Shiddat

Chapter 28

The sun had just begun its descent, casting a warm, golden hue over the sprawling Rathore mansion as Arjun, Maya, Ananya, and Rohan arrived home. The shadows of the towering trees in the garden stretched languidly across the perfectly manicured lawns, while a gentle breeze carried the soft rustling of leaves, hinting at the approach of dusk. The mansion, bathed in the amber light of the setting sun, stood majestic and serene, its tall, grand windows glowing faintly from within, as if welcoming the family back after a long day.

The scent of freshly cooked food wafted through the air as soon as they stepped inside, signaling that dinner was ready. Inside, the atmosphere blended warmth with grandeur. The marble floors gleamed under the soft lighting, while the elegant furniture, arranged meticulously throughout the rooms, reflected the family's wealth and status. Yet, despite the luxury, there was a distinct sense of comfort and belonging within these walls.

They made their way toward the dining room, where the long table was already set. The clinking of cutlery and the soft murmur of conversation created a soothing backdrop, complementing the rich aroma of spices filling the room. At the head of the table sat Sumiran, the matriarch of the Rathore family, her presence commanding yet nurturing. Her elegant saree was draped gracefully over her shoulder, and her keen eyes sparkled with a mix of wisdom and affection as she watched her grandchildren gather around.

As the meal progressed and conversations flowed naturally, Sumiran, who had remained quiet for most of the meal, cleared her throat. The sound immediately captured everyone's attention, and the room fell into a respectful silence. Her eyes, filled with a mixture of warmth and solemnity, locked onto Ananya, who looked up with curiosity and anticipation.

"Ananya," Sumiran began, her voice soft but firm, "I've been thinking about the pag phera ritual. It's an important tradition for our family, and I believe it should be done this week."

Ananya's face softened with a smile as she nodded, the thought of returning to her family home for the ritual filling her with warmth. Although she liked the Rathore household and was growing accustomed to her new life, the prospect of seeing her parents and brothers again so soon made her heart swell with happiness.

"Tomorrow," Sumiran continued, "your brothers will be coming to take you for the ceremony."

Arjun, seated at the other end of the table, cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the entire family. His piercing brown eyes scanned the room briefly before he spoke in a firm tone that left little room for discussion.

"I've planned our reception party for this weekend," he announced, his voice steady and authoritative.

The announcement was met with approving nods and smiles around the table. The family quickly engaged in discussions about the preparations. The family dispersed soon after, each heading to their rooms to rest for the busy days ahead.

Later that night, Ananya sat by the window of her room, her phone pressed to her ear as she called her parents. "Maa, I didn't apply for leave yet," she said with a hint of concern in her voice. "The pag phera is so sudden, and I've just been assigned a new project at work. I'll need to go to the new office tomorrow." Her mother's reassuring voice calmed her, reminding her that everything would work out. Ananya smiled softly, her heart warmed by the support.

The next morning dawned crisp and clear over the Rathore mansion. The golden rays of the sun streamed through the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the elegant interiors. The house was alive with a gentle bustle as preparations for the day unfolded. Servants moved quietly through the hallways, attending to their tasks with precision, while the aroma of fresh breakfast drifted from the kitchen.