Our Forbidden Love

Chapter 21

Today was a day of mixed emotions for Manisha. It was supposed to be her marriage day, but it didn't feel like a joyful occasion. Instead, anxiety dominated her thoughts.

The decision to have a court marriage before the traditional rituals was her father's idea, a cautious approach to ensure Manisha wouldn't run away. Though practical, this decision had taken its toll on Manisha.

Last night, Manisha had wept uncontrollably. It had been a week since she last saw Abhishek. He had left abruptly, promising to return soon.

Doubts started creeping into her mind. Did he betray her? Moments like these made her question her faith in their love. But she quickly dismissed those thoughts, reminding herself how deeply Abhishek loved her.

Manisha picked up a photograph of Abhishek and herself, captured by Nischay. In the picture, they stood hand in hand, sharing a genuine, joyous moment together. She stared into Abhishek's eyes in the photo, convinced that his love for her was unwavering.

Yet, she couldn't ignore the fact that he hadn't been answering her calls or messages. Uncertainty took hold of her thoughts, leaving her feeling lost and confused.

Feeling overwhelmed, Manisha sat on her bed and allowed her tears to flow freely.

Amidst her emotional turmoil, she found solace in a plushie that Abhishek had given her.

She clutched it tightly, seeking comfort in its presence. She knew she had to gather the strength to face her fears.

One particular fear, Rahul, had been haunting Manisha. His face, with its eerie grin, struck fear deep into her heart. His presence alone was enough to send shivers down her spine. However, she refused to let her fear control her..

Manisha wiped her tears, took a deep breath, and decided it was time to face both her fears and uncertainties head-on.

They lay on the couch together, Manisha's head resting gently on Abhishek's chest, seeking comfort and solace. Manisha wrapped her arms around Abhishek, holding him tightly as she tried to suppress her lingering anger.

In an attempt to lighten the atmosphere, Abhishek mustered a warm smile and said, "Naraz nahi hone denge apko, Manisha ji." 

Manisha looked up at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of vulnerability and curiosity. "Pakka?" she asked expectantly, seeking reassurance.

Abhishek nodded, his smile widening. "Pakka ji," he affirmed, his voice filled with determination. He gently caressed Manisha's cheek, his touch conveying affection and understanding.

Manisha closed her eyes and allowed the memories to flood her mind. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself amidst the chaos of emotions.

It had been a long journey for her, filled with moments of happiness, love, and heartbreak. But now, everything seemed to be crashing down around her.

Just as the weight of her past became overwhelming, a knock echoed through the silence of her room. Startled, Manisha opened her eyes and rushed to the door. A maid stood there, her face filled with concern.

"Manisha, aapke papa apko bula rahe hai," the maid said softly.

Manisha sighed, her heart sinking. With reluctant steps, she made her way to the main room. As she entered, her eyes met the gaze of Rahul, the man her father had chosen for her. A shiver ran down her spine as his cold, calculating eyes studied her.

Beside Rahul stood her father, his face lined with determination.

The presence of a lawyer and a prepared register sent a wave of panic through Manisha's heart. Everything was already decided. All that remained was her signature on the document.

A weak smile formed on Manisha's lips as she thought about the absence of Abhishek.

In her mind, his smiling face appeared once again, filling her with a mix of longing and sadness. Tears threatened to escape her eyes, but she blinked them back, refusing to let them fall.

Her father's shout brought her back to reality, snapping her out of her trance. With trembling hands, she picked up the pen that lay before her, her mind racing with conflicting thoughts and desires.

She didn't want this marriage with Rahul, but it seemed like her hopes for a happy life were slipping away.

Nahi aye aap Abhishek ji. Aapne wada todh diya, she said in her mind.