The Unwanted Royal Marriage

14. The Marriage date

Meera's pov

As we entered the palace at 11 a.m., the grandeur of the place took my breath away. High ceilings adorned with chandeliers, opulent decor, and the soft murmur of excited voices filled the air. The Ranawat family stood at the entrance to welcome us, their warm smiles reflecting the importance of this day. However, I noticed Adhyay was conspicuously absent, as always. Mr. CEO probably prefers to make a grand entrance later, I thought to myself with a smile.

"Oh, welcome, Rajeshwari!" Rajmata said, her voice rich with warmth as she stepped forward to greet my mother.

"Shakuntala!" Dadi exclaimed, pulling Rajmata into a heartfelt hug. It was heartening to see them embrace, their friendship evident in the ease of their connection.

Maa and Arundhati Aunty followed suit, wrapping each other in a warm hug, laughter bubbling between them as they exchanged pleasantries. Chachi and Aditi Kaki joined in the friendly chaos, and I felt a swell of happiness seeing my family so connected with theirs.

As I stood there, Devyani and Dev, Adhyay's younger siblings, approached me with wide smiles. "Hi, soon-to-be Bhabhi!" Devyani said, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Oh, Meera Bhabhi! Thank God we're finally meeting you as our Bhabhi!" Dev exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. 

I laughed, feeling a rush of warmth at their playful energy. These twins are always up to some mischief, I thought fondly, grateful for their lightheartedness.

Kabeer and Saurabh, the other brothers, exchanged firm handshakes, their expressions friendly but slightly reserved, while I noticed Dhruv was nowhere to be seen—likely off with his elder brother.

Then my gaze landed on Saira, the silent of the Ranawat clan, who stood off to the side, looking shy yet adorable. Her wide eyes peeked from beneath her curls, and she gave me a small wave.

"Hi, Saira!" I said with a smile, waving back. She beamed at me, and I felt a tug of affection.

"Hi Bhabhi" she said with excitement "I've heard so much about you."

This gathering felt like the weaving of two families, a tapestry of connections forming with each introduction and hug. Despite the initial nerves, I was beginning to feel at home among them. But still, I wondered when Adhyay would finally make his appearance, the mystery of his absence adding a curious tension to the air.

Arundhati Aunty and Rajmata approached me, their faces lit up with smiles that felt like a warm embrace.

"Hayeee, meri bachii, itni pyari lag rahi hai!" Rajmata exclaimed, her voice melodic and filled with affection. Her eyes sparkled with joy, and I couldn't help but feel a flush of warmth at her compliment.

"Haan, Maa! Itni sundar bahu hai meri!" Arundhati Aunty chimed in, gently caressing my cheeks with her soft hands. Her touch was tender, and it filled me with a sense of belonging. I smiled widely, feeling both bashful and grateful for their kind words.

"Thank you so much!" I replied, my cheeks turning a shade of pink. "You both are so sweet!"

Rajmata laughed softly, her eyes twinkling. "No, no, it's all you, my dear! You have a glow about you today. It's clear you're ready to take on the world!"

Arundhati Aunty nodded in agreement. "And just wait until Adhyay sees you! He won't be able to take his eyes off you!"

Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I felt my heart flutter at the thought of Adhyay seeing me in the Anarkali. I don't know why but my heart and mind were arguing today maybe because of yesterday! There was a certain magic in the air, a sense of anticipation that made me giddy.