Felt and Fell

Thirty-eight

Aditya

As I watched Zoya's belongings being carefully moved into my house, a profound sense of excitement surged through me... An excitement that I haven't experienced ever before.

I was going to live with the dreamiest, most beautiful woman I have ever seen...ever known and she's mine.

All mine.

Each box and suitcase, every item she brought with her, seemed to weave our lives together.

My house was now brimming with a promise of her warmth.

I still remember how I felt for the first time when she entered my cold house.... I'd have that warmth of hers...every single day from now on.

Seeing her things-a stack of her files, the cozy throw she loved, and the artwork she cherished-being placed around the house filled me with an overwhelming anticipation.

This was more than just a physical move; a tangible step towards building a future together...with intangible emotions.

"Be careful with that," I called out to the movers as they carried in one of her delicate glass vases.

As Zoya stepped up to the door, her eyes sparkled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I suddenly remembered something important.... I wanted this to be perfect for her.

"Wait, don't come in yet!" I said, stopping her just as she was about to cross the threshold.

She looked at me, puzzled. "Adi? What?"

"Just wait right here, Shortcake. I'll be back in a second," I said with a grin, rushing inside to grab the kalash filled with rice and rose petals.

I wanted to welcome her properly, with all the love and respect she deserved.

I quickly lip the small diya I had set up, prepared on the plate with some flowers, and vermilion.

My heart raced with excitement and a touch of nervousness.
I wanted this to be perfect for her.

Returning to the door, I found her waiting, her curiosity piqued.

"Okay, now close your eyes," I instructed, my voice filled with anticipation.

She giggled but did as I asked. "Alright, Adii. What's this all about?"

I placed the kalash in front of her feet then gently waving the arti plate in front of her, I muttered a silent prayer for our happiness and her well-being. "You can open your eyes now."

She opened her eyes and saw the kalash and the glowing lamp.

Her expression softened, tears of happiness welling up. "Adi?" she murmured with astonishment.

"Mom would kill me if she finds out that I didn't do this for you," I said, grinning.

"But... It's for... marriage..." she stammered.

"Shhh," I shushed her gently, doing her arti. "Don't speak in the middle of the arti."

I could see the conflict in her eyes, but this was non-negotiable for me.

My mother had taught me how the woman of the house needs to be treated, like a goddess... and my Zoya was already a goddess.

"Married or not," I continued, my voice firm but tender, "you are the woman of this house now, and I will welcome you just right."

Her eyes filled with tears as I completed the arti.

I marked her forehead with the vermilion and signaled her to push it with her right foot.