When I opened my eyes the next morning, the early light streamed softly through the curtains. It was 6 a.m., and for a moment, disoriented, I stared at the unfamiliar surroundings.
Then, reality sank in—I was in Vedant’s house, not my own. The events of the previous day, the forced marriage, and his family’s reaction flooded back into my mind, leaving me with a strange mixture of anxiety and resignation.
I sighed deeply, pushing away the growing knot in my stomach.
I forced myself out of bed and headed into the bathroom. It was beautifully furnished, everything neatly provided.
The water ran cool against my face as I washed away the remnants of sleep, hoping it would also clear my restless thoughts.
Freshened up, I found the clothes set out for me—a simple but elegant dress. For a moment, I hesitated, my fingers grazing over the fabric.
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By the time I was dressed, it was 6:50 a.m. I quietly descended the stairs, hoping no one else was awake yet.
I needed a moment to gather myself before facing Vedant’s family again. But as I stepped into the living room, I saw that wasn’t going to happen.
Vedant’s mother, Badi Ma, and Dadisa were already awake, engaged in their morning yoga routine.
Their movements were fluid and graceful, a stark contrast to the tension I felt inside. I stood there for a moment, unsure of what to do or say. Should I go back upstairs? Should I greet them? My heart raced with uncertainty.
Badi Ma noticed me first, her face breaking into a warm smile. “Arrey Ojasvi, you’re already up? You should have rested a bit more, no need to wake up so early.”
I managed a smile, though I still felt awkward standing there. “No, Aunty, I usually wake up around this time,” I replied, trying to keep my voice light and casual.
But inside, I was a bundle of nerves, unsure of how to navigate this new dynamic.
“Ojasvi beta, why are you standing? Come, sit down,” she said kindly, gesturing to a chair nearby. “If you need anything, just let us know.”
I shook my head politely. “No, thank you, Aunty... actually, I wanted to go home.” I tried to keep my voice steady, but I could feel Dadisa’s eyes on me now.
She had stopped her yoga and was watching me intently.
Just as I finished speaking, I heard Vedant’s voice from behind me. “Ojasvi.” His deep, husky voice sent a jolt through me, and I turned to see him walking toward us, sweat glistening on his forehead.
He had clearly been working out, a water bottle and towel in hand, his athletic build and focused expression making him look so different from the man I had met just yesterday.
