April 2015 A to Z Blogging Challenge- Chapter 9- If I had a nickel for every time

I'll Be There Beside You 

Chapter 9

Today’s Idiom – If I had a nickel for every time

Meaning- When someone uses this expression, they mean that the specific thing happens a lot.

Rashmi sat beside us, her hands laden with the shopping that she had done.

“Are you guys done talking or maybe I should just go home. Sudhir can give you a lift later. I can see that I’ve interrupted your deep discussion.”

I was about to commend Rashmi for her brilliant idea when Lalitha shot down the suggestion by reminding us that her dad wouldn’t be pleased when he saw his daughter roaming around the familiar streets of Udipi with a man.

“Bala mama and his strict rules”, Rashmi rolled her eyes.

Lalitha shot her a stern look and Rashmi made a face.

“Don’t give me that look. If I had a nickel for every time you had to surrender and yield to his orders then I’d be richer than Bill Gates.” Rashmi replied

“It’s ok. If Lalitha is not comfortable then let’s not force her”, I commented although I was disappointed. The prospect of spending more time with Lalitha sounded appealing but I could understand her concern.

Rashmi decided to give us some more time and said that she’d be waiting near the two-wheeler parking space.

“Lalitha, I like you and when my mom asks my decision, I’m going to say yes. I think we are perfect for each other. What do you think?” I asked bravely though my heart was beating wildly in anticipation.

“I like you too Sudhir. This conversation has cleared all our previous misunderstandings. And whatever happens in future, I hope that you’ll always be there beside me, like a rock, supporting me. Whenever we have an argument, we’ll sit down, just like we did today, and sort out our issues. For me, marriage is forever, till death do us apart. I hope that the bond between us grows stronger each day and that the love we share become the solace that we seek when we grow old together” Lalitha was gazing at me earnestly and I wanted to hold her in my arms and confirm that I’d always be there beside her. But I thought that the gesture would be too soon. Instead I nodded and held her hands gently.

At home my mother was ecstatic after listening to my news. I excused myself and went to my room.  I recalled Lalitha’s emotional words and I promised myself that I’d never hurt her. I would shower all the love and care that she deserved and I’d give the freedom that she never received in her mother’s house. I’d give her wings to fly and achieve her dreams.

 You can read the previous chapters here-

Chapter 1                                     Chapter 8                

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7