Chapter -33

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Aarushi walked into the mansion, her heart fluttering like a butterfly trapped in a jar. A shy smile danced on her lips, her cheeks tinged with a rosy hue.

She felt as if she were walking on clouds, the anticipation of her dinner date with Abhimanyu bubbling inside her like a freshly opened soda. It was their first official date since their marriage, and everything felt so wonderfully new, like the first day of spring after a long winter.

As she made her way through the grand hall, the soft sound of her anklets jingling was the only thing that broke the serene silence of the mansion.

She was lost in her thoughts, picturing how the evening would unfold, the two of them sharing some moments together.

She didn't notice Badi Ma and Chachi, who were sitting in the living room, exchanging glances as they saw her approach.

"Isko kya hua?" Chachi whispered, her brow furrowing in confusion.

Badi Ma shrugged, a knowing smile creeping onto her face. "Khush lag rahi hai, kuch bhadiya hi hua hoga," she replied softly, her eyes twinkling with delight.

Aarushi continued on, unaware of the puzzled looks on their faces. She felt like she was floating, each step lighter than the last. She could hardly contain her joy, the thought of Abhimanyu's smile igniting a warmth in her chest.

Pushing open the door to her room, she was greeted by the familiar sight of their room , but what caught her attention was a bag sitting on the bed, its presence pulling her towards it like a magnet. She placed her purse on the table, her fingers trembling with excitement as she approached the bag.

Inside, she found a note, hand-written in Abhimanyu's neat script.

"This reminded me of you. I thought it would look incredible on you, but only if you are comfortable....."

-♡Your husband

Her heart raced as she carefully tucked the note away in her drawer, as if it were a treasure.Her fingers slipped into the soft fabric, revealing a stunning white dress that shimmered like the moonlight. It felt ethereal, delicate, and just the kind of thing she had dreamt of wearing on a special occasion.

(Her outfit)

But then doubt crept in. What if her in-laws didn't like her wearing these types of dresses, but Badi Ma had said she could wear anything, so it would be alright.....

Aarushi glanced at the clock, realizing it was already 5 PM. Abhimanyu would be here in two hours, and she couldn't get ready alone. Panic bubbled within her; she needed help.

"Navya" she called, her voice tinged with urgency.

After a brief wait, she heard a knock on the door. "Boliye bhabhi, kya hua?" Navya's voice was laced with concern.

"I need your help!" Aarushi replied, biting her lower lip, feeling the heat rise to her cheek. "Your bhai and I have a date tonight, and I have this dress..."

Before she could finish, Navya burst, a teasing grin plastered on her face. "Oh ho! Abhimanyu Singh Rathore, being all lovey-dovey?"

Aarushi's cheeks burned hotter, and she pointed to the dress, her embarrassment palpable. " Your bhai gave me this dress, and I want to wear it. Please help me!"

Navya again teased her bumping her shoulder with her playfully. Aarushi passed her a playful glare and blushed. Navya laughed looking at her red face.

"Okay, okay! I won't tease you... much,"Navya laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Let's get you ready, bhabhi!"

The next hour and a half flew by in a flurry of excitement and laughter. Navya flitted around the room, picking up makeup brushes, rummaging through Aarushi's accessories, and offering compliments that made Aarushi blush even deeper.

"Wow, bhai to behosh ho jayenge!" Navya exclaimed, holding up a pair of earrings that sparkled like stars.

Aarushi giggled, the sound bubbling out of her as she turned to the mirror.Her heart fluttered inside her chest with both anxiety and excitement.

Navya said her voice filled with curiosity. "But wait! Did anyone know about your date?"

Aarushi's heart dropped. "Oh no! I forgot to tell everyone," she gasped, panic returning to her.

"Don't worry, I'll tell them. Just focus on looking gorgeous," Navya assured her, pulling out her phone. She dialed Badi Ma's number, her voice serious yet playful. "Badi Ma, come to Bhabhi's room with chachi. There's something you need to see!"

Aarushi's breath hitched as the clock ticked closer to 6:45 PM. Just as she was about to apply the final touch of lipstick, Navya ushered Badi Ma and Chachi into the room.

They paused at the doorway, their eyes widening as they took in the sight before them. Aarushi stood there, the white dress hugging her curves perfectly, her hair cascading in soft waves around her shoulders.

"Wah,beta" Badi Ma exclaimed, stepping forward. "You look beautiful!"

Chachi nodded in agreement, her mouth slightly agape. "Bilkul, Abhimanyu ke hosh ud jayenge Aaj"

Aarushi felt her cheeks heat up at their compliments, the warmth spreading through her like the first rays of sunlight in the morning.

"Navya told us you have a date tonight," Badi Ma continued, her smile wide. "Is Abhimanyu coming to pick you up?"

Aarushi nodded, the excitement bubbling within her now mingled with a hint of nervousness. "Yes, he should be here soon," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Chachi stepped closer, her expression turning serious for a moment. "We'll take off the evil eye from you," she said, her hands moving in a protective gesture.

As they finished their little ritual, Aarushi felt a wave of warmth wash over her. They really treat her like a daughter.

"Just remember, sweetheart," Chachi added, her voice filled with wisdom. "Have fun tonight. It's your first date after marriage. Enjoy every moment"

Aarushi's heart swelled with gratitude. After a few more moments of chatter and laughter, Badi Ma and Chachi reluctantly stepped out, leaving Aarushi and Navya alone in the room.

After a few minutes ~

Aarushi's heart raced as the familiar ping of her phone cut through the evening silence. She glanced down, her breath catching when she read Abhimanyu's message: "I'm waiting outside.Are you ready?"

Navya, peered over her shoulder, eyes wide with excitement. "Is bhai here?"

Aarushi nodded, a nervous smile creeping onto her face.

Her hands fidgeted with the hem of her dress, the vibrant fabric swaying slightly with her movements. She was ready, yet the fluttering in her chest felt uncontrollable.

"Calm down and Let's go!" Navya urged, her enthusiasm infectious.

Aarushi took a deep breath, nodding again. She felt a rush of warmth and anxiety as she made her way downstairs, the sound of her heels echoing softly against the marble floor.

"Bye, bhabhi. Enjoy" Navya called, waving her off with a grin.

"Bye"Aarushi replied, her voice slightly shaky as she turned to face the grand entrance.

Stepping outside felt like stepping into another world. The evening air greeted her with a refreshing coolness, but her gaze quickly found Abhimanyu.

He stood by his car, glancing at his phone, his foot tapping rhythmically against the pavement.

On the other hand , A mix of nerves and excitement twisted in Abhimanyu's stomach. He never felt this much anxious . What if she didn't enjoy being with him?

He shook his foot a little harder, willing the tension to dissipate. He had sent her that message four minutes ago; she had already seen it. What if she is not ready till now. He cursed himself for sending it too soon.

Just then, he looked up. Aarushi was approaching him, and his heart skipped a beat. She looked more beautiful than he had imagined in the dress he had chosen for her. It hugged her figure perfectly, the color enhancing her natural glow. His mouth parted in awe, momentarily forgetting his nerves as he took her in.

Aarushi stepped in front of him and She raised an eyebrow playfully and, in a bold move, closed his mouth with her finger "At least close your mouth Mr Rathore" she teased, a hint of mischief in her eyes.

He gulped, recovering from his momentary stupor." Mujhe pata tha ki aap behad khubsurat hai per aaj aapne sari hade paar ker di "he said in deep voice.

Aarushi felt her cheeks warm at the compliment. "Aap bhi itne bure nahi lag rahe" she teased him as always .She noticed that he is not wearing his blue suit which he was wearing this morning. He is also wearing a white shirt , matching with her.

Abhimanyu chuckled, his heart soaring. He opened the car door for her, and she slid into the plush leather seat, the scent of fresh linen and a hint of cologne enveloping her.

They fell into a comfortable silence, smiles lingering on their lips as Abhimanyu drove.

The rhythmic hum of the engine filled the space between them, punctuated by the sound of tires rolling over the smooth pavement. He stole glances at her, each one making his heart race faster.

"Can I hold your hand?" he asked suddenly, his voice tentative. Aarushi turned to him, her expression brightening. She placed her hand in his, feeling the warmth of his palm enveloping her smaller one. He began to caress her fingers gently, sending electrical tingles up her arm.

After some time they arrived at a lavish restaurant. Abhimanyu parked their car and stepped outside, quickly moving to open the door for Aarushi. He placed a gentle hand on her back as they walked in, his touch igniting a spark of warmth beneath her skin.

The receptionist greeted them with a polite bow, her smile welcoming. "Here Sir , Mam. Please follow me" she said making her way towards a secluded area.

She opened a door of a room and stepped aside . Abhimanyu gestured her to leave from there and she left after bowing to them. As Aarushi entered the large cabin, her breath hitched.

The room was adorned with balloons and her favourite flowers , tulips. "Oh my god " she whispered, turning to him, eyes shining with disbelief.

Abhimanyu smiled and stepped forward and picked up a bouquet, presenting it to her with a soft smile. "For my dear wife" he said, watching her face light up.

"Thank you,"she murmured, taking the bouquet and inhaling the sweet fragrance.

"Please, take a seat," he said, pulling out a chair for her. She settled in, still mesmerized by the decorations, and he joined her at the table, a sigh of relief escaping him.

"Do you like the decoration?" Abhimanyu asked, his eyes searching hers for approval.

"It's beautiful," Aarushi replied, glancing around the room.

Abhimanyu smiled , a hint of pride in his smile as she liked the decoration specially selected by him. "Let's order something first," he said, picking up the menu and forwarding it to her.

Aarushi opened the menu , her eyes scanning the options. Something felt different about this menu; it made her brow furrow in confusion. "Wait... these are all my favorite dishes," she said slowly, looking back up at him. "From different shops?"

"Exactly. It's your favorite food from your favorite places," he replied, his tone casual yet filled with affection.

"How will the food from different places come here?" she asked, her confusion deepening.

"It will just... order," he said with a grin.

Aarushi blinked at him, incredulous. "What do you mean, 'just order'? That's not how it works"

"Trust me," he replied, his confidence shining through. "Just tell me what you want to eat"

Rolling her eyes playfully, she ordered a few dishes, shaking her head at the absurdity but loving the surprise. Abhimanyu called over the waiter, leaning back with his arms crossed. "Whatever she ordered, make it two," he instructed.

The waiter bowed and left, leaving her in a bubble of anticipation.

After a few minutes, their food arrived, and Aarushi's eyes sparkled when she took her first bite of mirchi vada. The flavor was exactly as she remembered, the spice hitting her taste buds perfectly.

"How did you do this?" she asked, her mouth full, eyes wide with surprise.

Abhimanyu shrugged nonchalantly, but as she glared at him, he couldn't help but smile. "I called your friend Sid and got to know about your favorite dishes from different places. So, I hired them all for tonight so you can have your favorite food peacefully."

Aarushi felt a rush of warmth spread through her. His thoughtfulness made her heart swell, and she couldn't help but smile. "You didn't have to do that much,"she said softly, gratitude lacing her voice.

"I had to. After all, It's my first date with my jaan. I want everything to be perfect for you,"he replied, sincerity evident in his gaze.

As they began to eat, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Abhimanyu leaned forward, intrigued. "So, tell me about yourself," he prompted, wanting to know more.

Aarushi raised an eyebrow, playfully challenging him. "You already know about me. What should I tell you?"

"My name is Aarushi Abhimanyu Rathore," she began, a smile playing on her lips. "I completed my graduation from Delhi and working as a teacher in Jodhpur. I love dancing a lot; it's like my way of coping with stress. I always wanted to live a peaceful life with my loved ones, away from all types of jhanjhat." She spoke with passion, her voice steady. "I don't like when people handle everything with violence."

Abhimanyu cleared his throat, a slight tension tugging at him as he had always handled things with a strong hand, but he kept that thought to himself.

"I love to visit the temples once a week, "she continued, her eyes sparkling.

She shared more about her dreams, her laughter ringing like music in the air.

She picked up a mawa kachori and moaned softly as she took a bite of it, her face lighting up with delight. "You know, Choudhary uncle always made the best kachori," she said, blissfully unaware of the effect her words had on him.

Abhimanyu shifted uncomfortably in his seat, heat flooding his cheeks at her unexpected sound. "Really?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

"Yeah!Have a bite. You will love it" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.

After a moment of comfortable silence, she turned the conversation back to him. "Okay, now it's your turn. Tell me about you. What are your favorite things?"

Abhimanyu looked at her, a soft smile creeping onto his lips. "I never had much interest in anything in my whole life, but now I had something precious in my life"

"It's you baby. I know you are not a thing.... You are my only favorite person," he continued, his voice earnest. "My everything seems to revolve around you. It's like... spending time with you is the best part of my day. I like the way your eyes crinkle at the corners when you laugh , a genuine laugh that makes your whole face light up. Your eyes are my favorite view; it's like I can look at them without blinking for a second. Just sitting with you , feeling your presence around me, it's sense of peace i never felt before. You are my home. My all favorite things are tied to you , Jaan "

Aarushi's breath hitched, overwhelmed by the depth of his words. She felt the butterflies in her stomach . "You're too much," she said, her cheeks flushing. Her heart swelled with affection.

Abhimanyu smiled and said " It's completely fine as long as I am yours" Aarushi blushed hard , feeling an overwhelming sense of contentment settle over her.

She was feeling something ––warm, safe, and utterly intoxicating. They continued to talk, sharing stories and dreams.

Aarushi finished her dessert, the last bite of mawa kachori lingering sweetly on her tongue. She wiped her hands on the napkin, glancing up to catch Abhimanyu's gaze.

He watched her with an intensity that made her heart flutter in her chest. She felt a warmth spread across her cheeks, a mix of shyness and excitement as she noticed the way he smiled, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes.

"Just a moment,"he said, standing up with a purpose. Abhimanyu walked to the corner of the room, where a remote rested on a small table. With a swift press of a button, the lights dimmed, casting a soft glow that enveloped them in a warm embrace.

Aarushi's breath caught slightly; the atmosphere shifted into something intimate and inviting.

Another button pressed, and soft romantic music began to fill the air, wrapping around them like a comforting blanket.

It was a sweet melody, one that seemed to resonate with the rhythm of their hearts. Abhimanyu turned to her, extending his hand with a charming smile that made her heart race.

"May I have the pleasure of this dance with you" he asked, his voice low and inviting.

Aarushi's smile widened, her heart soaring as she placed her hand in his. It had always been her dream, a moment she had envisioned countless times: a romantic dance with the man she loved on their first date.

They made their way to the center of the softly lit room, the world around them fading into a blur as all that mattered was this moment.

Abhimanyu placed his hands gently on her waist, pulling her closer until there was barely any space between them. Aarushi instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, her fingers lightly brushing against the soft fabric of his shirt.

They began to sway slowly to the music, the rhythm guiding their movements as they lost themselves in each other's eyes.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?"" Aarushi said softly, her eyes sparkling with delight.

He nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "It is, because of you love"

She felt a warmth spread throughout her body, an exhilaration that made her want to stay in this moment forever. The world outside ceased to exist; it was just Abhimanyu and her, dancing under the dim light, their hearts beating in sync.

It was as if their eyes were communicating, sharing secrets and dreams without the need for words.

Abhimanyu's expression shifted, a softness melting away his usual stoic demeanor. He looked like a man who had found his purpose. It's like he can't even think about a life where she didn't exist. Whereas Aarushi was enjoying every moment. She doesn't want this end. She wants to be like this with him forever.

"You know," Aarushi teased, breaking the silence, "no one knows that my Abhimanyu Singh Rathore, who acts cold and arrogant in front of everyone, is secretly the most romantic person ever."

He chuckled, the sound rich and warm, twirling her effortlessly before pulling her back into the warmth of his arms, their chests pressing together.

"You're an exception baby," he whispered, his breath brushing against her ear, sending delightful shivers down her spine.

Aarushi felt goosebumps rise on her arms as she looked up at him, her heart racing. He leaned in slightly, his gaze drifting to her lips, and for a moment, everything else faded away.

Aarushi's breath hitched in her throat. Was this it? The moment when she finally has her first kiss? The thought of their lips finally meeting sent her heart racing into a wild frenzy.

"Can I?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper, as if he were afraid to break the spell.

Aarushi's mind raced. Could he really be asking to kiss her? On lips ?Her heart thudded loudly in her ears, drowning out the music.

The idea of her first kiss, their lips meeting for the first time, made her skin tingle with anticipation. She glanced down, her thoughts swirling as she attempted to find the right words to answer him.

"Y-yes" she managed to whisper, her voice barely above a breath. She looked back up at him, her eyes wide and filled with longing.

As she closed her eyes, she felt his breath fan over her face, warm and inviting. She imagined how soft his lips would feel against hers, how everything in the universe would align in that single moment. But just as she prepared for the kiss, she felt something different-a gentle press against her forehead.

Abhimanyu's lips lingered there, kissing her softly, as if cherishing the moment. Aarushi's eyes flew open in surprise, the warmth of his kiss sending a jolt through her. She looked up at him in confusion, the expectation of a kiss on her lips dissolving into a sweet, unexpected tenderness.

He pulled away slightly, his eyes fixed on her face. She pouted, feeling a mix of disappointment and confusion.

"Forehead per to aapne pahle bhi kiss ker rakhi hai.... Isse bhadiya to gaal per hi ker deta ya lips per to isse bhi acha rah--" She said but stopped in between when she realized what had slipped from her mouth before she could stop it.

She looked at him, wide-eyed, the realization crashing over her like a wave. The atmosphere shifted as a hint of embarrassment began to creep into the warmth of their moment.

Aarushi pressed her hand on her mouth and shook her head in disbelief, trying to recover from her own words, feeling her cheeks flush a deeper shade of crimson.

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Lips per hota to.... Acha rahta👀🙈 *🤐*

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