Next Morning.....
The soft light of dawn filters through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. Aarvi stirs in her sleep, her body curled comfortably in the sheets. The peaceful silence is broken only by the sound of birds outside and the soft rustle of Darshil moving in the room.
Aarvi slowly opens her eyes, blinking against the light. She feels a sense of calm, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions from the night before. As she turns in the bed, she sees Darshil standing by the window, already dressed, but there's something different about his stance-like he's waiting for her to wake up.
She sits up slowly, rubbing her eyes and looking at him with a mix of curiosity and sleepiness.
You're up early. Aarvi said after yawning
Darshil turns around, a soft smile playing on his lips as he walks toward her, his eyes holding something she can't quite place.
I had a reason to be. Darshil said with a smile
What reason? You're usually the one who sleeps in. Aarvi muumbles
Darshil laughs softly, stepping closer to her, his presence drawing her attention. She turns to face him, noticing the way he's looking at her-intense, but with a warmth that makes her heart skip a beat. There's something about his gaze that's different today.
I had to be here. For you. Darshil said
Aarvi frowns, puzzled by his words. She crosses her arms, leaning against the dresser.
For me? Why? What's going on? Aarvi asked
Darshil reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small, elegantly wrapped box. Her eyes widen as she looks at it, realization slowly dawning on her.
Happy birthday, Hazel. Darshil said with a soft smile
Aarvi's breath catches in her throat. She had almost forgotten her own birthday, the chaos of everything else clouding her mind. She looks at the box in his hand, then back at him, completely caught off guard.
You... remembered? Aarvi whispers
Of course I did. How could I forget the day that brought you into this world? Darshil said
Aarvi's heart flutters, her mind spinning. She wasn't expecting this-an acknowledgment of something as personal as her birthday. She reaches out, taking the box from his hand, her fingers brushing against his.
She opens it slowly, revealing a delicate necklace inside-a simple but elegant diamond pendant that shines in the morning light. Her eyes widen, and she feels a lump form in her throat.
Darshil... you didn't have to- Aarvi said
I wanted to. And not just because it's your birthday. I came back early because I wanted to be here with you. Darshil said interrupting her.
Aarvi looks up at him, her emotions swirling. She remembers Nandini ji told that he will arrive after 2 more weeks, but he arrives early. She had been confused about his sudden arrival, but now it all made sense.
You... came back just for my birthday? Aarvi said
Darshil nods, stepping closer to her, his voice deep and sincere.
Yes. I couldn't miss it. No matter how much work I have, I'll always make time for you. You're more important than anything else. Darshil said
Aarvi's chest tightens at his words, and she suddenly feels overwhelmed. The wall she had built around herself has already begun to crack, and she doesn't know how to handle the flood of emotions threatening to break through.
Darshil.... I -Aarvi said but Darshil puts a finger on her lips and gently takes her hand, his touch grounding her.
You don't have to say anything. I just want you to know that I'm here and I will always be. Darshil said
Aarvi's eyes fill with affection and maybe some glimpses of love. She had been so conflicted for so long, trapped between her growing feelings for him and the remnants of her resentment over how their marriage had started. But today, something feels different. Today, she can't deny that Darshil has become more than just the man she was forced to marry.
She looks down at the necklace in her hand, feeling the weight of his gesture, of his words. Slowly, she unclenches her fingers and holds it out to him.
Darshil's eyes soften even more, and he takes the necklace from her hand with a gentle smile. He steps behind her, his fingers brushing against her neck as he clasps the necklace around her. Aarvi closes her eyes for a moment, letting herself savor the feeling of his touch, the warmth of his presence.
When he's finished, she turns to face him again, her emotions still raw but no longer hidden.
Thank you... for this. For everything. Aarvi said
You don't have to thank me, Aarvi. I'll always be there for you and always love you no matter what. Even if you push me away, I'll never stop trying to be the man you deserve. Darshil said
Aarvi's heart swells at his words, and for the first time in a long time, she feels a sense of peace wash over her. She knows their journey is far from over, and there are still things she needs to work through, but in this moment, she's willing to let herself believe that maybe, just maybe, they could find happiness together.
She reaches up, touching the necklace around her neck, her eyes meeting his.
I think... I might be starting to believe you. Aarvi said softly
Darshil smiles, his eyes lighting up with hope and affection.
Took you long enough. Darshil said in a teasing tone.
Aarvi rolls her eyes, but there's no real annoyance behind it this time.
Don't get too full of yourself. It's still my birthday, remember? Aarvi said
Of course, I remember. And I plan on making it the best birthday you've ever had. Darshil said
Aarvi smiles.
Let's see. Aarvi said
Now get ready soon, everyone must be waiting to wish you and bless you. Darshil said
Yeah.... I'll be back. Aarvi said and walked to the washroom.
After an hour, Aarvi and Darshil walk down the stairs together, his hand resting gently at the small of her back as they descend. Aarvi's face is slightly flushed, still feeling the afterglow of the tender moment they shared upstairs. She's wearing a soft pastel kurta, simple but elegant, and Darshil can't help but admire how effortlessly beautiful she looks.
As they reach the bottom of the stairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm parathas wafts through the house. The dining room is lively, with Nandini, Poorva, and little Ruhi already seated, chatting amongst themselves. Ruhi is the first to spot them, her face lighting up as she leaps from her chair.
Happy birthday chachi. Ruhi said
Ruhi rushes over, throwing her arms around Aarvi's waist. Aarvi's heart melts at the little girl's enthusiasm, and she bends down to give Ruhi a warm hug.
Thank you, Ruhi! Aarvi said with a smile.
Ruhi beams up at her, then tugs at her hand to lead her to the table.
Come on! Dadi and bua have been waiting to wish you too! Ruhi said
Aarvi exchanges a quick glance with Darshil, who gives her an encouraging nod. As they step into the dining room, Nandini ji stands up from her seat, her face glowing with affection. Poorva, seated next to her, smiles warmly at Aarvi.
Aarvi, beta, come here. Nandini ji said
Aarvi walks toward her, and Nandini pulls her into a gentle hug, her hands resting on Aarvi's head in a gesture of blessing.
Happy birthday, beta. May you always stay blessed and happy. You've brought so much joy into this house. Nandini ji said
Aarvi feels a warmth spread through her.
Thank you, Dadi. I'm so lucky to be a part of this family. Aarvi said as she smiles gratefully, her eyes misting slightly.
Poorva steps forward next, her smile bright as she hugs Aarvi.
Happy birthday, Aarvi! I hope Darshil hasn't ruined your morning with his terrible jokes. Poorva said
Aarvi chuckles, glancing over at Darshil, who's leaning casually against the doorframe, arms crossed and an amused smirk on his face.
Oh, he's tried, but I'm surviving. Aarvi said
Darshil raises an eyebrow, stepping forward.
Excuse me? My humor is top-notch, thank you very much. Darshil mocked getting offended.
Enough of your humor, Darshil. Today is Aarvi's day. And we've got a lot planned for her. Nandini ji said
The house is getting decorated for the party, Aarvi bhabhi! There's going to be so many lights and flowers! Ruhi said jumping out of excitement.
A party? Aarvi asked in surprise
Yes, beta. It's a special day, also your first birthday with us, and we wanted to celebrate it properly. Nandini ji said
Poorva smiles, leaning forward with a conspiratorial grin.
Dadi's been running the decorators ragged for the past two days. We've got fairy lights, flowers, candles-everything. You're going to love it. Poorva said
Aarvi's heart swells at the thought. This was more than just a party-it was a sign of how much this family truly cared for her. Despite her initial hesitation when she first married into Darshil's world, she now felt a sense of belonging that was hard to ignore.
You all didn't have to go through so much trouble... Aarvi said
It's no trouble at all, beta. You've brought so much happiness to this family. It's only right that we celebrate you. Nandini ji said
Darshil watches quietly from the side, taking in the scene with a satisfied look. He leans closer to Aarvi, his voice low but full of affection.
See? You're not just part of this family-you're the reason it's complete. Darshil said
Aarvi glances at him, feeling an unfamiliar but welcome warmth creeping through her chest.
And there's cake! A big one with chocolate and strawberries! Ruhi said
Aarvi laughs, ruffling Ruhi's hair.
Well, if there's cake involved, I'm definitely in. Aarvi said playfully
The table erupts in light-hearted laughter as they all settle in for breakfast.
After breakfast, Aarvi, I'll show you the decorations. You must be ready early for tonight. Nandini ji said
You've got to look like the queen of the evening, after all. Poorva said
Queen of the evening, huh? I guess that means I'm just your humble servant tonight. Darshil said
Aarvi gives him a mock glare, her lips curving into a smile.
Stop teasing my Aarvi. Nandini ji said
I am not teasing, I am just admiring. Darshil said with a soft smile.
After the touching moment between Darshil and Aarvi earlier in the morning and family time at breakfast, Darshil had something else planned. He led Aarvi down a long hallway, her hand nestled securely in his, while a hint of mystery danced in his eyes.
Where are we going? You've been acting all secretive since we finished breakfast. Aarvi said
Darshil smirked, giving her hand a playful squeeze.
Patience, Mrs. Rajvanshi. You'll see soon enough. Darshil said
He stopped in front of a large set of wooden double doors, the ones Aarvi had never paid much attention to in the past. She glanced at him, raising an eyebrow.
What's behind this door? Aarvi asked suspiciously
Darshil pushed the doors open with a grand flourish, revealing a room that had been transformed beyond anything Aarvi could have imagined. Her breath caught in her throat as she stepped inside.
The once empty room was now a massive, elegant library. Shelves lined the walls from floor to ceiling, filled with fictional books of all kinds- classic novels, rare editions, modern bestsellers.
In the center of the room was a reading nook by a large window, with couch and a soft throw. There was even a ladder to reach the higher shelves, just like in old-world libraries. The space felt warm, inviting, and utterly magical.
Aarvi stood frozen, her hand covering her mouth as her eyes scanned the room in awe. She took in the sight of the beautifully arranged bookshelves, the cozy reading nook, and the large window that let in a flood of natural light. It was a bibliophile's dream.
Darshil... this... this is... Aarvi whispers looking around
Darshil watched her with a satisfied grin, stepping behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist, his chin resting on her shoulder as he admired her reaction.
She turned to face him, her eyes wide with disbelief.
I can't believe this... When did you do this? How did you- Aarvi said beimg stunned
She paused, realizing something that didn't add up. He had been in Italy for the past few weeks, and yet, this transformation must have taken time.
You were in Italy... How did you get all this done? And why didn't I notice anything happening? Aarvi said
Darshil chuckled, brushing a lock of hair from her face as he met her gaze.
Who said you have to be present for everything to notice it? I'm for everything too good at keeping secrets. Darshil said playfully
He gently turned her to face the room again, his hands on her shoulders as they stood together.
I planned this before I left for Italy. I made sure the workers came in while you were out with Dadi and Poorva, and I had them finish up just before I came back. I wanted it to be perfect for today. Darshil said
Aarvi's heart swelled with emotion, tears prickling the corners of her eyes. She turned to him again, her hand resting against his chest.
But why...? You already gave me that beautiful necklace. Why go through all this trouble? Aarvi said
Darshil's expression softened, his eyes locking onto hers with a rare vulnerability. He cupped her face in his hands, his thumb gently stroking her cheek.
Because I know you have no such interest in money, fancy desires or jewellery . I know how much you love books. I see the way you escape into them, the way your face lights up when you're reading. I wanted to give you a place that's yours, a place where you can find peace, where you can get lost in your stories. Darshil said
Aarvi was lost in his eyes, she felt her heart beating fast, she wanted to hug him but something was stopping her, maybe guilt or something else.
You could have just gifted some books, but the library, why did you do all this? Aarvi said
His voice dropped, becoming more serious as his thumb traced the outline of her lips.
I did this because I wanted to see you smile, Hazel. I want to give you something that makes you happy... something that's just for you. Not for me, not for anyone else -just for you. Darshil said
Just for a smile? You created a huge library just for my smile? Aarvi asked
For me, a single smile of yours, is more precious than my whole existence. Darshil said
Aarvi felt a tear slip down her cheek, overwhelmed by his words, by the thoughtfulness behind his gift. She had never expected this side of him-the Darshil who noticed, who cared deeply enough to create something so personal, just to see her happy.
I... I don't even know what to say. This is... the most beautiful thing anyone has ever done for me. Aarvi said in a trembling voice.
Darshil smiled softly, his thumb wiping away her tear.
Then just say you'll use it. Say you'll spend your days in here, getting lost in your favorite books, and that every time you do, you'll think of me. Darshil said
Aarvi let out a soft laugh, shaking her head as more tears fell, but this time, they were tears of joy.
How could I not think of you? You've given me the most incredible gift. Aarvi said
That's all I want as my return gift. Darshil said
Aarvi stepped closer to him, her hand resting on his cheek as she gazed up into his eyes.
Thank you, Darshil. For this, for everything. I... I sometimes think, I don't deserve this. Aarvi said looking into his eyes.
Darshil's expression shifted, his eyes darkening with intensity as he pulled her closer, his voice low and serious.
You deserve everything, Hazel. And I'll spend the rest of my life proving that to you. Darshil said
Aarvi's heart raced at his words, the sincerity in his voice making her feel something she hadn't allowed herself to feel in a long time.
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So guys, that's all for today.
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As English is not my first language so there can be some grammatical mistakes, I just request to please ignore it.
Thankyouð¥