36 | M A H A S H I V R A T R I

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ᑕᕼᗩᑭTᗴᖇ - XXXVI

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ᑕᕼᗩᑭTᗴᖇ - XXXVI

𝑌𝑈𝑉𝐼𝐾𝐴

A month had passed since the unsettling events in San Francisco. Life at the Agnihotri mansion had settled into a semblance of normalcy, but an undercurrent of tension still lingered. Tomorrow was Mahashivratri, one of the most significant festivals for our family. The mansion was a hive of activity, with preparations in full swing.

The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains as I woke up to the soft sounds of bells ringing in the temple room. I glanced to my side and saw Rudra already awake, engrossed in some documents. His intense focus reminded me of the barrier that still stood between us, despite the past month of living together.

“Good morning,” I said, sitting up and stretching.

“Morning,” he replied without looking up, his tone curt and distant, "We need to leave in an hour. Make sure you're ready."

I nodded and headed to the bathroom to freshen up. After a quick shower, I dressed in a simple yet elegant purple coloured anarkali suit with multicoloured handiwork, perfect for travel. I pinned the dupatta securely and opted for minimal jewellery, just a pair of earrings and my mangalsutra.

 I pinned the dupatta securely and opted for minimal jewellery, just a pair of earrings and my mangalsutra

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The day before Mahashivratri had always been special in the Agnihotri household. Traditionally, Rudra would visit one of the Jyotirlingas across the country to seek blessings. This year, being his first Mahashivratri after our marriage, we were to travel together to the Somnath Temple in Gujarat.

When I stepped out, I saw Rudra in a crisp dark blue shirt with black formal trousers, his expression as serious as ever. The sight of him always sent a thrill through me, though I wished he would open up more. There was so much about him that remained a mystery, even after a month of marriage.

Downstairs, the house was buzzing with activity. Servants were busy with last-minute preparations, and Mom was overseeing everything, ensuring we had all we needed for the journey. Dad and Dadaji were discussing something in hushed tones, their faces grave.

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