Chapter 81

Two weeks had passed since that evening when Niharika overheard Mayank's heartfelt conversation with his parents. Since then, their relationship had blossomed in a way neither of them had expected. They would wake up together, head to work, each in their own worlds, but always sharing quick conversations over coffee in the mornings. Lunchtimes were spent at their desks, but by evening, they would come home together and spend hours exploring new restaurants, tasting new cuisines, and laughing over dishes they loved and hated. It had become their little tradition. Their time together felt effortless and real.

But with each passing day, the feelings they had for each other were becoming impossible to ignore, yet neither of them had found the courage to voice what they truly felt. Mayank noticed the small, subtle things – the way she smiled at him when he least expected it, the way she tried to make him laugh after a tough day, the care with which she took care of him, even if it was just making sure his tie was straight. For Niharika, seeing Mayank interact with his parents had cracked her heart open. The love, the respect, the way he spoke so lovingly of their marriage, of her—it made her heart swell. She was falling for him, completely, but her insecurities still held her back. Was he feeling the same way? Would he ever say the words she longed to hear?

Tonight, however, it seemed that all the small hints, the stolen glances, and the unspoken words were about to reach a new level. Tonight, they were attending their wedding reception.

Mayank stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his black velvet suit jacket. His hair was neatly combed, and his expression was a mixture of nervous excitement. He looked dashing, his broad shoulders filling the tailored jacket perfectly, and the crisp white shirt underneath gleamed against the dark suit. His black velvet blazer had subtle gold embroidery on the lapels, adding a touch of elegance to the outfit. His pants were slim-fit, but comfortable, creating a sharp yet graceful silhouette. He completed the look with a simple black tie, and of course, his wedding ring on his finger—an almost imperceptible reminder of the bond he had with Niharika.

He took a deep breath, glancing at the time. She would be here any moment, and a small nervous energy surged through him. Today, in the back of his mind, he was preparing himself for something bigger than just the celebration of their union. He wasn't sure what it was, but his heart told him it was coming.

Meanwhile, Niharika stood in front of her full-length mirror, her hands lightly touching the delicate fabric of the lehenga she had chosen for the reception. The pastel pink lehenga shimmered under the soft light, a perfect contrast to her skin tone. The blouse, intricately embroidered with silver and gold threadwork, hugged her body in all the right places, its high neckline gracefully accentuating her features. The lehenga itself was a cascade of soft silk, flowing elegantly as she moved, with delicate floral patterns scattered across it, each bloom bringing the pastel pink to life. The fabric was a combination of satin and georgette, making it soft but structured at the same time. Her dupatta was draped over her shoulder, its sheer, soft fabric sparkling with tiny silver beads, giving her a gentle, ethereal look.

Her hair was tied in a low bun, adorned with tiny pink roses and a few strands left loose to frame her face. Her makeup was soft, yet elegant—subtle tones that enhanced her natural beauty. A light pink blush dusted her cheeks, her lips a soft nude, and her eyes were defined with a thin layer of eyeliner and soft shadow. The mangalsutra around her neck was the perfect final touch, and the sindoor she wore was a symbol of her commitment, a commitment that still felt new, but increasingly precious.

She caught her reflection and smiled softly to herself. She felt beautiful—radiant, even. But there was a heaviness in her chest too, a feeling she hadn't quite shaken off.

When she stepped out of the room, Mayank's eyes immediately locked on her, and he couldn't hide the admiration in his gaze. "Wow," he breathed, his voice barely above a whisper. "You look incredible, Niharika."

Her heart fluttered in her chest. She smiled softly, stepping closer to him. "You don't look too bad yourself," she replied, her voice teasing, but her eyes betraying the emotions she was feeling inside.

As Mayank stepped toward her, he gently took her hand, running his thumb over the back of it. "Seriously, though," he murmured, "You look breathtaking."

She blushed, looking down at their joined hands for a moment before meeting his eyes. For a second, everything felt so right, so perfectly aligned. They didn't need words. Not yet.

They smiled at each other, the unspoken words heavy between them, as if they both knew they were on the edge of something bigger, but neither quite knew how to bridge the gap.

As they headed out to join his parents, the evening was just beginning, but the night ahead held promises of closeness, of truth, and perhaps of love finally spoken aloud.

~•~

The reception was held in a grand banquet hall, decorated with elegant lights and flowers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Niharika stood by Mayank's side, feeling a little overwhelmed by all the attention but mostly happy. It was the first time in a long while that she felt like her marriage was being truly celebrated, not just as a formality, but as something genuine. The people around her were laughing, chatting, and greeting them warmly, and Niharika couldn't help but smile at the thought of how far they'd come.

Krishna, Niharika's cousin, approached with a playful grin on his face. "Bro, I knew you two had something going on back then since the thread ceremony when you came to Indore," he said, clapping Mayank on the back. "I just didn't think y'all were hiding a marriage!"

Mayank chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, that's my fault. I don't know why I hid such a beautiful thing, but here we are," he replied, looking at Niharika, his eyes softening.

"Beautiful, indeed," Krishna teased, giving Niharika a playful wink, which made her blush. "I have to admit, I didn't expect this, but you two are perfect together."

Niharika smiled, feeling both shy and happy at the same time. Mayank subtly reached out to touch her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. He could tell she was still adjusting to the attention, and he was more than willing to make sure she felt comfortable.

Throughout the evening, Mayank was by her side, always attentive. He'd make sure she had a drink in her hand, would help her find a seat if she seemed tired, and was constantly there to offer support when needed. It was clear to everyone watching that Mayank wasn't just a husband by name—he genuinely cared for Niharika and made it obvious.

As the night progressed, the music started playing softly in the background, setting the mood for a dance. The lights dimmed slightly, and the guests moved to the dance floor. Mayank held out his hand to Niharika with a soft smile. "May I have this dance, Mrs. Datta?"

Niharika hesitated for a moment but then placed her hand in his, feeling her heart race a little. "Of course," she said, her voice soft but filled with emotion.

They stepped onto the dance floor, and the world around them seemed to fade into the background as they swayed to the music. Mayank's hand was firm on her waist, while his other hand gently held hers. Niharika's hand rested lightly on his shoulder, and as they moved together, it felt as if they were the only two people in the room.

The song was slow and soft, and the crowd watched with soft smiles as the couple danced. Mayank's movements were gentle but confident, guiding Niharika with ease. She, on the other hand, seemed to be melting into his arms, her eyes soft with affection. There was a quiet understanding between them as they moved in sync, every step a reflection of the bond they'd built—strong, yet tender.

Niharika looked up at him, her chest tightening with warmth, and she couldn't help but smile. It was the first time in a long while that she felt so at peace, so secure in the moment. Mayank noticed the way her smile brightened, and he leaned in slightly, whispering in her ear, "You look beautiful tonight."

Niharika's cheeks flushed at the compliment, and she couldn't help but feel a little giddy. She didn't know when it happened, but somewhere along the way, they had gone from two people caught up in a marriage of convenience to two people who genuinely cared for each other.

The song ended, but they didn't let go immediately. For a brief moment, they just stood there, in each other's arms, lost in the connection they had formed.

When the music shifted and others joined the dance floor, they finally pulled apart, but Mayank's hand stayed resting gently on the small of Niharika's back as they made their way back to the side of the room. They were smiling, their hearts content, knowing that no matter what, they had each other.

And for now, that was all that mattered.

As the night wound down, everyone had left, and the house was quiet again. Niharika's family, along with Mayank's, had gathered for dinner earlier in the evening. The air was light with conversation, but there was an underlying warmth that lingered. Niharika sat beside Mayank, both of them exchanging small glances, but content in each other's presence.

Yangeeta, ever so pleased with how the evening had gone, leaned toward Niharika, her voice full of pride and joy. "I'm so happy for you two, Niharika," she said warmly, her eyes glinting with approval.

Niharika smiled softly, feeling a deep sense of comfort. "I'm happy too, Aai. Thank you."

Mayank, sitting across from them, added, "Me too. Thank you all for making tonight special." His words were sincere, and there was a true sense of fulfillment in them. He realized how lucky he was to have not only Niharika by his side but also the warm acceptance of both their families.

Yangeeta beamed. She had always hoped for her daughter to find happiness, and seeing Niharika's joy now, she knew that this marriage had worked in ways beyond what they had expected.

Later that night, after everyone had left and the house was finally quiet again, Niharika entered her room to change. She changed into comfortable clothes but realised she needed help to untie her hair from the flowers and pins attached onto it. She sighed and, knowing Mayank was nearby, called softly, "Mayank?"

Without a second thought, Mayank appeared at the doorway, his gaze intense as he saw her standing there. He didn't hesitate. His hands gently reached for the pins in her hair first, his fingers brushing against her scalp. The simple act of unpinning her hair felt more intimate than either of them expected. The room was filled with quiet tension as Mayank's breath caught slightly as he helped her.

Niharika turned around, about to thank him, but before she could speak, he leaned in. His lips met hers in a kiss, and this time, there was no holding back. The kiss was deep, slow, and intense. It was full of everything they hadn't said yet, full of the love they had been discovering together. His hands cupped her face, gently pulling her closer, while she responded with equal passion. There were no words—only the connection between them, raw and real.

When they pulled away, both of them were breathless, a quiet smile spreading across their faces. Mayank gazed at her, eyes soft. "I've waited long enough," he whispered, almost as if to himself.

Niharika chuckled, still trying to catch her breath. "For what?"

"For this," he said, his smile lingering, as he kissed her again.

As they stood there after letting go, the room filled with a comfortable silence, Niharika felt an unfamiliar sense of calm. She wasn't sure what had changed or when it had happened, but she felt complete in a way she hadn't before.

But just as she was about to get into bed, Mayank's voice broke the moment. "Not this room," he said, his tone serious but with a playful glint in his eye.

Niharika paused, unsure at first, but then she raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on her lips. "Where then?"

Mayank only smiled in response, taking her hand in his as he gently pulled her towards him. The night felt like the beginning of something new. A promise of more—of intimacy, trust, and the journey they were about to continue together.

🩷