Shiddat

Chapter 14

The following morning, the Rathore mansion was alive with a palpable sense of energy and purpose. The usually serene living room had transformed into a hub of activity, with family members bustling around, their voices blending into a symphony of excited chatter. Servants scurried in and out, carrying trays of refreshments, while ladies sat in clusters, jotting down lists and reviewing preparations with fervor. The air was thick with anticipation, every corner of the room echoing the urgency of the approaching event.

Arjun, standing at the top of the grand staircase, observed the commotion below with puzzled expression. His brow furrowed as he took in the scene, his usual calm exterior giving way to curiosity. The sudden shift in the household's atmosphere was unusual. He made his way down the stairs, his steps deliberate, as he wove through the sea of activity.

He found his mother in the center of it all, her presence commanding yet gentle as she gave instructions to the staff, her hands delicately arranging a tray filled with vibrant silk cloths and shimmering jewelry. Nearby, several more ornate trays were laid out, each meticulously prepared for the shagun-an offering that symbolized the Rathore family's respect and goodwill.

On one tray, vibrant, handwoven silk sarees in deep hues of red, gold, and maroon were neatly folded, their luxurious fabric shimmering under the soft lighting. Another tray showcased an array of exquisite jewelry-delicate gold bangles, intricately designed necklaces, and sparkling diamond earrings, all nestled on rich velvet cushions, ready to adorn the bride. A third tray held an assortment of traditional sweets, artfully arranged in a burst of color and variety. There were laddoos, barfis, and kaju katlis, each piece a work of art, dusted with edible silver leaf, their sweet fragrance mingling with the scent of fresh roses and jasmine petals scattered over the trays.

Beside these treasures, a large, intricately carved silver thali was prepared with all the necessary items for the wedding rituals-sandalwood paste, kumkum, rice grains, and a small silver diya, ready to be lit as an auspicious offering. At the center of this grand display sat a beautifully wrapped gift box containing an elegant designer saree meant for Ananya, along with a personalized note from Sunita, her mother-in-law, welcoming her into the Rathore family. Every item was chosen with care, reflecting the Rathores' deep respect for tradition and their desire to honor Ananya and her family with the finest offerings.

"Mom," Arjun began, his voice cutting through the noise. He approached her with an inquisitive expression, glancing around at the organized chaos. "What's going on? Why's everyone in such a rush?"

His mother, still holding a delicate piece of jewelry in her hand, turned to face him. Her eyes, warm and brimming with both joy and determination, met his. She smiled, the kind that spoke of years of wisdom and understanding, a mother's smile that could soothe any storm.

"Arjun, today is a big day," she explained, her voice laced with excitement. "We are sending the shagun to Ananya's house. There's only a week left until the wedding, and there's so much that needs to be done."

Arjun blinked, momentarily stunned, his usually composed demeanor faltering. The weight of her words hit him like a sudden gust of wind, leaving him momentarily speechless. The wedding. His wedding. A week. He hadn't realized just how imminent it all was. The steady march of time, which he had been content to ignore, had now rushed upon him with all its urgency.

His gaze shifted around the room once more, the reality of the situation sinking in. The trays of gifts, the meticulous lists, the flurry of preparations-it all pointed to one undeniable truth: his life was about to change, and fast. His mother, sensing his inner turmoil, reached out and gently placed a hand on his arm.

"Don't worry, Arjun," she said softly, her voice reassuring. "Everything is falling into place. You just have to trust the process."

Arjun nodded slowly, his mind still whirling with a mix of emotions-nervousness, uncertainty. Just then, Rohan approached, dressed sharply for the office. "Ready for another day of managing crises, big brother?" he teased lightly.