Vikram waved at everyone before sliding into the driver's seat.
The car pulled away. Divya sat in stunned silence for three blocks.
"Why did you do that?" she finally asked.
"Do what?"
"This. Visit my parents without warning. Offer to visit Aditya's college. All of it."
Vikram kept his eyes on the road. "Mom called this afternoon. Mentioned you haven't been home since the wedding. Said it's traditional for the bride to visit her parents. That I should take you."
"Mom said that?"
"Mm-hmm. So I took you." He glanced at her briefly. "Problem?"
"No, I just…" She studied his profile. "That was very thoughtful of her."
"She's very thoughtful," he agreed.
Divya would never verify this with Kavita. Wouldn't think to question it.
And Vikram was content. She'd looked almost teary when he'd thanked her parents. Had watched him with something soft in her eyes when he'd offered to visit Aditya's college.
He needed more moments like this. To show her without saying it. To make her feel without pushing.
His hand found hers on the console between them. Threaded their fingers together.
She didn't pull away.
Progress.
Past Midnight
The house was silent. Only Vikram's study showed light. A single lamp illuminated the desk where he sat, phone in hand.
He'd left Divya sleeping an hour ago. She'd curled toward him unconsciously, that small expression lingering even in sleep.
It wasn't enough.
The documentary had been good. The home visit had been good. But they were safe. Public. Things any thoughtful person might arrange.
He needed something private. Something that would reach her through specificity.
He scrolled through his contacts. Mrs. Menon.
The phone rang three times. "Vikram? It's past midnight. Either someone died or you've finally realized you're in love."
Despite himself, he almost-smiled. "No one died."
"Ah." Warmth filled her voice. "So it's love. About time."
"I need your help."
"Obviously. What kind of information?"
"Personal preferences. Small things she loves but wouldn't think to mention."
Mrs. Menon was quiet for a moment. "You're serious about this."