"I Do"

chapter 15

It was finally the day of Navroj.

Everything was prepared: the food, decorations, security, and guest list were all set. Akira, along with Naval, were welcoming people. Naval insisted on being with Akira, which she found endearing. He was the loveliest 12-year-old boy.

Jeh arrived hand-in-hand with Akira's best friend Mansi. Though their feelings for each other were an open secret, this was the first time they openly showed it to the world.

Akira hugged Jeh, and he hugged her back. Despite never saying it, he really loved his only sister. Akira hugged her friend Mansi and whispered in her ear, "Finally official." Mansi giggled and nodded.

Jeh shook hands with Naval and said, "Hello, young man." Naval smiled and replied, "Hello, Jeh Bhai." Mansi hugged Jeh and said, "Hello, Naval. You're such a fine young man."

While they were engrossed in their conversation, no one noticed Vasco standing behind Akira and Naval.

"Hello, Jeh," Vasco said.

Jeh noticed Vasco and replied, "Hello, Vasco. Finally, the man of the house."

Akira, Mansi, and Naval could feel the tension between the two men.

"Naval, go and mingle with the guests," Vasco said.

"Yes, Bhai," Naval replied.

"Please go ahead and enjoy the party," Vasco said.

Akira and Vasco stood together, continuing to welcome everyone. Akira appreciated that he was there, supporting her.

As the vibrant celebration of Navroj continued, the gathering of esteemed guests from the business community, diplomats, and politicians added an air of sophistication to the event.

Among the distinguished attendees, Vasco's demeanor took on a subtle yet assertive tone as his hands rested firmly on Akira's waist, a silent declaration of his protective stance towards her.

In a display of possessiveness that bordered on chivalry, Vasco's gesture conveyed a message to the world that Akira was not just his partner but a significant presence in his life, one he was determined to safeguard.

For Akira, the weight of Vasco's touch brought forth a mix of emotions.

While she appreciated his protective instinct and the unspoken declaration of their relationship, she couldn't shake off a sense of self-consciousness.

Surrounded by their guests, including her own family, Akira found herself in a new role - that of a wife.

This shift in identity, from daughter and sister to a partner, stirred unfamiliar feelings within her, marking a pivotal moment of transformation in her life.

Despite the complexities and unspoken nuances between them, Vasco's unwavering support and public display of affection towards Akira resonated deeply with her.

In the midst of the grandeur and opulence of the event, a silent understanding passed between the couple, transcending words and societal expectations.

Akira, though taken aback by the sudden shift in dynamics, found solace in Vasco's unwavering commitment and the unspoken promise of protection that his gesture symbolized.

As the event drew to a close, the underlying tensions, unspoken emotions, and newfound roles intertwined, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the evolving dynamics within their relationship.

The party continued in a whirl of elegance and significance, with Akira and Vasco navigating the uncharted territories of their partnership amidst the watchful eyes of their esteemed guests.