‘Yes, Ma. I am feeling cold. Now let’s go inside.’

‘Do you know, your father did the same thing. His parents weren’t aware of our marriage either.’

‘Yes, Ma, it runs in the family.’

‘You should have at least sent us a telegram. I don’t even have sweets at home. And I am avoiding chocolates.’

‘Yes, Ma. I should have. I will explain. And I have brought imported chocolates for you. Let’s go inside now. People are watching us.’

‘Will you and your father ever change, I wonder.’

‘We will, Ma. Now let’s go in.’

Satisfied with her rant and having stamped her authority, she went in and sat next to Bibi on the sofa. Both father and son sat at a little distance and watched them as they chatted over tea. ‘We have heard so much about you and the challenges you’ve faced. Please treat me like your mother. Together, we will write a new chapter in your life. Just remember, life comes with a confirmed “return ticket”. Therefore, live with a heart filled with joy and not with one filled with pain,’ Preeti reassured her beautiful daughter-in-law, who nodded shyly. The new house reminded Bibi of her father’s bungalow. There were plenty of similarities in style, upkeep and functioning.

In a matter of days, she settled in the new environment like honey mixes with milk. The city never ceased to amaze her—be it the big American cars, the stylish bungalows or the luxury hotels. Her eyes widened each time she heard the high prices of fruits and vegetables. Her small negotiations with vendors amused her mother-in-law no end. But soon, she got accustomed to her new life and began learning the art of living in a modern society.

She travelled extensively with her husband to numerous army stations and within a few months took control of his life too. The office of the Army Wives Welfare Association became her second home. Talking at length to the wives of the jawans and being involved in their lives gave her immense pleasure. Despite being a senior officer’s wife, she displayed no ego and mingled with the women without any qualms. She did not hesitate to break the chain of command to address serious issues and used out-of-the-box ideas to put the soldiers’ families at ease. In a few months, her selfless devotion and care made her a household name in Virk’s battalion.