Shadow of redemption

ENDING WITH LOVE

Hello everyone welcome to the new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

As Aaravi and Rakshit stepped into their Mumbai mansion, the warmth of their Santorini vacation lingered in their smiles and the way they moved effortlessly in sync. However, their blissful mood was promptly interrupted by the sight of Raj standing in the foyer, arms crossed, clipboard in hand, and an exaggerated scowl plastered on his face.

"Finally! The prodigal couple returns," Raj announced, his tone laced with mock irritation. "Did you even think about us poor souls while you were sipping wine and watching sunsets?"

Rakshit raised a brow, his lips twitching into a smirk. "Raj, it was just two weeks. Don’t tell me you couldn’t survive without me.”

Raj sighed dramatically, throwing his hands up. “Barely! The office is in chaos, your chef has been experimenting with my waistline, and I’ve had to taste-test everything. I’m fairly certain I’ve gained five kilos.”

Aaravi chuckled, patting Raj’s shoulder. “Oh, please! You look perfectly fine, Raj. Honestly, it seems like you needed a break more than we did.”

Raj’s frown melted into a sheepish grin. “Bhabhi, I won’t lie. We missed you—and your cooking. Please, tell me there’s stuffed parathas in my future?”

Rakshit, now leaning against the banister, smirked. “I’m starting to think you missed her culinary skills more than her presence.”

Raj straightened up, ready to defend himself, but the sound of a suitcase unzipping caught their attention. As Raj opened it, a tiny jar of olive oil from Santorini tumbled out, splattering onto his polished shoes.

“Ah! My favorite boots!” Raj exclaimed, his voice dripping with despair.

Aaravi bit her lip to keep from laughing. “Well, think of it this way—now your shoes will carry an exotic aroma.”

Raj groaned, shooting Rakshit a look. “I swear, ever since you two got married, this house has turned into a madhouse.”

Aaravi handed him a delicate vase they’d picked up on their trip. “Careful with this one, Raj. It’s fragile.”

Raj rolled his eyes and carefully carried the vase to the display shelf. But as he stepped over Rakshit’s gym bag, carelessly left in the hallway, he tripped, the vase wobbling in his hands. He let out a high-pitched yelp but somehow managed to save it.

Rakshit, who had been watching the whole ordeal, burst out laughing. “Relax, Raj! You sound like a banshee.”

Raj glared at him, clutching the vase like a lifeline. “If you didn’t leave your gym bag lying around, I wouldn’t have risked my life over this piece of… art!”

Aaravi chuckled, her eyes twinkling. “Don’t worry, Raj. You’re now officially promoted to ‘souvenir caretaker.’”

Raj groaned again. “Next time you two jet off on some dreamy vacation, I’m taking permanent leave!”

The mansion echoed with their laughter, a lightheartedness settling over the home as Rakshit and Aaravi adjusted back to their routine, their bond stronger than ever.

One Year Later

The Khanna mansion in Mumbai was a vision of splendor, bathed in twinkling lights and adorned with fragrant blooms for a special celebration. Rakshit and Aaravi’s first wedding anniversary had drawn family and friends from across the country to honor their journey.