chapter 27

Malhotra Mansion buzzed with activity as Ranya busied herself in the room, meticulously preparing the sargi for her daughter-in-law's first Karwachauth.

"Let's go, Ranya, Pragya and Ishan are on their way," Prakash announced, breaking her concentration.

"What about Anika and Advik?" Ranya inquired, puzzled by their absence.

"Your son is besotted; he cancelled the flight because she wanted to sleep more," Prakash explained, shaking his head in mock exasperation.

Ranya sighed, "All thanks to you for finding such a perfect and lovely daughter in law ."

As the afternoon sun bathed the mansion in its warm glow, Malhotra family members gathered in the hall.

Advik summoned the dresser, while the ladies deliberated over the perfect attire for the occasion.

"Advik and Ishan, since it's their first Karwachauth, take care of them all day and bring gifts for them, okay?" Prakash instructed, to which both sons nodded in agreement.

"What did you gift mom on her first Karwachauth?" Ishan teased, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.

"I wasn't that affluent back then. I got her smile earrings, probably costing around ₹100," Prakash reminisced, evoking smiles from both his sons.

For them, their parents were the epitome of true love. Despite their humble beginnings, their mother had never uttered a complaint. Both brothers had witnessed their childhood in a middle-class setting, and it was only when they joined the family business that their fortunes changed.

The following morning, while the world still slumbered, Ranya made her way to her daughter-in-law's room at 4:00 in the morning.

Pragya and Anika rose promptly, eager to begin the rituals of the day. They bathed swiftly and adorned themselves in their chosen attire.

Pragya draped herself in a pristine white kurta embellished with vibrant red floral prints, exuding an air of grace and purity. Meanwhile, Anika shimmered in a plain red Anarkali, adorned with a resplendent golden border that accentuated her elegance.

They descended the stairs and found Ranya already awaiting them. Seated beside her on the floor, they prepared themselves for the rituals ahead.

"In our culture, we narrate the Karwachauth story until sunrise. Sunrise is at 5:30, and within 45 minutes, we must worship the Sun," Ranya explained, guiding them through the traditionss.

With the story complete, they ascended to the terrace to continue their observance. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the presence of both Malhotra brothers.

"Good morning," the brothers greeted Ranya warmly.

Completing their rituals, the ladies bid farewell to Ranya as she descended the stairs.

"What a glorious morning. I witnessed such a breathtaking view," Ishan remarked, his gaze lingering on Pragya, who responded with a smile.

"Come, join us," Advik invited, gesturing for them to take a seat.

They settled down, engaging in light-hearted conversation.

"Shall we play a game? How about 20 questions?" Ishan suggested, prompting nods of agreement from all present.

"If you could travel back in time, which century would you choose and why?" Anika inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"I think I would choose the 17th century. There was less air pollution, and the atmosphere had that royal aura. Plus, the textile business flourished then; it would be a truly enchanting experience," Pragya responded thoughtfully, garnering nods of agreement from the others.

Advik, with a mischievous glint in his eye, seized the opportunity to tease. "How many times have you and Pragya kissed?" he asked, unable to contain his smirk.

Pragya blushed, casting a playful glare at her husband. "I'd say about five times," Ishan replied with a smirk of his own.

"Why are you two being so shameless?" Pragya retorted, her cheeks still tinged with embarrassment.

"Alright, let's switch gears. If you could live in any TV show, which one would you choose?" Ishan redirected the conversation towards Anika.

"Best of Luck Nikki," Anika replied with a smile, reminiscing about the beloved sitcom.

"Look into Di's eyes and say the most romantic line," Pragya challenged Advik, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

Seeming to be in on Pragya's elaborate plan, Advik gazed deeply into Anika's eyes. "To me, you are what the moon is for poets," he declared, his words carrying a weight of sincerity as they locked eyes, melting Anika's heart.

However, Pragya suddenly feigned tears. "What's wrong?" Ishan asked, concerned.

"It's a line for poets, so it should be from you to me," Pragya explained, her lips forming a pout.

"So, what romantic line do you expect from Bhaiya for Bhabhi? What imagination is for writers?" Ishan quipped, eliciting laughter from the others.

"Ah, sister-in-law, you create the perfect moments and then ruin them," Advik teased, his expression feigning disappointment.

Pragya pouted once more, and Ishan leaned in to peck her lips before scooping her up in a bridal-style embrace, adding a playful touch to the lighthearted moment.

"Ishan, what are you doing?" Pragya questioned as he lifted her in a bridal-style carry.

"Taking you to our room," Ishan replied with a playful grin.

"But I can walk," Pragya protested.

"Yeah, but what if you fall because of your fast?" Ishan countered, concern evident in his voice.

"Who feels dizzy after just an hour of fasting?" Pragya retorted, her eyebrow raised in amusement.

"Is that so? Okay, then I'll put you down," Ishan conceded, and Pragya nodded in agreement.

Setting her gently on her feet, Pragya felt something soft beneath her and realized they were already in their room.

"Our anniversary is coming, Mrs. Malhotra," Ishan reminded her, his voice filled with affection.

"Just the day after tomorrow," Pragya confirmed.

"Let's sleep again," Ishan suggested, pulling her close for a cuddle.

"Alright, but I need to change out of this dress. Who sleeps in a suit?" Pragya joked.

"Sleep in it, you look amazing," Ishan replied, before reaching over to switch off the lights, enveloping them in darkness as they settled in bed.

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Anika was idly playing with her dupatta when she felt Advik's hand gently covering hers. Looking up at him, she found his gaze fixed intently on her.

"you are looking so hot," Advik complimented, his eyes locked with hers.

"Hot? In traditional attire, people usually say 'gorgeous', 'pretty', 'beautiful', 'angel'. Those are the compliments that come with traditional attire. Give me a better one, Mr. Malhotra," Anika teased, chuckling softly. However, her laughter ceased as she heard his next words.

"You look like mine," Advik stated, his voice low and possessive, causing Anika to blink in surprise.

"The vermilion in your hair screams that you are mine. This necklace around your neck screams that you are mine," Advik continued, his lips brushing against the chain around her neck as he spoke. Anika closed her eyes, feeling a mixture of pleasure and discomfort as his lips trailed along her neck.

"Advik," she whispered his name, her breath catching in her throat as she succumbed to his touch.

"Ouch, Advik," she exclaimed a little louder as she felt a slight pain in her neck, causing Advik to immediately cease his ministrations.

"This mark on your neck screams that you are mine," Advik declared, his words sending a shiver down Anika's spine as her heart raced with anticipation.

Suddenly, a realisation struck her. This scene was reminiscent of the one she had written in her new book, based on arranged marriage. But last time, he had said it was gifted by one of his client. How did he know about it this time?

"I bought all of them, they were not gifted," Advik confessed, his gaze unwavering as he looked at her.

Anika's eyes widened in surprise as she processed his revelation.

"That bastard fell in love with you by reading your work and I hate it." Advik explained, his tone tinged with a hint of bitterness.

"On his birthday, he was going to propose to you for marriage. i am glad it didn't happen, otherwise, we would have had to visit there once again for...," Advik trailed off, his words hanging heavily in the air.

"For his funeral," he finished, and Anika felt a chill run down her spine, her whole body trembling with the weight of the revelation.

"Let's go and sleep, you need rest," Advik suggested softly, and without another word, they made their way to their room.

As night fell, the silence enveloped them, each lost in their own thoughts, contemplating the twists and turns of fate that had brought them together.

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On the terrace, bathed in the gentle glow of moonlight, Pragya and Anika waited eagerly for the moon's appearance, their hearts racing with anticipation. Both adorned in their exquisite wedding lehengas, they exude an aura of timeless elegance.

"Mom, look! The moon is here. Let's begin," Pragya exclaimed, her excitement palpable.

"Patience, my dear. The moon is only showing half; let it reach its full glory," Ranya advised, her voice calm and soothing.

"Don't worry, Pragya. you are not mistaken. It's just this ladies' obsession to see the full moon only on Karwachauth," Prakash interjected with a playful grin.

"Prakash,I will kill you " Ranya said in irritation. She is already hungry and Prakash us cracking lame jokes

"Yes, by fasting for me? Mrs. Malhotra, no need to feel shy; we all know how much you love me," Prakash teased, his words filled with affection, prompting a warm smile from Ranya as she leaned into his side, her heart full of love for her dear husband.

As the moon ascended to its full glory, casting a luminous glow over the terrace, the ladies' eyes sparkled with anticipation. With bated breath, they turned their gaze towards the heavens, where the radiant orb of the full moon hung majestically in the sky.

With the moon sighted, their husbands approached, their faces illuminated by the soft moonlight. With tender smiles, they offered glasses of water and a small portion of sweet to their beloved wives.

Anika's heart swelled with gratitude as Advik handed her the glass, his eyes reflecting the love and devotion he felt for her. She took a sip of the water, feeling its coolness soothe her parched throat, before indulging in the sweetness of the delicacy offered by her husband.

Pragya's eyes shimmered with emotion as Ishan gently held out the glass, his touch tender and reassuring. She sipped the water, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment wash over her, knowing that she was cherished and cherished in return by her loving husband.

In this moment of unity and devotion, under the watchful gaze of the full moon, the bonds of love between husband and wife were strengthened, reaffirming the sacred vows they had taken to stand by each other's side through thick and thin.

As they retreated to their room, Ishan handed Pragya a small gift, wrapped with care.

"What's inside?" Pragya inquired, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"See for yourself," Ishan replied with a smile, urging her to unwrap the gift.

With eager fingers, Pragya unwrapped the package to reveal a stunning pendant, its shimmering diamonds reflecting the love and thoughtfulness behind Ishan's gesture.

"A small diamond for my diamond," Ishan remarked tenderly, his eyes alight with affection as Pragya's smile widened in response.

Pragya moved to her dressing table, delicately placing the pendant around her neck. Sensing Ishan's presence behind her, she nodded in assent as he approached.

"May I?" Ishan asked softly, his gaze locked with hers in the mirror. Pragya nodded, feeling a rush of warmth as he gently fastened the necklace around her neck.

As their eyes met in the reflection, a silent exchange of love and tenderness passed between them. Ishan pressed a tender kiss to her cheek, causing Pragya to blush with delight.

Guiding her to the bed, Ishan tenderly brushed aside her hair, his fingers tracing the curve of her back as he caressed her with gentle affection.

"Why are you so cute?" Ishan asked, pinching her cheeks playfully.

"I don't know, Mr. Malhotra. You find me cute, so the answer must be with you," Pragya replied with a playful smile.

Ishan smiled in response before capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. With hands intertwined, their embrace deepened, each lost in the intoxicating whirlwind of love and desire.

---

Advik passed Anika a gift. She eagerly unwrapped it, revealing a delicate pair of jhumkas.

"It's beautiful," exclaimed Anika, her eyes lighting up with delight.

"Jhumkas look beautiful on you," complimented Advik, his voice filled with admiration.

A soft smile graced Anika's lips as she admired the gift.

"Day after tomorrow is our anniversary," reminded Advik, prompting a nod of acknowledgment from Anika.

"What would you like to wear? I'll call the designer tomorrow," offered Advik, his tone gentle and considerate.

"A saree," replied Anika with a hint of excitement.

"Alright. Do you need a jeweller as well?" inquired Advik, to which Anika shook her head.

"Choose something for me too, as tomorrow I have an important meeting," suggested Advik, seeking her opinion.

"Your blackish-brown eyes do something to me," confessed Advik, gazing deeply into Anika's eyes.

Anika's voice softened to a whisper, "So do yours, hazel eyes."

Advik leaned in and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, expressing his affection.

"Almost one year. Thanks for handling me," reflected Advik, a touch of humour in his tone.

Anika chuckled softly, "Yes, that was tough for me."

"Really?" teased Advik, starting to tickle her playfully.

"Advik, please... haha... please stop," pleaded Anika between laughter, as he relented.

"Okay, now let's sleep," suggested Advik, his voice calm and soothing.

"Goodnight, Mrs. Malhotra," he bid her, closing his eyes.

"Goodnight, Mr. Malhotra," Anika reciprocated, closing her eyes with a contented smile, ready to drift off into slumber.