Dhaagey: The Ties that Bind Us

28. promises

Murtasim insisted on going through with the muh dikhai, even though his mother insisted it could happen after the rukhsati, but his voice was steady and convincing, leaving no room for argument. Maa Begum glared at her son, her eyes carrying an ancient wisdom and a certain fondness. He quoted her own words back to her, reminding her of the importance of following traditions.

Meerab bit on her lips to hold back the laughter that threatened to escape her at the irony of the moment, Murtasim using his mother's words against her

As Meerab had expected, Maa Begum slid on the ancestral kangans onto her wrist - delicate, ornate bracelets that held symbolic importance. The clink of the diamond kangans as they slid onto Meerab's wrists was almost like music to her ears, each chime resonating with her newfound joy. Then, she felt the cool metal of Maa Begum's ring slipped onto her finger. It was followed by a motherly touch that warmed her to the core, Maa Begum's hands cupping her face, her eyes twinkling with love and affection.

She planted a soft kiss on Meerab's forehead, making the moment all the more special. "I know it's a little silly, but welcome to the family...in your new role." Maa Begum whispered as she pulled away.

Meerab grinned at her, appreciating the sentiment.

Turning to Murtasim, Maa Begum spoke in a firm voice. "Thirty minutes."

Murtasim was quick to counter, his voice laced with charm. "One hour."

Maa Begum's lips pursed into a stern line. "Murtasim." It was a warning, an assertion of her authority, and yet, a silent acknowledgement of his plea.

"45 minutes." He negotiated, his eyes holding a silent promise of adherence.

"Not a minute more." Maa Begum affirmed, a reluctant surrender that was both a testament to her trust in her son and a reflection of her love for Meerab who too had nodded along with Murtasim's suggestions. Maa Begum, Murtasim, and Meerab all nodded, a silent agreement passing between them.

Meerab didn't fail to notice that the door to the room was left ajar on purpose.

Exhausted from the day's festivities, Meerab sank onto Murtasim's bed, a sigh escaping her lips as she eased into the comfort of the soft mattress. The fabric of her bridal dress rustled beneath her, like a whispered promise of the new life awaiting her. She folded her legs beneath her, positioning herself comfortably, all the while trying to catch her breath. Reaching up, she released the veil from her head, the fine material slipping through her fingers, catching the light.

It had been an eventful day, but the anticipation that was threading itself into every inch of her being, had pushed any signs of exhaustion away. Her heart was thrumming with a rhythm that sounded a lot like Murtasim's name, making her acutely aware that she was in his room, on his bed. She was his wife!

Lifting her gaze, Meerab met Murtasim's eyes, which were wide and dark, his expression one of slack-jawed awe. It was an expression that was simultaneously full of surprise, appreciation, and something else... something that sent a shiver down her spine and left a trail of goosebumps in its wake. It was clear; the sight of her on his bed had stunned him, eliciting a response that neither of them had been prepared for. She couldn't help but giggle at the flustered look on his face.

"Maybe you should move off the bed, that's distracting." Murtasim murmured, his voice low and shaky, his gaze never leaving her. The desire in his voice made her flush.

Meerab playfully pouted, her eyebrows knitting together in faux defiance. "Help me take it off." She murmured, batting her eyelashes at him in a way she knew would make his heart flutter. The corner of her lips quirked upwards when he faltered, his gaze flickering with uncertainty and yearning. "Just my jewelry, Murtasim." She clarified, her words prompting a relieved sigh from him.