Ties of Affection

Chapter 8

Few days later the day of Rhea and Arjun's mehndi ceremony arrived, the Raizada mansion was adorned with vibrant colors, intricate decorations, and the sweet fragrance of jasmine, setting the stage for a celebration filled with love and tradition. Aahat and Kabir found themselves swept up in the excitement, eager to partake in the festivities honoring their dear friends.

The morning sun cast its golden rays upon the mansion, infusing the air with a sense of anticipation and joy. Aahat and Kabir emerged from their rooms, their hearts brimming with excitement for the day ahead.

As they descended the grand staircase, they were greeted by the sight of the courtyard transformed into a magical oasis, with colorful tents, ornate seating arrangements, and delicate flower arrangements adorning every corner. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter as guests began to arrive, their faces alight with anticipation for the celebrations to come.

Mr. and Mrs. Raizada greeted Aahat and Kabir with warm smiles, their eyes twinkling with excitement for the day's festivities. "Good morning, Aahat, Kabir," Mrs. Raizada said, her voice filled with warmth. "Are you both ready for Rhea and Arjun's mehndi ceremony?"

Aahat nodded eagerly, her eyes shining with anticipation. "Yes, I can't wait. Everything looks absolutely beautiful."

Kabir echoed her sentiments, a smile playing on his lips. "Indeed, Mrs. Raizada. It's a sight to behold."

As they conversed, the courtyard began to fill with guests, each one dressed in vibrant attire befitting the occasion. Aahat and Kabir exchanged greetings and pleasantries with friends and family, their hearts filled with joy at the prospect of celebrating the love between Rhea and Arjun.

The ceremony commenced with traditional rituals and blessings, as Rhea and Arjun sat side by side, Rhea's hands adorned with intricate henna designs symbolizing love, prosperity, and new beginnings. Aahat and Kabir looked on with reverence, their hearts touched by the beauty and significance of the moment.

Few minutes later Aahat found herself seated amidst the bustling activity, her hands adorned with intricate henna designs, each stroke a symbol of love and new beginnings. Nearby, Kabir watched with admiration when Arjun got up and got some food for Rhea. He was admiring the little things Arjun does for Rhea, which was truly beautiful, but as his gaze turns towards Aahat. He hears Aahat's stomach grumbled softly, a reminder of the delicious spread laid out nearby. Sensing her hunger, Kabir approached with a gentle smile, a plate of delectable treats in hand.

"Here, let me help you," Kabir offered, his voice soft and warm as he held out the plate to Aahat.

Aahat's heart fluttered at the gesture, touched by Kabir's thoughtfulness amidst the whirlwind of festivities. She accepted the plate with a grateful smile, her eyes meeting Kabir's with unspoken gratitude.

As Aahat tried to eat without ruining her right hand mehndi, she started struggling a lot. Noticing that Kabir chuckled and said "if you ask me to feed it won't be end of the world". To quick Aahat rolled her eyes and let Kabir feed her. Kabir made a small morse of the food and gived her a bite. To which Aahat delicately nibbled on the savory food, Kabir watched with a fond smile, his heart swelling with affection for the woman before him. He couldn't help but admire her grace and beauty, even in the simplest of moments.

"Thank you, Kabir," Aahat said softly, her voice filled with warmth as she glanced up at him. "You always seem to know exactly what I need."

Kabir's smile widened at her words, his heart skipping a beat at the sincerity in her voice. "It's my pleasure, Aahat," he replied, his gaze lingering on her as he savored the fleeting moment of connection between them.

As they shared the quiet moment of just Kabir feeding her amidst the hustle and bustle of the ceremony, Aahat felt a warmth spread through her, a feeling of comfort and belonging in Kabir's presence. In that moment, she knew that she was exactly falling for him and started to give chance to what they shared.

As the day progressed, guests indulged in the age-old tradition of applying henna designs to their hands and feet, each intricate pattern a reflection of joy and celebration. Rhea and Aahat joined in the festivities, their hands adorned with elaborate designs that spoke of love and happiness.

Amidst the celebrations, Aahat and Kabir stealing glances at each other, their conversations filled with laughter and shared memories. They found solace in each other's company, a comforting presence amidst the bustling festivities.

As the evening approached, the courtyard came alive with the sounds of music and laughter, signaling the start of the evening's celebrations. Aahat and Kabir joined the rest of the guests on the dance floor, their movements fluid and graceful as they swayed to the rhythmic beats of traditional music.

Throughout the night, guests indulged in delicious food and refreshing beverages, their spirits soaring high with the joy of celebration. Aahat and Kabir exchanged playful banter and shared laughter with friends and family, their hearts filled with happiness and contentment.

As the mehndi ceremony drew to a close, Rhea and Arjun stood side by side, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of love and happiness. Aahat and Kabir watched with joy, knowing that they had been a part of something truly magical, a celebration of love and tradition that would be cherished for years to come. And as they bid farewell to the night, they knew that their own journey was just beginning.