His Wife

Chapter 9

Asvika's POV

The atmosphere in the car remained light-hearted and welcoming as we drove towards the mall. I sat quietly in the back seat, watching the passing cityscape through the tinted window. Buildings turned into rows of shops, and roads filled with bustling people, as Meera aunty and Tara aunty continued their animated conversation. Their laughter mingled with the hum of the engine, creating a lively vibe that was both new and comforting.

"Can you believe that blouse trend is back?" Tara aunty chuckled, shaking her head. "I wore something similar during my college days!"

Meera aunty laughed in response, "Well, some things never really go out of fashion, do they?"

As they laughed, I couldn't help but smile. There was an easy camaraderie between them that felt inviting. I never expected to experience something like this; I never imagined feeling like I belonged to a conversation about fashion or family gossip. Meera aunty caught my eye through the rearview mirror and turned around slightly.

"Advika, you seem quiet, dear," Meera aunty remarked, her voice full of gentle concern. "Are you alright?"

I sat up straight, realizing I had been lost in my thoughts. "Yes, aunty, I'm fine. Just a little excited and nervous at the same time," I admitted with a faint laugh, hoping to mask my jitters.

"You don't need to be nervous!" Tara aunty reassured me with a smile. "This is going to be a fun day out, and besides, you have us with you."

Her words eased my nerves a little. It wasn't just about shopping; it was about bonding. And they were trying to include me in this bond.

When we arrived at the mall, its grandeur took me by surprise. Glass panels gleamed under the bright sunlight, and the entrance was a hive of activity. I felt a bit out of place in such a setting, but Meera aunty and Tara aunty seemed completely at ease. They exchanged familiar smiles and greetings with the staff, who welcomed them warmly.

"Alright, first stop—the boutique!" Meera aunty announced cheerfully, leading us into a luxurious store filled with neatly arranged racks of sarees, lehengas, and elegant gowns. The sight of the exquisite outfits left me momentarily speechless.

As we browsed through the racks, Meera aunty pulled out a beautiful mint-green saree with delicate silver threadwork. "Advika, this one would look perfect on you," she said confidently, holding the saree up to me.

The soft material brushed against my fingers as I examined it. "It's beautiful," I whispered, unable to hide my admiration.

"Try it on," Meera aunty encouraged with a nod, gesturing toward the changing room.

I entered the changing room nervously, trying to remember how I'd seen my mother drape sarees. After a few minutes of awkward adjustments and tugging at the fabric, I finally stepped out, feeling uncertain. Both Meera aunty and Tara aunty were waiting expectantly, and the moment they saw me, their faces lit up.

"Advika, you look like a vision!" Tara aunty clapped her hands in delight, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

Meera aunty joined in with an approving smile. "This saree was made for you," she said warmly.

I felt a blush rise to my cheeks, a little shy and a little proud. "Thank you," I murmured, trying to take in their praises gracefully.

As we continued trying on different outfits, I felt more at ease. Their gentle guidance and unwavering confidence in me made a world of difference. They valued my input, asking for my opinions on colors and designs. Each time I hesitated, they encouraged me with kind words, making me feel like an essential part of their little outing.