Nidhi waited for Ashutosh in his room, wearing her bridal attire. It was their first wedding night. Her red lehnga sprawled across on his bed. She was unsure if she should hide her face under ghoonghat, as she had watched in hindi movies. She looked around the room, feeling nervous yet happy in the anticipation of her future life with Ashutosh. It was their room, their bed now. They were going to share everything together for the rest of their lives. She smiled at the thought.
Suddenly she heard his footsteps. Her heart started beating fast. The door opened and then Ashutosh entered the room, looking handsome in the golden sherwani. Their eyes met and locked for few minutes. It was Ashutosh who broke the eye lock and turned to close the door. He then slowly moved towards the bed, keeping his eyes fixed at Nidhi. He could still not believe that their love had won and they were married. That Nidhi was his now.
Nidhi shyly looked down. She could feel the heat in his eyes reaching her. She moved a little away on the bed, making space for him to sit beside her.
"Nidhi?" Ashutosh broke the silence as he sat close to her. Nidhi looked at him and answered "Yes?"
"Are you feeling comfortable, are you ok? I know everything is new for you here."
"Yes I am fine. Baba, Armaanji, his mother, kaka, everyone made me feel quite at home."
"Oh good. But what about me, am I making you uncomfortable?"
Nidhi did not answer him. How could she tell him that it is not him but the very situation, their marriage, the first wedding night and things to follow was putting her on edge. Suddenly she felt Ashutosh hold her hand. Her heart skipped a beat. She had hugged him before, touched him too but this was different. His touch sent a shiver down her spine and she pulled back a little. Ashutosh understood her nervousness and set her hand free. He did not want to push her. He wanted her to feel at home, get adjusted to the new life. The physical aspect of their relationship could wait a bit longer. Though he could not deny himself how much he waited for this day, this night, to hold her in his arms and to kiss her.
Nidhi realized that her gesture of pulling back had sent a wrong signal to Ashutosh. He may have thought that she was not ready for this. She looked at Ashutosh who seemed a bit confused and lost about what had just happened.
She then boldly took his hand in her hand and apologized "I am sorry. It is not you. It is just my wedding jitters." Ashutosh smiled hearing this and moved closer to Nidhi, pulling her gently in his arms.
"Nidhi'..oh Nidhi. It is ok. I would not do anything that makes you uneasy. I promise"
"I know. I trust you completely. I am all yours".
Her words were enough to assure Ashutosh that Nidhi was ready to take their relationship to next level. He then put his hand under her chin and made her look at him. He saw pure love and absolute trust for him in her eyes. He moved his lips closer to her. Nidhi closed her eyes, looking forward to her first kiss.
Chapter 2
Ashutosh was just about to kiss Nidhi when they both heard a knock on the door. They suddenly jolted back from each other.
"I will see who is at the door. "Ashutosh stood up from the bed.
He heard Baba's anxious voice " Nidhi, Ashutosh!!! Please open the door."
Both Ashutosh and Nidhi got worried if Baba was ok. Nidhi too joined Ashutosh while he opened the door. "Baba, what happened, are you ok?" asked Ashutosh, holding Baba's shoulders and making him sit on the sofa chair. Meanwhile Nidhi brought a glass of the water from the kitchen and handed over to Baba.
"Nidhi beta, I just got a call from Jeevan Sandhya. Do you remember Sukhdev? He has had a heart attack and they could not get hold of any doctor at this hour. So they requested if you could visit him as an emergency case. The hospital nurse is attending to Sukhdev right now. But he needs your help. I know this is not the right time to ask you but''''."
"Baba, I will be right there. Nothing is more important than a patient's life." Nidhi replied promptly and got ready to leave."
"Nidhi, wait. I will drive you over to Jeevan Sandhya and help you attend this case." Ashutosh hurried over to get the car keys. They both left immediately. As doctors, they understood their professional duties just too well and knew that personal matters have to take a backseat at time. Fortunately, they reached in time and were able to save Sukhdev. Nidhi gave necessary instructions to the nurse before leaving the hospital.
"Hey Doc, good job." Ashutosh complimented Nidhi.
"Thanks to my senior who taught me to be a good doctor. The same senior who is my husband now." Nidhi replied with a grin on her face.
It was well past midnight by the time they reached home. They quickly reassured Baba that Sukhdev's condition was under control and then retired to their bedroom. They were tired but both could feel the sexual tension between them.
"Nidhi, I think we should take rest. We both have had hectic time since last few days and we need good sleep. I will take the couch, you can sleep on the bed."
"No, I will take the couch and you sleep on the bed." Nidhi argued.
"I insist, Nidhi. It is already quite late." Ashutosh went to the bathroom to change his clothes. Despite the fact that they both wanted to share the bed together in eachothers arms, Ashutosh knew that they needed rest. And secondly but more importantly, he would not be able to restrain from making love to Nidhi. He wanted her, needed her, desired her so badly. But it had to wait, for the right time.
When he returned from the bathroom, Nidhi had already drifted to sleep, still wearing her bridal clothes. Yes, they had both rushed to hospital in their wedding attire. Ashutosh looked longingly and lovingly at Nidhi. She looked so beautiful, so innocent in her sleep. Her lips were slightly parted as if inviting him to kiss her. Ashutosh could not restrain and bent to kiss her, just then Nidhi turned her back to him. He sighed and silently took his place on the couch.
Nidhi was first to wake up in the morning. She looked around the room and her eyes fell on Ashutosh sleeping on the couch. She recalled the last night's events and sighed heavily. Her first wedding night had turned into a medical emergency night. She got off the bed and walked slowly towards the couch, afraid to wake up Ashutosh. He looked so peaceful, so child like while sleeping. She gently ruffled his hair. She so much wanted to kiss him right there, right now. Maybe I can give him a small peck on forehead as of now, thought Nidhi.
She was just about to bend down to kiss his forehead when Ashutosh opened his eyes. He saw Nidhi bending down, her long silky hair falling on his face. He thought he was dreaming. He rubbed his eyes to make sure he was not dreaming. But the moment was lost. Nidhi shyed away from him, wondering what Ashutosh must be thinking about her. She turned and was about to leave, but Ashutosh caught her hand and pulled her towards him.
"Slept well?" Ashutosh asked, with their faces just inches away. Nidhi just nodded yes, her words stuck in her mouth. The proximity to Ashutosh was driving her mad. She wanted to throw all her inhibitions to the wind and make love to Ashutosh. To hell with it, he was now her husband after all.
She could feel Ashutosh's breath on her cheeks. She could listen to his heartbeats. He cupped her face and brought his lips close to her. She knew it was coming. Her heart fluttered. And then it happened. He kissed the corner of her mouth first and then slowly took her lower lip in his mouth. Nidhi was losing her senses with the very first kiss of her life and she put her arms around Ashutosh to steady herself. He had gently deepened his kiss and was teasing her senses now, urging Nidhi to open her mouth. She could hold no longer and kissed him back passionately with equal longing.
Oh God, she tastes so good, just like fresh morning coffee, thought Ashutosh. He pulled Nidhi slowly towards the bed, still continuing the kiss, wanting more of her.
"Nidhi beta, Ashutosh'Are you both awake. Please come out soon, there are still some post wedding rituals pending." Armaan's mother called out to them.
Ashutosh cursed silently. What a timing, was his wedding night jinxed? First the medical emergency and now these stupid rituals!!!! Unwilling he let go of Nidhi, who kissed him on cheek, smiled shyly and left to get ready.
Chapter 3
Ashutosh and Nidhi visited a nearby temple with everyone to seek Gods' blessing, which was then followed by satyanarayan puja at home.
"Amma, is everything over now or do we still have any rituals left?"Ashutosh questioned Armaans mother with little irritation in his voice. He fondly called her Amma too just like Armaan. He was grateful to Amma for taking charge of his wedding but things were getting on his nerves now. These ritual s never seemed to end and kept him away from his dearest Nidhi!!!
"You seem tired Ashutosh, go and take rest. We have Nidhi's muhdikhai function in the noon and then ofcourse there is reception in the evening. Nidhi beta, please get ready." Amma ordered Nidhi.
Ashutosh and Nidhi looked at eachother helplessly. The memory of their first kiss in the morning still lingered on their minds and they had kept stealing glances since then. Ashutosh left with Armaan and Baba for lunch.
Nidhi chose to wear a green Banarasi saree with fine hand woven exquisite zari work for her muhdikhai function. She completed her look with matching jewellery. She adjusted the pallu over her head. Amma had asked her to pull ghoonghat over her face as all the ladies would lift her ghoonghat and complete the muhdikhai ritual one by one.
She hesitated as she heard the door open. Since her face was covered with ghoonghat, she thought one of the ladies must have come to take her for the function. She kept her eyes and face down, waiting for someone to speak. She felt her ghoonghat being lifted which surprised her. Wasn't this to be done outside infront of everyone? Who is this lady? As soon as the ghoonghat lifted off her eyes, she saw Ashutosh standing infront of her. She was caught unaware and taken aback. She did not expect him to be there!!!
"Nidhi, you look beautiful". Ashutosh said, caressing her cheek with the back of his fingers. She blushed hard as he continued to gaze her.
"What are you doing here? I was expecting one of the ladies." Nidhi questioned him to divert his attention from her and get some control over her senses.
Ashutosh laughed "In case you are forgetting, this happens to be my room. I came here to collect my mobile charger."
At the same time, Amma entered the room and interrupted their conversation "Ashutosh, what are you doing here? You are supposed to sit with all the gentlemen in the garden."
Ashutosh took his mobile charger, gave Nidhi a sideway glance and left the room in jiffy "It seems as if I have to take permission now to enter my own room!!!" He knew he would not be able to get some time alone with Nidhi until night since there was reception after muhdikhai. Why they have to do all these functions and rituals over 4 to 5 days, he thought. Can't they do a mini version of it in 1 day itself and leave the couple to themselves?
Nidhi did not know how the time went by and she had to get ready for the reception. She did admit to herself that all these wedding and related things looked well only in movies or when you are attending someone else's wedding. It was tiring and a ted bit frustrating if you are the bride. Her eyes were searching for Ashutosh. She hadn't seen him for quite a while and longed to hug him. She could still feel the touch of his lips on hers. The kiss was divine and had left them both aching for more.
Nidhi had no energy left for the reception but she knew she had to go through it. Moreover her father, Dadibua, Anji, Solanki uncle aunty and Rohan will be there. She was missing them and wanted to meet them.
This time she chose a pink lehnga choli with antique katdana naqshi and stones work. Thanks to Anji, her entire wedding trousseau was in place with perfect fittings. She could see Ashutosh from the window of the room. He was wearing navy blue suit with crisp white shirt and a blue pin stripe tie. He looked devilishly handsome. Just then as if by some intuition, he turned his head towards the window and saw Nidhi who looked breathtakingly stunning.
Chapter 4
Nidhi gestured to him indicating that he looked good. Ashutosh smiled, silently acknowledged her gesture and reciprocating the same to Nidhi. She was floored by his smile as usual. She was always drawn to his smile ' warm, welcoming, assuring and sexy. The magic spell was broken when someone called out to Nidhi. It was time to leave for reception. She joined Ashutosh and Armaan in the car while Baba, Amma and Hiraman kaka followed them in another car. She immediately rushed to meet her father as soon as she saw him.
"Nidhi, how are you? How was your first day in your new home? Are you happy?" Col Verma asked too many questions at a time with a concern in his voice. He was accomapnied by Dadibua, Chhote Sarkar, Solanki uncle and Shyama aunty.
"I am fine and happy, Baba. You need not worry. Everyone there is taking care of me and leaving no stone unturned to make me feel at home. Where are Anji and Rohan?"
Soon Nidhi got busy in greeting everyone at the reception. It was almost 11 pm when all the guests left. Nidhi was feeling sad and low when she bid farewell to her family. Ashutosh did not miss her expression and immediately put his arms around her shoulders, reassuring her. Nidhi was touched with his gesture.
"Ashu, oh Ashu'. You two love birds can carry on your romance later. Come here first". Armaan shouted at the top of his voice. He was sitting with Dr Rangnath and Anji.
"Yes Armaan dear, tell me why are you shouting? Asked Ashutosh as he took the seat next to him.
Armaan looked mischievously at the couple and said "Anji, can you please do the honours?"
"Yes sure Armaanji, my pleasure. " Anji too replied with a naughty tone. She produced an envelope and handed over to Ashutosh and Nidhi.
"What is this Anji? Why are you all playing games?" Nidhi inquired.
"Open it and see it yourself, Nidhiji." Prompt came the reply from Dr Rangnath.
Nidhi opened the envelope, only to find flight tickets and hotel booking voucher for a trip to Paris. She gasped and looked questioningly at Ashutosh, who was equally speechless.
"Happy Honeymoon!!!!!" shouted the trio. All three of them had chipped in to gift a honeymoon trip to Paris to the couple.
"Thank you guys but this was unnecessary. You all did not have to take so much trouble for us." Ashutosh was moved by their gift.
"Aye Ashu, leave this emotional drama and pack your bags. The flight is scheduled two days later. Chalo lets toast to adrak ki chai." Armaan raised his cup and everyone cheered.
"Anji, where is Rohan? Why did he not come? He was not there even during my bidaai and has not called me since then." Nidhi asked in a worrying tone.
Anji hesitated but she had to tell, "Nidhi, Rohan left Lucknow yesterday night. He has got a job in Singapore."
"What? Why did he not meet me before leaving?" Nidhi was shocked and disappointed. But both Anji and she knew the real reason behind Rohan leaving the city without informing Nidhi.
Everyone finally called it a night except Armaan who had to take care of payments of the reception venue. Dr Rangnath was too glad to to drop Anji home while Ashutosh and Nidhi left in Armaan's car.
"Nidhi? Can I ask something if you don't mind?" Ashutosh looked at Nidhi while driving.
"Hmmm'yes." Nidhi was feeling very tired and had almost dozed off.
"Rohan loved you, didn't he? That's why he left. He could not see you with someone else."
Nidhi immediately opened her eyes, shocked and wondering how did Ashutosh come to know. She looked outside the window, not able to meet his eyes and somehow feeling guilty. Though there was no reason for her to feel guilty as she did not reciprocate Rohan's feelings.
"Nidhi, don't worry. I am not doubting you or expecting any answers from you. I know you don't love him."
"Then how, when did you '?"
"Rememer I told you once that he cared for you, that it was evident from his eyes? During the marriage, he was a changed person and his way of looking at you was somehow different. It was not difficult to guess for me, Nidhi. I just feel sorry for him and your friendship with him. Just the way I feel sorry for Mallika and my friendship with her."
Nidhi understood what Ashutosh just said, suddenly feeling light and unburdened. She smiled at him, silently conveying her thanks for his understanding.
When they reached their bedroom, the sexual tension between them surfaced again.
Chapter 5
"Nidhi, I will sleep on the couch again. You have had a hectic day today also. I think you should hit the bed."
Ashutosh's heart refused to agree with his words. Only God knew how much he wanted to hug her, touch her, kiss her and make love to her. But he could see that Nidhi badly needed rest and a good sleep. She had continued visiting Jeevan Sandhya till the day of their Sangeet ceremony and at the same time wedding preparations, the wedding itself and now all these functions, ritual etc had taken a toll on her body. Last thing she needed was him to force his desires on her.
Nidhi was confused. Her body demanded rest and sleep while her heart desired Ashutosh, his arms, his touch'She also knew that couch was not too comfortable to sleep second day in a row. Bravely she replied," No, we both sleep on the bed today. You too need rest. I am sure we are strong enough to keep control over our emotions for one more night."
"I don't think this is a wise decision. I don't know about your self control but if I join you in that bed, I would not be able to keep my hands off you." Ashutosh left the room without waiting for Nidhi's reply and to let her change her clothes. If Nidhi would have argued and insisted once more, he would have not been able to stop himself to agree with her.
Nidhi stood transfixed where she was, recalling Ashutosh's words. Her cheeks reddened as she realized what he had said. He had openly expressed his desire for her. She quickly changed into her salwar kameez and went to sleep, too shy to meet his eyes again.
Ashutosh was happy to see her sleep soundly as he entered the bedroom after an hour. He had deliberately passed his time chatting away with Armaan to avoid any kind of embarrassment to Nidhi about what he had said earlier.
Next morning Ashutosh woke up to find Nidhi missing from her bed. He called out to her but there was no reply. He could hear her voice from the kitchen and went out of the room. She was busy helping Hiraman kaka with breakfast and tea.
"Good morning, beta. Nidhi has made wonderful adrak ki chai. I think you will like it." Baba greeted him while reading the newspaper. Ashutosh simply smiled thinking only if Baba knew adrik ki chai story.
"Ashutosh, can you get ready a bit sooner? All the guests including Armaan's mother are leaving today. Even I am going to Shirdi trip with Hiraman today evening."
"Baba, why this sudden trip to Shirdi? You never told me!!! "
"I had sought blessings from Sai baba that I would visit Shirdi if the marriage went off well. And I think I should not make any further delay. So my programme is decided. Armaan has already booked tickets for us. Infact he is also leaving today with his mother. He has some meetings in Mumbai to take care of."
"What is this? Everyone has decided to leave on the same day and nobody bothered to inform me."
"Don't get angry, Ashutosh. Okay can you do me a favour? Nidhi wants to visit our old house, the one which I left in her name in my will. I don't know why but she was adamant. Can you please take her there today? I will now go and see if necessary arrangements are made for our guests to leave".
Ashutosh could not understand why Nidhi wanted to visit that house. But somewhere deep in his heart, he felt good. Something struck his mind and he went to freshen up. All the guests including Armaan, Amma, Baba and Hiraman kaka left by evening and the whole house felt empty. All the buzz and noises of last few days were gone. And a serene silence had set in the house.
As soon as they were alone, Ashutosh's eyes searched for Nidhi. He had longed for this moment. She was in the bedroom reading a magazine.
"Nidhi?" His words seemed to echo in the house.
She looked up from the magazine, her eyes reading and sending the same message as that of Ashutosh. He walked upto her, took away the magazine from her and pulled her up to him. They hugged each other tightly and passionately. Neither of them wanted to let go of each other. They stayed like that for few minutes, enjoying each other's closeness.
Ashutosh was the first one to break the hug. "Nidhi, can you pack an overnight bag for both of us?"
She was disappointed when he moved away from her but surprised to listen to what he had said. "Are we going somewhere?"
"Yes, hurry up. I am waiting for you in the living room."
Nidhi was confused but took out a bag from the cupboard and stated packing.
Chapter 6
They stopped for a quick dinner at a restaurant. Though they had been in a relationship for a while now, still there was so much to learn more about each other. They talked about their likes, dislikes, hobbies, friends, everything that they wanted to share with each other. Nidhi was surprised to know that Ashutosh was a state level swimmer during his college days and loved to watch rugby or Hollywood comedy movies in his spare time. She always thought him to be a bookworm, always updating his medical knowledge. Ashutosh too was amazed to know that Nidhi was associated with a local NGO and taught street children every weekend. She had learnt Bharatnatyam, which explained her love for dance.
They wanted to talk more but they were very much aware of the strong sexual undercurrents between them. Both knew what lay ahead that night. There were no medical calls, no rituals, no functions, no family or relatives to interrupt them. Unless they were really jinxed and something unexpected came up.
"Where are we going, Dr Ashutosh "? Nidhi asked for the umpteenth time as they drove in the car.
"Have patience. And stop calling me Dr Ashutosh now. You can just call me Ashutosh. We are married now!!!"
"I can't do that."
"What you can't do- have patience or call me Ashutosh?"
"Both!!!"
"Well, let us see then!!!" Ashutosh challenged her.
After a while, Nidhi gaped in surprise when Ashutosh took a turn which led to 'Baba ka ghar'. The house which was close to Ashutosh's heart, where he was brought up. The house which his Baba and her Nanaji had gifted to her. The house which created hatred for Nidhi in his heart. The house which forced Ashutosh to choose between Nidhi and his happiest days of life spent in that house. The house which made him think whether he should love or hate Nidhi. The house which she wanted to gift to Ashutosh. The house which brought their destinies together.
Ashutosh could see the change of expressions and emotions on Nidhi's face. He exactly knew what was going in her mind because he was thinking the same.
"Thank you so much, Dr Ashutosh. I could have not asked for more today. Did Baba tell you that I wanted to visit this house?"
"Yes he did. And that's when I decided that we will spend a night at this house, which is so precious to both of us. It is symbolic to me in a way that we were meant to be together, Nidhi." Ashutosh voice was filled with emotion.
Nidhi watched him and felt a tear in the corner of her eyes.
They reached the gate and Nidhi was in for further surprise. She was greeted with a board on the gate and her mouth fell open when she saw what was written on the board 'Welcome, Mrs Ashutosh'.
As they stood outside the door of the house, she thought that she would faint. There were small diyas at the entrance and floating candles in the foyer. The whole house was lit with kandeels and decorated with different combination of flowers ' roses, tulips and orchids. There was a wonderful aroma in the air.
Nidhi was stunned and speechless. She looked at Ashutosh, her words failing her but her eyes and her face saying it all.
Chapter 7
Nidhi was just about to enter the house when Ashutosh stopped her. Suddenly he produced a kalash filled with rice and a silver tray filled with kumkum water.
"I really don't believe in all these rituals but I specifically liked the grahpravesh. I thought you should have such a one for this house also." Ashutosh cleared her confusion and put down the kalash and tray at the entrance.
Nidhi hadn't uttered a single word till now. She was too overwhelmed with thoughtful surprises planned by Ashutosh for her, especially the kandeels. The memory of both of them lighting a kandeel on Valentine Day instantly flashed in front of her eyes.
She completed the grahpravesh ritual and they entered the house. Finally she mustered up some courage and questioned him "When and how did you do all these?"
"You liked it?"
"Liked it? I absolutely loved the whole surprise. I did not know you had such a romantic side to you." She teased him.
"I don't know about being romantic but I wanted to make up for what we missed on our first wedding night. I wanted it to make memorable for us, cherish these moments for the rest of our lives."
Nidhi was touched to hear this. After that misfortunate accident, she had sensed a positive change in Ashutosh. He no longer hesitated to express his emotions and had shed away his shyness to quite an extent. He had once told her that the accident had taught him to treasure life and people that mattered.
"But still, when did you plan everything?"
"Today morning when Baba told me that you wished to visit this house. That's when the idea struck me. I had dreamt of you as entering my life as a bride in this house. What better time than this? I had already had it cleaned and renovated some time back. I had to only pay the decorators some extra money to arrange all these in few hours" He grinned.
"Thank you, thank you so much. This means a lot to me." She hugged Ashutosh. Her love, respect and admiration for him had increased manifolds.
Just then she got a call from dadi bua and she excused herself unwillingly. She went to the garden and chatted with her for a while. When she completed the call, she heard the sound of violin. She was drawn to the music and saw Ashutosh sitting by the foyer window, completely lost in playing violin, his eyes closed to the world. She stood there mesmerized and closed her eyes too, listening to the enchanting music that he produced from his violin.
She opened her eyes as the music stopped and looked at Ashutosh who had a very calm and serene expression on his face. It was evident that he thoroughly enjoyed playing violin.
"Amazing!!! You are simply awesome. What were you thinking while playing violin? You looked so happy."
"I was thinking about you, Nidhi."
She blushed hard and started staring at the floor.
"I have never felt happier before. I have the house, Baba and You. What else could I ask for?"
"Are there any more surprises left now? They seem never ending today."
"As a matter of fact, yes. I have got something for you. I wanted to give it to you on our first wedding night but could not do so." Ashutosh produced a velvet box infront of her.
"What is this now?" Nidhi took the box from him and opened it.
There was a silver charm bracelet inside the box. Various types of multi coloured charms dangled from the bracelet. There were blue letters locks N and A, a heart shaped pink stone, a yellow stethoscope, a green tea mug and a red butterfly. Nidhi could make out that Ashutosh had personally handpicked all the charms, each of them signifying a deep meaning. The letters for their initials, the heart for their love, stethoscope for their profession, tea mug for adrak ki chai and butterfly for her spontaneous energetic carefree personality.
"This is so beautiful and charming. Can you please put in on my wrist?" she handed over the bracelet to Ashutosh.
He took the bracelet from her and slipped it through her wrist. It suited her well.
"Nidhi?"
"Hmmm" Nidhi was too busy admiring the bracelet.
"There is something I have been meaning to tell you for some time. I know you never demanded it nor will expect it from me in future. But I have to tell this to you today."
He sounded serious and Nidhi looked upto him. "Yes, tell me. It seems important to you."
Ashutosh had practiced these lines over and over again in his mind but found it difficult to bring it on his lips. Finally he gathered some courage, looked deeply into her eyes and said "Nidhi, I love you. I love you very much. I can't imagine my life without you."
Chapter 8
For a moment, Nidhi thought that she was imagining things. She could not believe what she had just heard. I love you, Nidhi. She had been dying to hear these words from Ashutosh. But she never made it explicit to him. And today he had said it. The words were music to her ears. She stood there like a statue staring at Ashutosh.
"Nidhi, say something please." Ashutosh was getting uneasy.
Nidhi pinched herself to ensure that she had heard those magical words from Ashutosh. She smiled, moved forward, took his hands in hers and looked lovingly into his eyes.
"I love you too, Dr Ashutosh. You mean everything to me."
Ashutosh felt his heart filled with joy. He never knew that these three simple words could make such a difference to life. Why did he not realize this before?
They stood there for what seemed like an eternity. They both knew they loved each other but never expressed in words earlier. Today the time and the moment just seemed perfect to let their feelings unveil.
Nidhi suddenly felt self conscious, covered her face with her hands and leaned on his chest. Ashutosh wrapped his arms around her and buried his face in her long silky hair. The air was thick with sexual tension and there was a heightened sense of physical awareness between them.
Ashutosh lifted her face up and traced her lips with his thumb. Her lips quivered under his touch. His fingers moved to caress her cheeks and stopped just below her eyes.
"I have always loved that twinkling look in your eyes. Bright and mischievous." He then pressed his lips on her each eye and then nuzzled against her ear. A shiver ran down her spine and her lips trembled. He slowly bent down and caught the trembling of her lips in his mouth. He nibbled at her upper lip first and then the lower lip. Nidhi was experiencing pleasant sensations in her body. She could not control herself and kissed passionately full mouth on his lips.
Ashutosh was bit taken aback but savoured the taste of her lips. They continued kissing till they were short of air and had to move apart to breathe. They both looked sideways, not able to meet eyes. The kiss had taken them to a different world and had set their bodies on fire. They wanted more. Nidhi held his hand and slowly led him to the bedroom. Ashutosh was taken aback once more. Little did he know the thoughts going on in Nidhi's mind.
Nidhi wanted to make him feel special, just the way he did for her today. For a person who was shy and introvert, Ashutosh had gone an extra mile to express his feelings for her. He had bared his heart and soul today in front of her. He had showed both through his actions and words that how much he loved and cared for her. Now it was her turn to reciprocate her feelings. She knew that no type of materialistic gift would mean much to Ashutosh. He needed to be loved, to be nurtured, to be cherished. And she was going to do exactly that tonight.
They stood face to face against the bedroom door. Nidhi tiptoed and kissed his forehead "This is for bringing me to this house." Then she kissed both his eyes "This is for grahpravesh." She moved her lips to his cheeks "This is for the charm bracelet. And this is for saying I love you." She finally kissed him gently on his lips. Ashutosh felt a tug at his heart. She had thanked him with such lovely simple gesture.
He picked her up in his arms and laid her gently on the bed. The room was very dimly lit and moonlight reflected through the window on her face. She looked so angelic.
"Nidhi?" He looked at her questioningly. Oh she so loved his deep throaty masculine voice and the way her name sounded on his lips. His eyes were dark and intense with desire. She understood that he was making sure if she was comfortable about what was going to happen next. She answered him by pulling him besides her. She then placed her arms on his chest, her face above him and her hair falling on his face. She was going to show him in her actions how much she loved him and how much he meant to her. Ashutosh was enjoying Nidhi's boldness and left himself to her mercy. That's another thing he loved about her, so spontaneous, full of life, following her heart and speaking her mind without any hesitation.
She opened the buttons of his shirt and left a trail of wet kisses on his chest. Ashutosh moaned with pleasure. She tugged his shirt loose from his trousers and pulled it out of his arms. He had a strong physique, thanks to his strict exercise regime he followed every morning. Nidhi had always admired his physical fitness, something she could not keep up to. She kissed his fingers one by one. She took his hands and kissed them on the palms. She loved his strong and efficient hands which had saved so many lives.
She was driving him crazy and he was already aroused. Ashutosh freed his hands and pinned down Nidhi under him. His breath felt hot on her cheeks and his bare chest playing havoc with her emotions. He nuzzled her earlobe and bit it lightly. Her heart beats started racing fast as he kissed her neck and slid his hands downwards to the first button of her blouse. Nidhi hid her face with her hands, too embarrassed to be seen by him. He removed her hands, kissed her on eyes and whispered "There is no need to be shy, sweetheart. I love the way you are."
He made her stand besides the bed, only to remove her saree and unbutton her blouse. She turned his back to him, her boldness vanishing into the thin air. She flinched as he stroked her back. He turned her to face him to find her cheeks crimson red. He caressed her arms, feeling the smooth milky texture of her skin. He cupped her face and kissed her passionately, making his desire evident.
They helped each other remove every layer of clothing they had on their bodies. Soon they lay on bed, skin to skin, either of them unable to speak. Ashutosh looked at Nidhi who seemed nervous.
"Are you scared, Nidhi?" He asked with a concern in his voice.
"A bit." She replied trying to sound brave.
"Listen Nidhi, I would be as gentle as possible. Trust me. But we can wait if you are not ready. I don't want to hurt you."
She was time and again floored by his way of putting her needs first. But it was important that she let him know that she trusted him with all her heart.
She drew him over her and silently nodded indicating she was ready. He lost every inch of restraint he had and moved on her body. Ashutosh cried her name at the same time she felt tension release from her body. He wiped away her tears with his kisses as their bodies, mind, heart and soul became one.
Chapter 9
They lay together in each other's arms, satiated and exhausted from their love making. Ashutosh kissed her forehead "Hey Doc, thank you. I never knew love could be so strong, so powerful, so giving. I am glad to have you in my life." He knew she had completely surrendered to him, trusting him and loving him equally, without any inhibitions. That mattered to him a lot. And to Nidhi as well. It was her way of reciprocating her feelings for him. It was her wedding night gift to him.
Nidhi had never felt so secure in her entire life, being a motherless child always, something she never discussed with anyone, neither Anji nor her father. And Ashutosh had never before experienced the warmth of a woman, he himself being an orphan, been brought up by a man, his Baba and lack of other female relationships in his life except Mallika whom he only considered a friend. They drifted off to sleep, the content and happiness reflecting on their faces as a result of the aftermath of their love making.
Ashutosh woke up in the middle of night to realize that Nidhi was not in the bed. Where is she? He fumbled for his shirt in darkness but was unable to find it. He pulled on his trousers and wrapped the blanket around him to cover his bare torso. He walked out of the room, only to find Nidhi sitting on the top of the kitchen counter, eating noodles.
"You are unbelievable!!! Noodles, at this hour?"
"I was feeling hungry. Needed to replenish my energy." She winked at him. "Luckily, the kitchen is stocked with necessary grocery items. You seem to have taken care of that also. By the way, why are you moving around in this blanket?"
He avoided mentioning that he was bit apprehensive moving semi naked in front of her inspite of the fact that there was nothing to hide now. "I could not find my shirt, so thought of''''" He left his sentence midway when his eyes fell on Nidhi. She was wearing his shirt!!!!
"Why are you wearing my shirt?"
"Because I was feeling too lazy to unpack and wear my own clothes. Besides, it smelled of you. Feels nice on my body." She replied sounding devilishly innocent.
She never ceased to amaze him. Completely unpredictable. Bold. Innocent. Funny. Giving. Mature.
She had rolled up the sleeves of his shirt and it stopped just above her knees. She looked absolutely yummy, sexy and ravishing sitting there, her legs crossed and eating noodles, oblivious to the effect she was having on him.
"Want some?" She extended the bowl towards him, her mouth stuffed with noodles, one of them stuck around her lips.
"Sure why not?" Personally he never liked the taste of noodles but he was tempted to lick the noodle that was sticking out of her mouth, around her lips.
He dropped his blanket and moved towards her. Nidhi sensed his intentions and tried to escape. But it was too late. He grabbed hold of her and took the noodle in his mouth, his lips now playing at the corner of her mouth. He slipped his hands under her shirt, or rather his shirt, to caress her body. Nidhi arched backwards with pleasure. They made love again there itself in the kitchen in the middle of the night.
"You make me do things that I never thought I would do, especially at this age. You are driving me mad, woman!!!! "Ashutosh could not believe they had made love in the kitchen as they made their way to the bedroom.
"What has age got to do with this? We love each other and we are married. Nothing else matters." She just knew how to make him feel good whenever the age difference factor crossed his mind once in a while and he doubted if he is right for Nidhi.
Next morning they unwillingly woke up early as they were due to leave for Paris next day morning and Ashutosh had to take care of few arrangements at KGH. Nidhi fixed them French omlette toast, cereals and orange juice for breakfast.
"This is yummy. I have never eaten such a good toast before. "Ashutosh said with appreciation and surprise in his tone.
"I have been practicing cooking since last few months. It was the only thing that diverted my attention from you when we were separated. It somehow soothed my mind."
"Well, your practice seems to be paying off."
Ashutosh dropped Nidhi at Jeevan Sandhya as she wanted to check on Sukhdev and left for KGH.
Chapter 10 updated on page 11
Chapter 11 updated on page 13
Chapter 12 updated on page 15
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