Author pov...

Deeksha kept firing questions, one after another, but Ishani suddenly turned and ran from there, disappearing into the room as if she couldn't bear another second.

Abhay, standing a little distance away, noticed her fleeing figure, his eyes narrowing with quiet concern.

"Bhaiya, come... I'll introduce you to Divya didi and Vaibhav bhaiya," Deeksha said, gently tugging at Abhay's sleeve.

"Hm... let's go," he replied softly.

They walked toward the stage together.

The moment Divya's eyes fell on Abhay, she froze in shock, her smile fading as if someone had erased it.

Abhay, however, only offered a polite smile."Congratulations, Divya... Vaibhav," he said warmly.

Vaibhav looked at him, confused, unable to recognize who he was.

Sensing this, Deeksha quickly spoke, "Vaibhav bhaiya, this is Abhay bhaiya."

Realization struck Vaibhav's face. He remembered now and along with it came a flicker of discomfort. He never liked the Thakur family... except for

Deeksha. Still, for the sake of the occasion, he forced a courteous smile.

"Thank you," Vaibhav said.

Abhay's gaze shifted to Divya, his smile softening with something unspoken. "So... you forgot me, Divya?"

Divya's eyes hardened instantly. "People forget only those who are important. You were never important to me."

The words landed like a slap. Vaibhav frowned slightly. "Divya, what are you saying? He's a guest."

But Divya had already turned away, anger blazing in her eyes as she walked off, clearly searching for Ishani.

Deeksha looked at Abhay apologetically. "Bhaiya, maybe Divya didi was upset about something... please don't mind what she said."

Abhay shook his head faintly. "No... I didn't mind."

Vaibhav stepped forward politely. "Thank you for coming. Please have dinner before you leave."

Abhay nodded silently and walked away from there, his calm expression hiding the storm within.

A few moments later, Deeksha hurried after him. "Bhaiya... are you okay?"

"Hm. I'm fine," he replied, though his voice felt distant.

Just then, Rahul called out to Deeksha from across the hall.

She turned back to Abhay. "Bhaiya, you eat something. I'll be right back."

Abhay gave a small nod. Deeksha left, and he stood there alone.

Abhay stood there for a few moments, feeling like a stranger in the crowd, then slowly walked toward the room where Ishani had gone.

The door was slightly ajar.

Inside, Divya was already there, pacing restlessly, anger written all over her face.

"How dare he?" Divya burst out. "How could he ghost you like that and then suddenly show up here, smiling as if nothing happened?"

Ishani said nothing. She just stood there, silently absorbing every word, her eyes lowered.

"Wait here," Divya snapped. "I'll go right now and throw him out. He can't just walk into my wedding like this."

"Divya..." Ishani finally spoke, her voice soft but steady. "He's Deeksha's brother. You can't throw him out like that. Now that he's here... let it be."

"But-" Divya tried to argue.

"No," Ishani interrupted gently. "It's your wedding. Focus on that. Don't waste your energy on all this."

Divya fell silent, though the anger still simmered in her eyes.

Outside the door, Abhay stood frozen, having heard every single word. Each sentence felt heavier than the last.

"Okay... I'm going," Divya said after a moment. "Vaibhav must be looking for me."

Ishani nodded faintly. "Hm."

As Divya opened the door, Abhay quickly stepped aside, hiding from sight.

She walked past without noticing him and left.

Only then did he gather the courage to enter the room.

Ishani looked up and the moment she saw him, her expression hardened.

"What are you doing here?" she said coldly. "Go away."

"Ishani... I'm sorry," Abhay said, his voice low, almost breaking. "I know I hurt you. I was confused. Whenever I called, you were always busy... always caught up in something. I thought you were ignoring me. So I stopped answering your calls too... I thought maybe then you'd realize my value."

Ishani's fingers clenched tightly at her sides, but she remained silent.

"Then... I met with an accident," he continued quietly.

Her breath hitched. The word alone seemed to stop her heart.

"Hm," he nodded faintly. "I had an accident. I didn't tell anyone at home because I didn't want them to worry. And I lost my phone too... I couldn't even call you. I was in a coma, Ishani."

Her eyes widened in shock, all the anger dissolving into fear.

"For two months... I couldn't even walk on my own," he said, his voice trembling now. "I'm really sorry. I troubled you so much, didn't I? Please... forgive me."

When Ishani said nothing, Abhay took a hesitant step closer, his eyes filled with desperation.

"Please, Ishani... forgive me," he whispered. "I love you so much. This past year made me realize that I can't live without you."

Ishani's heart pounded wildly, but fear crossed her face. She glanced toward the door. "Go from here... someone might hear all this. What will they think?"

Abhay swallowed and nodded faintly. "Okay... I'll go. But please, meet me alone once. I'll fix everything. I want to marry you, Ishani... I really do."

She just stood there, stunned, unable to process what was happening. It all felt unreal like a dream she was too afraid to believe in.

"Go from here, Abhay," she said finally, her voice barely steady.

He listened, then asked softly, like a child seeking reassurance, "We'll meet... right? Please?"

Ishani hesitated, then gave a small nod. "Hm. Now go."

A slow smile spread across his face, relief washing over him.

"Th-thank you, Ishani," he said, almost breathless with happiness, before turning and leaving.

The moment he was gone, the strength she had been holding onto shattered. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she sank onto the bed.

"I have loved only you, Abhay..." she cried softly into the empty room. "But what if... tomorrow you leave me again? What if you abandon me like before?"

Her sobs echoed quietly against the walls, carrying the weight of a love that was still alive and a fear that it might break her all over again.

Rahul hadn't seen Ishani for a long time, and a quiet worry began to creep into his chest.

He searched through the corridors, scanning every corner, until a faint sound reached his ears someone crying.

His steps quickened.

He followed the sound and found Ishani sitting alone, tears streaming down her face, her shoulders trembling with silent sobs.

"Ishani... what happened? Why are you crying?" Rahul asked, rushing to her side, his voice filled with concern.

Startled, she looked up at him. For a split second, her pain was naked and visible then she quickly wiped her tears, forcing herself to compose.

"Nothing... it's nothing," she said, trying to sound normal. "I just hurt my knee a little. It started hurting, so I cried."

Rahul studied her face, unconvinced but gentle. "Are you okay now?"

"Hm... I'm fine now," she replied softly.

He gave a small, reassuring smile. "Good. You can walk, right?"

"Yes, I can walk," she said, nodding.

"Come on then," Rahul said kindly. "Malini aunty has been looking for you for a long time."

Ishani nodded again. She carefully adjusted her lehenga, smoothing its folds as if trying to gather herself together along with it.

"Let's go," she said quietly.

And with that, she stood beside him, hiding her broken heart behind a calm face, walking back toward the noise and lights as if nothing inside her had just fallen apart.

Abhay spent the entire evening watching Ishani from across the hall, his gaze fixed on her.

Ishani, however, never once looked in his direction.

She kept herself busy, smiling, talking to everyone else, as though she could feel his eyes on her and was determined to ignore them.

When the function finally ended, everyone returned to their homes.

Ishani retreated to her room, the silence wrapping around her like a heavy blanket. Just then, her phone rang. It was Divya.

"Are you okay?" Divya asked softly.

"I'm fine," Ishani replied, forcing calm into her voice.

"Don't worry about me," she added quickly. "Tomorrow is your wedding with Vaibhav bhaiya. It's the biggest day of your life. Just be happy."

Divya hesitated, then said a quiet

"Okay," before ending the call.

A moment later, Vaibhav called Divya.

"Who were you talking to so late at night?" he asked, suspicion laced with curiosity.

"My boyfriend," Divya replied playfully.

"Boyfriend? Which boyfriend? I'm your boyfriend," Vaibhav shot back immediately.

Divya burst into laughter at the obvious jealousy in his voice and decided to tease him further. "Why should I tell you? My other boyfriend is very handsome... and not boring like you."

"I'm not boring," Vaibhav protested. "I'm just a little reserved."

"Oh really?" she said mischievously. "My other boyfriend even fulfills my physical needs."

Vaibhav's tone changed at once, irritation slipping through. "Divya, that's too much. Don't joke like that with me."

Hearing the seriousness in his voice,

Divya quickly laughed it off. "Arre, I was just kidding. Why are you taking it so seriously?"

"I don't like it," he said quietly. "Not when you say things like that about another guy... to me."

"Okay, chill," she replied gently. "I won't say it again."

There was a small pause before Divya spoke, her voice softening. "From tomorrow, you'll be my husband."

Vaibhav couldn't hide the smile that spread across his face. "Hmm," he murmured, happiness slipping into his tone.

"You know," she continued, her

shyness turning into playful boldness, "I bought a very sexy nightdress for our wedding night."

Vaibhav flushed instantly, words failing him. "Hmm..."

"Say something," Divya teased. "Or will you stay this quiet on our wedding night too?"

"That... we'll find out," he replied, a hint of mischief finally appearing in his voice. "We'll see who stays quiet then."

For a moment, Divya felt a flutter of nervousness. "Oh really? We'll see who gets scared."

Vaibhav laughed softly. "Don't be scared later, Divya."

"I won't be," she said, though her heart was already racing.

They kept talking until their voices softened, their sentences trailing into sleepy murmurs, and somewhere between laughter and long pauses, both of them drifted off to sleep with the phone still in their hands.

The next day, exhaustion weighed heavily on Divya.

She slept past noon, curled up under her blanket, unwilling to leave the comfort of her dreams.

Rani entered the room, pulling the curtains aside.

"Wake up, Divya. It's your wedding today. There's so much to do," she said, half-stern, half-affectionate.

Divya groaned, blindly grabbing another pillow and pressing it over her head to block out the light and reality.

"Divya, are you listening? It's your wedding," Rani insisted.

"Mmm... then have it tomorrow," Divya mumbled drowsily. "Let me sleep today."

Rani froze, staring at her in disbelief. "Oh really? Fine then sleep properly. We'll postpone the wedding to tomorrow."

"Hmmm..." Divya hummed, already halfway back into sleep.

Just then, Devnath walked in, amused by the scene. "Don't scold her today, Rani. It's her last day in this house."

Rani sighed but couldn't hide the tenderness in her voice. "Where is she going anyway? She'll be living right next door. She can come here and sleep whenever she wants."

Devnath chuckled softly. "Alright, you go. I'll wake her up."

Rani gave one last fond look at her still-sleeping daughter and quietly left the room, while Devnath stepped closer to the bed, smiling at the innocence of the moment knowing how much was about to change by the end of the day.

Devnath stood at the doorway for a long time before stepping inside. His eyes moved slowly across the room the walls still decorated with her childhood photos, the study table where she had cried over exams, the cupboard he had assembled himself because she wanted a "big-girl room."

Every corner whispered her name.

He sat beside her and gently placed his hand on her head.

"Divya..." His voice broke before he could say anything more.

She stirred, frowning slightly, then opened her eyes. "Papa...?" she whispered, confused by the tears she saw in his.

He tried to smile, but it trembled. "You used to sleep like this when you were small too... clutching the blanket like the world might take it away."

She slowly pushed herself up, her heart tightening. "Why are you crying?"

"I'm not," he said quickly, wiping his face, failing to hide it. "Just... thinking. Yesterday you were learning to walk while holding my finger... and today..." His voice faded, unable to finish.

Something inside Divya cracked. She moved closer and held his hand in both of hers.

"I'm not leaving you, Papa," she said, her voice shaking now. "I'm just going to another house... I'll come back every day if you want. I promise."

He shook his head gently. "No, beta. A daughter doesn't belong to one house forever... that's the truth fathers spend their whole lives pretending not to know."

"You know," he said quietly, a faint smile appearing through the emotion, "when you were little... you used to follow me everywhere. Even to the bathroom door. If I disappeared for two minutes, you would cry as if I had left forever."

Divya sniffed and let out a small laugh, wiping her cheeks. "I was not that dramatic."

"Oh, you were," he chuckled softly.

"And every night you would refuse to sleep unless I told you the same story the one about the stubborn princess who never listened."

She covered her face, laughing now. "Papa, please... don't expose me on my wedding day."

"And on your first day of school," he continued, enjoying the way her laughter replaced tears, "you held my shirt so tightly that the teacher had to peel your fingers off one by one. You said, 'Papa, you also come to school, otherwise I won't go.'"

Divya burst into full laughter, the sound bright and alive, washing away the heaviness in the room. "Okay, okay, bas! I was a kid."

He watched her laugh, his eyes soft with relief as if that sound alone made everything easier.

Devnath closed his eyes, holding her as if he could stop time with the strength of his arms.

"When you were born," he whispered into her hair, "I was scared I wouldn't know how to raise a daughter... and today I'm scared of how to live in a house without you."

"Don't worry so much," she said gently. "If you say, I'll stay here even after marriage... I'll bring Vaibhav with me and live right here. Problem solved."

Devnath laughed a real laugh this time, warm and full. "Poor boy, he doesn't know what he's signing up for."

Devnath gently wiped the last trace of tears from Divya's cheeks, his thumb lingering there as if he still saw the little girl who used to cry over broken toys and unfinished homework.

"Come here," he said softly, lowering his voice as though he were about to reveal something forbidden.

Divya looked at him curiously and leaned closer. "What happened?"

He glanced toward the door dramatically, then bent toward her ear. "Should I tell you a secret?"

Her eyes widened, instantly intrigued. "What secret?"

"You must not tell Rahul," he whispered, his voice full of playful seriousness. "I love you more than him."

For a second she just stared at him and then burst into laughter, the kind that came straight from the heart.

"I already know that," she said proudly, wiping her eyes again. "My papa loves me the most in the whole world."

Devnath smiled, his expression softening into pure affection.

He leaned forward and kissed her forehead slowly, holding it there for a moment longer than usual as if sealing a blessing, a prayer, and a lifetime of love in that one touch.

"Alright," he said gently, pulling back. "Now go get ready. It's almost time for the wedding."

Divya nodded, her heart suddenly full and heavy at the same time. "Hmm."

She stood up, but before walking away, she turned back and looked at him memorizing the way he stood there, smiling for her even when his eyes were still moist.



The guest house looked like something out of a royal celebration strings of golden fairy lights cascading from the ceiling, fresh marigold and rose garlands framing every doorway, the air thick with perfume, incense, and excitement.

Guests moved around in shimmering silks and embroidered suits, their laughter blending with the distant sound of dhol.

Inside the bridal room, Divya sat like a living doll before the mirror as the makeup artist gave the final touches.

She wore a deep crimson lehenga heavy with intricate gold zari work, the skirt spreading around her like a pool of molten rubies.

Her blouse was delicately embroidered, hugging her frame, and the sheer dupatta edged with tiny pearls rested over her head like a soft veil of firelight.

Layers of jewelry completed her transformation a choker studded with emeralds and uncut diamonds, a long necklace resting against her chest, matching jhumkas brushing her neck, a maang tikka glowing at the center of her forehead, and delicate kaleeras swaying from her wrists with every small movement.

Her hands and arms were covered in dark mehendi, the designs winding all the way to her elbows, her name hidden somewhere within Vaibhav's initials.

When she finally stood, even her cousins fell silent for a second.

Slowly, she walked to the window and parted the curtain just enough to see outside.

The baraat had arrived in a burst of sound and color.

Men in cream and gold sherwanis danced wildly, children ran around with sparklers, and the dhol beats shook the ground itself.

At the center of it all, the groom's car stopped.

Divya's heart skipped.

The door opened, and Vaibhav stepped out.

He wore an ivory sherwani embroidered with antique gold thread, paired with a deep maroon stole draped over one shoulder.

A pearl mala rested across his chest, and a matching safa adorned his head, a single kalgi glinting under the lights.

For a second, he looked almost unreal regal, composed, breathtaking.

Divya's eyes softened instantly. She lifted her hand and quietly circled it in the air, taking his nazar off from afar."My groom... no evil eye should touch you," she whispered.

At the entrance, Rani stood waiting with the welcoming thali. As Vaibhav approached for the dwarchar ritual, she suddenly lunged forward to grab his nose playfully.

Before she could, Ishani called out from behind, laughing, "Bhaiya, don't let her catch it!"

Vaibhav tried to dodge, smiling helplessly, but when Rani kept trying and failing, he finally bent down on his own, offering his nose to her with a playful grin.

Everyone burst into laughter.

"Look at him!" someone shouted. "Already joru ka gulaam!"

Vaibhav just smiled, eyes shining, as if he didn't mind at all.

Soon, the stage for the jaimala was ready decorated with white orchids, roses, and soft golden drapes glowing under chandeliers.

Divya was brought in.

Her anklets chimed softly with every step, her lehenga shimmering like a moving flame.

She kept her gaze lowered, but the moment she stood before Vaibhav, her eyes lifted and the world seemed to pause.

As she picked up the garland of fresh roses and tuberoses, Rahul and her cousins suddenly lifted.

Cheers and whistles echoed across the hall.

Deepak immediately signaled the boys from the groom's side, and they lifted Vaibhav too.

Amid laughter, teasing, and playful chaos, he leaned forward and finally placed the garland around her neck.

Applause thundered.

Now it was her turn to put garland but before anyone could lift her once more, Vaibhav gently lowered his head toward her, making it easy.

"Aree, don't go this crazy in love!" people teased. "Control yourself, Vaibhav!"

He laughed softly, eyes fixed only on her, as Divya slipped the garland over him.

Flower petals rained down from above.

After the laughter of the varmala settled, the stage turned into a storm of camera flashes."Bride and groom, look here... one more... smile please!"

Divya and Vaibhav stood side by side beneath the glowing lights, still adjusting to the closeness, still stealing shy glances at each other between poses.

One by one, relatives climbed onto the stage cousins squeezing in from both sides, aunties adjusting their dupattas, uncles giving loud instructions as if they were directing a film.

Rahul pulled faces behind the photographer just to make Divya laugh. Deepak slung an arm around Vaibhav's shoulder. Deeksha leaned close to Divya, whispering something that made her blush instantly.

Every click captured a different emotion laughter, nervousness, happiness, disbelief.

By the time the photo session ended,

Divya's cheeks hurt from smiling.

The moment the crowd thinned, she leaned slightly toward Ishani and whispered like a tired child, "I'm hungry."

Ishani smiled knowingly. "Hmm... come on. Let's eat."

She quietly guided both Divya and

Vaibhav away from the stage toward the food corner, where the aroma of fresh dishes floated in the air buttery naan, fragrant pulao, sizzling starters, and sweet jalebis curling in hot syrup.

Divya didn't wait for formality.

The second a plate was placed in her hands, she began eating quickly, almost desperately, like someone who had been running on emotions alone all day.

Vaibhav watched her, amused, a soft laugh escaping him.

"Divya... eat slowly. The food isn't going anywhere."

She nodded while chewing, barely slowing down. "Hmm... I was starving. I haven't eaten anything since morning."

He looked surprised. "Then you should have eaten something earlier."

"I was busy," she replied simply, taking another bite.

He shook his head, smiling gently. "Still... eat slowly."

There was something strangely comforting in that moment the bride in heavy jewelry eating like her usual self, the groom watching her with quiet fondness, as if this ordinary moment meant more than all the grand rituals.

Soon, it was time.

The muhurat had arrived.

They were called to the mandap, glowing under sacred firelight, decorated with flowers and sacred threads.

Sitting side by side before the havan kund, they listened as the priest chanted mantras, the air filling with the scent of ghee and incense.

"Call the bride's parents for kanyadaan," the priest announced.

The priest spoke gently, explaining, "Kanyadaan is not giving away a daughter as a burden... it is entrusting your most precious blessing to someone who promises to honor and protect her forever."

Devnath looked at Vaibhav, his voice heavy with emotion.

"Take care of her," he said quietly. "She is stubborn... sensitive... and the heart of our home."

Rani placed Divya's hand into Vaibhav's, her tears falling freely now. "She still sleeps with the light on when she's scared," she whispered, half crying, half smiling.

Divya's eyes filled instantly. "Maa..."

The priest guided them, pouring sacred water over their joined hands.

"From today," he declared, "her happiness is your responsibility, and her sorrow will be yours to share."

Devnath slowly released her hand, as if letting go of something that had been part of him his entire life.

Then came the saat phere.

The priest signaled them to stand.

"Each round around this sacred fire is a vow," he said. "Not just for today, but for every day of your lives."

First Phera..

Pandit ji said "Promise to nourish and support each other."

Vaibhav spoke softly, "I will always stand beside you."

Divya replied, her voice trembling, "And I will walk with you... no matter where life takes us."

Second Phera...

Pandit ji said "Promise strength and courage in every situation."

"I will protect you," Vaibhav said.

"I will trust you," she answered.

Third Phera..

Pandit ji said "Promise prosperity and shared

responsibilities."

"We will build our home together," he said.

"And fill it with love," she replied.

Fourth Phera...

Pandit ji said "Promise respect and understanding."

"I will honor you," he vowed.

"And I will respect you," she said, meeting his eyes.

Fifth Phera...

Pandit ji said "Promise care for future family and happiness."

He smiled softly. "You will never face anything alone."

She smiled back through tears. "Neither will you."

Sixth Phera...

Pandit ji said"Promise lifelong companionship."

"I will be your friend first," Vaibhav said.

"And your partner forever," Divya replied.

Seventh Phera..

Pandit ji said "Promise eternal love and loyalty."

Vaibhav's voice was barely above a whisper. "In every lifetime... I choose you."

Divya's tears fell freely now. "And in every lifetime... I will find you."

As they completed the final round, the priest nodded with satisfaction.

"From this moment, you are bound in a sacred union of seven lifetimes."

They sat again. Vaibhav lifted the sindoor with reverence and filled the parting of her hair.

A collective gasp rose from the crowd as Divya closed her eyes, feeling the weight of the moment settle into her soul.

Then he tied the mangalsutra around her neck.

The priest raised his hand in blessing.

"The marriage is now complete."

Flower petals rained down, drums sounded, and somewhere in the crowd, Devnath wiped his tears because his daughter was no longer just his little girl.

She was now someone's forever.

Deeksha and Rahul quietly sneaked away and secretly stole Vaibhav’s shoes.

After some time, when Vaibhav went to look for them, he couldn’t find them anywhere.

He immediately understood that his shoes had been stolen.

Deepak said, “Oh no, yaar! Didn’t anyone see when shoes got stolen?”

Ishani smiled and said, “Looks like the shoes got stolen.”

Vaibhav looked at everyone and asked calmly, “So… how much money do you want?”

Rahul walked forward confidently and said, “Fifty thousand rupees.”

Ishani stared at him in shock. “Rahul! That’s too much—”

Rahul looked at Ishani and realized maybe he should lower it, but before he could speak, Deeksha said firmly, “Yes, fifty thousand. Not even one rupee less.”

Vaibhav looked around at everyone.

Devnath smiled and said, “Rahul, ask for a little less. That’s a lot of money.”

Rahul laughed and said, “Okay, give whatever you want… just keep this witchy sister of mine with you forever.”

Everyone burst into laughter.

Divya immediately said, “Shut up. The moment I leave, you’ll be the one crying first.”

Rahul replied stubbornly, “No, I won’t cry.”

Vaibhav then took out fifty thousand rupees and handed it over. Everyone was shocked, even Divya.

“You didn’t have to give that much,” she said.

Vaibhav smiled and replied, “He’s my brother-in-law now. I had to.”

Deepak laughed. “That’s right, bhaiya!”

Deeksha quickly said to Rahul, “Give me my share too.”

Rahul nodded proudly.

Vaibhav then said, “Now will you bring my shoes?”

Rahul pointed toward the sofa.

Vaibhav reached under it and pulled out his shoes from there.

Everyone started laughing loudly. “Look! The shoes were right there the whole time! And fifty thousand is gone for nothing!”

Vaibhav laughed helplessly, while Divya shook her head, smiling the playful chaos making the moment even more memorable.

Divya stood near the entrance, her eyes swollen but dry.

She had promised herself she wouldn’t cry. She would leave smiling, strong.But then she looked at them.

Devnath stood there trying to be brave, his lips pressed tightly together, his eyes red and trembling.

Rani was already crying openly, clutching the edge of her saree as if it could hold her daughter back.

Dadi wiped her tears again and again, whispering prayers under her breath.

And Rahul… he stood slightly behind everyone, his jaw clenched, eyes fixed on the ground, refusing to look at her.

Something inside Divya broke.

Her vision blurred instantly as tears spilled over.

She hugged Dadi first, crying into her shoulder like a child. Then Rani, who held her so tightly as if she never wanted to let go.

When she reached Devnath, he pulled her into his arms, his composure finally shattering.

Divya sobbed against him, holding on for a few extra seconds, memorizing the warmth of home.

Finally, she turned toward Rahul.

He still wouldn’t look at her.

She stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him, resting her head on his chest.

For a moment, he stood stiff, hands hanging at his sides, fighting the storm inside him.

He didn’t hug her back.

Divya didn’t complain. She just held him tighter.

“I’ll come back soon,” she whispered through tears.

Rahul swallowed hard but said nothing, his eyes burning as he forced himself not to cry.

Relatives gently led Divya toward the car.

She kept turning back, crying openly now, her heart refusing to move forward even as her feet did.

She sat inside the car, tears flowing nonstop.

Vaibhav sat beside her, watching quietly before speaking in a soft voice.“Divya… our house is right next door. You can come anytime you want.”

But her tears wouldn’t stop.

Outside, Rahul stepped forward and placed his hands on the back of the car, pushing it slowly as part of the ritual. His face was blank, eyes dry still holding everything inside.

The car moved forward… past the gate… past the lights… past the place that had been her world.

And the moment it disappeared from sight.

Rahul broke.

He covered his face and cried uncontrollably, the sobs tearing out of him as if he had been holding them in for years.

Dadi, Rani, and Deeksha rushed to him, trying to calm him, holding his shoulders, wiping his tears.

“Bas… she’ll come back… she’s not far…”

But Rahul kept crying, because for the first time, the house felt empty painfully, unbearably empty.

And somewhere down the road, inside the car, Divya cried just as hard… because leaving home is not about distance.

It’s about leaving a piece of your heart behind.

Vaibhav’s house glowed like a palace in the night, draped in strings of warm lights and fresh flower garlands that swayed gently in the evening breeze.

The entrance was decorated with rangoli in shades of red and gold, tiny diyas flickering like welcoming stars.

The car stopped at the gate.

Ishani quickly stepped out first, her excitement returning after the heavy emotions of the bidaai.

Vaibhav came around to open the door for Divya, who stepped out slowly, her bridal lehenga shimmering under the lights, her eyes still slightly swollen from crying.

Malini stood at the doorway, watching them with a soft, affectionate smile her gaze lingering on Divya, taking in her beauty, her nervousness, her newness to this home.

“Ishani, go bring the thali,” she said gently. “Do the tilak and welcome them properly.”

“Okay, Maa,” Ishani replied, hurrying inside.

Divya and Vaibhav stood side by side at the threshold, the moment stretching quietly between them.

Divya glanced at the decorated house, realizing this was now her home too, yet filled with people who were waiting for her.

Ishani returned with a beautifully decorated thali a small diya glowing at the center, kumkum, rice grains, and a tiny kalash placed beside it.

“Stand properly, both of you,” she said, trying to sound formal but failing to hide her excitement.

She applied tilak on Vaibhav’s forehead, then gently on Divya’s, circling the aarti before them.

“Now, bhabhi,” she said warmly to Divya, placing the small kalash filled with rice at her feet, “knock this over and enter.”

Divya looked down, her heart pounding. She lifted her foot slowly and tipped the kalash.

It rolled forward, spilling rice across the floor  a symbol of prosperity entering the home with her.

Then Ishani guided her toward a shallow plate filled with red alta.

“Step in this and walk inside.”

Divya placed her feet into the red liquid, her anklets chiming softly, and took her first step into the house, leaving delicate crimson footprints on the white floor behind her.

Vaibhav watched quietly, something warm settling in his chest at the sight this was the beginning of their shared life.

As Divya crossed the threshold, everyone inside smiled, some emotional, some excited, all welcoming her.

Malini stepped forward with a gentle smile.“Divya, Vaibhav… first take blessings from God and from your father,” she said softly.

They both nodded and walked toward the small temple in the corner of the hall.

The diya flickered steadily before the idols, filling the air with a calm, sacred warmth.

Side by side, they folded their hands and bowed their heads.

Divya closed her eyes for a moment longer silently asking for strength, for happiness, for the courage to belong here.

Beside the temple, a framed photograph of Randhir rested with a small garland around it.

Vaibhav’s expression softened as he looked at it. He and Divya both folded their hands again.

Malini’s voice trembled slightly as she whispered,“Bless them… fill their lives with happiness.”

Ishani came rushing in just then, carefully holding a large plate filled with milk.“Maa! I brought the thali,” she announced proudly.

Malini nodded. “Hmm, good. Sit them down.”

Divya and Vaibhav were made to sit facing each other on the carpet, their heavy wedding outfits spreading around them.

Cousins gathered instantly, forming a cheerful circle, whispering, giggling, nudging one another in excitement.

Ishani slipped a ring into the milk and announced dramatically,“Three chances! Whoever finds the ring will rule the other for life!”

“Aree!” one cousin laughed loudly.

“Divya bhabhi doesn’t need to rule. Vaibhav bhaiya will follow whatever she says anyway!”

Everyone burst into laughter.

Vaibhav shook his head, smiling helplessly, while Divya lowered her eyes shyly, a soft smile tugging at her lips.

“Ready?” Ishani asked mischievously.

Both nodded.

They dipped their hands into the cool milk at the same time, fingers brushing accidentally beneath the surface a tiny electric moment hidden from everyone else.

Cheers erupted around them.

“Come on, bhaiya!”

“Bhabhi, don’t lose!”

“No cheating!”

In that circle of laughter, teasing, and warmth, the nervous distance between them began to melt replaced by something softer, something promising.

“Start!” Ishani announced dramatically.

First round..

Divya and Vaibhav dipped their hands into the bowl at the same time.

The cold milk sent a tiny shiver up Divya’s arm, but she focused, her bangles clinking softly as she searched for the ring.

Inside the bowl, Vaibhav’s fingers brushed against hers warm, steady, reassuring.

For a brief second, he found the ring first. His hand closed around it… then paused.

He looked up at her.

Divya’s brows were slightly furrowed in concentration, her lips pressed together, completely serious about winning.

A faint smile touched Vaibhav’s face.

Slowly, quietly, he loosened his grip and nudged the ring toward her fingers.

A moment later

“I got it!” Divya exclaimed, pulling her hand out triumphantly, the ring shining between her fingers.

The room exploded with cheers.

“Bhabhi wins first round!”

Vaibhav smiled quietly, watching her happiness as if that alone made it worth it.

Second round....

“Now bhaiya, be serious!” someone shouted.

Again, their hands dipped into the bowl.

This time Divya almost missed it, her fingers sliding past the ring until Vaibhav slowly rolled it back toward her.

She pulled it out again, laughing in disbelief.“Again!”

The room exploded with teasing.

“Vaibhav bhaiya, what are you doing?”

“You’re losing on purpose!”

Vaibhav just shrugged, smiling, not denying it, not explaining either.

Third round..

“This decides everything!” Ishani announced dramatically.

Divya looked determined now, a competitive spark in her eyes.

As they searched again, Vaibhav found the ring once more and once more, quietly let it slip from his fingers into hers.

Divya lifted it high, triumphant.

“I won!”

The cousins burst into loud cheers, clapping and whistling.

“Three out of three!”

“Bhabhi will rule the house now!”

“Vaibhav bhaiya is officially under her control!”

Divya laughed, glowing with childlike victory, while Vaibhav simply looked at her calm, content, almost proud.

“You don’t even look upset,” one cousin said suspiciously.

Vaibhav shook his head softly. “Why would I be?”

Divya glanced at him then, suddenly understanding. Her smile softened, quieter this time, meant only for him.

He didn’t say a word, didn’t take credit, didn’t tease her he just stayed there, happy that she was happy.

And in that small game, everyone saw a playful victory.

But between them, it was something else entirely.

A silent promise that he would always choose her smile over winning.

Malini smiled warmly and said, “Alright, it’s very late now. Take Divya to Vaibhav’s room.”

Divya immediately spoke up, “But I can go by myself, aunty.”

Everyone burst into laughter at her eagerness.

Malini gently cupped her cheek and said lovingly, “You can go… but why aunty? From today, I’m your mother. Call me Mom.”

Divya blushed and nodded shyly. “Yes… Mom.”

Ishani teased, “Shall we go, madam, or will you really go alone?”

Divya quickly grabbed her hand. “No, no you come with me.”

Everyone laughed again. Vaibhav, standing quietly nearby, smiled as he watched her innocence and excitement.

Ishani led Divya to Vaibhav’s room. The room was beautifully decorated with flowers and soft lights.

She made Divya sit on the bed and asked playfully, “So, why are you suddenly so quiet?”

Divya looked around the room and then asked, “Where is Deeksha?”

Ishani sighed softly. “When your car left after the farewell, Rahul started crying a lot. Deeksha was trying to calm him down, and she twisted her ankle. She can barely walk now. Rahul was so worried he kept apologizing to her again and again.”

Divya looked surprised. “Rahul was crying?”

Ishani nodded. “Not in front of you… but later, yes.”

A small smile appeared on Divya’s face. Ishani noticed immediately. “What happened? Did you need Deeksha for something?”

Divya said“Yes… it’s my wedding night. I had bought lingerie. It’s with Deeksha I needed that. But now that she’s hurt, how will she bring it?”

Ishani gasped dramatically. “You seriously have no shame, do you?”

Divya replied confidently, “Why should I be shy? Vaibhav is my husband now. We can do whatever we want.”

Ishani shook her head, laughing. “You are impossible. Alright, I’m leaving. Vaibhav bhaiya will be here soon.”

Divya nodded softly.

Ishani stepped outside and closed the door behind her. Left alone, Divya looked around the beautifully decorated room, her heart beating fast. The fragrance of flowers filled the air.

A shy smile slowly spread across her face.

Divya sat in the middle of the bed, her heavy bridal lehenga spread around her like a crimson halo, her veil falling delicately over her shoulders.

Her bangles chimed faintly every time her nervous fingers moved in her lap.

From outside, she could hear Ishani’s voice teasingly blocking the door.

“First give money, then only I’ll let you go inside,” Ishani laughed.

Vaibhav’s tired but amused voice followed, “You people won’t let a man meet his wife peacefully, will you?”

“Rules are rules!” she insisted.

Divya lowered her gaze, smiling shyly to herself as she listened.

After a moment, she heard the sound of cash being handed over, more laughter, and finally footsteps approaching the door.

The handle turned.

Vaibhav stepped inside and quietly closed the door behind him.

For a moment, he simply stood there, looking at her as if the world had paused just to let him take in the sight.

She looked breathtaking, almost unreal.

He walked slowly toward her.

“You look… unbelievably beautiful today,” he said softly.

Divya looked up at him, her lips curving into a small proud smile. “Then I deserve a gift. I worked very hard for this look three hours of makeup.”

He laughed under his breath, shaking his head fondly, then stood and walked to the wardrobe.

Taking out a small velvet box, he came back and sat in front of her.

“Give me your foot,” he said gently.

She frowned in confusion. “What? Why?”

“Just do it. I’ll tell you.”

Hesitantly, she stretched one foot forward from beneath her lehenga.

“Both,” he added.

She extended both feet, still puzzled.

He opened the box.

Inside was a delicate pair of silver anklets, tiny bells attached that shimmered under the light.

Divya’s breath caught. Her eyes widened instantly.“These… I saw these at the fair… but someone bought them before I could.”

Without saying anything, Vaibhav gently lifted her foot and slipped the anklet around her ankle. The tiny bells chimed softly as he fastened it.

Then he put the other one on.

“I bought them,” he said quietly, looking up at her. “You liked them… so I paid double and got them.”

Her eyes are filled with emotion, shining brighter than her jewelry. Before she could speak, he lowered his head and pressed a gentle kiss on her foot.

A sudden shiver ran through her, her fingers gripping the edge of the bed.

“You liked them, didn’t you?” he asked softly.

She nodded, her smile trembling, then leaned forward and wrapped her arms tightly around him.

“I love you,” she whispered near his ear.

He held her just as tightly, his arms

protective around her.“I love you too, Divya.”

This lehenga is so heavy," Divya sighed, tugging at the thick fabric. "And I don’t even have my clothes here yet."

Vaibhav looked at her tenderly. "You should change and be comfortable. I’ll go to your house and bring your clothes right now."

Divya shook her head. "No, let it be. Everyone must be exhausted and asleep by now. I’ll just take off this heavy jewelry for now."

"I have an idea," Vaibhav said, his voice dropping an octave. "You can wear my clothes for tonight. I’ll fetch your things in the morning."

Divya looked up, a small smile playing on her lips. "That sounds like a good idea."

She reached up to unfasten her jewelry, but the heavy ornaments were stubborn.

The clasps were tangled, and the more she struggled, the more irritated she became. Her bangles clattered as she huffed in frustration.

"Wait," Vaibhav murmured, stepping closer. "Let me."

He began to delicately remove each piece. As his fingers worked near her skin, his warm breath fanned against the nape of her neck, sending a sharp shiver through her entire body.

Divya sat perfectly still, her eyes locked on his face as he carefully unhooked the necklace, the mang tika, and the nose ring.

When the last of the gold was set aside, he looked at her hair. "Should I take out the pins too?"

"Hmm," she whispered, unable to find her voice.

As he began pulling out the endless hairpins, he let out a soft, boyish laugh. "How did you even manage to fit so many pins in your hair?"

Divya laughed with him, the tension finally breaking.

When the last pin was out and her hair fell over her shoulders in dark waves, he stepped back. "There. All done."

Divya stood up, her heart racing. "And... your clothes?"

"Right." Vaibhav went to his wardrobe and pulled out a soft, charcoal-grey kurta.

While Divya disappeared into the washroom, Vaibhav quickly changed out of his heavy wedding sherwani into a simple shirt and trousers.

When the washroom door finally clicked open, he turned around and froze.

Divya stood there, looking small and fragile in his oversized kurta.

The sleeves hung past her wrists, and the fabric carried the faint, woody scent of his cologne.

As she walked toward him, she felt a wave of shyness wash over her; she was literally wrapped in him.

Vaibhav couldn’t look away. He stared at her from head to toe, his gaze lingering on her face, glowing with a new kind of intensity.

He didn't say a word, but the way he looked at her made Divya’s heart skip a beat.

Vaibhav walked over to Divya and gently guided her to sit on the edge of the bed. Looking deep into her eyes, he asked softly, "Are you comfortable, Divya?"

Divya looked up at him and gave a small, quiet nod.

"Hmm," Vaibhav murmured.

He leaned in and pressed a tender kiss against the curve of her neck. The sensation was so sweet that Divya moved even closer to him, leaning into his touch. As he continued, his lips eventually found her lips.

He slid his hand firmly around her waist, pulling her flush against him, and Divya began to respond to his kiss. They stayed like that for a long moment, lost in each other.

Pulling back just a fraction of an inch, his lips still brushing against her lips,

Vaibhav whispered, "I have waited so long for this moment, Divya."

Divya felt a rush of heat to her cheeks, blushing deeply at his words as she looked at him.

She reached up, her fingers grazing his face, and captured his lips in a kiss of her own.

As she kissed him back, all her shyness seemed to melt away, replaced by the deep, silent promise they had just made to one another.

Vaibhav leaned in, his kisses trailing softly across her face. He kissed her closed eyes, then the tip of her nose, before lingering once more on her lips.

From there, he moved down to the curve of her neck, his touch slow and deliberate.

As his kisses descended toward her chest, a wave of longing washed over Divya. She moved even closer to him, pulling him toward her

Divya lay back on the bed, surrendering to the soft mattress beneath her.

Slowly, Vaibhav pulled the kurta over her head, discarding it until she was left in nothing but her lace undergarments.

As he looked at her body for the first time, a violent rush of adrenaline surged through his veins.

Divya couldn't meet his gaze, her eyes fluttering shut as a blush burned across her skin.

Vaibhav hovered over her, his shadow covering her completely. He leaned down, crushing his lips against hers.

Divya reached up, her fingers locking behind his neck, pulling him down with a desperate hunger.

Their tongues met, tangled and tasting of one another.

Vaibhav moved slowly, sucking her upper lip before moving to the lower one, his breath hitching as he silently prayed for time to stop.

Divya wrapped her legs tightly around his waist, pulling him into the heat of her.

The hard evidence of his arousal pressed firmly against her core, sending a jagged shiver through her entire frame.

She felt herself growing wet, an ache of pure longing blooming inside her as they lost themselves in the raw friction of their bodies.

"Aren't you going to take your clothes off?" Divya whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

Vaibhav let out a low, teasing laugh. "I’ll take them off only when you do it for me," he countered, watching the shy flush deepen on her face.

They both sat up on the bed, the air between them thick with unspoken tension.

Vaibhav didn't take his eyes off her for a second.

"Why are you so shy now?" he murmured playfully. "Before, you used to complain that I never come close to you."

"Be quiet!" Divya snapped softly, though there was no bite in her words.

Vaibhav continued to gaze at her with pure devotion. "Well? Are you going to take them off or not?"

Divya took a shaky breath and moved closer to him.

Her hands reached for the hem of his T-shirt, slowly pulling it up and over his head. She had always wanted to see him like this.

As the fabric came off, she saw his bare chest, dusted with light hair just as she had imagined.

She set the shirt aside and let her eyes wander over his upper body.

Vaibhav sat still, his breath hitching as he watched her watch him.

Divya leaned in, closing the distance until her lips pressed against his chest. She began to trail slow, lingering kisses from the top of his collarbone downward.

A low, primal groan escaped Vaibhav’s throat, his muscles tensing under her touch.

Vaibhav stood up from the bed, and Divya’s eyes stayed locked on his body.

Her heart was hammering against her ribs, and she could feel the heavy, damp ache of her core growing more intense by the second.

"The trousers too, Divya," Vaibhav said, his voice low and steady.

With shaky hands, she reached for the waistband of his trousers. Every time her fingertips grazed his bare skin,

Vaibhav’s muscles went stiff under her touch.

She slowly eased the fabric down, and as it fell away, her breath caught in her throat.

She stared at the prominent bulge visible through his underwear, her eyes wide with a mix of nerves and longing.

Feeling his gaze on her, she looked up into his eyes.

Vaibhav was staring back at her, his expression raw and filled with an intensity that made her heart skip a beat.

The underwear too," Vaibhav whispered.

Divya’s breath hitched, her face heating up. "No... I can't do it," she stammered, shaking her head.

Vaibhav let out a soft, understanding laugh. "Hmm, alright." He sat back down and pulled her onto his lap.

Divya wrapped her legs around his waist, the friction of her core pressing directly against the hard bulge of his desire.

The contact sent a jolt through her, and she clung to him even tighter, burying her face in the crook

of his neck.

Vaibhav cupped her face in his hands, forcing her to look at him. "Are you scared?"

Divya gave a small, honest nod.

"Okay," he said gently, brushing a thumb over her cheek. "Then we won't. We’ll wait until you're completely comfortable."

Divya looked at him, moved by his patience, and hugged him fiercely. But then, a surge of bold longing overcame her fear.

"But... I want to," she whispered. To show him, she began to grind her wet core against him, moving her hips in a slow, rhythmic motion.

Vaibhav’s breath caught, a low chuckle escaping his lips as he felt her heat. "Okay," he groaned softly, his grip on her waist tightening. "I’ll take them off myself then."

"Hmm," Divya murmured in agreement, her eyes dark with anticipation.

Vaibhav reached behind her, his fingers finding the hook of her bra. With a steady click, he unclasped it.

He didn't pull it away immediately instead, he began to press slow, lingering kisses along her shoulders.

As he moved, the straps slipped down, and the bra fell away, fully baring her breasts to him for the first time.

Vaibhav gazed at her, his eyes dark with admiration, before leaning in to kiss her sensitive, erect nipples. The contact sent a sharp jolt through

Divya’s entire body, her back arching instinctively.

He moved from one to the other, kissing and then slowly sucking on them until her pale skin turned a flushed, deep red.

Divya gasped, her fingers tangling in his hair as the intense sensation overwhelmed her.

Vaibhav laid her back onto the bed, completely removing her bra.

He focused on her breasts, alternating between deep, lingering sucks and gentle bites that made Divya gasp.

She tangled her fingers in his hair, pulling him even closer, needing the weight of him on top of her.

Then, Vaibhav slowly slid her panties down.

As his fingers grazed her thighs, he saw how wet she was.

He looked up at Divya, whose heart was hammering so loudly she could feel it in her throat.

Overwhelmed by the intensity, she squeezed her eyes shut.

Without warning, Vaibhav slid a finger inside her core.

The sudden sensation made Divya let out a sharp scream, but Vaibhav instantly covered her mouth with his hand.

"Sorry," he whispered urgently into her ear. "Don't scream, the family will hear us."

Divya nodded quickly, her eyes wide.

"I'll be gentle," he promised.

He moved his hand from her mouth and captured her lips in a fierce, passionate kiss.

While their mouths were locked together, he continued to work his middle finger inside her.

Then, he added a second finger, hitting her G-spot with a steady rhythm.

Divya let out muffled moans against his lips, her body arching.

Vaibhav kept his eyes on her face, watching her every expression, while she kept hers tightly closed, lost in the feeling.

Suddenly, her body tensed and she reached her peak, the fluid releasing from her as she collapsed in exhaustion.

Vaibhav pulled back and smiled tenderly, kissing her closed eyelids.

"Tired already?" he teased softly.

Divya’s vision was blurry, her breath coming in short pants. She lay there, feeling the lingering waves of her very first orgasm.

It was a sensation she had never known existed, and in that moment, she felt completely cherished.

Vaibhav stripped off his underwear, his arousal fully exposed and rigid. Divya remained lying back, her eyes wide as she watched him.

A flicker of fear crossed her face.

"It's going to hurt, isn't it?" she whispered.

Vaibhav looked down at her tenderly. "A little," he admitted, "but I'll go very slowly so the pain won't last."

Divya gave a small, hesitant nod. Pre-cum beaded at the tip of Vaibhav's penis as he hovered over her.

He guided himself to her core, easing in with careful, deliberate pressure.

As he pushed forward, Divya winced, the sharp sting of the stretch making her gasp.

"Easy... it's okay," Vaibhav murmured, staying patient.

When he finally pushed all the way in, the sudden fullness made Divya want to scream.

Sensing it, Vaibhav instantly pressed his hand over her mouth. "Shh... it's done now. The pain is over, I promise."

He stayed perfectly still inside her, letting her body adjust to him, his eyes locked onto hers with a mixture of intensity and care.

He waited for her breathing to even out, refusing to move until he knew she was ready.

"Do it," Divya whispered, her voice a mix of nerves and desire.

Vaibhav began to move, sliding his shaft in and out with slow, agonizingly careful strokes. At first,

Divya felt the sharp sting of the stretch, but as the rhythm continued, the pain began to melt away, transforming into a deep, pulsing pleasure.

Vaibhav reached for her hands, lacing his fingers with hers and pinning them gently above her head against the pillow.

He maintained the steady pace, his body moving against hers in a rhythmic dance.

The heat building inside her became too much to bear.

"Faster," Divya urged, her voice breathy.

She arched her back, meeting his thrusts with her own hips and locking her legs tightly around his waist to pull him deeper.

She was no longer afraid; she wanted to feel every bit of him.

Vaibhav had been fighting his own desires, holding himself back just to ensure Divya wasn't in pain.

But the moment she whispered for him to go faster, he lost all his self-control.

He plunged into her with a new, raw intensity, his penis striking her G-spot with every powerful thrust.

The silence of the room was broken only by the rhythmic, melodic chiming of Divya’s new payals as her feet moved with the heat of the moment.

Vaibhav leaned down, burying his face in her chest and sucking on her breasts as he moved within her.

Divya met him stroke for stroke, her body perfectly in sync with his.

She arched her back, her hips rising to meet his weight, locking them together in a desperate, beautiful rhythm as the pleasure reached a fever pitch.

Vaibhav’s fingers were locked tightly with Divya’s, their hands pinned against the pillow as he poured all his strength into every thrust.

The friction and the rhythm were overwhelming, and suddenly, a second wave of intense pleasure crashed over Divya, her body shaking as she reached her orgasm again.

Vaibhav didn’t stop he pushed through one final, powerful surge until he reached his own peak, groaning as he released everything inside her.

He collapsed softly against her, catching his breath, and then leaned up to press a lingering kiss to her lips.

He grazed his thumb affectionately over her flushed cheeks. "I love you," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "Finally... we are one."

Divya was completely spent, her body heavy with exhaustion.

She buried her face into the warmth of his bare chest, her voice a tired murmur. "I'm so tired..."

"Hmm, I know. Go to sleep," Vaibhav whispered.

He slowly withdrew from her, the intimacy of the moment still hanging in the air.

Without reaching for any clothes, they pulled the covers over themselves and stayed locked in a tight embrace.

Tangled together, skin against skin, they finally drifted off into a deep, peaceful sleep in each other's arms.

Like and comment please 🙏❤️

(OMG, I wrote all this? I can’t believe it’s so bold I’m feeling shy, Please guys, this chapter should get lots of likes, please! 💗)