RESTART

chapter 35

The next morning, the house was buzzing with excitement. Today was the day they would head to Abhiman’s bua’s house for the wedding celebrations. Jeevika had woken up early, ensuring everything was packed and ready for the trip. The family atmosphere felt warm and welcoming, and Jeevika found herself growing closer to them with each passing day.

But amidst the joy, the words of Pandit ji from the previous day continued to haunt her. “You cannot tell anyone about your rebirth. If you do, there will be consequences.”

The weight of that secret sat heavily on her heart. She wanted to confide in Abhiman, but she couldn't. Every time she looked at him, her chest tightened with the burden of what she knew, but the pandit’s warning kept her silent.

Abhiman’s bua lived in the city, not too far from the village. The distance was about a 2-3 hour drive, so they decided to travel by car. Jeevika and Abhiman would be in one car, while his parents and siblings would follow in another. Jeevika wore a traditional saree, knowing that his bua was a very traditional woman.

Abhiman was in the driver’s seat, while Jeevika sat beside him in the passenger seat. The car was packed with gifts and suitcases, leaving just enough room for the two of them. As they set off, the quiet roads and the early morning sun made for a perfect start to their journey.

“Tum thik toh ho na, Jeevika? Aaj tum kuch zyada hi chup lag rahi ho,” Abhiman asked, glancing at her as he steered the car onto the main road.

Jeevika forced a smile, trying to shake off the uneasy feeling. “Haan, bas thoda tired hoon. Subah se packing kar rahi thi na.”

Abhiman chuckled softly. “Tumhara problem yeh hai ki tum sab kuch apne upar le leti ho. Relax karo, ab aage kaam nahi karna hai. Abhi bas hum dono ka time hai.”

Jeevika’s smile softened at his words, but her mind still raced with thoughts of the pandit’s cryptic warning.

As they continued driving, Abhiman reached over and held Jeevika’s hand. “Tumhe pata hai, jab hum pehli baar mile the, mujhe lagta tha tumhari aankhon mein koi raaz hai. Aaj tak samajh nahi aaya ki wo kya hai,” he said, his voice low and teasing.

Jeevika’s heart skipped a beat at his words, but she quickly masked her reaction. "Tum kab se itne philosopher ban gaye ho?" she joked, trying to lighten the mood.

A few hours into the journey, they decided to stop at a roadside stall to grab something to eat. It was a small, humble place, but the air was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of pakoras and tea. They got out of the car and shared a plate of snacks, laughing and enjoying the simplicity of the moment.

“Tumhe dekh kar lagta hai tumne pehle kabhi yeh sab nahi khaya,” Abhiman teased, watching as Jeevika tried to eat the pakoras without burning her tongue.

“Main itni bhi modern nahi hoon! Bas yeh pakore thode zyada spicy hain,” Jeevika retorted, taking a sip of water to cool down.

Their playful banter continued as they ate, the tension from earlier slowly melting away. It was moments like this that made Jeevika forget, even if just for a little while, about the weight she carried inside.

Eventually, they got back in the car and continued their journey. The city slowly came into view, and soon they arrived at Abhiman’s bua’s house. The house was decorated beautifully, already bustling with wedding preparations.

“Yeh rahi bua ka ghar,” Abhiman said, parking the car and stepping out.

Jeevika followed him, feeling both excited and a little nervous. She had met his bua before, but this time something felt different. And without knowing it, she was about to meet someone who would change everything.