His Rooh

01 | Her arrival

The grand mansion, a fusion of modern design and Rajasthani culture, stood nestled in the sprawling gardens of Rajasthan. Sunlight painted golden hues on the sandstone walls and the ornate arches as it rose over the horizon. The residence of the Malhotra family was coming alive, all in anticipation of a special day.

Servants moved swiftly and purposefully, adorning the mansion with vibrant marigold garlands, traditional rangoli patterns, and ornamental lights. The air buzzed with excitement and a touch of nervousness, for today marked the much-awaited homecoming of Aruhi, the apple of the Malhotra family's eye.

Arvind, the family patriarch and a man of utmost grace and kindness, oversaw the arrangements with meticulous attention. He spoke to the staff, his tone a blend of authority and warmth. "Ensure every detail is impeccable. Today is a joyous day for our family."

Shalini, Arvind's loving wife, was the epitome of grace as she flitted through the halls, supervising the preparations. "The rangoli at the entrance should be welcoming and beautiful," she directed, her eyes shining with excitement.

Anirudh, the eldest son and a pillar of support for the family, joined the preparations with an air of protectiveness. "Is everything ready for Aruhi's arrival?" he asked, his eyes reflecting the joy that surged within him.

Siddharth, the younger son known for his playful teasing and wit, chimed in. "Don't worry, Anirudh bhaiya. We've thought of everything. Even Vivaan is ready to welcome his favorite bui."

Vivaan, the adorable three-year-old bundle of energy and Aruhi's favourite person, was bursting with enthusiasm. "Bui, bui!" he exclaimed, jumping with excitement.

As the mansion bustled with activity, the anticipation grew. Aruhi's return was not just a family affair; it was a moment of celebration that united the entire household. The grandeur of the mansion was matched only by the warmth and love that filled every corner of the abode.

Today, the Malhotra family stood united, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the young woman whose aspirations and accomplishments had brought immense pride and joy to their lives. They had prepared everything with love, for Aruhi was more than just family—she was the heart and soul of their home.

Aruhi

The anticipation was palpable as I entered the grand mansion. My heart raced with excitement. I had missed this place, missed my family, missed their warm embraces and comforting presence. As I stepped through the door, I felt the love that had always been the essence of our home.

Papa was the first to greet me. He stood there with open arms, his eyes filled with pride and joy. "Our Aru is back!" he exclaimed, his deep voice resonating with love. I rushed into his embrace, and his hug was like a secure cocoon. "It's good to be home," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion.

Anirudh, my eldest brother, joined our hug. "Safe journey, little one?" he asked with a hint of concern, his eyes filled with love.

"Haan Bhaiya, all good," I assured him. His protective nature always warmed my heart. "I missed everyone so much."

Siddharth, my other elder brother, couldn't resist teasing me. "We missed you too, even though we had to handle Vivaan's antics all alone," he said, a mischievous grin on his face. "And Vivaan wasn't the same without his bui around."

I couldn't help but laugh at his teasing. But then, in a sudden shift, Siddharth wrapped his arms around me in a heartfelt hug. "You have no idea how much you were missed, Aruhi," he said, his voice tinged with emotion. It was a precious moment, feeling his strong embrace and the genuine warmth in his words. 

After our little moment, Anirudh bhaiya suggested we head inside. The decorations were a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Every corner seemed to be rejoicing in my return. As we walked through the gates, nostalgia-tinged with excitement filled the air.

As we walked through the mansion's threshold, I saw my mother standing there, a warm and welcoming smile on her face. In her hands, she held the plate adorned with a diya and flowers, ready to welcome me. My two bhabhis, Ria and Sanya, stood beside her, their smiles lighting up the room.

Mumma performed the aarti, gently waving the thali in a circular motion in front of me. It was a ritual that invoked blessings and protection.

When it was done, she gently placed her hand on my head and blessed me. Her touch was a soothing balm to my soul. I leaned forward and hugged her, a silent conversation of love and longing between us. Her embrace was a haven, a place where all my worries dissolved.

After that I stepped towards my Bhabhis, Ria Bhabhi hugged me tightly, and I could feel the love and warmth that had been missing during my time away. Her eyes were moist with happiness. "We've all been waiting for you," she whispered.

Sanya, my to-be Bhabhi, embraced me as well, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Aruhi, welcome back! Now that you're here, we can join forces and give Siddharth a taste of his own medicine," she said with a mischievous grin.

We all laughed, and I felt truly blessed to have such wonderful women joining our family. As the evening unfolded, my heart swelled with love and happiness. This was where I belonged, amidst my loved ones, in the embrace of my family.

And then, just as I thought the moment couldn't get any better, Vivaan, my little baby, grabbed and tugged at my dupatta in excitement."Bui, bui! Up!" he shouted, leaping up and down, his joy infectious. I swept him into my arms, and his laughter filled the air. "I miissed my little baby!" I exclaimed and smooched his chubby cheeks.

Ria Bhabhi, who had been watching the heartwarming reunion, approached me with a gentle smile. She patted my head in a motherly way. "Go, Aruhi, freshen up and take some rest," she advised with a soft, reassuring tone. "The journey must have been long, and you need your energy back."

Thanking her with a warm smile, I made my way to my room, anticipation and nostalgia intertwining in my heart. As I stood there, gazing at familiar surroundings, a wave of memories washed over me. 

I sat on my bed, the flood of memories evoking both joy and a touch of wistfulness. The familiar scent, the comfort of my own space, all of it felt like a warm embrace from the past. As the day wound down and the sun dipped below the horizon, my thoughts lingered on the beautiful journey that awaited me.