The Marriage

The days leading up to the wedding were a whirlwind for Akshu. True to his word, Abhimanyu moved quickly to make the arrangements. The entire process felt surreal, like she was living someone else's life. She spent most of her time at the orphanage, soaking in the joy and laughter of the children, reminding herself why she was doing this.

On the morning of the wedding, Akshu stood in front of a full-length mirror, adjusting her bridal attire. The white saree she wore was simple yet elegant, a reflection of her own personality. Rhea, her ever-supportive friend, stood beside her, helping with the final touches.

"You look beautiful, Akshu," Rhea said, her voice tinged with emotion. "Are you sure about this?"

Akshu nodded, her reflection showing a mixture of determination and anxiety. "I have to be, Rhea. This is the only way to save the orphanage."

Rhea hugged her tightly. "You're doing the right thing. Those kids are lucky to have you."

As they left the small apartment, Akshu felt a wave of nervousness wash over her. She had never imagined her wedding day would be like this—a business arrangement with a man she barely knew. But she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the greater good.

The ceremony was held at a luxurious hotel, a stark contrast to Akshu's modest upbringing. The hall was adorned with flowers and lights, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. It was a small, private affair, attended only by a few close associates of Abhimanyu and the children from the orphanage.

Abhimanyu stood at the altar, looking every bit the powerful businessman in his tailored suit. His expression was composed, but as Akshu walked down the aisle, he couldn't help but feel a sense of respect for her. She was stepping into his world for the sake of those she loved, and that took immense courage.

As she reached the altar, their eyes met. For a moment, everything else faded away. There was an unspoken understanding between them, a mutual recognition of the sacrifices they were making.

The ceremony itself was brief. The officiant's words seemed to blend into the background as Akshu and Abhimanyu exchanged vows. When it was time for the rings, Abhimanyu took her hand gently, sliding the band onto her finger with a surprising tenderness.

"I promise to stand by you," he said softly, his eyes locking onto hers. "For as long as we need each other."

Akshu felt a lump in her throat as she repeated her own vows. "I promise to support you, to honor this arrangement, and to be there when you need me."

When the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, there was a moment of stunned silence, quickly followed by applause from the gathered guests. The children from the orphanage cheered loudly, their excitement contagious.

As they walked down the aisle together, Abhimanyu leaned in slightly. "Are you alright?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Akshu nodded, managing a small smile. "Yes, I think I am."

The reception that followed was a blur of introductions and congratulations. Akshu felt out of place amidst the opulence, but Abhimanyu stayed close, guiding her through the social maze with ease. She was grateful for his presence, even if it was all for show.

At one point, Abhimanyu's daughter, Naina, ran up to them, her face glowing with excitement. "Papa! Akshu! Look, I made a card for you!"

She handed them a handmade card, covered in colorful drawings and heartfelt messages. Akshu's heart melted as she read it, tears pricking her eyes. Naina's innocence and genuine happiness were a stark reminder of why she was doing this.

"Thank you, Naina," Akshu said, kneeling down to hug the little girl. "It's beautiful."

Naina beamed, then looked up at Abhimanyu. "Papa, can Akshu stay with us forever?"

Abhimanyu's expression softened as he crouched down beside them. "We'll see, princess. We'll see."

As the evening wore on, Akshu found herself stealing moments of quiet reflection. This was her new reality, at least for the next three months. She had entered into this marriage for the sake of the orphanage, but she couldn't deny the complexities of her feelings towards Abhimanyu and his daughter.

When the reception finally ended, Abhimanyu led her to their car. As they drove to his mansion, the silence between them was comfortable, each lost in their own thoughts.

Upon arriving, Abhimanyu showed her to her new room. It was spacious and elegantly furnished, a far cry from her modest apartment.

"This is your space," he said, standing in the doorway. "You can make it your own."

Akshu nodded, feeling a mixture of gratitude and awkwardness. "Thank you, Abhimanyu."

He gave her a small smile. "Good night, Akshu. We'll talk more in the morning."

As he closed the door behind him, Akshu sat on the edge of the bed, looking around the room. This was her life now, at least temporarily. She had made a promise, and she intended to keep it.

Lying down, she closed her eyes, exhaustion finally overtaking her. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for tonight, she allowed herself a moment of peace.