•𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐃 𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐄• /𝑳𝒂𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒚𝒂 𝑺𝒆𝒏/

' 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 5 '

Aarohi slowly opened her eyes, adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings. She was met with the warm rays of sunlight peeking through the windows, casting a golden glow on the room. She stretched her arms, feeling the softness of the bed and the gentle ache in her limbs, a reminder of the previous night's festivities.

As she sat up, her gaze fell upon Lakshya, who was sleeping peacefully beside her. But his peaceful expression didn't quite reach his eyes, which seemed to hold a hint of unease. Aarohi remembered the events leading up to their wedding, how Lakshya had been reluctant to marry her. A pang of doubt crept into her heart.

She got out of bed quietly, trying not to disturb him. As she began her morning routine, she couldn't shake off the feeling that their marriage was off to a rocky start. Lakshya's reluctance to marry her still lingered in her mind, making her wonder if he would ever truly accept her as his wife.

Aarohi finished her bath and began to get ready for the day. She chose a beautiful saree, carefully draping it around her. As she adjusted the pallu, she felt a sense of elegance and grace.

Just then, Lakshya woke up, rubbing his eyes. He glanced around the room, his gaze falling on Aarohi's back as she stood in front of the mirror. He didn't know she was getting ready, and for a moment, he just looked at her.

She's pretty, though, he thought to himself, despite his initial reluctance to marry her.

Aarohi, oblivious to Lakshya's gaze, finished her hair and turned around. Their eyes met, and Lakshya quickly looked away, trying to appear nonchalant.

"Morning," Aarohi said, smiling.

Lakshya grunted a response, trying to hide his true thoughts. Aarohi didn't seem to notice, and Lakshya was relieved. He wasn't ready to admit his attraction to her, not even to himself.

Aarohi walked towards the bed, her saree rustling softly. "Did you have a restful night?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Lakshya shrugged, still avoiding eye contact. "It was fine, I suppose."

Aarohi hesitated, sensing the distance between them. "I'll go prepare some tea," she said, her movements graceful as she turned towards the door.

Lakshya watched her go, his gaze lingering on her poised figure. He couldn't deny it - he was drawn to her. But he was determined not to let his feelings cloud his judgment.

As he got out of bed, he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. His eyes looked tired, his expression guarded. He knew he needed to work on his attitude if he wanted to make this marriage work.

But as he made his way to the kitchen, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he was trapped in a life he didn't choose.

Aarohi sat on the bed, trying to catch her breath after finishing breakfast. She had made a hearty meal, hoping to impress Lakshya's family, but he had barely acknowledged her efforts.

Just then, Lakshya walked into the room, his badminton racket bag slung over his shoulder. "Hey, you okay?" he asked gruffly, noticing her flushed face.

Aarohi nodded, looking away. "Yeah, I'm fine."

Lakshya raised an eyebrow. "You should change out of that saree. It's too formal for just lounging around."

Aarohi felt a sting from his words, but tried to brush it off. She didn't want his attention or approval anyway.

Lakshya sighed, putting down his racket bag. "Whatever, do what you want."

Aarohi nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She didn't want to deal with his mood swings or condescending attitude.

As Lakshya headed out to the backyard to practice his badminton, Aarohi let out a sigh of relief. She was glad to be rid of his presence, at least for a little while.