An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 54

The grand mausoleum erected above the legendary burial site of Hero and Leander was a mesmerizing spectacle, so breathtaking that it ensnared the gaze of all who beheld it. The intricate craftsmanship and the sheer magnificence of the structure had an almost hypnotic effect, drawing admiration and awe in equal measure. Our group of friends was no exception; they found themselves spellbound, unable to tear their eyes away from the artistry before them.

As they stood admiring the architectural marvel, Alya's eyes lit up with excitement. "Guys, there's a bridge to the east," she said enthusiastically. "I overheard some girls talking about an old belief—if you look into the water beneath the bridge, the first reflection you see is that of the person you are destined to be with. Let's go and test it out!"

Naira, intrigued, turned to Kartik, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "That sounds interesting! Kartik, let's go, please?" she urged.

Kartik chuckled, wrapping an arm around her. "But why? We're already married, and I love you. What's the point?"

At the same time, Nandini was engaged in her own persuasive tactics with Manik. She slipped her hands around his arm, gazing up at him with an expression so irresistibly innocent that Manik had no choice but to succumb.

"Please, Manik?" she pleaded softly.

With a sigh of surrender, he nodded.

Abhimanyu, standing nearby, scoffed playfully. "You all go ahead. We don't even have partners. How can we see a reflection that doesn't exist?"

Nandini, ever the optimist, turned to him. "Come on, Bhai, let's just try! Who knows what might happen?"

Reluctantly, he agreed, and soon, the entire group found themselves standing atop the bridge. They closed their eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath, then leaned forward to gaze into the water below.

As expected, the couples saw each other's reflections, bringing smiles to their faces. Navya saw Cabir, and though the realization thrilled them both, they remained silent, concealing their emotions. Manik, however, observed Cabir's expression keenly and understood the truth hidden behind his eyes. Alya and Dhruv, bound only by friendship, were surprised to find each other's reflections staring back at them, leaving them puzzled. But the most astonishing revelation came when Mukti saw Abhimanyu's reflection, a discovery that bewildered her to no end. She kept it to herself, while Abhimanyu, when asked, merely stated that he saw nothing but blank water, further deepening the mystery.

Setting aside their contemplations, they decided to head back home before nightfall. The evening chill had begun to creep in, making the idea of wandering around after dark unappealing. Upon returning, they enjoyed a hearty dinner before retreating to their rooms, drifting into slumber with thoughts of the inexplicable reflections lingering in their minds.

Day Three: The Haldi Ceremony

The morning dawned with a golden glow, reflecting the vibrancy of the celebrations to come. The entire venue was draped in hues of yellow, radiating warmth and festivity. Guests adorned themselves in stunning yellow ensembles, while the Murthy and Malhotra families distinguished themselves in regal shades of orange, harmonizing beautifully with the decor.

Traditionally, some had suggested that the bride and groom should remain apart during the Haldi ceremony, but the families, grounded in logic and love rather than empty customs, dismissed the idea. "Why should they be separated?" was the prevailing sentiment. "When two people are bound by fate and blessed by the divine, no superstition can stand in their way."

Inside the bride's chamber, Nandini sat before the mirror, her beauty enhanced by simplicity. Her friends fussed over her, ensuring every detail was perfect. As she reached for her jewelry, a gentle knock at the door interrupted her.

Nyonika stepped in, a warm smile gracing her lips. "May I come in?" she asked kindly.

"Mamma!" Nandini exclaimed, rising to embrace her. "You never have to ask!" She pulled back, her eyes twinkling. "You look beautiful, Mamma."

Nyonika chuckled. "Oh, my dear, it is you who looks breathtaking today. No one will be able to take their eyes off you."

Seating herself beside Nandini, she reached into her purse and withdrew a delicate bundle of black threads. "Give me your hand," she instructed gently.

Nandini, though puzzled, complied. Nyonika tied one of the threads around her wrist before placing a tender kiss on her forehead. "This is to ward off any evil eyes. You and Manik deserve a lifetime of happiness, and I will do everything in my power to ensure it. We are so incredibly lucky to have you in our family, Nandini."

Tears welled in Nandini's eyes. She had heard so many stories of strict, domineering mothers-in-law, the ones depicted in television dramas as cold and unyielding. But Nyonika was nothing like that. She was a mother in every sense of the word, kind and unwavering in her love. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Nandini embraced her tightly. "I love you, Mamma," she whispered.

Nyonika wiped her tears, smiling. "I love you more, my dear. I love you a hundred crores."

Nandini chuckled through her tears. "Then I love you two hundred crores."

Their affectionate exchange might have continued indefinitely had they not been interrupted.

"And I love you both ten thousand crores," Manik interjected, stepping into the room.

The two women turned to him, laughter dancing in their eyes. Nyonika extended her arms, and Manik sat between them, enveloping them both in a heartfelt embrace. He had followed his mother for some work but had stopped in his tracks upon hearing their conversation. Watching them, he felt an overwhelming sense of warmth. This was what he had always wanted—a family built on love, a bond he would cherish forever.

He grinned. "Mom, what about me? You only brought the black thread for your daughter? What if I get the evil eye? Have you already forgotten me?"

Nyonika twisted his ear playfully. "Stop with your drama. Give me your hand." She tied a thread around his wrist as well, silently wishing for his happiness.

After she left, Manik turned to Nandini, who still had tears glistening in her eyes. Pulling her into his arms, he held her close. "I know you're happy," he murmured. "You don't need tears to show it."

She nodded, pressing her face against his chest. "Thank you, Manik. It's because of you that I have such a wonderful family."

He cupped her face, brushing his lips against hers before whispering, "And you have given me a love worth cherishing forever."

With that, the Haldi ceremony began, brimming with joy, laughter, and the promise of a love that would last a lifetime.