💫STEPPING INTO NEW ERA -CHAPTER-20

Third pov:

The flight had landed early, and by dawn, everyone arrived at the village. Rudhran, however, had come the previous night, determined to ensure everything was perfect for this special day. His ever-reliable assistant, Sandeep, had meticulously arranged every detail as per Rudhran's instructions.

Yamuna and her son Ajay, however, wore expressions of disinterest, their lack of enthusiasm evident. In contrast, Ganga Patti's joy was infectious. Stepping onto her native soil seemed to energize her, her wrinkled face lighting up with nostalgia as she relived her youth in her mind.

Aaradhya, visiting the village for the first time, was awestruck. Their wide-eyed wonder roamed over the sprawling fields, swaying palm trees, and vibrant red-tiled houses.

Priya stayed close to Vishnu, excitedly pointing out details of the picturesque scenery. Even Vishnu, though familiar with the village, couldn't help but feel the tranquility of the countryside, a stark contrast to the chaos of city life.

Meanwhile, Rajendran sat quietly in the car, his eyes fixed ahead. The village, a place that had once been the foundation of his life, now brought bittersweet memories. It was here that he had grown up, gone to school, and met Rudhran's mother. But those memories now bore the weight of regret, a reminder of what he had lost due to his mistakes.

As the cars approached the ancestral home, the group was left speechless. The house stood proudly, adorned with fresh flower garlands swaying gently in the breeze. White and gold fabric draped the walls, while vibrant kolams (rangoli) lined the pathway to the grand entrance. Workers moved swiftly, adding the final touches to the festive decor. Even the nearby temple seemed to echo the celebratory spirit, its bells ringing as if to announce something momentous.

"What's all this?" Dhivya asked, feigning curiosity, though her mischievous grin suggested she already knew.

Sathyan chuckled. "Looks like someone's wedding. Wonder whose it could be?"

Rajendran's brow furrowed as he glanced at Yamuna and Ajay. Yamuna scoffed, unimpressed by the liveliness around her, while Ajay leaned lazily against the car, engrossed in his phone.

Breaking the moment, Vishnu stepped forward with uncharacteristic urgency. "Hurry up, everyone! We're running out of time."

"Why the rush?" Priya asked, stepping out of the car, puzzled. Aaradhya, quietly observing, tilted her head in curiosity.

Dhivya, unable to contain her excitement, smirked. "Patience, anni. You'll find out soon enough." With a playful nudge, she ushered Aaradhya inside, leaving her blinking in confusion but willing to follow.

The atmosphere inside the house grew electric as Rudhran walked in, commanding attention effortlessly. Dressed as a traditional Tamil groom in a crisp white veshti and neatly pressed shirt, his sharp features and confident stride left everyone stunned. His thick, jet-black hair was perfectly styled, and a slight smirk played on his lips. Even the sunlight streaming through the windows seemed to favor him, making him look nothing short of regal.

Ganga patti's face lit up with pride and affection. "Khanna, you look absolutely amazing!" she gushed.

Rudhran smiled back at her. "Thank you, patti," his tone softening with affection.

Rajendhran, standing at the back of the room, looked at his son with a mixture of awe and guilt. It was rare for Rudhran to dress this way, and something about the moment tugged at the older man's emotions. Meanwhile, Yamuna and Ajay exchanged uneasy glances, already sensing that something big was about to happen—and they weren't going to like it.

Rudhran's gaze, however, wasn't on them. His eyes sought out Aaradhya. She stood near the corner, her hands fidgeting nervously, unsure of what was happening. When their eyes met, Rudhran gave her a playful wink, causing her to freeze in shock. Her cheeks flushed and she quickly looked away, her heart racing.

Clearing his throat, Rudhran addressed the family, his voice steady yet commanding. "Well, patti, chithapa, chithi," he began, deliberately excluding his father and Yamuna, "you all trust me, right?"

Sathyan and Gomathi nodded immediately. "Of course, Rudhra," Sathyan said, his voice laced with curiosity.

Gomathi added with a smile, "You've never let us down."

Even Priya, though still piecing together the situation, exchanged a glance with Vishnu. He gave her a reassuring smirk, as if to say, Just wait and see.

Taking a deep breath, Rudhran turned to the entire family and declared, "Today, in our family deity temple, I'm going to marry Aaradhya."

The room fell silent. For a moment, the only sound was the gentle rustling of the wind outside. Ganga patti's face broke into a wide smile, while Sathyan and Gomathi exchanged looks of surprise, quickly replaced by joy.

But not everyone shared the sentiment. Yamuna shot to her feet, her face contorted with outrage. "What nonsense is this? A maid? You're going to marry a maid?" she spat, her voice dripping with disdain. "She's an orphan! She doesn't deserve a place in this family—"

"SHUT UP!" Rudhran's voice roared through the room, cutting through Yamuna's tirade like a whip. Everyone froze,  His face was flushed, his jaw tight as he glared at her.

"You dare insult Aaradhya in front of me?" he thundered, taking two intimidating steps toward her. "I didn't ask for your opinion, Mrs.Yamuna. Keep your mouth shut."

Yamuna recoiled slightly but quickly tried to regain her composure. "I'm like a mother to you, Rudhran,"  her voice trembling slightly.

"Stop," Rudhran snapped, "Don't you dare compare yourself to my amma. You will never be her."Yamuna turned to Rajendhran in disbelief. "Raj, you're just going to let this happen? He's marrying a low-class maid!"

Rajendhran, standing silently until now, finally spoke up, his tone subdued. "It's his life... his choice," he said, surprising everyone, including Yamuna. Though his voice was quiet, there was an unmistakable note of resignation in it. He knew he had no right to dictate Rudhran's life after all he had done.

Before Aaradhya could fully process the insult, her eyes already glistening with hurt, Ganga patti's firm voice rang out. "Enough, Yamuna!" she said sharply. "It's Rudhran's life, and he has every right to marry whoever he wishes. And Aaradhya..." Ganga turned to the young woman, her gaze softening. "Aaradhya is a good girl. Maid or not, she is kind, respectful, and a blessing to this family."

Gomathi nodded in agreement, stepping forward to stand beside Ganga. "Exactly. Aaradhya has done nothing but care for all of us selflessly. Titles don't define a person's worth, Yamuna."

Sathyan clapped a hand on Rudhran's shoulder, grinning. "Well said, patti. And Rudhra, you've got our full support. Let's make this happen."

Despite the love and support surrounding her, Aaradhya remained frozen, her mind swirling with doubt and hurt from Yamuna's harsh words. Ganga patti walked over to Aaradhya, She placed a gentle hand on Aaradhya's shoulder, her voice steady yet soft.

"Aaradhya ma, don't let anyone's words hurt you," her tone full of love. "You are not just a maid to us. You are family now, and you've earned that place with your heart and kindness. Rudhran has chosen you, and we all stand by him. Will you make us all happy and marry him today?"

Aaradhya's breath hitched, her gaze darting nervously toward Rudhran. He stood nearby, his arms crossed confidently, a small smirk playing on his lips as if he already knew her answer. But his eyes, warm and steady, silently encouraged her.

Tears welled in Aaradhya's eyes, not from sadness, but from the overwhelming support she felt from Ganga patti and others. She bit her lip and nodded shyly,

"Yes, patti," she whispered.

Ganga patti beamed with pride and gently cupped Aaradhya's face. "Good girl. You've made the right choice." Turning to the others, she clapped her hands lightly. "Now, enough of this chatter! Let's get moving. There's a wedding to attend!"

Before Rudhran could say a word to Aaradhya, Priya clapped her hands in excitement and chirped, "Yes! It's wedding time! Come on, let's get her ready as a bride!"

Rudhran raised his hand to interject, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "I've already arranged everything for her—and for you all, too."

Priya and Dhivya squealed in delight, grabbing Aaradhya by her hands and dragging her away before she could even process what was happening. Vishnu, called out, "Priya, don't run! Careful!" His tone was gentle, filled with affection for his pregnant wife, but he couldn't help shaking his head with a grin as he watched her excitement. Turning to Rudhran, he smirked. "Alright, Mr. Groom. Shall we?"

Rudhran chuckled and clapped Vishnu on the back as they made their way to get ready.

Meanwhile, in one of the rooms, Aaradhya stood amidst a flurry of activity. Priya, Dhivya, and Gomathi were bustling around her, each woman adding her touch to transform her into a bride.

The mint-green silk saree shimmered in the soft light, hugging her dusky skin perfectly.  Her long, dark hair was braided neatly, adorned with fragrant jasmine flowers that swayed gently as she moved. The ornaments Rudhran had chosen for her complemented her look—a delicate necklace, bangles that jingled softly, and earrings that framed her glowing face.

Priya fussed over her, "You look so beautiful, Aaradhya. Rudhra is going to lose his mind!"

Dhivya, standing by with a teasing grin, added, "If he wasn't already in love with you, this look would seal the deal. My God, Aaradhya, you look like a goddess!"

Aaradhya's fingers nervously clutching the edge of her saree. "Stop teasing me,akka and Dhivya" she said softly, though a small smile betrayed her shyness.

Priya leaned in, whispering conspiratorially, "Don't be so nervous. You're about to marry the man who can't take his eyes off you even in a crowd. You've already won, girl!"

Gomathi, gently placed her hand on Aaradhya's shoulder. "Don't let anyone's words get to you, ma. You're Rudhran's choice, and that's all that matters".

Taking a deep breath, Aaradhya smiled softly, her emotions a mixture of overwhelming joy and lingering nerves.

As the clock ticked closer to the auspicious time, the women led Aaradhya out of the room. Priya and Dhivya, both dressed in vibrant silk sarees that added to the festive atmosphere, walked on either side of her, holding her hands. They giggled and teased her mercilessly, making her laugh despite her nerves.

"Don't trip on your saree, Aaradhya," Dhivya teased.

Priya added with a wink, "And don't forget to look at Rudhran when you reach the mandap. His face is going to be priceless!"

The mandap buzzed with energy as the wedding rituals began. Rudhran sat with quiet confidence on the groom's side, His posture was straight, his face calm, but the mischievous twinkle in his eyes hinted at his inner excitement. The holy fire crackled gently in front of him, and the priest chanted mantras in a rhythmic tone, pausing occasionally to instruct Rudhran on the rituals.

Vishnu, sitting nearby, couldn't resist poking fun at him. " Relax, da. The bride's not going anywhere!" he teased, earning a chuckle from those around. Rudhran shot him a playful glare but said nothing.

In a corner, Yamuna stood with her arms crossed, her face twisted with anger and frustration. Her attempts to disrupt the wedding had failed miserably, and no one had supported her—not even her son, Ajay, who stood beside her looking equally irritated. Rajendhran, on the other hand, was sitting beside his mother, Ganga Patti, his face reflecting a rare smile of pride and satisfaction. "This is what I prayed for," Ganga murmured, her hands folded in quiet gratitude. Rajendhran nodded, pleased to see a good thing happening in his son's life.

The priest's voice rose above the din. "Call the bride. The auspicious time is approaching!" he announced, resuming his chants. The air seemed to still for a moment as the sound of anklets echoed through the mandap.

Rudhran's gaze snapped toward the entrance, and his breath caught in his throat. Aaradhya entered, her eyes downcast, her steps slow and measured. Draped in a mint-green silk saree with delicate golden zari work, she looked radiant. The jasmine flowers in her hair and her dusky skin glowed under the soft light of the mandap. Rudhran couldn't take his eyes off her, utterly mesmerized.

His trance was interrupted when Vishnu leaned over, dramatically dabbing a kerchief near Rudhran's mouth. "Dei, you're drooling," he teased loudly.

The entire mandap burst into laughter. Even Aaradhya, despite her shyness, bit back a smile Rudhran, momentarily embarrassed, swatted Vishnu's hand away. "Shut up, idiot," he muttered, though a small grin betrayed his amusement.

As Aaradhya was guided to sit next to Rudhran, Dhivya, standing nearby with her phone, grinned mischievously. "Oho! Look at our groom! Can't even blink when the bride's around," she teased, snapping pictures of the couple. "These will go straight to the family group!"

Rudhran rolled his eyes at his sister's antics but didn't seem to mind. Meanwhile, his personal assistant, Sandeep, was standing near the mandap, ensuring everything was running smoothly. His efficient demeanor and calm presence hadn't gone unnoticed by Dhivya, who stole a few quick glances at him but kept her thoughts to herself.

When the priest handed Rudhran the garland, he took it with a cheeky grin and leaned closer to Aaradhya. "You look stunning," he whispered, Aaradhya's fingers tightened slightly on her saree, her lips curved as she avoided his gaze.

As Rudhran placed the garland around her neck, he took his time, his eyes locking with hers for a fleeting moment. Aaradhya, flustered yet unable to hide her small smile, took her own garland and shyly placed it over Rudhran's head, her fingers trembling slightly.

The priest then called for the main ritual. "Groom, tie the thaali around the bride's neck," he instructed, but Rudhran was too busy gazing at Aaradhya. "Rudhra, pay attention! Thaali time!" Priya called out with a laugh, shaking him out of his daze. Dhivya snapped another picture of his sheepish expression. Rudhran took the sacred thali in his hands, its yellow thread glimmering under the soft light. Rudhran's expression softened as he looked at Aaradhya, who sat beside him, her eyes still downcast, her fingers clutching her saree nervously. Rudhran leaned closer, his voice low but tender, meant for her ears alone. "Aaradhya," he began softly, "look at me" and her gaze locked into his.

He reached forward with a smile, lifting the thaali(nuptial chain)in his hands with care, as if it held the weight of their future together. With a steady hand, he tied it around her neck, sealing their union.

Aaradhya's breath caught in her throat, her heart a whirlwind of emotions—joy, love, excitement, and a flutter of nervousness. As he finished, Rudhran whispered in her ear, his voice full of tenderness. "I'm here. You're mine, and I will protect you, forever."

Her heart swelled with the weight of his words, and for the first time, she smiled, a genuine, heartfelt smile that lit up her entire face.

As their family showered them with blessings, petals raining down like confetti, Gomathi stepped forward with the vermilion box. She handed it to Rudhran, who took it with reverence. With a gentle but firm hand, he applied the vermilion to Aaradhya's parting, marking her as his, and kissed her temple, sealing the moment with an intimate gesture of love and assurance.

The priest, seeing the sacred bond between them, signaled for them to circle the holy fire. Rudhran and Aaradhya rose together, their hands brushing as they moved around the flames. Rudhran's pinky finger linked with Aaradhya's, a small, intimate connection between them, a symbol of the unbreakable bond they had just formed.. Aaradhya's saree pallu was carefully tied to Rudhran's angavastram (the traditional cloth draped over his shoulder), a symbol of their unity, their lives now forever intertwined.

With each circle around the fire, they promised each other loyalty, love, and companionship for life. Their vows echoed in the air, witnessed by the gods, their family, and the fire that blazed before them. The sacred rituals had been completed, and as they took the final step around the fire, they looked at each other—two souls now bound together as husband and wife. Dhivya was the first to greet them, With a wide smile, she wished the couple, "Congratulations, Aaradhya and Rudhu anna! May your life together be filled with love and happiness." She then stepped forward and hugged them both.

Vishnu, who had been standing nearby, also couldn't hold back his excitement. With a grin, he walked over to Rudhran and embraced him tightly. "I'm so happy for you, thambi"  his voice thick with emotion.

Priya, stepped forward, wrapping her arms around Aaradhya in a warm hug. "Welcome to the family, Aaradhya," Priya whispered with love.

As the ceremony continued, Rudhran and Aaradhya moved towards Ganga Patti, Together, they bent down and touched her feet, seeking her blessings. Ganga Patti, with a serene smile, kissed Aaradhya's forehead, her hands lingering on her, offering a silent prayer for her happiness.

Next, they turned to Rudhran's chithapa and chithi, Gomathi and Sathyan, who stood with proud smiles on their faces. They too gave their blessings,to the couples.

His father, Rajendhran, stood there, watching the celebration unfold with a quiet, longing expression. His eyes were fixed on his son, who had yet to acknowledge him. He stood there, not even attempting to approach, because he knew Rudhran wouldn't welcome him, but the longing in his gaze was undeniable.

Yamuna, seeing the celebration of Aaradhya and Rudhran's bond made her bitterness grow. She stepped out of the mandap, her feet clicking sharply as she walked away.

As Rudhran prepared to stand back up after the prayers, he noticed Aaradhya's gentle hand on his arm. She looked at him with her soft, understanding eyes. "mama, he is your father. He's the elder in the family. Even your mother... she wouldn't have liked it if you ignored him, especially on your wedding day."

Rudhran froze for a moment. Aaradhya's kindness, her compassionate soul, always pushed him to think beyond the hurt and anger that had clouded his relationship with his father, part of him knew Aaradhya was right. He sighed deeply, conflicted but moved by her words.

After a few moments of silence, Aaradhya gently added, "Please, For me, if not for yourself. I want us to start this journey with peace, with respect." Her voice was soft, yet filled with such tenderness that it touched something deep inside him.

Rudhran, after a long pause, nodded slowly. His eyes softened, and without saying a word, he held her hand and together they lowered themselves in front of Rajendhran. The family watched in stunned silence as the newlyweds, in a rare moment of vulnerability, touched Rajendhran's feet—an act that spoke volumes.

Rajendhran stood there, stunned, his eyes wide in disbelief. No one had ever dared to make such a gesture before—not in so many years, a tear slipping down his cheek as he stood frozen, not knowing whether to reach out or not. His throat tightened, emotions flooding him.

Aaradhya, in a tender moment, stood beside Rudhran and softly spoke, "Please Bless us, si- uncle,"

Rajendhran stood still for a long moment, before finally stepping forward, his hands trembling slightly. He placed a hand on Rudhran's head, a silent blessing, and then he reached out to touch Aaradhya's head "Bless you both... may your life be filled with peace," he muttered, with emotion.

Sandeep, who had been waiting near the side, entered with a set of legal documents in his hand. He approached the couple with a quiet nod, signaling that everything was now in order. As the family looked on, Rudhran and Aaradhya signed the papers, officially making their union complete, the final piece of a long-awaited future.

Hey guys!

How's the chapter? Hope you all liked it! 😊

Please, please vote and leave your comments! 🙏 Your thoughts and opinions mean the world to me, and it helps me know how I'm doing and what you all think! 💭✨

Can't wait to read your feedback! 💬 Hope you have a wonderful day! 🌸

Thank you so much for all the love and support! ❤️

FUN FACT : Your lips can't touch while saying "open." 👄❌🔊

Tried it, didn't you? 😂