Bonded Forever

ENGAGED

˙✧˖🌸˙✧˖

Vaibhav started driving to Khurana's mansion, with Ananya sitting quietly beside him. The silence in the car was calm yet filled with unspoken emotions. Vaibhav couldn't help but notice the soft blush lingering on Ananya's cheeks, the shy smile that played on her lips after their kiss. It made him feel a sense of pride and happiness, knowing the effect he had on her.

As the night deepened, the soothing hum of the car and the cool breeze made Ananya drift into a peaceful sleep. Vaibhav glanced at her from time to time, her calm face illuminated by the faint glow of the streetlights. Her innocence and beauty struck him in those quiet moments, and he found himself smiling softly.

By the time they reached Khurana's mansion, Vaibhav noticed Sumitra standing anxiously at the entrance, her face etched with worry. He brought the car to a stop right in front of the door and stepped out, moving to open the door on Ananya's side. Sumitra hurried toward them, her pace quick.

"Annu," Sumitra called softly, her voice laced with concern.

Vaibhav looked at her and spoke in a calm, reassuring tone, "Aunty, she's just tired and fell asleep. Don't wake her. I'll carry her to her room."

Sumitra hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Okay," she said, stepping aside.

Vaibhav leaned in and gently scooped Ananya into his arms, holding her securely in a bridal style. She stirred slightly but didn't wake, her head resting lightly against his chest. Her soft breaths brushed against him, and for a moment, he couldn't help but feel a wave of tenderness wash over him.

"Where is her room?" Vaibhav asked, his voice steady but gentle.

Sumitra moved toward the staircase. "Upstairs. Follow me," she said, leading the way.

Vaibhav followed, his steps careful and deliberate as he carried Ananya. Sumitra glanced back occasionally, watching how gently Vaibhav held her daughter, and her heart swelled with gratitude. She couldn't help but hope that Ananya's future husband, Vaibhav would treat her with the same love and respect she was seeing in Vaibhav tonight.

When they reached Ananya's room, Sumitra opened the door and stepped aside. Vaibhav entered and walked over to the bed, carefully lowering himself to place Ananya down. He adjusted her pillow and pulled the blanket over her, ensuring she was comfortable.

Without hesitation, and despite Sumitra's presence, Vaibhav leaned down and placed a soft kiss on Ananya's forehead. He lingered for a moment, then whispered close to her ear, "Good night, Ananya."

Sumitra watched the tender moment unfold, her heart feeling full. She couldn't hide the smile that touched her lips, wishing silently that her daughter would always receive this kind of care and affection.

Vaibhav straightened up and turned to Sumitra. "I'll leave now. Good night, aunty," he said, his tone respectful.

Sumitra nodded, her voice warm. "Good night, beta. Drive safe."

"Ji," Vaibhav replied with a small smile and a nod before making his way out of the room. Sumitra stayed behind for a moment, glancing at her sleeping daughter with a heart full of hope and gratitude.

The engagement ceremony of Vaibhav and Ananya was a grand affair, held at the magnificent Khurana mansion. The mansion itself was a masterpiece of modern royal architecture, blending classic elegance with contemporary design. Its towering pillars, adorned with intricate carvings, stood as a testament to timeless grandeur. Large chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a soft, golden glow that illuminated the entire space. The polished marble floors sparkled under the light, reflecting the opulence of the occasion.