Chapter 12
One night later, as Manisha nestled into her bed, she glanced at her phone, a grin spreading across her face.
The memories of the lively brainstorming session following karaoke night at Deena’s kitchen table rushed back to her—where laughter and bursts of creativity blended with just a touch too much vodka.
While they’d waited for their shawarmas to arrive, Manisha had joked about wanting to find a man who shared her passion for food, sparking the playful idea of “Curry and Cupid.”
“And the tagline could be, ‘Spicing up your love life, one match at a time!’ ” Deena had chimed in.
“I love it! Who wouldn’t want to explore romance over a shared curry platter?” Manisha had said, excitement bubbling within her.
Just as she was about to drift off, her phone buzzed to life.
It had been a long day—filled with errand-running with her mother, helping her dad around the house, and keeping up with Deena’s updates about the website.
Finally, Deena had launched Curry and Cupid, and the mere idea of a Bollywood-style romance blossoming sent a tingle through Manisha.
Despite her exhaustion, the anticipation of what was to come pulled her out of her drowsiness and prompted her to reach for her phone.
The profiles are rolling in fast, Deena texted.
Manisha jolted upright in bed, surprised.
She knew Deena had strong marketing instincts, but Manisha hadn’t expected such swift results virtually overnight.
It was both thrilling and a little intimidating to realize that men were actively seeking love, even if it was through a somewhat dubious matchmaking platform.
But she didn’t have the luxury of pondering that right now; another text pinged on her phone.
About half a dozen profiles.
Wow, that’s amazing! Manisha replied.
Deena wasted no time writing a follow-up text. I’ve narrowed it down to two potential dates for you. Clear your schedule for tomorrow!
Two dates in one day? she typed back, incredulous.
Remember what I told you? Don’t expect to be the only one on your date’s radar that day, either!
Manisha groaned lightly. Alright, two dates it is! I’ll manage!
We’re on track with everything you wanted in your Prince Charming: strong family values, ambitious, goal-oriented, and cute.
Don’t forget, MUST LOVE FOOD! Manisha typed back.
Deena replied with a playful Ha, ha! Yes!
Before she could second-guess her instincts, Manisha typed, Maybe those seeds really are working!
Told you! Never underestimate the power of a mysterious auntie, LOL…Deena replied. Sending you an email with more info.
Almost immediately, an email notification popped up on Manisha’s screen.
I’ve attached details for both dates. Take some time to familiarize yourself with them—it’s…
Intrigued, Manisha opened the PDF and began to delve into the profiles of her first two dates, Paul and Arinder.
Paul was a family-oriented man who co-owned a business with his sister, a venture they had nurtured from the ground up. His profile picture captured him in a lively family gathering, laughter illuminating his face and giving her a glimpse into his warm personality.
His family reminded Manisha so much of her own family.
He dedicated his weekends to volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and organizing community events aimed at uplifting underprivileged children.
Okay, with his passion for entrepreneurship and commitment to family, this Paul was a gem!
Her heart raced when she noticed his list of interests: hiking in local parks, cooking Italian cuisine, and indulging in road trips with his close-knit family.
Paul was really setting the bar high for Curry and Cupid matches.
Next, she turned her attention to Arinder’s profile.
An only child, he had managed to capture a truly endearing moment in his profile: a snapshot of him and his mom, both flashing radiant smiles against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal.
Arinder, a self-proclaimed foodie, loved exploring culinary delights from different cultures and often shared recommendations on his food blog, which he maintained alongside his full-time job in tech.
And his favourite wine was Barolo? He was making her thirsty!
He was also an avid chess player, regularly attending tournaments at the local chess club, where he had a reputation for being a strategic thinker. Impressive!
His weekends often involved trying out new restaurants or hosting dinner parties for friends, where he showcased his cooking talents.
Manisha was genuinely intrigued; both men had distinct qualities that piqued her interest. And from what she could glean, they would make great dads.
Still, there was one more important thing to do.
She opened her Instagram and searched for Paul and Arinder, hoping not to discover any viral moments like hers.
Thankfully, all she found were unassuming posts: Paul with his sister at a charity event and Arinder sharing a scenic photo of a vineyard tour. What a relief!
Deena texted to confirm, So, you’ll meet Paul at 4 p.m. and Arinder at 5 p.m.
Okay, back-to-back dates. If you can do this…I can do this. Where? Manisha replied, her determination growing.
Everyone is doing this. Chai Time. Sweet dreams.
Manisha flopped back onto her pillow with a groan.