𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐟𝐞

30 TANGLED IN THE UNEXPECTED.

TARGET: 10 VOTES & 7 COMMENTS.

THIRD PERSON POV:

"Avni, what are you doing? Don’t you know how to behave in front of your elders?"

Avni’s eyes jerk open at the sharp voice. She looks up to see her Taiji glaring at her, her eyes filled with disapproval. Avni knows what awaits her the moment she steps inside the house an avalanche of taunts and criticisms.

"Aunty, we don’t mind Avu resting her head on Amar Bhai’s shoulder. She must be tired with all this heavy jewelry and lehenga". Aarohi says, attempting to defuse the tension.

"Taiji, Avni is my fiancée now, and I don’t mind if she rests her head on my shoulder. It’s my duty to cherish her and spoil her with everything I have". Amar responds politely, gently placing Avni’s head back on his shoulder.

Soon, the staff starts serving food. Avni sits up straight, hoping Amar will feed her, but he begins eating without a second glance. She’s about to say something when a single glare from Taiji silences her.

"Avu, why aren’t you eating anything?" Aarohi asks, drawing everyone’s attention.

Avni considers telling the truth, but before she can respond, Anya interjects, "Aarohi, she already had dinner."

Avni looks at Anya, wide-eyed. Why is she lying? Avni hasn’t eaten anything since yesterday. Confused but silent, she endures more of Buaji's taunts. This time, however, Amar speaks up in her defense.

After dinner, they all leave. Back home, Dadi slaps Avni, accusing her of breaking a ritual. But the real truth remains she’s starving. Ignoring the sting of both the slap and the hunger, she retreats to her room, burying herself in her designs and studies. Her exams are approaching fast.

The next day passes without a meal. In the afternoon, Amar picks her up from college, saying he wants to spend time with her. They have lunch together, her first proper meal in days before heading out to select wedding attire. By evening, they return home.

As soon as Taiji sees her, she sneers, "Look who’s finally here, Maa."

"Please, Taiji, don’t say anything. Amar is here, and I don’t want him to think poorly of my family". Avni says politely, her voice steady despite the lump in her throat.

Taiji merely nods, holding back for now.

Amar greets everyone, touching their feet respectfully. Avni’s father, Tauji, and her brother have just returned from the office.

"Avni, you didn’t tell us Amar was coming with you". Dadi remarks.

"I didn’t know either, Dadi. It was a surprise for me too". Avni replies with a polite smile.

"Dadi, I wanted to surprise you all. Plus, we need your help selecting Avni’s wedding dress". Amar adds cheerfully.

"Of course, but let’s have dinner first". Dadi says.

After dinner, the family gathers in the hall to discuss the wedding attire. No one asks for Avni’s opinion, but she remains silent, letting them make decisions for her. She heads to the kitchen to prepare tea for everyone.