Bound by Fate, Freed by Love

Chapter 16 Shayan Mansion

After the whirlwind honeymoon in the Maldives, the two couples—Samar and Mira, Fidel and Alyssa—returned to the Saad mansion. Though the trip had been brief, the memories they carried with them seemed to stretch for miles. The sky was still painted with hues of pink and orange as their car pulled into the grand driveway. Awaiting them inside were Mr. and Mrs. Shayan, eager to see their daughters and sons-in-law.

As they stepped inside, Mrs. Shayan was the first to embrace Alyssa and Mira, her eyes brimming with happiness. "My girls, you look radiant!" she exclaimed, her joy spilling over as she hugged her daughters.

Mr. Shayan turned to Samar and Fidel, shaking their hands warmly. "I trust you took good care of my daughters during the honeymoon."

"We tried our best, Uncle," Fidel replied with a smile, glancing at Samar.

"Tell us everything about the trip," Mrs. Shayan urged, practically beaming.

Alyssa, always the talkative one, launched into vivid details about the Maldives. "The water! You should've seen it, Mama. It was crystal clear. We went snorkelling, and explored the markets, and Fidel even got me this beautiful necklace!" She showed off the delicate piece, a sapphire pendant that matched the deep blue of the ocean they had just left behind.

Mira, quieter in nature, smiled as she handed a small gift to her mother. "We brought you something from the islands."

Mrs. Shayan unwrapped the gift, revealing a handcrafted wooden sculpture. "Oh, it's beautiful! Thank you, darling," she said, eyes shimmering with pride.

As the conversation flowed, Mr. Shayan turned to Samar and Mira. "Now, you must come to our house. It's time for your first stay at the Shayan mansion after the wedding."

Samar looked at Mira, who smiled gently. "We'd be honoured, Uncle," he said, nodding his head.

With the promise of their upcoming visit, the families sat together, sharing stories and laughter, but beneath the surface, some unresolved tensions lingered—especially for Mira, who couldn't quite shake off the look Fidel had given her just before they left the Maldives.

As the afternoon sun dipped lower into the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Saad mansion, it was time for Samar and Mira to make their way to the Shayan house. Mrs Saad, always graceful, hugged Mira warmly. "Take care, dear, and make sure to visit us soon."

Fidel stood beside Alyssa, his eyes momentarily locking with Mira's. "Enjoy your time at the Shayan mansion," he said with a faint smile.

"Thank you, Fidel," Mira replied softly, her mind momentarily flashing back to the Maldives and the tension that had settled between them.

As Samar and Mira waved their final goodbyes, Mr. and Mrs. Saad stood at the entrance, wishing them well, while Alyssa and Fidel lingered just a little longer. With the car engine humming, the couple began their journey to the Shayan mansion.

The sprawling gates of the Shayan mansion opened, welcoming Samar and Mira to a place she had once called home. Though familiar, today it felt different, knowing she was returning as a married woman. Samar remained composed, though this was his first time officially stepping into the Shayan residence as their son-in-law.

Inside, the warmth of her parents greeted them immediately. Mrs. Shayan enveloped them both in an embrace. "Welcome home, my dear," she said, her voice soft yet filled with love. She smiled warmly at Samar, "And you too, son. We're so happy to finally have you here."

Mr. Shayan clapped Samar on the back, a gesture of approval. "Samar, it's good to have you here with us. Make yourself at home."

Samar, always respectful, nodded. "Thank you, Uncle... I mean, Father," he corrected, earning a chuckle from Mr. Shayan.