The Keeper of My Heart

Chapter 1

Under the warm glow of the afternoon sun, Rohit Sharma stood steadfast in front of the haldi mandap, meticulously overseeing the workers as they adorned the space with vibrant marigolds and silken drapes. The air was thick with anticipation, for it was not just any wedding-it was his beloved sister's union with her long-time beau, Karthik Bedi. Ritika, noticing the strain in Rohit's eyes, approached with a gentle concern, "Ro, take a moment to breathe." But Rohit, ever the devoted brother, replied with a determined shake of his head, "I'll find my rest only when Shub arrives. He's the cornerstone of my trust in this chaos."

As if summoned by the sheer force of Rohit's will, Shubman Gill appeared on the horizon, striding towards the mandap with purpose. His presence was like a balm to Rohit's frayed nerves. Shubman, Rohit's favorite junior, exuded a calmness that belied his years, his airpods momentarily forgotten as he engaged with the caterers in earnest discussion.

Disconnecting the call with a swift tap, Shubman turned to Rohit, "Bhai, the feast is set. What more do you need of me?" Rohit, with a grateful nod, said, "Stay your ground here. I must steal a moment with Aditi before the rituals commence."

Aditi, the bride, the heart of the day's joy, awaited in her chamber of preparation. As Rohit and Ritika made their way to her, Sara Tendulkar, a vision of youthful exuberance, enveloped Shubman in a surprise embrace from behind, her voice playful, "Guess who?"

With a knowing smile, Shubman responded, "Ah, it can only be my lovely girlfriend, Sara Tendulkar." Her laughter rang out, clear and bright, as she stepped into view, wrapping him in an embrace that spoke of deep affection. "Papa will join us shortly," she whispered, "Arjun and I couldn't wait to be part of the festivities."

Meanwhile, Rohit entered Aditi's sanctuary, where she sat, a picture of bridal elegance. Adorned in a lehenga of vivid yellow, she was a vision of regal beauty. The fabric cascaded around her like a sunlit waterfall, pooling at her feet in a sea of golden silk. The embroidery on her lehenga was a testament to the artistry of tradition-floral and paisley motifs danced across the fabric, each stitch a melody of pink, green, blue, and white, harmonizing against the backdrop of yellow. Her dupatta, a gossamer veil, draped over her arm, completing the ensemble with grace.

Her adornments were no less exquisite-a symphony of floral bangles, a choker that whispered tales of ancient royalty, and a maangtika that crowned her with the stars' own light. Her hair, woven into a mermaid braid, was a cascade of ebony waves, each strand telling a story of the journey that led her here.

"Looking very pretty, Aditi," Rohit's voice was soft, tinged with the pride of a brother. Her smile, radiant and warm, lit up the room, "Thank you, bhaiyya. Mumma and papa echoed your thoughts."

Ritika's affirmation was a gentle murmur, "That's the truth, Aditi." Yet, amidst the compliments, a shadow of concern crossed Aditi's features, "Why aren't you with the decorators, bhaiyya?"

Rohit's response came with a fond chuckle, "Because my chote bhai, Shubman, has taken the helm. He's the captain of that ship now." Aditi's nod was thoughtful; her relationship with Shubman was one of respectful distance-she knew him as the trusted colleague of her brother, nothing less, nothing more.

The narrative then unfolds to the haldi ceremony, a riot of laughter and golden hues, where family and friends come together to bless the couple with happiness and prosperity. Shubman, though hesitant at first, is coaxed by Rohit to join in the ritual, marking the bride and groom with the auspicious turmeric paste.

As the ceremony progresses, the camaraderie among the guests is palpable, with playful banter and heartfelt congratulations filling the air. Shubman, ever the diligent overseer, ensures that every detail is perfect, even as he's drawn into the celebration by his friends, reminding him that today is a day for joy, not just responsibilities.

In the midst of the bustling activity, Shubman stood by the lunch arrangements, his eyes scanning over the setup with a meticulous gaze. Rohit's voice, firm yet tinged with brotherly concern, broke through the hum of voices, "Shub, ensure those mischievous bandars are seated separately. And once you're done, join Sara and the rest for lunch."

With a weary nod, Shubman confirmed everything was in place. His body ached for rest, a silent testament to his unwavering dedication. Seeking solace, he found a chair and allowed himself a moment of respite, his head finding comfort on Ishan's supportive shoulder.

From the break of dawn at 4:00 am, he had been the silent sentinel, ensuring every detail was attended to with precision. The weight of responsibility rested heavily on his shoulders, and as the hours ticked by, fatigue began to weave its tendrils around him.

Sara, ever attentive, approached with a plate brimming with delicacies, her hands offering sustenance to her exhausted partner. As she fed him, a serene calm enveloped Shubman, and he surrendered to the exhaustion, his head resting back against Ishan's shoulder, his consciousness slipping into the sweet embrace of sleep.

The world faded away, the sounds of celebration a distant echo, until Rohit's voice pierced the veil of slumber, "SHUB? SHUBMAN?" Startled awake, Shubman's hand instinctively reached up to rub the sleep from his eyes, his voice groggy but ready, "Yes, bhai?"

Rohit, with a hint of amusement and affection, chided, "You seem worn out, my friend. Oi, Ishan, come here." Ishan, roused from his role as a makeshift pillow, followed Rohit, his tongue playfully poking out at the Indian Cricket Team members who couldn't help but smirk at the scene.

In this tapestry of emotions and events, the narrative weaves through the exhaustion of duty, the warmth of companionship, and the light-heartedness that underpins the bonds of friendship and love. It's a story that unfolds in the quiet moments amidst the grandeur of celebration, where even the guardians of the day's joy find comfort and camaraderie in each other's presence.