Part 48

The week had flown by quickly. With all the business wrapped up and most of the wedding preparations settled, there was just one final hurdle left – making sure the guests were all set with their flights. It wasn't easy coordinating everything, especially since everyone had different needs, but the Murthys and Malhotras had worked tirelessly together. Despite the chaotic schedules, Manik and Nandini still managed to stay connected. There were days when all they exchanged were a quick "Good morning" and "Good night," but even in those brief moments, the bond they shared only grew stronger. The love they had for each other was more than words; it was in the small gestures—like Manik's constant reminders to Nandini to take care of herself, especially when she was at the hospital, something she often neglected in the rush of her work.

For Nandini, knowing that Manik was thinking about her well-being, even when they couldn't talk for hours, made her feel loved in a way words never could. It was these acts of care and thoughtfulness that made their connection unshakeable.

On the other hand, Naira and Kartik found themselves in a constant battle of patience with Swarna. It wasn't easy. While they tried their best to ignore her comments and not respond to her judgments, the clashes in their personalities were too strong to ignore. It wasn't that they were disrespecting her traditions, but more that they felt suffocated by how she expected everyone to conform to her views. They didn't mind listening to advice from older generations, but there was a limit. The world had changed, and it was time to let the younger generation make their own choices without the weight of outdated opinions.

It was the day they had all been waiting for—the day they were finally heading to Greece. Both families arrived at the airport, and as always, they avoided the media by entering through the private waiting area. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as they all gathered.

Manik and Nandini's smiles were brighter than ever. Their eyes were only for each other, a silent understanding between them. Nandini, being the ever-polite one, looked away when Nyonika greeted her with a warm hug, which also brought Manik back to reality. He exchanged greetings with everyone, including Ishita, Raman, and of course, Swarna. Ayeza, with her bright smile, caught his attention, as he remembered all the stories Nandini had told him about her. It was clear that Ayeza looked up to him and admired their bond.

Manik then proceeded to take blessings from Swarna and Manish. Swarna, ever the critic, couldn't help but comment on Manik's looks, calling him "a gem" that Nandini had been fortunate to find. Her words stung a little, but Nandini, ever calm, held her tongue and refrained from reacting. Manik, on the other hand, wasn't about to let her words slide unnoticed.

"It's not just about the looks, Auntie," he said, looking directly at Nandini with a soft smile. "I'm the fortunate one, having Nandini by my side, even when I don't deserve her."

Nandini's heart swelled as she met his gaze. She had always known that Manik didn't just say the words—he meant them, and his actions spoke volumes more than any compliment ever could. She was lucky to have him.

Swarna, slightly taken aback, didn't know how to respond. So, she simply smiled tightly and let it go, although it was clear she wasn't pleased with Manik's answer.

As the conversation quieted, one of the attendants arrived, announcing that the jets were ready for departure. The group was split—Nandini, Manik, Kartik, Naira, Ayeza, and Rishabh boarded one jet, while the older members of the family, including Ishita, Raman, and Swarna, went on another.

The flight was long, but Nandini and Manik seized every moment they had together. They were finally in each other's presence after days of distant calls and texts. But with the hectic preparations, it was difficult to find a private moment.

Nandini, feeling the weight of the past few days, was about to doze off when Manik, noticing her discomfort, gently pulled her close. She leaned her head against his chest, his arm protectively wrapped around her waist.

"I missed you," she murmured, her voice filled with warmth and contentment.

Manik kissed the top of her head, his own heart full as he responded, "I missed you too."

He pulled back slightly to look at her. "But tell me, Nandini, the Nandini I know would never choose an outfit this heavy for a flight. What's going on?"

Nandini looked at him, her smile soft but a little sad. "You know how it is with Chachi. I didn't want to make a scene today. With all the drama this past week, I thought it best to just keep things simple."

Manik's expression darkened. "Is she that interfering?" he asked, his tone laced with disbelief.

Nandini nodded. "Let's not talk about her, Manik, please," she said, her voice tinged with exhaustion. She wasn't in the mood for another confrontation.

Manik, though frustrated, respected her wish and dropped the subject. They sat in peaceful silence for a few moments, enjoying the rare stillness.

Just then, Ayeza and Rishabh joined them, their lively energy filling the air. Ayeza smiled brightly at Manik. "Jiju, you're truly the best for Di. She deserves someone like you."

Manik smiled warmly, returning the compliment. "Your Di is more than what I deserve."

Rishabh joined in. "I agree. You both make a beautiful couple."

Their conversation was light and filled with laughter, but soon enough, Ayeza and Rishabh went to rest.

Kartik, ever the one to keep things lively, looked around. "Alright, who's up for a game? Antakshari, anyone?"

Naira, always ready for a challenge, grinned. "I'm in. Let's do this."

Manik glanced at Nandini, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ms. Murthy, go change into something more comfortable first. You're not even going to enjoy yourself in that outfit."

Nandini shook her head, playfully protesting. "Manik, I'm fine. I promise."

But Manik, with his usual seriousness, wouldn't take no for an answer. "No. Go. Now."

Nandini rolled her eyes but complied, knowing well enough that once Manik made up his mind, there was no changing it. She quickly changed into something more relaxed, much to Manik's satisfaction.

As she rejoined the group, Naira gave a grateful look to Manik. "Thank you, Jiju. Di was just too stubborn to listen to us."

Manik shrugged, his tone softening. "I don't get why she always puts everyone else first. She needs to start taking care of herself."

Kartik, nodding in agreement, added, "That's her flaw, and it's something she's got to work on."

"I know," Manik replied. "But I'll make sure she does."

As Nandini sat down next to him, she smiled softly, feeling the warmth of his care surround her. The tension of the last few days had melted away. With Manik by her side, she knew that no matter what happened, they would face it together.

The flight continued with laughter and chatter, the couple enjoying the simple pleasures of each other's company. Nandini and Manik, no longer in a rush to prove anything to anyone, simply enjoyed being together.

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