Tangled Fate : A Royal Marriage

Chapter 14

As Jayavardhan and Shivani approached the hall where the family was seated, Shivani's nerves felt tighter with each step. The long veil she had carefully adjusted trailed behind her, adding a weight that mirrored the heaviness in her heart.

Her steps were slow but steady, and the rhythmic jingle of her payal was the only sound breaking the silence between them. Jayavardhan walked beside her, his gaze fixed forward, unreadable as always.

Upon entering the hall, the grandeur of the space caught Shivani's attention briefly-glittering chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, and intricate tapestries lined the walls.

However, her focus quickly shifted to the family gathered in the center.

As they reached the family, Shivani and Jayavardhan bent to touch their elders' feet, seeking their blessings.

Mithali placed her hand gently on Shivani's head, her smile soft and maternal. "Sada suhagan raho, beta," she said, her voice warm.

Shivani could feel the sincerity in her blessing, which made her heart swell slightly with a sense of belonging.

Others followed with their blessings, offering affectionate words that Shivani received with grace and respect.

Jayavardhan remained stoic, offering a formal nod to his elders before straightening up. Shivani couldn't help but sneak a glance at him, wondering if he ever felt the warmth this family exuded or if he was always this cold.

"Shivani, beta," Mithali said, pulling Shivani from her thoughts, "you look beautiful today. This yellow poshak suits you so well".

"Thank you, Maa sa," Shivani replied, her voice soft yet filled with gratitude. Neha and Meera nodded in agreement, admiring the simplicity and elegance with which Shivani had adorned herself.
Meera gave Shivani a knowing smile.

"She looks like a proper Ranawat bahu already," she commented, causing Shivani to lower her gaze modestly.

"We bring a daughter not bahu" rajvardhan said that words with love and pride. Everyone smiles hearing his words .

The praise was comforting, but it only added to her desire to make a good impression.

Neha leaned forward slightly, her eyes twinkling. "And now it's time for you to step into the kitchen, Shivani. We Ranawat women have a small tradition. You must prepare the first meal for the family, our rasoi ceremony."

She exchanged a look with Mithali, who smiled encouragingly at Shivani.
Shivani's heart skipped a beat. She had heard about the first rasoi ceremony-an important ritual in most Rajput households, symbolizing the new bride's ability to care for her family. She had been prepared for this but still felt a twinge of nervousness.

Cooking for her own family was one thing, but this... this was different. This was for a family that barely knew her, and more importantly, this was for Jayavardhan, who had made it clear that love was off the table.

"Don't worry, beta," Mithali reassured her as if sensing her hesitation. "We'll help you with everything you need. And it's a simple breakfast; nothing too elaborate."

Shivani nodded, taking a deep breath. They went to the kitchen. She knew the women were kind, but she still wanted everything to be perfect.

"Maa sa, I'd like to know everyone's favorite dishes. I want to make sure I prepare something everyone enjoys."

Mithali's smile widened, clearly pleased by Shivani's attentiveness. "That's very thoughtful, beta."

She gestured for Neha to chime in, and together, they began listing the favorites of the family members.