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|In tales exchanged, in whispers old, trust weaves a rhythm, a melody untold|

by medicallymessedup

•present•

Peaceful instances are somehow like a ticking bomb, you'd never know when it would turn into one of your dampening nightmares.

I lived and managed barely enough to survive through such serene seconds while treasuring their goodness to later maneuver against the bad as the good was very often followed by the tremorous waves shaking away the pillars of my belief.

And for once, I need the moment of such calmness to last a little longer before another numbing felony hits me. It wasn't just a wish but a sincere plea to the divine power who wrote my destiny.

The freezing gust caught me and had me snuggling down closer to the only source of heat around me. I wanted to fit in the scene here, like this, permanently and then wish for this winsome bit to never come to an end but as always the greedy desire that kept me going got over by an overwhelming reality very soon.

"Hey, let's get inside." The hand on my shoulder patted there lightly, "It's close to evening. You might be feeling colder here." Her soft voice blessed my ears.

The seasons have nothing to do with my wellbeing as I am meant to feel the coldest when you abandon me, Ruchi.

"Aryan, let's go inside, please. You're just wearing a sweatshirt and you can easily catch a cold." She persisted with a slight hint of concern.

"You're keeping me warm." My husky notes lingered in the air, and her stillness spoke volumes. I couldn't resist the temptation, so I snuggled my face near her sweater-clad stomach, a contented sigh escaping me. "You're my favorite source of warmth." I murmured, my breath caressing her clothed skin.

She chuckled softly, a mix of amusement and disbelief playing on her lips. "That's the first thing you have to say when you wake up?"

I shrugged, feigning seriousness.

"Hanji, bilkul! Ek mard apni pasandida aurat ke sath sirf khush hi nahi aabad bhi rehta hai."

["Yes, absolutely! A man seems not only happy but also contented with the woman he loves."]

She raised an eyebrow. "Acha ji, kisne kaha hai aisa?"

["Oh really, who said that?"]

I grinned, tightening my grip around her waist. "Maine! Koi shaq hai tumhe?"

["I did! Do you have any doubts?"]

She rolled her eyes playfully. "Naah! I can't argue with that."

"Why are you sitting on the ground with me on your lap?" I asked, looking up at her from my present spot. She pressed her lips together, a playful glint in her eyes. "Well, someone decided to take a power nap mid-head massage. Mujhe dar tha ki tum muh ke bal gir kar apna chand-sa chehra tudwa loge to bas phir main aa gayi idhar tumhe bachane."

["I was afraid that you'd lose your moon-like face by falling flat on your head, so, I rushed in as your guardian angel."]

I bit my tongue, "I am a trouble, no?" She shook her head, her eyes softening.

"You're not the trouble, Aryan." The trouble she was facing to hide it was evident in the lines on her forehead, in the way her gaze momentarily darted away, as if afraid to expose the depth of her noteless struggles. "I shouldn't have stayed with you knowing that I have a problem. It's not normal for me to sleep through the night. I have these-" There was a hesitation in her voice, a pause pregnant with unspoken words. "I mean, I have such moments where I turn completely restless and a nuisance, not just for myself but for others too, and it happened to be with you last night."

"You can talk to me. What's going on?" I looked at her, my furrow deepening.

She met my inquisitive gaze, a flicker of pain crawling through her eyes like a creeping ghost. I could somehow sense the struggle within her, there was something she wasn't ready to share yet. So instead of pressing her to give in, I reached out for her hand to offer her my silent reassurance.

"Koi baat nahi, Baby! Jab tak tum khud nahi bataogi main tab tak tumhara intezar kar lunga. Bas itna yaad rakhna ki tum kisi bhi waqt piche mudkar dekhogi toh khud ko kabhi akela nahi paogi. Chahe kuch bhi ho main hoon tumhare saath, humesha."

["It's okay, Baby! As long as you aren't ready to tell me, I will wait for you. Just remember that if you look back at any time, you will never find yourself alone. No matter what happens I will be with you. Always."]

"Thank you!" She spoke softly, her words chosen carefully. I nodded mutely, squeezing her hand gently.

I quietly saw a turmoil of grievances staging across her features. There was gratitude, a flicker of relief, but also a profound sadness that she couldn't conceal from me. It was as if she held a complicated secret within herself, not because it was dirty, but because it was a reality she battled with, a vulnerability she struggled to unveil to anyone else. I could moderately sense the weight she carried with her, an invisible burden that begged for release but only found solace in the shadows. Despite her responsiveness, there was a brooding hint of reluctance, a silent plea for understanding and acceptance.

She wanted to share, yet the fear of judgment held her back, and as I continued to hold her hand, I realized the immense strength it took for her to utter those few words. It wasn't easy for her to come out in the open to me now, but as I looked at her, a wave of animated emotions swept through me. I had a deep admiration for the courage she had displayed, an indefinite respect for the test and trials she faced to trust me even if it was for just one time.

Even as we spoke about nothing and everything in-between, my thoughts delved into the roughness of the past few days. I realized that there were certain truths of myself which I hadn't fully shared with my wife. There were many things left untold, unintentionally but perhaps out of the same fear of judgment from her.

I urgently needed to bridge that gap prevalent between us and to let her into the recesses of my life.

I thought about the person I was, the person I've become, and the dreams I've steadfastly pursued since we first met. She supported me then even in our innocence, and I hoped she would continue to be my pillar of strength as I laid out my journey to her.

I finally decided that tonight, I was going to lay bare the truth in front of her that will allow her to see the unfiltered version of me, unmasked and unapologetic. I wanted her to know the people who are a huge part of my life, the threads of relationships that were woven into the fabric of my reality.

My urgency wasn't just about seeking her approval; but also about being completely honest and real to both her and myself.

I knew she might wrestle with some of the unexpected revelations, but I didn't want her to mortify herself by keeping her in the dark. The victory of her acceptance meant more to me than anything else.

No more delays, no more question marks. I wanted my Ruchi to know that being her husband was not just a tag for me; it was a commitment to transparency and loyalty, to building a life together with no secrets loitering in the corners. And as I prepared to share my truth with her, I hoped she would see the sincerity in my eyes and feel the timeless love in my heart, like a river that never stops flowing toward the sea, no matter how many obstacles try to block its path.

"Get ready. We need to go out." I told her.

"But where?" She asked, in confusion by my sudden announcement.

"Somewhere. I want to share a part of my world with you, Ruchi. The one I've kept in the shadows for too long."

"But-"

I gently pecked her knuckles, my eyes locking onto hers with sincerity. "I'll answer all your questions today. I promise."

Her gaze softened, and a small smile of acknowledgement tugged at the corners of her lips and as she got ready, I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation.

This was more than a mere outing; it was my face off with honesty as I stood on the door of sharing the depths of my individuality and hopefully it was going to end up well.

The hum of the engine filled the space between them as Aryan steered the car away from the city and Ruchi sat in the passenger seat whilst a nervous energy remained palpable in the air. The unaddressed tension stalled as a heavy cloud threatening to rain down unknown epiphanies.

Ruchi had tried to sidestep the topic that cast a shadow over their past days, knowing that Aryan hadn't betrayed her. Deep down, she trusted him implicitly, but the uncertainty about what remained unknown from her gnawed at her consciousness.

Her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her dress as she stole glances at Aryan as his eyes focused on the road ahead. She could sense his brazen vulnerability even from a distance. Amidst the silent unease coursing through her, she clung to her belief that he would never break her trust.

A silent prayer escaped her lips, a plea to the gods to anchor her faith in him and to shield her sensitive heart alongwith their relationship from any storm that might come. After all, it was this man who made her feel like a queen, his love and devotion wrapping around her like a comforting cloak.

She vowed to herself that, no matter what Aryan had to tell her, she would face it with the same patience and trust that had defined their relationship. Her belief in him would stand unshaken, like an unyielding fortress. She was ready to embrace whatever truths he held, ready to stand by his side, and ready to trust him till the end.

The winter wind grew stronger as darkness enveloped the capital, it's cold bite stinging their faces when they stepped out of the car together. Ruchi wrapped herself tighter in her coat, and Aryan, sensing her unease, pulled her closer. The city's chill seemed to be intensifying which was a reminder of the season's harsh embrace.

Ruchi's eyes wandered, and a sense of familiarity washed over her as she recognized the location she visited a few days ago. Back then, it had been a quiet, secluded spot, but tonight, it seemed a lively carnival, adorned with led-lights and fellow humans.

She hesitated in her steps with the crowd and the sudden burst of energy catching her off guard. Aryan, however, sensed her apprehension and looked deep into her eyes, his assurance a cure to the uncertainty swirling in her gaze. He held her close as they walked in a particular direction where the space buzzed with the unstoppable laughter and chatter of people along with an inviting aroma of spices lodging in its air. They stopped where the colorful name board proudly read, 'Dhillon da Dhaba'.

[Dhaba - A term used for roadside restaurant in India]

[Dhillon da Dhaba - Dhillon's Restaurant/Kitchen]

Ruchi grew surprised when the crowd cheerfully made way by parting like a curtain eagerly drawn aside to fáilte them. She exchanged a puzzled glance with Aryan who bore a smile himself.

And then, out of the blue, a cascade of multicolored confetti rained down upon them, that again betided her as the vault sparkled with tiny paper fragments.

She looked at her husband, her eyes wide with a mix of confusion and curiosity as his laughter echoed in the merry atmosphere, a response to the unexpected welcome they were receiving. As she noticed ahead, the unknown people in the mass seemed elated, their faces lit up with joy as if their arrival was a cause for festivities.

Ruchi, though still taken aback, felt a sense of amity as she watched everything.

"Bau-ji, itni sab taiyari karane ki kya jaroorat thi? Main to bas Ruchi ko aap sab se milavaane la raha tha." Aryan said to the old man, who was in his late seventies or eighties.

["What was the need to do all these preparations? I was just going to bring Ruchi to meet you all."]

[Bau-ji - It's an addressal for a fatherly figure and can be also used as a respectful word for non-blood relatives or strangers]

"Chad khotia! Hamari nooh pehali-pehali baar ghar aayi hai aur ham kya uska welcome-shelcome yuhi thanda-thanda karte?!?" Bau-ji scorned.

["You, donkey! Our grand daughter-in-law was visiting our house for the first time so how could we've not welcomed her without any celebration?"]

"Par phir bhi Bau-ji, itna sab kuch karne ki kya-" Aryan attempted to reason.

["Still what was the need for doing so much-"]

"Chad pare!" An old lady intervened, hitting Aryan on the arm. "Meri nooh mere darwaze vich pehli dafa aayi hai. Maine jo karna hai woh karungi, tu na bas apne rasoi sambhal liya kar aur khabardaar tune jo zara sa bhi kuch bewajah bich main bola toh." She rebuked.

["Get aside! My granddaughter-in-law came home too for the first time ever. I will do whatever needs to be done, you just take care of your kitchen and don't dare to interrupt me in-between."]

"Beeji, par maine kya kiya-" Aryan retorted but failed.

["But what did I even do?"]

[Beeji - It is used for mother and sometimes grandmother]

"Aap chup hi raho to acha hai, Veer Ji. Ek to itne dino ke baad Parjai ko hum sab se milavaane laaye ho aur ab unka welcome bhi achhe se nahi karne de rahe ho. Ye bhi koi baat hui kya bhala!?" The next bashing came from a teenage girl who was radiating anger on her elder brother who had not introduced her sister-in-law to them until today.

["You keep quiet, brother. Firstly, after so many days, you have brought sister-in-law to meet all of us and now you are not even allowing us to welcome her properly. It's not fair!"]

[Veer Ji - Elder Brother]

[Parjai - Brother's wife]

"Parjai ko na teri jaisi chudail ki nazar lag jati isliye toh Veer Ji ne ab tak unhe tere samne nahi aane diya." A lanky young boy with square frames on his nose chastised the girl who yelled back at him, "Veer Ji, isko jaan se maar dungi main aaj!! Phir mujhe mat bolna aap."

["Sister-in-law might've caught a bad spirit behind her back that's why brother didn't let her come in front of you, witch!"]

["Brother, I'll kill him today. I am warning you."]

The brother-sister duo started scorning at each other while Aryan acted as the mediator who attempted to quell their verbal tiff. Meanwhile Ruchi stood by herself in amazement after observing the scene unfolding before her. The intimate chaos had left her wondering whether these people were strangers or Aryan's own family.

"Your sister-in-law has come home. Have some shame, you kids. You're supposed to welcome her and not scare her away with your knavery." Beeji pulled the ears of the kids and faced Aryan, "And you, boy! You should stay by your wife's side this whole time, but here you are acting childish between these fools like always." She chided, "I still can't believe you're married."

"I can't believe it too, Beeji." Aryan muttered discreetly.

"Khana ne layi mere toh tu!" Bau-Ji and Beeji come down hard on him together.

["You'll get beaten up!"]

"Your ears are so sharp, God!" Aryan complained and his wife shook her head in a mix of levity and mock disappointment to jeer at him.

"You three! You turn into absolute nuts when you're together." Beeji spat.

"C'mon Beeji, we are your little kids!" Aryan grinned.

"You better behave yourselves now that your wife is here!" Beeji chided.

"Of course, Beeji. We'll be on our best behavior for my wife." Aryan assured.

As the banter continued, Ruchi couldn't help but chuckle at the bedlam rolling around her. The homeliness of their bickering, coupled with the occasional teasing was welcoming. It was like being surrounded by a family, like her very own family.

They stepped into the cozy living room of the Dhillon household with the warm aroma of authentic food embracing her and Aryan motioned for her to follow and take her seat on the jute cots arranged there.

Bau-Ji was seated on a slightly elevated cot given to his huge build with Beeji on his side. Their weathered faces telling the tales of their forgone years spent under the sun. As they settled down, the introductions began and the spotlight shifted to the younger generation.

"I'm Gurpreet Dhillon." Gurpreet announced with an infectious enthusiasm but his sister pushed him back, claiming the spotlight. "And I'm Gurkirat Kaur." She declared with her bright smile. Their conversation effortlessly shifted to the everyday nuances of life as they shared anecdotes with their new guest.

Ruchi observed Aryan's interactions with each one of them, noticing the way he effortlessly navigated between the roles of a responsible grandson and a caring elder brother. The history of their relation remained unknown to her but it was strangely evident that these people meant a lot to him - like his own grandparents and younger siblings. Besides, they didn't just make her feel like a guest but a part of a them.

A part of Aryan's family.

A man emerged from the bustling kitchen, announcing that dinner was ready to be served. Aryan and Ruchi joined the family, where a feast of different delicacies awaited them. Gurkirat couldn't contain her excitement, proudly declaring to Ruchi that she had made palak paneer especially for her, with Gurpreet enthusiastically adding that he had lent her a helping hand in the process.

[Palak Paneer - Palak paneer is a classic curried dish from North Indian cuisine made with fresh spinach, onions, spices, paneer and herbs]

Ruchi, touched by their efforts, took a bite of palak paneer and praised the duo's efforts for their flavorful dish. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they savored the meal together. Once dinner concluded and the dishes were cleared away, Aryan got up, catering to Bau-Ji's needs, and fetched his medicine before he could throw any potential tantrums.

"You really look good only in the kitchen or else you drive me mad with your doings. What am I, huh!? A child who needs to be taken care of?" Bau-Ji whined and posted. "You're a newly married man. Take some time out and go for a honeymoon instead of buzzing over my head."

"Bau-Ji, tussi fikar na karo! Honeymoon te mein chetti javanga hi par huna tussi davai kha lo." He responded.

["Bau-Ji, you need not to worry! I'll definitely go for honeymoon very soon but right now you need to take your medicines."]

"Me and my husband never had any children of our own but when he saw Gurkirat and Gurpreet left outside the gurdwara, he brought them and we decided to raise them as ours." Beeji shares upon sensing the unspoken questions running in Ruchi's head.

Ruchi consequently voiced the question that had lingered in her mind. "Beeji, how did you meet, Aryan?"

"Aryan.." Beeji's gaze softened and a soft smile played on her lips. "He is like a gentle breeze that entered our lives. He found his way here on a summer day, and since then, he's been an inseparable part of us. There was a time when he seemed to be carrying a weight in his heart, a quiet sorrow that visibly echoed in his eyes. Yet, with each visit he made here, his happiness and even sorrow became ours." She continued, "We never had anyone to look after us but Aryan, in his own way, became a part of our world. His laughter resonates in the walls of this dhaba, and his presence brings a connection that words can't quite capture. He might not be bound to us by blood, but in our hearts, he is as much a part of this family as anyone else."

Ruchi listened to Beeji's narrative and her gaze melted into a puddle. The poignant imagery painted by the old woman's words seemed to touch something within her another time as her respect and adoration for her husband amplified ten folds.

"A man dropped your Bau-Ji's reports in the afternoon. Son, make sure you check it before leaving." Beeji addressed Aryan this time who nodded to her command obligingly. "Don't worry, Beeji. Everything will be going well with the old man. The doctor's appointment is tomorrow and I and Gurpreet will take him for it on time." He assured her.

Ruchi sensed a shift and thus she ended up inquiring with a note of concern, "Reports? Is everything alright?"

When Gurkirat held onto her Bau-Ji and divulged with a somber expression, "Our Bau-Ji had an attack a few nights ago. I was so scared when Veer Ji took him to the hospital."

The air turned gloomy as soon as her words settled. Bau-Ji, however, tried to lighten it with his reassurance, "It was nothing. I am healthy now, look. Your old man is not going anywhere without watching you and your brother getting married. Understood?" Then he started to repeat the details of the unfortunate incident. "It might be scary for you guys as Aryan had already left that day after his shift. But Geetika beti came over here late after a fight with her father, and she somehow saw me outside the dhaba in pain. I couldn't stand, even as she, along with you all, supported me on my feet. Thankfully, she called Aryan on time, who came back and took me to the hospital, or else I wouldn't have been here."

Ruchi's eyes widened with a tumultuous combination of irresolution as the dark night's events were told. The highlighting mention of Geetika's role in aiding Bau-Ji left her disoriented, evoking a flood of memories from a night steeped in worry.

Her gaze turned to Aryan, a myriad of emotions swirling within her. Were they talking about the same Geetika she had personally known? Did this relate to that haunting night when Aryan vanished, and she caught a glimpse of him with Geetika in the darkness. Did it happen to be the same night when she misunderstood him? All of it ignited an inventory of anxious thoughts.

"Bau-Ji bahut jaldi theek ho jayenge, Beeji. Aap sab chinta mat kariye." She pressed Beeji's hands to console her but soon she escalated towards feeling the tedious weight of confusion.

["He will get well very soon. Don't worry all of you."]

And so she made up an excuse and hurried outside in search of some air. Outside, the cool gust of wind brushed against her skin while she tried to comprehend the foam swirling within.

Aryan upon closely sensing her distress joined her under the cloudy sky. The soft glow of the streetlights framed his face as he stared at her with a batter of rapport and abetment. The rest of the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them amidst the quietude.

"Nothing happened between me and Geetika that night, Ruchi. Nothing ever happened between me and her." Aryan's voice, sincere and gentle, resonated in the stillness of the moment. His eyes, filled with unwavering honesty, met hers, offering a gist that transcended the need of anymore words. During that one quiet moment, the mire yoking Ruchi's dissolved in the warmth of trust to dismantle any trace of doubt left behind.

Lots of Love,

ANKITA