An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 79

The ceremony had concluded, and Cabir and Navya were officially pronounced husband and wife. A delightful photoshoot followed, capturing precious moments with family and the newlyweds. Later, back at the cottage, a few minimal rituals were performed, as the primary ceremonies were scheduled to take place the next day at the Malhotra Mansion.

The next morning, at precisely 9 a.m., the entire family set off for Bombay.

"Welcome home, Navya," Nyonika said warmly, passing the ceremonial thali to Nandini, who carefully placed the traditional kalash in front of Navya. The new bride stepped into the house, performing each ritual meticulously as instructed.

"Nandini, you have the cupboard keys, right? Please fetch the gifts for Navya," Nyonika instructed. Nandini nodded and made her way to the room.

"Guys, I'll be back in a moment," Manik announced, swiftly following Nandini, leaving behind a group of chuckling family members who exchanged knowing glances.

Nandini unlocked the cupboard and rummaged through neatly stacked clothes until she spotted the elegant blue jewelry boxes. She exhaled in relief and began gathering them, though there were too many to carry at once. Managing as best as she could, she carefully placed them on the bed before securing the cupboard once again.

Just as she lifted the boxes and stepped out of the room, Manik appeared out of nowhere, startling her. The unexpected intrusion caused her to gasp, and the jewelry boxes tumbled from her hands, scattering across the floor. Manik froze, his face a picture of guilt, as Nandini placed her hands on her waist and shot him a glare.

"What on earth is wrong with you, Manik?" she exclaimed, bending down to gather the boxes, checking each one for damage.

Manik, equally flustered, hurried to assist her, carefully handing her the last box with an apologetic expression.

"I'm really sorry," he muttered.

Nandini sighed and, despite herself, couldn't stay annoyed for long. "It's alright," she said, shaking her head. "But since you caused this mess, you have to help me now."

"Of course! That was my intention all along," Manik replied with a mischievous smirk, extending his hand to take a few boxes from her.

"Oh no, not with these," Nandini said, holding onto the jewelry. "I'll carry them myself. You, on the other hand, need to go to our room, open the locker, and bring out the gifts we bought for Navya and Cabir."

Manik frowned slightly. "Are you sure? At least let me take some of these. How will you see where you're going with that huge stack?" he asked, eyeing the tall pile of boxes that practically blocked her vision.

"Manik, I'll manage. Just go and come back quickly," Nandini reassured him, determinedly stepping forward.

But Manik wasn't convinced. "Nandini, wait. Stop right there," he said, closing the distance between them. He swiftly took a few boxes from her, lightening her load.

Nandini sighed but smiled at her ever-thoughtful husband as they descended the stairs together. They placed the boxes on the table in front of Nyonika before Manik departed to fulfill Nandini's request. Meanwhile, Nandini found herself engaged in conversation with some of the women in the house.

Once the gift ceremony concluded, Nandini took Navya upstairs to rest.

"This is your room now, Navya," Nandini said, leading her inside.

Navya began removing her jewelry, glancing around. "Why has the room shifted downstairs? I thought we were supposed to stay in the one upstairs?" she asked curiously.

"The other room wasn't spacious enough for both of you," Nandini explained. "The closet there was originally designed for a single person. So, Nyonika decided to relocate you here."

Navya raised an eyebrow playfully. "Oh, or is it because no one wanted us to enjoy the beautiful garden view from upstairs?" she teased, making Nandini pause in surprise.

"What?" Nandini asked, bewildered.

Navya laughed. "Relax, I was just joking!" she assured before heading into the washroom. Nandini shook her head with a small smile and left for her own room.

Later that night, Manik entered their room and found Nandini sitting by the window, gazing at the endless sky. The moonlight bathed her in a soft glow, highlighting the quiet contemplation on her face. He removed his blazer, rolled up his sleeves, and approached her. Sitting down in front of her, he studied her face with concern.

Sensing his presence, Nandini opened her eyes and looked at him.

"Hi," Manik greeted her gently.

"Hello," she replied, shifting slightly to make space for him.

He searched her expression and, with his perceptive nature, saw through her composed demeanor. "Didn't you promise me that you wouldn't let things affect you, Nandini?" he asked softly.

She turned to face him fully. "I did, Manik, and I'm fine. Look at me—do I seem upset?" she asked, wrapping her arms around him, resting her head against his chest. He sighed, embracing her in return, holding her close.

"You may not be sad, but you're not happy either," he observed.

Nandini tightened her hold around him, letting the warmth of his presence soothe her. "Right now, in this moment, I am," she murmured.

Manik smiled, pressing a tender kiss against her hair. "Do you want me to talk to Navya?" he offered, unwilling to see her troubled.

"No, Manik, please don't," Nandini said quickly, pulling away slightly. Manik raised an eyebrow at her reaction, concern flickering in his eyes.

She took a deep breath. "I mean, there's no need. She'll be fine. The wedding has exhausted her, and she's just acting out."

Manik exhaled, nodding reluctantly. "I hope so. But for now, I want my Nandini to be... well, Nandini," he said, pulling her into his embrace once more.

A small giggle escaped her lips as she nestled closer to him. "That I can do," she whispered.

Manik cupped her face gently, tilting it upward so their eyes met. "You know, the moon looks beautiful tonight," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Nandini hummed in agreement. "It does."

He leaned in, his forehead resting against hers. "But not as beautiful as you."

She smiled, her heart warming at his words. "You always know the right things to say, don't you?"

"Only when it comes to you," he whispered before sealing the moment with a soft, lingering kiss, one that spoke of love, comfort, and an unspoken promise to always stand by her side.

And in that moment, everything else faded away, leaving just the two of them wrapped in each other's warmth, under the watchful eyes of the stars above.