Aashi was in the midst of getting ready for the pooja. Five hours had passed since Maanveer left, and Aashi had applied mehendi on her hands, adding to the festive vibe. As she delicately adorned her necklace in front of the mirror, she heard the door opening. Turning, she saw Maanveer, looking utterly exhausted.
"I told you, Veer, not to fast. Look at your face; you seems so tired" she said, gently putting her necklace back.
"No, Jaana, I'm fine. It's just that they took so long," he replied, holding her waist.
"Veer, if you're not feeling well, please break your fast," she said, cupping his cheeks with worry evident in her eyes.
"I told you, I'm fine. Now, go and get ready quickly. The guests have started arriving," he said.
" Are you sure?," she asked hesitantly.
"Yes, Jaana, sure," he reassured, placing a tender kiss on her forehead.
"By the way, help me wearing this necklace. I've been trying for the past five minutes," she said, pouting.
"Of course," he chuckled, taking the necklace from her. He carefully removed her hair from her back and secured the necklace. Leaning down, he kissed her bare back, sending butterflies fluttering in her stomach.
"Did I give you a compliment, by the way?" he asked, his hands wrapped around her waist.
"No," she replied, rolling her eyes.
"You look incredibly beautiful. Like the queen that you are," he whispered into her ear, making her blush.
"Thank you, Veer," she said, blushing furiously.
"By the way, I love the pink hue on your cheeks," he remarked, his eyes filled with adoration.
"And the reason is only you," she replied with a shy smile. He placed a lingering kiss on her forehead, deepening her affection for him.
"You go ahead; I'll take a shower," he said, gently pulling away.
"Okay," she said, smiling at him before making her way to the main hall.
Aashi found some guests in the main hall and stopped on the stairs, feeling a sudden unease in her body. Shrugging it off, she approached the guests, putting on a smile. Mishka, her sister-in-law, came up to her.
"Bhabhisa, let's dance," Mishka said, leading her to the center of the hall.
As the music started, Aashi and Mishka began to dance.
Pyar mil jaye piya ka pyar mil jaaye
Haan aisa pyar mil jaaye
Gori shankar ji ke jaisi jodi ban jaaye
Han aisi jodi ban jaaye
Tode se na tute..chhode sa na tute
Aise bandh jaaye...aise bandh jaye...
Preet ho jaye amar ye
Preet ho jaye
Preet ki reet ho jaye.....
Aashi's eyes caught Maanveer coming down the stairs, and a smile spread across her face. In response, he smiled back at her, and she continued her dance. Maanveer joined his father, engaging in conversation with some guests.
Rang mein rang jaye
Sinduri rang mein rang jaye..
Han hum bhi aise rang jaye...
Gori mayya jaisi rangi hain
Shivji k rang mein...
Haan hum bhi aise rang jaye...
Hum ne jo spane bune haiin
Ankhoon mein jo saje haiin
Pure ho jayeee....pure ho jaye..
While dancing on these lines, Aashi glanced at Maanveer, and he understood her silent message. He blinked his eyes in assurance.
Janmo janmo tak
Piya ka sath mil jayeee...
Pyar mil jaye piya k pyar mil jaye
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Gori shankar ji ke jaisi jodi ban jaye
Haan aisi jodi ban jaye...
Tode se na tute..chhode sa na tute
Aise bandh jaye...
Aise bandh jayee.....
Aarav came and held Mishka's hand, joining her in the dance. Aashi, watching them, knew that Maanveer would never dance with her in front of everyone. So, she closed her eyes for a moment, imagining him holding her close, swaying to the music in a dance meant only for them. In her daydream, she felt his warm embrace, his steady heartbeat against hers, and for a fleeting moment, everything else faded away, leaving only the two of them lost in the music.
Preet ho jaye amar ye
Preet ho jaye
Preet ki reet ho jaye.....
Pyar mil jaye piya k pyar mil jaye
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Gori shankar ji ke jaisi jodi ban jaye
Haan aisi jodi ban jaye...
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Haan aisi jodi ban jaye...
Haan aisi jodi ban jaye...
Haan aisi jodi ban jaye...
Haan aisa pyar mil jaye...
Lost in her daydream, she didn't notice that song is over and Mishka is tapping her shoulder.
"Bhabhisa, where are you lost?" Mishka asked, bringing her back to reality.
"Nowhere," Aashi replied, trying to shake off her daydream.
"Maasa is saying it's time for the pooja," Mishka informed her.
"Yes, let's go," Aashi said, and they both started to move. However, they noticed Bhusa, entering through the door. Aashi instantly looked at Maanveer, who was engrossed in conversation with the guests.
"Maasa," Nandni called out, stepping towards her mother. Maanveer heard her voice and looked towards her, his expression changing.
"Wait a minute," Aashi excused herself from Mishka and walked over to Maanveer.
She held Maanveer's hand, her voice filled with nervousness. "Aap please gussa mat hona,humne bulaya hai unhe" Aashi said, her eyes pleading for his understanding.
(Please don't be angry. I called her)
"Hum jaan sakte hai kyu" he said, keeping his composure, his voice low and controlled.
(Can I ask you why?)
"Veer, it's a festival today. Hum sab milke khushi se tyohar mana rahe hai aur wo waha akele, aur dadisa bhi unhe yaad kar rahe the," Aashi explained, hoping he would understand.
(We are all celebrating joyously, and she was there alone and Dadisa was missing her too)
"Aur aapka kya, wo jo bar bar apko hurt karte hai uska kya" he asked, his voice dangerously low.
(What about you? What about her constantly hurting you?)
"Veer Ek shaam ki to baat hai na,please kuch mat kariyega", she pleaded, her eyes filled with worry.
(It's just one evening, Veer. Please don't do anything)
"Aapke kehne par chup hai,agar unhone kuch bhi kaha to Hum nahi sahenge", he said firmly before walking away.
Aashi watched him go, her heart heavy with worry. She muttered to herself, "inke pyaar par khush hoye yaa gussa kare"
(Should I be happy or angry about his love?)
Aashi quietly entered the main hall, where the ladies were gathered, ready to begin the pooja. Taking her seat beside Mishka, she smiled, her eyes glinting with a sense of purpose.
"Where were you?" Mishka asked, her curiosity piqued, as Aashi settled down.
"I was cooling down your brother's heated temper," Aashi replied, her voice laced with a playful tone, her nose scrunching up in amusement.
Mishka understood the reference instantly, her eyes lighting up with understanding, and they began their pooja rituals together.
Meanwhile, Maanveer couldn't help but steal glances at Aashi. She looked exceptionally beautiful today, a sight he couldn't get enough of. He discreetly captured her moments in candid photographs, cherishing her every expression.
"Now, let's wait for the moon to arise," Kakisa announced, her words ushering in a moment of anticipation among the ladies.
"Kakisa, I'll be back in a few minutes," Aashi said, seeking approval with a nod from Kakisa before stepping away.
Alone in their room, Aashi adjusted her blouse, feeling a pang of discomfort. Suddenly, she heard the door creak open.
"Veer, is that you?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of fear.
"Does anyone dare enter our room without our permission?" he retorted, leaning casually against the wall. "Anyways why did you came? Are you fine Naa?",Concern flickered in his eyes as he questioned her abrupt departure, his worry palpable.
Aashi's tense shoulders relaxed at the sound of his voice, feeling safe in his presence.
"Yes, I'm fine, Veer. It's just that this blouse was bothering me, so I came to adjust it," she explained from behind the door.
"I can help you if you want," he offered mischievously, his tone teasing
"No, thanks. I can manage," she replied, her determination evident, albeit a hint of playfulness.
"This offer is available only for today. Soch lijiye?," he persisted, his voice carrying a playful tone.
(Think again)
"Soch liya , nahi chahiye aapki offer" she said, adjusting her blouse, her voice laced with amusement.
(I've made up my mind. Your offer is declined)
"Okay then, I'm going," he said, feigning disappointment before leaving the room, sighing in mock despair.
After a while, Aashi arrived. Mishka handed Kiaan to Aashi,as she needed to greet some guests. Aashi, with a smile, cradled Kiaan in her arms, speaking to him in a soft, loving tone.
"Badimaa was so busy today that she didn't get time to spend with Kiaan, huh?" she cooed, her eyes sparkling with affection
"Is my Kiaan upset with Badimaa?" she teased, narrowing her eyes playfully. Kiaan, in response, rewarded her with a sweet smile.
"Aww, he isn't upset at all," she said, planting a gentle kiss on his forehead, her heart swelling with love.
Despite her efforts to hide it, a wave of uneasiness washed over her again. As Maanveer approached her, and noticed her distress, he gently took Kiaan from her arms, his eyes filled with concern.
"What happened, Jaana? Are you okay?" he inquired, his voice laced with worry.
"No, Veer, I don't know. I just... I'm feeling uneasy," she murmured, her hand rubbing her chest as she attempted to alleviate the discomfort.
"Perhaps it's due to the fast. Let's get you something to drink," he suggested, his concern deepening.
"No, Veer, I can't break my fast. Besides, the moon will rise soon," she insisted, determined to hold on.
"Okay, if you don't want to heed my advice, then at least sit there and don't move," he instructed, pointing towards the sofa.
"But Veer, how can I just chill?" she protested, disbelief coloring her tone.
"I'm not telling you to chill. I'm telling you to rest. You've been managing everything since morning," he said, his voice firm yet gentle.
"Veer..." She started to argue but was interrupted by a guest's exclamation.
"The moon has risen!" the woman announced excitedly.
Aashi smiled at Maanveer, a sense of relief flooding her as he smiled back. "Let's go," she said, and together, they joined the others.
Under the soft glow of the moon, Aashi and the other ladies gathered to worship the celestial presence above. Their hands gracefully performed the ritual, offering prayers and gratitude. Once the moon pooja was complete, they adorned their husbands' foreheads with a sacred tilak, symbolizing their devotion.
Amidst the serene ambiance, Maanveer, his eyes reflecting affection, held a glass of water, gently guiding it to Aashi's lips. She drank, the gesture infused with tenderness and care. In return, Aashi lovingly offered Maanveer a sip of water, their connection deepening with every shared moment.
His gaze, filled with warmth and affection, lingered on her, and in a heartbeat, Maanveer leaned in, his lips softly brushing against Aashi's forehead. A rush of warmth flooded her cheeks, causing her to blush as she glanced around, She looked around and playfully narrowed her eyes at him, smiling.
"Kisi ne nahi dekha, don't worry," Veer teased, his tone filled with amusement.
(Don't worry, no one saw)
"Veer, aap bohot besharam ho gaye hain," she murmured, her voice carrying a mixture of affection and exasperation.
(You've become quite shameless, Veer)
"Aap bhi ho jaiye and hame bhi same return kar de," Veer challenged pointing his index finger on his cheek, his eyes dancing with mischief.
(You too, join the fun and return the favor)
"Nahi Milne wali , bhool jaiye," she replied, her tone playful yet affectionate. Manveer pretended to look away, sporting a fake, exaggeratedly sad expression.
(Not gonna happen, forget it)
she scanned their surroundings, Assured that they were unnoticed. In a swift, daring move, she raised her heels and planted a quick, soft kiss on his cheek, catching him off guard. Manveer looked at her, his eyes widening in joyful surprise. Aashi smiled at him, their shared happiness evident in their exchanged glances. However, the moment of bliss was abruptly interrupted when Aashi felt another wave of uneasiness wash over her, accompanied by dizziness. Before she could collapse, Maanveer swiftly caught her in his arms, his previously happy face now etched with worry.
"What happened, Jaana?" he asked, his worry evident as he held her close.
"I don't know, Veer. I feel so dizzy," she mumbled, her strength failing her.
Maanveer glanced around, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. "I think Rani Sa might be pregnant," a lady suggested, attempting to decipher the situation.
"No, she can't be. She has complications, and the doctors said she can't conceive," Nandini interjected.
Maanveer's jaw clenched, his concern shifting entirely to Aashi. Scooping her up, he swiftly left the gathering, shooting a fierce glare at Nandini.
Once in their room, he gently laid Aashi on the bed, his family members hovering anxiously.
"Jaana, please open your eyes," he pleaded, his voice laced with fear as he lightly tapped her cheeks.
"I think she might be dehydrated," Mishka suggested, handing Maanveer a glass of juice.
Maanveer carefully made her drink, relief flooding him as Aashi slowly opened her eyes.
"Are you okay? Let's go to the hospital," he said, his worry deepening.
"No, Hukum, I'm fine. There's no need to go," she assured, her voice weak but determined.
"No, Aashi, you're not fine," he protested, his fear for her evident in his eyes.
"I'm fine, Hukum. I just fasted after a long time; that's why I might be feeling weak," she explained, trying to reassure him with a weak smile.
"Are you sure?" he asked, his gaze searching her face for any signs of discomfort.
"Yes," she nodded, her smile growing slightly stronger. With that, everyone left, leaving Aashi and Maanveer alone.
"I'll be back in a moment," he said, kissing her forehead gently before leaving the room.
In the main hall, he stopped his buasaa with a calm yet firm demeanor.
"Where are you going, Bhuasa?" he inquired, his voice steady.
"To my new house," Nandini said bitterly.
"Not before you hear my next declaration," Maanveer stated, his words carrying an air of authority that demanded attention.
Confusion settled among the family members. "What declaration?" Dadisa asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Bhuasa will not enter this haveli anymore, at least not in Aashi's presence," Maanveer declared, his voice unwavering.
"What has come over you, Veer? Why are you becoming her enemy?" Dadisa questioned, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"I'm not her enemy, but she is. She's hurting my wife, and I can't tolerate that," he asserted before turning away, his resolve unshaken.
Aashi carefully removed her jewelry, observing Maanveer as he locked the room. A soft smile graced her lips as she approached him.
"Is your offer still valid?" she inquired, her eyes filled with anticipation.
"This special offer is reserved for you for a lifetime," he affirmed, enveloping her in a warm embrace from behind.
"Then help me," she requested, her voice carrying a blend of desire and trust.
Maanveer smiled tenderly at her, his fingers delicately undoing her jewelry. With each piece he removed, he placed gentle kisses on her skin. Her bangles slipped off, and he kissed her wrist affectionately. The mangtika followed, his lips grazing her hair, leaving a trail of soft warmth. Her earrings came next, and he planted tender kisses on her ears. As he unclasped her necklace, his lips met the sensitive skin of her neck. With the removal of her waistband, he pressed a lingering kiss on her stomach, eliciting a shiver over her whole body.
"Should I assist with your clothes too?" he teased, a playful glint in his eyes.
"Aapko baatein ghuma fira ke karne ki bhi aadat hai ?" she asked, her tone teasing yet filled with affection.
(Do you have a habit of turning things around and making them playful too?)
"Kyunki aap hamari batein samaj jo jati hai" he replied, his voice laced with love.
(Because you understand my words so well)
"Fine, but your assistance has been more than enough. I can manage the rest myself," she said, her eyes twinkling with a mix of love and amusement.
"Are you Sure?" he said, pulling her closer, their closeness igniting a spark between them.
"Absolutely," she exclaimed, breaking away and hurrying to the bathroom.
Upon her return, she found Maanveer in changed clothes. Aashi settled on the bed, and he gently placed her leg on his thighs. Curiosity piqued her.
"What happened?" she asked, her eyes widening with surprise.
With a smile, he removed a delicate payal from his pocket and presented it to her.
"It's for you, a gift," he said, his eyes filled with adoration.
Aashi was captivated by the beautiful payal, her heart swelling with gratitude. Maanveer took off her previous payal and adorned her with the new one. His lips brushed against her feet, a gesture filled with reverence and love.
"It's so beautiful; thank you so much," she murmured, her eyes reflecting her awe.
"You're welcome," he whispered, his smile tender. "Now, let's sleep. You must be tired."
"You're tired too," she pointed out. "Wait for my gift, Veer," she thought, she mumbled.
Under the soft, dim glow of the bedside lamp, Veer gently pulled Aashi closer in bed. Aashi, her cheeks tinged with a subtle blush, felt her heart flutter in response to his touch. She hesitated for a moment, a shy smile playing on her lips,yielding to his embrace. Veer sensed her shyness and wrapped his arms around her even more securely and asked ""Jaana why you still shy, after all this years of our marriage"
Aashi turned her face towards him, her eyes reflecting boundless love. "Kyunki Aapne kabhi hamare pyar ko purana hone hi nahi diya, har bar pehli bar se bhi jyada pyar jatate hain," she replied, her voice laced with affection, a smile gracing her lips.
(Because you never let our love grow old; each time, you shower me with more love than the first)
"I love you so much, Jaana," Veer whispered, his words carrying the weight of his emotions, as he placed a soft kiss on her forehead, his touch tender and filled with devotion.
"I love you so much too, Veer," she replied, her voice filled with sincerity, her fingers intertwining with his, a silent promise of forever.
With hearts intertwined and a profound sense of belonging, they drifted into a peaceful sleep.
Aashi's look
Maanveer's look
Guys this the longest chapter I've ever posted I request you to vote and comment please𥺠and tell me how's was it