The Forbidden Marriage

64• चतुःषष्टिः

"Satyam shivam sundaram."

Trishul's eyes fluttered open, drawn from the depths of sleep by a melodious voice, rich and soothing, filling the room with its divine cadence. The first light of the morning sun streamed through the open window, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. As he inhaled deeply, the fragrant scent of rose incense greeted his senses, mingling with the soft hum of the song.

He smiled blissfully and sat up, his eyes immediately drawn to the heavenly figure before him. Minakshi stood gracefully at the center of the room, draped in a saree of deep red and black, the rich colors accentuating her fair complexion. The saree clung to her slender frame, the fabric shimmering gently with her movements. Her long, ebony hair, still wet from her morning bath, was wrapped in a towel that rested on her shoulders, creating an almost ethereal halo around her head.

She moved with a gentle, rhythmic grace, swaying the incense burner slowly from side to side, the tendrils of smoke curling in the air and filling the room with a sacred aura. Her delicate fingers held the burner with a practiced ease, her movements fluid and serene. As she sang, her eyes were closed, lost in the devotion of her song, her full lips curving into a soft smile with each verse.

"Ishwar sattya hai, sattya hi Shiv hai..."

Her voice was a harmonious blend of strength and tenderness, each note resonating with an inner peace that seemed to cleanse the room of its former darkness and negativity. The once oppressive space now felt vibrant and alive, infused with a sense of renewal and hope.

Trishul watched in total awe, captivated by Minakshi's radiant presence and the positivity that emanated from her. The sunlight caught the faint sheen of moisture on her skin, highlighting the delicate curve of her neck and the soft lines of her collarbone. The red bindi on her forehead stood out vividly against her fair skin, drawing attention to her large, expressive eyes that sparkled with an inner light.

As she completed her ritual, she opened her eyes and met Trishul's gaze. Her smile widened, a look of pure love and devotion shining through. In that moment, Trishul felt as though he were witnessing a divine vision, a goddess who had brought light and life back into his world.

"You are awake?" Minakshi asked softly, her voice carrying the same tender melody that had filled the room moments before.

Trishul nodded. He felt a small figure snuggling into him and glanced down to find Damru hugging his thighs, fast asleep. The sight made his heart flutter, and tears began to spill down his cheeks.

Noticing his tears, Minakshi walked towards him with a look of concern. "Where does it hurt?" she asked, her worry evident.

He shook his head and smiled through his tears. "It's the tears of happiness, Minakshi," he said, his voice choked with emotion.

Minakshi's expression softened, though a trace of sadness lingered in her eyes. Trishul reached out, holding her wrist gently, and looked directly into her eyes. "Minakshi? Have I died in the car accident and come to heaven? Is this heaven?" His voice was serious, the question filled with genuine wonder.

Minakshi gulped, her throat tightening with emotion. She sighed softly. "No. You are still living and breathing. And this heaven is permanent," she said, her words carrying a promise that filled the room with warmth.

He looked at her, shocked and hopeful. "Permanent?" he echoed, his voice a mixture of disbelief and longing.

Minakshi smiled softly, her eyes deep with emotion. "Yes. I have decided that we should stay here forever as a family. I am not going to leave you," she said, her voice steady with determination.