3

Jindagi mein kabhi-kabhi fansne se humko sahi rasta dikhata hai.

After one week

Avni sat in the mandap, surrounded by colorful decorations and the buzz of her family and friends. The sweet scent of flowers filled the air, but all she could feel was a tight knot in her stomach. Everything is happening so fast. She couldn't believe she was here, dressed in a beautiful lehenga, ready to get married to the person she thought to expose about.

Just a few weeks ago, her life felt normal. She was focused on her studies and spending time on her secret investigation. Now, it felt like a whirlwind had picked her up and dropped her into this moment. She glanced around at the smiling faces, everyone so happy for her.

As the priest began to chant the sacred verses, avni's mind raced. What about my dreams? She had plans, goals she wanted to achieve. Was she ready to give all that up? The weight of expectations pressed down on her. Everyone had their eyes on her, waiting for her to take the next step.

The intricate patterns of her lehenga reminded her of all the traditions she was stepping into. Could she really balance her dreams with the role of a wife?

Avni took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm inside her. She closed her eyes for a moment, wishing she could pause everything. Just a moment to think, to feel.

Just then, her thoughts were broken when Pandit Ji said, "It is time to fill your hairline with vermilion." Avni's heart raced at the words, and she turned to look at Rudra. He sat there with an unreadable expression, his face betraying no emotion. Is he proud? Concerned? The uncertainty gnawed at her.

Rudra took the vibrant red vermilion in his hand, the small bowl glinting in the sunlight. Avni's breath caught as he approached her. This is it. This was the defining act that would mark her as a bride.

As Rudra gently placed the vermilion on her forehead, Avni felt a rush of warmth and anxiety swirling inside her. This is real. This is happening. The bright red mark felt both like a blessing and a burden, symbolizing all the expectations placed upon her.

She tried to catch Rudra's eye, hoping to see some sign of understanding or support, but his gaze remained focused. Does he understand how fast this is all happening? Avni's heart pounded as she tried to steady herself, a mix of anticipation and fear swirling within her.

Then, Pandit Ji instructed them to take the sacred seven steps, a vital part of the ceremony. Avni felt her heart race again. She took a deep breath and placed her hand in rudras, ready to begin the ritual.

As they started to walk, Avni stole another glance at Rudra. His face remained expressionless, as if he were a statue carved from stone. Why won't he show any emotions? She wondered, feeling a wave of disappointment. This was a significant moment, and she longed for a reassuring smile or a nod.

As they finished walking, the wedding rituals came to a close, and Avni felt a mix of relief and lingering uncertainty. She sat down in the mandap, her mind racing as the sounds of laughter and celebration filled the air.

Just then, Kritika approached and enveloped Avni in a warm hug. "You did it! You're officially married!" she exclaimed, her voice bright with excitement. But as she pulled back, she noticed the cloud of contemplation on Avni's face. "What's on your mind, what are you thinking about Rudra's daughter?"

Avni sighed, her heart heavy. "I don't know anything," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. She looked around at the vibrant decorations and the jubilant crowd, feeling the weight of expectation settle on her shoulders. "I'm only 22, and I don't know how I'm going to handle everything."

Kritika's expression softened with understanding. "It's okay to feel overwhelmed. This is a big change, and it's normal to have doubts. You don't have to have it all figured out right now."

"I just feel like there's so much pressure," Avni confessed, running a hand through her hair. "Everyone expects me to know how to be a perfect wife, to take care of everything, and I'm not even sure of myself. It's like I'm stepping into a role I'm not ready for."

Kritika nodded, her eyes filled with empathy. "You're not alone, Avni. Everyone goes through this. You'll find your way. You don't have to be perfect; you just need to be you."

Avni felt a small spark of comfort from Kritika's words. "Thank you," she said, managing a faint smile. "I just hope I can balance everything and still be true to myself."

■

As the wedding ceremony came to a close, the atmosphere turned heavy with emotions. Avni's eyes filled with tears as she said goodbye to her parents. Her mother held her tightly, unwilling to let go, while her father gently patted her head, whispering words of comfort. They both tried to stay strong, but the bond they shared made this parting almost unbearable.

She then turned towards, Kritika, as soon as Avni reached for her, Kritika broke down, hugging her tightly.

"I don't want you to go," Kritika sobbed, burying her face into Avni's shoulder.

Avni's heart broke at her words, and she stroked her hair gently. "I'm not going far. And you can visit me whenever you want."

They held each other for a few more moments before Avni finally pulled away, wiping her tears.

Just then Rudra's driver, opened the door of the car, waiting patiently. Rudra had already gotten into the car, sitting quietly. After a few more comforting words from her parents, Avni finally stepped toward the vehicle. Her legs felt heavy as if each step was pulling her further away from her old life.

She took one last look at her family, and forced herself to get into the car. She leaned her head against the window as the car slowly pulled away from her home. The city lights blurred as her eyes filled with fresh tears. It was hard to hold them back now. Her mind was racing with memories, thoughts, and uncertainty about the future.

Next to her, Rudra sat silently, watching her from the corner of his eye. He noticed her sniffles and the quiet tears running down her face. Without saying a word, he reached into the compartment and pulled out a tissue. Gently, he handed it to her.

Avni glanced at him and hesitated for a moment. Then she took the tissue and wiped her eyes, grateful for the small gesture, though it didn't stop the flow of emotions running through her.

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Rudra didn't respond, only giving a small nod, his expression neutral.

Minutes passed in silence, with only the soft hum of the car filling the air. Avni closed her eyes, trying to calm her mind, but the overwhelming weight of everything that had happened that day made it impossible. She felt lost, caught between two worlds, the one she was leaving behind and the one she was about to enter. She can't get over the fact that she married someone she hate.

Finally, the car slowed as they neared the grand gates of the Raishinghani mansion. Avni sat up, her heart pounding in her chest. The mansion loomed large before her, its towering presence a reminder of the new life she was stepping into. The car came to a halt, and driver quickly stepped out to open the door.

Rudra was the first to get out, his face unreadable as always. Avni followed slowly, her hands trembling as she stepped out onto the driveway. The mansion was beautifully lit, with soft lights lining the path leading to the entrance.

Standing at the doorway was Rudra's mother, holding a traditional aarti plate, her face calm and composed. She stepped forward as soon as Rudra and Avni approached.

"Welcome home," Rudra's mother said softly, her eyes moving between her son and her new daughter-in-law. She performed the aarti, moving the plate in a circle before them as part of the traditional welcome.

After completing the ritual, she sprinkled flower petals over their heads, symbolizing blessings and happiness for the new couple.

Avni stood there quietly, feeling the weight of the moment, her mind still spinning. The mansion, though grand and beautiful, felt foreign and intimidating. This wasn't just her husband's home; it was hers now too. But in that moment, it still felt like a stranger's house.

"Come inside," Rudra's mother finally said, stepping back and gesturing for them to enter. Her tone was kind, but there was an air of formality about it.

Rudra gave a slight nod and began walking inside, his steps confident as if this was all routine for him. Avni hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath before following behind him. Each step she took into the mansion felt like a step deeper into the unknown.

Avni glanced around, taking in the grandeur of the place. It was beautifully decorated, but it felt cold, unlike the warmth of his parents' home. She could feel the eyes of the servants on her, watching her every move.

The door closed behind them, and Avni realized that this was her new reality. This was her new home. And with it came a future that was still uncertain, but there was no turning back now.

■

Avni was sitting on the couch, her eyes red and swollen from crying. She tried to hold herself together, but her sobs betrayed her emotions. Just then, her mother-in-law came over, her voice carrying a blend of affection and care.

"Dear," she said softly, "you and Rudra should sleep in his room."

Before Avni could say anything, Rudra spoke in a cold tone, "Main apni beti ke saath alag kamre mein soonga. Avni can sleep in my room."

(I will sleep in a separate room with my daughter)

His mother's face showed some disappointment. "Rudra, this is your first night of marriage. You both should sleep together. It's a tradition)

"Iski koi zaroorat nahi hai," Rudra said sternly, ending the conversation.

(There is no need of that)

After that, Rudra walked toward his room. Avni, still sitting on the couch, watched as Rudra took his daughter Driti by the hand. It was the first time Avni saw Driti. Driti was a sweet and innocent child, completely unaware of the tension in the air.

Driti looked up at her father and then at Avni, who was still sobbing. In her innocent voice, she asked, "Papa who is she?".

Rudra was about to say something, but his mother quickly replied, "Yeh tumhari mamma hain, beta."

(She is your new mother dear)

Rudra's face hardened. Looking at his mother, he said, "Nahi, yeh tumhari mamma nahi hain. Yeh sirf meri patni hain, inka tumse koi lena-dena nahi hai."

(No, she is not your mother. She is just my wife, she has nothing to do with you)

With that, Rudra took Driti's hand and led her to the other room, leaving Avni alone once again.

After Rudra left, Avni sat in silence, trying to calm herself. A few moments later, her mother-in-law returned to the room. She looked at Avni with concern and said softly, "Beta, agar tum chaho toh tum mere saath so sakti."

(Dear, if you want, you can sleep with me)

Avni wiped away her remaining tears, forcing a small smile as she shook her head. "Nahi, main apne kamre mein hi so jaungi," she replied.

(No, I will sleep in my room)

Her mother-in-law nodded, "Theek hai, beta. Chalo, main tumhe tumhara kamra dikha deti hoon."

She led Avni down the hall and opened the door to a spacious room. "Yeh tumhara kamra hai. Agar tumhe kuch bhi chahiye ho, mujhe ya kisi ko bhi bata dena," she added gently before leaving.

(Ok then, come with me, I will show you the room. This is your room. If you need anything, let me or anyone else know)

Avni stepped into the room, closed the door behind her, and took a deep breath. She walked over to the bed and sat down, her hands gripping the soft sheets. The weight of everything that had happened hit her like a wave, and she lay down on the bed, curling up as she began to cry again.

She couldn't believe how Rudra had treated her, how he had pushed her away so easily, even in front of his own daughter. His coldness felt like a sharp knife cutting through her heart.

After a few minutes of sobbing into the pillow, she suddenly heard a soft knock at the door. Wiping her tears hastily, she got up and opened it. Standing in the doorway was a maid, carrying a set of clothes and a tray of food.

The maid smiled politely and said, "Minister sir ne bheja hai. Kapde badalne ke liye aur khaana khaane ke liye."

(Minister sir has sent me. To change your clothes and have some food)

Avni, surprised, hesitated for a moment before taking the items from the maid. "Thank you," she said, offering a small smile in return. The maid nodded and quietly left the room.

As Avni placed the clothes and food on the table, her mind raced with thoughts. Why does Rudra behave so strangely? she wondered. He was cold and distant one moment, and yet he had sent her clothes and food, as if he cared in some small way.

Trying to push her confusion aside, she decided to take a bath. After a long, soothing shower, she changed into the clothes Rudra had sent. They were simple yet comfortable, reminding her of her old life before all of this.

But even after she changed, Avni couldn't stop thinking about Rudra's behavior. She sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the door, wondering if she would ever understand the man she had just married.

Her thoughts were interrupted by another soft knock on the door. Startled, she got up, half-expecting it to be the maid again, but when she opened the door, she found her mother-in-law standing there.

"Beta, sab theek hai na?" her mother-in-law asked gently.

(Dear, is everything alright?)

Avni forced a small smile and nodded, trying to seem composed. "Haan, maa. Sab theek hai," she replied.

(Yes, Mom. Everything is fine)

Her mother-in-law stepped closer, her voice dropping to a softer, more understanding tone. "I know, everything feels strange at first. Rudra is a bit different, but with time, everything will be fine. You just need to give it time."

Avni listened carefully, wanting to believe her words but feeling unsure. "Lekin Rudra... woh kyun itna door rehta hai?" she asked, her voice filled with the hurt she had been holding in. "Usne mujhse ek baar bhi theek se baat nahi ki, aur ab woh mujhe apni zindagi se alag kar raha hai."

("But Rudra... why does he stay so distant? He hasn't even spoken to me properly once, and now he's pushing me out of his life)

Her mother-in-law sighed, her face showing signs of worry but also understanding. "Rudra kaafi kuch jhel chuka hai apni purani zindagi mein. Woh Driti ke saath bohot attached hai. Shayad isi liye woh tumhe apne aas paas nahi aane de raha, lekin tumhe haar nahi maan ni chahiye. Rudra ko samajhne mein thoda time lagega."

(Rudra has endured a lot in his old life. He is very attached to driti. Maybe that's why he's not letting you come close, but you shouldn't give up. It will take some time for Rudra to understand)

Avni looked down, feeling a mixture of hope and despair. "Main samajhne ki koshish kar rahi hoon, par yeh sab mere liye bohot mushkil hai."

(I'm trying to understand, but all of this is very difficult for me)

Her mother-in-law gave her a reassuring smile. "You are a strong girl, Avni. I have full confidence that you will manage this relationship. The way to understand Rudra's heart goes through his daughter. If you try to build a relationship with Driti, gradually Rudra will also come closer to you."

Avni nodded slowly, taking in her mother-in-law's advice. "Main koshish karungi, maa," she said, though doubt still lingered in her mind.

(I will try mom)

Her mother-in-law patted her shoulder gently. "Theek hai, beta. Tum so jao ab. Agar koi bhi baat ho, toh mujhe ya maid ko bula lena."

(Alright, dear. You should sleep now. If you need anything, just call me or the maid)

Avni watched her leave, the door closing softly behind her. She stood there for a moment, feeling the weight of her situation pressing down on her again. Could she really find a way to reach Rudra? Was there hope for them, or would this distance remain between them forever?

Ss she lay back down on the bed, her mind wandered back to her mother-in-law's words. Driti... Rudra's daughter. If she could connect with Driti, maybe it would open a door to Rudra's heart.

But even that thought felt daunting. Avni wasn't sure where to begin. The little girl barely knew her, and Rudra had made it clear that he didn't want Avni in Driti's life.

She sighed, closing her eyes, hoping that tomorrow would bring some clarity. But as the night deepened, her thoughts circled back to Rudra his coldness, his contradictions, and the mystery that surrounded him.

■

The next morning, Avni woke up feeling the weight of the previous night's emotions still lingering. Her eyes felt heavy, swollen from all the crying, and when she glanced at the mirror, she noticed how red and puffy they had become. She sighed and decided to head outside, hoping the fresh air might clear her mind.

She walked into the garden and sat on one of the stone benches, letting the cool morning breeze brush against her face. The greenery around her was peaceful, a stark contrast to the turmoil inside her heart. For a few moments, she closed her eyes, trying to gather strength for the day ahead.

A soft voice broke her thoughts. "Madam," the maid said as she approached with a neatly folded dress in her hands. "Sir ne kaha hai ki aap jaldi tayaar ho jayein aur nashta ke liye neeche aayein." The maid handed her the dress and smiled politely.

(The sir has said that you should get ready quickly and come downstairs for breakfast)

Avni, still feeling emotionally drained, nodded silently and took the dress from the maid's hands. "Theek hai," she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

(Okay)

She returned to her room and slowly began getting ready. As she changed into the dress Rudra had chosen for her, she couldn't help but wonder why he cared enough to send the maid with instructions, yet remained distant when it came to their personal relationship.

After freshening up and wearing the simple yet elegant outfit, Avni took a deep breath. She knew she would have to face Rudra again at breakfast. The thought filled her with both nervousness and a faint hope that maybe today things would be different.

As Avni walked into the dining room, she noticed the entire family was already seated at the table, waiting for her. Her heart fluttered as she spotted Driti sitting on her grandfather's lap, happily munching on a strawberry. The sight of the little girl, with her chubby cheeks and bright smile, made Avni's heart melt.

"Kitni pyaari hai Driti," Avni thought, feeling a warmth in her chest as she approached the table.

(How lovely Driti is)

She took a seat, and her father-in-law looked up and said with a warm smile, "Good morning, how are you?"

Avni nodded her head in acknowledgment, managing a shy smile as she replied, "Good morning, uncle. I am good."

Just then, Rudra entered the room, dressed in his ministerial attire a well-fitted kurta paired with a half coat. He carried himself with a certain confidence, but Avni couldn't help but notice the cool detachment in him as he joined them at the table.

Alongside him is friend rohan, who greeted the family as they both took their seats.

Rudra's mom turned towards Rohan and said. "Rohan meet avni, Rudra's wife."

"Hello". Rohan said bending his head down a little.

Avni smiled nervously and replied. "Hello".

As everyone settled into their meal, Rudra seemed engrossed in his food, completely focused on his plate. Avni watched him from the corner of her eye, her heart racing with mixed feelings of nervousness and hope.

Suddenly, Rudra's father called out, "Rudra!"

Rudra hummed in response, his attention still on his food.

His father continued, "Mujhe laga tumhe avni ke baare mein sochna chahiye tha. Kal raat ko akeli thi."

(I thought you should have thought about Avni. She was alone yesterday night)

Rudra fell silent, the fork paused mid-air as he processed his father's words. Avni's heart sank at the awkwardness of the moment. She could feel the tension rising as Rudra chose not to respond.

"Kya tumhe kuch kehna hai?" his father asked.

(Do you want to say something?)

Rudra remained quiet, his expression unreadable. Avni wished she could understand what was going on in his mind.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Rudra replied. "Mujhe nahi laga usse koi problem hogi."

(I didn't think it would be a problem for her)

His father frowned, clearly disappointed with his son's indifference. "Rudra, tumhe samajhna hoga ki shadi ke baad sab kuch badal jata hai. Avni tumhari zimmedaari hai. Tumhe usse samajhne ki koshish karni chahiye."

(Rudra, you have to understand that everything changes after marriage. Avni is your responsibility. You need to try to understand her)

Rudra simply nodded, but Avni could sense the walls he was building around himself.

Rudra's father continued to scold him, his voice rising in frustration. "Rudra, tumhe Avni ke liye kuch karna chahiye. Woh tumhare liye hi yahan hai!"

(Rudra, you should do something for Avni. She is here for you!)

But just as the tension escalated, Rohan, intervened. "Uncle, one minute," he said, raising his hand slightly to halt the conversation.

Everyone turned to Rohan, curious about his interruption. "Rudra is going through a lot right now. The stress from his opposition party is too much on him. That's why he might not be able to find time for all this."

Rudra glanced at Rohan with a mixture of gratitude and annoyance, as if he didn't want to be defended but was appreciative of Rohan stepping in.

Rohan continued, "Aap sab jante hain ki politics kitni demanding hoti hai. Abhi uske upar kaafi responsibility hai, aur Driti ke liye bhi woh worried hai."

Rudra's father sighed, his expression softening slightly at Rohan's words. "Lekin isse toh kuch nahi badalne wala. Rudra ko samajhna hoga ki uski family bhi uski zaroorat hai."

(You all know how demanding politics can be. He has a lot of responsibilities right now, and he also worries about Driti)

Avni took a deep breath, her heart aching for Rudra. "Kya main kuch keh sakti hoon?" she asked hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.

(Can I say something?)

Everyone turned to her, and Rudra looked up, his gaze meeting hers for the first time that morning. His dad looked at avni "Agar tumhein kuch kehna hai, toh zaroor kaho beta," he said.

(If you have something to say, then please go ahead, dear)

Avni's mind raced, unsure of what to say. "Mujhe samajh aata hai ki politics ka pressure hota hai," she began, choosing her words carefully. "Lekin kya main Driti aur aapke liye kuch karne ka mauka nahi mil sakta?"

(I understand that there is pressure in politics. But can't I have a chance to do something for Driti and you?)

Rudra's eyes narrowed slightly as he considered her words. "Kya tumhe lagta hai tumhe sab samajh aata hai?" he asked.

(Do you think you understand everything?)

Just as Avni was about to voice her feelings, her words were abruptly interrupted by the shrill ring of Rohan's phone. He quickly glanced at the screen, his expression shifting from mild curiosity to a serious frown.

"Sorry, I need to take this," Rohan said.

"Hello?" he said keeping his spoon aside.

"Yeah, what's the situation?" Rohan's voice grew serious as he listened to the response on the other end. "What do you mean they're not on board? We can't afford to lose their support!"

Everyone seemed tense, eyes glued to Rohan as he continued his one-sided conversation.

"Listen, we have a meeting scheduled for tomorrow. You need to convince them to back us! This is a crucial moment for our party!" Rohan's voice rose, each word dripping with frustration. He ran a hand through his hair, clearly agitated.

"Do you realize the consequences of this? If we don't secure their votes, it could cost us everything!."

Avni could see the tension building in his posture, the way his jaw clenched as he listened intently to the person on the other end.

"Right, but promises mean nothing if they're not kept! You have to make them understand the importance of this vote!" Rohan continued, pacing more frantically now. "Get it done, or we're all going to regret it!"

He ended the call abruptly, letting out a heavy sigh. Rohan stood still for a moment, taking deep breaths to calm himself, but the tension still radiated off him.

"What's going on?" rudra's mother finally broke the silence, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Rohan is just stressed about the party's vote," Rudra said chewing on his food.

"Rudra, don't you think you should say something?" His father asked.

Rudra raised an eyebrow, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "Why? Rohan loves the drama. It's what he lives for. He'll find his way out of it, as always."

His mother shot Rudra a glare, her frustration boiling over at his indifference. "This isn't a game, Rudra! Rohan's stressing over the future of your career and the party!"

Rohan turned back to the group, his face slightly flushed. "Sorry about that," he said. "It's just the party is in a tight spot, and if we don't get those votes..."

Just then, Rudra glanced at Driti, who was quietly playing with her toys on the floor. "Driti, do you want to go for a walk in the garden?" he asked, completely shifting the focus of the conversation.

Driti looked up, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

Rudra smiled down at her. He stood up, completely ignoring Rohan as he took Driti's hand.

■

ARudra gently picked up Driti, who was fast asleep after their walk. He held her carefully in his arms, her small body resting against him. Rudra felt a warm sense of love as he looked at her peaceful face. He knew he needed to put her back in bed so she could continue sleeping.

He walked over to her bed and was about to lay her down when Avni entered the room.

"Rudra, can I put Driti to bed?" Avni asked.

Rudra didn't look at her. He kept his eyes on Driti, saying simply, "No." His tone was firm, leaving no room for discussion. Avni felt a little hurt by his response, but she didn't say anything.

He carefully laid Driti back on the bed, making sure she was comfortable. He brushed a few strands of hair away from her face, then leaned down and kissed her forehead gently. "Goodbye, bacha," he whispered.

"When will you be back home?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

Rudra didn't glance back. "I'll always come home late at night." He paused for a moment and then asked, "Why do you ask?".

"Simply" Avni replied.

Rudra turned away and left the room, leaving Avni standing there.

As he stepped outside, Rohan was already waiting in the car, tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. Rudra climbed into the passenger seat, closing the door behind him.

Rohan looked back at Avni, who was still standing near the car, and smiled. "Bye, bhabhi!".

"Bye," Avni replied, with a smile on her face.

Rudra turned his head slightly to see Rohan, giving him a nod. "Let's head to the office," he said.

Rohan shifted the car into gear and drove away. Avni watched as the car disappeared down.

As the car turned the corner, Avni sighed.

"Maybe it's time I start my own investigation," Avni muttered to herself.

She glanced around the house, making sure no one was watching her. "I need to find out what he's hiding," she whispered.

Avni thought about the different rooms in the house where Rudra might keep important documents. She decided to start with his study,. "If there are files or anything unusual, I might find some answers," she said to herself, feeling more determined.

Taking a deep breath, Avni walked toward the study. As she approached the door, she felt a rush of adrenaline. She gently pushed the door open, stepping inside. The room was filled with bookshelves, a large desk, and a few file cabinets. It was organized but had an air of mystery.

She walked over to the desk, where she noticed a stack of folders neatly arranged. Carefully, she opened one of the folders, her heart pounding. Inside were documents related to various political matters, plans, meetings, and names she didn't recognize.

Avni's curiosity deepened. "What are you up to, Rudra?" she whispered to herself. She picked up one of the files and glanced at its contents, trying to absorb as much information as she could.

Suddenly, she heard a noise from outside the room, and her heart skipped a beat. Panic set in as she quickly closed the drawer and returned the folder to its original place. Avni took a moment to gather herself, hoping she hadn't been caught.

After ensuring everything was as it was, she stepped back, taking one last look around the study.

To be continued

Guys does anyone know why that big gap is coming between the paragraphs even though I edited it 🙃