"तेरे प्यार की ये नयी सौगात है,
दिल की धड़कन में बसी एक प्यारी सी बात है।
मुस्कान तेरी अब बन गई है आदत मेरी,
तेरे बिना ये जिंदगी भी अब अधूरी सी लगती है।"

◇

Avyansh nodded his head and sat on his chair.

Avantika stood beside him and was about to serve him, but he stopped her. "I have my own hands. I can do it myself."

Avantika paused, her eyes moving toward everyone, looking at them.

As Avyansh started serving himself, Avantika stood beside him. Then Pakhi said, "Avantika beta, aap baith jaiye. Aap bhi nashta kar lijiye."

Avantika nodded, taking a seat next to Avyansh. The room filled with a warm, familial atmosphere as everyone began to eat, sharing light conversation and laughter.

"Wah, kya poha banaya hai!" Ajay said, relishing each bite.

"Ah, it's bhabhi ke hath ka poha, Dad," Dev chimed in, grinning widely.

"Aaj tak itna acha poha maine nahi khaya," Vijay added, savoring the flavors.

Pakhi looked at him and teased, "Acha, kuch din pehle toh keh rahe the ki best poha mai banate hun?"

"Wo- aap banate hain, lekin iss pohe ki baat hi kuch aur hai," Vijay said, smiling nervously.

Pakhi gave him a playful glare, and Avantika couldn't help but smile.

The warmth and camaraderie in the room were unlike anything she had experienced in her own home. For the first time, she felt truly embraced by the love and acceptance of her new family.

As Avantika watched Avyansh serving her poha, she whispered, "I can do it," placing her hand lightly, but not touching his.

Avyansh glanced at her, his eyes reflecting understanding, and continued serving her.

After everyone had finished breakfast, Dev leaned back in his chair with a mischievous grin. He glanced at Avyansh, who was quietly sipping his coffee.

"Avyansh bhaiya, aapko toh kuch kehna chahiye, right? Bhabhi ne itna acha nashta banaya aur aapne ab tak koi tareef nahi ki!" Dev teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Avyansh looked up, slightly taken aback by Dev's sudden comment. "It is good," he said simply, looking at Avantika briefly before returning his gaze to his coffee.

Devika rolled his eyes dramatically. "Bhaiya, 'good' se thoda zyada hona chahiye tha. Bhabhi ne itni mehnat ki hai!"

Their dadi, Maanyata, who was sitting nearby, joined in the banter. "Haan haan, Beta, Aapko toh khud banana aata hai na? Jab tum chhote the, hum sabko yaad hai kaise kitchen ko war zone bana diya tha!" she laughed.

Avyansh sighed, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Fine, fine. , breakfast was really good. Thank you."

Avantika, who had been listening quietly, nodded."

"See, that wasn't so hard," Dev said, grinning widely. "Dadi, don't you think Bhaiya should learn a thing or two about giving compliments?"

Maanyata chuckled. "Bilkul. Avyansh ko thoda aur seekhna padega."

The teasing and laughter lightened the atmosphere, and Avantika felt a little more at ease amidst the warm family banter.

It was moments like these that reminded her that despite her anxieties, she was part of a family that cared for her.

Pakhi, noticing the lightened mood, decided it was time to bring up the next ritual. "Beta, nashta kar ke aap dono tayar ho jaiye. Avantika, aapko pag phera ke liye apne maayke jana hai. Dev, tum apni bhabhi ko le kar jaoge."

Avantika's heart sank at the mention of going back to her parents' house. Her heartbeat quickened, and a wave of apprehension washed over her.

Memories of past humiliations resurfaced, making her dread the thought of facing her parents. But then, she thought of her grandfather and brother, the only ones who truly loved her.

Avyansh's family, unaware of the complex dynamics at Avantika's parental home, smiled encouragingly. "It's just a tradition, beta. It will be fine," Pakhi said.

Avantika excused herself to change, and as she was about to leave the room, Avyansh came in to retrieve his phone from the charger. He noticed her anxious demeanor and hesitated for a moment before speaking.

"Avantika ji," he said, his voice softer than usual. "Agar aapko wahan theek na lage, toh turant mujhe call kijiyega. I will come to pick you up, okay?"

Avantika looked at him, surprised by his concern. "Hmm..."

With that, she went to change, feeling a small measure of comfort from his unexpected support..

Meanwhile, in the living room, Dev was getting ready as well. He was chatting with his parents, who were discussing the arrangements for the pag phera ritual.

Avyansh, who was preparing to leave for work, noticed the tension in Avantika's eyes when she joined them downstairs. He didn’t say anything, but a flicker of concern crossed his face.

As Avantika and Dev prepared to leave, Pakhi gave her a reassuring smile. "Don’t worry, beta. Everything will be fine. Just go and spend some time with your family and come back quickly hmm?."

Avantika nodded, trying to mask her apprehension. Dev led her to the car, and they set off for her parents' house.

The journey was quiet, with Avantika lost in her thoughts, wondering how the visit would unfold.

As they settled into the car and began their journey to Avantika's parents' house, Dev tried to lighten the mood.

"Bhabhi, did you know that when I was a kid, I tried to cook maggi and ended up setting the kitchen on fire? Maa was so furious, but I still claim it was an experiment gone wrong," he said, chuckling.

Avantika managed a small smile. "Really?"

"Yeah! It was quite the disaster," Dev laughed. "Do you cook often?"

"Sometimes," Avantika replied softly, her gaze fixed outside the window.

Dev, sensing her discomfort, tried again. "So, Bhabhi, what's your favorite food?"

"Um, anything simple," she answered briefly.

"Bhabhi, you have to try my famous pancake recipe someday! It's a family secret," Dev said, trying to engage her.

"Okay," she said quietly, still not meeting his eyes.

Dev glanced at her and frowned slightly. "Bhabhi, aap toh kuch bol hi nahi rahe. Am I making you uncomfortable or something?"

Avantika finally turned to him, a hint of apology in her eyes. "No, Dev. I'm just... a little nervous, that's all."

Dev's expression softened. "Hey, it's alright. We're family now, and I'm here to make sure you're okay. You can talk to me about anything, okay?"

Avantika nodded, appreciating his effort. "Thank you, Dev ji."

"Anytime, Bhabhi," Dev replied with a reassuring smile. "Just remember, we're in this together."

The rest of the ride continued with Dev sharing more stories, trying to make her laugh, while Avantika slowly began to relax, feeling grateful for his support.

As they reached her parental home, Avantika's parents and extended family were already waiting at the entrance.

Her mother, Viransha, and father, Manoj, wore forced smiles, trying to maintain a facade of warmth and happiness.

Her uncle and Aunr were there too, with their children, Shreya and Aarav.

"Welcome, welcome!" Meenkashi greeted them, her smile never reaching her eyes. "It’s so good to see you, Avantika. And you too, Dev beta."

"Namaste, Aunty," Dev replied, his hands folded in respect.

Samarth, Avantika's younger brother, came forward, his face lit up with genuine happiness. "Didi!" he exclaimed, pulling her into a hug. "It’s so good to see you."

"Good to see you too, Samarth," Avantika replied, her smile more genuine when directed at him.

Once inside, everyone settled in the living room. Viransha Manoj tried to engage Dev in conversation, offering him snacks and drinks. Dev, always the foodie, was more than happy to munch on the samosas and chat away.

"So, Dev beta, how is everything at the new house? Avantika must be adjusting well?" Pratham asked, trying to sound casual.

"Ji Uncle, everything is great. Bhabhi is fitting in perfectly. She's already won everyone over with her cooking," Dev replied enthusiastically, taking another bite of his samosa.

Avantika, sitting beside Dev, responded politely but coldly to everyone’s inquiries. Her uncle, Pratham, attempted to make small talk.

"Avantika, how's married life treating you?" he asked, trying to sound interested.

"It's fine, Uncle," she replied curtly, not meeting his eyes.

Meenkashi, her aunt, chimed in with a fake smile. "You must be so happy, Avantika. Your new family seems wonderful."

Avantika’s eyes narrowed as she glanced at Meena. "Yes, they are wonderful," she replied, her tone icy.

Shreya and Aarav, her cousins, tried to engage her in conversation, asking about her new home and lifestyle.

Avantika replied with short, uninterested answers, her cold demeanor making it clear she wasn't in the mood for chit-chat.

Meanwhile, Dev was busy enjoying the snacks and talking with Samarth, who was thrilled to have his sister back, even if just for a short visit.

After some time, Viransha announced it was time for the ritual. "Avantika, beta, come with me. Let's complete the pag phera ritual."

Avantika stood up and followed her mother to the puja room. Dev, still engrossed in his conversation with Samarth, didn’t notice the tension.

As Viransha began the rituals, she continued to maintain her cheerful facade. "Beta, this is a very important ritual. It signifies your new journey and our blessings for you."

Avantika nodded, going through the motions with a cold detachment. She could feel the weight of her family’s expectations and their scrutiny, but she kept her composure.

Once the rituals were completed, they all returned to the living room. Viransha tried to initiate more conversation, but Avantika's responses remained curt and detached.

Seeing her discomfort, Dev finally noticed something was off. "Bhabhi, you okay? You seem a bit off."

"I'm fine, Dev," Avantika replied, forcing a smile.

Samarth, sensing his sister's discomfort, tried to lighten the mood. "Didi, remember our old games? Maybe we can play one before you go back?"

Avantika smiled genuinely at her brother. "Maybe next time, Samarth."

Meenakshi and Pratham continued to put up their act, but it was clear that Avantika wasn't buying any of it. She was eager to leave and return to her new home, where she felt somewhat safer and more respected.

As the evening wore on, Dev prepared to leave. "It was a pleasure, Uncle, Aunty," he said, folding his hands in respect. "I’ll be back to pick Avantika up tomorrow."

"Thank you, Dev beta," Viransha replied, her smile returning for his benefit.

Avantika walked Dev to the door, her heart heavy. "Thank you for today, Dev," she said softly.

"No problem, Bhabhi. Take care, and if you need anything, just call," he replied warmly.

As Dev drove away, Avantika felt a pang of loneliness but steeled herself for the night ahead. She would endure this for the sake of her brother and the few genuine moments she could grasp in her otherwise strained relationship with her family.

After Dev left in the evening, Avantika found herself alone with her parents in the living room. Viransha Manoj ’s warm facade quickly faded, revealing their true feelings.

"Avantika," her mother began, her tone harsh, "what was that attitude you showed today? How dare you respond so coldly to your uncle and aunt? Do you think you’re above everyone now that you’re married into a good family?"

Avantika's hands clenched into fists, her anger barely contained. "I’m not above anyone, Maa. But I won’t pretend to be happy around people who have never shown me genuine love or respect."

Manoj stepped forward, his face stern. "You will respect your elders, Avantika. You’ve embarrassed us today. Do you think your new family will tolerate such behavior?"

Avantika's veins throbbed with suppressed anger. She met her father's gaze, her voice icy. "They tolerate it because they understand me better than you ever have. They don’t pretend to be something they’re not."

Meenakshi ’s face reddened with anger. "Is this how we raised you? To speak back to your parents? You are ruining our reputation!"

Avantika took a deep breath, struggling to maintain her composure. "I’m not ruining your reputation. I’m just tired of pretending. You want me to be the perfect daughter, but you’ve never treated me like one."

Manoj  shook his head in disappointment. "You will regret this attitude, Avantika. Mark my words."

Avantika’s eyes burned with unshed tears of anger. "Maybe. But at least I’ll be honest with myself."

Viransha opened her mouth to retort, but before she could, Samarth entered the room, sensing the tension.

"Didi, are you okay?" he asked, concern evident in his eyes.

Avantika forced a smile for her brother. "Yes, Samarth. I’m fine. Just a small disagreement."

Her parents glared at her, but Samarth's presence prevented them from continuing their tirade. Avantika felt a small sense of relief, grateful for her brother’s interruption.

After the tense confrontation with her parents, Avantika felt the weight of her circumstances pressing down on her.

Seeking solace, she quietly made her way to her grandfather’s room. The sight of him lying weakly in bed tugged at her heartstrings.

Dadu had always been her pillar of strength, and seeing him like this was a painful reminder of how much things had changed.

"Dadu," she called softly, walking to his bedside.

Her grandfather's eyes lit up at the sight of her. "Avantika, beta," he whispered, reaching out to take her hand. "How are you, my child?"

Avantika forced a smile, her eyes misting over. "I'm fine, Dadu. How are you feeling?"

He gave a faint smile. "Old age has its way of catching up, doesn't it? But seeing you brings me strength."

Avantika sat beside him, holding his frail hand in hers. "You need to take care of yourself, Dadu. I need you."

He sighed, his eyes filled with concern. "And I need to know you're truly happy, Avantika. How is married life treating you?"

Avantika swallowed hard, forcing herself to keep her composure. "It's... it's good, Dadu. Everyone is very kind and supportive."

Her grandfather studied her face, his eyes sharp despite his weakened state. "You know you can tell me anything, right? You don't have to pretend with me."

She blinked back tears, her voice barely a whisper. "I know, Dadu. But I'm really okay. I'm trying my best to adjust."

He patted her hand gently. "That's my brave girl. Just remember, no matter what happens, you have a family that loves you."

Avantika nodded, unable to trust her voice. She leaned in and kissed his forehead, feeling a mixture of love and sorrow. "Rest well, Dadu. I'll come see you again in the morning."

"Good night, beta," he murmured, closing his eyes as she stood up.

As she left his room, Avantika felt a deep ache in her chest. She knew she couldn't burden her ailing grandfather with the truth of her situation. For now, she would bear the weight alone.

Later that night, Avantika retreated to her room, unwilling to face her parents over dinner. She was emotionally drained and needed time to herself. She had barely settled in when there was a soft knock on the door.

"Avantika," her mother’s voice called from the other side. "We’re sending your dinner to your room. You need to eat."

"Alright, ," she replied, her voice devoid of any warmth.

A maid soon entered, carrying a tray laden with food. Avantika thanked her and placed the tray on her bedside table, not feeling particularly hungry but knowing she needed to eat something. She picked at her food, lost in thought.

Her mind wandered to the earlier events of the day, the forced smiles, the hollow greetings, and the scolding from her parents. She felt like an outsider in her own home, and the thought of enduring more of the same tomorrow was almost too much to bear.

Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Samarth.

"Didi, I know things are tough, but remember I’m here for you. Love you."

A small smile tugged at her lips as she replied.

"Love you too, Samarth. Good night."

After finishing her meal, Avantika lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. The room was dimly lit, casting long shadows that seemed to echo her thoughts.

She felt a surge of frustration and helplessness. The life she had envisioned for herself seemed like a distant dream now.

As she lay there, a single tear escaped, followed by another. She wiped them away quickly, not wanting to break down completely.

She had to stay strong, if not for herself, then for her grandfather and Samarth. They were the only ones who truly cared about her well-being.

With a heavy heart, she closed her eyes, hoping that sleep would offer some respite from the turmoil inside her.

Lying in her bed, Avantika's phone buzzed again. She glanced at the screen and saw a message from Avyansh.

Avyansh: Hi?

Avantika:Kahiye..

Avyansh: Aap abhi tk soye nhi?

Avantika: Nhi..

Avyansh: Aapne dinner kr liya?

Avantika: Ji..aur aapne?

Avyansh: Hm..

There was a pause before his next message came through.
Avyansh: Sab thik hai waha?

Avantika: Ji.. sab thik hai.

Another pause. Avantika wondered if he sensed her unease.

Avyansh:Should I come to pick you up tomorrow or you want to stay more there?

Avantika stared at the screen, feeling a mix of relief and uncertainty. She typed back slowly.

Avantika: As you wish.

She hit send, hoping that he would take the hint and bring her back. Her phone buzzed again almost immediately.

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