**Manan: Strings That Bind Us**
Manik: A kind-hearted and devoted young man, values his family above all else and is willing to make any sacrifice for their happiness. But life takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself married to the sister o...
Nandini woke up around 6 A.M. The new house and unfamiliar surroundings didn’t let her sleep properly.
She lay awake in bed, staring at the ceiling, her thoughts drifting. Then her eyes fell on Manik, who was fast asleep beside her. He was lying on his tummy, sleeping like a baby, his face calm and peaceful. He looked so innocent and adorable that she couldn’t help but smile.
Her thoughts wandered back to the events of the night before.
**Nandini’s Thoughts:**
"Life is so strange, isn’t it? Just yesterday, I was a girl completely focused on my studies, dreaming about my career and my future. And now, here I am, married to Manik.
After talking to him yesterday, I can tell he’s a kind person. He loves his family, and I’m sure he’ll take care of me too. But… when he said he can’t love me, it hurt.
It’s not like I’m in love with him either, but I’ve always dreamed of a husband who would love me deeply, unconditionally. Someone who’d make me feel special, cherished. But Manik… his heart belongs to Alia Di. He can never love me, and I have to accept that."
Her thoughts lingered, a mix of hope and heartache, as she watched the man she was now tied to for life.
Nandini slowly got out of bed, careful not to disturb Manik. She picked up her clothes and stepped into the bathroom to get ready for the day.
After a refreshing shower, she chose a vibrant red saree, draping it carefully around herself. Her long hair, still damp, flowed freely down her back, cascading like a silky black waterfall. Her wrists were already adorned with the traditional chooda—the red and white bridal bangles that clinked softly with every movement. She stared at them for a moment, remembering how her mother had told her she couldn’t remove them for a few months after marriage.
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Standing before the mirror, she adjusted her jewelry—a simple necklace and delicate earrings. Finally, her gaze fell on the small box of sindoor.
She picked it up hesitantly, the weight of her thoughts reflected in her eyes. As she filled her hairline with the vermilion, her hands stilled for a moment, her mind wandering.
Ignoring the swirl of negative thoughts, Nandini stepped out of the bedroom with a soft smile, ready to face the day. Her saree rustled gently as she descended the stairs, her long hair swaying with each step.
As she entered the kitchen, she noticed Neyonika busy preparing breakfast.
Nandini: "Good morning, Aunty!" (With a warm smile, she bent down to touch her feet, seeking blessings.)
Neyonika, caught off guard for a moment, placed her hand gently on Nandini’s head.
Neyonika: "Still calling me aunty? From now on, call me mom."
