Hello everyone, sorryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy guys for the long delay. Work sucks at the moment and then I had promised to give you a very long update. So, here I am atlast. Hope I have done justice to this part. Pls don't mind that it had become way too looooooooooooooooooong. This is my longest update ever 😳😳. Okay, baarath is here. I will let you guys decide who is ladkiwale and ladkewale. Hope to see you all at the wedding. Cheers 😃 😃
Part 73
Milind stretched out lazily on the lounger in the terrace garden. It was only 7 am and the sun was mildly warm. "Coffee" he called again loudly. He didn't know who was manning the kitchen today. They were just too many people at home, a few of their household staff from London having also joined them in Chennai.
"Would you ever learn to be patient, Milind?" chided Shweta as she walked towards him carrying a tray of coffee.
Milind turned to her with a lazy smile, "Goodmorning, Mom. I am dying to for a caffeiene kick", he said.
Shweta ruffled his hair fondly, "You haven't changed at all in a lot of ways, Milind. I am still finding it difficult to believe that you are getting married tonight. My little boy grew up too quickly", she smiled and her eyes were tender with motherly love.
Smiling, Milind put his arm around her, "Mom, I will still be your little boy even when I am all grey and old. Children never grow up for their parents, do they?" he said and kissed her cheek. "Love you, Mom", he said softly.
"Love you too, my son", smiled Shweta leaning against him.
Both looked up surprised feeling Anand's arms around them, "And I love both of you. Now am I smelling coffee?", smiled Anand, hugging them tight.
"And here I thought that your love for us brought you to us. But it was only the smell of coffee. Too bad, Dad", laughed Milind.
Laughing, Anand sat down and Shweta poured them coffee. She sighed, "Next time we sit together as a family, there will be four of us, including my daughter-in-law", she smiled happily.
Milind smiled at her, "You are going to be a great mother-in-law, Mom. But I am telling you now, Mom. If you and Prachi ever get into a fight, please don't pull me in between. You both should sort out your own businesses", he said and looked at his Dad, slightly worried.
Shweta glared at him and Anand laughed, "Welcome to my world, Son. You will soon know how hard it is to be a married man especially when your wife and mother are at eachother's throats", he said.
Shweta hit him, "Your mother is not like that, Milind. Prachi and I are going to be great friends. And your father used to be such a chicken. Whenever your grandma and I had a disagreement, he will completely disappear out of sight. I never knew whose side he would have taken", she glared at him.
Anand chuckled at Milind's bewildered expression, "It's always good to play safe, Milind. Very soon, I will teach you all the tricks. You are definitely going to need them in life", he said. Pulling his glaring wife close to him, he kissed her head, "I was only joking, darling. I know you will make a fantastic mother-in-law", he said gently and Shweta smiled.
Milind squeezed his mother's hand, "Dad is right, Mom. Prachi will never have any complaints", he said softly.
They finished their breakfast quickly and Anand turned to Milind. "Get ready soon, Milind! Vicky has planned a relaxed morning for you. You are free till 4 pm. We will leave for the wedding hall at 6 pm" he said.
As if on cue, Milind's phone rang. It was Vicky telling him to get ready within the next hour. They were coming to pick him up. Wondering what it was all about, Milind rushed to get ready.
The Shah house was full of activity. Among all the packing, people calling out instructions and all the hustle and bustle, Prachi stood in the middle of her room, looking around. They were leaving for the wedding hall now. She would definitely miss her sweet little room. She hugged the white teddy bear that Neev had given her. Her room was filled with so many cute little things she had collected over the years and carefully shifted from Mumbai. Hearing her mother's voice calling her, she put the bear down on her bed with a sigh and adjusting her clothes, walked out.
Prachi's heart was thundering with excitement as they neared the wedding hall. She could see that security would be very tight that evening. She gasped as the building loomed near. It was huge and beautifully decorated. With the added glitz of lights, she knew that it would look breathtaking that night. The path leading to the building was red carpeted and beautiful water fountains adorned the entrance. The women performed a small puja before entering the hall. Walking in, Prachi looked around wide eyed and very impressed. The actual wedding hall itself was very huge and very beautifully decorated. The stage was still being decorated and the very size of the place made her wonder how many would be attending that evening. She was glad that Milind's family had taken over the wedding arrangements. Her parents would have struggled very hard to pull even half of such extravaganza. She smiled fondly at her parents, already running around shouting instructions to everyone. Oh, how would she live away from them! She thought sadly and tears pricked her eyes. She pulled herself together as Gayathri Bua urged her go up to the bridal suite. One side of the hall would be taken by Prachi and her family and the other side would accommodate Milind and his family. She smiled at her cousins as they walked alongside her, teasing and carrying suitcases and bags. She walked to the window and looked outside. In just a few hours, Milind would arrive. She closed her eyes in excitement and nervousness.
Milind closed his eyes in content as he lay sprawled face down on the sun lounger. Vicky had arranged a rejunevating massage at the spa and a steamy sauna in one of his hotels for him. His friends and cousins had also joined him and they were all loitering in the pool. The whole place was taken up by them exclusively, guaranteeing complete privacy. Milind felt his body tingle pleasantly. He felt completely relaxed. After being busy with work and all the wedding rituals, it was a much needed morning before the wedding and he thanked his ever understanding brother silently. Vicky always knew what he wanted. His eyes felt heavy and he closed them. Feeling the sun blocked, he turned to look at Vicky, who was adjusting a huge beach umbrella.
Vicky smiled at his sleepy eyes, "Get as much sleep as you can, Milind. A few sleepless nights are ahead, bro", he said naughtily.
Milind grinned, "You won't hear me complaining about those sleepless nights, bro. You are the best, Vicky. Thanks mate", he sighed and lay back on the lounger.
Vicky gave a light smack on his head, "Get some rest, bro. I want Prachi to be bowled over completely on seeing you tonight. I will wake you up in a couple of hours" he said fondly.
He smiled as Milind just grunted already half asleep and walked to join the men in the pool. His parents were very interested in seeing Pooja and her parents tonight. Pooja had also come clean about their relationship to her parents. As expected they were shocked and worried and had expressed similar doubts about the difference in wealth, status and culture. Now it was upto him and his parents to put that fear to rest. He whistled happily as he joined the cheering men in the swimming pool.
Milind was almost ready when the knock sounded on his door. He turned as Vicky walked in.
"Wow, bro. You look amazing", whistled Vicky softly, looking appreciatingly at Milind. Smiling at him, Milind adjusted his collar. "Let me", said Vicky and did it for him. His hands held Milind's shoulders, "You will definitely knock every sense out of Prachi tonight, bro" he said.
The richly embroided light grey raw silk sherwani highlighted Milind's tall and muscular built and his broad shoulders. The western and Indian blend of the outfit gave an added charishma and Milind carried it off very well. The clean shaven looked and carefully ruffled, gelled hair added to his masculine charm.
Milind smiled at him, "Thanks mate. You look amazing too, bro. Shall we make a double celebration tonight? You and Pooja could also tie the knot tonight" he suggested.
Dressed in a light blue silk sherwani and looking equally dashing, Vicky grinned and winked at him, "No bro. I won't snatch your glory tonight. It's your day, Milind. Go and get your girl, bro. I will wait for my turn" he said. "Let's go, Milind. Everyone is waiting for you, downstairs", he said and Milind walked down with him to join his waiting family.
Prachi smiled at her beautician who exclaimed how beautiful she looked and thanked her. She smiled shyly at her image in the mirror. She looked at the stunningly beautiful face staring back at her. The glow in her eyes, the blush on her cheeks has added to her beauty and her heart thundered in excitement as she heard the distant boom of the fireworks. The music band at the entrance started playing signalling that the baraatis would arrive in any minute. Prachi's hand suddenly felt clammy and she looked at Lisa with nervous eyes. Lisa squeezed her hand in response, her eyes silently reassuring.
Reba and Rita moved to stand close to her. "You are looking very beautiful, Prachi. Everything is going to be fine. I can't believe how excited I am feeling now. Your dulha is almost here, dear", Rita smiled at her and Reba clapped her hands excitedly.
Prachi smiled shyly and turned as her mother walked in along with a beaming Pooja. Premlatha's heart constricted with joy and tenderness on seeing her daughter looking breathtakingly beautiful. Shweta had chosen her dress and it looked perfect on Prachi. The heavily embroidered burnt orange and red ghagra choli and decked in diamonds, her daughter looked like a princess. Too emotional to say anything, Premlatha kissed her daughter's head and nodded, indicating that they should go down. In the next few minutes, Gayathri bua and her other relatives joined Prachi. The music was louder and the sky outside filled with the glittery fireworks, their loud boom matching Prachi's thundering heartbeats. With a deep breath, Prachi stood up. As her friends and cousins crowded around her, praying that her jittery legs wouldn't give way, she walked slowly down the stairs towards the entrance of the hall to welcome Milind and his family.
Neev stood alongside Inder at the outer entrance ready to welcome the baraatis. The whole place glowed and it felt surreal. The extravaganca was breathtaking and classy. Neev smiled remembering Milind's challenge on the day he gave him a bloody nose that people would talk about his and Prachi's wedding for decades. How true! The media would be kept out of the actual hall itself, ensuring complete privacy once the baraatis entered the hall. He smiled at a very nervous looking Inder. The number of people who accompanied the baraat was much more than Inder had expected. Inder rushed forward as the cars stopped. His relatives joined him immediately as they greated Milind's family and his merrily dancing cousins and friends. Inder's heart swelled with pride and joy as a very handsome looking Milind stepped out of the open-topped car.
Milind smiled as they were welcomed lavishly. He knew that Prachi and the other women would be waiting in the hall. Though impatient to go in, he enjoyed watching his family and friends being lavished with greetings and attention. The music played and the dancing and cheering continued as they were led inside. Milind's eyes took all the decorations appreciatively. It was too lavish and sparkly for his taste but still very good and impressive. They were met by Premlatha and the other women. Among all the singing from the women, there were a lot of leg pulling and laughter and Vicky and the others teased and joked with the women. Prachi's cousins matched them word by word and the elders enjoyed the banter. Milind's eyes searched impatiently.
One of Prachi's cousins looked at him, "Why Jiju, you seem to be looking for someone? Itni bechaini bhi achi nahi hai", she teased and the girls giggled.
Milind grinned. Vicky jumped to his defence, "This bechaini is not one-sided you know. Ask our dear Prachi bhabhi. What wouldn't she give to have a glimpse of her dashing prince?" Vicky teased.
Young men and women from both the sides jumped in, teasing eachother and laughing. Laughing along with them, Milind's heart skipped a beat and then went into an overdrive. The women had given way and Milind forgot to breathe as Prachi walked forwards slowly, flanked by her friends on either side. Head bent, eyes glued to the floor, she was carrying a puja thali and stopped in front of him. A collective hush had fallen among Milind's friends and very soon teasing comments and laughter followed. Vicky blinked on seeing a beautiful Pooja in a lilac ghagra choli and smiled as a blushing Pooja looked everywhere else but him.
Prachi's hands slightly shook and she held on to the puja thali tightly. Her eyes took in Milind's shoes and slowly travelled up, taking in his silk sherwani and stayed at his hands. Though she longed to look at his face, she was way too shy and nervous. She stood just behind her mother as Premlatha did the aarthi. Her eyes slowly looked up and met his deep black ones, smouldering with a mixture of emotions. Her breath caught in her throat as she looked at his handsome form. A few discreet coughs and teasing laughter alerted her and she went bright crimson. Smiling, Milind bent towards Premlatha and his eyes held Prachi's as Premlatha applied tilak on his forehead. Everything felt like a dream for Prachi as she and Milind were led slowly to the beautifully decorated stage. The mandap was almost filled with seating arrangements being exclusive and carefully planned. Prachi's mind registered nothing else but the man at her side. Once seated on the stage, the evening picked up pace. One of the famous bands had taken up the entertainment of the evening and they were doing a perfect job. Prachi felt Milind's eyes on her every now and then but kept her eyes glued to the ground. A few customary speeches and introductions were done quickly and people started to arrive at the stage to meet and greet the couple. Prachi was way too nervous and was thankful for her friends and cousins who hovered near her all the time. Her eyes found her parents conversing with Milind's and Vicky's and busy with greeting people. Prachi dutifully greeted their guests, posed for photographs carefully listening as Milind introduced them. There were a lot of prominent people whom in any other situation, Prachi would have been awed and excited to meet. But tonight, nothing else mattered. She knew that none of the faces and names would stay in her mind. She was very conscious of the warmth of his body as he stood close to her, the deep tone of his voice as he introduced the guests. Her eyes strayed to the TV screens and she watched his smiling face filling the screen. She gasped as she felt him whisper near her ear.
"Stop sneaking a look at the TV screens. I am standing right next to you, sweetheart. You can ogle at me all you want", Milind said in a soft whisper, enjoying her shyness. Prachi blushed at being caught. "You look very beautiful, my cherry girl. My sanity is hanging by a very thin thread", he whispered again, his fingers caressing the palm of her hand. Too nervous now, she closed her hand in a tight fist trying to keep away from his naughty fingers. They were soon interrruped by the group of Prachi's friends as they joined them on the stage and Prachi smiled shyly at their greetings.
Dinner also contained a very lavish buffet and Vicky was busy enquiring after their guests and making sure someone tended to their needs. He was very happy tonight. His brother's wedding aside he had also managed to exchange a few words with Pooja's parents and also introduced his parents to them. They had spoken to each other only for a few minutes but nevertheless, it was a good start. A very nervous Pooja stayed close to her mother all that time. His tummy rumbled with hunger. He had been so busy all day and hadn't eaten much but hadn't forgotten to sneak a few drinks to Prachi and Milind on the stage. He quickly grabbed a plate of hot idlis at the stall serving southindian delicacies. He quickly finished it before someone could interrupt him. He smiled happily at the throng of people at the dining area. Everyone seemed to enjoying the evening and his heart lifted up with pride and happiness.
Micky was stuffed with food and walked around happily eyeing if he had missed any other culinary delights. The food was mouthwatering and he was even more excited to see the perfectly dressed handsome young men at the wedding. This evening was becoming a real treat to his eyes. He sighed remembering how sexy Mr. Shah had looked in his silk sherwani. That was one ship that sailed away for good, he sighed again longingly. His sharp eyes spotted a silhouette of a young man close to the food stalls. He couldn't make out his face in the shadows and Micky walked towards him, intrigued. Oh man, this guy looks hot.
Vicky jumped up startled to find Micky in front of him suddenly. "Oh man, you gave me a fright", he complained and his eyes narrowed on seeing Micky's horrified look.
Micky gave a sheepish grin. He knew that Vicky would kill him if he ever came to know about his thoughts. Micky certainly hadn't expected the hot guy to be Vicky of all people. He giggled huskily. Giving him a weird look, Vicky pulled him along. It was time to get back inside and get all their friends up on the stage.
Walking towards the hall, they ran into Sally and Mark. Finding a huge cup of icecream in Mark's hands, Micky whisked him off along to find some for himself. Sally and Vicky rolled their eyes.
"They will make their way after they stuff their faces with food, Sal. Let's go in. It's time we got on the stage with Milind and Prachi", Vicky said and frowned as a deep shadow crossed across Sally's face.
Pulling herself together, Sally gave a bright smile, "You go and find the others, Vicky. I will get Mark and Micky", she said and rushed off without waiting for his reply.
Vicky's frown deepened. "Surely, she is not still………", he thought to himself and shook his head to clear such ridiculous thoughts. Of course not, she and Mark look so happy together. Spotting a few of his friends, he hurried towards them.
Relieved to have a few minutes of rest, Milind and Prachi sat down. Milind looked at her sitting demurely. She looked breathtakingly beautiful. How long had they waited for this day! His heart constricted with happiness. Feeling his eyes on her, Prachi sneaked a look at him from the corner of her eyes. He looked way too handsome that evening. She was a myriad of emotions. Her body tensed as he leaned closer to her.
"Do you think we can disappear backstage for a quick kiss? I am dying to kiss you, Cherry", he said softly.
Prachi went bright red and closed her eyes, too shy to say anything.
"I will see what I can do, mate. How long do you think you will need?" said a naughty voice behind him and Milind laughed feeling Vicky's hand on his shoulder.
A horrified Prachi wished she could just disappear.
Vicky gave a wicked grin, "Come on, Prachi bhabhi. Patience is a virtue. Just a few more hours for the wedding and then I will call for the groom to kiss his bride. Sneaking backstage is a complete NO NO" he teased Prachi.
Prachi went crimson. She wondered if Milind would really kiss her after the wedding like Vicky said. Her family would be scandalised, she thought worriedly.
Watching her face, Milind whispered again, "Don't worry, sweatheart. I will behave. I will save everything for tomorrow night", he said, his seductively husky voice sending a tingle down her body.
Before Vicky could tease them again, all their friends joined them on the stage. They were all immaculately dressed and the girls from Milind's gang, carried off the Indian attire with a western twist beautifully and gracefully. Prachi smiled at their teasing and kept her eyes carefully away from Sally. To her relief, Sally stood as farther away from Prachi as she could for the photos. Prachi gasped as felt Milind's hand at her waist as they posed with their friends for the cameras. She looked up at him and he smiled at her. As Prachi gave a shy smile, the cameras clicked furiously. Cheering and hooting, their friends took turns to pose for the cameras.
Reba and Rita flanked Milind on either side. "It's still not too late, Milind. We don't mind polygamy. What do you say?" asked Reba naughtily and Rita giggled.
Milind laughed, "Darlings, how can any man not be tempted by such an offer? But I am a very law abiding citizen, you see. Polygamy is against the law. But I am sure we can work out something that's beneficial to all of us,………..providing Prachi agrees", he winked naughtily, grinning at Prachi's furious looks.
"Ahhhhhhhhhhhh, Milind, you are so so wicked", giggled Reba and yelped, rubbing her throbbing arm in pain as Prachi pinched her hard.
As Milind put his arm around her, pacifying her, Reba shot a triumphant look at a glaring Prachi. "Oh god, Milind, you are marrying a mad, violent woman. She is such a wild cat", hissed Reba.
Milind's eyes heated up as they held Prachi's, "Then I will look forward to taming this wild cat", his husky murmur was only for Prachi's ears. Prachi's face flamed and she closed her eyes as a shiver went through her.
It had gone almost 11 pm and the reception was coming to an end. Though the hall was still full with family and friends, Milind and Prachi's parents agreed that they should wind up soon as it would soon be time for the wedding. The music band had been playing melodious songs and suddenly everything went quiet and the lights dimmed. Both Milind and Prachi's faces lit up with smiles as they saw the girls take up the stage. The music band had cleared the centre stage giving them ample space. Prachi's smile widened on seeing a few of Milind's and her friends on the stage together, including Lisa and Pooja. The girls danced to a western and Indian remix song. The hall erupted in a loud applause as their very impressed audience cheered them.
Milind and Prachi had just gotten off the change. There wasn't much time left and they had to get ready for the wedding. Neev rushed towards them with two plates of food. "Guys, eat quickly before everyone comes and whisks you off. There is not much time left now", he said concernedly.
Milind smiled at him, "Thanks, Neev. I am starving" he said and Neev smiled. They look so happy and so much in love, thought Neev fondly, wishing them silently and rushed away as Inder called him. As Prachi was led to her room to change quickly, Milind looked at half eaten plate. Poor thing, she didn't even get to finish her food, he thought to himself as he too rushed to get changed.
It was close to midnight, when Milind walked to the mandap. The place looked completely different now that the wedding stage was set up. The glamour of the evening had changed to a more traditional one. Dressed in a cream and golden sherwani, Milind smiled as Vicky adjusted his sehra. Thankfully, Milind didn't find the head dress too uncomfortable. His eyes were tender with love as he watched Prachi led down the stairs and towards the mandap. Dressed in a crimson red bridal gagra choli which was heavily embroidered, the pallu covering her head, she stood in front of him. Her eyes were downcast and head bent, she looked so demure and nervous. Prachi's hands shook as they exchanged the varmalas and Milind was shaken at the mixture of emotions in her eyes as they held his for a fraction of a minute. Expectations, promises, fear, happiness and so much vulnerability……Milind heart felt heavy. Milind obediently followed the pandit's instructions, time and again smiling at his parents. Both Milind's and Prachi's parents followed the rituals carefully. A shiver went through Prachi as her father placed her hand on Milind's. They stood up to take the seven pheras and every promise they made to eachother was heartfelt and honest as everyone blessed them with flowers. Prachi closed her eyes as Milind placed the mangalsutra around her neck. His fingers brushed against her neck and even that slightest touch was enough to calm her and reassure her. Milind filled her maang with sindoor and she looked up at him. Milind held her eyes briefly wishing that his eyes could convey everything he wanted to tell her………that he would always love her, protect her and cherish her. Prachi's eyes slid away from his. Her chest felt constricted. This was the moment she had waited for a long time. And now she was his……..his wife. Her life and her every breath would depend on him. Her every smile, her tears and her very existence would revolve around him……..her husband. Her happiness was way too much to be measured and she struggled to contain it. Premlatha brushed her tears and looked up as she felt Inder's arm around her shoulder. Tears brimming in his eyes, Inder looked at her and they both smiled at each other, happy and content. Their daughter was married. This was the day they had waited to see for so long, dreamt since she was born. A content sigh escaped Premlatha as she squeazed her husband's hand. Anand and Shweta looked at them and smiled. They had dreamed about this day for too long too. Both parents looked at eachother, their eyes full of understanding, tenderness and love for their children. The next few minutes passed in a blur for Milind and Prachi as they were blessed by their parents, elders and wished by their friends. It was a very long time before they were led into the suite that Milind was using.
Seated next to Milind, with her pallu pulled down up to her forehead, Prachi was very nervous and shy as Milind's family surrounded them, teasing and laughing. She obediently tasted the sweets and delicacies she was given. After a long time they were led back to the suite she was using and every ritual was observed by Prachi's family. Milind laughed softly at her cousin's teasing comments and looked at a very quiet Prachi next to him. Her pallu obscured his view of her beautiful face and he longed to pull it back. It was almost mid morning by the time, every other ritual was finished. Leaving Prachi with her family, Milind went back to his room. They would be leaving shortly and he knew that Prachi would want to spend some time with her family before the bidaai.
Prachi had changed again into another heavily embroiderd maroon and teal ghagra choli. Though she kept smiling and talking softly with her friends and cousins, her eyes crept back to the wall clock every other minute. It would be time soon. A sudden fear gripped her and she bit her lip. Quick to notice the sudden change in her, the girls looked at each other. Premlatha walked in just then and the girls left them alone understanding Prachi's need to be with her mother. Premlatha sat next to her daughter and held her hand.
"Prachi, we should be going down now. They are all waiting for you", she said softly, her voice heavy.
A sob escaped Prachi and Premlatha cupped her face. "Prachi beta, it's the start of your life. You are going to your home, your family. Remember all that I have taught you, Prachi. You have to be a good wife and a good daughter-in-law. You have to give all your love and respect to your husband and in-laws. That is your family now, gudiya. Kush rehna aur Milind ko kush rakhna. Bas yehi dekhna hai mujhe" she said, tears running down her face.
Sobbing, Prachi held her mother. "Mama…….mujhe bahut dar lag raha hai, mama", Prachi's sobs intensified.
Sobbing herself, Premlatha held her daughter close, gently reassuring her. Inder who had just walked in, stood there watching them, his own heart heavy with the pain of sending his daughter away. Prachi looked up as she felt her father's hand on her head and with a loud sob, hugged him tightly. Not trusting himself to utter even a word, Inder held his sobbing daughter close, his own tears falling unchecked. Holding her close, he walked out towards the hall, where Milind and his family were waiting. Prachi's sobs intensified as she took leave from her close relatives. She broke down holding her cousins close. Standing in front of Pranay and Nihaarika, she just looked at them. Their own eyes brimming with tears, Pranay and Nihaarika touched her head and blessed her. Nihaarika wiped Prachi's tears, "Hamesha kush raho beta", she said softly and with a loud sob, Prachi hugged her. Nihaarika held her close, her teary eyes automatically looking at Neev.
Milind felt his heart constricted on seeing Prachi's distress. The happy wedding atmosphere had taken a very emotional turn and Milind's family members and friends had gone quiet feeling the pain of a daughter and her parents. Premlatha and Inder led Prachi to where Milind and his parents were waiting. Prachi looked at Neev who was standing slightly away and looking everywhere but her. Moving away from her parents, she walked towards him. Neev looked at her, his face ashen with pain.
"Mama aur Papa ka khayaal rakhna Neev………aur tumhara bhi. I have told Mama not to make karela for you anymore, because I……I won't be there anymore to eat it for you. And I……..I have told her to make kheer for you everyday……bas apna khayaal rakhna tum……." She sobbed.
Unable to stop himself anymore, Neev hugged her, tears streaming down his face and Prachi broke down in his arms. Milind looked away, completely moved and his eyes met Vicky's gently reassuring ones. Calming her gently, Neev led her forward. Inder stood in front of Anand and folded his hands together, looking at him, unable to say anything.
Anand reached out and held Inder's hands, "Please don't worry about anything, Inderji. Prachi will be our daughter not our daughter-in-law" he said gently. Shweta hugged Premlatha gently reassuring her. Inder looked at Milind, a number of emotions in his eyes, "Milind", he said. Milind nodded gently, his eyes silently promising Inder.
He walked towards Neev and hugged him, "Thank you, Neev. Thank you for everything. I promise that I will take care of her" he said softly.
Neev nodded, "I know, Milind. I trust you" he said softly and hugged him again.
Inder placed Prachi's hand in Milind's. Vicky touched his shoulder, "Don't worry, Uncle, Aunty. Prachi will never have any complaints. We will look after her" he said. Inder and Premlatha nodded with teary smiles. Prachi kept looking back at her parents as she walked to the car. She hesitated and feeling Milind's hand on her back, got into the car, followed by Milind and then Vicky. The other cars pulled out of the building and as their car started to move, Prachi who was sobbing frantically, turned back to look at her parents. Not knowing how to console her, Milind looked on helpless. A few minutes later, Prachi was still sniffing loudly. Milind's hand reached out to hold hers. A startled Prachi tried to move her hand away from his, but Milind held hers firm but still gentle. His thumb caressed the back of her hand, soft and rhythmically and Prachi slowly calmed down. Quietly Milind passed a pack of tissues and Prachi wiped her eyes, still sniffing softly. Milind linked his fingers with hers and squeazed it gently. Prachi closed her eyes and rested his head against his shoulder lightly. Smiling, Milind placed a soft kiss on her head, her pallu still pulled down to her forehead. Sitting next to Milind, Vicky cleared his throat loudly. It was time to cheer them up. "Hey guys, you won't believe how much entertainment you missed, standing up on the stage. All the fun was happening at the dining area. Do you know what Micky did?" Vicky started and by the time their car reached Milind's penthouse flat, Milind was laughing softly and Prachi was smiling.
Prachi and Milind were welcomed into his home in a very traditional manner. A pleasant warmth filled Prachi as she stepped into her home. She had been there a number of times, but this time it felt so different………so right……her home, hers and Milind's. She smiled shyly as she was led into the puja room that she herself had set up in the house a few months ago. Lighting the diya, she closed her eyes in prayer and prayed wholeheartedly for the happiness of her new family and her parents. Relieved to be home, Milind stretched relaxedly on the sofa and smiled as Brute bounced towards him. Happy to see him, Brute jumped around him excitedly.
"Hey buddy, your friend is here. Won't you say hello to her?", Milind stroked behind his eyes.
Brute immediately ran towards Prachi and bounced around her and as she stroked him shyly, he settled near her feet, contently. Shweta laughted at him and banished him back into the garden. She instructed a few of Milind's cousins to escort Prachi up to Milind's bedroom and pulled Milind back as he got up excitedly.
"Ah…..Ah..where do you think you are going? Your room is on the other side, Milind. Vicky and the other boys will lead the way" she laughed at Milind's disappointed face. Grinning sheepishly at the teasing crowd around him, Milind followed Vicky silently.
Prachi shivered slightly as she entered Milind's ……no…….their bedroom. The girls were teasing and laughing and she smiled shyly at their comments. She had already made friends with them over the past few months after meeting them at the engagement and they were a lively bunch of girls just like her friends. They left her to relax and rushed back downstairs after promising to bring her food. Left alone, Prachi looked around the familiar room. She sat on the bed and leaned against the bed rest. She wanted to change but knew that she will still be meeting a few more people. She closed her eyes, tired but extremely happy.
Milind knocked on the door discretely and opening the door, walked in. On the pretence of taking a change of clothes from his wardrobe, he had managed to get away. He stilled on seeing her sleeping form on the bed. Aww, poor thing, she must be so tired, he thought to himself. Walking to the windows, he pulled down the blinds, effectively shutting the afternoon sunlight. He turned the air conditioner up and covered her with a light duvet. Her pallu was still covering most of her face and she was curled up on her side. He stood there looking at her for a few seconds, his heart swelling with love, pride and tenderness. He bent down to place a soft kiss on her head and picking up his clothes, quickly walked out. He had just gone near the stairs, when found Shweta and Shreya walking towards his room.
Shreya narrowed her eyes, "What are you doing here, Milind?" she asked suspiciously.
Milind grinned, "Come on, Mausi. I am being a good boy and just picking up a change of clothes", he showed her the clothes.
"Alright, go down now. We will just check on Prachi and send a tray up with the girls" said Shweta and looked surprised when Milind stopped her.
"Mom, let it be. Prachi is asleep. Don't disturb her now", he said softly.
Shweta and Shreya looked surprised. "Oh! I didn't know that. Don't worry, Milind. I won't disturb her. Hope you didn't disturb her either. The poor child would be worn out completely. We will let her rest for sometime. You should too", she said fondly.
Milind smiled, "I am going to do exactly that, Mom. Just send some coffee for me", he said and whistling, went down. Both the sisters smiled at each other and walked back down.
Prachi woke up with a start. Appalled to realise that she had fallen asleep, she quickly got out of the bed. She blushed wondering if Milind had pulled down the blinds and covered her with a duvet. Realising that it was almost 6 pm, she rushed into the bathroom to freshen up. She had just come out of the bathroom when the knock sounded on the door and Shweta entered the room with Anna pushing a coffee cart. Worried what she would have thought of her falling asleep, Prachi kept hee eyes down.
Shweta smiled at her daughter-in-law, "Sit down, Prachi. Are you feeling better, now? Lisa and a few of your cousins will arrive here very soon. Drink some coffee first", she said gently.
Prachi wriggled her hands nervously, "I am sorry…….aunty…….I didn't know how I fell asleep", she said very softly.
Shweta raised her eyebrows, "Now this is something I really don't like", she said and Prachi looked up frightened. Smiling at her expression, Shweta held her hand, "Prachi, I am not "aunty". Call me "Mom" and Anand is "Dad"…Just like Milind does. You have nothing to be afraid of, my child. I promise to be a good mother-in-law", Shweta laughed.
Prachi smiled shyly, her heart lifting up with joy. She is indeed lucky to have such wonderful people as her in-laws. "Yes……Mom", she said softly and Shweta smiled happily.
When Lisa and her cousins came into the room, Prachi rushed towards them. She held her friend's hands, "Lisa, how are mama and papa? Were they crying a lot?" she asked worriedly.
Lisa smiled at her, "They are fine, Prachi. There are so many people around them and they are very busy. You shouldn't be thinking about all that now. You must only think of the night ahead, darling", she winked at her. Prachi went bright red as her cousins laughed. "Now, Prachi, have a nice scented shower and get back here soon. I will get that red dress you had already packed for the night. And did you pack matching silk and laces too?" Lisa giggled, enjoying the different shades of red colouring Prachi's face and the girls laughed as Prachi ran into the bathroom.
Understanding that Prachi would be very uncomfortable in the presence of her, Shweta sent food up for all the girls. As Milind's cousins also joined Lisa, Prachi was teased to the limit. Though she was too petrified to even think of food, Lisa forced her to eat something. Now dressed in her beautiful red ghagra choli, hair adorned with jasmine flowers, decked with jewellery, Prachi looked breathtakingly beautiful.
"Wow, Prachi, you look amazing. No wonder Milind is crazy about you. Atlast the night is here, honey", one of Milind's cousins exclaimed and Prachi shivered as sudden fear and nervousness gripped her.
She looked at Lisa as she adjusted her pallu. "Lisa, Peter doesn't mind that you still haven't gone home, does he?" she asked worriedly.
Lisa smiled, "Peter is also here, Prachi. He is with Milind. We will just leave together after we take you to the beach house", Lisa said and another shiver went through Prachi. She didn't dare think of the beach house or the night or Milind ………
Whistling softly, Milind had just changed, when Anand walked into the room. Looking appreciatively at his handsome looking son, Anand smiled, "You and Prachi make a beautiful couple, son" he said softly.
Milind smiled, "Thank you, Dad. If it was not for you, I don't know how long it would have taken for the wedding to happen", he said and hugged him.
Anand slapped his back, "The most important thing in this world for me is my son's happiness. I would do anything to see this smile on your face, Milind" he said gently.
Milind smiled and ruffled his curly hair slightly and looked at himself in the mirror, satified.
Anand laughed, "Enough Milind. You can't make Prachi wait. You should be leaving now, Son. Vicky and the others are waiting to take you to the beach house" he said. He smiled seeing Milind flush slightly, "Milind, I know you and Prachi have known eachother for a year, love eachother very much. But now she is your wife. As a husband, Prachi's happiness lies with you. Don't forget that she has left everything behind to step into your life. And tonight is the most important night of your married life. It's up to you to make her comfortable in her new life. Give her every consideration, every support. Always put her happiness first, son. Do you understand?" he said gently.
Milind knew that his father's words are very true. Tonight, their journey starts. It's up to him to make this first step into their married life easy for her. He nodded, "Yes, Dad. I understand", he said softly. Anand smiled at him and putting his arm around his shoulder, he walked out with his son.
Prachi could hear her heart thundering in her chest. Lisa and her cousins had left her at the door of the bedroom. She stepped into the room and jumped as the door closed behind her. She had kept her eyes tightly closed and the first thing that assailed her senses was the smell of flowers and something exotic. She opened her eyes slowly. Scented candles filled the room with their soft glow. There was a very soft and melodious music playing and the sound of the crashing waves made her heart thump faster. She curled her clammy hands in her dress. Her eyes fell on the beautifully decorated bed and gulping nervously, she quickly looked away. Avoiding the bed, she slowly walked to the far end of the room, hoping her shivering legs wouldn't give way. It was darker in that part of the room and Prachi closed her eyes as she took deep breaths to calm herself. She was way too nervous and terrified and unexplicably shy. Her heartbeat thundered as she heard the unmistakable deep laughter of Milind in the front hall among his friends.
Milind laughed as he atlast managed to shoo their friends and cousins away. Their laughter could still be heard as they walked to the cars. Smiling, Vicky looked at Milind. The happiness in his friend's face and the sparkle in his eyes was all Vicky had ever wanted to see. They hugged eachother and slapped eachother's backs. "I will try and keep our parents away tomorrow morning as long as I can. But I will warn you before we turn up here. Prachi will have to go to her house for some rituals", Vicky said and Milind smiled at him. "Go on, Milind! Prachi will be waiting" he said softly and walked out.
Milind closed the door behind him and took a deep breath. He was very nervous himself. He can't waste any more time now. His bride would be waiting for him; he thought to himself with a happy smile and walked towards his bedroom.
Prachi moved back into the shadows as she heard his approaching footsteps. She held her breathe and waited for the door to open. The full moon burst out of the clouds and Prachi closed her eyes as the soft moon light filtered into the room through the open curtains.
Anupamaa
CID
Udne Ki Aasha
