"Grow old along with me; the best is yet to be."
Ruhanika
I was ready for my Haldi ceremony, draped in a vibrant yellow lehenga crafted from the finest Chanderi silk. The delicate mirror bead embroidery on the waistband, intricate gota patti trims, and the exquisite dabka-embroidered border made it a masterpiece. Every detail of my attire radiated elegance and charm. I looked and felt beautiful, yet my nerves betrayed me—I was shivering slightly from the overwhelming excitement and anxiety.
Despite the comforting words from Janki Amma and Maya, my heart refused to settle. Thoughts raced through my mind as I awaited the ceremony's start, trying to compose myself. Just then, the attendee entered, informing me someone had come to meet me. Curious, I nodded and instructed her to send the visitor inside.
The soft sound of a feminine voice broke the silence, drawing my attention. "So this was going on behind my back, and no one informed me? I thought we were friends," the voice teased, carrying a hint of playful reproach.
I turned toward the voice and froze in surprise. Standing there was Princess Nandita, looking regal yet effortlessly beautiful in a stunning red lehenga adorned with intricate embroidery and heavy jewelry that glimmered with every move. Her expression was a mix of mock annoyance and endearing cuteness as she tried to appear intimidating, but her adorable frown only made her look sweeter.
Unable to suppress my joy, I beamed at her and rushed forward. "Princess!" I exclaimed, enveloping her in a tight hug, which she warmly reciprocated.
After we parted, I gestured for her to sit on the couch beside me. We sank into the cushions, taking a moment to look at each other, smiles lighting our faces.
"I’m mad at you," she began, her tone laced with mock hurt. "You didn’t even write me a letter. I wouldn’t have known about your wedding if Bhaisa hadn’t invited us! I really thought we were friends," she added, her voice softening with disappointment.
Guilt washed over me as I reached for her hands. "Princess, it’s not like that," I explained earnestly. "I sincerely apologize if I upset you. Everything happened so fast—I barely had time to process it all. Please forgive me, my dear princess." I looked at her with exaggerated puppy eyes, and her frown melted into a smile.
"Alright, I’ll forgive you, but only if you call me Nandita from now on," she said, her playful demand making me laugh.
"As my Nandita says," I replied with a grin, earning a broad smile from her.
Her face lit up as she spoke, "Bhaisa has chosen the best girl for himself. I’m so happy for him—and for you. It’s still sinking in that you’ll soon be my Bhabhi Maa! Can I call you that?"
I chuckled softly at her excitement. "You can call me anything you want, Nandita," I replied, patting her head affectionately.
She nodded eagerly, then asked, "Are you happy?"
Her question made my heart swell, and I smiled warmly. "Yes, Nandita, I am happy. Are you?"
She grinned shyly, her cheeks tinged with a soft blush. "Yes, Bhabhi Maa, I’m content. You were right when you told me to stay true to myself. They all adore me and treat me with so much kindness."
"And your husband? Is he treating you well?" I inquired, my tone laced with genuine concern.
Her blush deepened, and she giggled like a schoolgirl. "He’s the best. He treats me like a delicate glass doll and always takes care of me," she admitted bashfully.
I couldn’t help but tease her. "It seems like someone is falling in love," I remarked, pinching her flushed cheeks. She giggled again, giving me a shy smile.
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Beyond Destiny ~ A Saga Of Timeless Love
Random"We shouldn't play with fire, Rooh," He spoke near my ears, pecking my jawline. I was breathing erratically unable to encompass my perturbation. "What if I want to play with it?" I said, my voice sensual, subduing my thudding heart. His hand went t...
