An Arranged Journey To Forever

121

"Mamma, I'm taking Yug and Vihaan to the garden," announced Amayra, glancing at Nandini, who was engrossed in a conversation with Naira and Suman. They had taken on the responsibility of checking the gifts one last time—mainly Naira, though Nandini and Suman had decided to keep her company.

"Alright, sweetheart, but please be careful," Nandini cautioned, watching Amayra nod enthusiastically.

"Don't worry, Masi. We've got her covered," Yug reassured, slinging an arm around Amayra's neck as the trio made their way out.

Once they left, Naira turned to Suman, curiosity evident in her tone. "So, Suman, what's new in your life? It's been ages since we caught up."

"Not much. Career-wise, things are going well. And as for my personal life, well, you see it—single and happy," Suman replied with a lighthearted smile.

"She was just telling me about someone she likes but can't gather the courage to approach," Nandini interjected, stretching slightly to ease the ache in her back.

"Oh really? Suman, you can totally do this!" Naira encouraged with a grin.

"I'm just afraid of rejection," Suman admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Rejection is better than lifelong regret," Naira countered.

"Exactly what I've been telling her," Nandini chimed in. "But ultimately, Suman, do what makes you happy. That's what truly matters."

The conversation continued as they sifted through hampers and baskets, ensuring everything was in order. A few minutes later, Nandini's phone rang—Shanaya was calling.

"Hello, Shanaya," Nandini greeted warmly.

"Hey, Nandini! How are you?" Shanaya's voice came through the receiver.

"I'm good. What's up? Do you need me to hand the phone to Bhai?" Nandini guessed, recalling the last time Shanaya had called when Abhimanyu's phone was out of reach.

"No, no, actually, I need a favor. I forgot to bring the red dupatta I was planning to wear for the evening puja. Do you happen to have a spare one?"

"I don't, unfortunately, but don't worry—I'm sure someone here does. I'll arrange it and bring it to your room," Nandini assured her.

"Oh no, please don't go through the trouble of coming all the way here. Just let me know if you find one, and I'll come pick it up."

"Are you sure?" Nandini asked.

"Yes, absolutely! I'll see you soon," Shanaya replied before ending the call.

Nandini turned to Naira. "Do you have a red dupatta?"

"Yes, does Shanaya need it?" Naira asked.

Nandini nodded. "She does."

"Let's take it to her," Naira suggested.

"She said she'd send someone or come herself," Nandini explained.

"Oh, come on, Di. I'd love to meet her too," Naira insisted.

"Alright, let me just tell Manik to keep an eye on the kids," Nandini conceded. "Suman, want to come along? You'll get to meet Shanaya."

"I'd love to, but I need to help Mom with something. You guys go ahead—I'll see her at the puja anyway," Suman replied.

Nandini nodded with a smile before heading to her room, where she found Manik and Kartik, deep in conversation. Expecting them to be discussing work, she was surprised to see them enjoying snacks and laughing.

"What's so funny?" she asked, grabbing her dupatta from the bedside.

"Nothing, just some random chatter," Manik replied. "Are you going somewhere?"

"Naira and I are heading to see Shanaya. Meanwhile, you and Kartik keep an eye on the kids."

"Where are they?" Kartik inquired.

"In the garden, I think," Nandini responded.

"Alright, let's go check on them," Kartik said, leaving the room. Manik followed, but not before turning to Nandini with a soft smile.

"Take care, alright?" he murmured, subtly hinting at her backache.

Nandini smiled in return and quickly pressed a kiss to his cheek before stepping out. Manik chuckled, making sure Kartik wasn't looking. Over time, they had learned to keep their intimate moments private—it made them even more special.

Nandini and Naira made their way to the other unit of the resort, where the bride's family was staying. While Nandini shared a good rapport with Shanaya, Naira had yet to meet her. Nandini had initially doubted whether Abhimanyu would move on after his past heartbreak, but seeing him emotionally invested in Shanaya had filled her with gratitude and admiration for the woman who had rekindled love in her brother's life.

"Hello, Aunty," Nandini greeted Mrs. Chauhan, who was occupied with some documents.

The elegant lady looked up and smiled. "Ah, my dear Nandini!"

She had always admired how Nandini gracefully balanced her relationships, earning the love and respect of those around her. It was no wonder Manik adored her—her kindness extended to everyone, regardless of status or familiarity.

Mrs. Chauhan embraced Nandini before turning to Naira. "It's wonderful to finally meet you, dear."

Naira greeted her warmly.

"We're here to see Shanaya, Aunty," Nandini explained.

"She's in Room 202. Go ahead, I'll send some refreshments."

"That's very kind, but we won't be staying long," Nandini assured her.

"Alright, but do be here before 5 for the puja. Also, let Ishita know."

Nandini and Naira took the lift to Shanaya's room. Upon knocking, they heard her voice inviting them in.

"Abhi, I'll call you later," Shanaya said before hanging up. She greeted them with a warm hug.

"You should have called—I would've come to you," she said.

"Naira wanted to meet you," Nandini said, handing over the dupatta.

"You're even prettier than what Ishita Ma told me," Naira complimented.

"Oh, no need for flattery!" Shanaya joked.

"It's not flattery—I genuinely admire you," Naira replied sincerely.

"Thank you, that means a lot!" Shanaya said with a blush. "How are Yug and Vihaan? I can't wait to see them."

"They're loving it here, especially at their Nani's place," Naira replied.

"And trust me, they'll adore Shanaya too. She's amazing with kids. Even Amayra, who usually takes time to warm up to people, bonded with her instantly," Nandini added.

Shanaya smiled gratefully. The three continued chatting, bonding over shared interests. Surprisingly, Naira and Shanaya discovered their mutual love for cricket—although Nandini noted that their discussion mostly revolved around Virat Kohli's charm rather than the game itself!

After an hour and a half, Nandini's phone rang. It was Manik.

"Haan, Manik?" she answered.

"How much longer?" he asked.

"Not sure—Naira and Shanaya are enjoying themselves."

"Alright..." A brief pause. "Amayra is asking for you."

Nandini frowned. Manik was usually excellent at keeping Amayra engaged for hours.

"Is she okay?" she asked, concern creeping into her voice.

"She's fine, just looking for you. I'd rather she doesn't come searching. Can you come back? Soon?" Manik added quickly.

"I'm on my way," Nandini reassured him.

"Naira, I need to go. You stay as long as you like."

"No, Di, I'm coming too. See you, Shanaya!" Naira hugged her before following Nandini out.