CHAPTER 39: "ROMANCE BREWING IN THE KITCHEN"

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As they descended the grand staircase, the warm hum of conversations reached their ears. The entire family was gathered in the sprawling living room, waiting for them with welcoming smiles. Among them sat Anjali, her face glowing with newfound hope and happiness, seated in a wheelchair that Raghav had lovingly brought her in.

A gasp escaped Kashi's lips as her eyes locked onto her mother. Overwhelmed, she let go of Vishwanath's hand and rushed to her, dropping to her knees. She embraced her mother tightly, her arms encircling the woman who had always been her pillar of strength. A tear of happiness and relief slipped down both their cheeks.

"How are you, Maa? Are you feeling better now?" Kashi asked, her voice trembling with emotion.

Anjali gently caressed her daughter's head, her own tears glistening under the light. "I'm fine now, my child," she said softly. "Nothing gives me more happiness than watching you happy and peaceful."

The entire family looked at them with admiration. The pure, unbreakable bond of love between the mother and daughter was a sight too beautiful to miss.

Vishwanath, who had been silently observing the moment, stepped forward. He bent to Anjali's level touching her feet with utmost respect, his tone gentle. "We are so happy to have you here, Aunty."

Anjali placed her hand on his head, blessing him with all her heart. "Vishwa beta, thank you so much for everything you have done for me and my Kashi. You are an angel sent into our lives by God."

Anjali then turned to Rajendra and Shalini, her hands folded in gratitude. "And thank you so much, Rajendra ji and Shalini ji, for accepting my Kashi as your daughter-in-law. The values you have instilled in Vishwa and your other sons have made them the amazing, dignified gentlemen they are today."

Shalini stepped forward, gently holding Anjali's folded hands and lowering them. "Anjali ji, now Kashi and you are a part of our family. Please don't thank us again and again. Kashi is our daughter now, and it is our honor to have her." Rajendra nodded in agreement, his warm smile reflecting the unity of their family. Anjali, too, nodded, her eyes brimming with tears of gratitude. She silently thanked God for blessing Kashi with such a kind and caring husband and family.

Vishwanath added with a kind smile, "Aunty am I not like your son? Can't I do this much for you and Kashi without needing a thanks?"

Anjali's eyes softened, and her lips curved into a warm smile. "Only on one condition, Vishwa beta."

He nodded eagerly. "Yes, Aunty, say na please."

Anjali held his hand and said, "Call me Maa."

Vishwanath's eyes lit up with emotion, his voice thick with sincerity. "Maa, it would be my honor to call you that. You have given me the greatest gift of my life, your daughter. She is my everything, and so are you now. I'll always take care of you like a son should."

Anjali's hand trembled as she cupped his cheek. "Beta, may God bless you with all the happiness in the world. Kashi is truly blessed to have someone like you in her life."

Vishwanath placed his hand over hers and smiled. "No, Maa, it's me who is blessed to have her."

Kashi watched this sweet moment with tears glistening in her eyes. Her heart swelled with gratitude as she took in the warmth and love in the room. Suddenly, her gaze shifted to Vishwanath's parents, who were silently observing the exchange with pride and adoration.

Gathering herself, Kashi decided to take their blessings as well. Turning to Rajendra and Shalini, she softly greeted, "Good morning aunty..uncle," her voice gentle but filled with respect. She then bowed down to touch their feet.

Before she could, Shalini stopped her, gently holding her arms. "No, Kashi, in our house, daughters don't touch feet," she said firmly.

"You are our daughter," Rajendra added, caressing her head lovingly. "Didn't I tell you this yesterday, Kashi beta?"

Kashi looked at them both, overwhelmed. "Thank you for accepting me, Aunty..Uncle"

Shalini cut her off with a playful sternness. "Ah ah, no, Kashi. Don't call us Aunty and Uncle. Just now, Anjali ji asked Vishu to call her Maa, so if Vishu is also her son now, then you are our daughter too. Right, Anjali ji?"

Anjali nodded, her face glowing with relief. Her daughter was finally surrounded by love and care, a family she had always deserved.

Hesitantly but with evident joy, Kashi said, "Thank you....Maa and Papa."

Tears rolled down her cheeks, but they were tears of joy. In that moment, she realized that while she had always been blessed with an amazing mother, destiny had now gifted her with another wonderful mother and a loving father something she was not bestowed with before. All of this, she knew, was because of one person: her Veer ji.

Her thoughts were interrupted as Shalini spoke again. "Beta, please don't thank us for something so trivial. If anyone is lucky here, it's us. We got such a beautiful, strong, and determined girl for our Vishu."

Rajendra nodded in agreement, his voice warm. "You have brought light to our house, Kashi. And more importantly, you have brought happiness to our Vishwa."

Shalini's eyes sparkled with affection as she added, "Even if I had searched with a golden lamp, I wouldn't have found someone as wonderful as you, Kashi."

Kashi's cheeks flushed with their praises, and she glanced at her Veer ji, who stood by her side the whole time, his hand resting protectively on her back.

The room filled with a warm silence, but Rudra, unable to resist the opportunity, broke it with a mischievous grin. "So Maa, if Kashi bhabhi is now officially our sister, does this mean she can help me convince Bhaiya to let me borrow his new car?

Laughter rippled through the room, lightening the emotional atmosphere. Vishwanath gave Rudra a mock glare. "Don't even think about it, Rudra."

"Relax, Bhai",Rudra raised his hands in surrender, grinning. "I will just ask Kashi bhabhi directly. She will support me, won't you, bhabhi?"

Kashi laughed, her heart feeling lighter than it had in years. This was her family now, a family filled with love, laughter, and endless support. And as Vishwanath's hand found hers again, she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, hand in hand, their hearts forever intertwined.

Anjali watched the scene unfold with misty eyes, a feeling of immense relief and gratitude washing over her. She knew her daughter was in the right hands. A family that loved her as she deserved to be loved.

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Shalini approached Kashi with a warm smile, saying, "Beta, we will start the post-wedding rituals now. First, let's begin with the morning aarti (morning prayer). Today, you and Vishu will perform it together."

Kashi nodded, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Vishwanath extended his hand to her with a reassuring smile as they headed towards the grand puja room (prayer room) adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant flowers. A beautiful idol of Lord Shiva, Parvati and Ganesha rested in the center, surrounded by fragrant marigolds and diyas.

Kashi and Vishwanath stood side by side holding the aarti thali (Prayer plate), as Kashi recited sacred aarti (prayer), creating a serene atmosphere. Vishwanath's hand gently brushed against Kashi's while holding the thali (prayer plate), causing her to glance at him shyly. Together, they swayed the thali (prayer plate) in rhythm, the glow of the diyas reflecting on their faces.

Once the aarti was complete, Kashi began offering it to everyone present. She moved gracefully, her soft demeanor earning smiles from family members. When she turned towards Vishwanath, she extended the plate with a gentle smile and said"Veer ji, aarti le lijiye." (Veer ji, take the aarti.) But Vishwanath, lost in her deep, expressive eyes, stood still, forgetting to take it.

"Bhaiya, bhabhi ki aankhon mein baad mein doobna, abhi aarti le lo," (Brother, you can drown in sister-in-law's eyes later, but for now, take the aarti) Rudra quipped, his mischievous grin lighting up the room. The family burst into laughter, while Kashi's cheeks flushed red.

Vishwanath cleared his throat, trying to suppress his own smile. "Rudra, kuch zyada hi mazaak nahi sujh raha tujhe?"(Rudra, aren't you joking a bit too much?) His tone carried mock sternness. "Waise aaj tera result aane wala hai na?"(By the way, your result is supposed to come out today, right?)

Rudra, feigning sudden panic, exclaimed,"Bhaiya lagta hai mera phone baj raha hai, shayad room mein hi reh gaya, mein abhi aya"(Bhaiya, I think my phone is ringing. I must have left it in my room. I'll be right back.) He dashed away as the family laughed, teasing him. Slowly, everyone left the puja room, chatting animatedly.

Left alone in the pooja room, Kashi shyly moved the plate towards Vishwanath again. "Veer ji, aarti le lijiye," (Veer ji, take the aarti) she whispered. Vishwanath finally took the aarti, but not without letting his fingers brush hers deliberately. Kashi felt her cheeks burn as he continued to stare at her.

Then, to her surprise, he took some of the aarti and gently placed his hand on her head, blessing her with the aarti. "Tumhare liye bhi wifey" (For you too, wifey) he said softly. Kashi looked up, her heart racing at his tender gesture, a warmth spreading through her chest. She offered him a shy smile, her eyes glimmering with unspoken emotions.

Gathering herself, Kashi carefully placed the aarti plate back in its place before turning to him. With a quiet understanding passing between them, they both walked towards the living room, where the rest of the family awaited them.

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As they reached the living room , they were greeted by the warm atmosphere of the family gathered together. But before they could settle in, Rajendra looked up from his paperwork and called out to Vishwanath, signalling for him to come over for some office-related work.

Vishwanath nodded and excused himself, giving Kashi a reassuring smile. "I'll be right back," he said softly, walking towards his father.

Just as Kashi stood there, unsure of what to do next, Shalini's voice called out to her "Kashi beta (child), it's time for your pehli rasoi ritual (First Kitchen Ritual). You don't have to cook the whole meal just add sugar to the halwa prepared by the cook for the ritual."

But Kashi immediately protested, her eyes lighting up. "No, maa. I mean...I would love to prepare it myself. I make very good gajar ka halwa (carrot pudding)," she said, her voice filled with eagerness and excitement.

Shalini smiled at her enthusiasm. "Alright, beta. I would love to taste gajar ka halwa made by my daughter. Come, I will take you to the kitchen."

-

The Singhania mansion's kitchen was enormous, with polished granite countertops, state-of-the-art appliances, and a central island adorned with fresh produce. Shelves lined with exotic spices and condiments added to its grandeur. The chefs and helpers bowed respectfully as the Rajmata entered, and then again to their new queen, Kashi.

Kashi felt overwhelmed by the display of respect and humility. She wasn't used to such treatment. Shalini noticed her nervousness and gently patted her hand "Relax, beta. They are just welcoming their new queen."

Kashi though still nervous, nodded. Shalini then guided Kashi through the kitchen with a gentle hand, offering clear instructions to the helpers to ensure everything she might need was readily available. Before leaving, she turned to Kashi with a warm smile, reassuring her that she could call for her assistance at any time, but Kashi assured her with a confident nod that she would manage perfectly on her own.

As Shalini left Kashi began grating the carrots, she chatted with the helpers, learning their names and making them laugh with her warm demeanor. Her humility and sweetness won everyone over. The chefs exchanged smiles, silently acknowledging that their king had indeed chosen the perfect queen.

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As Kashi stirred the halwa, completely engrossed in her task, she didn't notice Vishwanath entering the kitchen. The staff immediately bowed to him in respect. Vishwanath acknowledged them by nodding and then raised his hand silently, signalling everyone to leave to give them privacy. The room became silent, with only the bubbling sound of the halwa cooking.

The room quieted down, and Vishwanath stood there, watching her with a soft smile. His eyes were filled with admiration, as though he were savoring the sight of his beloved wife completely absorbed in her task. Slowly, he stepped closer, his movements quiet and deliberate.

Kashi, still lost in her work, turned around suddenly, and before she could register what was happening, she collided with Vishwanath's broad chest. She stumbled slightly, but Vishwanath's strong arms caught her immediately, steadying her. The unexpected contact made her disoriented for a moment before she looked up, only to find herself locked in his gaze. His eyes were full of love and warmth that made her heart skip a beat.

They stayed like that, lost in each other's eyes, until Kashi, feeling her cheeks heat up, quickly lowered her gaze. Vishwanath's lips curved into a teasing smile. "Aaj toh meri wifey kuch zyada hi khoobsurat lag rahi hai," (Today, my wifey is looking a bit too beautiful) he said softly.

Kashi's face turned an even deeper shade of red. She glanced around nervously, suddenly realizing they were alone in the kitchen. "V-veer ji....." she stammered, her words barely above a whisper.

Vishwanath raised an eyebrow, amused. "Kise dhoond rahi ho, wifey?" (Who are you looking for, wifey?) he asked.

Kashi fidgeted under his intense gaze. "W..woh....mujhe laga sab cooks aur helpers bhi yahan honge....kahi unhone humein aise dhekh liya toh...." (I...I thought all the cooks and helpers would be here too..what if they saw us like this......) she trailed off, unable to finish her sentence.

Vishwanath chuckled, stepping closer. "Toh kya hogaya agar unhone Hume aise dhekh bhi liya toh!" (So what, if they saw us like this!)

Her eyes widened at his bold words. "K..kaisi baatein kar rahe hain aap, Veer ji? Sab kya sochenge?" (W..what are you saying, Veer ji? What will everyone think?)

"Yahi sochenge," (They will think) Vishwanath replied casually, leaning in slightly, "ki unke Raja ji aur Rani ji mein kitna pyaar hai." (That their King and Queen share so much love) His playful tone made Kashi's cheeks burn with embarrassment. She quickly turned back to the stove, pretending to focus on her halwa.

"Veer ji, please aap yahan se jaiye. Mujhe pareshan mat kijiye," (Veer ji, please go from here. Don't trouble me) she said, her voice a mix of firmness and shyness.

But before she could fully regain her composure, she felt his warm hand gently pull her shoulder close to him, his arms encircling her in a soft back hug. "Yeh aap kya kar rahe hain, Veer ji?" (What are you doing, Veer ji?) Kashi whispered, her voice tinged with panic. "Koi aa jayega...." (Someone will come..)

"Toh aane do," (Then let them come) Vishwanath murmured against her ear, tightening his hold slightly. "Mujhe meri wifey ko hug karna hai." (I need to hug my wifey.)

Kashi struggled weakly, her protests half-hearted. "Chhodiye na, Veer ji...."

(Leave me, Veer ji....)

Vishwanath smirked, resting his chin lightly on her shoulder. "Kya bana rahi ho, wifey?" (What are you making, wifey?) he asked teasingly, pulling her even closer into the hug.

Kashi's heart raced. She felt her breath hitch as his proximity overwhelmed her senses. She tilted her head slightly and stammered, "Gh-ghajar ka halwa... p-par main sure nahi hoon Veer ji ki yeh sabko pasand aayega ya nahi." (C..carrot pudding.....b..but I'm not sure, Veer ji, if everyone will like it or not)

Vishwanath's voice softened, sincerity replacing his teasing tone. "Tumhare haath ki bani koi bhi cheez sabko definitely pasand aayegi Kashi." (Anything made by your hands, will definitely be liked by everyone, Kashi)

The warmth in his words made her pause, and for a moment, they were lost in each other again. Their world seemed to shrink until it consisted of only the two of them.

When suddenly, a loud "ahem-ahem" shattered the moment. Startled, they both turned to see Rudra standing at the door, a mischievous grin on his face.

Kashi quickly stepped away, her cheeks aflame with embarrassment. Vishwanath, however, turned towards his younger brother with a calm yet pointed look.

"Bhabhi," Rudra said, his voice dripping with mischief, "Hawa mein itni mithaas hai, zara dyaan rakhna kahi halwa zyada meetha na ho jaye." (There is so much sweetness in the air, be careful, or the halwa might become too sweet.)

Kashi face reddened in mortification while Vishwanath smirked sarcastically. "Bohot mazaak nahi sujh raha hai tujhe aajkal," (You seem to be joking too much these days.) he said, moving towards Rudra.

"Bhaiya, ouch! Chhodiye na!" (Brother, ouch! Please let go!) Rudra yelped as Vishwanath twisted his ear lightly. "Bhabhi, mujhe bachaaiye apne pati dev se!" (Bhabhi, save me from your husband!) he pleaded dramatically.

Kashi couldn't help but smile at their brotherly antics. "Veer ji, jane dijiye na Rudra ko," (Veer ji, please let Rudra go) she said softly.

Before Vishwanath could say something Shalini entered the Kitchen,her expression curious. " Ohh ho ab kya ho gaya?" (Ohh ho, now what happened?) she asked.

"Maa, apne ladle se poochiye," (Mom, ask your dear son) Vishwanath replied, finally releasing Rudra's ear.

Before Shalini could say anything, Rudra piped up, "Maa, maine toh bas Bhaiya aur Bhabhi ko thoda cheda tha. Toh phir mein aur karu bhi kya bhaiya jab dekho jahan dekho bhabhi ke saath romance shuru kar dete hain" (Maa, I was just teasing Bhaiya and Bhabhi a little. What else can I do? Bhaiya every time I look, wherever I look, you start romancing with Bhabhi.)

Both Kashi and Vishwanath looked away, clearly embarrassed. Shalini chuckled, shaking her head. "Haan toh? Nayi nayi shaadi hui hai dono ki. Thoda romance toh banta hai" (Yes, so what? They both have just gotten married. A little romance is justified)

Kashi peeked at Vishwanath shyly, and their eyes met for a brief moment, a silent exchange of affection passing between them.

Vishwanath groaned lightly. "Maa, ab aap iska saath mat dijiye, kam se kam."

(Maa, please now you don't support him, at least)

Shalini laughed, patting his arm.

"Chalo ab tum dono bahar jao. Kashi ko jaldi halwa banane do. Breakfast ka time ho raha hai." (Alright, now both of you go outside. Let Kashi make the halwa. It's almost time for breakfast.)

Rudra immediately ran away to save himself from his brother's wrath for teasing him, earning a low chuckle from everyone. Before leaving, Vishwanath stole one long, lingering look at Kashi, his gaze warm and intent, making her cheeks flush a deep crimson. Shalini noticed the moment, her smile softening with maternal warmth.

_

Kashi hesitated, still a little embarrassed, her nerves evident in the way her soft gaze flickered to the floor. Shalini chuckled lightly and stepped closer. "I know everything feels new, Kashi beta, but you are a part of this family now, my daughter. So, no more hesitation, alright? This is how Rudra Vishu and Raghav are, always teasing and bantering with each other,with Rudra being the most mischievous of the three. There is no need to feel shy or embarrassed."

Kashi nodded shyly, a faint smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Maa. You have all been so kind to me....I feel overwhelmed sometimes."

Shalini shook her head with a tender smile. "You deserve all this and more, beta. Besides, we are the ones blessed to have you with us. Vishu has been glowing with happiness ever since you entered his life."

Kashi couldn't help but smile at Shalini's lighthearted teasing, her cheeks turning a soft shade of pink. "He has been so supportive and loving, Maa....I don't know how I will ever repay everything he has done for me."

"There is no repayment in love, Kashi," Shalini said, her tone warm and affectionate. " Beta you know everyone respects Vishu as the King of Bundelkhand, but beneath the exterior of a powerful ruler lies a man who longs for true love and companionship. And you are his solace, his true companion. Just give him your love and the happiness he deserves, and that will be enough."

Kashi's eyes filled with tears as she nodded, her voice soft but resolute. "Yes, Maa. I will give him the love and companionship he longs for."

Seeing the emotions in Kashi's eyes, Shalini reached out to gently pat her cheeks, offering a reassuring smile.

Turning back to the halwa, Shalini helped Kashi garnish it with the finely cut almond pieces, spreading them evenly over the dish. The vibrant orange halwa glistened under the kitchen lights, and they both admired the final product. "Perfect," Shalini said with a smile. She handed the bowls to a nearby helper and instructed them to place the halwa on the dining table.

As the helper carried the tray out, Shalini turned to Kashi. "Come, beta. Let's go. It's almost time for breakfast, and I'm sure everyone is eagerly waiting to taste your gajar ka halwa."

Kashi smiled shyly, still a little nervous but grateful for the warmth and acceptance she felt in her new family. Together, she and Shalini left the kitchen, their bond growing stronger with every step they took.

Words : 3.6K

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