Vivah: His Arranged Bride

ch-6 (veer)

As Aahana went to the kitchen to fetch the trays, I took the opportunity to grab a water bottle from the fridge.

Walking into the kitchen, I found Aahana reaching for the trays from an overhead cupboard, struggling to get a good grip. Without a second thought, I stepped closer, my hands instinctively finding their way around her waist. She felt small and delicate, trapped between my arms, her warmth seeping through the fabric of her saree.

"Careful, sunshine, or I might just lose myself," I whispered, my breath brushing against her ear as I gently tucked a few strands of hair behind her ear.

Aahna blushed, her cheeks tinged with a delicate pink as she met my gaze, "Well, I'm not just sunshine, Mr. Singhania. I'm a whole damn sky with thunderstorms and shooting stars" I couldn't help but be captivated by the warmth in her eyes, the softness of her features illuminated by the soft glow of the kitchen lights.

Before the atmosphere could settle, Aashika entered the kitchen, her voice trailing off mid-sentence as she caught sight of the scene. "Ana, aunty told me to—" she began, only to stop abruptly, her eyes widening with realization.

Aashika stammered, "Well, sorry, sorry—" But before she could finish her apology, Aahana, still blushing, playfully interrupted, "Aashika, it's not what you think. Veer was just helping me with the trays."

I took a step back, allowing Aahana to regain her composure. Aashika, now wearing an grin, teased, "Oh, just helping with the trays, huh? Well, Veer, I never knew you had a talent for kitchen assistance."

A playful glint sparkled in Aashika's eyes as she continued, "And Ana, aunty needs your help with something in the living room. But take your time, no rush," she added with a mischievous wink before exiting the kitchen

With a playful smile, Aahana stepped away from the kitchen, her laughter lingering in the air. She cast a quick glance in my direction, her eyes holding a hint of mischief.

"Looks like we've given Aashika some delightful gossip material," she remarked, a playful lilt to her voice. "Let's not keep maa waiting."

As she gracefully exited the kitchen, I couldn't help but smile at the way she handled the situation with ease and humor.

As Aahana rejoined the gathering, Aashika couldn't resist adding a playful twist to the situation,

"Aha, back from the kitchen, are we? Did Veer make you some special dish, Aahna?" Aashika teased, her eyebrows wiggling suggestively as she winked at me.

Aahana shot Aashika a playful glare, but her tone was firm as she defended me, "Oh, come on, Aashika. Veer was just helping me with the trays. Don't twist things out of proportion."

I couldn't help but appreciate Aahana's quick wit and loyalty as she stood up for me in front of Aashika's playful banter. Clearing my throat, I added, "Yes, Aashika. You know how it is, just being a gentleman and lending a hand where needed."

*****************

After two days of the sagai ceremony, my mother approached me with a request. "Veer, beta, why don't you take Aahana to Rajasthan with you? You have some work to attend to at our family haveli, and it would be a good opportunity for her to see our ancestral home."

The idea struck me as both practical and appealing. Not only would it give Aahana a chance to experience a different side of our family's heritage, but it would also provide us with some time away from the bustling city, away from the prying eyes of our families.

I mulled over the suggestion for a moment before deciding to act on it. Pulling out my phone, I composed a text message to Aahana.

Me: Hi sunshine! How about a trip to Rajasthan? Maa suggested it's a good opportunity for you to see our family haveli. Plus, I have some work there. Let me know if you're interested.
Aahana: Let me ask Maa and Papa.
Me: Sure, take your time. No rush.
Aahana: They said yes! When are we leaving?
Me: Great! I'll make the arrangements. How about day after tomorrow?
Aahana: Sounds perfect. Looking forward to it!

****************

As the day of our trip to Rajasthan arrived, Aahana and I found ourselves at the airport, preparing to embark on a journey that would take us to the heart of our family's heritage. Amidst the bustling terminal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, wondering what adventures awaited us in the land of our ancestors.

Just before we could enter the security check, I spotted Rudra, standing nearby. He approached me with an air of seriousness, echoing through the airport.

"Veer bro, listen up. Aahana is my little sister, and I won't tolerate any nonsense. You better keep her safe, okay? Otherwise, you know I can be a bit... persuasive," Rudra warned, his tone carrying a mix of concern and authority.

I chuckled, understanding his protective nature. "Don't worry, Rudra. I'll make sure she's safe, she's my responsibility now" I assured him, appreciating the brotherly concern.

Rudra nodded, a hint of a smile breaking through his stern expression. "Good. Take care of her, Veer bro. And if anything goes wrong, you know where to find me, that's all for now.. byee chipmunk" he muttered to aahna

As Rudra left, I turned to Aahana, who had observed the exchange with a playful smile.