A Bargain Made with Frosting

Ch. 39 An Omen of Good Fortune

Annika found Rita amidst the joyous chaos of the wedding, a radiant smile illuminating her face. They embraced tightly, catching up on lost years in a flurry of whispered secrets and shared laughter. As Annika presented her wedding gift, a beautifully embroidered silk saree, her eyes welled up.

"Annika, you came," Rita whispered, squeezing her hand. "I can't believe it. It's been so long."

Annika forced a smile, her guilt gnawing at her. "I wouldn't miss it for the world, Ri. You look stunning!" As they chatted, catching up on lost time, Annika couldn't shake off the growing unease within her.

After offering their congratulations and goodbyes to Rita, Annika returned to find Shivay and Dadi locked in a surprisingly animated conversation. Despite her age, Dadi possessed a sharp wit, and Shivay, typically reserved, seemed to be thoroughly enjoying her company. A wave of relief washed over Annika. Perhaps this visit wouldn't be a complete disaster after all.

"Shivay," she announced, "let's grab some lunch before we head back."

Before Shivay could rise from the bed, a powerful yank sent Annika stumbling backward. A middle-aged woman, her face contorted in fury, spun Annika around to face her. "What are you doing here?" the woman screeched. "Didn't I tell you to never set foot in this house again? Do you think you can ruin my daughter's wedding day?"

Annika stammered, "Aunty, it's not like that. I just came to see Dadi and Rita…"

Dadi, her voice frail but firm, interjected, "Sudha, stop shouting at Anni. It's been years since she's been here."

Sudha, however, remained unmoved. "You know how unlucky she is, Mummyji! I won't have her bad luck tainting my house or my daughter's celebration. Because of you, I've faced nothing but humiliation! Get out!"

Sudha's grip tightened around Annika's wrist, dragging her towards the exit. Suddenly, the motion stopped. Annika felt a strong hand clasp hers, and Shivay, his expression a mask of cold fury, stepped forward.

"Let go of my wife," he commanded, his voice low and dangerous.

Sudha, taken aback by his fierce demeanor, released Annika's hand instantly. Shivay pulled Annika close, his anger a palpable force in the room.

"Are you alright?" he asked, his voice softer now, but his eyes still blazing with defiance.

Annika, shaken but determined, simply nodded. Shivay's protectiveness sent a warmth through her. It was the first time anyone had stood up for her in this house.

"We're leaving," Shivay declared, his voice leaving no room for argument. "There's no point staying where we're not welcome."

He turned to Dadi, his expression softening. "Don't worry, Dadi. From now on, no one will make Annika cry again. I promise to take good care of her." With that, he bent down slightly, allowing Dadi to place her hand on his head in blessing.

Sudha, witnessing the entire scene, sputtered with a mix of anger and confusion. "Who are you to order me around? You think you know her? She'll make your life a living hell, just like she's done to ours!"

Shivay met her gaze unflinchingly. "You're wrong," he countered. "She's made my life heaven."

With that final, powerful statement, Shivay turned and strode out of the house, Annika by his side.  For the first time in a long time, a genuine smile graced her lips. It was the first time she'd seen someone stand up for her, defend her, and claim her with such conviction. It was a feeling both exhilarating and comforting.

The walk back to their car was filled with a comfortable silence. Annika, still shaken but deeply touched by Shivay's protectiveness, stole glances at him. His jaw was set in a determined line, but she saw a flicker of concern in his eyes.

"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Annika nodded, reaching for his hand and squeezing it tightly. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Thank you for standing up for me."

Shivay squeezed her hand back, his touch a source of comfort and strength. "You don't need to thank me, Annika. You deserve to be treated with respect."

The journey back was heavy with unspoken emotions. Annika stared out the window, replaying the events of the day. Shivay's protectiveness warmed her, but the sting of her aunt's words lingered.

Shivay suddenly pulled the car over to the side of the road, leaving Annika momentarily startled. He hopped out without explanation, disappearing for a few brief minutes. Upon his return, he held a small tube of ointment in his hand.

"Here, Annika," he offered it to her, his concern etched on his face.

Annika's brow furrowed in confusion. "What's this for?"

Shivay gestured towards her hand. It was then she noticed a small, irritated mark left by her bracelet. The commotion of the day must have masked the discomfort. Taking the ointment, she applied it with a grateful nod towards Shivay.

With a thoughtful expression, Shivay restarted the car and steered them towards a hotel. Lunch at the wedding venue had been skipped, and their stomachs were grumbling.

While waiting for their food, Shivay broke the silence. "Annika," he began, "why would you go somewhere you're unwelcome?"

Annika met his gaze with a sad smile. "It was my last chance to see my grandmother," she explained. "Her health is failing, Shivay. I wanted her to meet you, to know I'm happy, so she could live out her remaining days in peace."

Shivay's heart ached. "What if I can't keep you happy, Annika?" he ventured.

Annika's reply was resolute."Then, like my aunt says, I'll consider myself a bad omen and simply live the life God has given me. I'm a strong woman, you know."

Touched by her strength, Shivay reassured her, "Don't worry, Annika. You're no bad omen, at least not for me. You've brought me nothing but good fortune, increased profits even."

Annika pretended to adjust a non-existent collar and replied playfully "You're right, Mr. Oberoi. My presence has certainly boosted your profits. A gift is in order, wouldn't you say?"

"And what would Mrs. Oberoi desire as a gift?" Shivay teased back.

"Since you're on leave and we have free time," Annika declared, "today will be spent entirely on Annika's terms!"

Shivay agreed, though a hint of uncertainty flickered in his eyes. He couldn't predict where this Annika-led day would take him.