"Ishq hai."
"Kisse?"
"Apni rani sahiba se."
╰─➤ 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐈𝐊𝐀 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐊𝐔𝐑.
➥ An independent and spirited event designer, she carries the weight of past traumas while striving for success in her career. Guarded by walls built from pas...
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As I buttoned my shirt, leaving the top one open, I took a final glance in the mirror. My eyes lingered on my reflection, but my mind was elsewhere - with Advika ji.
I opened a drawer, revealing a blue velvet box containing her adorable anklet. My heart skipped a beat as I gazed at it. I gently touched the shiny material, bringing it to my lips, and kissed it tenderly. I cherished it, just as I cherished her.
After putting it back, I headed downstairs, where the ladies were busy preparing for the wedding.
"Maa," I spoke gently, drawing their attention towards me. I sat down, and Chachi spoke up. "Yuvraj, here you came. We were talking about the departure anyway."
It had been three days since I saw Advika ji's face, three long days since we properly talked. The distance was unbearable, but I indulged myself in work to be free for the wedding preparations and, most importantly, her.
"Tomorrow, you will leave. Make sure everything is going smooth. We will come the day after tomorrow," Dadi explained. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough; I longed to see her again.
Papa entered the lawn, talking on the phone. "Yes, Mr. Mehra, we will really appreciate your presence at the wedding, thank you so much."
He hung up the call and informed us, "Kanika, we have to leave."
Maa nodded and stood up to leave. "Yuvraj, Shravani is still sleeping. Please make sure she eats properly. She has been very careless about her meals."
I sighed and stood up too, making my way to the living area.
A corner was filled with wrapped boxes, and a few baskets of fresh fruits and beverages.
As I entered the lobby, I was immediately enveloped in the vibrant atmosphere of our household, buzzing with wedding preparations. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of traditional sweets.
Relatives and helpers scurried about, busy with last-minute tasks. I weaved through the chaos, exchanging warm smiles and nods with familiar faces.
I headed up the stairs, the sound of laughter and chatter growing fainter. The hallway was adorned with intricate rangoli designs and colorful decorations.
I knocked softly on Shravani's door. "Vaani?" I asked.
"Come in," I heard a slight whine. I pushed the door open and peeked inside to see my baby sister sleeping inside the duvets.
I chuckled, stepping in and walking towards the bed. "Vaani, wake up."
She slowly opened her eyes and started throwing tantrums. "I want to sleep, and you want me to wake up. But this is my life, my bedroom, my sheets, where I'm in charge, so I will like to sleep only."
My palm found its way to her head, caressing softly through her hair. "I'm leaving tomorrow for the haveli," I spoke, making her open her eyes again and sit up abruptly.
