After the game concluded, a vibrant atmosphere enveloped the household as everyone descended the stairs to reunite with the broader family. The generation gap seemed to narrow, evident in the reduced distance between the elders and the youth. The air was infused with laughter and animated conversations, creating a lively ambiance that resonated with the joyous spirit of the festive occasion. The house echoed with the warmth of familial bonds, making it a memorable and heartening Diwali celebration for everyone gathered.
Rajveer observed the heartwarming scene with a smile from a short distance. Having stepped away earlier to fetch a glass of water, he found himself rejoined by Naina, who stood beside him, sharing in the silent joy of the familial bonds unfolding before them. In a gesture of understanding, Naina gently took his hand in hers, acknowledging the overwhelming happiness that Rajveer felt.
"Everything is almost perfect," he whispered.
"Almost?" Naina inquired.
"Hmm... If only Naveen was here as well," Rajveer sighed wistfully.
"You should be grateful that Bhaiya isn't here. You do realize that you have THREE beautiful young sisters, right? He would've flirted with each one of them," Naina pointed out with a knowing smile.
Rajveer erupted into laughter, nodding in agreement. "You're right. He definitely would've done it... especially after learning about us," he added the last part, delivering a flirty wink.
Naina looked down, a blush coloring her cheeks.
The sound of a throat clearing redirected the attention of the couple towards the center of the living room, where Arnav stood, hoping to address everyone.
"Arnav babuwa, did you need something?" inquired Madhumati with curiosity.
"Actually... there's something I want to share with you all..." he announced, clearing his throat once more. "Um... we... we want to share." Saying the last part, Arnav approached Khushi, taking hold of her wrist. With a gentle tug, he led her to the center of the living room.
Both the Raizada and Shikhawat families (Gupta + Murthy) stared at Arnav and Khushi with a mixture of surprise and bewilderment.
Rajveer and Naina exchanged a knowing look, realizing that something important was about to unfold. They joined the gathering, and as the head of their blended family, Rajveer inquired, "What did you want to share, Arnav?"
Taking a deep breath, Arnav made the announcement, "Khushi and I love each other. We've decided to give this relationship a chance." Khushi blushed deeply as the revelation echoed in the room.
The room fell into a momentary silence before the Raizada family erupted into cheers, and the younger generation joined in with enthusiastic applause, clearly impressed by Arnav's bold proclamation. The Shikhawat family (Gupta + Murthy) exchanged silent glances, absorbing the unexpected turn of events.
Devyani turned towards the elders of Khushi's family, expressing, "We've secretly harbored the desire to make Khushi our daughter-in-law. We were waiting to see if Chhote would take any steps. Now that he has confessed, we officially want to ask for Khushi bitiya's hand in marriage for our Chhote."
Garima and Shashi exchanged smiles, and Shashi added, "If the boy and girl love each other, then we have no objection to this marriage."
"Why wait then? Let's get them engaged today itself," Anjali suggested with excitement.
"That's a great idea," beamed Kishori.
"I'll make the preparations," Shanno declared, rising to her feet.
Arnav and Khushi exchanged stunned glances, their jaws dropping in disbelief as they processed the unexpected turn of events. Panic and bewilderment were evident in their eyes as the families enthusiastically embraced the idea of their union and even proposed an engagement on the same day. Throughout this, Rajveer kept a keen eye on the couple, observing their reactions.
As Shanno went off to prepare for the engagement, Rajveer raised his voice, making a clear objection, "NO!"
His objection left everyone bewildered, particularly both families. Madhumati attempted to reason, "Babuwa, if they love each other..."
"Buaji, I have no issue if they love each other and are dating. What concerns me is the rush towards marriage. Just because they confessed their love doesn't mean they need to get married immediately. I believe they should take time, date, experience the highs and lows of being in love. Marriage is a lifelong commitment. My sister, Khushi, is only 21. While she may have grown physically, she hasn't gained the maturity needed for marriage. She hasn't explored the world around her yet. She's already lost a year, but no more. It's time for Khushi to focus on her studies and build her career. Khushi has two more years of college ahead, and I think she deserves an additional year for her career. If Arnav and Khushi remain a couple over these next few years, then I'll happily organize a grand wedding for them. Until then, they can date each other and nothing more." Rajveer firmly declared.
"But Rajveer beta, dating?" Kishori questioned, expressing her disapproval.
Kneeling before Kishori, Rajveer explained, "Dadi ji, I believe that marriage is a one-time commitment between two people. They should know each and every secret about one another. When two people can share both their light and darkness, that's when they are ready for marriage."
Getting back on his feet, he continued, "Look at Naina and me. We know each other's worst and best sides. We shield each other's deepest secrets while working together to brighten the lights even more. Arnav? Khushi? Can you both say the same?" he questioned his sister and Arnav.
Arnav and Khushi exchanged glances before addressing their families.
"Bhaiya is right. I want to enjoy my college life and feel the freedom of not worrying about my family anymore. I'm sorry, but the last few years have been very challenging for me. The events in Lucknow and then in Delhi didn't give me a moment to breathe freely. The financial concerns, the worry about Jiji's wedding, Babuji's health—everything was too much for my mental well-being. I need time for myself, to build something of my own, where I can proudly say that I achieved it. While you might think I could continue studying after marriage, I know myself. I would want to give my hundred percent to my marriage, and that might distract me from focusing on my studies and career building. Please understand," Khushi expressed her sentiments to their families.
"I agree with Captain Rajveer and Khushi. Khushi has already endured a lot because of me. In the past six months, I was responsible for most of her worries and troubles. Now that our relationship has evolved, I also want to take the time to nurture this new connection with love and care. There's no hurry. We want to take our time before committing to a bond like marriage. We've seen from our past experiences how rushing into marriages can lead to disasters, like Di and my parents' marriage. Taking time to love each other and understand each other can create a beautiful relationship, like Mama and Mami's marriage. Please let us take our time," Arnav earnestly requested.
While both families were hesitant, they understood Arnav, Khushi, and Rajveer's perspectives. Importantly, whether they liked it or not, both the Gupta and Murthy families recognized that Rajveer would now have the final say in any decisions about Khushi and Nandini's lives. As their biological older brother, his authority would prevail. If Rajveer stated that Arnav and Khushi would not be getting married now, then that decision would be upheld.
Shashi, however, was contemplating something different. He heard his daughter's words and didn't realize the extent of stress she had been hiding behind her bright smile. Feeling a pang of sadness, he stood up and approached Khushi. Cupping her face, he apologized, "I'm sorry, bitiya. I didn't realize what you were going through. Unknowingly, we placed so much burden on you."
"Babuji, it's my family. Of course, I would've done it. But can I please think about only myself now?" Khushi requested softly.
"Yes, and I'll scold you if you do anything else," Shashi replied, pulling his daughter into a tight hug.
Smiles appeared on everyone's faces, and Madhumati and Garima also joined the embrace, realizing they had unknowingly placed too much on this young girl without understanding the weight of their expectations.
"Oh well, as long as we know that there's a chance of you getting married now, we're satisfied," Anjali chimed in playfully.
"Exactly," Devyani added with a smile.
.. .. - - - - .. ..
As everyone prepared to bid their goodbyes, Naina approached Arnav, clearing her throat before whispering, "Rajveer sir is calling you in the garden."
Arnav nodded and followed her to the garden, finding Rajveer standing near a large tree with his back turned. "Capt. Rajveer?" Arnav called out.
Rajveer turned around, gesturing for him to come closer. "As you're now dating my younger sister, and I'm four years older than you, you can address me as 'Bhaiya'," Rajveer suggested. "And if I'm not wrong, I'm also a year senior to your sister." He added with a shrug.
Arnav scratched his neck, feeling a bit awkward. While he knew Rajveer was right, he had never had an older brother before and wasn't sure how he was supposed to act. Trying to recall how Akash and NK, his aunt's nephew, treated him, Arnav wondered if he should be wary of Rajveer. However, the memories of how the Shikhawat children [Gupta + Murthy kids] treated their older brother flashed in his mind, and all he remembered was love and respect. "Ah... okay... Bhaiya," he answered with hesitation.
Rajveer gave him a warm smile, patting his shoulder. "I know it will take time. It's okay. You have three years to practice for that," he said with a teasing smile.
Arnav grinned, feeling more at ease. "Thanks for having our backs," he sincerely told Rajveer.
"With my 32 years on this planet, I've witnessed more of the world and different kinds of people than anyone else in this family. The decision to put a halt to your wedding was fifty percent based on logic," Rajveer explained.
"Only 50 percent?" Arnav inquired.
"Hmm... the remaining 50 percent was sheer selfishness. I just got my sisters back; there was no way I was letting them get married so soon," Rajveer scoffed.
Arnav burst into laughter at the response and shook his head. "You had something else to say, didn't you?" he reminded Rajveer after a while.
Rajveer hesitated. "Look... I know I suggested that you guys date for a few years... but... I understand that it's normal... for couples to get... you know? I mean... Khushi is too young... um..." He took a deep breath. "I just think you guys should be careful... all the time," he said with a firm nod before hurriedly leaving the garden and heading for the house.
Arnav stared after him, wearing a very confused expression. He had no idea what Rajveer was trying to convey. "What was he talking about?" he asked Naina, who stood a few feet away with an amused smirk on her face.
"Condoms... He was trying to tell you that if you and Khushi get intimate, then please use condoms as Khushi is still young," Naina clarified.
Arnav's eyes widened in shock, and his face turned red. "WHAT?!" he exclaimed.
"Yup," Naina nodded, her smile widening.
Arnav stood there in a daze, processing the whirlwind of events that had just unfolded. The rest of the Raizada family continued chatting with the Shikhawat family, seemingly oblivious to Arnav's bewilderment. With a resigned sigh, he eventually joined his family.
The exchange of goodbyes began as the Raizada family prepared to leave the Shikhawat residence. Each member expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and festivities. Soon, the Raizada family bid their farewells and departed, leaving behind a sense of joy and unity.
Fab 5, having enjoyed the celebration thoroughly, also took their leave from the blended Shikhawat family. Expressing their gratitude, they left with smiles reflecting the happiness of the night. Given the late hour, everyone dispersed to their respective rooms, ready to embrace a well-deserved night's rest.
...-...
...-...
...-...
Rajveer had wanted to check on Naina's stitches before she retired for the night. However, upon reaching the guest room, he discovered it empty, prompting a puzzled frown. Determined, he began searching throughout the house, his footsteps echoing in the quiet corridors. Yet, Naina remained elusive. His quest led him to the terrace, and as he pushed the door open, he shook his head with a fond smile. There she was, his girl, immersed in the tranquility of the night, eyes closed, and a gentle smile gracing her lips.
Deciding to join her, Rajveer quietly closed the terrace door behind him. Approaching Naina with a soft step, he cleared his throat to announce his presence. At the sound, Naina turned around, and her smile widened, a mix of shyness and happiness reflecting in her eyes as she greeted him.
Rajveer gracefully bowed at his waist, offering his hand with a playful glint in his eyes. "May I have the dance, Cadet Singh?"
Naina's smile deepened, a twinkle in her eyes as she reminisced about the night when Rajveer had patiently taught her to dance. Raising an eyebrow, she teasingly replied, "No."
"No?" Rajveer mockingly pouted.
"I don't want to dance with Captain Rajveer Singh Shikhawat," Naina stated firmly. Observing the disappointment on his face, she softened her tone and continued with a gentle smile, "Tonight... I want to dance with my soon-to-be husband... Rajveer."
A mixture of surprise and joy flickered in Rajveer's eyes before a radiant smile graced his face. He extended his hand once again, this time asking with a touch of formality, "May I have the dance, my soon-to-be wife?"
Naina's response was a tender "Yes" as she placed her hand in his, ready to share this moment of joy and connection.
After Rajveer pulled Naina to the center of the terrace, he held Naina in a perfect dance position, and started singing for her. Each word of the song was expressing his honest feeing to her.
"অনেক সাধনার পরে আমি
পেলাম তোমার মন
পেলাম খুজে এ ভূবনে
আমার আপনজন"
[After a lot of effort, I
Found your heart,
Finally found my own person
in this world.]
The terrace, adorned with fairy lights, created a magical ambiance for their formal dance. With a gentle yet confident sway, Rajveer led Naina in a waltz, their movements harmonizing with the sweet strains of the romantic melody. The night air carried the fragrance of blooming flowers, adding an extra touch of enchantment to the atmosphere. Shifting her hand from his shoulder, Naina gently cradled his face and conveyed a heartfelt plea through the song.
"তুমি বুকে টেনে
নাও না প্রিয় আমাকে
আমি ভালোবাসি , ভালোবাসি
ভালোবাসি তোমাকে"
[You hold me close to your heart,
Don't let me go, my dear.
I love, I love,
I love you.]
In a gesture to honor her plea, he drew Naina closer to his chest, enveloping her in his arms. Swaying to the rhythm of the song, Rajveer's deep baritone voice seamlessly blended with the melody. He began singing, with the lyrics vividly conveying the profoundness of his feelings for Naina. Each word reverberated with emotion, forging an intimate moment between the two.
"অনেক সাধনার পরে আমি
পেলাম তোমার মন
পেলাম খুজে এ ভূবনে
আমার আপনজন"
[After a lot of effort, I
Found your heart,
Finally found my own person
in this world.]
Naina spun around within the circle of his arms, and enveloping her arms around his neck, she joined in the singing. Their voices blended harmoniously, creating a shared melody that echoed the sentiments of their love.
"বিধাতা আমাকে তোমার জন্যে
গড়েছে আপন হাতে"
[The Creator has sculpted me
For you with His own hands.]
Rajveer drew her nearer, securing his grip on her waist, reiterating his commitment through the lyrics of the song. His unwavering gaze locked onto Naina's eyes, affirming the heartfelt sincerity behind his words. Mesmerized by the gentleness in his voice and the affection evident in his eyes, Naina reciprocated the sentiments. The song's lyrics resonated with themes of love, dedication, and the assurance of a promising future shared between them.
"জীবনে মরণে , আধারে – আলোতে
থাকবো তোমার সাথে"
[In life and death, in darkness and in light,
I will be with you.]
Smiling, Naina continued singing, resting her head on his chest while they moved in harmony to the music, swaying gently side by side.
"তুমি বুকে টেনে
নাও না প্রিয় আমাকে
আমি ভালোবাসি , ভালোবাসি
ভালোবাসি তোমাকে"
[You hold me close to your heart,
Don't let me go, my dear.
I love, I love,
I love you.]
Together, they sang the final verse of the song, their voices blending seamlessly in a harmonious conclusion.
"অনেক সাধনার পরে আমি
পেলাম তোমার মন
পেলাম খুজে এ ভূবনে
আমার আপনজন"
[After a lot of effort, I
Found your heart,
Finally found my own person
in this world.]
[Author's note: If you're wondering why I selected a Bangla song, it's because I felt like the words of this songs speaks perfectly for Rajveer and Naina in this story. Also, if there can be English and Hindi songs, then there can be Bangla songs as well ? My story my rules !]
The song concluded with a poignant melody, and Rajveer continued to hold Naina close. In that moment, their hearts seemed to beat in unison, echoing the emotions conveyed through the dance. As they stood there, Rajveer gently cupped Naina's face, his eyes tenderly searching hers. There was a shared understanding, an unspoken acknowledgment of the connection that had grown between them. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in that intimate moment.
Naina's heart raced as she felt the warmth of Rajveer's hand against her cheek. She could sense the anticipation, the magnetic pull drawing them closer. Rajveer leaned in, his breath mingling with hers, creating a delicious tension.
Their lips melded in a gentle, lingering kiss—a silent exchange of promises and the inception of a beautiful journey ahead. In this tender, romantic moment, time seemed to halt, allowing them to embrace the simplicity and purity of their first kiss, sealing their connection. Rajveer infused the kiss with all the love, yearning, passion, and pain accumulated over the past few months.
As they shared this intimate moment, Rajveer patiently waited until he felt Naina fully surrendering to him, leaning into his chest and clutching the back of his bottle-green kurta. Sensing her readiness, he opened his mouth, allowing his tongue to delicately graze her lips, seeking entry. Naina responded with a soft moan, granting him access. This prompted Rajveer to deepen the kiss, his tongue gently intertwining with hers, while his teeth sensuously nibbled her bottom lip. Their kiss became a dance, a harmonious symphony of emotions, expressing the depth of their connection.
Rajveer was utterly captivated by the intensity of the kiss, and it seemed like he could linger in that moment forever. However, he reluctantly sensed Naina's need for a breath, prompting him to release her lips. Unwilling to sever the connection entirely, he continued trailing his lips from the corner of her mouth to her jaw and eventually to her neck. There, he indulged in gentle kisses, mindful not to leave any visible mark. Despite the intensity of the moment, his subconscious awareness reminded him of their impending return to KMA in a few days, introducing a bittersweet note to their passionate encounter.
In the enchanting moment, Naina surrendered to the intoxicating sensations that Rajveer's touch ignited. Driven by the overwhelming pleasure, she instinctively pressed her face into the crook of his neck, lavishing it with fervent kisses that conveyed her unrestrained passion. With one hand entwined in his hair and the other embracing him tightly, Naina unintentionally left a visible mark—a love bite, a hickey—on the junction of Rajveer's neck and shoulder.
After a moment of shared bliss, they slowly drew apart, their foreheads resting against each other. Their breaths intertwined in the quiet aftermath of the kiss, savoring the warmth of their connection. Once their breathing normalized, Rajveer surprised Naina by sweeping her off her feet, carrying her in a bridal style. As he carried her from the terrace, Naina gazed at him in awe, her heart racing with exhilaration.
He gently placed her on the bed in the guest room, and Naina observed him with silent anticipation. Though her exterior remained composed, her heart pounded with such intensity that she half-expected it to betray her excitement. Rajveer fetched the first aid box and settled beside Naina on the bed. Naina turned her back to him, gracefully draping her hair over one shoulder, ready to receive his care. The room was filled with an unspoken romantic tension, heightening the intimacy of the moment.
This time, there was a newfound confidence in Rajveer's movements as he skillfully undid the hooks of Naina's blouse and untied the knot of her blouse string. With a practiced touch, he gently cleaned Naina's stitches, examining them closely. "Naina, your stitches have dried, and the wound looks much better. We can have the thread removed tomorrow, and the rest will heal in two or three days," he assured her.
Naina, feeling a bit impatient, couldn't help but plead, "Do we have to wait until tomorrow? They itch and pull a lot. Can't you take them out now?"
Rajveer considered her request. "I can. But... are you sure?" he asked, wanting to ensure she was comfortable.
"I trust you," she replied with conviction.
A warm smile graced Rajveer's lips as he retrieved a small, sharp pair of scissors from the first-aid box. Carefully, he began to cut the stitches and delicately removed the threads one by one.
[Author's note:: I did this after someone attacked me with a knife a few years ago. I had six stitches on my upper arm. I cut my stitches after it was dried.]
After meticulously pulling out all 24 stitches, Rajveer ensured to clean the wound area thoroughly and applied ointment to promote healing. "You don't need to cover this area with a bandage anymore. Just be careful not to scratch and rub the area for a few days," he advised.
"Okay," Naina nodded obediently.
Once he completed the his task, he bid Naina good night. Planting a gentle kiss on the top of her head, he left the room. Naina couldn't help but smile blissfully as she headed to the bathroom to change her clothes and freshen up for bed. Washing her face, arms, and legs, she then changed into a loose T-shirt and trousers. With a shy smile lingering on her face, she retired for the night, replaying the memory of her and Rajveer's first kiss.