Continue 🖐🏻.....
After carefully draping her saree, Mahek stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the pleats and making sure everything was in place.
The saree felt unfamiliar yet comforting against her skin.
It was a gift from Harsh's mother, symbolizing her welcome into the family.
Once she was satisfied with the way the saree looked, Mahek reached for her mangalsutra, the black-beaded necklace that had been placed around her neck during the wedding ceremony.
As her fingers brushed over the beads, she paused for a moment, feeling the weight of its significance. This wasn't just a piece of jewelry; it was a symbol of her marriage, a bond that tied her to Harsh.
She gently fastened the mangalsutra around her neck, letting it rest just above her heart. The cool metal touched her skin, sending a small shiver down her spine.
In the reflection of the mirror, she could see the necklace standing out against the soft fabric of her saree, a reminder of the vows she had taken.
Next, Mahek reached for the small box of sindur on the dressing table.
The bright red powder symbolized her new identity as a married woman.
She took a pinch of it between her fingers and carefully applied it to the parting of her hair, the deep red contrasting with her dark locks. As she did so, a sense of calm washed over her.
These rituals, though new to her daily routine, were grounding, connecting her to the traditions of her ancestors.
As she finished, she noticed Harsh's reflection in the mirror.
He had been watching her quietly from the doorway, his expression soft but unreadable.
Harsh: (gently) "You look... different."
Mahek glanced at him, a shy smile tugging at her lips.
Mahek: (softly) "Different?"
Harsh: (stepping closer, his tone warm) "In a good way. The mangalsutra and sindur suit you."
For a moment, there was a quiet understanding between them, the weight of their new relationship settling in.
Mahek looked down, her cheeks flushing slightly under his gaze.
Harsh: (in a playful tone, trying to lighten the mood) "I think you're getting better at wearing a saree, too. Not bad for a second attempt."
Mahek let out a small laugh, feeling the tension ease.
Mahek: (teasingly) "I had a good teacher."
Harsh chuckled, shaking his head.
Harsh: (with a smirk) "A teacher, huh? I didn't realize I'd be teaching saree draping. But there's nothing I can't do, apparently."
Mahek raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eyes.
Mahek: (in a low voice) "Oh, self-love..."
Before she could say anything more, Harsh leaned in close, whispering something in her ear that made her blush even deeper.
His words were soft, meant only for her, and the closeness of his presence sent a flutter through her chest.
Harsh: (whispering with a smile) "You'll get used to it... and maybe even better at teasing me."
Mahek looked up at him, her eyes shining with a mix of emotions she couldn't quite name.
Harsh held her gaze for a moment longer, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small smile, before stepping back, giving her space
.....,,............
It was the morning after the wedding, and the house was already bustling with activity.
