INNOCENCE : An Innocent Lovestory

Chapter : 5

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Ananya stood in front of the ornate mirror, adorned in a resplendent bridal lehenga, its rich red fabric swirling around her. She looked every bit the picture of tradition and opulence, yet her mind was far from the auspicious occasion that was unfolding around her. Instead of feeling the customary excitement and anticipation that a bride typically experiences on her wedding day, Ananya was battling a torrent of conflicting emotions.

Her thoughts swirled in turmoil, focusing on the man she was about to marry—Rihaan Mehra. His simplicity and genuine warmth had drawn her in, but now, as she sat in solitude before the ceremony, doubts gnawed at her. Could she truly make him happy? Could she provide the love and care he deserved? Ananya, known for her steely demeanor as the CEO of a successful conglomerate, found herself questioning her ability to fulfill the emotional needs of a man who saw the world with untainted wonder.

Her reverie was interrupted by a sharp knock on the door. Ananya's mother entered the room without waiting for a response. "Ananya, come quickly! It's time," her mother commanded, her tone as cold as the diamond necklace that adorned her neck. Ananya composed herself, feeling overwhelmed by the realization that even on this day, surrounded by family, she felt like an orphan in their midst.

As she walked down the aisle with her father, his whispered admonition cut through her numbness. "You better not tarnish our reputation," he hissed, his words a reminder of the conditional love that had shaped her life. Ananya chose to ignore his bitterness, focusing instead on the figure waiting for her at the end of the aisle—Rihaan.

Rihaan stood there, resplendent in traditional wedding attire, a mixture of nervousness and excitement evident in his sparkling eyes. Ananya felt a twinge of warmth as she heard him whisper to his mother, "Mom, is she a princess?" His mother, moved by his innocence, asked why he thought so. "Because she's really pretty, like the princess I saw in a cartoon," Rihaan replied, his admiration for Ananya shining through.

Ananya couldn't help but conceal a smile, feeling an unexpected rush of warmth spread through her cheeks. Rihaan's simple words touched her in a way she hadn't anticipated. As the wedding ceremony commenced, she found herself grateful that it was an intimate affair, with only close family members present. Ananya had always preferred solitude over crowds, and today was no exception.

The rituals proceeded, accompanied by Rihaan's infectious giggles and clapping. Each of his joyous outbursts filled Ananya with a strange sense of happiness she hadn't known before. His genuine delight at the proceedings melted the walls around her heart, easing her doubts and fears. In Rihaan's laughter, she found reassurance—a promise of a future where love and joy could be simple and unguarded.

As they completed the sacred vows and exchanged garlands, Ananya made a silent vow of her own. She promised herself that she would always strive to preserve the happiness in Rihaan's life, to shield him from the complexities and hardships that had shaped hers.

*******

Ananya stepped into the room, her movements heavy with exhaustion and the weight of emotional turmoil. Her eyes, searching for solace, found her husband, Rihaan Mehra, asleep on the king-sized bed. His tall figure lay peacefully, his face innocent and serene in slumber. Despite her weariness, a soft smile touched Ananya's lips as she observed him, knowing he too must be tired from the day's events.

Careful not to disturb him, Ananya quietly made her way to the walk-in wardrobe. She shed the elaborate bridal lehenga, exchanging it for a comfortable pajama. As she emerged, she saw Rihaan sitting up on the bed, rubbing his eyes in a cute, endearing manner, followed by a heartfelt yawn.

Ananya cursed inwardly at not being more cautious while changing. Rihaan's eyes fluttered open, and upon seeing her, he spoke with a tired pout, "Why did you come so late? I was waiting for you." His words, spoken with such innocence, Ananya felt a pang in her chest. It reminded her of countless evenings when she had come home late due to endless hours at work, only to find her family indifferent to her absence. They never waited, never expressed concern or understanding for her dedication to her career. Yet here was Rihaan, this innocent and pure-hearted soul, waiting eagerly for her, despite his own weariness. She felt a sudden warmth she had never experienced before. Rihaan's simplicity and honesty were a stark contrast to the complexities she faced daily.

Unsure of how to respond, Ananya was brought back from her thoughts as Rihaan called out to her, "Friend! Friend!" Confusion flickered across her face at being referred to as 'friend'. Did he not know her name? Rihaan clarified, "Mom said you are my friend, aren't you?" Ananya nodded gently, a faint smile playing on her lips. "I am. You can call me Anya, okay?" Her voice surprised even herself with its softness.

Rihaan nodded eagerly, "Okay." Then, noticing her tired demeanor, he said warmly, "Now let's sleep, you must be tired." Ananya nodded in agreement, her mind already pondering where she would rest. She eyed the couch in the room, far from inviting, but resigned herself to its discomfort. As she moved towards it, Rihaan stopped her, his expression puzzled. "Where are you going?" he asked innocently.

Ananya replied quietly, "To sleep." Rihaan's confusion deepened, "But the bed is here." Ananya hesitated, unsure of how to explain. Rihaan continued, "No, we have a bed, and Mom said we should sleep on the bed." Ananya was too weary to argue or explain further. She reluctantly climbed onto the bed and laid down beside Rihaan.

In a matter of minutes, Rihaan drifted off into a peaceful slumber, his breathing steady and calm. Ananya, however, found sleep elusive. Her mind raced with thoughts of the day's events, of Rihaan's innocence and the unexpected tenderness he had stirred within her. Despite her initial discomfort, she gradually relaxed, finding solace in the quiet rhythm of his breathing and the warmth of his presence beside her.

As the night wore on, exhaustion finally overcame Ananya. She drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep, the first peaceful night she had experienced in a long time. Beside her, Rihaan slept soundly, his trust in her and their new bond a testament to the beginnings of a journey neither could foresee, but one that held the promise of healing and love.

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