Page 56 of Knot So Romantic

“Mmm...you could try telling her how you really feel about her. Maybe you could tell her at your event. Mom would love to meet her, too.”

On one hand, I’d love for Kavita to meet my mother. On the other, I realize she’s still keeping me a secret from her parents. Would coming to the event and meeting my mother fit with her idea of taking things slow?

“Introducing her to Mom feels so ‘serious,’” I tell Elena.

“I thought you wanted ‘serious.’ You were just telling me how much you like her.”

“But I wouldn’t want to pressure her into something she’s not ready for.”

“Don’t pressure her, then. Just introduce her. Let her decide how she feels about that.”

“Well...” I hesitate, then realize it’s a valid suggestion. I’m overthinking and making this more complicated than it is. “Okay. That sounds fine.”

“Fine,” she grins just as Kavita reappears, holding the most gorgeous outfit I’ve ever seen. It’s a rich rose-colored lehenga and blouse with real pearls on it. And a lacy, sheer dupatta that’s stunning.

Elena falls in love with it instantly. “I wish I could move up my wedding,” she gasps. “It’s so beautiful!” Her eyes well with tears as she feels the fabric. “So, so beautiful.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Kavita’s breath catches as Elena hugs her, making her wobble. She’s still holding the dress to the side when Elena kisses her cheeks. “That’s the prettiest dress I’ve ever seen.”

Kavita beams. “Try it on?”

When Elena emerges from the dressing room, my jaw drops. The dress is indeed gorgeous, and as my sister twirls around in it, I’m filled with joy for her upcoming wedding.

Her wedding...

A voice in my head whispers: I want that too.

I can’t believe how much I’ve changed since meeting Kavita.

A swell of emotion tightens my chest as I watch Kavita walk toward me, her eyes shining. The worries and doubts I had after our last trip come swirling back, just like they do whenever I think about what’s next for Kavita and me.

I’ve already been through all of this, but she’s never been married. It’s probably too soon to assume she wants that kind of commitment with me.

“Let me change out of this,” Elena says, beaming. “I’ll be in the changing room if you need me.”

As soon as Elena is out of sight, I pull Kavita into my arms. I kiss her slowly this time, letting out a deep sigh as we part.

“What?” she asks, looking into my eyes.

“At the event next week, I’d like to...introduce you to my mother.”

Her eyes widen. “Are we progressing in our relationship?”

“I know you haven’t told your family, but we have your fashion show at the event. So this could be kind of official, too?”

“You’re looking for a reason to introduce me,” she says, her eyes twinkling.

I run my hand through my hair. “I’ve sort of told my mother about you. But I understand if you want a more formal reason for meeting her.”

“So, you’re not upset that I don’t want to share you with my parents yet? My parents will be at the event, too.”

I shake my head. “I’ll be ready whenever you’re ready.”

She rises on her toes and gives me a quick kiss before Elena returns from the changing room and hands the dress back to her for minor adjustments.

Elena grins as we get into the car. “Did I interrupt your little moment? Or did you have enough time to enjoy that kiss?”

“You miss nothing,” I say dryly.