Shadow of redemption

Rituals

Hello everyone welcome to the new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

The priest’s chants echoed through the mandap as the sacred fire burned brightly, its warmth filling the space with serenity. Aaravi and Rakshit sat side by side, their hands folded in prayer as the rituals began. The families gathered around, their faces glowing with pride and happiness.

As the priest instructed, Rakshit reached for Aaravi’s hand, his touch gentle yet firm. She glanced at him, her eyes sparkling with a mix of shyness and excitement. "Nervous?" she whispered teasingly.

"Not anymore," Rakshit replied, a rare smile gracing his lips. "You’re my strength, Aaravi."

The Kanyadaan ceremony began, with Dr. Rajesh Kapoor placing Aaravi’s hand into Rakshit’s. “Take care of my daughter. She’s been our light, and now she’s yours,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

“I promise, uncle,” Rakshit replied earnestly, his eyes meeting Dr. Kapoor’s with unwavering determination.

The pheras followed, each vow strengthening their bond. Rakshit led the first few rounds with confident strides, and then Aaravi took the lead, her steps filled with grace and determination.

As the sindoor was applied and the mangalsutra adorned her neck, Aaravi felt tears well up. Rakshit leaned closer and murmured, “You’re mine now, forever.”

“And you’re mine,” she replied, sealing their vows with a smile.

An Emotional Bidaai

The air was heavy with emotion as Aaravi stood at the entrance of her childhood home, dressed in her exquisite bridal attire. Her lehenga glittered under the dim evening lights, but her eyes glistened with unshed tears. Behind her, the Kapoor family stood, their hearts weighed down by the bittersweet moment.

Dr. Rajesh Kapoor, the man who had adopted Aaravi as his daughter, held her hands firmly, his eyes moist. "You’ve always been my pride, Aaravi. You gave this house its warmth, its love. Today, you’re stepping into a new home, but remember, you’ll always be my daughter." His voice cracked, and Aaravi hugged him tightly, her tears flowing freely.

Mrs. Priya Kapoor, who had grown to see Aaravi as her daughter in every way, wiped her tears silently. "Take care of yourself, Aaravi. And of Rakshit. You’ve brought so much happiness into our lives." Aaravi touched her feet, sobbing.

Riya hugged her tightly. "Who will I gossip with now? Aaravi, you’ve been more than a sister to me."

Aryan, her protective elder brother, was the most affected. "You’re my little sister, my Aaravi. How will I protect you from afar? But I trust Rakshit to keep you safe." He pulled her into a bear hug, hiding his tears.

Aaravi turned to the family, trembling as she spoke. "You gave me love when I had no one. I’ll miss this house, but you’ll always be my family. I’ll carry your love wherever I go."

She paused, looking up at the sky. "Mama, Papa," she whispered, remembering her biological parents, "I hope you’re watching. I’m not alone; I’m surrounded by love."

Rakshit stepped forward, his face soft with understanding. "She’s not leaving you; she’s just expanding her family. I promise to cherish her, protect her, and keep her smiling always."

As Aaravi sat in the car, the Kapoor family waved, their tears mixing with smiles of pride. Aaravi clutched Rakshit’s hand as the car drove away, her heart torn yet full.