His Second Bride

Chapter 16 - His Second Bride

The Rajvanshi family arrived in Mandalgarh, where Mahendra and Kumudini warmly welcomed them with open arms. The courtyard was buzzing with activity, filled with the fragrant aroma of fresh flowers and the cheerful sounds of preparations. Noticing that Revati and Rudraveer were missing, Kumudini asked with a hint of concern, "Where are Revati and Jamai Sa?"

Aparajita smiled and reassured her, "They are coming in another car. They should be here soon."

Everyone then moved inside the grand living room, where the servants swiftly served snacks and drinks, ensuring the guests were comfortable. Aparajita, feeling a bit impatient, turned to Kumudini and asked, "Where is Aaradhya? I want to meet my would-be daughter."

Kumudini chuckled softly and replied, "She is getting ready in her room. You know how much time girls take to get ready, especially on such an important day."

Aparajita nodded, her face softening with understanding. "Yes, it's her right, and today is very special for her. Let her take all the time she needs to feel her best."

After a moment, Aparajita looked at Arya and suggested, "Arya, why don't you go and meet your future sister-in-law? It would be nice for you two to get to know each other."

Arya, however, was not very eager. She thought to herself, "What kind of girl is Aaradhya that she's ready to marry her own sister's husband?" Her mind was clouded with judgement, and she initially hesitated, but Aparajita gently insisted, "Come on, Arya, it will be good for you both. I'll come along with you."

Reluctantly, Arya agreed, and they made their way to Aaradhya's room. Inside, Aaradhya was sitting quietly, her long hair being styled by a maid. Although she was dressed beautifully in traditional attire, her expression lacked joy. Her eyes appeared distant, and there was a heavy sadness that seemed to weigh her down.

Aparajita approached her gently and said with warmth, "Beta, you are looking really pretty today." Aaradhya managed a simple smile in response, but Aparajita could easily see that her heart wasn't in it. The smile didn't reach her eyes, and her hands trembled ever so slightly as she adjusted her jewellery.

Arya observed Aaradhya, expecting to see a young woman excited about her engagement, but instead, she saw the clear sadness on Aaradhya's face. She wondered, "If she isn't happy with this arrangement, then why is she going through with it? Is she doing this for her sister Revati? She knows that Revati & Rudra sacrifice needed for the kingdom, but what could have made her agree to such a painful decision?"

Aparajita gently introduced Arya to Aaradhya, saying, "This is Arya, your future sister-in-law." Arya, who had come with preconceived notions, found herself softening towards Aaradhya. There was an undeniable innocence about her that tugged at Arya's heart. She chatted with Aaradhya, trying to make her feel at ease, but Aaradhya only responded with simple nods and quiet "hmm," her voice polite yet lacking any real enthusiasm.

After leaving Aaradhya's room, Arya turned to her mother with a serious expression and said, "Mom, I don't think she's happy with this."

Aparajita sighed softly, her eyes reflecting the same concern. "Yes, we can see that."

Arya's brows furrowed in confusion. "Then why is she doing it? I understand that Bhai and Bhabhi have to do it for the future of our kingdom, but what could have made her agree to something that clearly brings her no joy?"

Aparajita placed a comforting hand on Arya's shoulder and said, "Sometimes, we have to do things we are not happy with because we know it's for the greater good. Maybe Aaradhya is doing this for Revati, or maybe she feels this is the only way to gain her father's acceptance and truly become part of the family."

Arya frowned, not fully convinced. "But mom, this doesn't seem right. Why does she need acceptance? She's Uncle's daughter, just like Revati bhabhi."

Aparajita's gaze softened as she tried to explain, "Things are not always as simple as they seem, beta. There's a lot we don't know, and sometimes we judge others too quickly, just like you judged Aaradhya before even meeting her. I heard your conversation with Ranveer."

Arya felt a pang of guilt and looked down. "I'm sorry, mom. I shouldn't have judged her."

Aparajita smiled and gently lifted Arya's chin. "There's no need to apologise. The important thing is that you realise your mistake. Now that you've met Aaradhya, make sure to be kind to her. She's truly innocent, and she needs someone to be her friend. Always take care of her and make sure she doesn't feel alone."

Arya nodded, a sense of responsibility settling in her heart. "I will, mom."

As the time for the engagement ceremony drew closer, there was still no sign of Rudra. Aparajita received a call from Revati, who informed her that they were delayed and would arrive in about an hour.

Concerned that the delay might cause more discomfort, Aparajita suggested starting the rituals. She called Aaradhya, who came out of her room looking absolutely stunning with minimal makeup that highlighted her natural beauty. However, despite her lovely appearance, the sadness in her eyes remained, and it was clear she was putting on a brave front.

Arya couldn't help but admire Aaradhya's beauty and said with genuine warmth, "Wow, Aaradhya, you are looking really beautiful today." Aaradhya's lips curved into a small smile, and a faint blush coloured her cheeks, but the smile was still tinged with sadness.

Vikrant, noticing the exchange, said with a light-hearted tone, "Aaradhya, you should call her Bhabhi now. She's going to be your elder sister-in-law."

Before Aaradhya could respond, Arya quickly interjected, "Oh dad, she's younger than me, and she's my friend now. So I can call her by her name, right, Aaradhya?" Aaradhya nodded with a simple smile, and for a brief moment, there was a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

Aaradhya greeted everyone respectfully, taking Vikrant and Aparajita blessings by touching their feet. They lovingly placed their hands on her head, blessing her with warm smiles that conveyed their affection.

As the moments ticked by and Rudra still hadn't arrived, Aaradhya's heart grew heavier. She couldn't shake the thought, "The person who is going to be my husband is still not here. Maybe he's not ready for this either. Will I ever receive the love from him that I've always dreamed of? Or will my journey for love and acceptance continue endlessly?"

The room buzzed with excitement and lively conversations, but Aaradhya felt a deep sense of loneliness. She glanced around at the happy faces surrounding her and wondered if she would ever truly belong in this family. Her heart ached for the love and acceptance she had always yearned for, but which seemed just out of reach.

Aparajita, noticing Aaradhya's distant look, gently squeezed her hand, offering comfort. "Don't worry, beta. Everything will be fine," she said softly, her voice filled with motherly reassurance.

Aaradhya nodded, trying her best to believe Aparajita's words. She took a deep breath and mentally prepared herself for the engagement ceremony, hoping that this step would bring her closer to the family she so deeply wished to be a part of.