Hello K,
I came across your index while going through postings from other IF members on what they recommend to read. I read a few of your short stories and the title "Arranged Marriage" caught my eye. Being someone who finally found love in an arranged marriage, I was really intrigued by your take on this concept. I love the story so far and am really interested to know how you plan to take this forward. Bits and pieces of your story are surprisingly very similar to my own married life though not exactly the same.
I dont know if I am really a silent reader on IF. I just recently got myself registered on IF like two months back. I never knew the existence of Arnav and Khushi till my mom paid a visit this year. I started off by reading various random postings and only later on discovered Fan Fictions. I am quite clueless on the various virtual controversies that has happened in here.
I went through your note while reading this story, and honestly I am shocked at the experience your friend has had here and a little angry too. I am a woman myself, and a mother to a daughter. I am sure no girl likes to be called names. I would like to believe all women on this forum comes from decent families and nobody would want to experience something of that sort. My heart goes out to your friend as what she experienced was completely unfair.
I dont know how late I am in posting this comment here. But I wanted to write on behalf of fairly new readers like myself. Most new readers probably will refrain from commenting on stories, because they probably dont know what they like. I was like that. I have read through few stories in here that were recommended by other members and not all stories are the kind that I like. I am also not the sort of the person who would comment just for the sake of commenting. I guess I am too old for that, I dont know.. havent figured out that yet. :-)
Coming back to what I really wanted to discuss... I wanted to ask both you and your friend something... and I ask this just as how I would ask my daughter or my sister -
Assuming you both have driving permits - Would you stop driving a vehicle after you have had an accident? Irrespective of whose fault it was? I am guessing no. Try looking at this situation with the same logic.
Pls consider this experience as a bad road accident. By quitting or closing off your stories to selective readers, you are just giving into what the other person really wants you to do. I know a bully when I see one... or in this case, read about one. Please do not give into bullies. Real or the virtual kind.
I know it is easier for me to say, but do think about it. If you both still feel like closing off your stories to selective readers, it is again your call entirely. As a well wisher, I completely understand. But as a reader, I would be really unhappy.
Take care.
Warm regards
A
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