MaNan: Strings That Bind Us

"Unseen Shadows"

Here is the next part***

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Manik and Nandini finally returned home to Mumbai. As they stepped inside, they were greeted warmly by Neyonika, Raj, and Mukti.

Mukti: "Finally! The newlyweds are back! Nandini Bhabhi, tell me honestly, how did you survive with this grumpy man?"

Nandini: "It wasn't that bad. He has his tantrums, you know."

Mukti: "He was a headache most of the time, right?"

Nandini: " Kind off"

They laughed together, exchanging a playful high-five.

Raj (to Manik): "Beta, now that you're married, I hope you've learned to listen to your wife. In this house, women rule!"

Neyonika: "Of course! (Hugging Nandini). Now, stop teasing them! Let them breathe.

Manik smirked.

Manik: "Or maybe I was the one who suffered!"

Mukti: "Sorry, Bhai, my loyalty is with Nandini Bhabhi now!"

Everyone burst into laughter, filling the house with warmth and love. They continued chatting about the Switzerland trip, Mukti's latest mischief, and Raj's excitement about having another daughter in the house.

That evening, both Manik and Nandini were exhausted. After freshening up, they rested early, preparing for the next day.

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**The Next Morning**

As they sat for breakfast, Manik's phone rang. He picked it up while sipping his coffee.

Manik: "Yes Aman... Yeah Okay, I'll be there in an hour."

Nandini: "What happened?"

Manik: "Important meeting at the office. I have to go."

Just then, the doorbell rang. A man entered, giving them a pen drive.

Delivery Man: "Sir, this is from your wedding day. The videographer sent it."

Mukti's eyes lit up.

Mukti: "Omg! We have to watch this right now!"

Neyonika: "Yes! Let's relive the memories!"

Raj: "Manik!! Stay for a while, beta. Watch it with us."

Manik sighed, looking at his watch.

Manik: "I really can't dad. I have a lot to catch up on at work. You guys enjoy. I'll watch it later."

Nandini felt a little disappointed but didn't show it.

Nandini: "It's okay. We'll watch it together after dinner when you return."

Manik nodded and left for the office.

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**Later At Night**

Everyone had their dinner, except for Nandini. She was waiting for Manik.

Mukti: "Nandini Bhabhi, at least eat something. He'll come soon."

Nandini: "It's okay Mukti, I'll wait."

To pass the time, the family decided to start watching the wedding video. As the video played, just then, Manik entered the house. He saw them watching the video and, despite his tiredness, he joined them.

But suddenly... his smile faded.

On the screen, hidden behind a wall in the background, was *Alia.*