Woven Destinies~1

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This story is set one year after the Manoramma track, following the resolution of misunderstandings between Anirudh and Bondita. After 7 years in London for her further studies, the narrative begins as Bondita returns home.

Age details:
Bondita anirudh roy choudhary : 21
Anirudh roy choudhary : 30

Readers are welcome to modify the ages of Anirudh and Bondita to suit their preferences.
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AUTHOR'S POV

~Bondita's return~


In 1922, a young woman in her early twenties, dressed in a delicate pink georgette salwar, stepped down from the grand luxury liner RMS Viceroy of India onto the bustling port of Kolkata. She was unmistakably Bondita, her face lit with an eager smile that belied the traces of weariness in her eyes—a testament to the long and challenging 26-day voyage.

Around her, Kolkata thrummed with life—the air thick with the aroma of spices and the clamor of voices in myriad languages. As she breathed in the city's energy, Bondita stood at the precipice of a new chapter in her life. The colonial architecture and bustling streets painted a tapestry of opportunity and uncertainty before her, beckoning her forward into its vibrant embrace.

Bondita's barrister course had finally come to an end. After completing her internship two months ahead of schedule, she found herself with an unexpected five-month hiatus before graduation. Returning to India after three years abroad, her heart overflowed with joy.

With her suitcase in tow, Bondita strolled towards the port entrance, her eyes scanning the bustling scene for an auto rickshaw.

Despite the early morning hour, the sun's rays already bore down intensely as Bondita spotted an auto rickshaw nearby. Politely, she requested a ride to the railway station, and the driver nodded in agreement. As they traversed the familiar streets, Bondita couldn't help but drift into thoughts of her family's reaction upon her surprise return.

Seven years in London had shaped her profoundly. Following the tumultuous events surrounding Anirudh's second marriage, Bondita's academic prowess had surged, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Yet, amidst her scholarly pursuits, she never neglected her happiness, relishing moments exploring London with her close circle of friends.

She boarded the train bound for the station near Tulsipur, where the Roy Choudhary Haveli, her family home, awaited in walking distance. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels seemed to stretch time itself, each passing moment filled with anticipation. By the time the train came to a halt, it was nearly 7 am, and Bondita trembled with excitement.

Stepping onto the platform, she scanned her surroundings, momentarily unsure if this was indeed Tulsipur. The changes over the past four years had transformed the familiar into something new. Gathering her courage, she approached a nearby elderly lady and inquired, "Kaki, could you please tell me where the Roy Choudhary Haveli is?"

The woman's gaze traveled from Bondita's head to toe before kindly providing directions. Bondita expressed her gratitude and set off confidently towards her destination. As she neared the familiar gates of the haveli, a wave of warmth enveloped her. It wasn't just a place; it was home. A heartfelt smile graced her lips, marking the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter back where she belonged.

Bondita stood near the entrance door, emotionally gazing at her childhood home when a lady approached and inquired, "Excuse me, who are you?" Before Bondita could respond, the woman continued with a hint of excitement, "Oh, are you here to meet Barrister Babu like all the other ladies?"

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