"I Do"

chapter 17

It was 6:30 in the morning, and Akira found herself awake, reluctant to leave the bed after the previous night's tumultuous encounter with her husband. She felt a lingering discomfort, especially in her crotch area.

Despite her reluctance, she knew she couldn't linger in bed; it was a rule instilled by her mother to rise once awake and not return until nightfall.

Reluctantly, she rose from the bed, made her way to the restroom to freshen up, and then stepped outside her room. She poured water into a glass, walked to the nearest window, closed her eyes, and poured the water outside while gazing at the sun, whispering a quiet prayer,

"Khshnaothra Ahurahe Mazdao"(Pleased be the Lord (through this
prayer of mine)!)!

As she turned, she noticed Anita, one of the cooks, already present.

Anita greeted her, "Good morning Bhabhi." Akira returned the greeting, "Good morning Anita, you're on time today. Let's prepare breakfast together."

While Akira was cooking and Anita was cutting vegetables, a knock on the kitchen door interrupted their routine. It was Advi, Vasco's 14-year-old half-brother.

Advi appeared shy and uncomfortable in Akira's presence due to their limited interactions.

Sensing his unease, Akira took the initiative to greet him first.

Akira: "Good morning Advi, would you like something to eat?"

Advi, though hesitant, reciprocated the greeting, "Good morning Bhabhi." He explained that his school had organized a trip to Himachal Pradesh and sought permission from his father, who was preoccupied.

Advi was tasked with seeking Akira's approval, presenting her with the necessary NOC letter for her signature.

Akira accepted the letter, reading it carefully.

She inquired about the trip details, the accompanying teachers, and the availability of medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Advi, initially surprised by the depth of her concern, felt a sense of care and protection from Akira, a new experience for him.

After Advi provided satisfactory answers and shared the teachers' contact information, Akira signed the papers. She also shared her contact number with Advi, offering assistance in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Akira's connections in Himachal Pradesh, stemming from her prominent family background, provided a sense of security amidst the uncertainties.

Vasco awoke to the familiar sounds of the bustling activity outside his room, a stark contrast to the quietude he once cherished. Since his marriage to Akira, the once serene environment had transformed into a vibrant and organized space. Unsure if he truly appreciated this change, Vasco found himself more attuned to the details of his surroundings - the people, the ambiance, the furniture - all seemed to demand his attention.

Feeling a heightened sense of awareness, Vasco pondered whether this newfound consciousness was a common sentiment experienced by those who had recently tied the knot. As he donned his shirt and night trousers, preparing to face the day, he ventured outside his room. It was then that he noticed his younger brother, Advi, standing there with a paper in hand, a radiant smile adorning his youthful face.

Advi, being of a much smaller stature compared to Vasco's imposing figure, seemed momentarily intimidated. Their interactions had always been limited, and Vasco had never been one for delicate exchanges, especially with his siblings.

Yet, despite their differences, there was an unspoken respect that lingered between them. Advi, in his youthful admiration, looked up to Vasco for his commanding presence and astute business acumen. The mere thought of Vasco's dominance was enough to instill a sense of caution in those around him, including his own brothers.

Akira, observing the interaction between Vasco and Advi, decided to intervene. She informed Vasco that Advi had received permission to go on a school picnic to Himachal Pradesh but needed a signature on the No Objection Certificate (NOC) since their father was occupied. With a simple nod in response, Vasco acknowledged the information after exchanging morning greetings with Akira. Subsequently, Advi, filled with excitement for his upcoming adventure, bid Vasco a good morning and headed off to school, leaving Vasco to contemplate the subtle dynamics at play within their family.

Akira served breakfast and tea to Vasco and sat down with him. She could feel his intense gaze, something that always made her feel a bit intimidated. Gathering her courage, she spoke up, "Don't you think we should spend more time together? Whenever we have sex, I feel lost because I barely know you. You're my husband and you have every right, but I still want us to know each other well before having a healthy sexual relationship."

Vasco paused, processing her words. When the meaning of her words fully sank in, he felt a surge of anger.

He stood abruptly from his seat and, in a fit of rage, slapped Akira hard.

The room fell silent, the echo of the slap lingering in the air.

Akira's cheek stung, and tears welled up in her eyes. She hadn't anticipated such a violent reaction. Vasco, now breathing heavily, realized the severity of his action but couldn't take it back. The moment was a stark reminder of the challenges they faced in their relationship.