “please understand Jiji needs a comfortable environment where she - and Khushi - are not intimidated by everything”.

Agreed, it would mean baring her deepest insecurities to man who trampled her heart-

Khushi bit her tongue at the offending thought. When, where and why did that flare up! Perhaps Devi Maiyya was punishing her for not trying her best for Payal.

And despite Arnav’s eternal scowl, he had proved that with an honest conversation he’d give his best.

It’s literally how Akash and Payal’s marriage was happening!

With a big sigh, she called him.

– – – – –

65 minutes later

“I agree, my recommendations for a jalebi stall wasn’t the best but he knew! He knew I would be uncomfortable. Kyunki he himself said - uncomfortable feel karogi? I told Jiji that Laad Governor must’ve been born after a hundred rakshas died but no, she’s barely a Raizada and she forgot her sister of 20 years for a guy she knows for 20 days. I will not go, not over my dead body!” Khushi yelled at the steaming hot jalebi and stuffed it in her mouth.

At this point she didn’t even know what she was angry about. That he cut the call on her, refused to understand her or knowingly didn’t invite her.

It was her sister damn it! Angry, Khushi stuffed another jalebi. She was now speaking like him!

“Haye re Nandkisore, why are you eating these half cooked ja-”

“TOH KYA? You will also uninvite me from this house like that Laad Governor? Should I stop making jalebis here? Am I so bad? I love parties! I love dancing! I wanted to go there so bad but jaaye meri jooti! Why does everyone always yell at me? Why doesn’t anyone love me-” Khushi sniffled. Madhumati was rarely ever surprised, but Khushi’s sudden outburst caught her off guard.

“Nobody yells at you Tital-”

“HAWW EVERYONE DOES!” Khushi sobbed, blowing her nose into Madhumati’s pallu. Madhumati bit back a smile, turned off the stove and led Khushi to the sofa. At times like this it felt like Khushi didn’t grow a year over eight.

“You were just about to yell at me for leaving Jiji alone…” Khushi accused.

“Haan, but I like your tactic. You yelled at me so much that I forgot what I had to say Nandkisore!” She grinned as Khushi pouted.

“But maybe I shouldn’t have left Jiji alone, she was sounding so off on the phone!”

“But Titaliya, Payaliya needs to learn how to be a part of the society.” Madhumati advised.

“But-”

“No buts! Now let me speak Nandkisore! See, she knew Akash babua comes from a different world. And Akash babua knows ours, so she needs to know his. And knowing you, you wouldn’t have just accompanied Payaliya like a good girl because what is Titaliya without dramatics? Toh accha hua that you didn’t go with her. Akash babua is there with her na.” Madhumati patted her shoulder.

Khushi nodded and switched on the television. Perhaps Buaji was right. But the fear sat in the pit of her stomach. She didn’t want Jiji to be in a space where no one else was like her.

Hey Devi Maiyya, let this be a wonderful party for Jiji!

– – –

It was the most intimidating experience of Payal’s life. The cold drink had gone warm in her hands, and Akash’s palm had long slipped out of hers. She knew she made a mistake the minute she stepped in because no one wore a saree.

The hair piece felt too glittery and she was sure her kajal was too thick.

No one in the party spoke in Hindi. And to make it worse, she was sure everyone checked out her embellished saree at least once.

“Payal ji, are you ok?” Akash returned back to her, and like a balm soothed all her worries. But maybe it was love? For when she reassured him and he left to get another drink, the crowd left her cold.

So far any attempt at getting food was embarrassing. Her appetiser had slipped off the toothpick once and she didn’t realise entree didn’t mean starters. It meant main dish. And while she understood English perfectly well, the embarrassment of mispronouncing Givenchy was enough.

Akash had smoothed things, chuckling how every fashion brand had one motto - to give the weirdest spellings to trick consumers - but it did nothing to quell her discomfort. Half of the conversations around her were a blurred paragraph of ‘fashion, business’ where she had little to contribute.

Even friendly comments like “Oh you’ve never been to France? Well it’s good you married a Raizada! Akash, make sure to take her to Paris!”

She didn’t marry him for the money.

And the worst is she didn’t have an answer for what she did. She was just… home. Cooking, cleaning, assisting Buaji. When the main dish - entrees - arrived, she was the only one not using chopsticks on the table.

That’s when a morsel in her mouth felt unfamiliar.

It was meat.

She reached for water but spat at the fizziness.

The whole party’s attention fell straight on her. Akash immediately went up to her as Payal coughed up the sparkling water. Arnav rushed up with some extra tissues, and Payal looked around, tearing up in embarrassment. NK offered some water, sympathetic to her now drenched saree.

“It’s ok Payal ji,” Akash began but Payal ran away to the bathroom, leaving the crowd in silent hushes.

That’s when Arnav knew, he screwed up.

– – –

‘Laad Governor’

Khushi rolled her eyes at her phone. So now he had the audacity to call her? Right in between watching Govinda rock Katrina’s party. Perhaps that’s exactly what Jiji was doing! Her quiet elegant aura would captivate people.

Madhumati tapped her fingers to Soni De Nakhre, Titaliya was right. Ordering food from outside for one night did feel like a girls’ day out. She had forgotten when it was the last time eating Chinese food in front of the telly.

Khushi’s phone buzzed again.

“Ugh, I now get why you’re frustrated with that man!” Madhumati grumbled and Khushi gave her a high five. Probably Akash ji had the sense to admonish Arnav for not inviting Khushi.

Or as Buaji had just told her the way Jiji had put the Laad Governor in his place, she might’ve yelled at him for not calling her darling sister. Good!

“Tell me, finally you realised you should’ve invited me to party haina? As if Khushi ke bina-”

Madhumati watched Khushi freeze, every joy stripped out of her face.

In a flash Khushi grabbed her wallet and ran out - uncaring of her dupatta or rubber sandals.

“Aye Titaliya!” Madhumati hollered.

“Jiji needs me.” Khushi shot back, hailing an autorickshaw.

– – –

Arnav, NK and Akash waited by the bathroom door. Payal’s muffled sobs were barely audible. She hadn’t responded to Akash or NK’s requests. The sneer behind ‘huh opposites do attract’ was evident. All attention had been on the new Raizada member that couldn’t pronounce brands, wore garish colours, fumbled with chopsticks and couldn’t stomach sparkling water.

Arnav’s glare had kept them silent, but it didn’t remove the judgement from their eyes.

“Khushi ji, thank God you’re here.” NK escorted Khushi who ran in her pajamas, hair askew, “Where’s Jiji Nanhe ji?” Khushi asked, frantically looking around for her sister. A look at the party and her heart sank. Everything was so foreign.

“Khushi, Payal is in-” Arnav pointed Khushi to the bathroom.

“I don’t remember asking you,” Khushi snapped, her eyes wild in anger. The audacity of that man. Arnav glowered back - he was trying to help, damn it! He knew things didn’t turn out as he had expected but this was unanticipated.

Khushi banged on the bathroom door, “Jiji, it’s me.”

Payal cracked the bathroom door open and braved a smile, “Khushi… you didn’t have to come. Oh no… did you come here in your pajamas? What will everyone-” Khushi engulfed Payal in a hug. Payal broke down, the warmth of Khushi’s hug finally making her feel safe, at home.

NK headed to the party, doing damage control and sending the guests back home with his classic, cheerful grin. Akash shuffled on his feet, unsure how to manage the situation.

“Payal, don’t worry. It’s not a big deal-” Khushi broke the hug at Arnav’s attempt to reassure her sister. She looked dead into Arnav’s eyes and he balked at the anger simmering in her look.

“Payal ji, if you don’t mind can we speak?” Akash asked. Payal nodded.

“Yes, please talk to her, Akash ji. My family and I very happily gave Jiji to you under very different expectations. I can understand all this happening when he-” Khushi pointed to Arnav, “- is here. Because he doesn’t see beyond himself or his world.” Arnav seethed at the insult. How dare she? Would she even care to listen to him?

“But you? Are you just like your brother? But… better mannered?” Khushi asked, her voice cracking at the end. Perhaps Arnav was the best in the family. He was the only Raizada who actually showed her what the Raizadas were. For all of Nani ji’s politeness, she could barely acknowledge her own daughter in law only because she was middle class. And although Anjali ji was extremely kind, she didn’t hesitate using the contract and money against Khushi when it was necessary in her terms.

And here was Akash, the man Payal loved.

Despite him, Payal was lonely in a crowd.

Akash, unlike his brother, heard her accusations that Khushi said and didn’t say, in a quiet acceptance.

“Khushi, you’re taking this too far.” Arnav warned her. He too understood what Khushi insinuated.

“She isn’t Bhai.” Akash cut in, “You’d do much more for much less.” Khushi calmed as Akash stepped in her defence. Arnav frowned at the open defiance but had nothing to reply when all Akash said was truth. Perhaps unlike his brother, Akash was more perceptive.

“Payal ji, may I?” Akash held out his hand, escorting Payal to a private area, away from the argument that was bound to happen. Khushi ushered Payal and turned to look at Arnav.

“Not a big deal Mr. Raizada?” Khushi snapped, not giving Arnav a chance to speak. Arnav closed his eyes and willed himself to calm down. Akash was right. Arnav had been much worse for much less.

“Khushi, I understand why you’re angry but trust me this isn’t a big deal.” Arnav said slowly, taking a step towards Khushi, offering peace.

“Nothing ever is, is it Arnav ji?” Khushi laughed, shaking her head at his incredulity.

“Khushi,” Arnav began but Khushi raised her hand, her laughter dead into a silent tight lipped smile.

“Jiji’s embarrassment is not a big deal. Me regularly being overworked at your home for the same amount of salary is not a big deal. Your office making fun of me is not a big deal. Dropping me off a floor is not a big deal. Releasing my photos in the news is not a big deal then what in the world is a big deal for you Arnav Singh Raizada?!” Khushi yelled.

“Khushi, I didn’t mean that.” Arnav said.

“Mean what Mr. Raizada? And I don’t care about what you meant or not or what is a big deal for you or not. I begged you, pleaded you that please make this party comfortable for her. You have no idea what it is to be in a place where no one dresses like you. Where everyone speaks a foreign language that’s hard to pick up. Where you can hear people snickering but nobody says anything to your face. Where there’s no food nearby that you can eat and feel comfortable.” Khushi stopped, her eyes welling up at the memory of her being bullied at AR. Arnav’s face fell. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that Khushi no longer was speaking about Payal.

“Khushi, I’m…” Arnav broke off, the apology stuck at his throat for it didn’t feel enough. Khushi rolled her eyes at his inability to verablise the words. Arnav cursed himself, for not even doing the bare minimum.

“Anyway, why isn’t Anjali Ji here?” Khushi asked.

“Di wouldn’t be comfortable here so-” Arnav broke off, understanding dawning on him. He could understand his sister’s comfort, but not his sister-in-law’s? In his spite to override Khushi and show off what he could provide at the snap of his fingers, he removed the one thing her family truly depended on and trusted him for.

Reassurance.

He was the only thread of reassurance for this marriage and today he alienated the new member of his household out of spite. Even if it was unintentional. Khushi chuckled mirthlessly, for Arnav wasn’t as daft to the situation as she thought.

He knows what comfort is, but was too spiteful to act on it.

But perhaps she had flamed it as well. If she had truly told him about his sister perhaps things would have been better. Yet she was busy fanning her pride over the matter, making it all about herself when it was about her sister.

“Arnav ji, I know you don’t respect me and never will. I also know you’re capable of making apologies when necessary and affording my family the respect they deserve. So that means I’m the problem. And I promise I won’t get in your way, visit your house or even get involved in your family’s end of the rituals if it ensures the happiness for my sister. My childishness, our anger, nothing matters. Just keep her happy, that’s it. It’s the only thing I’m trusting you with. It’s the only thing I’m begging you for.” Khushi promised, tears rolling down her cheeks.

From now on Khushi would hold herself back if it meant Payal could live happily in the new household. It was a clear reminder that her actions would have repercussions in Payal’s marriage. This disastrous party was just a petty example.

Arnav tried to hold Khushi, his own pettiness shaming him. He didn’t mean this. He didn’t need her to beg for her sister’s happiness. Goddamnit he didn’t want their anger to affect Payal and Akash’s nascent relationship.

Khushi turned away and left, leaving Arnav’s hand to stop her in the air, regret painted all across his face. When NK jogged up to Khushi it became clear as day to Arnav that it was jealousy.

And fear.

With his jealousy satiated by throwing a party that NK couldn’t even imagine, his fear came true. Khushi didn’t need another man for him to lose her. He simply never had her in the first place.

– – –

Khushi’s heart filled with joy as she watched a happier Payal return with Akash coat around her shoulders. The air was indeed chilly. Payal gave her a reassuring smile and Akash gave her a soft, apologetic one.

“I am sorry saali saheba. But the next time I disappoint you please throw one of your jalebis or the one liners you give to Bhai. Your anger truly frightens me.” Akash gently held his ears, leading the sisters to laugh.

“So you mean there will be a next time?” Khushi faked anger and Akash flustered, “Nahi! I mean if in case but that doesn’t mean it will happen again!”

Payal twisted Khushi’s ear, warning her against teasing Akash too much.

“Oho Khushi ji, leave Akash alone. He already deals with Daanav” Khushi’s eyes went wide as NK corrected himself, “I mean Naanav.” Akash rolled his eyes.

“Payal,” Everyone stopped smiling as Arnav came into view. Perhaps NK wasn’t mistaken to call Arnav a ‘daanav’, Khushi thought. Arnav strode towards Payal with purpose and instinctively Khushi came in his way.

Arnav looked at Khushi for a moment, the lack of trust evident in her eyes. He released a sigh and side stepped her. Khushi guffawed at the audacity.

“Can I speak to you in private?”

– – –

“It’s ok, you don’t have to apologise.” Payal dismissed Arnav as they reached the hall.

“As the host of the party it was my responsibility to ensure your comfort. I didn’t.” Arnav said, unable to look at her in the eyes, “Also as your brother in law I should’ve looked after you. I didn’t.”

“It was just not my day, I’ll adjust better in the future.” Payal assured him.

“You shouldn’t have to. If you don’t enjoy this environment then that’s it. None of us question why Di won’t be comfortable here, there’s no reason why anyone should raise eyebrows at why you don’t like these parties either.” Arnav told her.

“Arnav ji-”

“Bhai,”

“What?” Payal asked, surprised.

“That’s what I am, right?” Arnav shrugged. Wasn’t it customary that the relationship Akash have in this family be transferred to Payal as well? Payal’s hesitation meant only one thing - nobody in the family gave her the feeling that she is a part of the family.

“Bhai…” Payal tested the word, feeling strange to call this man as her brother. Arnav nodded, the word giving him the knock of responsibility he should’ve adopted long ago.

“From today you’re no different to me than Akash or Di. There should never be a reason why you’re crying. And if you are crying, there shouldn’t be a reason why you won’t tell me why, ok?” Payal laughed as Arnav attempted to comfort her.

“Try adding a smile to everything you just said.” Payal requested, desperately trying to keep her laughter in check.

“What?”

“Ar-Bhai, you look like you’re giving orders instead of being kind.” Payal grinned. Arnav looked away, flustered. Was his generic mode to always give orders?

“In all the tales she’s told of you, I see why she calls you a Lord Governor.” Arnav frowned, Khushi told stories of him? And is that why she ended up with the moniker Laad Governor? A small smile lit his face. He caught himself and extended a hand to Payal who cautiously shook.

“I’m serious Bhabhi,” Payal looked up, surprised at him calling her that, “you genuinely don’t have to worry. From now on, your family is mine.” Arnav promised.

“You don’t have to take so many responsibilities. My sister is more than capable of handling my family.” Payal beamed in pride. Khushi had taken everything on her shoulders with strengths even the elders didn’t have. Her smile fell as the worry of Shyam bugged her. Arnav, Akash and the whole family deserved the truth.

“What happened?” Arnav asked.

“Nothing, and anyway, thank you.” Payal smiled on her way out. Arnav shrugged.

NK joked that Payal was alive after Arnav interrogated her and Akash smacked him on the head. Arnav shook his head at the interaction and frowned. Khushi was nowhere to be found. His shoulders felt heavy with the new set of responsibilities. Guilt and fear sat in the pit of stomach. He knew that he and Akash were more than capable of looking after the Guptas, but it was true that he was the root source of most of their problems.

How would he solve everything? Khushi wouldn’t hesitate to actually beating him up if he so much so offered a cent to her.

He ran his hand through his hair, the Gupta family’s issues forming a new checklist in his head next to Mami’s wish for new jewelries and Nani’s desire to bring in a family priest from Lucknow. That’s when the air changed and Arnav looked up, searching for Khushi.

He found her by the hall door, stunned.

She had overheard everything.

– – –

Arnav and Khushi returned to their old bickering without a hint of the kindness of his promise to Payal or bitterness of the argument lingering.

Except one thing changed, neither Arnav nor Akash left either of the sisters to be lonely ever again.

Be it in front of their own family when Mami questioned the value of a steel plate.

Or on stage when Khushi stood without a dance partner.

– – –

The end! I hope you liked this one shot 😊

#ipkknd #iss pyaar ko kya naam doon #ipkknd ff #One shot #lonely in a crowd #Jalebi writes

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