Ethereal: Eternal Echoes

28

Smriti

Thank God they liked Mawa. I can make good food but I am not that good. I mean I tried it for the first time. Firstly, I offered the sweet to laddu gopal and then served it to everyone hoping they'd like it and they did.

Later in the afternoon when I was in the bedroom, Ishan came.

"Smriti, I wanted to tell you about our reception..." He said in a not-so-convinced voice.

"When is it, Ishan?" I kept my voice low.

"Tomorrow evening 8 p.m.," he kept calm and continued, "but if you're not ready, I can ask maa to postpon-"

I cut him off and said, "-It's okay, Ishan. I am ready for it."

He sounded guilty.

"Ishan," I called him, he nodded and i continued, "Are you all well?"

He maintained a faint smile and said "Yes Smriti, I am all well. Don't worry, I just had a minor headache."

He has a headache? "Take some rest. And uhm, let me bring the medicine."

The moment I was going towards the door, he grabbed my hand and next moment left it as if he realised something. Then, to neutralize the awkwardness, he said "Smriti, you don't need to go anywhere. I have the medicine in my drawer."

I nodded.

He took the medicine and slept.

*The next day, in the evening*

It's 6 p.m. Ishan told me that we have to reach the venue at 7, before the guests arrive.

(after half an hour)

knock knock

I opened the door. It was Maa and Naika. I smiled at them and both of them were, I guess, observing my looks beautifully.

"Aayy haayy bhabhi, kitne khubsurat lag rhe ho! I am sure mera bhai behosh ho jayega aapko dekh ke!" Naika said as she approached me.

(Oh sister in law, how beautiful you are looking! I am sure my brother will faint after seeing you!)

Her compliment was enough for my crimson cheeks. Only if you knew your brother hates me on the place of love.

"Smriti beta, you're really looking so beautiful." Maa said and hugged me gently.

"Thank you maa" I said hugging her back.

Ishan opened the door and when Maa and Naika saw him - who was lost in someone he shouldn't be - they coughed and Ishan blushed. Yes. ISHAN SHAH BLUSHED!

"Naika, I guess we should leave. Let's give the couple their personal time." Maa teasingly said looking at both of us and emphasized the last two words.

I was looking down as a respect to my mother-in-law. I was new and before I became neutral with them, I think I shall show such respect.

The moment both of them left, I looked up and Ishan was looking at me. I caught him and he distracted his eyes.

Oh My God! Ishan Shah, you look so damn hot! I have a deep urge to kiss you and run hands through your hair. Come back to reality, Smriti.

"You are looking good, Mrs Shah." He complimented while his eyes met mine.

I flushed, "Thank you, Ishan. You too look good."

He smirked, "I know." He said and chuckled. I too joined him.

Then, we went to the venue. Maa, Papa and Naika in one car and Ishan and me in another. The venue was empty. We were sent for the couple photoshoots. I was shy and he didn't bother being shy. After the photoshoot, we went back to our seats.