A Love unspoken : An Unseen Affection

chapter:1

Aarish Bhattacharya stood in front of the large ornate mirror in his bedroom, adjusting the knot of his tie. His reflection revealed a man of striking presence, his tall and lean frame draped in a finely tailored coat suit that set him apart from the common people. The rich fabric, a deep charcoal gray, hugged his broad shoulders, falling perfectly along the contours of his athletic build. His tie, a subdued burgundy, added a touch of color to his ensemble, complementing the polished leather boots that clicked with authority on the wooden floor.

His face was a study in contrasts-sharp yet gentle, with high cheekbones and a strong jawline softened by a full mouth that hinted at an innate kindness. His deep-set, almond-shaped eyes, the color of dark black, carried a gaze that was both commanding and contemplative, framed by thick, slightly arched eyebrows. Aarish's dark thick hair was neatly combed back, revealing a smooth, broad forehead, a feature that often lent him a serious and thoughtful appearance.

There was an air of royalty about him, not just in the way he dressed, but in the way he carried himself. His posture was upright, his movements deliberate, and there was a quiet confidence in his demeanor that spoke of a man used to leadership, yet not detached from the responsibilities that came with it.

As he turned to leave his room, when his mother's voice reached him, playful yet insistent as she stood at the doorframe. "Aarish, my son," she teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief, " Bring my daughter-in-law home soon, Otherwise I will have no choice but to punish you!" She showed him, her palm indicating a slap.

Aarish chuckled, bending down to touch her feet, a gesture of respect that was deeply ingrained in him. "Ma, you will be with your daughter-in-law soon, I promise," he replied, his voice warm with affection,giving her a side hug.

His mother smiled, placing her hand on his head in a blessing. "Go safely, beta. And remember, I always pray for your well being." Saying she forwarded a spoon full of doi-gud to him.

He gulped it and with a final nod, Aarish descended the grand staircase, each step echoing through the halls of the Rajbari-a majestic mansion that had stood tall for generations. The Rajbari was a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, embodying the rich heritage of the Bhattacharya family. The exterior, with its imposing white pillars and intricate carvings, spoke of an era long past, while the interiors were equipped with the latest amenities of that time-telephones, electric fans, and even a refrigerator, a luxury few could afford.

The mansion was surrounded by sprawling gardens, where ancient trees stood like sentinels over lush lawns dotted with vibrant flowers. A large stone pathway, lined with blooming jasmine, led from the front door to the massive iron gates at the entrance.

As Aarish stepped outside, he was greeted by the sight of his gleaming car waiting for him. The driver, an elderly man with a turban tied meticulously on his head, stood by the door, ready to take him wherever he wished.

Aarish slid into the back seat, and as the car began to move, he gazed out at the countryside of his village. The fields were a patchwork of greens and golds, dotted with thatched huts and grazing cattle. As they neared Kolkata, the landscape began to change-the open fields giving way to the bustling city, with its crowded streets, colonial buildings, and the iconic Howrah Bridge standing tall over the Hooghly River.

The car pulled up to the crowded Howrah Station, and Aarish stepped out, making his way through the throngs of people. He found his reserved compartment and settled into his seat, the rhythmic sound of the train's engine soon lulling him into a reverie.

As the train gathered speed, Aarish's thoughts drifted back to another time, to a younger version of himself-a time when he was just eighteen years old.