𝑨𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒊: 𝑨 𝒔𝒂𝒈𝒂 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆

Chapter 4: Nostalgia

Hey pookies do drop a star and comment on this chapter. It really means a lot as I'm a new writer to this platform. 🫶🏻

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Author's pov:

She stepped off the train, her heart thudding with a mix of excitement and bittersweet nostalgia as she breathed in the vibrant air of Udaipur. Her final exams were over and she looked forward to live there with her father.

The station buzzed with life, people bustling about in hurry, porters crafting pottery and calling out people to buy them, the distinct scent of spices mingling with the earthy aroma of rain-soaked earth and intricate mirror works were displayed in every store. This city was a memoir of her childhood.

"Aaravi beta, idhar hai hum!" A booming voice cut through the noise. Her father stood amongst the crowd waving at her. He was tall and imposing, his salt-and-pepper beard framed a broad smile that radiated warmth. Beside him stood her big brother, Aditya, his grin as infectious as ever.

(Aaravi, I'm here)

"Bapu Sa!" Aaravi rushed into his arms, feeling a rush of warmth and belonging envelop her.

"We've missed you so much, kiddo," Aditya said, lifting her off the ground in a playful bear hug.

"Bhai, aap kab aaye?" She asked, hugging him tightly, her eyes sparkling with joy. She hadn't seen him in years because he was busy working in Bangalore.

(When did you come brother?)

"Bas do din huye hain, kaisi hai meri pyari behna," He hugged her back, planting a soft kiss on her forehead and caressing her cheeks.

(Just day before yesterday. How are you?)

"Hum atche hai bhai," She replied with a wide smile, flaunting her pristine whites, her eyes glistening with excitement and unshed tears.

(I'm good brother)

"Chalo Haveli chalte hain, humara driver intezar kar raha hain station ke bahar," her father declared as he walked towards them.

(Let's go home. The driver is waiting outside the station)

Aaravi broke the hug and handed her suitcases to the caretaker, moving towards their car, holding her brother's hand tightly.

The drive to their haveli which was a few miles away from the station. The way to her Haveli was colorful, through narrow, winding streets lined with grand palaces and bustling markets. Aaravi soaked in every detail, her heart swelling with joy as she watched vendors peddling their vibrant wares and children darting through the crowds. The familiar sights and sounds of Udaipur wrapped around her like a comforting blanket.

The evening sky turned into vibrant hues of red and orange as the sun dipped into the horizon. The guards opened the front gate of their haveli, and they entered through it. Aaravi paused at the entrance, marveling at the magnificent archway before her. The gate was adorned with intricate carvings and glowing lanterns, casting a warm, golden light. It had been a long time since she was away from her home, and her emotions urged her to capture every detail in her mind, the epitome of her childhood.

Stepping out of the car, Aaravi felt as though she was crossing into a world steeped in the elegance and history of Udaipur's royal past. Several caretakers stood beside the nain gate of the haveli, greeting and welcoming them. The ambiance of her home was magical, it was a perfect blend of heritage and beauty. The lush green lawns with small plants stood in the heart of the Haveli, the sandstone façade of the haveli stood majestic against the vibrant shades of orange in the sky. Numerous lamps were lit up on every corner of the whole Haveli, creating a warm glow across the whole place. The lawn area was occupied by several sitting areas and where one can calmly sit and embrace the beauty of the Haveli.