Destined to be Arranged

49. Welcome Home, Mrs. Shekhawat : Stepping into Forever ✨

Author's Note – Hello Butterflies🦋,

I know I am late, but I'm excited to share the latest chapter with you! It's a bit longer than usual, I'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback💞.

Enjoy the read, and thank you for your support! ✨💖

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Author's POV
It was now time for farewell, and for the newlyweds to begin their journey home. Nayantara was holding back her tears, overwhelmed by a wave of emotions. With every step, she walked past memories etched in every corner of the house. Rajveer held her hand, offering silent support. Her brothers followed closely behind, her mother clung to her as they moved together in quiet sorrow.

As they reached the threshold of the palace, her mother stood behind her, holding out her dupatta (Cloth), while Ruhanika handed Nayantara rice to toss behind as she walked ahead. Her mother caught the grains mid-air—a ritual observed in many Indian households during the Bidaai (farewell) ceremony.

There are several interpretations of this ritual—some say it symbolizes repaying the parents for their love and care; others believe it's a gesture of blessing the family with continued abundance and prosperity.

As Nayantara stepped out of the house, she turned around and embraced her mother tightly, sobbing uncontrollably. Meera held her close, tears flowing freely. Prithviraj pulled his daughter into his arms, his eyes brimming, though he tried not to let her see his vulnerability again.

Karan and Arjun enveloped Nayantara in a hug, the trio sobbing quietly. Ruhanika then stepped forward, pulled Nayantara into her arms, and gently caressed her head.

"You were the sister I never had," she said softly.

"And you were the bestest friend I could ever ask for," Nayantara replied, managing a small smile.

She later turned to her grandparents, who embraced her warmly, eyes misty.

"I will miss you, my gudiya," Mahendra said.

"My Laado, I know this is difficult, but everything will fall into place. You're not going away—you're just starting a new family. We'll always be here for you," Padmini whispered, trying to hold back her tears.

Meera and Prithviraj were too emotional to speak. Karan and Arjun stood by them, watching Nayantara bid farewell to everyone.

At the entrance, the palace staff had gathered to see their beloved princess depart. She walked up to them.

"I will never forget all that you've done for me. If anything bothers you, just call me—I'll set things straight. I may have left, but that doesn't mean I won't reply," she teased, earning smiles and blessings from them all.

Karan and Arjun helped her into the car. Rajveer joined her, sitting by her side. She looked out the window and saw her brothers pushing the car with heavy hearts. She waved one final goodbye.

She turned to Rajveer, who was already gazing at her, still holding her hand.
"I know it's difficult, but I'm here," he said. Nayantara simply nodded and rested her head on his shoulder.

Rajveer's family had returned home earlier to prepare for the arrival of their beloved Bahu (Daughter-in-law). The journey was long and tiring, both Rajveer and Nayantara dozed off, sleeping peacefully throughout the ride. It was late at night when they finally reached Adipur.

To say they were shocked would be an understatement—the entire town of Adipur was adorned with decorations. People waved enthusiastically as the couple passed, heading toward the palace. Rajveer and Nayantara waved back, hearts full of gratitude and love.