Unbinding Tradition

52. Rest well 😇

Please vote and comment as much as possible... 🙏 🙏 🙏

Jungkook pulled the car to a smooth halt in front of Jeon Haveli. The grand structure loomed ahead, its intricately carved walls glowing faintly in the setting sun.

Four of them stepped out of the vehicle, the air heavy with the subtle tension that had hung over their journey. Hetal was the first to walk forward, her walk was confident as if she belonged entirely to the grandiosity of the haveli.

Behind her, Tae adjusted her pallu with one hand while carrying Jiminee in the other, the little girl clinging to her tightly; not wanting to let go off her Mami-sa. Jungkook followed them silently, his eyes flickering briefly toward Tae, noting her effort to balance Jiminee's weight without complaint.

As Hetal entered the haveli, the family members who had been seated in the courtyard immediately stepped forward to greet her. Their smiles widened at the sight of her, and Mr. Jeon himself rose from his chair.

Mr Jeon- Hetal. (he said warmly, extending his hand toward her)

Hetal approached him, her posture composed, and bent to touch his feet.

Hetal- Khamma Ghani Mama-sa.

Mr. Jeon- Ghani Kamma. Stay blessed always. (he said, placing a hand on her head and gently caressing her hair)

Hetal straightened, a small, satisfied smile on her lips, and moved toward Dadi-sa, who stood by the central pillar with her cane. Dadi-sa's stern face softened as Hetal approached, and she pecked her forehead affectionately.

Dadi-sa- My Lado has come. (she said, her tone laced with rare warmth) How was the journey?

Hetal- It was good, Nani-sa. (she replied, glancing back briefly at Jungkook and Tae, who were now entering the haveli)

But before she could say more, the family's attention turned toward other matters, and the bustle of the household resumed. Servants carried trays of refreshments, and the rest of the family drifted back to their respective tasks.

Hetal turned to a servant standing by the doorway.

Hetal- Keep my bags in the room where my mother is staying. (she instructed, her tone stern)

The servant nodded quickly and hurried off to follow her orders.

Meanwhile, Jungkook was heading toward his room when Hetal's voice stopped him in his tracks.

Hetal- Jungkook! (she called out, her voice lilting) Will you take me to the newly constructed Shiv temple? I've heard so much about it, and I really wish to visit.

Jungkook turned to face her, his expression neutral but his hesitation clear. He didn't particularly feel like playing tour guide, especially not today. Still, he couldn't find the words to refuse her outright.

Jk- Hmm. (he finally muttered in agreement, nodding curtly)

As he started to walk away, Dadi-sa, who had been observing the exchange, stepped forward. She raised her hand and lightly slapped Hetal's arm.

Dadi-sa- Hetal! What did you just call him?

Hetal frowned, confused by the sudden reprimand.

Hetal- What?

Dadi-sa- You called him by his name! (she scolded) How many times have I told you? He's elder to you. You must address him as Bhai-sa!

Hetal rolled her eyes.

Hetal- Nani-sa, I've never called him Bhai-sa since we were kids. Why should I start now?

Dadi-sa- Because it's about respect! If anyone hears you calling elder people by their names without respect, what will they think of you? No one will consider you for marriage!