Have you ever wondered how a relationship tied between two strangers becomes a lifelong support?<br /> <br /> This is the story of Akshay and Aahana — two hearts from different worlds, yet bound by a single thread.<br /> <br /> Their journey, which b... Have you ever wondered how a relationship tied between two strangers becomes a lifelong support?<br /> <br /> This is the story of Akshay and Aahana — two hearts from different worlds, yet bound by a single thread.<br /> <br /> Their journey, which began after an arranged marriage, sometimes battles the storms of misunderstandings, and sometimes soaks in the rain of love.<br /> <br /> In this struggle to fulfill the vows of marriage, they not only save the relationship from breaking, but also become that part of each other's lives that can never be separated.<br /> <br /> This story will tell you that a true life partner is one who holds your hand at every turn — no matter how difficult the path may be.<br /> <br /> 'Ibadat-e-Ishq' (Worship of Love) is a journey where love blossoms with time and trust heals every wound.<br />
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Kanpur
It was the month of June-July. It was neither too cold nor too hot. Kanpur is an industrial metropolis located in the Kanpur Nagar district of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This city is situated on the southern bank of the river Ganga. Located 80 kilometers west of Lucknow, the state capital, this city is also known as the industrial capital of the state. Kanpur is situated on the banks of the river Ganga and because of this, the city is home to many ghats.
In Kanpur's Nawabganj, where Atal Ghat is located, stands a three-story house... Shukla Niwas... where Mr. Jitendra Shukla lives with his wife, Jayanti ji, and their four children.
Shukla ji was a teacher in a government school and retired last year due to increasing health problems. Jayanti ji's health is also not very good. She has had pain problems for years, and when the problem gets worse, she has difficulty moving around.
But she did not leave any stone unturned in raising her four children. She gave them a better education and values. Their eldest son, Drishant... being the eldest child, is naturally calm, patient, thoughtful, and sensible. After Shukla ji, he handles the entire responsibility of the household and works as a manager in an MNC. He worships his parents like gods, respects and honors them, and dotes on his younger siblings.
Drishant's marriage is fixed, and his future wife, Pallavi, is a childhood friend of his sister, Aahana. It is a love marriage that is being arranged with the consent and blessings of the family.
After Drishant comes Aahana, who is two years younger than him. Aahana, who is her father's shadow... a girl of calm nature, sensible and patient. She is beautiful, fair-complexioned, well-built, with an attractive character and commendable personality.
Aahana, the apple of her parents' eye, is their pride... calm and gentle by nature, but not weak. She has faced many difficulties in life and has become quite strong, but she is simple in her behavior. The glow of self-confidence is an integral part of her character. Following in her father's footsteps, she started her career as a teacher two years ago.
Aahana's younger sister is Antara. The two sisters are poles apart in their nature. While Aahana is a girl of calm nature, who likes simplicity and is sensible, Antara is a chatterbox, cheerful, mischievous, eccentric, and greedy. She is famous throughout Kanpur...
Self-centered Antara is a bit dark in complexion but possesses sharp features, a strong personality, and is so lovely that she can win anyone's heart at first glance. Antara, who likes to live life fearlessly and openly, only listens to her heart, but she is devoted to her elder sister.
The youngest brother is Nishant... he follows exactly in Antara's footsteps. He is two years younger than her, but the two fight like twins. Antara dominates him, but Nishant also takes full advantage of it, and the entire Shukla family is troubled by their mischief.
So, this is the Shukla family of Kanpur, where each person has a different nature, but there is abundant love in their relationships.
It is nighttime, and everyone in Shukla Niwas is sleeping in their rooms after dinner. The lights in all the rooms are off, but the light in Aahana's room is still on, and in that room, Aahana and Antara are sitting together.
Antara has Aahana's phone in her hand, and a picture of a boy is on its screen. Aahana has a novel in her hand, and as she turns its pages, she seems lost in thought.
"Didi, the boy this time looks good."
Hearing Antara's words, Aahana agreed without any expression.
"Hmm... he looks good, and brother said he has a good nature too. He is a doctor by profession, currently working in a private hospital. His family is also well-off... they have chosen the boy carefully."
"If Uncle has seen the boy, it must be good, but I don't believe in hearsay."
Aahana said nothing to Antara's statement. She seemed lost in thought.
After a few moments, Antara spoke again, "Didi, I heard that this time the boy is also coming with his family to see you."
"So?" Aahana now turned her gaze to look at Antara.
"So what... you should get a good look at the boy. He should be a match for my Didi... If he is some nobody, I will immediately refuse the proposal... My Didi looks like a princess, so a prince charming riding a white horse will come for her. One who will love her very much and cherish her."
Hearing Antara's words and seeing her childishness, Aahana laughed, then gently touched her cheek and said,
"Come out of your fairytale world, Antara. There are no princes or princesses in real life."
"Still, Didi. The boy should be such that he matches you. One who loves you a lot so that you never miss us, one who never lets tears come into your eyes, one who never lets you be sad."
"But what good will it do if we wish?... Matches are made in heaven, and we will be married to whoever Mahadev has chosen for us... This is life, Antara. There is always happiness and sorrow, laughter and tears. Therefore, your life partner should be someone who can support you in all joys and sorrows, who respects and honors you before loving you."
"Exactly like Papa?" Antara said with a sparkle in her eyes, and in return, Aahana smiled. People say, girls often look for their fathers in their life partners. Especially those girls who are their father's angels, their darlings, their pride, and their glory. Perhaps Aahana was also looking for such a life partner.
"Anyway, Papa has seen the boy. He and brother like the boy, and I trust their judgment."
"Even then, Didi, we will hand her over to them only after thoroughly vetting them... You just sit with your eyes closed and remember your deity; we will scrutinize the boy... And if we don't like the boy, the marriage will not happen at any cost."
Antara said with a cunning smile, and hearing her words, worry appeared on Aahana's face.
"Antara, you will not do anything childish this time."
Aahana warned her with a stern gaze, and Antara agreed like a well-behaved child.
"Yes, yes... we won't, but we will definitely test the boy and ask him lots of questions. We won't just give our Didi to any random person."
"I'm starting to get scared of you." Aahana looked at her, disturbed. Perhaps there was something that was making Aahana worried. Hearing Aahana, Antara said in a serious tone,
"Don't be scared, Didi... he should be scared... Listen, tomorrow when the boy comes to see you and you both are sent alone to talk, cast aside all your shyness, modesty, and hesitation and resort to shamelessness, and ask all the questions that are in your heart, only then make any decision, and especially make sure to find out if he has a girlfriend already?...
You know Parul's sister, right?... Two days after the wedding, her husband ran away with his girlfriend, and their whole life was ruined. You almost had the same fate, so I'm saying it beforehand, find out properly if there's any affair going on, and also ask if he likes non-vegetarian food.
You know you can't stand the smell of non-vegetarian food... What if you have to cook non-vegetarian food for everyone after getting married, and you start vomiting and get into trouble.
"What's the use of asking, Antara? The one who speaks can also lie."
"Didi, you leave it, I will handle everything myself," Antara said irritably and went to lie down. Aahana glanced at Antara, then, looking worried, she looked at the shining picture on her phone screen. Once again, strange expressions appeared on her face, and a storm of thoughts raged in her mind. The lines on her forehead revealed her worry, and her heart also seemed restless.
Delhi (Sehgal Niwas)
"Brother, did you see the girl's photo?" a handsome boy of 21-22 years asked, sprawling on the bed, his gaze fixed on the boy standing in front of the dressing table.
Nearly 6 feet tall, well-built physique, strong personality, attractive demeanor, a glow of confidence on his handsome face and deep black eyes... name, Akshay Sehgal. The eldest son of the Sehgal family, his mother's obedient darling son. He is a doctor by profession... his other personality traits will be revealed with time.
Akshay heard his younger brother Anvay's question and turned his gaze towards him, adjusting his wet hair with his fingers.
"I have seen it... But why have you come to my room so late to ask this?" Akshay asked, raising an eyebrow. Anvay sat up and said seriously,
"No, I came to ask you how you liked the girl and if you are coming with us to see the girl tomorrow?... Are you planning to escape to the hospital midway like last time?"
"Is this possible with Mom around?... She clearly said that I have to go see the girl tomorrow, so I have to go."
Akshay said in a slightly annoyed tone. Hearing his words, the expression on Anvay's face changed. He looked at him with wide eyes and said in surprise,
"Meaning, if Mom hadn't forced you, you had no intention of coming with us... This means you are not interested in meeting the girl... Meaning, you don't like the girl."
"I'm feeling sleepy, Anvay. You are free all day, but I am terribly tired, and tomorrow I have to drive from Delhi to Kanpur, which will be quite tiring, so let me sleep now."
Akshay completely ignored Anvay's words and gestured for him to leave, looking at him with tired eyes. Hearing him, Anvay pouted, got off the bed, and as he left the room, he said,
"I liked the girl... among all the girls I've seen for you so far, she's the best, a perfect match for you. As for you, do whatever you want."
Anvay left, making a sulky face. After he left, Akshay closed the door and then sat on the bed. He picked up his phone from the side table and opened the gallery. The very first picture caught his attention...
Akshay touched that photo, and the next moment, the picture spread across his phone's entire screen. It was a girl in a lovely light sky-blue suit, with her dupatta tucked close to her neck. Her open hair cascaded down to her waist, her face was like a fair moon, her eyelashes were lowered. She was quite beautiful, and Akshay's gaze lingered on her lowered lashes.
He stared silently at the picture for a few moments, which his father, Abhijit Sehgal ji, had sent him that morning.
"What is hidden behind these lowered lashes that is attracting my gaze?... This innocent face and the radiance of confidence on it... There is something about you that makes my heart eager to meet you. Your name is also so lovely... Aahana... I don't know what connection I have with you that for the first time my gaze has lingered on a girl's face, and I, who always makes excuses to avoid girl-meeting sessions, have agreed to come and see you.
I'm surprised at myself, but what can I do? I'm helpless in the hands of my heart, which has unknowingly imprinted your image. My eyes are eager to see you in person... And this desire of mine is what will bring me to your city tomorrow to meet you...
I don't know what this meeting will bring, I don't know what you will be like, how much you will live up to the image I have formed of you... I don't even know what I will say to you? ... I don't know if you will be as eager to meet me as I am.
I don't know what will be in your heart... I don't know if you will feel these emotions that are making my mind restless... Will I be able to meet the qualities you are looking for in your life partner? ...
For the first time in my life, I feel a strange nervousness today, as if I am going to give the most important exam of my life, which will decide my future, and my entire life depends on this decision... Now everything is in the hands of Mahadev, and I have complete faith in him that he will make the best decision for my life."
Akshay stared silently at Aahana's picture for a few moments, then switched off his phone and kept it aside and lay down on the bed.
Coming soon…
The next day, the sun was high in the sky. Ahana, having slept late the night before, had still not woken up.
Down in the drawing-room, Jitendra Ji was sitting and reading the newspaper. The cup of tea on the table had been waiting for him for who knows how long. Finally, Jitendra Ji's attention went to it. He pushed the newspaper aside and picking up the teacup, said,
"Where are our two fortunate daughters?"
In response to his question, Jayanti Ji's flustered voice came from the kitchen,
"How would we know where they are? Neither of them has left their room yet. I'll go and see now, I don't even know if they've woken up yet."
As she spoke, she came out of the kitchen and moved towards the stairs. Just as she started climbing the stairs, Dryshank entered the house through the door.
"Have you come back after dropping Nishant?" Jitendra Ji, casting a cursory glance at him, returned to his most important task... reading the remaining news in his newspaper. Dryshank nodded in agreement.
"Yes, Papa, I dropped him off."
He placed the car keys on the table and, sitting next to his father, turned on the television. As soon as the news started, both father and son began listening intently to world news. This was their daily routine, to which they had both become accustomed. Their day would neither start nor end without watching the news, and they often found themselves debating while watching it together.
In this house, everyone had the right to express their point of view, and the master of the house had taught all his children to voice their opinions without fear and to fight for the truth. Their youngest daughter had taken this lesson a bit too seriously, which resulted in frequent complaints about her various escapades at home.
Anyway, that was the story of every day. Let's get back to the main narrative. When Jayanti Ji reached the room, Antara's side of the bed was empty, while Ahana was still sleeping, her head buried in the pillow. The curtains on the room's window were drawn, and the night bulb was on, making the room still quite dark.
Jayanti Ji first turned on the main light, pulled back the curtains from the window, and opened the balcony door, allowing the golden rays of the sun to spread throughout the room. Then, she sat near Ahana's head and, stroking her hair lovingly with her palm, called out to her,
"Anu, dear, you've slept quite late today. Look, the sun is already high in the sky. Come on, wake up now, you don't have to go to school today, or you'll be late."
Hearing her words, Ahana stirred in her sleep, then rested her head in her mother's lap and, covering her face with her sari's pallu, mumbled sleepily,
"I have to go, Mom, just let me sleep for a little longer. I fell asleep very late last night."
"My child, wake up now. You need to go to school, finish your work, and return quickly. Today, prospective grooms are coming to see you."
At first, Ahana struggled in her sleep, but as soon as the last words reached her ears, all her sleep vanished in an instant. She sat up abruptly, pushing her disheveled hair away from her eyes, and called out to them,
"Mom."
"Yes, dear." Jayanti Ji began to lovingly arrange her scattered hair. Ahana pouted and looked at them with sad eyes, saying,
"Mom... can't the grooms' visit be postponed?"
"What happened, dear?" Jayanti Ji was surprised by her words, wondering what could be the matter. In response, Ahana lowered her head.
"It's just, Mummy, I don't feel right about it."
"Is the matter from last time still bothering you?" Lines of worry appeared on Jayanti's forehead, and she seemed a bit troubled. Seeing the old matter brought up, Ahana shook her head in denial.
"No, Mom, it's not that... I'm just feeling nervous."
"Forget what happened, dear... it was the result of our carelessness, but this time, after carefully seeing and hearing everything and investigating, we have invited the prospective grooms home. Moreover, they are acquaintances of your uncle. You know how much they care for you; they wouldn't suggest a wrong match for you."
She explained to her with great affection. Agreeing with her words, Ahana said with a hint of sadness,
"Mom, we know, but why do you all want to get me married so quickly?"
The same question that perhaps every girl asks her parents. After all, which chirping bird from her father's nest wants to leave that nest? Everyone loves their maternal home and their father's home. One never feels like leaving. Hearing her sensible daughter's question, Jayanti Ji couldn't help but smile.
"What's the hurry, dear? You're turning 27, and a suitable match isn't found in a day... We are still searching, and only when a good match is found will the matter proceed. And besides, we aren't getting you married right now... First, your brother will get married. Yes, if we find a good boy and a good family, we will finalize the proposal. We won't send you away so quickly."
"Mom, is getting married really necessary? Can't you keep me with you forever?"
"My darling... no matter how much daughters are loved by their parents, one day they have to get their daughter married and send her away. This is the most important duty of parents towards their daughter, and no one can shy away from it. We also have to face society; if we keep our daughter at home for her entire life, will society let us live with respect?... Parents' honor lies in giving their daughter a respectable send-off from home, but a send-off doesn't mean you become someone else's. You are our daughter, and you will always be. This home is yours, and it will always remain yours. You are our sensible daughter; understand your mother's words. Your father and I will only say what is for your own good."
Ahana was silenced by her logic and nodded silently. Jayanti Ji stroked her cheek and kissed her.
"Our sensible child. Come on, get up, leave all your worries behind, and get ready quickly. We'll have breakfast."
Ahana nodded and got out of bed, moving towards the wardrobe. Just as Jayanti Ji turned to leave, Antara's displeased voice reached her ears,
"All the love is just for Jijji, don't you have anything for me?"
Hearing the voice, Jayanti Ji turned and saw Antara standing at the bathroom door, looking at her with angry eyes.
"When we get you married, we will love you too."
"Oh, so this love is a bribe... like how a goat is worshipped before being sacrificed, you'll shower me with love before sending me to the gallows of marriage... then please, Mother, we don't want such affection. We have no desire to hang on any such gallows."
Antara made a sour face, then shook her hair and moved towards the dressing table, while both Ahana and Jayanti Ji stared at her in surprise. But Antara began getting ready nonchalantly. Jayanti Ji shook her head helplessly and left, while Ahana continued to look at the surprised and troubled Antara. First, Antara deliberately ignored her, then turned towards her and said,
"Jijji, I was just kidding. Can anyone sacrifice me when I'm here?... You chill and leave everything to me. Why fear when Antara is here? I will handle everything and everyone."
Antara winked mischievously and, with a carefree response, came and hugged her. She was well aware of her boldness, her mischief, and her quirky antics. If she had said it, she would definitely find some solution, but she would never let her Jijji be tied into a wrong relationship, even if it meant standing alone against the entire family... she didn't care, she didn't care if she had to face everyone's scolding, she didn't care, even if she had to bear punishment in return, she didn't care. She only cared about her Jijji's happiness.
Hearing her words, expressions of relief appeared on Ahana's worried face. She affectionately touched her cheek and smiled.
"If you just curbed your mischief a little, you'd be the world's best sister."
"And however I am today, I am the world's bestest Jijji," Antara chirped and kissed her cheek. Ahana laughed at her antics, and Antara burst into laughter as well.
Ahana came out after getting ready. By then, everyone else had already sat down for breakfast, and Jayanti Ji was serving everyone their favorite breakfast. As Ahana sat down after wishing everyone good morning, a plate of poha along with a glass of juice was placed before her.
Ahana looked at her mother with a gentle smile on her lips. Her mother lovingly patted her head, told her to eat, and went back to the kitchen.
"Anu, dear, come home early." Jitendra Ji casually told her while having breakfast, to which Ahana nodded with her head bowed. Antara's sharp hawk-like eyes noticed the clouds of sadness gathering on her face and immediately drew Ahana's attention.
"Jijji, drop me at college on the way too, I'm getting late, and my Dhanno has been unwell since yesterday."
Antara's attempt worked, and forgetting her troubles, Ahana focused all her attention on her.
"So why haven't you got your Dhanno treated?"
As soon as she asked, Antara, with a pitiful face, quickly replied,
"How could I get her treated?... Bhaiya has halved my pocket money; I didn't have any money."
"Then you also waste money unnecessarily. Sometimes you go for movies, sometimes for lunch outside, and if that doesn't satisfy you, you go to the mall."
Dryshank immediately pointed out her mistakes and scolded her, and Antara made a face like an innocent child, as if a mountain of sorrow had fallen upon her after being scolded.
"Bhaiya, this is the age to do all this. Once responsibilities come upon you, you'll only be able to remember these carefree days." As soon as the madam Antara's well-being was inquired about, all her sadness vanished in an instant, and calling out "Jijji," she hugged Ahana sitting beside her.
While Ahana smiled at her childishness, Dryshank shook his head helplessly. He had finished breakfast, so he washed his hands, took out his wallet, and placed two 500-rupee notes in front of her.
"Here, get your Dhanno treated today, and if it's not enough, give me a call; I'll transfer it online."
"Thank you, Bhaiya." Antara quickly took the money, giving a big smile, while Dryshank nodded and got up to leave. Antara now turned her gaze and, with a cute face, blinked her eyelids... her attempt to butter them up was successful. Ahana also took out money from her purse and handed it to her, gently tapping her head and explaining,
"Don't waste so much money unnecessarily; if one day Bhaiya gets angry, we won't be able to save you either."
"Then I'll run straight to Papa; he'll make Bhaiya listen by holding his ears... won't he, Papa?" Antara turned to Jitendra Ji, as if requesting him to endorse her confidence. Jitendra Ji, who was smiling faintly at his youngest darling's antics, nodded in agreement. As soon as he agreed, Antara smiled proudly at her plan, thinking that no one could harm her now.
She put the money away and was about to get up when Jayanti Ji's voice came from behind,
"Antara, come home early today; there's a lot of work."
"Mother, if you command it, I won't go to college today." Antara had struck a six instead of a four at the opportune moment. Who on earth wanted to go to college?... If it were up to her, she would have gotten rid of her studies long ago, and even now, she tried to escape whenever she got the chance. So today, she wanted to take advantage of the opportunity again, but Dryshank, sitting on the sofa, poured a bucketful of water on all her intentions.
"Absolutely not, you go to college quietly. This girl has no interest in studies; she just wants an excuse to escape from studying, but that won't happen. Reach college quietly, and I'll drop you myself today, and be home by afternoon. If I see you wandering around the streets after leaving college, you're in trouble today."
Dryshank's usual stern demeanor and this unnecessary threat. Poor Antara's mood was completely ruined. Making a sour face, she cursed him mentally and said irritably,
"I won't go with you; I'll go with Jijji."
"But I'm going with Bhaiya today, and Pallavi is also coming along. You come too."
Antara made a sour face after hearing Ahana's words. She didn't want to, but when necessary, one has to bow down to anyone, so reluctantly, she accepted her grumpy Bhaiya.
Soon...
A little later, the three arrived outside. Pallavi arrived at the same time. She had a lightly dusky complexion and attractive features, wearing an orange suit with her dupatta draped from her shoulder. Her damp hair, reaching a little below her shoulders, was clipped back and left open. Even in her simple appearance, she looked very lovely. Drishant’s gaze seemed to linger on her, while Pallavi glanced at him fleetingly before moving towards Antara and Ahana.
"Hello Bhabhi Jaan, how are you?....... You've made an appearance after so many days," Antara started as soon as Pallavi arrived.
In response, Pallavi lovingly tugged at her cheek.
"I met you the day before yesterday, you drama queen," Antara said, hiding her embarrassment with a sheepish laugh. Then, glaring sideways at Drishant, she said, "Bhabhi Jaan, out of the whole world, this is the only stiff and rude person you found to have a playful romance with?"
"Antara," Drishant sternly cut her off.
At this, Antara glared at him fearlessly. Pallavi, looking at Drishant with a sideways glance, replied,
"Antara, you must have heard the saying, 'When the heart desires a monkey, what is a fairy?'"
Wow! What an insult delivered while standing! He was smoldering from within, and Madam Antara had added the finishing touch.
"Read the saying correctly, Bhabhi Jaan... So, it goes... 'When the heart desires a monkey, what is a grape?'" Antara also playfully pulled his leg, and the two burst into laughter. Poor Ahana would sometimes look at these two, and sometimes at her brother's face flushing with anger.
Just as the sister-in-law and sister-in-law duo were busy laughing, Drishant's stern voice reached their ears.
"Are we leaving or not?..... I don't have any extra time to waste. Get inside quickly, or I'll leave you both here and go," he threatened in plain words, and the effect was soon evident. Antara and Pallavi stopped laughing and got inside and sat down the next moment. Drishant shook his head with regret, gestured something to Ahana with his eyes, and sat in the driver's seat himself. Ahana sat in the passenger seat, and the car moved forward.
All the way, Antara and Pallavi, sitting in the back, continued their nonsensical talk and laughter, with Ahana occasionally joining in. At that moment, if anyone saw the three of them, they would think Pallavi was Antara's friend, not Ahana's. They had the same nature and got along very well. And when the two were together, they wouldn't refrain from teasing Drishant.
Drishant's entire focus was on driving, his face calm and serious... but if one looked closely, it could be noticed that his eyes had glanced at Pallavi, sitting in the back, multiple times in the rearview mirror... and whenever her cheerful laughter reached Drishant's ears, his facial expressions would change slightly, and the corners of his lips would also curl up.
Well, the journey passed. First, Antara was dropped off at her college, then the car stopped outside Ahana and Pallavi's school. As Pallavi was opening the gate, Drishant's stern voice struck her ears.
"You stay, I need to talk to you."
Hearing his words, both Ahana and Pallavi, in the process of opening the gate, stopped and looked at him in surprise, but Drishant's demeanor was towards Pallavi.
After glancing at Pallavi, he turned his attention towards Ahana.
"Ahana, you go inside. Pallavi will be here in five minutes."
"Yes, brother," she replied, nodding like an obedient child, and got out of the car. Now, only Drishant and Pallavi remained there. Pallavi nervously glanced around, her knuckles tightening on the strap of her purse, and muttered to herself,
"Your doom has arrived... caught by Hitler, now there's no one to save you... Oh Pallavi, you're done for today. You won't be spared today, the way you teased him, this executioner won't let you go today."
Poor Pallavi was busy cursing herself, thinking about her impending doom, when a steady, slow, but stern voice came from very close by.
"What were you saying to Antara?"
Hearing the voice, Pallavi, startled, came out of her thoughts. She turned her gaze in the direction of the voice and, seeing Drishant sitting beside her, she recoiled in fear.
"I... I wasn't saying anything..." Her breath hitched in panic, and her tongue stumbled.
"How can you say you weren't saying anything... you were speaking, and you were laughing a lot..."
His tone clearly showed anger and displeasure, and his piercing gaze was fixed on her. Pallavi's life was stuck in her throat, so she immediately shook her head in denial in a hurry... but Drishant began to glare at her again.
"A monkey... is that what you called me?"
Drishant reminded her of what she had said, and Pallavi, biting her tongue between her teeth, squeezed her eyes shut tightly... as if there was nothing left for her to say or hear. Drishant, with a stern expression on his face, stared at the scared, withdrawn girl sitting in front of him for a few moments. She, who roared like a lioness in front of everyone else, became a timid mouse in his presence when alone. Thinking this, Drishant's expression softened slightly.
"Why aren't you replying to my messages and calls?"
Hearing the question, Pallavi opened her eyes in surprise. First, she looked at him with wide, astonished eyes, wondering how he had changed the topic?... Then, she suddenly remembered something and replied with a pouting, defiant tone,
"Because I don't feel like talking to you."
"And why is that?" Drishant's eyes deepened, but Pallavi shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly.
"What do I know, I just don't feel like it."
"You don't feel like talking... or are you ignoring me to avoid answering the question I asked that day?"
A direct, straightforward question asked seriously, upon hearing which Pallavi avoided his gaze.
"Wh... what question?... I don't remember anything... I'm getting late, I should go." Pallavi finished speaking in a hurry and had just reached out to open the door when Drishant firmly grabbed her wrist. Pallavi's breath stopped for a moment, and she immediately tried to pull her hand away.
"Leave my hand."
"Why should I leave it? I have the right," Drishant replied seriously, tightening his grip. Pallavi, who was tired of trying every possible way to free her wrist, got irritated by his answer.
"You don't have the right. Don't forget, we aren't married yet, and if you don't let me go from here and bother me, we will never get married."
"Oh, and who will stop our marriage?" Drishant asked, raising an eyebrow, to which Pallavi replied by glaring at him.
"Me... I will stop it. My parents agreed for me. If I refuse, they will end this relationship right here."
It was an almost threatening tone, which Drishant found quite appealing. He had fallen for her boldness, but this lady became completely timid in front of him, so he had to tease and provoke her a bit to see this side of her. Hearing Pallavi's threat, Drishant raised an eyebrow again and asked,
"Oh, so you will refuse?"
"Yes, absolutely," Pallavi replied, meeting his gaze, and stood firm on her statement. She thought the matter would end there, but Drishant was far more cunning than that and thought much ahead. Dismissing her threat casually, he said nonchalantly,
"Alright, then fulfill your desire... fulfill it with joy. First, answer my question: a friend's brother is a brother, but when and how did the thought of making my brother your husband come to your mind?"
"Just like the thought came to your mind to make your younger sister's best friend your wife." Pallavi retorted sharply. Ever since the engagement, Drishant often teased her by asking this question, and finally, today Pallavi retaliated.
"This is not the answer to my question. Tell me truthfully, why did you never call me brother, and since when have you had these kinds of feelings for me?"
"I won't tell you, what will you do?... And why would I call you brother... do I look like your brother?... And your behavior was like a brother's? Whenever you got a chance, you would just trouble me, scold me, and I would call you brother... Huh... you're dreaming too big."
Pallavi finished speaking with a pout and then turned her face away with a frown.
"If I bothered you so much, then how did I get into your heart?"
Once again, Drishant teased her, and Madam replied irritably,
"It was a big mistake that I fell for you seeing your good qualities... I regret it greatly now."
"Then you will have to regret it your whole life," Drishant said, smiling while caressing her palm, while Pallavi sat with a sulky face.
"Why are you so scared of me? Am I going to eat you?" Drishant asked after a few moments of silence, to which Pallavi irritably retorted,
"Why do you always roam around like Hitler?... Whenever I see you, you're just scolding me. What about me, anyone would be scared of you."
Hearing Pallavi's accusation, Drishant became serious.
"Don't you look at your own actions. Is it that I have a hobby of scolding you unnecessarily?... If you act a certain way, you'll get scolded too."
"Oh... and what kind of actions do I do that deserve scolding?"
Showing interest, Pallavi asked with a pout. Drishant, meeting her gaze, asked her the same question in the same tone.
"Didn't you make fun of me right in front of me, along with my younger sister?"
"That was just a joke," Pallavi immediately clarified, brushing it off, but Drishant was serious.
"But I didn't like it."
"So what should I do, if you don't like it? I haven't taken a contract to say things that you like," Pallavi replied irritably. Drishant watched her silently for a few moments, then said seriously,
"Don't support her. She's already spoiled. When she gets an opportunity, she does more weird things, and it becomes difficult to handle her."
"She's not spoiled, just a little whimsical and mischievous," Pallavi immediately defended Antara like a good sister-in-law.
"She shies away from studies," Drishant complained. In return, Pallavi narrowed her eyes and glared at him.
"Not everyone in the world is a bookworm like you. Her interest is in makeup and fashion."
"Then she should do something in that... but she should do something. She doesn't want to do anything, just roams around with her friends and wastes time and money."
"She will do something when the time comes. This is the age to enjoy herself. If we burden her shoulders with responsibilities from now on, she will lose her childhood and become a senior citizen before her time, just like you."
Once again, Pallavi, knowingly or unknowingly, made a jab at him, and Drishant's eyebrows furrowed together.
"Aren't you talking a bit too much?"
"My legs also want to walk, but you won't let go, you're holding my hand." The reply was immediate, and sharp eyes glared at the hand that held her wrist.
Drishant now released her wrist. Pallavi immediately pulled her hand back and began to rub her wrist.
"Listen,"
At Drishant's voice, she turned her head and looked at him. "Yes, please tell me."
Drishant's face now bore a serious expression. "I need to talk to you about something important."
"Please tell me, I'm listening."
"I told you, right? That prospective groom's family is coming to see Ahana today."
"Yes."
"She doesn't say anything in front of us. She leaves all the decisions to us, keeping her heart's desires within. So, you talk to her once. Find out what's on her mind and what she wants."
"I'll try, but I was thinking that I'd see the boy first, talk to him... and then I'd ask her. Then it would be easier for her to respond."
"Do as you think best. Just let me know her preference. I don't want her to get tied in an unwanted bond for our sake."
"Yes... I'll talk to her and let you know. Can I go now? Do you have anything else to say?"
"Go," Drishant permitted her to leave, and Pallavi immediately opened the door and started to get out, but then stopped, thinking of something. She turned back, looked at Drishant, who was looking at her, and with a gentle smile gracing her lips, she said,
"He's a monkey, but I like him a lot."
Saying this, she went out with a cheerful laugh, but left behind a captivating smile on Drishant's lips.
Delhi (Sehgal Niwas)
Breakfast was over, and in a short while, everyone was about to leave to see a prospective bride. Along with Abhijit ji, his wife Rupali ji, his younger brother, his father, a friend, and his own family were going. This included his two sons, daughter Falak, son-in-law Sumit, and brother-in-law ji. Everyone had arrived, and they were just getting ready to leave.
Everyone else was ready, but Akshay was still not ready. He had to go to the hospital in the morning due to an emergency and had just returned. After bathing and freshening up, he came out of the bathroom to find Anvay and his younger sister Falak sitting on his bed, happily eating snacks.
Seeing the two of them making themselves comfortable, Akshay, annoyed, threw the wet towel in his hand at them and walked towards the dressing table. Anvay immediately caught the towel and said irritably,
"What brother, is this a place to throw a wet towel?"
Akshay's steps halted. He turned back towards them and asked in the same tone,
"This is also not a place for you to gather, so what are you both doing in my room?"
"We just thought we'd talk to you a bit, but brother, why are you getting so annoyed seeing us?" Falak replied this time and also asked a question. To which Akshay retorted irritably,
"You've ruined my bed, I feel like killing you." Seeing Akshay's stern demeanor, Falak immediately changed the subject,
"Brother, we came here to find out where the sun rose today?"
Akshay looked at her with raised eyebrows and confused eyes. Understanding the question in his mind, Falak continued,
"I mean, before this, we went to see girls in Delhi many times, and also in NCR. But you never came with us then, and today you're ready to go to Kanpur with us.
Did you like the girl too much, that's why you're going to see her yourself? This way you can meet her and talk to her too?"
She winked, with a mischievous smile on her lips. The meaning was clear: his presence there had only one purpose, and that was to tease Akshay. Understanding her intentions, Akshay narrowed his eyes, glared at her, and said irritably,
"Don't talk nonsense, Falak. I'm going because Mom said so."
"Mom says it every time, brother, and we've already gone to see five girls for you. You never came with us before. Where did this ghost of becoming Mom's obedient son possess you this time? Aren't you fulfilling your own desires under the guise of Mom?"
These were the Anvay Maharaj, who not only dipped his hands in the flowing Ganges but came out after a full dip. With a devilish smile on his lips, he raised his eyebrows. Before Akshay could reply to his words, Falak came closer and asked,
"By the way, brother, if you like the girl, should we consider her our sister-in-law?"
Falak's question momentarily confused Akshay. The image of the girl surfaced in his mind, evoking unsaid feelings in his heart. He was lost in those feelings, and seeing him lost in thoughts, Falak and Anvay's eyes twinkled with mischief, as if the secret they had come to uncover had been revealed to them.
With mischief in their eyes and devilish smiles on their lips, they looked at each other meaningfully, as if communicating something with their eyes. Then Anvay dramatically pretended to think and asked,
"Falak, what's our sister-in-law's name? I can't recall, it's such a lovely name..."
"I can't recall either. Mom was telling me outside, and I really liked the name, but it's just not coming to my mind right now." Falak joined his act and began trying to remember by putting pressure on her mind. Just then, Akshay's steady voice echoed,
"Aahana."
Both their gazes turned towards Akshay, whose eyes showed different emotions and a faint smile adorned his lips.
Anvay's mischievous streak flared, and taking his act to its conclusion, he feigned surprise,
"Oh yes, Aahana is her name. I just didn't remember."
After that, he looked at Akshay with a deep gaze,
"But you remembered it very well. What's the matter, brother, have you fallen in love with your Aahana in your heart?"
"Anvay, you'll get beaten by me today." Akshay hid his emotions behind anger and threatened him by showing his fist. But before he could attack Anvay, Falak stepped between them, placed her hands on her waist, and looked at him sternly,
"But you can't hit me. Come on, tell me, do you really like this girl, I mean Aahana?"
The stern expression on Akshay's face softened. He replied in a confused tone,
"How can I tell if I like her or not by just looking at a picture? To like or dislike someone, you have to meet, get to know and understand each other, and talk."
"So, you already find this girl likable, that's why you're thinking about meeting and talking to her. Am I right, brother?" Anvay jumped back into the fray. But Akshay was still confused.
"I don't know, let's see. Maybe I'll like her when we meet, or maybe I'll like her, but she might not like me."
"That's impossible, brother." Falak immediately objected to his statement. Looking at her expression, it seemed she didn't like what Akshay said, while Akshay calmly supported his point,
"It's entirely possible. Who knows, maybe I'm not who she's looking for as a life partner, and it's also possible that Mom and Dad might not like the girl. So, it's too early to say anything."
"Okay brother, tell me one thing. After knowing everything about Aahana ji and seeing her picture, Mom and Dad have decided to go see her, meaning they like her. But still, if it happens that after seeing and meeting the girl, Mom and Dad reject her, but you like her, what will you do then?"
Anvay also reached him and presented the question churning in his mind, waiting for an answer. Not only Anvay was waiting for the answer to this question, but Falak was also eagerly awaiting his response.
"Then the marriage won't happen." Anvay and Falak looked at each other upon hearing Akshay's reply.
"Meaning, you'll refuse the marriage?" Anvay was shocked by his answer and looked at him with wide, astonished eyes. In response to his question, Akshay raised his eyebrows and asked him,
"So, I'll go against my Mom and Dad for an unknown girl?"
"If I were in your place, there would be 100% rebellion at home, and I would marry the one I like, even if it meant going against everyone. But the marriage would be with her." Anvay replied nonchalantly, as if it were a trivial matter. But it wasn't a joke because his eyes showed passion, meaning he wouldn't hesitate to do so when the time came.
Hearing his answer, Akshay said very seriously,
"And what would happen after marriage? If I married against my Mom and Dad's wishes, a new Mahabharata would erupt every day, relationships would fall apart, the household atmosphere would deteriorate, and rifts would appear between family members. Mom and Dad's feelings would be hurt, and the life of the girl I marry would also be filled with difficulties."
Akshay presented his perspective, and in clear terms. He was right in his own way, so without prolonging the debate, he said seriously after a moment of thought,
"You are truly an obedient son to Mom and Dad. Do what they say. But tell me, what will you do if there are chances of a Mahabharata at home even when the daughter-in-law is of their choice? Will you support them as an obedient son, or will you fulfill your duty as a husband and support the one who marries you, leaves her home and family for you, and considers your family as her own?"
Anvay posed a question before him and waited for an answer. Not only Anvay was waiting for the answer to this question, but Falak was also eagerly awaiting his response.
"That depends, I will support the one who is right." Anvay and Falak looked at each other upon hearing Akshay's answer.
"Brother, can I give you some advice?"
Seeing an overly serious expression on Anvay's face, Akshay's face showed a question mark,
"What kind of advice?"
"You love Mom very much, and you obey her every word, but while fulfilling the duty of a good son, don't be unjust to that girl. History is a witness that there is always a conflict between a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law, and the reasons are often valid.
The mother who until now had sole possession of her son has to share him after marriage, which makes her insecure that her daughter-in-law might snatch her son away from her, and in this fear, she mistreats the daughter-in-law. In such a situation, the son has to struggle a lot to balance between the two, and you are going to face such a problem 100% in the future. So, prepare yourself for this situation from now on."
Akshay, who was listening intently, shook his head with regret and slapped him on the head, saying,
"You watch too many of these mother-in-law and daughter-in-law daily soaps."
Anvay rubbed his head and looked at him with a displeased face. Meanwhile, Falak, who had been thinking for a while, took the opportunity to voice her opinion,
"Brother, can I say something?"
Akshay glanced at her and said irritably,
"If there's anything left to say, you say it too."
"Brother, wives of mama's boys have a lot of trouble adjusting in their in-laws' house. I'm not saying that after marriage, you should completely forget the parents who gave birth to you, raised you, and dedicated their whole lives to you, and turn away from your duties and responsibilities towards them.
But you shouldn't blindly support everything they say either, nor should you completely ignore your wife. You should never forget that if she has some duties towards her family and parents, she also has some responsibilities towards the girl whom she has brought home after marriage.
That boy has his whole family with him, but that girl leaves her home, her family, everything, and holds his hand, coming into your home with strangers, amidst strangers. So, giving her respect in this new home is the boy's primary responsibility.
It is also his duty to take care of the girl who has left everything for him and joined his world, to make her feel that she is also a member of this family, that she is important to them. This is the boy's crucial responsibility.
I had heard that a girl's respect in her in-laws' house comes from her husband, and after marriage, I have seen that indeed, if the husband supports you, respects you, maintains your dignity, and takes care of you, only then do the in-laws respect you.
If the husband himself declares the girl wrong, and everyone from family members to outsiders points fingers at her, whether she is actually wrong or not, she has to bow down, suppress herself, and listen to taunts."
"And you think that the girl who becomes my wife and comes to this house, I won't respect her, I won't support her?"
Akshay asked after listening to her entire speech seriously. Falak immediately shook her head in denial,
"It's not like that, brother, but since you obey Mom's every word, I sometimes fear that in fulfilling the duty of a good son, you might do injustice to your wife. You don't even ask for anything for yourself from Mom, what if you can't even stand up for her?"
"I've never needed to, otherwise, if Mom does something wrong, I will definitely stop her."
"You didn't stop them from getting me married?"
These words slipped out of Falak's mouth unintentionally, which shook Akshay.
"Falak." Akshay tried to say something, but Falak didn't give him a chance to speak and interrupted him, saying,
"Brother, I am your sister, I have no complaints with you because my in-laws are good, Sumit is very good. But now that you are getting married, please don't let anything wrong happen to the girl who will be your wife and come into this house."
Akshay looked at his sister silently for a few moments, who did not complain about him, despite him failing in his duty as an elder brother.
"Since when have you started saying such sensible things?" Akshay asked, touching her cheek lovingly. Falak smiled faintly in response,
"Since my marriage to that house where I have to fight a new battle every day. Don't give my sister-in-law such a life, brother."
It was a plea from her to her brother, which Akshay accepted by bowing his head and then hugged her tightly.
"Dude, Pallavi," Ahana called out to her in a somewhat flustered tone. They were both sitting in an auto, heading home at that moment. Pallavi immediately turned to look at her when Ahana called.
"Yes, my dear, tell me what happened?"
"Dude, I'm feeling really weird. I wasn't this nervous even on the day we went for the interview. I'm feeling a strange fear."
Ahana confessed her feelings and clutched her dupatta in her fists, looking at her nervously. Pallavi held her palm and said lovingly and warmly,
"I understand the nervousness. The boy's family is coming to see you today. But there's nothing to be so nervous or scared about. They're just coming to see you, they won't sentence you to hard labor. They'll ask a few questions and then leave."
Ahana looked at her, troubled for a moment, then looking at her with fearful eyes, she said softly, "I get scared just thinking about marriage, dude. What if something happens to us too..."
"Shut up! Don't utter any inauspicious words today. Nothing bad will happen to you, understand? So, get this fear out of your mind."
Cutting Ahana off, Pallavi stated firmly. She was annoyed by Ahana's words, and her anger was evident in her tone, but Ahana's worry had not yet subsided.
"But how do we know nothing bad will happen? You know how much dowry is prevalent here. The more successful the boy, the higher his price. They demand more... and we don't want to start our new life on the foundation of greed and dowry. Brother has strictly instructed us not to discuss such things with the boy this time...
But my heart doesn't agree, dude. How can we connect with someone for whom the dowry amount matters more than us? ... Who is interested in the car and money they'll get from our connection, not us?
We will never be able to respect such a person from the heart, and without respect, every relationship is hollow. We don't want to connect with someone who marries us for dowry."
"Your point is valid, Ahana, but you have to give a little. Still, if you're not comfortable, you can talk to the boy about it. We'll see what happens next, just keep your mind calm... Don't stress so much, dude. You have Father-in-law, and Dryishant is also there, they'll handle everything and find a good match for you. They'll entrust you to capable hands."
"I know, dude. Still, I'm very nervous."
"This is the third time, you should be used to it by now, but I've never seen you so scared before."
Pallavi also started to look a bit worried. Hearing her, Ahana held her palm tightly and said nervously,
"This time it feels very strange. It feels like my hands and feet are going numb with fear. I wish I could run away so I don't have to meet the boy."
"Why? Don't you like the boy? I've seen his photo too, I found him nice, he looks calm and sensible from his face... Is it possible that you're so nervous because you're meeting a boy for the first time?"
"I don't know anything. I'm just very nervous. Do one thing, come home with me, I'll get some courage, some moral support too."
Ahana asked her to come along with great hope, but lines of worry appeared on Pallavi's forehead.
"I want to come too, dude, but Mom has strictly forbidden me from stepping into that house before the wedding. People will talk, which will raise questions about the honor of both families. But Chhaya Bhabhi is coming, don't worry."
"I'll talk to Auntie, and besides, you'll be going there not as my future sister-in-law, but as my childhood friend, and this is my final decision."
Ahana announced her decision in a stern tone and started talking to Pallavi's mother. With her flattery and loving requests, Auntie had to concede, and Pallavi also relented to her insistence.
When they both reached home, Antara had already arrived and was helping Jayanti Ji rearrange the drawing-room setup. The drawing-room was being decorated to welcome the guests. The maid was busy cleaning, and Jayanti Ji was ensuring she cleaned every single thing. The entire hall was shining, not a speck of dust was visible anywhere.
A new shiny carpet had been laid in the drawing-room, the sofa covers had been changed, and Jayanti Ji had herself spread a beautiful table cloth on the table. Along with sofas, divans had also been placed in the drawing-room for the guests to sit. The curtains of the house had also been changed.
The air was fragrant with the subtle aroma coming from the kitchen. It was clear that preparations were in full swing there too to welcome the guests. Jayanti Ji would sometimes run here and sometimes there to oversee the work.
Dryishant had also come on his day off and had gone to the market with Jitendra Ji to bring some supplies.
The house looked completely different today. Today's preparations were special, and for a moment, Ahana felt as if she had entered someone else's house. As she was still looking around her house in amazement, Nishant ran towards her upon seeing her and said with great curiosity,
"Didi, look, Mom has transformed our house today, it looks like Diwali preparations are underway, and judging by how eagerly Mom is overseeing everything, it seems like not just the boy's family, but the President himself is about to grace our home."
Nishant's voice reached Antara's ears as she was moving a divan to the other side, and she turned her gaze in the direction of the voice in surprise. As soon as her eyes fell on Ahana standing near the gate, her face showed an expression as if someone was torturing her terribly, and now she saw her rescuer who could save her from all this.
Antara, without wasting a moment, escaped from her predicament and reached Ahana.
"Didi, it's good you're here. Look, Mom has been making me move the divan and then the sofa for the past hour. I'm strong, but that doesn't mean she should treat me like a weightlifting dummy."
Antara complained about Jayanti Ji to Ahana, narrating her sad tale, hoping she would save her from further torture. Ahana listened to her, and meanwhile, Jayanti Ji came towards her.
"Anu beta, it's good you're here. We've been waiting for you."
"I'm here, Mom, but what are you doing? Why are you making Antara lift the divan and sofa?"
"We're not doing anything, just arranging the seating."
Hearing Jayanti Ji's response, Ahana first held her shoulders and made her sit down.
"First of all, you sit down."
"Nishant, get some water for Mom." Nishant immediately rushed to the kitchen at her bidding and returned with water.
"Here, drink some water and take a breath. Everything is perfectly fine, and it's just the boy's family coming to see you. Why are you so restless?"
Ahana gave her water, but after taking a sip, she kept the glass aside and said worriedly,
"The boy's family is coming, beta. Your uncle said it's a very good match, if your proposal gets fixed here, your future will be made. Your happiness and future are tied to this relationship, so we don't want to leave any stone unturned."
"Mom, whatever is destined for our future will happen. If this relationship is meant to be in our destiny, if the Almighty has decided for our connection with this family, then everything will happen even without your worrying so much... And if it's not meant to happen, no matter what you do, the relationship won't happen, so don't stress so much.
Don't tire yourself out so much, you'll fall ill. Everything is fine, just trust the Almighty now, whatever happens will be for the best. Leave all your worries and concerns and rest for a while."
"There's no time to rest, daughter, the boy's family must be arriving any moment, there's still a lot of work to be done." Jayanti Ji began to get up again, worried, but Ahana made her sit back down and said,
"You won't do anything. Tell me what the work is... We'll do it."
"You go wash your hands and face and get ready, rest a bit too, you look so tired. We'll manage the work here."
"Yes Anu, you go and rest for a while, I'll look after everything here, and don't worry, I won't let Mom get troubled at all."
At Pallavi's insistence, Ahana went to her room, albeit reluctantly, but instead of resting, she started pacing around anxiously. Downstairs, Pallavi didn't let Jayanti Ji get up and, along with Antara, started finishing the remaining tasks herself.
After some time, Dryishant returned and was initially surprised to see Pallavi there, then smiled seeing her managing household chores like a family member and taking care of Jayanti Ji.
After a while, Ahana's uncles, grandfather, and aunt, as well as Pallavi's parents, also arrived. Almost all preparations were done. Now, they were just waiting for the boy's family.
"Everything is fine here, Papa, but the boy is also coming along, so will Anju meet him alone? Should we arrange it in Anju's room or on the terrace?"
Dryishant asked Jitendra Ji, looking around the hall, but before he could answer, Antara quickly interjected,
"Not in the room, brother, otherwise Mom will make me clean the entire room. Please arrange it on the terrace."
"It would be best to meet on the terrace. We can talk in private in an open environment." Chhaya Bhabhi also agreed with Antara's suggestion, and after the opinion of the others, it was decided to have the boy and girl meet on the terrace.
Coming soon .........
"Anu, are you still sitting like that?"
Pallavi, when she came to her room after finishing all the work downstairs, was surprised to see Ahana sitting on a chair. She was still wearing the same clothes.
Ahana was also startled by Pallavi's voice. At that moment, Chhaya also came to her and looked at Ahana from top to bottom and said,
"Anu, haven't you washed your face and changed your clothes yet? Why are you still sitting like that! Chachi was saying that you are resting, then why are you sitting here thinking?"
Ahana had already composed herself. She replied as she got up, "Nothing, Bhabi. I was just resting. I will freshen up now."
"Now, just freshening up won't do, Jiji. The boy's family is coming in half an hour, so now you have to get ready quickly. And Mommy has sent this saree for you."
Entering the room with a saree in her hand, Antara said this. Ahana nodded and went to the bathroom.
After some time, while Bhabi was helping Ahana wear the saree, she started a conversation,
"We heard that the boy is very serious."
"Then our Anu is also very serious. Both will give each other company."
Pallavi said, fixing a deep gaze on Ahana's face. Her facial expressions had changed slightly. At that moment, Antara said with a pout,
"But if both are serious, who will do the talking and fun? It will be so boring! It will seem like two people are sitting for a board exam."
"Then you add some spice to their conversation."
Bhabi smiled mischievously and said. Hearing this, Antara's face fell, and she said with a tone of displeasure and complaint,
"Where will I get such an opportunity, Bhabi? Mommy strictly instructed me that as long as they are at home, I shouldn't come in front of them."
"But why?"
Pallavi was surprised and looked at her curiously.
"Our mom says that's how it is in our house. Whoever comes to see the girl, none of the other unmarried girls are allowed to come in front of them, so that they might not like another girl. Tell me, why was I restricted like this?"
Antara finished speaking and Pallavi immediately rebuked her,
"Why not? You are also so pretty...... but this is wrong."
"That's what I said, but mom scolded me and shut me up."
Antara pouted again and complained about Janti. Bhabi touched her cheek and said lovingly,
"Oh! Our poor Nand Rani is being so oppressed."
"What's not oppression, Bhabi? Tell me, isn't it wrong that the boy is coming to see my Jiji, but I am not allowed to see him?"
Antara looked sad, as if a mountain of sorrows had fallen on her.
Seeing her sad and depressed, Bhabi smiled mysteriously and said,
"Don't be so sad, we will manage something. Don't worry."
The conversation continued between them, but Ahana was completely silent, listening to their conversation while lost in her thoughts.
Some time later, Ahana looked at her reflection in the mirror with a deep gaze. Makeup was being done, and it was all for someone else. Her look was being enhanced, but for someone else's liking.
This was not the first time she was getting ready for someone else, but somehow this time it felt different, and she was more nervous than before. The preparations this time were also different and special, and more attention was being paid to her makeup. It seemed like this time the matter was final.
Be that as it may, everyone's effort was to make her relationship with the coming family final.
She had also felt that a lot of hopes were pinned on this relationship, and everyone believed that the boy coming to see her would be the best choice as her life partner. Now, everyone was trying their best to finalize the matter.
Ahana was caught up in her own dilemma. Some things were sitting deep within her, causing her fear. There was an unusual nervousness, and her heart was restless. She was perhaps too nervous because she was going to meet the boy for the first time.
Meanwhile, on the other side,
The journey was seven and a half hours long, and fatigue was inevitable. They had stopped at one or two places in between, and now only ten to fifteen minutes were left. The car was moving at its speed when it suddenly stopped.
Akshay and Anvay exchanged questioning glances.
"Mom, what's wrong with the car? Why did it stop?"
Rupaliji, sitting at the back, asked.
"I don't know, Mom. I have to check. You all stay inside; I'll see what's wrong."
Akshay replied calmly and stepped out.
As soon as he stepped out, his eyes fell on the front tire, which was punctured.
Akshay was looking at the tire when Anvay also stepped out.
"What's wrong, brother?"
"Tyre punctured. Get the stepney and jack from the boot; we have to change the tire."
"Okay, boss. I'm coming."
Anvay went back while spinning the keys between his fingers. After some time, Anvay and Akshay changed the tire together.
Meanwhile, Antara was standing behind the shop, watching Akshay with keen eyes. She muttered to herself,
"Temperament is calm, and he's also sensible and changes the tire himself...... good."
Akshay had unknowingly passed one of Antara's tests.
As Akshay was about to get into the car after checking the other tires, a sweet, soft voice hit his ears,
"Hey, handsome!"
Akshay looked back startled and saw a girl standing right behind him.
Akshay was stunned to see an unknown girl standing so close to him and took a step back.
"Did...did you talk to me?"
The girl asked with a playful flick of her locks.
The girl approached and asked again,
"Who else is a handsome boy here?"
Akshay looked at her with wide eyes. Before he could understand what to say, Anvay came to Akshay's side.
"Isn't there? Just move your eyes around."
The girl turned pale and looked in the direction where Antara was hiding.
Anvay noticed the girl's expression and followed her gaze. He saw Antara hiding behind the wall.
Anvay's eyes narrowed, and his forehead creased. He understood that the girl was connected to the girl hiding behind the wall.
The girl called out to Anvay,
"Um, excuse me."
Anvay snapped his fingers and said,
"Lost, madam?"
The girl looked at Anvay, and he continued,
"Hello, miss, talk to me. You see, my big brother is a bit naive and stays away from girls. You tell me what's your problem; I'll try to solve it."
The girl composed herself and replied,
"My phone died, so I wanted to make a call."
Anvay handed her his phone nonchalantly.
The girl made a call, said something, thanked Anvay, and left.
Anvay glanced in that direction and then turned to Akshay,
"Brother, I'll drive; you sit down."
Akshay got into the passenger seat.
As Anvay started the car, he glanced in that direction again. No one was visible, but he felt someone's presence.
Anvay drove ahead.
On the other side, as soon as the car moved forward, Antara came out from behind the wall. Recalling Anvay, she frowned and muttered,
"Where did this unwanted person come from? He ruined my whole plan. But still, I saw what I wanted to see. The boy's intentions are not bad; I saw how he got scared, like he had seen a ghost. He was also hesitant to talk...... how shy he looked! He seems sensible...... not like those three fools who turn into a ball of fire at the slightest thing, drooling over a beautiful girl."
Antara remembered the three people she had tested earlier, made a face, and then started her scooter and sped off so that she could reach home before them.
Anvay, sitting next to Akshay, leaned in as the bus was about to reach its destination and whispered, "Brother, are you getting nervous?" Akshay turned his head at the question and looked at Anvay with questioning eyes. In response, Anvay adorned his lips with a mischievous smile and winked mischievously.
"Brother, if you say so, I can give you some tips. You are going to see a girl for the first time, but I have a lot of experience when it comes to girls."
Akshay now understood Anvay's words and the mischief hidden behind them, and his facial expression changed accordingly. He narrowed his eyes and glared at Anvay.
"Keep your experience to yourself. Use it when we go to see a girl for you."
"I am not going to have an arranged marriage. I will have a love marriage. Going to see a girl like this and bringing an unknown girl into my life, respecting my parents' choice... it's completely beyond me." Anvay replied carelessly and focused his attention forward. After hearing his answer, Akshay stared at him for a moment, then shook his head in regret and looked outside.
Antara had a narrow escape. The moment she stepped away from where Dhanno was standing and headed towards the gate, their car stopped outside the gate. Antara, holding her breath, ran away from there in such haste as if a storm had passed, and stopped only after reaching her room.
Ahana and Pallavi were the only ones in the room. Bhabhi had already gone downstairs. The speed with which Antara entered the room and closed the door made both Ahana and Pallavi turn around in shock, while Antara went straight to the bed. She quickly filled a glass with water and emptied it in one go, then sat there and started taking deep breaths.
"Antara, where were you? And why are you panting like this?"
Hearing Ahana's question, Antara looked up at her and smiled mysteriously.
"I went to entertain your future in-laws. They have reached home safely. I hope this time the engagement is finalized because I really liked the boy."
Ahana was well aware of her sister's antics and her mischievous mind. Antara's answer and her demeanor had raised doubts in her mind. She looked at her with suspicious eyes.
"You liked him? What does that mean? And what kind of hospitality did you provide?"
"It's nothing, didi. It's not something you need to know. Just understand that I passed them in my jiju's test. But you be careful, ask all the questions I told you to, and make a decision only after thinking and considering carefully, because if this relationship materializes, you will have to spend your whole life with them."
"Now the decision is not in our hands. From our side, we have already said yes. Now they will see us and decide whether to form a relationship with us or not?"
Ahana replied without any expression. Just then, sounds started coming from downstairs. The meaning was clear that the VIP guests, for whom everyone in the family had been busy with preparations since morning and who had been decorated and adorned so much, had arrived in their courtyard. With the feeling of their arrival, Ahana's heart started beating faster and her mind became restless.
Everyone had gathered downstairs, and the guests were welcomed with great warmth. This relationship had been established through Mama Ji, who had introduced both families.
Akshay and his family had already met some people present here. When they arrived to see him, some new faces were also visible. Anyway, everyone was greeted with respect, and after meeting each other, everyone came inside.
"Did you face any difficulties in reaching here?" Bada Papa asked as a formality, to which Abhijit Ji replied with a calm smile,
"No, no significant difficulties. We reached comfortably."
"It must have been a long journey from Delhi to Kanpur. Please wash your hands and face, then we will arrange for tea and snacks."
They respectfully accepted Jitendra Ji's request. "Yes, yes, absolutely."
Then he gestured to everyone else. Ashok Bhaiya took everyone to the washroom built in the corner of the drawing-room. After washing their hands and faces after the long journey, everyone sat down comfortably, and the women of the house began to attend to them.
First water, then cold drinks with snacks were served. Amidst some casual conversation, Akshay's interview had started once again. The questions asked when they had come to see him now had some new ones added.
He was a bit nervous and kept wiping the sweat on his forehead, looking around as if restless in search of someone special, then he answered those questions with a calm smile on his lips.
"We've talked a lot, and we'll continue to talk, but it would be good if the work for which we've come so far gets done, if we see the girl, if we meet her," finally Dada Ji took pity on his beloved grandson and brought up the matter of fetching the girl, shifting everyone's attention from Akshay to Ahana.
"Yes, of course, we'll call our daughter now." Jitendra Ji accepted his wish wholeheartedly, and Bhabhi immediately went towards the stairs.
Akshay, sitting surrounded by everyone, felt his heart beating differently and waited with bated breath for the moment when he would get a glimpse of her, for whom he had traveled such a long distance to see and talk to.
When Bhabhi reached the room, Ahana was pacing restlessly. Frowning, looking worried, she would bite her lips, twist the corner of her saree in her fingers, or coil strands of hair falling on her cheeks around her fingers and tuck them behind her ear.
Pallavi and Antara sat silently on the bed. Sometimes they would look at Ahana pacing restlessly, and sometimes they would exchange worried glances.
"Anu, your call has come. Come downstairs, everyone is waiting for you." Bhabhi said, coming to Anu and gently holding her chin. Ahana's nervousness increased upon hearing her. She clasped Bhabhi Chhaya's hand between her ice-cold palms.
"Bhabhi, I'm scared. I won't go downstairs." Seeing Ahana, it seemed as if a small child was pleading with her mother not to go to school for fear of being beaten with a stick by the teacher.
Bhabhi had also been married, she understood everything and had gone through this situation herself, so she was not unaware of Ahana's feelings. She explained to her with great affection.
"What are you saying? And what is there to be scared of? We will all be there with you. Yes, you must be nervous, but every girl gets nervous on such occasions. We did too, when your bhaiya came to see us. Control yourself, you just have to answer a few of their questions."
"Bhabhi, my hands and feet are getting cold. Everyone has so much hope in this relationship. If I mess up something, all their hard work will be wasted, and their hopes will be dashed."
Indeed, nervousness had overwhelmed her to such an extent that her hands and feet were becoming cold and her face had turned pale with fear. Hearing her, Bhabhi gently stroked her cheek and continued,
"Dear sister-in-law, matches are made in heaven. Here, they are just united through some medium. If your match is with him, then even after a hundred obstacles, the relationship will be formed. And if someone else is destined for you, who is even better, then God will find a way to bring him to you and you to him in some way. So, don't worry.
You are so sensible, the pride of your uncle. Come on, respecting his wish, gather your courage and come with us. We will all be with you, so don't be scared at all. Just control yourself and answer their questions patiently."
Ahana didn't want to go, but she had no choice but to go, so controlling her ever-increasing nervousness, she took steps towards that direction with Bhabhi and Pallavi, the thought of which made her heart tremble.
"Here, our daughter has arrived." Jayanti Ji said with great happiness and went towards Ahana, who was descending the stairs. Her words drew the attention of everyone else, including Akshay, who had been eagerly waiting for her, eager to catch a glimpse of her.
A light pink georgette saree was elegantly draped over her milk-white complexion, printed with subtle, large, dark pink floral patterns.
Her hair was styled in the front and left open at the back. Her golden hair, reaching her waist, swayed in the air, and some strands enhanced the beauty of Ahana's moon-like face. A small, light pink bindi adorned the space between her arched eyebrows. Matching earrings hung from her ears, her eyes were lined with kohl, and her shyly lowered eyelashes guarded them.
Her thick, trembling eyelashes and her lips, colored in light pink, told the story of her nervousness. Her face had light makeup, a gold locket of Mahadev around her neck, a watch adorned her left wrist, while her right wrist was filled with bangles. A thin anklet was tangled around her feet, its soft chime echoing there.
She looked lovely, and her shyly lowered, trembling eyelashes were captivating. While everyone else scanned Ahana from head to toe as she approached from the front, Akshay's gaze once again rested on those thick, downward-sloping eyelashes.
"Anvay, brother, she is even more beautiful than the picture in reality, and looks so innocent from her face."
Phalak whispered in Anvay's ear in surprise, looking intently at Ahana, to which he immediately agreed.
"Yes, didi, she looks very lovely. It would be wonderful if she marries bhaiya and comes to our house as our bhabhi."
Anvay also seemed quite impressed with Ahana.
"But will such a simple-looking girl be able to handle our strict and sharp-tempered mother?" Phalak expressed her concern and glanced sideways at Rupali Ji, who was looking at Ahana with a serious expression and sharp, hawk-like eyes.
Hearing Phalak's question, Anvay first turned his head in surprise, then shrugged his shoulders in confusion and said in a low but serious tone,
"I don't know about that, but if she comes to our house, it's certain that our mother's dictatorial empire won't be threatened by her, and her throne will remain secure."
Phalak nodded at his words. Here, the brother-sister duo were engrossed with each other, while Akshay, avoiding everyone's gaze, silently gazed at Ahana, who, with her head slightly bowed, her eyelashes covering her eyes, tightly held the corner of her saree with both hands, and slowly walked towards everyone.
Chhaya and Pallavi brought Ahana to everyone. Ahana swallowed, moistening her dry throat, and gently lifted the veil of her eyelashes. Akshay's gaze fell on those big, kohl-lined, deep pink eyes, which spoke of her inner feelings.
The next moment, she lowered her eyelashes, joined her hands, and bowed to everyone. She received many blessings and was also asked to sit. The people from the groom's side gradually began to ask her questions – about her education, her family, to which Ahana replied, suppressing her nervousness.
"Ahana, so you are a teacher?" This question was asked by Rupali Ji, who had been silent until then. To which Ahana replied with a nod and a soft, sweet voice,
"Yes."
"What have you thought about after marriage?"
"Yes..." Ahana's hesitant eyes drifted towards her, and she tried to understand the meaning of her question, confused. Seeing her in a dilemma, Rupali Ji rephrased her question slightly,
"We mean, there is a big difference between the circumstances before and after marriage. Currently, you are in your parental home and work outside. After marriage, when you go to your in-laws' house, will you continue your job or have you decided to leave it?"
Coming soon.......
What will Ahana answer to her question?
"We mean that the circumstances before and after marriage are very different. Right now, you are at your parental home, so you go out and work. Will you continue your job after marriage or have you decided to quit?"
Their question made Aahana's worried eyes turn towards Jayanthi Ji. She blinked her eyelids and calmly replied.
"Our parents have worked hard to bring us to this stage and make us self-reliant. They have given us complete freedom to make our own decisions, but we have never taken any decision without consulting them.
Our mother always tells us that family and its happiness are the most important, and to keep the family together, the women in the house often have to make sacrifices; sometimes their dreams, sometimes their desires, sometimes their careers, and sometimes their wishes.
She has also made sacrifices, and it is because of her sacrifices that our family is happy today. She has taught us to respect our elders' wishes and to find happiness in others' happiness.
We won't say that we always wanted to quit our job after marriage, because that's not true. But if needed, we won't hesitate to quit our job for our family. Our job is much less important to us than the family and relationships that we will be a part of after marriage."
Aahana answered the question according to her understanding, and many people present there felt a sense of satisfaction and peace.
Abhijit Ji smiled and started speaking.
"There is no need to quit your job. That was our time when women's roles were limited to household chores, and their only responsibility was to manage the family.
Now the world is changing. Women manage the household and also work outside; they take care of the family, pursue their dreams, and fulfill their desires. Our daughter works even after marriage and manages our household. We have no objection to you working."
His response brought relief to many faces, including Aahana's, Jitendra Ji's, Dreeshant's, and Pallavi's. Meanwhile, Rupali Ji spoke in a stern tone.
"We have made our daughter capable of handling responsibilities both at home and outside, but not everyone can do that. We won't say that working after marriage is completely prohibited, but taking care of one's household should be a woman's top priority. If household responsibilities are neglected due to work, we will insist on quitting the job to take care of the household."
"I completely agree with you. Our Aahana is very sensible and talented. Even when we are not feeling well, she manages the household and takes care of us. You won't have any reason to complain."
Jayanthi Ji replied, praising Aahana.
Rupali Ji asked another question.
"You must know how to do household chores and cook, right?"
"Yes, I do. I also make delicious food. We told you, she takes care of this house."
Aahana replied, her head bowed.
"You didn't answer my question."
"Yes, I know how to cook and do household chores."
As soon as Aahana finished speaking, Anvay spoke up.
"So, what all can you cook? I mean, do you know Indian, Chinese, or Italian cuisine?"
Anvay's question made Aahana look up, surprised.
"I know some dishes from Home Science. I try new recipes in my free time. I'll learn more."
Pallavi praised Aahana, which drew everyone's attention.
"How old is your younger daughter?"
Jayanthi Ji immediately shook her head.
"She's our would-be daughter-in-law, but you can consider her our daughter."
The term 'daughter-in-law' made Rupali Ji's eyebrows furrow.
"I don't like it, sister, but there are customs and traditions in our family. We don't like it when a girl comes to her in-laws' house before marriage."
Rupali Ji criticized her in a sharp tone, making everyone's faces tense.
Jitendra Ji intervened and smiled.
"She's not a daughter-in-law yet; she's our daughter. Aahana has been coming here since childhood. It's okay; she's here as a friend."
Rupali Ji looked at Pallavi with a strange expression.
"We didn't know you followed love marriages. In our family, parents still choose a suitable life partner for their children."
The way she spoke made Pallavi and Dreeshant's faces change.
Jayanthi Ji calmly replied.
"If there is an elder's approval in a love marriage, we have no objection. The partner our children choose must be capable and suitable for our family."
Jayanthi Ji handled the situation well.
Abhijit Ji changed the subject.
"Brother, where is your younger daughter? I don't see her around."
Jitendra Ji looked at Jayanthi Ji.
"She's in her room, studying. I'll call her."
The conversation continued, and Aahana and Pallavi took Dreeshant and Akshay to the rooftop to talk.
Anvay couldn't resist teasing Akshay. Aahana and Pallavi took the opportunity to talk to Dreeshant and Akshay separately.
The weather had suddenly changed. The sun had hidden behind the clouds, and colorful clouds had gathered in the sky. Saffron, yellow, and deep red colors began to blend into the sky. The winds had changed their direction. Where just a short while ago there was an intense feeling of heat, now the weather was becoming cooler.
Pallavi and Aahana's sister-in-law brought Akshay and Aahana to the terrace and made them sit. Arrangements had already been made for them to talk there. A round table was set up, covered with a tablecloth, with two chairs placed opposite each other. Behind the chairs, rows of potted flowers were placed, forming a boundary around the entire terrace. The pleasant weather and the decorations made it seem as if the entire universe wanted to make this special moment memorable for them.
"Now we will leave. You both talk to each other comfortably without any hesitation or shyness," Pallavi said, looking at each of them in turn. As she started to let go of Aahana's hand, Aahana turned, tightly held her hand, and looked at her with nervous eyes, nodding slightly as if trying to stop her from leaving.
Pallavi and her sister-in-law were well aware of Aahana's state of mind. If she was so nervous with everyone else present downstairs, then staying alone with Akshay here was even more difficult for her.
Pallavi looked at her sister-in-law with worried eyes, and she gestured to her with her eyes. Pallavi gently pulled her hand away from Aahana, smiled, and blinked her eyes, as if telling her to stay calm.
Aahana looked at both of them with pleading eyes but couldn't ask them to stay, even if she wanted to. Just as they both turned to leave, Antara arrived with a tray. Aahana saw a ray of hope. But in the very next moment, that hope shattered and dispersed because Antara placed the tray's contents on the table and turned to leave, even gesturing to Aahana as she went.
Poor Aahana's life felt like it was stuck in her throat. She was alone here with Akshay, and she was so nervous that her heart was pounding loudly in her chest, while her mind seemed to have stopped working altogether.
Akshay, who had been standing silently for a long time, was deeply observing Aahana's every movement and expression, understanding her situation because he felt much the same way. But their nervousness and silence wouldn't get them anywhere. Someone had to take the initiative and start the conversation, so Akshay decided to do so.
First, he looked towards the stairs to see if anyone was there. When he confirmed that there was indeed no one else there besides them, he began to speak.
"Aahana."
Aahana, who was standing with her face turned away, was restlessly looking around. When Akshay called her, she was startled.
"Y...yes..."
"Is your intention to stand there the entire time?" Akshay asked casually. But hearing his question, Aahana felt a bit embarrassed upon realizing her mistake. She stammered and nodded her head.
"N...no... I'm sorry, we didn't notice... you... you sit."
Aahana's gaze was still downcast, and the expressions on her face were screaming her state of mind. Seeing her embarrassed and apologizing, Akshay realized his mistake and immediately corrected it.
"I wasn't making a sarcastic remark to embarrass you. You don't need to apologize."
Aahana just nodded and gestured towards the chair, saying, "Please, sit."
"You sit too."
Now Akshay and Aahana were sitting opposite each other. Aahana sat withdrawn, her eyes downcast, nervously clasping her fingers together.
Akshay, on the other hand, was meticulously observing the delicate girl sitting before him, who seemed as delicate and tender as a flower doll to him, one that would shatter at the slightest touch. She seemed to be avoiding even making eye contact with him.
A few moments of silence passed between them, then Aahana, in a rather unsuccessful attempt to control her nervousness, asked him with her eyes still downcast, "W...will you have tea?" The way Aahana asked and her trembling eyelashes stopped before lifting, Akshay's lips involuntarily curved slightly.
"I don't drink tea. Besides, there's no tea here, perhaps you didn't notice when you looked."
Hearing his last statement, Aahana looked at the table in surprise. Cold drinks and snacks were placed there.
Aahana felt like digging a hole in the ground and burying herself in it out of embarrassment for her foolishness, or hiding her face somewhere far from Akshay's gaze, but she couldn't fulfill either intention. Seeing the changing expressions on her face, Akshay continued, "Aahana, relax, I won't do anything to you by taking advantage of this solitude. You don't need to be so afraid of me."
Akshay made a small attempt to calm her. Aahana bit her lower lip with her teeth, squeezed her eyes shut, and said with a helpless nod, "Sorry, we didn't notice."
"It's okay, I understand how you must be feeling right now, and all I can say is try to be normal, because otherwise, we won't be able to talk." Akshay now appeared serious, in keeping with his nature.
Aahana nodded in agreement, then looking at the cold drink glass on the table, she hesitantly said, "Would you like a cold drink or something else?"
"No. Actually, I think you need this more than I do right now." Akshay smiled faintly and offered the cold drink glass to her.
Aahana wanted to refuse out of shyness, but the truth was, her throat was terribly dry. Hesitantly, she carefully took the glass and, after drinking a sip and saying "Thank you," placed the glass back on the table.
"Aahana, do I look so bad that you're avoiding looking at me?"
Hearing Akshay's question, Aahana looked up at him in surprise. Her eyes widened in astonishment, and in the next moment, with her eyes downcast, she hurriedly said, "N...no... that's just..."
Aahana's tongue stumbled badly, and she couldn't find the words to explain herself, even if she wanted to. But Akshay understood a lot without her saying anything.
"It's okay. If you're not comfortable, it's fine."
Aahana sat silently before him with her eyes downcast. After a few moments of silence, Akshay initiated the conversation once again.
"Aahana, by profession, are you a Biology teacher?"
"Yes," Aahana quickly nodded. With that, Akshay asked the next question, "Was this your dream?"
At his question, Aahana was silent for a moment, her expressions changed slightly, which Akshay noticed. Then Aahana's sweet voice filled his ears. "No. We wanted to become doctors, but we didn't get permission from Mom."
Akshay was surprised to hear Aahana's answer.
"Why? What was wrong with becoming a doctor? I am also a doctor."
Aahana's gaze was now raised towards Akshay, and expressions of displeasure appeared on her face.
"Well, you are a man, and we are a woman. After marriage, you won't have to go to someone else's house, become the daughter-in-law of that house, and take on all its responsibilities. But when we get married, we will have to go to another house. We will have to become the daughter-in-law there and manage all the responsibilities. You yourself are a doctor, so you must know that a doctor can be called anytime in an emergency, and they don't have time to get involved in household chores during their shifts. You are a man, so there are no restrictions on you, but we are women. As a daughter-in-law, we can't fulfill the responsibilities of a better doctor, and if we become responsible doctors, then our duties as daughters-in-law would be lacking. That's why Mom wanted us to become teachers. We would spend half the day at school and half the day at home, so it would be easy to manage both places, and now we realize that Mom was right. Where people bring home an educated girl, they don't easily allow the daughter-in-law to work from 9 to 7, but they never accept a doctor daughter-in-law whose work has no fixed time."
Aahana's mind recalled Rupali ji's words. She was calm and sensible and hadn't said anything directly, but she didn't hesitate to express her point of view. Akshay understood the meaning behind her words perfectly.
"I learned from you that girls have to compromise on their dreams for the sake of marriage."
Aahana gave a faint smile at his words. Akshay hesitantly said, "If you're upset about what your mother said, I apologize on her behalf. She seems a bit strict from the outside, but she's not bad at heart, and she was just testing you to see if you would prioritize your job or family if the need ever arose in the future."
"We know," Aahana said only that much and fell silent with this short reply. She had now composed herself quite a bit, her nervousness had reduced, and confidence was visible on her face. Seeing this, Akshay breathed a sigh of relief and asked the next question, "So, you wanted to become a doctor. Is that why you agreed to meet me?"
At his question, Aahana immediately nodded. "No. That... my uncle brought your proposal. Everyone said the boy was good, the family was good, so I should meet him once."
Aahana wanted to say much more, but out of shyness, she stopped after saying this much. She only answered to ensure Akshay wasn't under any misunderstanding.
"Okay, did you see my photo before meeting me?"
"Yes."
"Did you not like me?"
At his question, signs of nervousness reappeared on Aahana's face. With her eyes downcast, she sat completely silent. Her silence began to instill fear in Akshay's mind. Looking at her with restless eyes, he repeated his question with a little emphasis, "Answer me, Aahana, do you like me?"
Akshay waited for Aahana's answer with great anxiety. Aahana became a bit uncomfortable but couldn't remain silent, so she entangled the pallu of her saree in her fingers and hesitantly replied in a low voice, "You look good in appearance, but along with appearance, character should also be good. We don't have the art of liking someone just by looking at their appearance."
Akshay was somewhat satisfied with Aahana's answer. That was the same answer he had given. His anxiety reduced a little, and he continued the conversation. "That's a valid point. By the way, since you are a teacher, you must like teaching?"
"Yes, since we couldn't follow our passion, we made our hobby our passion and career."
"So, besides teaching, what other hobbies do you have?"
Aahana was silent for a moment after hearing this question, then she remembered Jayanti ji's advice to answer the boy's and his family's questions casually. Her silence might displease them, they might consider her silence as an insult, which could potentially spoil things. As soon as this thought crossed her mind, an answer escaped Aahana's fluttering lips: "I like reading, I also like writing, I enjoy cooking, and I also quite like listening to songs."
"Do you sing too?"
"We used to participate in competitions during school time. Now we just hum to ourselves."
Hearing Aahana's answer, a deep smile spread across Akshay's lips.
"You have quite good hobbies. By the way, what kind of books do you like, and what do you write, stories or poems?"
"We like romantic novels a lot in books. We also like motivational books. We like books related to life too."
"And what do you write?"
"That's a secret."
"So, can this secret not be revealed?"
"It can be, but we can't tell our secrets to everyone like this."
Akshay looked at her for a moment after hearing Aahana's answer, then looking at her with deep eyes, he said, "If our relationship gets established, will you ever share this secret of yours with me later on?"
"Perhaps."
"By the way, I've asked a lot of questions, but you haven't asked me anything yet. Won't you say anything? Won't you ask me anything?"
Aahana was silent at first, then said in an confused tone, "We don't understand what to say or what to ask."
"If you don't say anything and we don't have a conversation, how will we get to know each other, and without knowing and understanding each other, how can we decide whether we can spend our lives together or not?"
Coming soon.......
What will Aahana do? Will she be able to shed her hesitations and nervousness and ask Akshay the questions in her heart?
Āhānā was quiet at first, then said in a hesitant voice,
"We don't understand what to say or what to ask."
"If you don't say anything and there's no conversation between us, how will we get to know each other? And without knowing and understanding each other, how can we decide if we can spend our lives together?"
Āhānā nervously bit her lips, her troubled eyelids lowered, and she sat silently. She had somehow managed to answer the questions, but now she didn't understand what questions to ask. Seeing her flustered, Akshaya said seriously,
"Look, you don't need to be nervous. You can ask me anything without hesitation. ... This isn't a love marriage, it's arranged. We are complete strangers to each other. I understand that you must have many questions in your mind.
You can ask me any question without hesitation, know whatever you wish to know, so that after thinking carefully, you can decide whether I will be able to meet your expectations for the life partner you are looking for."
Āhānā looked around with a troubled gaze for a few moments, then hesitantly said,
"May I... may I ask one question? You won't mind, will you?"
"Ask without hesitation."
"Do you have a girlfriend?" Āhānā asked shyly and bit her lips. Nothing else had come to her mind, so she asked Akshaya the same question Antara had asked her. But now she got angry at her own question, thinking she had made a mistake. Who asks such a question? She lowered her head in embarrassment and squeezed her eyes shut.
Akshaya, who had absolutely no expectation of such a question from Āhānā, first stared at her in astonishment with wide pupils. Then, seeing the changing expression on Āhānā's face, he regained his composure and replied,
"No."
"Did you ever have one before?" Āhānā looked at him with pleading eyes. She was a little nervous, wondering what Akshaya would think of her, even though Akshaya had answered very calmly.
"No. As you know, I am my parents' first child, and there are many responsibilities on the elder child. They are not allowed to go astray. ... Although loving is not going astray. If the method is right, loving is not wrong, but I didn't have time for all this.
I had to fulfill my father's dream by becoming a doctor. I had the responsibility to guide my younger siblings on the right path, to be a worthy son to my parents so that I could reduce their worries. I got so entangled in my studies, family, and building my career that I never got the chance or time for all this.
And one reason for staying away from love was that I know what the environment in my family is like. Love marriage is simply not possible. Then, when love cannot reach its destination, what is the benefit of having a time-pass love? Therefore, I had decided that all my love would be for the girl who would come into my life as my wife."
He had given a satisfactory answer to anyone, and that too without hesitation. After pausing for a moment after answering, he continued,
"Is this what you wanted to ask me? Did you really think looking at me that I am the kind of boy who would have a relationship with a girl and then come to see you here? ... Do I look like a cheat or a two-timer from my face?"
Akshaya asked, raising his eyebrows. Hearing this, Āhānā faltered and quickly shook her head in denial.
"No... it's not like that. That happened with our, I mean, my younger sister's friend's elder sister. The boy ran away with her two days after the wedding. That's why she said we should ask beforehand if there's any affair.
We even said that the person telling might lie, but since you asked us to ask questions, this is the question that came to our minds, and we asked it. We apologize if you felt bad."
Āhānā said it all in one breath and fell silent after her explanation. Akshaya listened to her entire statement quietly and attentively, then looked at her with a deep gaze and asked,
"Are you nervous about me?"
Āhānā, who was taking deep breaths, was startled by his question. She first looked at him, then looked away, wiping her sweat with her palm.
"Okay, was this the only thing your sister asked you to ask, or did she want to know something else?"
Seeing her nervousness, Akshaya changed the subject. Āhānā looked at him with pleading eyes and hesitantly said in a low voice,
"She also asked if you eat non-vegetarian food or not."
"Do you like it?" Akshaya asked a question in return, and in response, Āhānā immediately shook her head in denial.
"No. Even looking at it makes us want to vomit. We can't even tolerate its smell, it upsets our stomach. Forget cooking it, just looking at it makes us feel disgusted."
"Then, if our relationship is formed, you will be at ease. Because not me, but no one in my house touches non-vegetarian food," Akshaya said with a slight smile. Hearing him, Āhānā looked at him for a moment, then hid her kohl-lined eyes under the fringe of her eyelids.
"And any other questions that your sister asked you to ask?"
"No."
"So, anything that you want to ask me?"
At Akshaya's question, Āhānā sat silently lost in her thoughts for a few moments. A few lines appeared on her forehead, and her face held expressions of confusion, as if she were caught in a dilemma.
Perhaps she wanted to ask something, but was hesitant. Akshaya understood this, so he pressed a little to bring Āhānā's heart's desire to her lips.
"Āhānā, if you want to ask anything, ask without hesitation."
"How much dowry will you take?" Āhānā asked abruptly, closing her eyes. With great difficulty, she strengthened her heart and asked this question, and once again, drops of sweat appeared on her forehead.
A fear had settled in a corner of her mind that perhaps this question of hers would ruin everything. So many hopes were pinned on this relationship, and now, with the question she had raised, all hopes might be shattered. But she couldn't live with the burden of keeping her heart's words to herself, so she gathered courage and asked the question. But now she started avoiding Akshaya's gaze.
"Dowry?" Akshaya was once again thoroughly shocked by her question. He had never remotely imagined that Āhānā would ask him such a question, and in such clear words. He was astonished and looked at her with wide pupils and disbelieving eyes.
Hearing his voice, Āhānā gathered her courage, opened her eyes, lowered her eyelids, and nodded as she said,
"Yes, dowry... Since you are a doctor, you will demand more dowry, right? But we are telling you that if you demand dowry, we will refuse the proposal. We will never marry someone for whom the dowry that comes with us is more important than us, who quotes a price for us and weighs the sacred relationship of marriage in money, who bargains over our emotions.
Our parents have invested a lot of money in raising us and making us stand on our own feet. They have made us capable so that we don't need to depend on anyone else, just so that we don't have to beg anyone for our needs in the future.
We cannot add another burden to their heads in the name of our marriage. We cannot see them worrying about arranging our dowry.
Our brother is getting married, but we haven't asked for a single penny from the girl's family because that family is already giving us their precious daughter. Similarly, we will marry the boy who will marry us, not the dowry that comes with us.
We are not saying that we will come empty-handed. No parents in the world send their daughters empty-handed, but there is a world of difference between giving from one's heart and demanding and pressuring them.
Whatever our parents give from their heart, we will bring only that. You will not get lakhs of dowry from us, because even if we remain unmarried our whole lives, we will never sacrifice our future and our family's future to the evil practice called dowry."
Āhānā had put forth her point of view, her say, with complete confidence, without any fear or hesitation. Without caring about the consequences of this step she had taken, she firmly announced her decision to him.
Akshaya just kept looking at this side of Āhānā. Perhaps every girl wants to raise her voice, but due to the chains of family honor, their upbringing, and their wishes, they lack the courage. But Āhānā had raised her voice, and her initiative was commendable.
Akshaya felt as if in this moment, Āhānā had descended into the depths of his heart, and his lips smiled involuntarily.
"And if you don't ask for dowry, will it be a 'yes' from your side?" The question escaped his lips unintentionally, and his heart impatiently waited for the answer.
Hearing his question, Āhānā looked at him, startled, as if she had heard something wrong. But seeing the serious expression on Akshaya's face, all her doubt vanished. The very next moment, she lowered her eyes and asked in a low voice,
"I don't know. That depends on Mom and Dad. If everyone agrees, then we won't refuse either."
"And if they refuse?" Akshaya's heart sank to the depths while asking this question, and his restlessness, eagerness, and anxiety increased when, instead of an answer, Āhānā's silence came his way.
"Don't you like me?"
Akshaya asked with a restless heart. This time, Āhānā's lowered eyelids fluttered slightly, and her lips quivered a little.
"Our liking or disliking doesn't matter. If Mom, Dad, and brother don't like the proposal, then the proposal won't happen."
"And if that happens, won't you feel even a little sad?" Akshaya asked another question and looked at her with anxious eyes.
Coming soon......
What will Āhānā answer to Akshaya's question? And what would you like to do about Āhānā's questions?
Akshay asked the question with a restless heart. This time, Aahana's lowered eyelids trembled slightly, and her lips fluttered softly.
"It doesn't matter whether we like it or not. If Mom, Dad, and brother don't like the relationship, there will be no relationship."
"And if that happens, won't you be sad at all?" Akshay asked another question and started looking at her with anxious eyes.
Aahana fell silent once again. For some reason, her silence pricked him, but he forgot that he himself had said the same to his siblings. If he, as a man, couldn't even think of going against his parents' wishes, then she was a woman; the chains of modesty were bound to her feet, and the burden of her family's honor was placed on her delicate shoulders. How could she make a decision that would question her parents' upbringing and the values they instilled? How could she even think of lowering their heads in shame in front of anyone, after they had taught her to live with her head held high with honor?
A few moments passed silently between them. Aahana sat silently with her eyes lowered, and Akshay gazed at her silently. Then, turning her gaze away from him, she said,
"If you have anything else to ask, please do, so that it becomes easier for you to form an opinion about me and make your decision."
"No, we don't have anything else to ask. If you have anything to ask, please ask."
"I have learned what I needed to know." After a brief pause, she continued,
"Shall we go downstairs?"
"Yes," Aahana nodded immediately. As she stood up, her sari got tangled in her sandal. She lost her balance, but before she could fall, two strong arms held her, and Akshay's worried voice reached her ears.
"Be careful, Aahana."
One of Akshay's arms was around her waist, while the other held Aahana's hand. Pressed against his chest, Aahana's breath hitched; her pupils widened in surprise; colors flushed and faded across her face; a shiver ran down her spine.
This masculine touch stirred her heart; the fragrance rising from Akshay's body made her restless. In a moment, things changed, and Aahana couldn't understand anything. Just as she was about to drown in these strange feelings, completely empty, Akshay's voice struck her ears, and she snapped back to her senses with a start. In her haste, she struggled to get away from Akshay, and he easily let her go.
Aahana quickly stepped back two paces and nervously flicked her pupils beneath her lowered eyelids. A flush of shyness spread across her face, and beads of sweat appeared on her forehead in her nervousness.
For the first time in her life, she had been so close to a man other than her brother and father, and her heart was still beating in a different rhythm.
She felt uncomfortable and couldn't even meet Akshay's eyes, while Akshay's gaze was still fixed on her shyly pink face, the awareness of which only increased Aahana's nervousness.
Aahana, still withdrawn and nervous, stood entangled in these unique feelings, when she felt as if someone had touched her foot. Startled, she pulled her foot back and looked to see Akshay sitting at her feet.
Aahana's eyes widened in surprise, while Akshay, having completed his task, stood up and said with a slight smile,
"Your steps won't falter now."
Aahana's mind went blank. She looked at him with confused eyes as if wanting to know the meaning of his words.
Akshay, understanding her question without her asking, deepened his smile.
"Your sari was tangled in your sandals; it's fine now."
In just a few words, Akshay had answered her question, and as Aahana replayed what had just happened in her mind, she finally understood what had happened and what Akshay had been doing sitting down. Strange expressions appeared on Aahana's face, and she stared at him, bewildered and perplexed.
On the other side, Anvay, who had come to call them, stopped near the stairs upon hearing the voices from the roof. When Antara, who was behind him, saw him, her eyebrows furrowed and drew together, and a stern expression appeared on her face.
Anvay was still straining his ears, trying to listen to the conversation between the two on the roof, when an angry, harsh voice struck his ears.
"What is this leech doing clinging to our wall?"
Hearing the voice, Anvay turned his eyes in surprise to find Antara standing right in front of him, hands on her hips, glaring at him angrily.
"Shhh..." Anvay hastily tried to put his finger on her mouth to silence her, but before his finger could touch Antara's lips, Antara caught his finger midway, twisted it, and said angrily through gritted teeth,
"You are a shameless kind of man! Don't you even have the manners not to eavesdrop on people's private conversations like this?"
A soft whimper escaped Anvay's lips. He felt the realization of his mistake keenly, but how could he admit his mistake? So, he concocted a white lie in his defense.
"Madam, you must have some misunderstanding. I wasn't eavesdropping on anyone here, but rather waiting for their conversation to finish."
Upon hearing his explanation, Antara glared at him with sharp, predatory eyes, forcing Anvay to flinch.
"I'm forgiving you, considering it your first mistake. If I catch you again, I won't let you go so easily," Antara threatened him with great emphasis, and seeing her attitude, Anvay exclaimed in surprise,
"What a riotous girl you are!"
"Not a riot, call it a sensation. I am the item bomb of Kanpur," Antara said, flicking the collar of her kurta with great flair and admiring herself. Anvay's lips stretched into a faint smile as he looked at her.
When Antara saw him smiling, she kicked his foot in anger. A cry of pain escaped Anvay's lips, which he barely suppressed, otherwise, a crowd would have gathered here.
Anvay, writhing in pain, looked at Antara in surprise, while Antara mercilessly crushed his foot and walked ahead.
Anvay shook his head helplessly and then, rubbing his foot, followed her. The voices of both of them were so loud that although the people below didn't hear them, the two people on the roof were alerted.
Antara, admiring herself, reached Aahana, who was standing with her eyes lowered.
"Didi, did you spend all the time blushing, or did you ask what I told you to ask?" Antara asked the first question as soon as she arrived, but it was Akshay who answered instead of Aahana.
"Yes, your Didi asked questions and got answers."
"What answers did you get?" Antara now addressed Akshay directly. Hearing her question, Akshay glanced at Aahana and then replied with a soft smile,
"Ask your Didi after we leave; she will surely tell you our answer."
As Akshay finished speaking, Anvay also arrived.
"Brother, if you're done talking, shall we go downstairs? Everyone is waiting for you."
Akshay nodded and, glancing at Aahana, turned to leave. As they left, Antara eagerly asked Aahana,
"Didi, what did you two talk about? What answer did he give to my questions? Did you like him?"
"Let's go downstairs, Antara; everyone must be waiting," Aahana said, evading the question, to which Antara nodded, making a face.
When Aahana reached downstairs with Antara, her eyes involuntarily drifted to where Akshay was sitting, still talking to his sister. Everyone else was also conversing amongst themselves.
After a while, the guests were preparing to leave. Akshay had gone to wash his hands with Anvay, and Nishant was also with them.
"Are you here to see our Didi?" Akshay heard Nishant's words as he was washing his hands. He turned his head to look at him and nodded in agreement.
"Yes."
"Why have you come to see our Didi?"
His next question left Akshay in a bit of confusion, and he said uncertainly,
"What answer should I give to this question?"
"The truth," Nishant asked directly, as if directed at Antara. Seeing Akshay confused, Anvay draped an arm around Nishant's shoulder and replied with a smile,
"We liked your Didi, that's why we came to see her."
"So, will you take our Didi away?" Nishant asked, looking at both brothers with wide eyes. Hearing his question, Anvay replied, glancing sideways at Akshay,
"Not yet, but if our brother likes your Didi, he will soon come with a wedding procession and take your Didi away with him forever."
"Forever?" Poor Nishant was now scared. The thought of his Didi being taken away from him forever made him restless, and Akshay understood this. He gently placed his hand on his head and replied softly,
"Don't worry, we won't take your Didi away yet, and whenever we do, your right over your Didi will remain first. She will keep visiting."
Nishant just nodded, but he was still sad, clearly showing how much he loved his Didi, which both Akshay and Anvay sensed.
Seeing Nishant sad, Akshay made a gesture to Anvay with his eyes, and Anvay, understanding, nodded with a smile and started engaging Nishant in conversation to lift his mood.
"Brother, it was very nice meeting all of you. We really liked Aahana, our daughter. After talking amongst ourselves, we will let you know our decision in a day or two, and if our family is connected with yours, it will be our good fortune," said the soft-spoken Abhijit Ji while bidding farewell to Jitendra Ji.
"If our daughter goes into your family, it will be a matter of happiness for us," Jitendra Ji also expressed his desire in a few words. He also urged them to stay.
"It would be good if you all stayed here today. You have come after such a long journey and haven't eaten or drunk anything properly yet. If you stayed a little longer, it would be time for dinner. You could rest here tonight and leave in the morning."
"Thank you very much, but it doesn't feel right to stay like this. Our friend's house is nearby; we have already spoken to them. We will stay there tonight," Abhijit Ji said hesitantly. Jitendra Ji then said with some disappointment,
"We would be happy if you stayed here. We would also get an opportunity to host you."
"If God wills and the relationship is established, we will surely give you this opportunity. For now, please permit us to leave."
Abhijit Ji politely refused their request. Jitendra Ji now accepted his decision. While Akshay, along with Anvay and Falak, took leave after joining their hands, Aahana also bowed respectfully to all the elders before leaving. Then the groom's party took their leave.
Jitendra Ji, Drishant, and the other men came out with them. Akshay had already left with everyone else. Aahana had been sent to her room to change, and the others were busy wrapping up downstairs.
After dinner, all the elders were gathered in the hall below, deliberating and presenting their respective viewpoints. Meanwhile, Bhabhi, Pallavi, and Antara were having a lively time in Ahana’s room. The three had bombarded Ahana with questions, but she either remained silent or deflected them, seeming to avoid saying anything.
There’s a saying, you know, that if you can’t get ghee out with a straight finger, you should bend it. Following this very saying, Bhabhi changed her questioning tactic. Looking at Ahana with mischievous eyes, she said in a playful tone,
"Anu, you were so nervous about meeting Akshay ji, as if he would turn into a monster with ten heads and long teeth upon finding you alone, and devour our innocent, delicate Nand. So, how was it after meeting and talking to him? Did he really attack you?"
Hearing her question, while Antara and Pallavi looked at Bhabhi with wide eyes in surprise, Ahana’s displeased gaze rose towards them.
"Bhabhi."
"What Bhabhi? We are just concerned about you, that’s why we’re asking if he did anything to you when he found you alone?" Bhabhi put on a serious face, hiding her mischievous smile. Hearing her, Ahana pouted and said with displeasure,
"He didn’t do anything, and he wasn’t a monster who would eat us, so please don’t feign false concern."
"Well, concern is good, but tell us, if that was the case, why were you so nervous meeting and talking to him alone?"
Ahana fell silent again at this question and lowered her head. Antara immediately sat next to her and asked with great curiosity,
"Didi, just tell us what answers he gave to our questions?"
"They don’t eat non-vegetarian food in their house, and there’s no other girl in his life. He said he has saved all his love for the girl he will marry."
"Oh wow! What an answer, it made my heart happy. That girl who will be part of his life will be very fortunate." Pallavi was quite impressed by Akshay’s answer, and Bhabhi also smiled, while Antara probably already knew this would be the answer, so her expression didn’t change much.
"Didi, how did you find him?"
"Yes Anu, even if you don’t tell us what you talked about, at least tell us how you found Akshay ji?"
Pallavi echoed Antara’s sentiment and asked Ahana. So why would Bhabhi stay silent? She also asked Ahana,
"Anu, we also want to know how you felt after meeting and talking to Akshay ji? How did you find Akshay ji, and what is your decision about this relationship?"
Here, all three were questioning Ahana, while in Ahana’s mind, those few moments spent with Akshay were replaying. His talk was natural, simple, his behavior; Ahana was being drawn towards him against her will.
The way he held her to save her from falling without caring about anything, how he bent down to fix her saree. Ahana realized he had no trace of masculine ego. There was no pretense; what you saw was what you got.
Ahana thought about Akshay for a few moments, then she remembered Rupali ji’s behavior, and a serious expression appeared on her face.
"Bhabhi, we don’t want to nurture any dream in our eyes that remains incomplete and causes pain in our hearts every moment, and we get torn between our heart and mind."
Hearing Ahana’s answer, all three widened their pupils, looking at her in astonishment and confusion. Bhabhi, surprised, even asked,
"What is the meaning of this, Anu?"
"The meaning is, Bhabhi, that we feel there is no match between him and us, and we don’t want to think about someone who cannot be ours, because we cannot live our lives dedicating ourselves to someone after making a place for someone else in our heart and holding someone else’s hand."
This answer brought serious expressions to the faces of all three. Pallavi held her shoulder and looked at her with worried eyes, saying in a worried tone,
"Anu, what happened? Why are you speaking like this? Did Akshay ji say something to you?"
"No, he didn’t say anything. His behavior was very good, but perhaps his mother didn’t like us. She seemed a bit indifferent. When we were leaving, everyone blessed us, but she didn’t say a word, not even falsely. That’s why we feel there will be no relation between us. And if the relationship isn’t meant to be, we don’t even want to think about it."
"I also found Aunty’s behavior a bit strange. She looked grumpy from her face, and her words made it clear that her thinking is quite backward. She also seemed a bit irritated." Bhabhi also agreed with Ahana’s words, recalling Rupali ji’s behavior.
Pallavi also remembered her comment on her and Drishant’s relationship, and her expression soured a bit.
"She seemed like a woman with old-fashioned, conservative thinking. Strictly against love marriages, and her words suggested that she wouldn’t favor her daughter-in-law working outside. She’s very proud of her daughter. If Ahana gets married into that family, she will create a lot of difficulties in her life."
"It’s better that Didi doesn’t get married there than having such a grumpy mother-in-law." Antara also made a face. Everyone was annoyed by Rupali’s behavior.
Ahana sat silently, listening to everyone’s words. When Bhabhi saw Ahana sitting so quietly and lost in thought, she gently touched her cheek and said,
"Anu, don’t think about everyone now. If Mahadev has chosen Akshay ji for you, no matter how many difficulties come your way, your relationship will be with him, and if things don’t work out here, you don’t need to be disheartened, because if the relationship didn’t happen here, it means Mahadev has planned something better for you. So, leave the worries about what will happen next and what won’t happen to Mahadev; he will handle everything." She explained to Ahana with great affection. Ahana nodded in agreement, a slight smile gracing her lips.
"Ahana, don’t let anyone make that special place in your heart so easily, because you won’t be able to build a relationship with someone else after making a place for someone else in your heart." Bhabhi advised Ahana very lovingly. Ahana nodded again.
"Now, let’s sleep; we’re very tired." Ahana made an excuse to avoid all these talks, and although they understood, everyone remained silent.
On the other side, the Sehgal family and the people who came with them were supposed to go somewhere else, but Rupali ji decided to return home, and everyone departed from Kanpur for Delhi.
On the way back, Anvay was driving, while Akshay sat in the passenger seat next to him. Carrying some unspoken feelings in his heart, he was thinking about his meeting with Ahana when Abhijit ji started the conversation,
"We found the people to be very good, simple, and kind-hearted. They have instilled such good values in their children. Ahana is good for Akshay; what do you say, Rupali ji?"
Rupali ji seemed to be waiting for this moment. Seizing the opportunity, she said in a sharp tone,
"Yes, they have instilled very good values, which is why the elder son of the house is going for a love marriage."
"Where is it a love marriage? Didn’t you hear what they said?" Abhijit ji immediately interrupted her. In response, Rupali ji said irritably,
"He lied. He told us a false story to maintain his family’s honor."
"Even if it was a lie, and even if the children were actually getting married out of love, we have no objection to that. The children haven’t made any wrong decisions by putting family honor and dignity aside. Their marriage is happening with their parents’ consent, and we found the girl to be very good. She handled everything so well, even though she isn’t even married yet." Abhijit ji supported again, which Rupali ji did not like at all.
"You find everyone good, but let me tell you, we did not like this at all. We are not in favor of love marriages at all. When the elder son of the house is like that, what can we say about his sister? It’s possible she might also be having an affair somewhere; after all, younger siblings follow in the footsteps of their elders."
Rupali ji directly questioned Ahana’s character, taunting her integrity, which Akshay did not like at all. His expression started to sour, but before he could say anything, Abhijit ji immediately and strictly interrupted her,
"Don’t say anything, Rupali ji. Ahana is a very sweet and sensible girl. Don’t commit the sin of questioning her character. She is the honor of that house and the pride of her parents. She can never do anything that would make her parents feel ashamed in front of anyone.
And as you said that younger siblings learn from their elders, if something like that were happening with Ahana, just as her parents arranged her brother’s marriage with a girl of his choice, instead of looking for a match elsewhere for her, they would have married her to the person she liked.
In this much time, we have understood that for Jitendra ji, his children’s happiness matters the most, so I’ve said what I had to say, and don’t bring this up again. It is not befitting for a mother to question another daughter’s character like this. Think about how you would feel if someone said this about our Falak?"
Abhijit ji had silenced Rupali ji with his response. There was no further conversation after that.
Akshay was restless, and his mood had soured after hearing his mother’s words. He leaned his head against the seat, closed his eyes, but with his eyes closed, Ahana’s innocent and lovely face appeared before his closed eyelids.
The next moment, Akshay opened his eyes and started looking out the window. Anvay, sitting next to him, felt his restlessness and anxiety but remained quiet. Falak also couldn’t say anything.
The streets were empty at night and cars raced down them at full speed. Late at night, everyone reached their destinations in Delhi.
Weary Akshay entered his room, followed closely by Anvay and Falak. They hadn't had a chance to talk on the way, so now both of them had barged into Akshay's room.
Akshay was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't say anything either and quietly moved towards the cupboard. Anvay's eyes sparkled with mischief and his heart descended into naughtiness. Remembering the scene on the terrace, he imitated Akshay's acting.
"Be careful, Aahana."
Hearing him, Akshay turned around in surprise and looked at him. Meanwhile, Falak looked at Anvay questioningly, asking in surprise.
"Anvay, what suddenly happened to you?"
"Nothing happened to me, Di, but a lot has happened to our dear brother. Do you know what I saw when I went to call him?"
Anvay spoke very mysteriously, looking at Akshay sideways. Akshay narrowed his eyes and stared at him. Falak also asked curiously.
"What did you see? Tell me too."
Anvay glanced at Akshay and then began to narrate with great interest.
"I saw that Aahanaji was about to fall, and seeing her about to fall, our dear brother rushed towards her restlessly. He panicked as if Aahanaji would get hurt if she fell. He moved towards her with the speed of the wind and, holding her in his arms, said anxiously,
'Be careful, Aahana.'
Oh my! What a romantic scene it was! I swear, Di, I felt like cheering loudly, but I considered the elders present downstairs."
Anvay told Falak everything dramatically. Akshay was surprised that Anvay was there at that time and had seen and heard everything secretly, but the way he was teasing him now...
Akshay's angry eyes were fixed on him. Meanwhile, Falak, with wide, surprised eyes, looked at him, then at Akshay, appearing bewildered. It seemed as if she didn't believe Anvay's words, and that was true, because as soon as Anvay finished speaking, she questioned Akshay.
"Bhaiya, what Anvay is saying... is it true?"
Akshay glared at Anvay with eyes that could devour him, then said irritably, "You don't need to fall for this drama. He is in the habit of exaggerating everything, especially when it's about me. He enjoys bothering me."
"Meaning Anvay is lying?" Falak asked, her eyes wide with surprise. Akshay was initially confused, then said seriously,
"No, he's not lying, but it's not like what he described. Her saree got caught in her sandal, which is why she was about to fall, and I just saved her from falling out of humanity."
"Oh, really. You just saved her from falling out of humanity, so what was that about sitting at her feet and fixing her saree? Was that also out of humanity?" Anvay immediately questioned Akshay's excuse. Akshay first glared at him, then shook his head regretfully and said,
"I wasn't confessing my love by sitting at her feet, I was just removing her saree from her sandal, otherwise she would have fallen again."
Akshay offered his explanation, after hearing which Anvay and Falak exchanged glances. After talking, Anvay sprawled on Akshay's bed and asked,
"Alright brother, leave all this aside and tell us, how did you like Aahanaji? Did you like her or not?"
"What difference does it make what Bhaiya likes? Didn't you see how angry Mummy was when she returned? I don't think she will agree to this relationship, and Bhaiya won't go against her wishes, so her becoming our Bhabhi is impossible." Falak also sat next to him.
The thought of Aahana crossed Akshay's mind, and a peaceful smile settled on his lips. As soon as he remembered Rupali Ji's words, his smile faded. His heart became restless once again. Anvay and Falak watched him closely.
"Brother, tell us, how did you like Aahanaji?"
Anvay insisted on his question. When Akshay's ears registered his words, he came out of his thoughts and, shaking his head, said,
"She was as she was, that's how I liked her, but you will have a lot of trouble if you don't vacate my room before I return. So, both of you get up and go to your respective rooms, and let me rest too.
You have no work. If you play around now, you'll sleep like a log tomorrow, but I have to go to the hospital tomorrow morning, and for that, resting now is very important, at least for me."
Akshay reprimanded them both and threatened them before taking his clothes and going into the bathroom. After he left, Falak and Anvay looked at each other and, shaking their heads helplessly and regretfully, said,
"Nothing can be done about them."
Both of them made a sour face and left the room.
After a while, Akshay returned to the room and, as he expected, the room was empty. Akshay let out a deep sigh and collapsed onto the bed. He was indeed very tired, but there wasn't a drop of sleep in his eyes. His heart and mind were terribly entangled, and his mind was restless, as if something very important was slipping away from him.
On the other hand, Antara had also fallen asleep peacefully, clinging to Aahana, but Aahana's eyes were not sleepy. The thought of Akshay kept recurring in her mind, making her heart restless.
She shook her head, trying to remove his thought from her mind, but after a while, his thought would dominate her heart and mind again.
The next day began with both of them in a rush. Staying up late the night before, they woke up late and then rushed to their respective work.
Quickly, five-six days passed since Akshay and Aahana met. Falak had gone to her in-laws'. After the argument in the car that day, whenever Abhijit Ji brought up the topic, Rupali Ji deflected.
When there was no discussion, how could any decision be reached? Everyone who went with them was in favor of this relationship, but only Rupali Ji knew what she wanted. They had come saying they would stay for two days, but even after so many days, she couldn't give an answer.
Anvay was busy with his father's electronics showroom work these days. Abhijit Ji's health was a bit poor, and in his absence, he handled all the responsibilities there.
Akshay was very busy with his job. He would leave in the morning and return tired at night. Moreover, he was disturbed by the unresolved relationship in the meantime.
Aahana had appealed to him at first sight, and ever since he met her, her thoughts never left his mind. Knowingly or unknowingly, she had settled in his heart, and why wouldn't she, when she was exactly the kind of girl he was looking for. Aahana fit perfectly into the mold he had envisioned for his life partner.
Her biting her lip in nervousness, her shyly lowering her eyelids upon meeting his gaze, her stating her point in clear words, and then avoiding eye contact, her shrinking into herself, intimidated by his closeness, her cheeks turning pink with shyness.
Every gesture of hers had left a deep impression on Akshay, which he couldn't deny even if he wanted to. First, her lowered eyelids had stolen his peace, and now those big, kajal-filled, frightened eyes were etched in his mind. He was not unaware of his heart's state, so the strange silence hanging over the house on this matter was making him restless.
Abhijit Ji was waiting for everyone in the family to sit together so he could discuss this serious matter with them. Today, he got that opportunity. It was Sunday, so after breakfast, everyone sat together in the drawing-room. Akshay was reading the newspaper, Anvay was using his phone, and Falak had also been called.
Abhijit Ji looked at everyone, then started his speech, building up to the conversation.
"We have been thinking for the past few days that when everyone is together, we should discuss this matter with everyone, take everyone's opinion, and then make any decision."
Everyone understood the meaning of his words and stopped their work to look at him. After a pause, he continued.
"Akshay's marriage must happen soon. After that, we also need to think about Anvay. So far, among all the girls we have seen for Akshay, we found Aahana to be the most capable of becoming Akshay's wife and the daughter-in-law of this house. She is beautiful, intelligent, responsible, a sweet child with a calm demeanor. She understands the importance of relationships and knows how to maintain them.
Aahana is exactly the kind of girl Akshay was looking for. Her family is also good. We don't see any flaw in this relationship. Now, all of you, please give your opinions so that we can reach a decision and convey our answer to Jitendra Ji, who has asked for our reply twice already, and it doesn't seem right to keep him waiting and delaying any further.
Whatever decision is made, the sooner it is made, the better, so that they can also think about their daughter's future, and we can also look ahead for Akshay."
Abhijit Ji had placed his wish and his dilemma before everyone, and now he was waiting for everyone else's answers. Akshay, Anvay, and Falak all looked at each other, while Rupali Ji immediately expressed her disagreement with his statement and gave her answer.
"We do not agree with your decision. We found neither that family capable of joining ours, nor that girl suitable for our son."
As everyone expected, it happened. She had clearly refused this relationship. For Akshay, there was no point in staying here anymore. How could he watch his dreams being crushed with his own eyes? He got up to leave, gathering his broken heart, when Abhijit Ji's stern voice reached his ears.
"Akshay, sit back down. Until we reach a decision today, no one is allowed to leave from here."
It was his father's order, so he sat back down, his heart resigned. Falak and Anvay, who had been aware of Akshay's feelings and wishes from day one, furrowed their brows, looking at Akshay, then at each other.
Although they knew Akshay wouldn't say anything, there was still a hope that perhaps he would speak up for his happiness. Without his support, no one would listen to them, but seeing Akshay silent, all their hopes were now resting solely on Abhijit Ji.
After Akshay, Abhijit Ji turned to Rupali Ji and said in a very serious tone,
"We want to know the reason behind what you just said. Although this is their family matter, if you are saying this because of your son's love marriage, then let us tell you that he has raised his children with such good values that even though they are in love, they are marrying with their parents' consent and blessings. If they had eloped and gotten married or taken any wrong step in love, we would have understood your point, but this is not the case.
Both families are happy with their relationship, and if our children bring someone in front of us and say that this is their love and they want to include them in their lives, then after assessing their choice, if we find them suitable for our family and children, we would embrace them wholeheartedly, because loving someone is not a crime, Rupali Ji.
Besides, after marriage, Aahana will have to come to our house, become a part of this family. She will have to adopt the customs and traditions here, not that Akshay will go and live in their house. We should see if Aahana is capable of becoming the daughter-in-law of our house. Her brother and sister-in-law's personal lives should have no connection to her joining this family."
"Even setting that aside, we did not find Aahana worthy of our son."
"Why not? Tell us the reason why you think she is not worthy of Akshay. She answered all your questions correctly, according to her conscience. At your behest, she even said she would leave her job, even though she must have worked so hard to get that job, and from a teacher's job, she could have managed both home and outside responsibilities well.
We were satisfied with all her answers, but if you are not, then tell us the reason, what flaw did you find in her, because we cannot insult a daughter by refusing the relationship without any reason after seeing her. We need a reason, which we can tell them to refuse the relationship."
What reason will Rupali Ji give, and what will be the outcome of Aahana and Akshay's relationship?
"We were satisfied with all their answers, but you are not. So tell us the reason, what deficiency did you notice in them? Because after seeing someone's daughter and coming back, we cannot insult them by refusing the relationship without any reason. We need a reason, so that by telling them, we can refuse the relationship."
"Look, we were not in favor of this relationship from the beginning. But she was your friend's niece, so we went there under your pressure. Jitendra ji is an ordinary schoolmaster. He has retired now. After Ahana, he has another young daughter, whose marriage responsibility also rests on him. Then there is a young son too, whose educational expenses are also on him.
The elder son earns, but his own marriage is due. After marriage, he will have his own family. In such a situation, brother-in-law will have to think about everything from now on. We won't get much dowry from there. The last girl we saw, we are getting 15 lakhs dowry from there. We will finalize the deal for more than this."
Everyone was shocked and kept looking at Rupali ji after hearing her reply. No one could believe their ears. Although what she said was true, and in our society, most people think like this.
They don't reject the girl, they reject the dowry that she was going to bring with her, because they are getting more elsewhere. The higher the post the boy holds, the bigger the dowry he demands, and the more flaws the girl has, the higher the dowry increases. Rupali ji had not said anything unusual, but Akshay found her words distasteful.
He immediately opposed her statement in a firm voice, with displeasure.
"Mom, I already told you not to talk about dowry in front of me. I want to get married, I am not ready to sell myself. What you are doing, auctioning me off, saying that you will marry me to whoever pays the highest price.
Why don't you understand my simple point, Mom, that relationships built on money and greed never give satisfaction and true happiness. I don't understand if you want to bring a wife for me and a daughter-in-law for this house, or a money-printing machine? Why are you so greedy for dowry?"
Hearing Akshay's words, Rupali ji retorted sarcastically.
"If so much money has been spent on educating you, then won't you recover some of it in dowry?"
"So, did you give birth to me just so that one day you could bargain for me in the name of dowry? Did you educate me and make me capable of this so that you could take account of every penny spent on me from my future wife and her family? Did you bring me into this world relying on them? If that was the case, Mom, you shouldn't have educated me.
Excuse me, Mom, but I don't agree with your thinking. If you have educated me and spent on me, then their family has also educated them and made them stand on their own feet. They have also incurred expenses, and now they are going to give us their lifetime savings. They are giving us their precious diamond in the form of their daughter, and I don't think it is right to pressure them for dowry.
Didn't you see how much trouble we had during Falak's time? Even after that, you want to ask for dowry?"
Akshay, suppressing his anger, tried to explain his point as calmly as possible. But Rupali ji was not ready to understand anything. She said in an indignant tone,
"If it's being given, won't we take it?"
"I was not in favor of giving it, Mom, but you didn't listen to me then. You silenced me by citing Falak's good future. We are still paying the price for that.
The greed of those greedy people is increasing with time, they make new demands every day, and if Falak remains happy in return, we would gladly give all our wealth for her, but you and I both know how much struggle Falak has to endure there.
If you had listened to me then, Falak's life would have been better today. Sumit ji supports her a lot, that's why I am tolerating everything, but I cannot do to my future wife what happened to Falak.
First, you married Falak into that greedy family, and now you want to take dowry in my marriage, but I will not let that happen. If everyone keeps thinking like this, this custom will never end, and it is very important for the custom that is hollowing out society like termites to end. Someone has to take the initiative for that... so I will take the initiative.
No matter whom I marry, it is certain that I will not take a single penny in dowry for my wedding. My wife will only bring what her family, according to their capacity and their own will, gives her."
"Everyone takes dowry. We are not doing anything different."
"Don't you always say, Mom, that if everyone jumps into a well, we won't jump with them? God has given us a brain to think and understand, so let's use our discretion and do what is right. Then why are you becoming like everyone else now?"
"If we don't take dowry, what will we say to the neighbors and relatives when they ask what the daughter-in-law brought with her?"
"Girls are considered forms of Lakshmi. Lakshmi will come to the house as a daughter-in-law, what more can you wish for? If anyone asks, tell them that the daughter-in-law has come as Lakshmi."
"Akshay, it doesn't happen like that. Dowry has to be given in a wedding."
"If this is your stubbornness, then I will not get married at all, Mom, and this is my final decision. Then when those same neighbors and relatives question you why the son is not getting married, proudly tell them why I am not getting married."
Rupali ji presented a hundred arguments, but Akshay rejected them all. He tried his best to explain to her, but she also stuck to her stubbornness. Finally, Akshay announced his firm decision, at which Rupali ji's eyes widened in disbelief.
She was well aware of her son's stubbornness, that once he made a decision, he would not listen to anyone. Therefore, she got worried and, seeing herself losing the battle against her son, decided to seek Abhijit ji's help.
"Why don't you explain something to him? Look, how stubbornly he is sitting."
"The child has grown up, Rupali ji. He has the understanding to differentiate between good and bad, right and wrong, so what can we say now? Besides, he is saying the right thing. What is lacking in our life? Why unnecessarily pressure the girl's family for dowry?
Besides, the daughter-in-law should be good, what about money? It comes and goes... If we bring a girl who can't keep our child happy or manage our family, with lakhs of dowry, what will we do with that lakhs of dowry?"
Rupali ji was flustered by Abhijit ji's answering question. After all, she too had supported Akshay. After hearing her father and brother, Falak also decided to put forth her point.
"Brother is right, Mom. Dad and brother work, and now Anvay has also completed his studies. There is no shortage in our house, so what is the need to take dowry?
We should look for a girl who can keep brother happy, who can manage this family, just like you have. Who considers you like her sister, so that I never lose my maternal home.
I found Ahana ji very good. She is very sweet, beautiful, and stands on her own feet. She is exactly what we are looking for in a life partner for brother.
It would not be right to reject their relationship by ignoring all her qualities just for the sake of dowry. She is so good, she will find a good boy and a good family like herself, but we might not find such a girl for brother again."
"I agree with Di's words too. If you find any flaw in Ahana ji, due to which you don't want to connect her with brother, then tell us the reason, and if you are refusing this relationship just for the greed of dowry, then don't do it, because even if you bring a daughter-in-law to this house with more dowry, you won't be able to buy your brother's life's happiness with that dowry money."
Anvay also tried to explain to Rupali ji by presenting his point of view and also expressed his desire to make Ahana his sister-in-law. After hearing everyone's words, Abhijit ji asked Akshay,
"Akshay, you also tell us what you want? If you also like Ahana, then we will say yes to the relationship."
Hearing his question, Akshay first looked at the three of them who had chosen Ahana for him, then got up and came to Rupali ji, and sitting in front of her, held her palms in his.
"Mom, I know that you are doing what you have seen, heard, and what has been happening in this society for centuries, but demanding dowry in marriage not only puts an unwanted burden on the girl's family but also creates a rift in that newly forming relationship.
In the olden days, this was common, but today's girl, especially an educated girl who stands on her own feet, will never want a husband who demands dowry in exchange for marrying her. Even if she gets bound by the relationship, she will never be able to respect that person wholeheartedly, because she will never forget that her parents paid the price for her relationship and suffered because of it.
If you want, ask Falak if she doesn't have this complaint against Sumit ji that he married her after taking dowry, and couldn't dare to say in front of his parents that they like our Falak and don't want dowry for marrying her...
I absolutely do not want to form such a relationship, Mom. This dowry system is hollowing out this society, and only the boy can take the initiative to end it, because every mother-father will give dowry for their daughter's marriage, even by selling themselves, because they cannot keep their daughter at home for her whole life. But if the boys themselves refuse to take dowry, this custom will gradually end. There will be a change in society, then no girl will be a burden on her parents.
Then what is lacking in our house? I earn, I will fulfill all the needs, for that we don't need to take dowry from anyone else in exchange for marrying their daughter. Please give up this stubbornness, because I will never get married by taking dowry.
Yes, if you don't like Ahana, you like someone else, I will marry whomever you say, Mom, but I will not take a rupee of dowry in the wedding."
Akshay tried his best to explain to her lovingly. She had to bow down to her son's stubbornness.
"If this is your decision, then we won't say anything now. You won't take dowry in your wedding, but you have to get married."
Hearing Rupali ji's words, a sense of relief dawned on Akshay's worried, tense face, and his lips curved into a faint smile.
"I will marry whomever you say, Mom."
Hearing Akshay's reply, both Anvay and Falak's foreheads creased with worry, and they looked at Akshay with troubled eyes. Meanwhile, Abhijit ji seriously asked Rupali ji,
"Now tell me Rupali ji, what is your decision? Should we say yes to Ahana or refuse them?"
Hearing his question, Rupali ji looked at Akshay and lovingly touched his cheek and said, "You tell me, son, what do you want? Do you like Ahana?"
"Mom, I didn't find any flaw in her that I would reject her. She is a calm, sensible, composed, soft-spoken, respectful of elders, and cultured girl who understands the importance of relationships and knows how to maintain them...
That's what I felt, but if you find any flaw in her, then choose another girl. And if you find her capable of becoming my wife and the daughter-in-law of this house, then I have no objection to this relationship, but the final decision will be yours, because I will bring only the girl my mother likes as my wife into this house."
Akshay did not give a direct answer and left the final decision to Rupali ji. Hearing his reply, the faces of the three people present there showed signs of tension, while a proud smile spread across Rupali ji's lips.
What decision will Rupali ji make? Will Akshay get trapped in his own words?
Everyone at Shukla's residence had gathered for breakfast. They had all been waiting for Abhijit Ji's call and his response for the past few days. Jitendra Ji had even called him twice, but there was still no clear answer. Ahaana's situation was stuck in limbo. If it was a rejection, they could look for another alliance, but they couldn't do that now. As the wait dragged on, their hopes for this alliance were dwindling. Time seemed to be passing slowly, and all they could discuss was this. "Papa, have you received a clear answer from them yet? Two days were mentioned, and now a week is about to pass. They keep delaying. They neither say yes nor no. It's not possible to finalize anything like this. You should call them and ask for a clear answer. If they refuse, we can look for another alliance for Ahaana." Drishant was very serious, and his point was valid. How long could they wait for a response? Jitendra Ji listened carefully, understanding the gravity of the situation. He replied, "Beta, we understand your concerns, but try to see it from our perspective. We are the ones with the girl, and we have already asked them twice. Repeatedly calling them might give them the impression that we are very eager to marry off our daughter and get relieved of our responsibility. It might seem like we are trying to hurry them. Perhaps they think our daughter has some flaw, and that's why we want to marry her off quickly. We need to be patient; otherwise, it might harm the alliance and raise questions about Anu." Drishant agreed with his father, but he was still firm on his point. "I understand, Papa, but they also need to understand. They haven't said yes or no. They're keeping us hanging. If they don't want this alliance, why not say so clearly? How long should we keep waiting without any hope?" Jayanthi Ji also supported Drishant's viewpoint. "I think we should have been more cautious. That day, Rupali Ji's behavior seemed off. We've been suspecting a refusal since then. If they were interested, they would have responded by now." Even Antara, who had been quietly listening to all this, spoke up. "Papa, I think they're probably checking other girls. That's why they're delaying. If it takes this long to make a decision, it's unlikely they are interested. Their aunt seemed annoyed, maybe they're not interested in the alliance. We shouldn't wait without any hope. If you don't want to call them, talk to Mamaji. He knows them and can discuss it." Jitendra Ji explained, "Your Mamaji asked us to wait a bit longer. He said we won't find another match like this for Ahaana. The family is good, and they are all very cordial. Only Rupali Ji can be a bit strict, but she's not evil. Ahaana will be happy in that house." Antara frowned. "She's not just strict, Papa; she's very haughty and arrogant. If Gigi marries into that house, she'll torment her. I'm worried about Ahaana." Jayanthi Ji comforted her. "Beta, mothers-in-law are usually like that. You have to adjust and make sacrifices. This is all part of understanding and maintaining relationships. You are still young to understand this. But know that if Ahaana marries into that house, her fate will change for the better. Pray to Mahadev that they agree." Ahaana, who had been silently listening, now found it hard to stay. She excused herself, citing her need to prepare for class. Once in her room, Ahaana sat on her balcony, lost in thought. She took out her phone and looked at a photo of Akshay. She had been doing this for days, closely examining his picture. She remembered their meeting and how Akshay's words and demeanor had left an impact on her. Ahaana's heart still held onto the hope that had been growing since their conversation. Despite her attempts to dismiss it, she couldn't help but feel drawn to Akshay. As she gazed at his picture, her eyes welled up with tears. Ahaana quickly wiped them away. She couldn't let herself cry. With a heavy heart, she put down her phone and tried to distract herself by reading. But her mind wandered back to Akshay. Ahaana pulled out her diary and began to write. In her room, surrounded by the silence, Ahaana poured her feelings onto the page. Her words became a poem. Unspoken feelings connected her to him; life seemed to steer her toward him. The wait was hard to bear; despite her attempts to convince herself that he wasn't meant to be hers, the hope persisted. The words, the looks, and the moments they shared lingered. Ahaana's heart beat faster as she remembered. Tears fell as she wrote. She couldn't help but feel a connection to Akshay, a bond that seemed unexplainable yet undeniable.
"Brother," Dhrishant turned around immediately at Aahana's sudden voice. Aahana was standing outside his room.
"Yes Anu, what happened?"
"Can we come in, brother?"
Aahana asked for permission to come in. Dhrishant immediately smiled and said, "Come in, my dear."
Aahana walked towards him with slow steps and stood in front of him, lowering her gaze.
"What happened, Anu? Is something bothering you? Why do you look so sad?" Dhrishant asked lovingly, noticing her lowered eyelids, the wrinkles on her forehead, and her tense face.
Aahana looked up at him with teary eyes and said softly,
"Brother, we made a mistake."
"What mistake, my dear?" Dhrishant asked lovingly, wiping her teary eyes. Aahana lowered her eyelids again and said with a choked voice,
"Brother, we are the reason for everyone's trouble. No response is coming from there because of us. We made a big mistake, after which perhaps they will never connect with us, and your wait will remain just a wait."
Dhrishant's forehead furrowed at Aahana's words. A suspicion of something going wrong began to form in his mind. Dhrishant cupped Aahana's face in his palms, brought it towards him, and said worriedly,
"Anu, what happened, my dear? Why are you talking like this? What mistake are you talking about? Tell your brother."
Aahana looked up at him with her teary eyelids and said, sobbing,
"You had forbidden us from discussing anything about dowry with the boy, but that day we clearly told them that if they take dowry, we will not marry them. We will not sow the seeds of any new relationship on the land of greed.
Perhaps because of that, no response has come from there until now, and none will come in the future. So, you all should give up hope. That relationship will not happen now."
Aahana's revelation gave Dhrishant a deep shock. At first, he stared at her in shock, then when he heard Aahana's sobbing, he composed himself and hugged Aahana tightly.
"It's alright. You did nothing wrong. Despite your words, we wouldn't have sent you away empty-handed. Still, if they back out of this relationship solely because of dowry, it's good that you spoke up in advance. Their greed has been revealed, and your life has been saved from being ruined.
We don't want to get you married to someone for whom the dowry that comes with you is more important than your qualities. We want to get you married, but not by sending you to greedy people.
Besides, there is no shortage of boys for my sister. With Shiva's grace, she has such a beautiful, innocent face, is full of every quality, and is so understanding. We will find an even better match for you and send you to a home where your qualities will be valued.
Now, stop crying. I will talk to Dad and tell him to refuse from our side. If they feel embarrassed to say no directly, we will end the conversation."
Dhrishant's last words brought a pang to her heart, and she felt something breaking inside. Perhaps the castle of incomplete feelings and emotions she had built in her dreams crumbled like a house of cards, and the shards of those incomplete emotions pricked her heart, causing pain.
How much she had tried not to let someone into her heart who couldn't be a part of her life, but she didn't even realize when he had quietly made a home in her heart. Perhaps at that moment, her heart tilted towards him when he bowed before her.
Perhaps these unexpressed feelings had already sought their existence the moment Akshay's gaze rested on her. It was a beautiful feeling, which she got to experience for a few moments. It was painful, but Aahana accepted this reality by suppressing her emotions.
The whole day passed. Waiting for their response, another day passed like a mountain, but today there were two people who had no wait.
One was Aahana, who had convinced herself that this was her destiny. The other was Dhrishant, who had turned away from this relationship after learning that they were stalling the talk because of the dowry. He was waiting to talk to Jitendra ji at the right time.
It was evening. Dhrishant had called Pallavi and sent Antara and Aahana with her for shopping. Nishant also went with them.
Lately, Aahana had been very quiet and sad, so Jayanti ji had also allowed them to go with Pallavi.
At this time, only Dhrishant, Jitendra ji, and Jayanti ji were in the house. Jayanti ji, sitting in the drawing-room, was cutting vegetables for dinner. Jitendra ji was listening to the news with Dhrishant and simultaneously thinking about how to start the conversation.
Dhrishant thought for a while, then as he turned to speak to them, Jitendra ji's phone suddenly rang. He picked up the phone on the table, and saw Abhijeet ji's name flashing on the screen.
This was the first time in many days that he had called from his side, so initially, Jitendra ji was a bit surprised, then a ray of hope lit up in his mind, and he immediately turned off the TV and received the call.
"Namaste brother-in-law, how are you? How is your health now?"
"Namaste brother-in-law. By Shiva's grace, I am perfectly fine now. Please tell me, what's happening there?"
"By Shiva's blessings, all is well. How is everyone there?" Jitendra ji replied with a calm smile and also asked the question.
"Everything is fine here as well." Only formal conversation was happening between them. Both Dhrishant and Jayanti ji were focused on them. Jitendra ji couldn't understand what to say next. He had questions in his mind but hesitated to ask, but Abhijeet ji answered his question without him asking.
"First of all, we apologize for making you wait for so many days, but we also had some compulsions."
Abhijeet ji seemed a bit embarrassed, which Jitendra ji sensed and said calmly,
"It's alright brother-in-law, we understand. Please tell us, why did you call?"
He had some idea, but still, he wanted to hear it from him. Abhijeet ji replied with a smile,
"We have called today to give you this good news that we and our family really like your daughter. We want to make Aahana the daughter-in-law of our house. We approve of this relationship, and if you have no objection, we would like you to visit us with your relatives at the earliest auspicious time and finalize this relationship by applying Akshay's Tilak.
Then we will also choose a good muhurat to do our daughter-in-law's engagement, and we were thinking of having the children's engagement along with the engagement. After that, whenever you say, we will come with the baraat to your doorstep to take our daughter-in-law."
Jitendra ji couldn't believe his ears that the relationship he feared would break, had, against all odds, been finalized. He had decided to make Aahana the daughter-in-law of his house. His daughter's relationship was fixed, and with the groom whom he considered the best for his daughter.
Hearing Abhijeet ji's words, a big worry of his had ended. The face that had shown signs of worry and stress in the past days now showed signs of peace and happiness upon hearing this good news, and this happiness was invaluable to him.
"You have blessed us by sharing this good news. Our daughter is fortunate to be getting such a good home and a suitable groom by Shiva's grace. Thank you very much for accepting our daughter. We will come for the Tilak whenever you say."
"We should be thanking you, brother-in-law, for agreeing to entrust your intelligent, virtuous, and lovely daughter to us. Our son is fortunate to be getting a life partner like Aahana, and we will also be blessed to have her as our daughter-in-law. No matter how much we thank you for this, it will not be enough."
Dhrishant now understood almost everything, so his face showed confusion. He had asked Jitendra ji to inquire about the dowry and also put the phone on speaker.
After hearing Aahana's words, he thought this relationship would not happen, but now what was happening had put him in a dilemma. He was testing his suspicion. Understanding his hint, Jitendra ji asked seriously,
"Brother-in-law, we approved of the relationship from the beginning. Akshay ji seemed a suitable groom for our daughter. Now that you have also accepted our daughter, it would be good to discuss the give and take, and accordingly, we would make future decisions."
Jitendra ji laid the groundwork and asked the main question, and the answer from the other side was very simple.
"When it comes to give and take, brother-in-law, we will come to your doorstep like beggars. You will give us your lifetime savings, your daughter. We don't want anything more than that from you... We will not take a single rupee as dowry. Just give us our daughter. That is precious to us."
Hearing Abhijeet ji's answer, Jitendra ji's heart filled with joy. Although he was surprised, he was also impressed by their thinking. Jayanti ji's happiness knew no bounds.
The worry about Aahana's future haunted her day and night, but now her relationship was going to be fixed. And that too, in a family that valued their daughter more than those lifeless notes, who were not asking for lakhs in dowry, but simply asking for their daughter with respect.
Dhrishant, separate from these two, was extremely surprised. He thought they were greedy people, which is why they were stalling the relationship due to not receiving the dowry, but here, not only did they agree to the relationship, but they also flatly refused to take even a rupee as dowry.
The meaning was clear: he had misunderstood them. They were not greedy, but good and noble people. They were interested only in Aahana, not in the dowry that came with her. Dhrishant's surprise now turned into happiness. He wanted such a family for his sister.
Everyone here was happy. Jitendra ji started talking to them about the future. Jayanti ji mentally offered prayers to Shiva. Dhrishant was thinking about Aahana, how happy she would be when she learned all this. This was the kind of companion she wished for, and Shiva had given her Akshay as the fruit of her prayers and devotion.
What will be Aahana's reaction when she finds out about this?
Akshay was sitting in his room. After hearing all the things outside, he had come here to spend some moments of solitude with his memories of Aahana.
For so many days, his heart had been throbbing with fear, but now the shadow of that fear seemed to be receding. Although no ceremony had yet taken place to make them officially related, Akshay's heart was connected to her, and that was the reason for his happiness.
It had been a long and difficult journey, but finally, this moment had arrived. After seeing Rupali's behavior in the car that day, Akshay had almost given up hope that Aahana would accept him. That's why he had been so restless. But now, peace had descended into the depths of his heart.
The feeling of being connected to the person you had been longing for was something different, something that couldn't be put into words. Akshay hadn't even had a chance to celebrate his happiness properly when Anvay and Falak burst into his room.
"Congratulations, brother! Finally, your relationship with Aahana Bhabhi has been established," they both exclaimed in unison, congratulating him with joy. Akshay smiled softly at their words.
"Well, it's not official yet, as no ceremony has taken place to make her my wife," Anvay said, lying down on the couch. Falak, sitting beside him, added, "But didn't you hear? Papa clearly said that Aahana Bhabhi is the one we like, and she will be the one to become Akshay Bhaiya's wife and the daughter-in-law of this house. And very soon, they will come, and Bhaiya's tilak ceremony will take place to finalize the relationship. Then we will go to their place for the roka ceremony, and Bhaiya's engagement with her will also take place."
The words had a profound impact on Akshay. His heart skipped a beat at the mention of Aahana. His face lit up with happiness, and a faint smile played on his lips. A gentle smile lingered on his lips, and his eyes sparkled with excitement.
Anvay and Falak saw Akshay lost in his thoughts and exchanged glances. They burst out laughing and teased him, "The brother is completely besotted with his Bhabhi."
Akshay's expression changed, and he scowled at them, "Do you both want to get beaten up by me?"
His tone was threatening, and his eyes warned them to back off. Anvay and Falak quickly shook their heads, "No, no, we won't do any more pranks, and we won't tease you by calling her Bhabhi."
They pretended to be innocent and composed themselves. Akshay glared at them for a few moments before speaking in a gruff tone, "Why did you both come here?"
"We came to congratulate you, as your relationship with Bhabhi has been established after so much trouble and obstacles," they replied in unison.
Akshay's expression softened slightly. "You have congratulated me, so now leave," he said curtly, probably wanting to spend some more time alone with his thoughts of Aahana.
However, Anvay and Falak didn't leave; instead, they sat more firmly and pouted, "Don't you think you're being too harsh with us, Bhaiya?"
"Absolutely, you're not just being strict but also unfair. We supported you so much, made so much effort in front of Mom and Dad so that your relationship with Bhabhi could happen. But now that it's done, it seems like you're just discarding us like a fly in milk."
Akshay listened to their words silently, then grew irritated and said, "Stop this drama and emotional blackmail. What do you want?"
Their faces changed instantly, and their sadness vanished. They became excited and asked, "Treat, and it has to be at a place of our choice."
"The menu should also be decided by us, and you will pay," Falak added.
"And it has to be today," Anvay chimed in.
Akshay looked at his clever siblings, who never missed an opportunity. He sighed and agreed, "Okay, we'll go tonight. Now leave my room."
Falak pouted and looked at him with big, surprised eyes, "How can we leave? We came not just to congratulate you but also to talk to you. We can't leave without talking."
"What do you two want to talk about? You're just a pair of silly siblings," Akshay asked, raising an eyebrow.
Anvay and Falak exchanged a glance, then smiled and turned to Akshay, "Bhaiya, tell the truth. Didn't Aahana Bhabhi impress you at first sight? That's why you agreed to meet her so easily."
Akshay replied nonchalantly, "When you already know the answer, why ask?"
"Because we want to hear it from you," Falak said.
Akshay's response was thoughtful, "There was nothing in her that I disliked."
"Yes, that's right. She looks so lovely that anyone's heart could fall for her," Anvay agreed and smiled, recalling Aahana.
The mention of Aahana brought a soft smile to Akshay's lips.
"Bhaiya, answer one question truthfully," Anvay said in a serious tone.
Akshay raised an eyebrow, curious, "What's the question?"
"If Mom had refused to arrange your relationship with Aahana, would you have married someone else?" Anvay asked.
Akshay's face showed confusion, "I don't know, maybe not."
"Why did you say that to Mom then? You should have told her straight that you like Aahana and want to marry her," Falak asked.
Akshay explained, "Anvay, things are not as simple as you think. Before saying, hearing, or doing anything, you have to consider many things."
"Like what?" Falak asked.
"Like I emphasized not taking dowry and made Mom angry. She agreed only because I refused to get married. If I had said I liked Aahana and wanted to marry her, Mom would have blamed Aahana for everything."
"Mom hates love marriages, so she wouldn't have accepted it. She would have treated Aahana harshly, making life difficult for her. That's why I didn't mention Aahana's name. Maybe it will make things easier for her since Mom will consider her the one I chose."
"I don't think so. Mom might still be angry, but gradually, she will be fine. Aahana will win her over with her goodness," Akshay said.
"I hope so," Anvay and Falak said.
The atmosphere became serious, and Anvay suddenly remembered something. He warned Akshay with a mysterious smile, "Bhaiya, Aahana is very sweet, but your future sister-in-law is very sharp. Be careful around her."
"What do you mean? What did Antara do that you're saying this?" Akshay looked at him curiously.
Anvay's words sparked concern in Akshay's mind.
"You'll see; Antara might have done something. I'm 200% sure it was her doing," Anvay said with a mysterious smile.
Akshay cautioned Anvay, "Anvay, she's Aahana's sister. Don't even think about doing anything wrong with her."
Anvay smiled and said, "Chill, Bhaiya. I won't do anything wrong with your sister-in-law, but I won't let this go either."
The conversation ended, and Anvay and Falak left. Akshay finally got some time to himself. He closed the door, sat on the bed, and pulled out Aahana's picture from his phone. He gazed at her, and his heart skipped a beat.
"Finally, our relationship is established. I don't know how you'll react when you hear the news, but I'm very happy today because the girl who touched my heart at first sight is now connected to me, and the fear of losing you has gone. But the longing and restlessness remain until you become my wife."
Akshay was talking to Aahana's picture as if she were sitting in front of him.
He had never looked at any girl like this before, never made a connection like this. All his feelings and emotions were only for Aahana. He was excited and happy, and his face showed it clearly.
Aahana returned home at eight o'clock in the evening. Antara, Nishant, and Pallavi were with her. As soon as the four of them stepped into the house, they burst into laughter over something, and their laughter echoed throughout the Shukla residence.
As the four entered, Jayanti ji came and embraced Aahana. She showered her with blessings and warding off evil. While pampering her, she became emotional, as if she were bidding her farewell.
Everyone's laughter had subsided, and now they were all looking at her with surprise and confusion. Aahana was bewildered by their sudden behavior. At first, she stared at them, stunned, with wide eyes, and then, when she saw tears in their eyes, she became worried.
"Mom, what happened? Why are you crying?"
Seeing Aahana concerned, Jayanti ji lovingly touched her cheek and said with a smile,
"We are not crying, dear. These are tears of joy. We are very happy today. Mahadev has given us the fruit of our devotion and prayers today. He has filled our daughter's life with happiness. We only wish that our darling happily becomes a part of her new home."
Her words went over Aahana's head. She looked at them confusedly, while the other three were also looking at her with surprise and confusion.
Hearing Jayanti ji's words, Pallavi looked at her with hesitant eyes and asked,
"Mom, tell us what happened. Why are you so happy that you are crying tears of joy, and why are you giving Anu so many blessings? We don't understand anything you are saying."
Jayanti ji, hearing her question, lovingly stroked Aahana's head and said to Pallavi with a smile,
"It's a happy occasion, dear. We were all so worried for so many days, but God's justice is always there. He has taken away all our worries and accepted our prayers. Our daughter's marriage has been fixed."
As soon as she mentioned the marriage being fixed, everyone was shocked. Antara asked in surprise,
"Marriage fixed? What does that mean, Mom? Whose marriage has been fixed and when?"
By now, Jitendra ji and Drishant had also arrived. Jitendra ji answered Antara's question,
"Daughter, Abhijit bhai sahib called a little while ago. He apologized for making us wait for so many days and also shared the good news that he likes Aahana and wants to join our family. We have discussed everything, and now we just need to find an auspicious time to go and apply the tilak to Akshay ji and finalize this relationship."
Hearing Jitendra ji's words, everyone's eyes widened in disbelief. They had given up all hope for this alliance, and now it was difficult to believe the sudden good news.
Aahana's heart began to pound loudly, and her restless gaze turned towards Drishant, as if asking him if it was true. Drishant understood the question reflected in her eyes and the turmoil in her heart.
He blinked reassuringly and said with a slight smile,
"Dad is telling the truth. He has agreed to the proposal. They have invited us to their home to finalize the relationship with a tilak ceremony, and most importantly, they have clearly refused to accept any dowry. They said that our Anu is precious and they just want to make our Aahana their daughter-in-law, and they don't want any dowry in return."
Drishant had answered all the questions in Aahana's mind. Aahana was still surprised, while everyone else was happy.
For Aahana, all of this was like a beautiful dream, and she felt as if this dream would shatter in the blink of an eye. Just as Aahana could not fully believe this reality, Nishant, with a sad face, came to her and said dejectedly,
"Didi, are you going to leave us now?"
What could Aahana say to his question when she herself hadn't yet believed this reality? Aahana looked at him silently with confused eyes, while Pallavi, seeing him get emotional, lovingly stroked his hair and smiled,
"No, silly. The engagement is just fixed. We won't let our Anu go anywhere so soon. She will stay here with all of us, and we will spend a lot of time together. We will have a lot of fun together."
She explained to Nishant, then moved forward and hugged Aahana. Her face lit up with joy, after all, her best friend was going to get such a wonderful and understanding life partner.
"Congratulations Anu. Today I am more than very, very, very happy for you."
"Didi, I can't believe that that grumpy aunt agreed to this alliance. When she left, I thought they would definitely refuse. But they said yes, and without dowry too. But I am also very happy. I already like Jij.
Antara expressed her surprise and happiness, but Aahana didn't react much, just kept looking at everyone silently.
Seeing her so quiet, Drishant came to her and lovingly stroked her head and said affectionately,
"Anu, this is what you wanted from your future husband, isn't it? That he should accept you, form a relationship with you. That the dowry he receives should be irrelevant to him. That the foundation of your relationship should not be built on the greed of dowry.
Look, Mahadev has sent you someone who, without a second thought, has rejected the dowry and chosen you... Are you happy now? Do you have any objections to this alliance? Do you like Akshay ji?
Tell us whatever is in your heart. It's just a discussion for now. If you have any objection to this alliance, if you don't like Akshay ji, or if you are not happy with this relationship, tell me without hesitation. No one will put any pressure on you. We only want your happiness."
Drishant was explaining to her with great love and affection. He was assuring her that his brother stood by her, and was asking for her consent because her silence was bothering him.
Although the alliance was very good, and the way Aahana's condition of not accepting dowry was accepted clearly showed that he was very serious about accepting Aahana, his sister's wish and happiness were still paramount to him.
Hearing Drishant's words, everyone frowned and looked at him with disturbed eyes. Instead of happiness, expressions of worry appeared on their faces. Meanwhile, tears welled up in Aahana's large eyes.
"Yes..... we are happy, brother." Only a few words came out of her choked throat, and feeling her brother's love, her throat tightened. She moved forward and hid her face in his chest. Her answer brought back the lost radiance and happiness to everyone's faces.
A contented smile spread across Drishant's lips. As he hugged Aahana, he lovingly kissed her head.
It was eleven o'clock at night, and Aahana stood on her room's balcony, wrapped in a starlit blanket, gazing intently at the lazily seated moon in the sky.
She had been trying to sleep for a long time, but sleep was miles away from her eyes. Antara had fallen asleep long ago, but Aahana's mind was occupied with what had happened today.
After the response from the groom's side, her parents had looked relieved and happy after many days. The house was filled with the colors of happiness, smiles adorned every lip, and there was a unique vibrancy, as if it were a festival.
Pallavi, along with her parents and family, had joined in this happiness, and everyone had congratulated her with many blessings.
She was also happy, and seeing everyone's happiness, her lips also smiled.
At this moment, Akshay's thoughts filled her mind. After all, he was the reason for this happiness. Aahana heard Akshay's words echoing in her ears: if they don't accept dowry, will she agree? A thought crossed her mind: did he fulfill her condition for this alliance to happen?
Did he refuse to accept dowry just because she said she wouldn't marry with dowry? There was a question, but no answer, yet remembering the way Akshay had said it, Aahana's heart filled with sweet feelings.
This was the feeling of being so special to someone that even her condition was respected to make her his own, and not everyone could do that. The meaning was clear: she was special to him, and he did not want to lose her.
This thought tickled her mind, and her shame-laden eyelids drooped, her cheeks turned rosy, and under those lowered lashes, dreams of a golden future began to form.
Akshay had already knocked on her heart, and his 'yes' had compelled Aahana to think about him.
Akshay seemed to be settling deep within her heart. She didn't know about love, but Akshay's respect and honor in her eyes had increased immensely. She had begun to respect him from the heart, and the first foundation of the relationship between them had been laid, and that was respect.
On the other hand, Akshay was also so happy today that he couldn't sleep either. He held his phone, gazing intently at Aahana's picture. This simple, innocent girl had attracted him at first sight. The arrows of her eyes, hidden beneath her lowered lashes, had struck directly at Akshay's heart.
That first feeling had deepened after that meeting, and now, it seemed that every color of life was pulling him towards Aahana.
He stared at Aahana for a while, who was still standing before him with lowered eyelids. Looking at her, Akshay suddenly remembered how she had sat there that day, withdrawn, with her eyes downcast. Even if she accidentally looked up, it was only for a moment, and then she would hide her large, kohl-lined eyes beneath the thick fringe of her lashes.
When Akshay looked up, he saw that same innocent face shining in the moon in the sky, which had been etched deep in his heart, and with that, his lips smiled involuntarily.
I have tried to show both of their emotions. Whether I succeeded or not, you will tell me.
A few days slipped by quietly. Unease was on both sides, but both had maintained silence. However, today Aahana's heart was more restless and anxious than usual.
Last night, Jitendra Ji, Drishant, Nishant, the other men of the family, and some friends had departed for the engagement/tilak ceremony.
For the past week, preparations for the tilak ceremony had been in full swing at Shukla Niwas. The situation was similar at Sehgal Niwas in Delhi.
Here in Delhi, preparations were underway for the journey. Those accompanying them had been informed in advance. Clothes and numerous gifts had been bought for everyone in the family. From a gold ring, chain, and clothes to every small and large item for Akshay's tilak, everything was purchased. Utmost care was taken to ensure nothing was lacking.
Yesterday too, a lot of sweets, fruits, and dry fruits had been bought. The family, along with relatives and friends, had left for Delhi with all the auspicious items.
The maternal uncle's house was in Delhi. They arrived there late at night and stayed the night. In the morning, they were to reach Sehgal Niwas.
Sehgal Niwas had also been bustling with activity and festivity for several days. There was a lot of work to be done. It was the engagement ceremony of the elder son of the house, so all relatives had been invited.
A tent had been set up outside the house yesterday, and the caterer had also been called. Arrangements were made for food and drinks for family members, relatives, and people from the neighborhood and acquaintances after the tilak ceremony. Preparations for the tilak were also in full swing.
Everyone was happy, although Rupali Ji was perhaps not satisfied with this alliance, but she was not compromising on anything for her son's tilak.
When the bride's family arrived, they were welcomed with great warmth. Abhijit Ji embraced Jitendra Ji with great pleasure. Drishant and Nishant greeted them respectfully with folded hands. Falak had also arrived with her in-laws and was very happy. She was overseeing arrangements for tea and refreshments for the guests.
The havan-pujan was arranged in the drawing-room. The havan kund was in the center, and carpets were spread all around. Near the havan kund, a seat was prepared for the priest and Akshay.
Anvay went to fetch the priest. After a while, he returned with the priest and greeted all the guests with folded hands before going inside.
All preparations were complete. The guests from the bride's side, who had not met the groom earlier, expressed their desire to meet him. Abhijit Ji sent Anvay to call Akshay.
Anvay entered Akshay's room without hesitation and, looking at Akshay standing in front of the dressing table, smiled and said, "Come on, brother, your in-laws have arrived, and you have been summoned to their court, meaning you've been called. Take the first step towards your wife now."
This was his first step towards Aahana. Today was his engagement, his tilak ceremony, which symbolizes the welcome of the groom into the bride's family as a son-in-law. A puja (havan) was organized at home to seek blessings from God for the new journey of the bride and groom to begin, and after these small rituals, he was going to be connected to Aahana.
Although this was just the beginning, after the tilak, Aahana would have a right over him, and he would have a right over Aahana. They would be called future life partners, destined to be bound in the sacred institution of marriage.
Thinking this, Akshay's heart filled with joy and enthusiasm, his eyes sparkled with happiness, and a captivating smile spread across his lips, which he didn't even try to hide.
He came out with Akshay and respectfully touched the feet of his future father-in-law, Jitendra Ji, and the elders present with him. Drishant also bent down to touch his feet, but he stopped him and embraced him.
Aahana was younger than him, but Akshay was of the same age. Although he was elder in relation, he embraced Akshay. Meanwhile, Nishant tried to touch Akshay's feet, but Akshay casually stopped him and lovingly ran his hand through his hair, as if he were Anvay and not Nishant.
They were quite impressed by his simple and gentle nature. After the introductions, the havan began. The auspicious items brought earlier were purified by sprinkling Ganga water, and then the tilak ceremony commenced. Showing respect and acceptance of the relationship, Drishant, Nishant, other cousin brothers, and other male family members applied the tilak. All the auspicious items were given to him.
When finally the bundle of notes, along with the ring and chain, were offered to him, Akshay's brow furrowed, and his expression changed. Until now, he had been silently completing every ritual, but now he broke his silence and, with a calm demeanor, respectfully stated his views.
"Father-in-law, Shagun is done with 11, 21, 51, or 101. At most, 501. Please complete the Shagun ritual with love. I only want your love and blessings, before which these gold and silver items and paper notes hold no importance. And if you must give, give this money to your daughter, not to me; it will be useful for her future, because this belongs to your daughter, not me."
Drishant, who had offered everything, showed signs of stress, and his worried eyes turned towards Jitendra Ji.
"Son, this is a ritual. Keep it as our blessings."
"I have accepted every gift you gave me with bowed head, considering it your blessings, but please forgive me, I cannot accept this. We clearly told you beforehand that we only want your daughter, not dowry. I cannot accept these. Please do not embarrass me and take these items back."
"Son, it is not right to return the offered Shagun. We have made these things for our future son-in-law with a big heart."
"Then I accept both these items, but please deposit this money in Aahana's name on my behalf; I will not take it."
Despite everyone's persuasion, Akshay did not agree, and if he had agreed, it would have been going back on his word. In the end, Jitendra Ji had to agree to his demand. He kept the chain and ring, and returned the money to be fixed for Aahana's future.
Jitendra Ji and Abhijit Ji's chests swelled with pride at Akshay's decision. Abhijit Ji felt proud of his son. Jitendra Ji was overjoyed, realizing what a capable, talented, and sensible son-in-law he had found, who was already thinking so much about his daughter.
The guests looked at Akshay with some surprise. Perhaps they had seen such a groom for the first time, but Akshay's step increased his respect in everyone's eyes. Abhijit Ji's upbringing and values, along with Jitendra Ji's choice, were highly praised. Meanwhile, Rupali Ji, seeing the wealth leaving, simmered with resentment.
After the tilak ceremony was completed, the food and drinks program began.
It was afternoon, and Akshay was among all the guests. Someone or the other kept coming to talk to him. After the food and drinks for the home family, guests, and the bride's side, the food for the rest began.
The guests departed in the afternoon, and only then did Akshay get some respite, and he went to his room to change. Those who had come from Kanpur left directly for Kanpur. The tilak ceremony had been completed successfully, and the relationship was now fixed, so everyone was relieved.
Before leaving, they had also got the engagement date fixed by the priest, which was about a month away, and Aahana's engagement was also to be held on the same day. The groom's side bid farewell to the bride's family with many gifts and sweets, with the promise that they would visit soon and formally engage Aahana for their son, thereby solidifying the relationship from their side as well.
Jitendra Ji reached home with his two sons around nine in the night after dropping everyone home, where everyone was eagerly waiting for their arrival. As soon as they arrived, Aahana brought water for everyone, after which everyone went to freshen up.
There were many questions, many things to discuss, much to say and hear, but they had returned tired, so no one asked any questions. After a while, they all had dinner together, and then sat together. They were telling everything about the place. Nishant had even brought a video of the entire function, which he was showing everyone.
Sitting next to Antara, Aahana was quietly listening to everyone. While narrating everything, Drishant paused at one point.
"Mom, you know they did the Shagun with 501 rupees, refusing to take all the other money, saying that money belongs to Aahana, so it should be deposited in her name."
Aahana's happiness was evident on Drishant's face. There was a sense of satisfaction that they had chosen the right life partner for their sister. Agreeing with his statement, Jitendra Ji smiled proudly and said, "Today we feel proud. We have chosen a gem for our daughter."
Nishant showed them the video of that moment. Every word spoken by Akshay penetrated the depths of Aahana's heart, and her respect for him increased even more in her eyes. She gazed silently at Akshay, who had refused so much money in front of everyone without a crease on his forehead.
Jayanti Ji was also happy hearing their conversation and started thanking Mahadev for choosing such a capable and sensible companion for her daughter. Antara, who already liked Akshay, was even more impressed by him. Meanwhile, Aahana sat quietly, listening to everyone, thinking about Akshay.
"Sister, look, how good-looking and handsome brother-in-law is in this photo."
Antara smiled and showed the phone screen to Aahana, praising Akshay. At this moment, both were sitting on the bed in their room. Antara was looking at the pictures sent by Pallavi.
Aahana, who had not even watched the video of the tilak ceremony due to shyness and hesitation, her attention was inadvertently drawn to the picture shining on the screen. Akshay was sitting on the raised platform, wearing a beautiful cherry-colored kurta and white churidar.
The sleeves of the kurta were folded up to his elbows, revealing his strong muscles. The kurta looked great on his well-built, fair body. His hair was neatly set and covered with a white handkerchief tied around his head.
The tilak applied on his forehead testified to their relationship, which had been firmly sealed today. He was holding the auspicious items in his hand, looking ahead, with a captivating smile gracing his lips.
He was already good-looking and handsome, but his charm in kurta-pajama was something else, he looked extremely attractive, and his captivating smile was devastating.
Aahana's gaze lingered on his face, and her heartbeats became erratic, as if he were sitting in front of her, looking only at her. The next moment, a blush of shyness spread across her face, and her eyelids seemed to bow in reverence.
"Sister, honestly, I don't like your future mother-in-law even a bit. She's a very rude and arrogant woman, but I really liked brother-in-law. He looks so handsome, so sweet, he speaks so respectfully, and how he refused dowry for you, whereas here the groom and the groom's family walk out of the wedding mandap for a slightest compromise on dowry. I have become a fan of brother-in-law. Last time I couldn't meet him properly, but at the engagement, when he comes, I will get to know him well."
Unaware of her innermost feelings, Antara continued to speak to herself, while Aahana, under the veil of her lowered eyelids, was decorating her dreams of the future with envy for her own fate, knowing she was going to have such a life partner.
As I watched, a month had passed. The month of August had begun. Over the past few days, preparations had started up again in both households.
A few days ago, Rupali Ji had called. She had also spoken with Aahana and taken her finger measurements for the engagement ring. Her tone seemed somewhat stern, but her behavior was acceptable.
On one hand, preparations for Aahana's roka and engagement in Kanpur were in full swing. On the other hand, preparations were also underway at Shukla Niwas. The event was to be small, with just family and relatives, and neighbors were invited for food.
The day was auspicious; the more blessings they received, the more happiness grew, and the more joy they shared, the more it seemed to multiply. The plan was for a grand engagement, but the boy's side had suggested a smaller ceremony, which Jitendra Ji had accepted.
Rupali Ji had made all the arrangements according to her status. Today was the engagement day, and the muhurat was in the evening. Her family, close relatives, and friends had left early in the morning for Kanpur in a mini bus and a car, carrying all the essentials for the ceremony.
Akshay's heart was beating differently today. He was to meet Aahana for the second time and was officially going to be connected to her. After the engagement, Aahana would be bound to him, and perhaps their conversations would also begin.
He had waited for this day for a month, eagerly anticipating it. Only he knew how restless he was to meet and talk to her. Nights passed while gazing at her pictures, replaying their last meeting in his mind multiple times.
The memory of their meeting was etched in his mind like it was yesterday. In public, he remained composed and aloof, but his emotions surfaced in solitude. His anxiety and restlessness were evident, and he often replayed their interactions.
He rarely got time to himself. School, home, and engagement preparations kept him busy, but at night, when Antara slept, he would glance at Aahana's pictures, her voice from Tilak's videos, and relive their conversations.
His presence made Aahana's cheeks blush, her heart skip a beat, and her body shrink within herself. The way he looked at her made her feel shy, or perhaps it was the effect of her feelings for him.
Despite her bold nature, confident demeanor, and lack of hesitation in expressing herself, Aahana felt peculiar around Akshay. She avoided meeting his gaze and felt anxious, her heart racing and her body shrinking.
The difference between them was that Akshay was desperate to meet her again, while Aahana felt a mix of emotions about meeting him.
At Shukla Niwas, the atmosphere was lively. Relatives had gathered, and Jitendra Ji was overseeing the arrangements for guests, food, and seating.
Pallavi's father and brother were also involved, along with their relatives. Pallavi and her sister-in-law helped with Jayanthi Ji's tasks. Antara was with Aahana.
After applying mehndi to Aahana's hands, Antara joined her on the rooftop to enjoy the pleasant weather and observe the activity at home. Later, she returned to Aahana and helped her get ready.
The time between noon and evening saw a surge in activity. The sound of voices outside indicated the arrival of the boy's family. Everyone below was busy welcoming them.
The seating arrangement was made in the courtyard. The dining table was cleared, and the drawing room was emptied. A sofa was placed at the stairs, with chairs in front.
The atmosphere was cool, with fans and coolers operating. Guests were warmly welcomed, and refreshments were served.
Pallavi and her sister-in-law oversaw the arrangements, while Aahana's cousins engaged with Akshay. He felt slightly nervous around so many girls, but his friend Anway supported him.
Akshay's eyes wandered, searching for Aahana, but she was nowhere to be seen. Downstairs, everyone was engaged in conversations and laughter.
Antara was busy getting Aahana ready. As she finished, she stood back to admire Aahana, smiling.
"You don't look good?" Aahana asked.
Antara teased her, saying she would captivate Akshay's attention. Aahana blushed, her cheeks turning pink.
As they finished getting ready, Antara and Aahana headed downstairs. At the bottom, they met Jayanthi Ji, who expressed her disappointment that Antara was late.
Antara explained that she was busy getting Aahana ready. Akshay spotted Antara and smiled.
"What are you all doing here?" he asked.
Antara playfully scolded the girls around Akshay, and they left.
As Antara approached Akshay, Unway stood up, observing her.
"Hi, Jiju," Antara said.
Akshay smiled and replied, "Hello."
The conversation flowed, and Antara playfully teased Akshay.
Anway interrupted, suggesting they should meet Aahana. Antara was displeased.
"You can't rush things," Antara said.
Anway persisted and called out to Jayanthi Ji.
Jayanthi Ji arrived, and Anway requested to see Aahana and tour the house. Antara was furious.
Jayanthi Ji granted permission, and Antara reluctantly agreed.
"I'm busy getting ready," Antara protested.
Jayanthi Ji insisted, and Antara reluctantly agreed to show Anway around.
The scene unfolded, filled with tension and playful banter.
