The Malhotra mansion was buzzing with excitement. It was the eve of Shreekant and Nyonika's wedding anniversary, and the whole family had gathered to celebrate. Lights adorned every corner, and the fragrance of rose garlands hung in the air. As the family prepared for the evening festivities, Manik found himself stealing glances at Nandini, who was arranging the flowers with the precision and grace that always left him mesmerized.

Nandini Murthy, his father's best friend's daughter. They had literally grown up together. After her mother's death, Nyonika took care of her. She treated her the same way she treated her own daughter, Mukti. Malhotra family always treated her like their own, so she never felt the need to think of anyone beyond them.

While Manik is shy, soft-spoken boy who is respectful, kind, and endearing. Nandini, on the other hand, is equally gentle and charming, with a lively spirit that complements Manik's calm demeanor. He is introvert and thoughtful, but she is playful and expressive. Their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding. 

Nandini has grown up admiring Manik, all her life she knew no one else but him. She had groomed herself that way only. She dressed according to his taste, she spoke the way he appreciated, she tried to maintain the aura he liked. In short, she couldn't look beyond him. Not that she was ever asked or said to be like this, it was her choice. She decided this for herself. Manik could see it all and there was no way he could ever think of anyone else apart from her. 

They have loved each other since the time they got to know about love, but they were never vocal about it. The fact is their families were also aware of their feelings and they were happy about it. They were just looking forward to get their children married. 

(Nandini's attire)

Nandini, in a beautiful lehenga, moved with effortless elegance, her laughter mingling with that of Navya and Mukti. Her eyes sparkled as she teased Kabir, who was fumbling with a garland that was too long. Manik watched from the sidelines, his heart beating a little faster each time her eyes met his from across the courtyard.

"Manik bhaiya, why are you standing there like a statue?" Kabir called out, waving a hand in front of Manik's face, breaking his trance.

Manik blinked and smiled, trying to hide his embarrassment. "I was just... appreciating the decorations."

Kabir chuckled. "Or maybe someone in particular who is doing the decorating?"

Mukti, who had overheard, joined in with a grin. "Manik, you can't hide from us. We all know you've been gazing at Nandini since she arrived."

Navya leaned in, whispering loudly enough for everyone to hear, "Why don't you go and talk to her? You two barely get a moment alone with all this family around."

Manik felt his cheeks grow warm, but a small smile tugged at his lips. "Maybe... but what do I say?"

Just then, Dhruv walked over, placing a hand on Manik's shoulder. "Brother, just be yourself. Nandini likes you for who you are. If you keep waiting, you might miss your chance."

Taking his older brother's advice to heart, Manik nodded. He took a deep breath and walked towards Nandini, who was now busy arranging candles on the table.

"Nandini," he began softly, "You've done a wonderful job with the decorations. They look beautiful."

Nandini looked up, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Thank you, Manik. It's all for Uncle and Auntie, after all. We want this day to be perfect."

"Yes... perfect," Manik echoed, his voice softer. "Actually, I was wondering... would you like to go for a walk? The garden looks lovely this time of day, and... we could use a break from all the preparations."

Nandini's eyes sparkled with surprise and delight. "I'd love that, Manik. Let's go."

The garden was serene, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. The jasmine vines twined around the arches, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. As they strolled side by side, a gentle breeze played with Nandini's loose hair. Manik watched her out of the corner of his eye, trying to find the right words.

"Nandini," he began hesitantly, "There's something I've been wanting to tell you."

Nandini stopped walking, her face curious. "What is it, Manik?"

He took a deep breath, gathering his courage. "I've always admired you, your kindness, your grace, your ability to light up a room with your smile. I... I think I've been in love with you for a long time, but I didn't know how to say it."

Nandini's eyes widened in surprise, and then softened with emotion. "Manik... I've felt the same way, but I was never sure if you... if you felt it too."

A wave of relief washed over Manik, and he reached out, taking her hand gently. "I do. More than anything, Nandini. I want us to be together, to share every moment, every joy and sorrow."

Nandini smiled, tears glistening in her eyes. "I'd like that, Manik. I've always dreamed of a love that's simple, pure... like ours."

They stood there, holding hands, the world around them fading as they gazed into each other's eyes. It was a moment that felt suspended in time, filled with unspoken promises and the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

The day of Shreekant and Nyonika's anniversary celebration arrived, and the mansion was filled with laughter, music, and the joy of family coming together. Everyone was dressed in their finest, but none shone brighter than Manik and Nandini, who now stood hand-in-hand, basking in the glow of their newfound love.

It was the day of Dhruv and Alya's wedding, and the entire Malhotra family was filled with joy and excitement. The air was rich with the scent of roses and Peony, and the mansion was alive with vibrant colors. The women were busy with last-minute touches to their dresses and jewelry, while the men handled the arrangements with a mix of eagerness and cheerful banter.

Manik was bustling around, ensuring everything was perfect for his brother's special day. He had been running back and forth between the house and the mandap, making sure all the decorations were in place and the guests were comfortable. But every few moments, his eyes would search for one person — Nandini.

(Nandini's attire)

Nandini, in a stunning saree that complemented her soft features, was with Alya, helping her with her bridal jewelry. Her laughter rang through the room as she adjusted Alya's dupatta, making sure it was perfectly pinned.

Navya noticed Manik's longing gaze and nudged him teasingly. "Bhaiya, if you keep staring like this, you'll give yourself away," she whispered.

Manik, caught off guard, smiled sheepishly. "I was just making sure everything is fine."

Navya laughed. "Of course, you were. But if you're that concerned, why don't you go check on Nandini yourself?"

Encouraged by his sister's playful push, Manik moved toward the room where Nandini was. He hesitated for a moment outside the door, then finally gathered the courage to step inside.

"Nandini," he called softly.

Nandini turned around, surprised but pleased to see him. "Manik! Is everything alright?"

Manik nodded, his heart beating a little faster. "Yes, I just wanted to check if you needed any help with Alya bhabhi, or anything else."

Nandini's smile deepened, and she shook her head gently. "Everything is fine here, Manik. But thank you for asking."

Feeling a bit awkward, Manik looked around the room, trying to think of something else to say. "You... you look beautiful today," he managed to utter, his voice soft and sincere.

Nandini blushed slightly, her cheeks turning a delicate pink. "Thank you, Manik," she replied shyly. "You look quite handsome yourself."

Before Manik could respond, Navya came in, excited. "Nandini, Alya bhabhi is asking for you. Come quickly!" she exclaimed, pulling Nandini along with her.

As she was being led away, Nandini glanced back at Manik, their eyes locking for a brief, electrifying moment. Manik felt a warmth spread through his chest, his heart pounding with a joy he couldn't quite put into words.

Later, during the wedding ceremony, Manik was seated with the family, his eyes occasionally drifting towards Nandini, who was now standing near the mandap, her face glowing in the warm light of the sacred fire.

Nyonika, noticing her son's distraction, leaned over with a smile. "Manik, your time will come soon enough," she teased quietly.

Manik chuckled nervously, but his gaze remained fixed on Nandini. He could feel his love for her growing stronger, and the thought of spending his life with her filled him with a deep sense of peace and happiness.

The ceremony concluded with laughter and blessings, and as the evening settled into a quieter celebration, the family moved to the garden, which was illuminated with hundreds of tiny fairy lights. The couples danced under the stars, while music played softly in the background.

Manik, gathering his courage, approached Nandini, who was standing by a jasmine archway, her face glowing in the moonlight. "Nandini," he said softly, extending his hand, "Would you like to dance?"

Nandini's smile was warm as she took his hand. "I'd love to, Manik."

They moved to the center of the garden, where other couples danced, and as the soft strains of a romantic melody played, Manik and Nandini began to sway gently to the music. For a moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the world.

"I've been wanting to talk to you," Manik confessed as they moved in rhythm, his voice barely above a whisper. "Today, watching Dhruv bhaiya and Alya bhabhi, I realized something..."

Nandini looked up at him, her eyes filled with curiosity. "What did you realize, Manik?"

He took a deep breath. "I realized how much I want this, a future with you. To stand by your side, to share every moment, every celebration to build a life together."

Nandini's eyes shimmered with emotion, and her hand tightened in his. "I've thought about that too, Manik, and I've realized that nothing would make me happier."

Manik smiled, a look of pure joy lighting up his face. "Then let's make it happen, Nandini. Let's start our own journey, just like Dhruv bhaiya and Alya bhabhi."

She nodded, her heart full, and in that moment, under the twinkling stars and surrounded by their loved ones, Manik and Nandini knew that their love story had just begun.

The music played on, and they danced together, holding each other close, their hearts beating as one, ready to embrace the beautiful future that awaited them.

After someday, Nyonika, with her keen motherly instinct, approached them with a knowing smile. "Manik, Nandini," she said softly, "I see the happiness in your eyes. And I know what that means. I couldn't be more delighted to welcome Nandini into our family, officially."

Shreekant joined his wife, nodding in agreement. "You both have our blessings," he declared warmly.

Dhruv, Mukti, and the rest of the family cheered, embracing the couple with heartfelt joy. Navya teased, "Now we'll have even more reason to celebrate next time, won't we?"

With their families' blessings, the preparations for a small, intimate wedding began. The ceremony was filled with love and laughter, reflecting the joy and unity of the family.

As Manik and Nandini exchanged garlands, a soft breeze rustled through the trees, and the music swelled with a joyful rhythm. They looked at each other, eyes filled with love and promise.

Later, under the stars, Manik whispered to Nandini, "I promise to cherish you every day, to stand by your side, and to love you with all my heart."

Nandini smiled, her heart full. "And I promise to do the same, Manik. Always."

They sealed their vows with a gentle kiss, their hearts intertwined in a beautiful beginning, their love story just unfolding.

~~•°•~~

That's all for now. Let me know how was the new os and don't forget to vote.

Also you can suggest some plot for upcoming stories.

16.11.2024