The Reluctant Matchmaker by Shobhan Bantwal Read Free Book Online Page A

Pinky that I was disappointed. But then, what was I expecting? Prajay Nayak was someone I’d met briefly, under weird circumstances. Despite his vehement denial, his concern for me probably stemmed from the fear of a lawsuit. Nothing personal.
    And why was I so anxious about his opinion? He had this austere face and a body like an army tank. But on the other hand, he had a gentle side to him—a softer, generous side.
    He had hauled me in his arms. Twice. That counted for something. Besides, I’d never dated anyone who dressed so sharply or had such gentlemanly manners.
    The two men I’d dated somewhat seriously so far had turned out to be selfish and egotistical. One of them was a medical resident I’d met three years ago. He was so full of himself because he’d made it through Harvard Medical School that he thought women had to bow to him. I’d wished him good-bye and good luck after four awkward dates. He couldn’t imagine why a woman who barely reached his shoulder didn’t find him irresistible.
    The other guy, a Konkani accountant introduced to me by my parents, had hinted that his future wife had to be modest and obedient. Neither of those adjectives even remotely described me. I broke up with him after three dates, much to my parents’ disappointment. Besides, he was a lousy kisser. He’d tried to kiss me on our third and last date, and it was like being slobbered on by a Saint Bernard. Then he’d asked me if I’d enjoyed the kiss.
    Compared to those two guys, Prajay Nayak came across as a nice man with a solid brain and a kind enough heart. But then, why would he throw a glance at a little pixie like me?
    So imagine my surprise when the next day a dozen flame-colored roses with his get-well card arrived for me. I tried not to get too excited, because I still suspected it was the fear of a lawsuit that had prompted the gesture.
    Mom was ecstatic. In her old-fashioned mind, if a single young man sent me flowers, it was with the intention of courting me. I hated to spoil her fun, so I kept my mouth shut.
    Just when I thought the surprises were over, another stunning thing happened a day later. Paul called me to find out if I was in any shape to return to work on Monday, and I said, “Yes, if either you or Pinky can give me a ride. If it’s not too much ... trouble?” I added hesitantly. It was an imposition, since they both lived some distance from my home.
    â€œGuess what,” said Paul casually. “Prajay has offered to give you a ride to the office and back for the week.”
    I searched my brain for a logical explanation “Why?”
    â€œWhen he found out where Pinky and I lived, he offered on his own. Apparently his condo is close to your home.”
    â€œBut isn’t he returning to Washington soon?” My heartbeat had crept up a notch.
    â€œNot for a few weeks. He’s taking care of business in our office at the moment.”
    Of all times to have business in the local office. “I’m not sure, Paul. I don’t want to inconvenience Prajay further.” The thought of riding with the king himself was exciting—but disquieting at the same time. Prajay still intimidated me somewhat. Besides, I’d embarrassed myself plenty already, and the possibility of adding to it was pretty high if I had a fifteen-minute commute each way for several days. “My dad can give me a ride.”
    â€œDoesn’t your father work around Moorestown?”
    â€œYes, but my father offered, and Prajay is only trying to be kind... .” It was indeed a stretch for Dad.
    â€œLook, if I were you, I’d take Prajay’s offer,” encouraged Paul. “Your house is right on his way, so it’s not like he’s going to be greatly inconvenienced. You can hobble around on your own now?”
    â€œHe doesn’t need to carry me, if that’s what you’re asking.”
    â€œGood. I’ll see you Monday,