Here After!

6. Her New Abode

Giri

I struggled to find the right words to console her, understanding her feelings all too well from when we sent Gayu off to her in-laws. Instead, I simply took her hand in mine, offering silent support. Anil and Gayu attempted to lift the mood by steering the conversation elsewhere, gradually easing her tears. Throughout it all, I maintained my grip, and we exchanged a few words for the rest of the afternoon. Later, we have a small reception planned at home, where her family will also join us. With little time to spare upon arrival, we must swiftly prepare for the welcoming ceremony and subsequent rituals. I hope she finds it easy to adjust to our home.

Upon our arrival, as instructed by Mom, we paused at the threshold. She handed the lamp to Anu and instructed her to enter by stepping in with her right foot. Sensing her difficulty in managing the lamp and her saree, I assisted by lifting her saree slightly to prevent her from tripping. Together, we proceeded to our home temple, where we placed the lamp and bowed before the deity and my father's portrait, seeking blessings. Following this, we were invited to sit, and Mom offered us glasses of milk to share, as per tradition. These rituals and gestures were meticulously documented by the photography team, who often requested retakes for the perfect shot.

After a while, Mom asked Gayu to accompany Anu inside and assist her in changing into more comfortable attire. Anu followed Gayu, and I took the opportunity to freshen up and change into a more relaxed outfit, albeit adhering to the traditional dress code of dhotis and shirts, as per Mom's instructions. Upon emerging from my shower, I found Gayu in my room, searching for Anu's attire. I directed her to the cupboard so she could select the appropriate outfit. I stepped out to give them some space and then rejoined my friends.

My group of friends was quite diverse, comprising colleagues, schoolmates, college buddies, and even neighbors. Despite some of them meeting for the first time, they hit it off instantly, chatting away like old pals and even making plans for a two-day trip. I joined in their lively conversation, covering topics ranging from the price of petrol to the latest developments in rocket science. Amidst the banter, they didn't miss an opportunity to tease me and another friend who was also soon to be a groom. Our discussions continued until I was called inside to prepare for the reception, as the time was drawing near.

As I entered, Mom informed me that Anu's family had begun their journey from their home and would soon arrive. She instructed me to prepare myself since Anu was getting ready in Gayu's room. After dressing in the outfit Gayu had arranged for me, I emerged to find Mom introducing our neighbors and relatives to Anu. She looked elegant in simple attire, perfectly complementing my outfit, adorned with minimal jewelry consisting of two bangles and the Mangalsutra, her smile radiating warmth throughout. With guests beginning to arrive, our home buzzed with activity as we prepared for the function.

Anu became emotional upon seeing her parents. She instinctively reached for her father's hand and stood by his side until her mother scolded her for leaving my side. With a simple gesture, I indicated that it was alright for her to be with them, to which she responded with a smile. Anish, ever the teasing brother, couldn't resist making fun of his sister. He joked that he had managed to escape from one sister's grasp only to be bound by another in just ten days. He playfully listed all the things he would now have sole ownership of, including the TV remote, Mom's cooking, and the stash of chocolates and ice cream in the fridge. His antics drew laughter from the audience, while his sisters protested and sought their father's intervention.

Despite the limited time, everyone relished the moments spent together, sharing dinner before Anu's family prepared to depart. Once again, emotions ran high as Anu hesitated to bid them farewell, her eyes welling up with tears. Sensing her distress, I approached her, offering a comforting embrace. Eventually, as everyone departed, only a few friends and cousins remained. Mom and Gayu accompanied Anu indoors along with the other ladies, while we tidied up, mindful of the late hour.

By the day's end, it was just Mom, Gayu, Anil, their kids, Anu, and me left. After everyone freshened up, we gathered in the living room for a chat. The children were visibly tired from the day's activities and soon began to doze off. Mom suggested I also freshen up and rest, so I made my way to my room. As I walked away, I overheard Mom telling Gayu to send Anu to my room. While I anticipated this, I couldn't shake off a slight feeling of unease. Anu might be feeling a mix of emotions about staying with me. "Keep calm, Giri," I reminded myself, trying to reassure myself that these thoughts were natural.

While I was organizing my attire, Anu entered the room cautiously. I greeted her warmly, and she responded with a hesitant smile. Unsure of what to do next, she stood quietly in one corner until I motioned for her to relax. After nodding in acknowledgment, she placed the mug she was holding on the table and made her way to the bed. Seizing the moment, I closed the door behind me and excused myself to the washroom, using the time to prepare mentally for our conversation. Upon returning, I found her getting ready for bed and asked about her preference for which side to sleep on. Without any particular preference myself, I left the choice to her.

As I prepared to retire for the night, she brought up the fact that Mom had sent milk for us to share. Observing her reluctance and hearing her express her dislike for milk, I decided not to insist and simply finished the milk on my own, finding her hesitation somewhat amusing given our usual custom of sharing. Settling onto the bed beside her, I found myself staring up at the ceiling, at a loss for words. Just as I was about to bid her good night, she beat me to it, and I echoed her sentiment before drifting off to sleep, almost unconsciously.