CHAPTER 38: "IN HIS ARMS, SHE FINDS PEACE"

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The night had grown quiet, and it was finally time to rest. Vishwanath emerged from the dressing room, now dressed in a comfortable night suit, a soft white shirt paired with grey trousers. His broad frame exuded a calm yet protective aura as he walked towards the bed, where Kashi sat quietly, her fingers fidgeting with the blanket.

The bed was still beautifully decorated with rose petals and flower strings cascading down like a canopy. Vishwanath looked at it thoughtfully before glancing at Kashi, his voice gentle but firm.

"Kashi, is it ok, agar hum dono ek hi bed share karein? Agar tumhe uncomfortable feel hoga toh main couch par soo jaata hoon," (Kashi, is it ok if we share the same bed? If you feel uncomfortable, I will sleep on the couch) he offered sincerely, pointing towards the couch in the corner.

Kashi immediately shook her head, her eyes meeting his with unwavering trust as she stood up and took a step closer to him. "Nahi, Veer ji. Mujhe koi problem nahi hai. Mujhe aap par pura bharosa hain," (No, Veer ji. I have no problem. I have full trust in you) she said softly, her words laced with innocence and warmth.

After a brief pause, she lowered her gaze, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her long shirt. "Mana mujhe thoda aur time chahiye lekin aapka paas hona, aapka saath, mujhe bohot comfort aur protection feel karata hai Veer ji" (I know i need a little more time but being near you, your presence, makes me feel a lot of comfort and protection, Veer ji.) she added, her voice barely above a whisper.

Her cheeks flushed slightly as she looked up at him again. "Aur aap mujhe kabhi uncomfortable feel nahi kara sakte Veer ji." (And you can never make me feel uncomfortable, Veer ji.)

Vishwanath's heart swelled with emotion at her words. Her innocence and trust in him were like a sacred bond he vowed to protect. He gave her a reassuring smile and nodded. "Kashi, tumhe jitna time chahiye, tum lo. Tumhara trust mere liye sabse important hai," (Kashi, take all the time you need. Your trust is the most important thing to me) he said, his tone firm yet tender, silently promising to honor her comfort and boundaries.

As Kashi moved towards the bed, her eyes fell on the rose petals scattered across it. Before she could say anything, Vishwanath had already started removing them one by one, his movements quiet and deliberate, ensuring nothing would cause inconvenience to her.

Kashi paused for a moment, her heart warming at the sight. The thoughtful gesture spoke volumes about his consideration for her comfort. Without saying a word, she joined him, carefully picking up the petals alongside him. Their fingers brushed occasionally, sending a spark of awareness between them, but neither said anything. There was an unspoken understanding, a quiet intimacy that made Kashi feel even more secure and cherished.

As the bed was cleared, both of them lay down on the bed feeling the new chapter of their lives. But as much as they tried to close their eyes, the newness of the situation, the realization of sharing a bed together for the first time, kept them both awake. The soft glow of the moonlight filtered through the windows, adding to the dreamlike ambiance.

For a while, they stared at the ceiling in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Then, as if pulled by an invisible thread, they both turned to face each other at the same time. Their eyes met, and for a moment, everything else seemed to fade away. The quiet shared gaze spoke volumes of trust, affection, and an unspoken promise.

Kashi felt her heart skip a beat under the intensity of Vishwanath's gaze, and he couldn't help but marvel at the simplicity and beauty of the moment. Though they both remained quiet, their hearts continued to speak in the stillness of the night, hers finding solace in his presence, and his silently vowing to protect the trust she had in him. Slowly, the weight of the day lulled them, and they drifted into a peaceful slumber.

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It was past midnight when Vishwanath stirred. A soft, muffled sound broke through his light sleep. He woke up, his eyes adjusting to the dim light, and his heart clenched when he looked at Kashi. She was drenched in sweat, her face contorted with fear. Her head moved restlessly on the pillow, and soft murmurs escaped her lips. He immediately sat up.

"Let me and Maa go....let me go... Veer ji....save me.... Veer ji," she whimpered, her voice laced with panic.

"Kashi!" Vishwanath called out, worry etching his voice. He quickly moved closer, cupping her face with his hands. "Kashi, utho. Dheko main yahi hoon. Wake up, Kashi" (Kashi, get up. Look, I'm right here. Wake up, Kashi) he said firmly, gently patting her cheeks.

But her murmurs only grew louder, her body trembling with fear. Then suddenly, she screamed his name, "Veer ji!" and bolted upright, her chest heaving as she gasped for air.

"Kashi, Kashi," Vishwanath said soothingly, placing his hands on her shoulders. Her panicked eyes darted around the room before landing on him. She blinked, and tears welled up in her eyes, spilling over as she whispered brokenly, "Veer ji....he said he will come and take me away from you."

Vishwanath's expression darkened as realization struck, she had a nightmare of Neel Oberoi. Without hesitation, he pulled her into his arms, cradling her trembling body close. "Kashi, meri taraf dheko," he said firmly, tilting her face upward and then cupping it gently "Jab tak main tumhare saath hoon Neel Oberoi tumhe haath lagana toh dur tumhara pass tak nahi aa sakta. Main usse abb aur kuch nahi karne dunga".

(Kashi, look at me," he said firmly, tilting her face upward and then cupping it gently. "As long as I am with you, Neel Oberoi won't even be able to come near you, let alone lay a hand on you. I won't let him do anything to you anymore.)

She clung to him tightly, her tears soaking into his shirt as if seeking refuge from the storm raging inside her. "Par Veer ji....uski awaaz....mere kaan mein baar baar gunj rahi hai,"(But Veer ji....his voice....is echoing in my ears again and again) she choked out, her voice trembling, the weight of her fear evident in every word. Her sobs wracked her small frame, and her grip on him only tightened, as if afraid he might slip away.

His jaw clenched as her words replayed in his mind, anger simmering beneath his calm exterior. "Main Neel Oberoi se uske har ek gunaah ka hisaab lunga," (I will make Neel Oberoi answer for every single one of his crimes) he said, his voice filled with a quiet, deadly resolve. "Tum daro mat, Kashi. Tumhare Veer ji tumhe kuch nahi hone denge." (Don't be afraid, Kashi. Your Veer ji won't let anything happen to you) He said gently caressing her hair, his steady hand moving in comforting strokes.

He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, continuing to stroke her hair until her sobs began to subside. But her body was still shaking, the fear evident in her every movement. Without another word, Vishwanath shifted them both down onto the bed.

He lay on his back, pulling Kashi onto his chest. Her small frame fit perfectly against him, her head resting over his heart. His strong arms encased her protectively.

The rhythmic beating of his heart and the warmth of his embrace began to soothe her. Slowly, her sobs turned into soft breaths, and eventually she slipped into a peaceful sleep, her fingers clutching his shirt tightly as if anchoring herself to him.

Vishwanath watched her for a long moment, his hand continuing to caress her head. A deep sigh escaped him, but the storm inside him raged. The image of her terrified face, the distress caused by that vile man, ignited a fury within him.

He had already enlisted Inspector Rituraj Solanki and his men to track down Neel Oberoi. But now, Vishwanath's resolve solidified. When he found Neel, he would make sure the man paid for every ounce of fear and pain he had inflicted on Kashi. And with that vow, he tightened his hold on Kashi, ensuring she remained enveloped in his protective embrace, his resolve stronger than ever. Soon sleep consumed him as well.

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The night passed, and as the morning arrived, Vishwanath was the first to wake up. His eyes roamed around the room before settling on Kashi, who was still asleep on his chest, her soft breaths tickling his neck. She was hugging him tightly, her delicate arms wrapped around him as if he was her safe haven.

Vishwanath couldn't help but gaze at her with all the love in the world. Her peaceful face, glowing even in sleep, mesmerized him. A few stray tendrils of her hair had fallen across her face, and with utmost care, he gently tucked them behind her ear. His eyes softened further as he noticed the sindoor in the parting of her hair, a mark of their bond, of her being his, all his to love, cherish, and protect.

Just as he was lost in the beauty of the moment, a soft knock on the door broke the tranquility. Vishwanath's eyes shifted towards the door before glancing back at Kashi. He carefully adjusted Kashi's head onto the pillow, ensuring she wouldn't wake up, and pulled the comforter over her gently to keep her warm.

He walked to the door quietly and opened it to find his mother, Shalini, standing there with a kind smile.

"Good morning, Vishu," she greeted warmly, her eyes naturally moving past him into the room, where they landed on Kashi sleeping peacefully.

"Good morning, Maa," Vishwanath replied, stepping outside the room to avoid disturbing Kashi.

"Did you both sleep well?" Shalini asked, her tone light and caring.

"Yes, Maa. It was a hectic day yesterday, and the rest was much needed, especially for Kashi. She was really distressed after everything that happened," he explained, his concern for Kashi evident in his voice.

Shalini nodded in understanding, her expression softening. "Yes, beta, Kashi has been through a lot. Let her rest for a little longer," she said gently, her voice filled with concern for the young bride. She reached for a neatly wrapped package and handed it to Vishwanath.

"I brought these matching dresses for you and Kashi," she explained, her smile warm yet apologetic. "And also some Jewellery for Kashi for today's post-wedding rituals. I just realized she doesn't have clothes here, and it completely slipped my mind yesterday in the rush of other preparations."

Vishwanath accepted the package with a nod, his lips curving into a small smile of gratitude. "Thank you, Maa," he said, glancing briefly at the contents before his gaze returned to her.

Shalini placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "Take care of her, beta. She is adjusting to so much at once. But I know you will make her feel at home," she said with a knowing look, her tone filled with maternal warmth.

"I will, Maa," Vishwanath replied with quiet determination. His mind was already focused on ensuring Kashi's comfort and happiness, even as the weight of their new responsibilities settled over him.

"Maa actually, could you also arrange for new clothes for Kashi of all kinds?" Vishwanath asked a little hesitantly, his tone thoughtful.

"Of course, beta, don't worry about it. I will take care of everything," Shalini assured him with a smile. "Now, come down soon," she added before turning to leave, her heart warmed by her son's care for his wife.

As Shalini walked away, Vishwanath quietly closed the door behind him, his eyes immediately landing on Kashi, who was snuggling into the comforter, sleeping peacefully. A soft smile tugged at his lips as he took in her serene face. She had endured enough in her life, and seeing her finally at peace filled him with immense happiness. She deserved all the joy in the world, and he silently vowed to ensure she would never have to face any hardships again.

Deciding to prepare for the day, Vishwanath headed to the bathroom. The cool shower refreshed him, washing away his fatigue. He quickly donned the dark green kurta his mother had given him. The intricate golden embroidery glistened in the soft morning light, perfectly complementing his regal aura and commanding presence.

As he stepped out of the dressing room, towel in hand, drying his damp hair, his eyes were drawn to the bed. Kashi was stirring awake, her delicate frame shifting beneath the soft covers. Her eyes fluttered open slowly, still heavy with sleep, adjusting to the light in the room. She glanced around, slightly disoriented, taking in her unfamiliar surroundings. Just as she was piecing it all together, Vishwanath's deep, affectionate voice reached her ears.

"Good morning, wifey," he said with a teasing smile, his tone warm and playful.

Kashi's eyes immediately darted to him, and as they met his intense gaze, the memories of the previous day flooded back. She is married now, to her Veer Ji. Her heart raced at the thought, and she quickly lowered her eyes shyly. "Good morning, Veer Ji," she replied in a soft, groggy voice, still adjusting to the weight of this new reality.

Vishwanath walked over to her and sat beside her on the bed. His eyes searched hers with genuine care. "Did you sleep well, wifey?" he asked gently.

Kashi nodded slightly, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink. As her gaze lifted, she took in his appearance his wet hair, the embroidered kurta enhancing his strong, majestic frame, and the way he carried himself effortlessly. She found herself staring, captivated by how handsome he looked.

Noticing her lingering gaze, Vishwanath smirked. "Toh wifey, agar tumne mujhe properly check out kar liya ho, toh yeh bhi bata do, main kaisa lag raha hoon?" (So, wifey, if you've properly checked me out, then tell this also, how do I look?) he teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Caught red-handed, Kashi's face turned crimson. "Main....voh..." (I....was....)she stammered, her innocence making her words falter. Trying to cover her embarrassment, she blurted out, "Aap....aap hamesha hi acche lagte ho, Veer Ji." (You....you always look great, Veer Ji.)

Vishwanath chuckled softly at her honest confession, his heart melting at her innocence. "Achha?" (Really?) he said, leaning in slightly. "Toh iska matlab tum mujhe har din observe karti ho?" (So, does that mean you observe me every day?)

"Nahi...voh...mera matlab...voh" (No....I mean....I....) Kashi's words trailed off as she fidgeted with the comforter, unable to meet his teasing gaze, a cute pout forming on her beautiful face.

Vishwanath seeing her cute expressions broke into laughter, the deep, rich sound filling the room. His amusement only made Kashi's cheeks burn hotter as she clutched the comforter tightly, avoiding his gaze.

Still chuckling, he leaned closer and gently pulled her cheeks, his touch playful yet affectionate. "Bohot cute ho tum, wifey," (You are very cute wifey) he teased, his eyes sparkling with warmth.

Kashi gasped softly, her blush deepening as she whispered, "Veer ji...." unable to say anything else. Overwhelmed by his teasing, she hid her face in her hands, making him chuckle again.

Kashi slowly peeked through her fingers, her lips curving into a shy smile. As her gaze lifted, her eyes locked with his eyes which were soft with adoration and a gentle smile gracing his face. He was clearly captivated, cherishing every little expression she made.

Their playful moment was interrupted when her eyes suddenly fell on the wall clock. It was almost 9 AM. Her eyes widened in alarm. "Veer Ji, aapne mujhe uthaya kyun nahi? Main itni der tak so rahi thi!"(Veer Ji, why didn't you wake me up? I was sleeping for so long!) she exclaimed, quickly trying to get out of bed.

But Vishwanath placed a firm yet gentle hand on her shoulder, stilling her movements. "Shant, wifey, shant (Calm down, wifey, calm down). Don't panic," he said, his calm voice reassuring.

"Par Veer Ji, apke ghar mein sab mere baare mein kya sochenge?" (But Veer Ji, what will everyone at your house think about me?) Kashi asked, her voice laced with worry.

Vishwanath interrupted her softly but firmly. "Sab yahi sochte hai ki tum bohot pyaari ho." (Everyone thinks that you are very sweet.)

"Par...." (But.....)

"Relax Kashi," he said, cutting her off again. "Sabko pata hai ki kal ka din tumhare liye kitna hectic tha. Aur yeh tumhara ghar hai, Kashi. Aur apne ghar mein hum relax karte hain, stress nahi lete." (Everyone knows how hectic yesterday was for you. And this is your home, Kashi. And in our home, we relax, we don't stress.)

His calm, reassuring tone and choice of words made Kashi's shoulders relax a bit. The tension that had built up in her slowly began to ease slightly, and she nodded softly.

However, Vishwanath knew how foreign the idea of relaxing was to her. At an age when she should have been carefree and full of dreams, she had been burdened with responsibilities and financial constraints. But not anymore. She would have everything she deserved, and that was a promise Vishwanath silently made to himself.

"Veer Ji....Veer Ji...." Kashi's soft voice broke through his thoughts.

"Haan, Kashi? Tum kuch keh rahi thi?" (Yes, Kashi? Were you saying something? ) he asked, snapping back to the present.

"Voh....main kya pehnu?" (I....what should I wear?) she asked hesitantly. "Kapde?" (clothes)

"Aree haan, ruko," (Ohh yes, wait) Vishwanath said, quickly walking over to the dresser. He retrieved the package his mother had brought for her. Handing them to Kashi, he said, "Yeh lo. Maa ne diya hai. Tum yeh pehn lo." (Here, take this. Maa gave it for you. Wear this.)

Just as Kashi nodded, Vishwanath's phone buzzed with a call from a client. "Kashi, tum ready ho jao. Mujhe yeh call lena padega,"(Kashi, you get ready. I need to take this call.) he said, stepping aside to take the call. While Vishwanath spoke on the phone, Kashi went to freshen up.

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Vishwanath sat on the couch, engrossed in a file, his brows furrowed in concentration as he reviewed the intricate details of the document. Just then, the soft jingling of anklets broke through the silence, drawing his attention like a magnet. He looked up from his file, only to be rendered speechless.

Kashi emerged from the dressing room, draped in the dark green saree that complemented her delicate frame perfectly. Her damp, long hair cascaded down her back, and she was drying it with a towel.

And then, as she reached for her Jewellery, adorning herself with graceful movements, he couldn't look away. Each bangle she slid onto her wrist jingled softly, each piece of Jewellery she wore adding to her ethereal beauty.

"She looks unreal," he thought, his breath hitching slightly. "No, not unreal...divine. Like a goddess who accidentally wandered into this world. My goddess. Mine and Mine alone."

Oblivious to the way Vishwanath was spellbound by her, Kashi gently picked up the mangalsutra, and she was about to tie it around her neck when she suddenly felt his presence behind her. Her breath faltered as a shiver ran down her spine, and she froze, her heart racing.

As if drawn by some invisible force, she met his gaze in the mirror. His eyes, dark and intense, were locked onto hers, filled with a mixture of admiration and something deeper. Slowly, Kashi turned to face him, her heart beating faster with every step he took towards her.

Her breath hitched, her throat suddenly dry, as Vishwanath closed the distance between them. The air between them felt charged, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. She couldn't tear her gaze away from him, captivated by the intensity in his eyes.

"Yeh kaam tumhare Veer Ji ka hai," (This is your Veer Ji's job.) Vishwanath said softly, his voice low and soothing as he took the mangalsutra from her hands. He gently tied it around her neck, sealing their bond once again. Kashi's eyes fluttered shut, overwhelmed by the moment, feeling the warmth of his touch and the weight of the promise they had made to each other.

Vishwanath then reached for the sindoor bottle that his mother had provided, along with other essentials, and carefully filled the parting of her hair. The sacred red powder adorned her once again, symbolizing their union. As Kashi opened her eyes, tears of happiness brimmed in them, her heart swelling with love. This moment, so simple yet so profound, was filled with love, devotion, and promises of a lifetime together.

For Vishwanath, watching Kashi like this, with the symbols of their marriage adorning her, was nothing short of divine. She was his now, and he would cherish her with every breath he took. They shared a brief eye lock, an unspoken exchange that conveyed everything their hearts felt in that fleeting moment.

As Kashi slowly began to complete wearing the rest of her Jewellery, including the headpiece, Vishwanath couldn't help but admire her, taking in every detail with pride and tenderness.

Finally, when she was ready Vishwanath gently placed his hand forward, his voice soft yet commanding, "Let's go, wifey."

Kashi looked at him for a moment, a soft smile tugging at her lips, before she placed her hand in his, her trust in him unwavering as they walked forward to the next chapter of their lives, hand in hand, their hearts forever intertwined.

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