Love Will Find A Way

Chapter-54: Launch Day

As the evening drew to a close, the guests began to trickle out, leaving only the family members behind. The atmosphere was still warm and filled with the residual excitement of the celebration.

Manik looked around and said, "I think it's time we all head back home. It's been a long day."

Cabir stepped forward with a mischievous grin. "Actually, you and Nandini aren't going back home tonight."

Manik raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Navya smiled, "We've booked a room for you here at the hotel. It's a little surprise from all of us."

Both Manik and Nandini were takenback. "But... we're not newly married. What's the need for it?" Manik protested, feeling a mix of embarrassment and confusion.

Abhimanyu stepped forward; his expression sincere. "You both deserve some alone time, to cherish this moment and each other."

Manik and Nandini continued to deny the arrangement, feeling increasingly awkward. "It's not necessary," Nandini added, her cheeks flushed.

Dadi, who had been quietly observing, spoke up with a tone of finality. "You two are staying here tonight, and that's final."

Seeing that there was no room for argument, Manik and Nandini reluctantly agreed. The family handed them the keys to their room with knowing smiles. Alia added, "Don't worry, we already placed your stuff in the room."

With a mixture of nerves and reluctance, Manik and Nandini made their way to their designated room. As they opened the door and stepped inside, they were greeted with a sight that made them freeze in their tracks.

The room was decorated like it was their wedding night-rose petals on the bed, dim romantic lighting, and soft music playing in the background.

Both of them felt a wave of embarrassment and awkwardness wash over them. "This is... a lot," Manik muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.

Nandini quickly grabbed her clothes from the couch and made her way to the bathroom, eager to escape the uncomfortable situation for a moment.

Once inside, she took a deep breath and changed into her nightwear, trying to calm her racing heart. When she emerged, Manik nodded and took his turn to change.

As he disappeared into the bathroom, Nandini lay on the bed and closed her eyes, trying to avoid further interaction. She wasn't sleeping but wanted to create a semblance of peace and avoid the awkwardness.

Manik came out of the bathroom a few minutes later, dressed in comfortable clothes. He glanced at the bed and saw Nandini lying with her eyes closed.

Assuming she was asleep, he moved quietly, not wanting to disturb her. He lay down beside her, careful not to disturb her, and then gently placed his hand on her belly.

Nandini's breath hitched at the unexpected touch. She wasn't asleep; she was just lying there with her eyes closed, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions from the day. When she felt his hand, her heart raced, but she stayed still, not wanting to break the moment.

Manik, thinking she was asleep, began to speak softly to their baby. "Hey, little one. Today was a big day for your mom and me. We had a wonderful celebration for our anniversary. Everyone was so happy, and your mom looked beautiful."

Nandini listened, her heart swelling with emotions. She was shocked to realize that he talked to the baby every day, something she had longed to see. Her eyes filled with tears as she heard his gentle words.

"Your mom has been amazing," Manik continued, his voice filled with tenderness. "She has been so strong, and I know I haven't been the best husband. But I promise, I'm trying. I want to be the best father for you."