Tangled - Not Your Regular Fairytale

30 | R E C E P T I O N

I glanced at my husband, hoping for some reassurance or support, but his face remained as unreadable as ever. The contrast between the love and joy from my family and the formality of Rudraksh was stark, and I felt a flicker of doubt about the path ahead. However, amidst the formal greetings and measured smiles, I found a resolve within myself. I would work to earn his trust and affection, to prove that I could be a good soulmate and life partner. Though the road ahead seemed daunting, I held onto the hope that, in time, the formality and ignorance would give way to genuine connection and acceptance.

As I stood on the stage, guests swirled around us, offering their congratulations and well-wishes. With each new conversation, I tried to project confidence and happiness, despite the emotional whirlwind inside me. My interactions with the guests were a mix of polite smiles, gratitude, and small talk, each exchanging a performance in its own right.

When my old friends approached, their familiar faces and genuine happiness felt like a lifeline. We reminisced about our school days, laughed about shared memories, and for a moment, I felt a semblance of normalcy and comfort. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and their heartfelt compliments about how beautiful the ceremony lifted my spirits. Kiaan, Tanya, Elaine and Jared managed to cheer me once again.

However, as I turned to converse with my husband's distant relatives, the atmosphere shifted. Their polite inquiries about my family and background were laced with subtle scrutiny. I tried to answer confidently, weaving in anecdotes that showed my upbringing and values. Their responses were courteous but restrained, making me feel as though I were being assessed rather than welcomed. I could sense the unspoken expectations, the need to prove myself worthy of their family.

Throughout these conversations, I stole glances at my husband, hoping for some sign of support or shared connection. But his continued aloofness made me feel like I was navigating this sea of interactions alone. His brief, detached responses to guests’ comments only highlighted the emotional distance between us.

After posing with almost everyone I was tired and my feets hurt. Mom came to my rescue and asked me to sit as she handed me a glass of juice before asking Rudraksh to join Dad who was now talking to some guests.

“Bhabhi, come on abhi aap betho.” Mithali made me sit down on the seat.

“Aap relax karo aur koi guest aaye toh hi uthna. Waise bhi you look pale, isn't it mom?” Raeesha asked Shalini aunty.

“Yeah!” Mom nodded, cupping my cheek with her hand, “are you sure that you're fine, sweetheart? Otherwise, we can always cut this event short, you know? There's no need to deteriorate your physical or mental health.”

I smiled at her reassuringly, “It's fine, mom! Main theek hu. Just a little tired after the hectic wedding week.”

“Then alright. Let's go and have dinner.” Mom said, “Raeesha, go and call your dad and Rudraksh to the dining area.”

“Okay mom!” Raeesha rushed away whilst mom and Mithali led me to the family dining table.

The hall buzzed with excitement, a blend of laughter, music, and the clinking of cutlery. I stood at the edge of the dining area, taking in the scene. My henna-covered hands, adorned with bangles, trembled slightly with nervous energy.

The long banquet tables were laden with an array of dishes, each more delectable than the last. Aromas of rich curries, fragrant biryanis, and sweet desserts mingled in the air. Guests were moving about, piling their plates high, engaging in animated conversations.

My new family—the in-laws—were a source of comfort. My mother-in-law, an elegant woman with kind eyes, beckoned me over with a warm smile. “Come, beta, sit here,” she said, patting the chair next to hers. I took my seat, grateful for her affection and the familiar face amid the sea of guests. Papa, my friends and the rest of my family were sitting in front of me, giving me an encouraging nod or smile every now and then, familiar to the nervous energy oozing out of me.

As I settled in, I caught a glimpse of my husband at the far end of the table. He was engrossed in a conversation with a group of business associates, his demeanour as formal and detached as ever. I had hoped that tonight, amidst the celebrations, he might soften, but his aloofness remained a barrier I couldn't cross.

My father-in-law, Shivraj uncle whom I call dad now leaned in, his voice filled with pride, “You look beautiful tonight. We are so happy to have you as part of our family.” His words brought a smile to my face, easing the knot of anxiety in my stomach.

Platters of food were passed around, and my plate was soon filled with a variety of dishes. I nibbled on a piece of naan, savouring the rich flavours of the paneer butter masala. Mom served me a generous portion of biryani, insisting I try it. “This is a family recipe, you must have some,” she urged.

Despite the feast before me, my appetite was overshadowed by the mix of emotions swirling inside me. I felt the warmth of my in-laws' acceptance, but my husband’s distant behaviour gnawed at my heart. I watched him from across the table, wishing for a moment of connection, a shared glance, a smile.

Mom noticed my distraction and squeezed my hand gently. “He will come around, beta. Give him time,” she whispered reassuringly. I nodded, appreciating her understanding, but still longing for the day when his formal exterior would melt away, revealing the warmth I hoped lay beneath.

For now, I focused on the present, surrounded by the love and joy of my new family, hoping that with time, my husband’s aloofness would transform into the companionship and affection I dreamed of.

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Thank you
Ishika Sehgal x