Closure

36. Bidaai

As the first light of dawn touched the sky, Akshu woke, slipping into consciousness as the clock neared 5 AM. Beside her, Abhi lay in a peaceful slumber, his hand wrapped warmly around hers. She hesitated to move, worried about waking him, so she stayed still, studying his face in the quiet of the morning. A gentle smile formed on her lips as she thanked her stars for bringing him into her life, filling her heart with love and gratitude.

After a few moments, Abhi's eyes fluttered open, catching her gaze on him. With a playful grin, still half-asleep, he whispered, "Good morning, Mrs. Birla." Akshu's cheeks turned a deep shade of pink, and she quickly pulled the blanket over her face, trying to hide. But Abhi, amused, tugged it back, his eyes twinkling. "You look even more beautiful now that you're my wife. How's that possible?"

"Stop it..." she murmured shyly, tugging the blanket again, but Abhi was faster, gently holding her hands down. The playful tussle brought him closer, and she found herself pinned beneath him, their hands entwined.

"Look into my eyes," he murmured, his voice tender and inviting.

Her heart raced as she finally lifted her gaze to meet his, feeling the warmth in his deep eyes wash over her. Slowly, he leaned in, placing a soft, lingering kiss on her forehead. "I love you," he whispered.

A smile blossomed on her face. "I love you too."

As his grip on her hands loosened and he leaned in closer for a kiss, she seized the moment, playfully pushing him onto his back as she got up. He looked at her, feigning surprise, and laughed. "Oh, you're so mean."

Akshu laughed, "We have a wedding ritual to finish! Bidaai is in half an hour. We need to get ready."

He sighed and then said, "You're right," a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Let's shower together; it'll save time."

Akshu's cheeks flushed again, but she smirked, stepping away. "Nice try, Mr. Birla," she replied, "But I'll need you for something else. I want you to help me wear my sari." She turned back, teasingly, "Maybe you could watch a YouTube tutorial to get it right."

Outside, both families were preparing for the bridal send-off. Manjiri and Neil were especially busy, making sure everything was perfect for Akshu's welcome at the Birla House, double-checking each detail at home.

After a while, Abhi was dressed in a crisp white shirt and black trousers, simple yet striking. Akshu, however, wanted to wear a pink sari, though she had never tied one on her own. Ever the caring husband, Abhi followed a tutorial, determined to help her with each fold and tuck. But he couldn't resist turning the moment into something more. As he draped the sari around her, he let his fingers linger now and then, brushing her skin flirtatiously. Each time he did, Akshu's breath would hitch, fully aware of his intentions.

Once they finished, Abhi grinned mischievously. "Where's my fee?"

With a smile, Akshu pulled him closer, her hands gripping his collar as she kissed him. Abhi, pleasantly surprised, wrapped his arms around her waist and deepened the kiss, savoring this shared moment before the rituals resumed.

Then, the hour of her Bidaai arrived, heavy with mixed emotions. Tears welled up in Akshu's eyes as her family gathered around to bid her farewell. Kairav was the most emotional yet immensely happy, knowing she had found true love. He trusted Abhi, confident that Akshu would be cherished and cared for. As Akshu embraced each family member one by one, Abhi's gaze followed her closely. He knew the sadness of this farewell would come, but seeing her tear-streaked face tugged at his heart.

Sensing the gloom, Neil said to lighten the atmosphere, "It's the same city, so no need to worry that much. Bhabhi, if you ever want to visit home, just say the word—I'll be your chauffeur."

With the goodbyes complete, Akshu left with Abhi and the Birla family. Seated in the back of the car, Abhi took her hand in his, kissing the back of her palm tenderly. She looked at him, her eyes still wet and tired, but she managed a gentle smile, leaning into him and resting her head on his shoulder.

When they arrived at the Birla House, the doorway was adorned with flowers in anticipation. Manjiri, who had rushed home to ensure she was there before the newlyweds, welcomed them with open arms. Stepping over the threshold, Akshu felt the warmth of a new family surrounding her, though she couldn't help but notice Harshvardhan's absence, her father-in-law.

Abhi's fingers tightened around hers, silently promising her that no matter what lay ahead, he'd be there, right by her side through it all.