Shona orders waffles for breakfast. What is your favourite food item to order for breakfast? Something sweet? Or something savoury?
It’s clear that Shona is not a morning person. Do you think this will change now that she is branching off on her own?
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Are you someone who motivates others to do “dumb fun things”, or are you the person that needs to be motivated?
Do you think Sen meant to imply a double meaning with being in it “for the long haul”?
As we get to know Shona and Sen, do you think they complement each other well? Not only as friends but perhaps something more?
Did you expect Sen to come back with food after their awkward goodbye?
Shona has had a rocky living situation and when explaining where she stayed first, it sounds like the worst place. What do you think of the elderly couple helping Shona by lowering the price?
Why do you think running the shop got in the way of Shona cooking for herself and looking after her place?
While lying in bed, Sen reminisces about his childhood with Shona and Anni. Did you also have a particular place that was THE place where you and your friends would hangout?
Why do you think Sen was cold towards Shona when they were at the fabric shop?
The author glances over the meeting with Felicity. Would you have preferred to see what happened in the meeting or are you more interested in the relationships between the characters?
Chapter Five is the first time we see the infamous friend group together. Do you think Sen and Shona may have given themselves away?
Do you think Sen should have been so quick to assume that Shona was flirting with the accountant?
Who do you think was the boy in Shona’s past that she used to love? Do you think it is Hunter or Sen?
What do you think of the salary difference between Shona’s job at the shop versus her working for herself? What do you think of the fact that her parents never gave her a pay rise?
The career path Shona is now heading on allows her to be more financially stable. How do you think this will impact her relationship with her parents?
It seems that the shop has always come first. What do you think Shona’s dad promised her mother?
Sen went looking for Shona at her family’s shop. What do you think of this and the events that subsequently followed? Do you think the two of them will stop thinking about this relationship as a fling?
What sort of steps do you think both need to take to make this relationship a real one?
Why do you think Shona didn’t tell Sen that she had quit the shop? Why do you think she also lied to him after he asked her about it?
What do you think of Sen’s outburst? Do you think this will be the wake-up call Shona needed?
It seems like everyone has something to say to Shona. When Aruna arrives at Shona’s apartment, Aruna accuses Shona of being a drama queen. Do you think this is truly the case?
Why do you think Aruna quit dancing?
Sven has quickly entered Shona’s life. And by that we mean, the timing seems suspicious, doesn’t it?
When talking to Sven, Shona corrects him and says that Sen is not her boyfriend. Not long after their interaction ends, Shona corrects herself and says Sen is “a boyfriend”. What do you think she will do to win him back?
12 responses to “Pillow Talk – Day Two”
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1. Definitely something savory – if I could order a plate of only bacon, I would!
2. It will have to. If she’s going to be a business woman, she’ll have to get up earlier. Besides, I think she’s more motivated to get up for her own business than she was for her parents’, because she’s getting more out of her life.
3. I’m 100% a night owl. Do NOT wake me before 8. (Except for work, of course) You will regret it!
4. I’m the person that needs to be motivated. Luckily I have plenty of those types of people in my life, so I do plenty of weird things.
5. I think he didn’t think it through before he said it but that he meant it afterwards. He obviously likes Shona more than either of them planned on.
6. Yes. They get along well and they motivate one another’s darker sides, not shying away from each other’s problems and such.
7. No. But kudo’s to him, he’s definitely perfect boyfriend material. That was the right move, my man!
8. I think that kindness is often repaid by kindness, even if it is months or years later. It was very sweet of them to do her such a huge favour.
9. She was always busy at the shop and looking after her family and trying to get her dad on board with the new age, that she never had a chance to look after herself. And she was probably always exhausted. Everything else took a back-burner.
10. Pretty much only at school. I didn’t really have hang-out-after-school friends.
11. I think he got scared, because the moment he saw her all happy, he knew he was truly in love with her. And the thought terrifies him.
12. I’m good with an overview. I’m more interested in Shona’s interaction with her own friends and family.
13. Yes, definitely. Anni caught them out so fast, but she’s going to hold onto that for a while until they need to hear it.
14. No, he shouldn’t have. He should have given her the benefit of the doubt.
15. I think it was Sen. How else do you explain the jealousy with which she handled the situation with the other girl when they were kids?
16. I think her parents assumed she’d be there forever, anyways. And it’s always difficult mixing family and business, because they’ll always see you as their baby and they’ll pay you very little for your troubles. I think it’s unfair that she never got a raise.
17. Maybe that one day they would take a vacation or that she would always come before the shop?
18. He obviously doesn’t care if people see them together anymore. I also think that she makes him both extremely angry and frustrated and happy at the same time. He loves her, and he would like her to trust him, but it’s difficult for them both. They keep telling themselves that it’s a fling, but they’ve actually been dating for a while now and they just haven’t realised it yet.
19. First, they need to stop being afraid of emotions and love, then they need to stop calling it a fling in their minds. And then they need to take the risk and make it official. Stop being so emotionally constipated guys!!
20. She’s scared that he’ll judge her or tell her it was stupid, since she couldn’t make it on her own. I think this is because, secretly, she also believes that she can’t make it on her own.
21. I think he showed his cards and finally told her how much he likes her, without saying it outright. Obviously, she’s not great at reading between the lines, but I think she’ll get there, eventually.
22. No. I think Shona has put up with too much for too long. I understand her decision.
23. Maybe she got hurt or something happened and she didn’t want to discuss it? Or maybe she, too, had too many expectations riding on her.
24. Very much so, yes.
25. Either make a very large romantic gesture or harass him into taking her back. Or make him jealous maybe? -
1. I’m definitely a savory breakfast girl. Give me a toasted bagel with eggs and smoked salmon any day. I’ll happily admire Shona’s waffles from afar, but my heart belongs to the savory side of brunch.
2. Shona never really had control of her mornings. They were ruled by the shop’s strict schedule, where she had to be there early and couldn’t be a minute late. Now that she’s stepping away, I think she’ll slowly figure out her own rhythm and take better control of her life. Her ‘chaotic’ side feels more like a by-product of that hectic shop routine than who she really is.
3. I’m definitely a night owl. Some of my best ideas come late at night, when the world is quiet and calm. I love the solitary, unrushed feeling of those hours. It’s like the day finally gives you space to just be.
4. I’m definitely the one who needs a little convincing. I’m a true homebody at heart, happiest in my own cozy space. So if we’re doing something spontaneous and fun, you’ll have to nudge me out of my comfort zone first.5. Absolutely, I think by now Sen already wants more, and that little ‘long haul’ comment was his way of testing the waters to see how Shona might react.
6. Definitely! Shona and Sen compliment each other so well. Not just as friends, but I can see the sparks that hint at something more. They balance each other in such a natural, effortless way. He is the structure to her chaos.
7. No, I honestly thought it might be her sister. Sen coming back with food was such a sweet, unexpected move. Definitely showed off his charming side and I’m swooning !
8. I loved that the elderly couple helped Shona by lowering the price. It was such a meaningful act of kindness. After everything she’d been through with her living situation, it really made a difference and added a warm, human touch to her story.
9. Running the shop really consumed Shona’s life. She had almost no time for herself outside of her family’s control. It makes sense that cooking for herself or looking after her own space fell by the wayside.
10. I didn’t really have a special hangout spot as a kid. After school it was Madressah, then homework. The little free time I had was mostly spent indoors with my small circle of friends. Our ‘hangouts’ were cozy, indoor moments rather than one particular place.”
11. I think Sen was cold because he realized it wasn’t really a date. They were just two friends on an adventure. That hit him with a reality check he clearly wasn’t ready for yet.
12. Honestly, I’m here for the love story. Nothing else really matters to me, haha! I’m more invested in the relationship between the characters than the meeting itself.
13. Oh, absolutely 💯 I think Anni is definitely onto them. That’s probably why she encouraged them to chat people up at the bar.
14. No, I don’t think he should have jumped to that conclusion. His jealousy definitely got the better of him, and I think he could have hidden his discontent a bit better.
15. Sen. Definitely Sen. Always Sen, lol! 💕
16. The salary difference was really striking, and it was frustrating that her parents never gave her a pay rise. I don’t want to assume the business was thriving, but it felt like her father’s insistence on sticking to tradition was holding them back and limiting their market and business potential. Overall, that whole dynamic felt so controlling and stifling. She was running the shop but had no say really.
17. I think her parents might have some negative feelings about her success and will struggle to adjust to life without her under their control. They might even take it personally. See it as a betrayal, a kind of insult. Buttt it’ll be empowering for Shona to finally live on her own terms.
18. I think he promised her mom that he wouldn’t let the shop take over their lives the way it did with his parents. Clearly, though, things didn’t turn out that way.
19. I feel like Sen keeps overstepping boundaries and then getting frustrated when things don’t go his way. I think moments like this will make it harder for both of them to see this as just a fling. There’s too much emotion and history between them.
20. Communicate. Communicate. Communicate.
I think both of them need to communicate honestly, set some boundaries, and really take the time to understand each other. Patience and trust will be key if they want this to grow into something real.21. I think Shona lied because she was still processing her family not reaching out. She isn’t fully comfortable being honest and vulnerable yet, so sometimes she avoids the conversation or bends the truth to protect herself.
22. Sen’s outburst definitely shook things up! I think it might be the wake-up call Shona needed to realize how serious her feelings are and to start being more honest with herself…and with him.
23. No, not at all! I think Aruna’s reaction comes from having to step up since Shona left. She’s probably upset bexause she has extra responsibility. Also, how else is she supposed to find time to scroll on her phone when there’s actually work to be done?
24. At first, I wondered if something inappropriate happened at her dance classes. Then, I thought maybe she had to quit so the family could afford Shona’s tuition. Either way, I’m sure we’ll find out soon, lol!
25. Well, to be fair, her smoke alarm was going off! Is it really suspicious timing when someone’s just being a good neighbour? 😅 As long as he stays in his lane, lol. #TeamSen
26. I think when Shona says ‘a boyfriend,’ she means it in the sense that everything Sen does for her are things a boyfriend would do. I’m hoping this realization nudges her to be more honest about their situationship. By now, I thought Sen would have shown up already. I’m surprised he hasn’t !
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Q- Shona orders waffles for breakfast. What is your favourite food item to order for breakfast? Something sweet? Or something savoury?
A- Savoury – but I mostly do brunch instead of breakfast and lunch.Q- It’s clear that Shona is not a morning person. Do you think this will change now that she is branching off on her own?
A- I think she will need to be a bit more organised and get used to earlier mornings.Q- Are you a morning person or a night owl?
A- A bit of bothQ- Are you someone who motivates others to do “dumb fun things”, or are you the person that needs to be motivated?
A – I need the motivation lolQ- Do you think Sen meant to imply a double meaning with being in it “for the long haul”?
A- I think so!Q- As we get to know Shona and Sen, do you think they complement each other well? Not only as friends but perhaps something more?
A- Yes, I think they do. Shona however doesn’t seem to open up to Sen as much as he does to her for some reason.Q- Did you expect Sen to come back with food after their awkward goodbye?
A- It seems he’s always the one coming back , so yes.Q- Shona has had a rocky living situation and when explaining where she stayed first, it sounds like the worst place. What do you think of the elderly couple helping Shona by lowering the price?
A- I think that’s such a sweet and kind gesture.Q- Why do you think running the shop got in the way of Shona cooking for herself and looking after her place?
A- Her time was really limited and she also lacked inspiration to make her space her own.Q- While lying in bed, Sen reminisces about his childhood with Shona and Anni. Did you also have a particular place that was THE place where you and your friends would hangout?
A- Yes, it was a friends house where we always ended up over weekends.Q- Why do you think Sen was cold towards Shona when they were at the fabric shop?
A- I think he realised how much he’s falling for her and he’s not sure where he stands with her.Q- The author glances over the meeting with Felicity. Would you have preferred to see what happened in the meeting or are you more interested in the relationships between the characters?
A- I am interested to see what the meeting holds for her, but also keen to see more interactions with her family and Sen, ofcourse!Q- Chapter Five is the first time we see the infamous friend group together. Do you think Sen and Shona may have given themselves away?
A- It doesn’t seem like it at first, but I think Anni is on to them!Q- Do you think Sen should have been so quick to assume that Shona was flirting with the accountant?
A- No, but I think it’s a natural reaction to be a bit jealous.Q- Who do you think was the boy in Shona’s past that she used to love? Do you think it is Hunter or Sen?
A- I think it’s Sen!Q- What do you think of the salary difference between Shona’s job at the shop versus her working for herself? What do you think of the fact that her parents never gave her a pay rise?
A- It’s obviously not fair at all.Q- The career path Shona is now heading on allows her to be more financially stable. How do you think this will impact her relationship with her parents?
A – I think it will be difficult to navigate but if the parents can be open to new things and have a change in perspective, they could possibly work together!Q- It seems that the shop has always come first. What do you think Shona’s dad promised her mother?
A- That should could have her own career, be a hair stylist and open her own business perhaps.Q- Sen went looking for Shona at her family’s shop. What do you think of this and the events that subsequently followed? Do you think the two of them will stop thinking about this relationship as a fling?
A- Things are going to get serious from here on as he is clearly invested in Shona’s wellbeing and interested in more than just a fling.Q- What sort of steps do you think both need to take to make this relationship a real one?
A- Be honest with each other about their feelings, before going public.Q- Why do you think Shona didn’t tell Sen that she had quit the shop? Why do you think she also lied to him after he asked her about it?
A- I think she’s still in denial and can’t believe her family hasn’t reached out to her yet. I think she thought this would have blown over by now.Q- What do you think of Sen’s outburst? Do you think this will be the wake-up call Shona needed?
A- Another sign, he is very much in love with her. Shona is not reading between the lines yet 🙂Q- It seems like everyone has something to say to Shona. When Aruna arrives at Shona’s apartment, Aruna accuses Shona of being a drama queen. Do you think this is truly the case?
A – Not at all. I think she just had enough.Q- Why do you think Aruna quit dancing?
A- There’s definitely some family drama unraveling. I’m not sure what exactly, but I suspect it’s something to do with Shona.Q- Sven has quickly entered Shona’s life. And by that we mean, the timing seems suspicious, doesn’t it?
A- Definitely something brewing here.Q- When talking to Sven, Shona corrects him and says that Sen is not her boyfriend. Not long after their interaction ends, Shona corrects herself and says Sen is “a boyfriend”. What do you think she will do to win him back?
A- I think she just needs to talk to him and tell him exactly how she feels. He will be so happy! -
– [ ] I’m a savoury girlie I love a proper English brekki(halaal and beef free tho 😭)
– [ ] I think it may change her deadlines may be different and travelling to and from Durban may require her to be an early riser
– [ ] I’m a morning person 😭I cannot stay up late 😭I don’t know how to function sleeping late and I feel like I waste so much time if I wake up late . I’m a 69 year old stuck in a 24 year olds body
– [ ] I love spontaneity!
– [ ] Absolutely! But saying things like this without fully wording it leads to one side assumptions cuz he later questions if no string attached can be an exclusive thing ….my guy
– [ ] I so far see both compatibility and not . They suit each other in the sense that they both make each other feel something they have history and chemistry and in the same breath is does feel a lot more one sided . Shona doesn’t give much away until it’s more physically. But I can definitely see them building and changing for each other
– [ ] I didn’t but it was so cute !! I like that he noticed her loneliness and even though she’s very arms length he joins her bubble and she lets him
– [ ] Old people normal sense good vibes and energy
– [ ] Because she gave a lot of time and effort into that and then she’d have to use whatever spare time for her own business venture
– [ ] lol nooooo I come from a strict brown home 😭we didn’t go out very much
– [ ] I actually have no idea that confused me . She was n her element and he became harsh out of nowhere
– [ ] I think a little bit of context would’ve been nice
– [ ] They were so obviously no way anni doesn’t suspect !
– [ ] He so male and thinks with too much testosterone. Instead of waiting and asking he sat there and fizzled out making his own assumptions but I do understand where his coming from
– [ ] I think it was younger Sen
– [ ] I feel they did that to keep Shona dependent on them and that way keep her at the shop encodes they definitely know she’s talented they’re tailors they chose to ignore her talent because it was an inconvenience to the shop
– [ ] It makes her more independent and separates her as daughter from an employee . So now they should be abke to start seeing the daughter in than an assessable worker
– [ ] Probably promised her some sort thoughtful or considerate action that he didn’t pull through
– [ ] I don’t really understand why Shona kept it from him it would t of effected anything between then and it seemed unnecessary to lie for such a thing . I feel this was he way of still trying to keep him at arms length . I do feel his reaction was fair in a sense . This moment and time separated should as all thing make the heart grow fonder
– [ ] They need to literally tell each other exactly how they feel and their thoughts about each other . That’s the first step to anything
– [ ] She may have felt some embarrassment and internalised guilt .
– [ ] Distance makes the heart grow fonder ! So far it’s been him giving more than her and now so a chance for her to take a step
– [ ] No . This is ignorant attitude you get from smaller siblings with no sense of responsibility
– [ ] Maybe for the family maybe something monetary
– [ ] Very sus attempts to add in a new love interest
– [ ] lol run a fun walk and show him the medal ??? -
1. Definitely savoury!! Bacon and eggs all the way!
2. I think that along with branching off on her own she will gain a new sense of independence and in doing so might come to quite enjoy mornings as she has something to look forward to!
3. I’m definitely more of a night owl!
4. I’m unfortunately the person who often needs to be motivated
5. I think that he unconsciously meant it since I’m sure that in the back of his mind he knows he wants something more with Shona
6. Omg yes!! They literally mesh so well together! I feel like sen is definitely that confidence boost that Shona needs.
7. No I didn’t but I think that it was so cute that he did!
8. I think that they’re the sweetest!! It’s a reminder that that there are people in the world who are almost like guardian angels!
9. I think it was mentally and physically draining on her pouring so much of her time into a business that offered her no joy or the fruits of her labour.
10. Not really but most of my childhood memories with friends were made at school!
11. I don’t think he meant to do it on purpose. I think his own feeling scared him into doing something so immature.
12. I’m definitely more interested in the relationship between the characters!
13. I definitely think sen is lucky not to have been caught with his obvious questions . I think Anni has a slight idea though!!
14. I think not but he couldn’t help himself as he has feeling for her so definitely he got jealous
15. I definitely think it’s sen
16. The way she describes her parents as traditionalists make me think that she never got a pay raise because she was not a son. They never valued her when she was there
17. This might be both a push and pull. They might be proud that she’s more financially stable but bitter because she abandoned the family business to do so
18. He probably promised her to sell the shop
19. I think he was hurt because deep down he thought that he and Shona had something more. I think this is just a catalyst for them to start accepting that they are interested in something more serious with one another.
20. They both need to be honest about their feelings for one
21. I think she is scared of disappointing him and proving her parents right. She might think she’s a bad daughter for leaving
22. I think it’s going to really eat at her and make her do some self searching
23. I do not think that this is the case. I think that Aruna is just overwhelmed and this is what caused her outburst I’m sure she’ll regret it soon
24. I don’t know why I feel like this relates to a boy
25. Definitely. It’s giving second potential love interest and I’m all here for it!
26. I think she’s going to do a grand gesture and apologise!
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1. It depends on the setting. If I am at a waffle house, I would certainly order a sweet waffle with dark chocolate sauce, mascarpone, and berries. However, if I am somewhere that specialises in avocado on toast, then savoury it shall be.
2. When one does not enjoy their work, it often leads to demotivation. Now that Shona is pursuing something she loves, she will undoubtedly make the effort, even waking up early to do so.
3. I am naturally a morning person. Even on weekends or during school holidays, I rise early.
4. I am someone who requires motivation from others.
5. Considering his feelings for Shona, he certainly meant what he said, though it was expressed unintentionally.
6. They complement each other remarkably well. Their banter is engaging, and there is undeniable chemistry between them. They are like yin and yang: Sen is structured, while Shona embodies chaos.
7. No, Sen genuinely surprised me with that sweet and thoughtful gesture. It reveals how well he understands Shona.
8. The couple’s gesture was kind. I was raised with the philosophy that one should always extend kindness to others, and that the manner in which you treat people will eventually return to you many times over.
9. As the eldest, she has borne a significant share of responsibilities, and it is clear that her family often disregards her voice. She has consistently placed her family’s needs above her own.
10. Not particularly. Being an introvert, I mostly spent time with friends at school. Growing up, my best friend was my brother.
11. He likely realised how happy they both were, or could be, and then it dawned on him that their relationship had shifted into one of friends with benefits.
12. I was content with a brief mention. I appreciate that the focus remains on Shona and her relationships with friends and family.
13. Certainly, especially given how Anni encouraged Shona to approach the “accountant” and later teased Sen into going to the bar to find a girl for himself.
14. I do not think so. Given his uncertainty about where he and Shona stand, and considering his feelings for her, jealousy would be a natural response.
15. Definitely Sen.
16. The disparity was shocking to hear. Yet Shona has hinted that her family is deeply traditional, refusing even to change the name from Shah and Sons to Shah and Daughters. This suggests that her father may have preferred a son, thereby undervaluing her contributions and not compensating her fairly.
17. Shona already has a strained relationship with her family. I suspect there may be bitterness surrounding her success and perhaps jealousy on Aruna’s part.
18. I think he may have promised her that he would prioritise the family and her above the shop.
19. Sen seems more open with his emotions, while Shona is hesitant to share hers. Given that their relationship began as a fling, Sen may have overreacted when Shona withheld the truth. Ultimately, both struggle with miscommunication and must address this issue. Once they begin to communicate openly, their relationship dynamic will naturally evolve.
20. They must learn to communicate and share their true feelings with each other. Only once they rebuild trust will they be able to move forward.
21. Shona was likely afraid of Sen’s reaction. After all, he did describe her as chaos.
22. They both need to acknowledge the feelings they harbour and take the plunge into a committed relationship. Everyone around them can see their chemistry except themselves. Sen’s outburst demonstrates the depth of his emotions, and I hope this serves as a wake-up call for Shona.
23. Aruna is behaving immaturely, showing little understanding of her sister or appreciation for her hopes, dreams, and aspirations.
24. At first, I thought someone may have acted inappropriately with her; however given her hostility towards Shona, the reason may be connected with Shona in some way.
25. Sven’s introduction added yet another intriguing layer to the plot.
26. With all the miscommunication at play, they must have an honest conversation, share their feelings, and determine how to move forward before they can make their relationship public.
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1. I prefer savoury.
2. I think now that shes taking control of her life it can change this about her.
3. I am a morning person!
4. I am the person who needs to be motivated because I live more cautiously.
5. I think he does, he seems more willing to make an effort that she does.
6. I think Sen is good for Shona and they make each other happy. They also have a great history together.
7. I did expect him to come.
8. I think that was extremely generous of them.
9. I think family businesses have a way of blurring the lines between work and personal matters and she was the most responsible/knowledgeable to handle the business so there was pressure on her to run the business.
10. My childhood didnt really have a place but it was my grandparents house.
11. He was trying to ignore his true feelings for her.
12. I would have preferred to see what happened in the meeting with Felicity. Just to see how Shona handles her business matters
13. I think a reader would say yes, they did but from their friends’ perspective, no, they have all been close friends for some time so I assume they dont overthink little interactions between Shona and Sen.
14. He shoudn’t have but i dont blame him.
15. It’s Sen!
16. I think her family doesnt value them as employees and focus too much on their business.
17. I would hope that it improves it and makes them proud.
18. He promised her that the shop will be a success and she could pursue her passion of being a hairdresser.
19. I wish we had more on this scene but yes, that idea is already there for them.
20. Admit their feelings and not fear them.
21. I think it’s hard for her to trust people given her past with her family and how unsupportive they are.
22. I would believe so.
23. I dont think so, Aruna does not know Shona’s reasons for her actions.
24. I think she actually looks up to Shona and possibly feels liek she cant live up to Shona’s standards.
25. It does, i feel a love triangle coming.
26. She might unintentionally, make him jealous with Sven or run into him.
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I always go for savoury and then opt for something sweet after!
I think Shona was not a morning person purely because she did not enjoy working at her family shop and so now that she is off doing her own things she will come to enjoy waking up in the morning.
I would like to think I am a bit of both. I like being awake when nobody else. When everything is still. It makes me feel like I can think clearer which is so weird.
I am probably the one that needs to be motived to do fun things purely because im an anxious overthinker so I need a little encouragement.
Oh 100% yes. Sen wants all in with Shona so him saying “for the long haul” is implying that he wants to be with Shona for the foreseeable future.
They say opposites attract and well shona and sen are quite different to each other but I like to think that their differences is what attracts them to each other. They both complement each other in the sweetest way possible.
I did not expect Sen to come back if I am being totally honest. It was a nice surprise.
The elderly couple helping Shona was incredibly kind of them and I feel like they knew she needed some help.
The Shop was all that Shona was taught to take care of. She was never taught to properly care for her own wellbeing and her parents were also very tunnel vision when it came to the shop, specifically her father. So from this its no surprise that Shonas needs and wants came second to the shop.
I unfortunately did not have a steady group of friends so I didnt really have a particular spot
that I would hang out.This was most likely when Sen came to the realisation that he loves Shona so that scared him a little resulting in him shutting her out and being a bit cold towards her.
Since this is a story about Shona and Sen I dont think diving deeper into the meeting with Felicity would have been necessary.
Shona and Sen definitely did! Their friends are very kind to not call them out on their bluff.
No he shouldnt have but I can also understand why he did as he obviously loves Shona and the idea of her being with someone else and not liking him is not great.
It has to be Sen that Shona used to love.
Its not so much so that her parents didnt give Shona a pay rise but rather that they probably couldnt afford to as the shop wasnt doing too well.
Shonas relationship with her parents is not a simple one as it is and with her becoming financially stable it will most likely create a little bit of a riff between them. Id like to think that her parents would be proud of her but from what we have seen they dont do well with change so this will be a massive pill to swallow.
Im assuming Shonahs dad promised her mother that he would spend less time at the shop and spend more time with family and perhaps travel and so on.
Sen going to the shop was unexpected but I think in his eyes he sees this thing that he and Shonah has going on as more than a fling. I hope that this does push them into seeing this as more than a fling.
They both need to be more honest with each other and communicate! they always seem to lack communication which results in one or the other assuming things.
Shonah is most likely embarrassed to tell Sen shes left the shop and feels like she may be judged for her actions thus lying to his face when he asks her about it. Sens outburst is valid to a certain extent, as Shonah doesnt owe him any explanation considering their relationship was based off of no indepth conversations. However, they have been spending more time together and talking to one another more so I can see why Sen would be upset about her lying and I can see this being a wake up call for Shonah.
Aruna is obviously overreacting as she is having a hard time helping their parents run the shop. So her accusing Shonah of being a drama queen is a stretch considering Shonah used to do everthing and Aruna would do nothing when it came to helping out at the shop.
Aruna probably quit dancing to help out at the shop.
The timing does seem suspicious but also adds another interesting element to the plot.
I hope she realises that in order to make this relationship work she needs to be honest with herself and with Sen. I think she will apologise for lying to him and just be more open with Sen.
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1) My favorite food item is French toast and bacon. I prefer a combination of both sweet and savory depending on my mood.
2) I don’t think her morning mood will change drastically however, I do think her mornings may become more structured. It is ok to not be a morning person, but one can chose to have chaotic mornings or structured and calmer mornings.
3) I am definitely a night owl. I love the calm and peace I feel when the world is at rest/asleep.
4) When I was younger, I used to be spontaneous and live in the moment, and I encouraged everyone to do the same. Now that I am older, calmer and a lot more rigid I require motivation to venture out of my comfort zone.
5) Yes, he certainly meant it with a double meaning. I think he is trying to subtly get his point across without scaring Shona.
6) Yes, I do think they complement each other well. Opposites attract and there is definitely a lot of attraction between the two of them.
7) Honestly no, I did not expect him to come back.
8) I loved that they returned her kindness by lowering the price for her. They knew she was a good person.
9) Running the shop seemed like it was all her responsibility only. She had no help, and it left little time for her to focus on herself or her needs; even something as simple as cooking or keeping her apartment neat and tidy.
10) Growing up we lived in a very close-knit community/street. My friends were the neighbors’ kids, and our hangout spot was a park down the road. It wasn’t very fancy, and the equipment was old and rusty, but we shared good memories there.
11) I think it’s because he realized he wanted more dates and moments with her where she is happy and where they are not just friends spending the day together.
12) As interested as I am in the love story I honestly would have liked to know what happened in the meeting.
13) Yes, they have. Anni definitely knows that something is going on, and Sam still seems a little clueless.
14) No, he should not have assumed that she was flirting, but his insecurities and jealousy got the better of him.
15) I think the boy from Shona’s past is Sen.
16) I think that the differences in her low salary and lack of increases from her parents compared to how well she is earning now illustrates how little her family valued her. It’s almost as though they intentionally restricted her finances so that she will always be dependent on them.
17) Shona’s financial stability that she now has will allow her to focus more on doing the things that will make her happy; as well as taking time off to relax. Her parents will no longer be able to control her and guilt trip her in to putting the shop first. They might view this as selfish and rebellious.
18) I’m going to assume that he promised her mother that he would always put her and the family first; yet he keeps breaking that promise and puts the shop first.
19) Sen feels hurt that Shona still doesn’t fully trust him and his feelings are valid; however, I think he is being a bit pushy and instead of showing Shona that she can talk to him he ends up pushing her away.
20) They need to evaluate and establish clear boundaries in terms of the type of relationship they have. They also need to communicate and understand what they both individually want from this relationship.
21) I think that Shona feels that telling Sen will make it all too real and force her to accept that her family really doesn’t care for her; and she is not ready to face that reality yet. So, she creates that fake bubble with Sen where she doesn’t have to face reality.
22) Sens outburst is valid; even though it’s a little pushy one can understand his frustration. He is trying to be supportive to Shona, but she doesn’t trust him enough to open up to him. I am hopeful that Shona will realize that Sen has always been there for her and that he truly cares for her more than just a friend.
23) No, I do not think this is true. Aruna is trying to guilt trip Shona into going back to working at the shop. Aruna is a spoilt brat who never had to work but now that Shona has left Aruna has had to take on all her responsibilities.
24) Honestly, I do not know but, if I had to speculate, I would say it’s because she and Shona were always competing thanks to their grandmother but since Shona was going to college Aruna felt like she had won and there was no need to compete anymore. It could also be because Shona will be away at college and Aruna will have to work more at the shop and wouldn’t have time to dance.
25) Call me gullible but I don’t think there’s anything suspicious about Sven. Remembering that this is Rally means that it’s very plausible that Sven is just being a good friendly neighbor.
26) I think Shona is finally realizing how much Sen means to her and that how much he supported her. I think she will finally admit her feelings to him (at least I hope so). -
Definitely something savoury. I associate sweets and my sweet tooth with desserts, so I need to start the day with something savoury.
It’s hard to say. I don’t know how much of her not being a morning person is because she genuinely doesn’t like mornings, or because she’s getting used to living a life that is completely on her own terms and just needs to get used to it and establish a new routine. Either way, both just make her super relatable 🤭
I’m a night owl through an through. I do my best thinking at night, and I’m weirdly more energetic and creative at night.
It honestly depends on what the dumb fun thing is. If it’s something that forces me out of my comfort zone, I may need some convincing/ external motivation. But if it’s an impulsive decision, I often make those and turn to someone else to convince them to do it with me so that I’m not the only one (kind of like an “if I’m going down, I’m taking you with me, bestie” situation😅).
Definitely. I think he likes her and wants to take the next step in their relationship. So I think he’s pushing the boundaries of their casual relationship to see what she’ll allow.
I think they both do and don’t compliment each other. There’s a lot that makes them different from each other (like their family lives, backgrounds, and how messy she is and how neat he is), and I like that they’re able to be together and genuinely enjoy each other’s company despite these differences. But I also think that in order for them to become more than just friends/ casual hookup partners, they need to compromise on the differences that make them incompatible (or just communicate in general).
Nope, but I like that he did it. It showed his potential to not let his feelings overshadow or undermine the positive (baby) steps they’re both taking in their relationship.
I think they were really sweet to do that. I like how they extended their kindness to Shona after she was kind to their granddaughter by helping her avoid a disaster on her wedding day. It also reflects what we were told about Rally: the people in town get together to help each other in times of need.
Her parents probably gave her way too much to do/ too much responsibility over the day to day operations of the shop, and it left her with no time or energy to take care of herself (so she prioritised the needs of the support and her family over her own needs).
In high school, my friends and I would meet outside of this one classroom before school. It was far away from the field, so there was peace and quiet and we could just talk about anything and everything. In university, my friends and I flocked to a place on campus that one of my friends was working at, and we’d keep her company, virtually attend lectures together, have movie days there, and have a lot of fun being in each other’s presence.
He was probably trying to suppress his sudden, overwhelming rush of feelings towards her, and that outwardly expressed itself as disinterest in her passion at the fabric shop.
I think Nivashni’s writing style is great as is: she gives you just enough to know what happened in terms of major plot points, but lingers on moments that show and build the relationships between the characters. Glossing over the meeting with Felicity also gives us a feel for all the changes that are happening all at once for Shona, so I didn’t mind it.
Oh most definitely. But I think Sam is oblivious and Anni definitely knows/ suspects something and was toying with them to have her fun.
I think both Sen and Shona tend to make a lot of assumptions when it comes to each other, but considering their casual relationship has been making slow steps toward becoming an actual relationship, I can understand why he would be jealous and assume she was flirting (especially since Anni, their closest friend, implied that that’s what she was doing).
It was definitely Sen. She wouldn’t have been as vague with the details about the boy in front of Sen if she was referring to Hunter (the same way she outright told Sen she was in a relationship with Hunter later on in life).
I thought it was really great that she’s able to be successful in her dream career, but I also feel so sorry for her with this new detail about just how exploited she was when she was working for her parents at the shop.
I think it will bother her parents to know that she isnt financially dependant on them, and to have evidence of the fact that she’s earning a lot more than what she did at the shop. I’m sure her parents will be concerned about the optics of that, considering everyone knows everything in Rally, and they’ll get a few side-eyes from the community for that. It could lead to some resentment from them towards Shona, or some resentment from Shona towards her parents as she keeps making these realisations about just how much pressure her parents out on her shoulders, just how many expectations, without compensating her for it in either emotional or financial stability.
He probably promised that once the shop reaches a certain amount of success that pleases his mother, they’d be able to pull back some of their attention and energy towards the shop and be able to shift the focus to their family.
I hoped it would’ve led to him gently coaxing the truth out of her and showing her that she could count on him as a pillar of support (and this would strengthen their relationship/ lead to a huge leap towards them finally putting a label on it). But nope.
They need to communicate without letting the hurt and anger from their assumptions (about what the other is doing or feeling or withholding) cloud their ability to listen to and understand each other.
She was probably ashamed of the fact that she and her family aren’t on speaking terms because of her choosing to pursue her dream. Sen has a strong relationship with his family, so I think Shona didn’t want her complicated, messy life (in her view) by comparison to make her feel like an unworthy partner for him.
I thought it was surprising and immature. I can understand why he’s hurt but instead of talking things through with her or giving her the space to process or vocalise her emotions about what happened, he internalises her refusal to talk about it as her not trusting him, or as a personal attack on him as a friend. Him calling what they’re doing messy and likening it to who she is was something he definitely needs to clear up or apologise for in future.
However, while I don’t like his outburst, I do think that him leaving their relationship will get her to reevaluate his role in her life, and what she actually wants from this relationship with him.I don’t think that’s true. I think Shona finally spoke her mind and stood up for herself and her sister (who is feeling her absence now that she’s no longer in the shop to do all the work) is lashing out.
I think she quit dancing for the same reason Shona shelved her dream of becoming a wedding designer: she probably felt like the shop had to come first/ the crushing obligation of her father’s expectations.
The timing is definitely suspicious. I’m hoping he’s a friend and not a love interest. The last thing Shona needs right now is a love triangle.
I think she’ll take some time to figure out what she wants, then contact him and tell him about her thoughts and feelings about what happened at the shop, showing him that she does trust him. Then they’ll rekindle their relationship.
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Q – Shona orders waffles for breakfast. What is your favourite food item to order for breakfast? Something sweet? Or something savoury?
A – I have been loving a cheddar and cream cheese sourdough toasted sandwich recently. The sourdough I get is a red pepper flavour and is divineQ – It’s clear that Shona is not a morning person. Do you think this will change now that she is branching off on her own?
A – I think that it could. I dont think that she was enjoying working at the shop so she was dreading it? Then again, she may just not be a morning person and that is okay tooQ – Are you a morning person or a night owl?
A – Unfortunately, I am both so this means that I end up permanently exhausted 😀Q – Are you someone who motivates others to do “dumb fun things”, or are you the person that needs to be motivated?
A – A bit of both, I think I encourage people to do stuff but sometimes when it comes to me doing it myself, I hesitateQ – Do you think Sen meant to imply a double meaning with being in it “for the long haul”?
A – I definitely think so and I love it!!Q – As we get to know Shona and Sen, do you think they complement each other well? Not only as friends but perhaps something more?
A – Yes! I’ve thought from the start that they complement each other perfectlyQ – Did you expect Sen to come back with food after their awkward goodbye?
A – I did not but I’m so glad that he didQ – Shona has had a rocky living situation and when explaining where she stayed first, it sounds like the worst place. What do you think of the elderly couple helping Shona by lowering the price?
A – I think that it is so sweet of them and I feel that she deserved it after her grandmother being so meanQ – Why do you think running the shop got in the way of Shona cooking for herself and looking after her place?
A – I think as an elder daughter, she put everything before herself and when it came to her, she just didnt bother anymore – I feel so seen!Q – While lying in bed, Sen reminisces about his childhood with Shona and Anni. Did you also have a particular place that was THE place where you and your friends would hangout?
A – At school, there was this one spot and then at my friends house, the wall – it sounds weird but it workedQ – Why do you think Sen was cold towards Shona when they were at the fabric shop?
A – I think that he realised that he wants more but that he shouldnt get involved with her because it may mess up their friendship and it makes him angry / want to put some distance between themQ – The author glances over the meeting with Felicity. Would you have preferred to see what happened in the meeting or are you more interested in the relationships between the characters?
A – I would have liked to have seen more fromt he meeting but I think that the author covered it well enoughQ – Chapter Five is the first time we see the infamous friend group together. Do you think Sen and Shona may have given themselves away?
A – I feel like Anni and Sam already know, which is why Anni keeps needling Shona and Sen about her relationship and keeps pushing them to flirt with others – I think she wants them to realise what they haveQ – Do you think Sen should have been so quick to assume that Shona was flirting with the accountant?
A – I think it’s natural because he is jealousQ – Who do you think was the boy in Shona’s past that she used to love? Do you think it is Hunter or Sen?
A – I definitely think that it’s Sen but that Shona won’t want to tell him thatQ – What do you think of the salary difference between Shona’s job at the shop versus her working for herself? What do you think of the fact that her parents never gave her a pay rise?
A – I think that it’s incredibly unfair of her parents. Her family was taking her for granted and taking advantage of her. I’m so glad that my parents were not like thisQ – The career path Shona is now heading on allows her to be more financially stable. How do you think this will impact her relationship with her parents?
A – I think that it is best that she stepped away from the family business and once her family gets over their misdirected feelings of betrayal, the relationship will improveQ – It seems that the shop has always come first. What do you think Shona’s dad promised her mother?
A – I think that he may have promised ther that she could have her own business or that they could take more holidays. Probably more work/life balance but then he listened to his mother insteadQ – Sen went looking for Shona at her family’s shop. What do you think of this and the events that subsequently followed? Do you think the two of them will stop thinking about this relationship as a fling?
A – I think it’s sweet that he made an excuse to see her but I think he’s justified for being upset. I had actually missed that she hadn’t told him and that is a bit weird for me. I hope that this is the impetus for them seeing it as moreQ – What sort of steps do you think both need to take to make this relationship a real one?
A – I think that they need to acknowledge their feelings and deal with themQ – Why do you think Shona didn’t tell Sen that she had quit the shop? Why do you think she also lied to him after he asked her about it?
A – I’m not sure. She may be scared of relying on him emotionallyQ – What do you think of Sen’s outburst? Do you think this will be the wake-up call Shona needed?
A – I hope so!Q -It seems like everyone has something to say to Shona. When Aruna arrives at Shona’s apartment, Aruna accuses Shona of being a drama queen. Do you think this is truly the case?
A – No, I think that Aruna is selfish and doesn’t want to do more than she does already and she’s being forced to now that Shona has leftQ – Why do you think Aruna quit dancing?
A – I’m not sure. It may have been someone saying that it is not a real career? This is a thing in Indian families unfortunatelyQ – Sven has quickly entered Shona’s life. And by that we mean, the timing seems suspicious, doesn’t it?
A – It is a little, will he come between her and Sam? I think they are end gameQ – When talking to Sven, Shona corrects him and says that Sen is not her boyfriend. Not long after their interaction ends, Shona corrects herself and says Sen is “a boyfriend”. What do you think she will do to win him back?
A – I think she may realise how much he means to her and will try harder to bring him back -
1. Definitely Sweet , Pancakes with good amount of butter and golden syrup
it takes me back to when i was a little girl and my grandmother would make pancakes just before leaving for school.
2. Maybe a little. I think having her own space and following her own schedule might make mornings a little easier for her.
3. A Night Owl, I feel more relaxed in the evenings. Mornings is not for me
4. I’m usually the one who needs a little push to do things , but once I’m convinced , I’m all in and end up having fun with everyone
5. Yes I think he did , cause he really wants something more with Shona
6. Yes definitely, They balance each other out , They understand each other in a way no once else really does.
7. Not really , But it was such a sweet surprise, he still shows that he cares about her .
8. I thought it was really kind of them to do that , it shows how small act of kindness can make a big difference for someone else .
9. Shona was probably too drained , the shop took up most of her time and energy which ended up leaving her with no space to care for herself.
10. Yes, for me other then meeting my friends in school, I would hangout at my friends house , she didn’t live far so it was easy for us to meet up and enjoy time together, plus opposite her house was the park so it made it even better
11. I think he realized he wanted more with Shona, his was confused he didn’t know how to deal with his feelings .
12. I would love to see more with what happened at the meeting
13. A little. I really think Anni had picked up on something between Sen and Shona.
14. No, He definitely overreacted , He should have trusted her instead of jumping to conclusions , he clearly was jealous
15. I think it was Sen. Theres too much emotion between them for it to be anyone else
16. It’s unfair that her parents never gave her a raise, it almost feels like they didn’t value her hard work . working for herself finally gives her the recognition she deserves
17. It might cause some tension at first , but I think it will also make her more confident in standing up for herself
18. I think he promised the family and her will be put first but Shona’s dad always put the shop first.
19. Sen and Shona needs to be more opened about their emotions with each other.
20 . They both need to communicate honestly and stop hiding their feelings for each other , Trust and openness will make their bond stronger for each other
21. She was probably scared of disappointment, even now that her family is not reaching out to her.
22. Yes it was . it probably made her realized how serious her feelings are for Sen
23. Not really, I think cause Shona had given up all her responsibility it now falls onto Aruna and now she stuck to do everything
24. Maybe she lost the passion for it , or life just got in the way. Sometimes dreams fade when reality takes over.
25. Definity, like he showed up right when she was most vulnerable, I really hope its not a love triangle cause then things will be really rocky
26. I think she finally being honest with herself and him, she may reach out , apologize and show him how she wants something real this time
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