A Bargain Made with Frosting

Ch 38. Breaking Down Walls

Annika, determined to help Shivay heal, devised a plan. She knew forcing him to open up wouldn't work. Patience was key.

That evening, Shivay returned home from work to an unexpected sight. The dining table was adorned with an array of dishes, a stark contrast to their usual routine. He raised a surprised eyebrow at Annika, "Is there a special occasion, or something you want to talk about?"

Annika countered, "Why do you ask? Is it strange for me to cook dinner?"

"Well," Shivay admitted, gesturing to the spread, "this is enough food for two people". He pointed out, suspicion lingering in his voice.

Annika chuckled sheepishly. "Well, I was trying to make your favorite dish, but then I realized I don't actually know what your favorites are. You've never mentioned them. So, I ended up making everything you've ever said you liked while eating out."

Shivay's realization struck him – neither of them had ever shared their preferences. Dinner conversations were limited to daily updates. He debated trusting her and opening up. Rohit's words echoed in his mind, a venomous reminder of Annika potentially leaving if his actions fell short of her expectations. The thought of losing her was unbearable.

As they began their meal, the usual routine shifted. Amidst their day-to-day discussions, Shivay found himself sharing his favorite dishes, cuisines, and restaurants. Annika, pleasantly surprised by this glimpse into Shivay's world, reciprocated by revealing her own food preferences. It was a small step, but a significant one. She realized that Shivay, beneath his guarded exterior, craved connection as much as she did.

The following days were filled with a newfound sense of domesticity. Annika surprised Shivay by leaving him little notes hidden in his briefcase or arranging his favorite snacks for his evening meetings. These gestures, though small, spoke volumes. They were a silent language of care, a way of chipping away at the walls he'd built around his heart.

Shivay, in turn, began reciprocating. He started picking up groceries after work, taking note of the items she mentioned were running low. He even surprised her with a bouquet of her favorite lilies one evening, a shy smile gracing his lips as he watched her eyes light up.

One night, after a comfortable silence settled over them, Annika hesitantly blurted out a request. "Shivay," she began, "would it be possible for you to take a leave from work tomorrow? I'd like you to accompany me to my cousin's wedding."

Shivay readily agreed. It would be his first time meeting Annika's family, and a tinge of nervousness fluttered in his stomach. Then, a realization dawned on him. Despite their growing closeness, Annika had never spoken much about her family. He knew she was an orphan who had overcome significant challenges, but that was the extent of his knowledge.

Intrigued, Shivay inquired, "Annika, it's strange that you never mentioned having cousins. They weren't present at our wedding either."

Annika's smile faltered slightly, replaced by a hint of sadness. "You'll understand everything tomorrow," she replied enigmatically.

The cryptic answer only fueled Shivay's curiosity. What secrets did Annika's family hold? He was both apprehensive and eager to meet them, hoping it would shed light on the woman he was falling for.

The following day dawned bright and early. Annika bustled around the room, a nervous energy radiating from her. Shivay watched her, concern creasing his brow. He'd never seen her so on edge.

"Are you alright, Annika?" he finally asked, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.

She jumped slightly, startled from her thoughts. Then, forcing a smile, she replied, "Just a bit nervous. It's been a while since I've seen my family."

Shivay's concern deepened.  Annika had been so hesitant to share details about her family, and now this sudden nervousness. He sensed there was more to the story. However, he decided to respect her boundaries for now.

The drive to the wedding venue was filled with an unspoken tension. Annika kept glancing out the window, her fingers fiddling with the hem of her dress. Shivay tried to make conversation, but his attempts fell flat. Finally, he simply reached out and squeezed her hand in a silent gesture of support.

The wedding venue buzzed with activity as Annika, a nervous excitement fluttering in her stomach, led Shivay towards the heart of the celebration. It was a beautiful outdoor setting, adorned with vibrant flowers that mirrored the emotions swirling within her. Here she was, finally introducing Shivay to the family she'd guarded for years.

As they entered, a hush fell over the gathered guests. All eyes turned towards them, their curiosity piqued by this new presence. Annika, her hand tightly clasped in Shivay's, made her way towards a frail figure seated on a bed.

"Dadi," Annika greeted her grandmother, her voice trembling slightly. "How are you?"

The frail woman squinted at them, her memory fading with age. "I'm alright, beta," she replied softly, her voice raspy. "But who are you?"

Annika's heart ached. Time and distance had taken their toll on her grandmother. With a sigh, she explained patiently, "Dadi, it's me, Annika. Your eldest granddaughter."

A flicker of comprehension ignited Dadi's eyes. "Annika? My Anni, Harsh's daughter? You've grown so much, beta! But where have you been all this time?" Tears welled up in her eyes as she cupped Annika's face, her touch frail but filled with love. Tenderly, she pulled Annika into a hug, showering her with kisses.

Annika felt a lump form in her throat. "Dadi, I'm fine," she managed, her voice choked with emotion. "But I haven't come alone. I wanted you to meet someone special."

Gently, she gestured for Shivay to approach. "Dadi, this is Shivay, my husband."

Dadi's gaze shifted to Shivay, a warm smile creasing her wrinkled face. She beckoned him closer and embraced him tightly. "Annika, you got married!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. "May God bless you both. Shivay, beta, please take good care of my granddaughter. She has faced a lot of hardships in her young life."

Annika's smile faltered slightly. "You know, Dadi," she lied, "work commitments don't allow me to stay for long. I wanted Rita to have my gift, and I also wanted you to meet Shivay. We'll have lunch and head out after that."

Dadi nodded in understanding, the weight of years etched on her face. Leaving Shivay with Dadi for a moment, Annika set off to find her cousin Rita to present her wedding gift.