"The only moment in which you can be truly Alive is the present moment"
- Buddhist Monk Thich Bhar Hanh
Abir P.O.V
I was talking to Mr. Sinha when I felt someone applying haldi.
By feeling the size of hands I was sure that it was Angry Chorni.
Cleaning my eyes I was finding her. And their she is with that mischievous smile.
When will she grow up?
I started to run behind her. Is she champion in running competition?
She runs so fast.
Now she is hiding behind her father.
Papa ki ladli!!
Huhhh
Can't she simply answer my question?
Why is there need to give twisted answer?
I complained about her to her dad I thought he will take my side but he.... Took his daughters side.
I saw her Bhabhi applying haldi on Mishti's face from back I couldn't control myself and burst out laughing.
Mishti cleaned her eyes and saw it was her bhabhi.
She did complain about Bhabhi's behavior then bhabhi said that I am her brother someone for first time was taking my side in her family how would I let them down.
Everyone was applying haldi on each other.
I saw Mishti wiping her face with tissue paper.
Now her face was little bit Clean. But how would I let it remain clean?
Time for revenge!
She said that I don't have haldi .
Silly girl doesn't she knows business man se kabhi panga nhi lete.
I removed the haldi from my face and applied it on her clean cheeks.
Her skin is so soft.
What does she uses to keep it so soft?
She closed her eyes feeling my touch.
She was looking Serene.
The closed eyes, the tiny smile and her soft skin.
After sometime we had some photoshoot.
Who hired the cameraman? He doesn't know how to click photos.
I am sure the pics will be worst.
It was time for Shaadi.
During Shaadi I saw Mishti she was wearing backless blouse.
Her back was looking like a canvas ready to paint.
I wish I had colors I would have painted her white back with all the colors.
(Khayaal dekh rhe ho bande ke😏😏)
Abir what are you saying just stop it!!
I started looking here and there.
I saw their was one group of boys all drooling over Mishti and then one of them said something all others laughed.
I know the boy would have said something nonsense about Mishti.
I will kill them all at once!!
Ldki ki izzat krna nhi jaante ye??
Bloody bastards!
I need to talk to thier parents.
I took a photo of them and made a note to teach them a lesson.
Now I have to hide Mishti's back anyhow.
Who said her to wear this backless blouse?
Abir my dear it was you only.
She was saying no to the blouse but it was you who forced her.
She was right.
She is always right.
I was the one who was stupid.
I stood between the boys and Mishti then I saw that Nishant was also checking out on Mishti.
Why is everyone drooling over her?
Guys go and get women's for yourself stop checking out on my woman.
My woman Abir!!
when did she become yours?
Yes she is mine she is my legally married wife.
Look at her palm mera naam likha hai.
Whatever it may be now I have to protect her from these evil eyes
I stood exactly behind her almost touching all her backside.
Now she is safe.
But till how long will I stand behind her?
I need to find a proper solution for it.
She gasped at sudden encounter, she slowly turned her head and looked up at me.
Finding me she again focused on wedding.
I leaned to her height, she just had a shower, she was smelling like fresh Jasmine flower, her feminine scent does something to me, her shower gel spreads all over the bathroom, whenever I enter bathroom I could smell it. She likes to have Bath.
She does have a another matching jacket for it.
Here people are looking at her with lustful eyes and she is worried about Wedding.
Antique piece!!
Going in our room she started searching for jacket in our bag as she got Jacket I turned so that she doesn't feel uncomfortable.
When I turned she was still looking beautiful.
From front side her stomach area was seen so I asked her to tie it so that no one can see her with those bloody lustful eyes.
We again went to marriage. There the couple was taking phere. It made me remember about my marriage with Mishti.
I was not sure about marriage I did it only because of Maa.
I didn't wanted to make any girl's life hell.
But looking at Mishti she even made the hell feel like heaven.
She is an angel behind the mask of Human.
I thought to test her knowledge so I asked her the reason about only taking 7 rounds.
And look she has answer to my every question.
She is beauty with Brain.
She must be Miss Universe.
But now no chance but she can become
Mrs. World.
I must enroll her name.
After marriage while lunch she made me eat whole big ladoo how can I leave her like that so I took the bite of rice with chilli.
She is really funny she took the Jamun and ate it at one go.
Her tiny mouth and that big Jamun was funny site.
At reception she played guitar very well but not like last time.
At the event she did it with all her heart but toady she played it just for Family's sake.
After that she was going to change clothes I thought it would be more effort for her so I told her not to change she did asked me if I am ok with that clothes.
I knew from where did the question came.
It was because of my behavior during afternoon.
Even if she was wearing jeans top her body was covered, so I didn't had any problem.
She just played one song that too because of me as I said her only to do it when her heart says it.
She did took my advice seriously.
Going outside I heard Mrs. Singh badmouthing Mishti.
How could she do it?
I was going to answer her when I heard Mishti saying 'thik hai' what does she means by it?
Now she is walking so fast. I should make her participate in Olympic so that atleast India would be profited.
She said me to setup stage for her .
What is this now?
I mean does she know to play sitar?
Or is she doing it just to shut up Mrs. Singh?
She is confusing.
I arranged everything as she said and was waiting for her. She came with a flute also. She also knows to play flute.
She played sitar and flute both so perfectly.
She is all rounder.
I don't think their is anything in this world she can't do.
The way she makes everyone shut thier mouth up is fabulous.
Her words are enough.
Her line
"Kapdo pr na hi jaye to accha hai kyuki bhagwan dwarkadish aur Shankar dono hai."
Was very deep. Only people who have sulci and gyri in their brain will understand.
(Little science.)
When she came near me and maa I was staring at her in disbelief.
And then I tried to crack a joke but couldn't.
In some time we were in our room . I went first and had shower.
When I came out she went to have shower.
She is taking more time today. Might be tired due to working from past one month.
She hasn't rested from the day we planned marriage of Kuhu and Kunal .
She may feel relaxed after taking shower.
I slept as the sleep overtook me soon.
I woke up hearing the alarm set by Mishti.
She went to have shower but came out earlier than normal.
Even I was lazy to have bath so early so I had small shower.
Coming out I saw everything was packed and she was not in room, she shall be with Ketu or maa to help them.
How come she manages to work so fast?
I doubt if she is robot?
I got ready to leave and took our bags out of room and completed checking out formality till then everyone else gathered near the reception.
We were heading towards airport in car, Mishti showed me pics of Bhai and bhabhi.
I feel like she also wanted to do aarti of me like her bhabhi did of bhai.
If she wanted then why she didn't asked??
Now she is looking at her mobile screen and blushing.
No no she is not blushing it is because of this morning weather.
She is not blushing.
Abir don't think anything.
She doesn't has any affair abir she won't cheat you.
We reached airport had some breakfast.
When we were in flying in plane mishti was curious to know what will I gift ketu today.
What do I gift ketu ?
I only give her some cash.
Why is mishti becoming so filmy and emotional?
She wants me to gift ketu things given by mishti.
What is difference if I give her money or give her things given by mishti?
Mishti is over thinking and nothing else.
Reaching home we did grah pravesh of Kuhu. I remembered how Mishti was smiling during her grah pravesh.
The cloth with her first footprints is their in my cupboard. It was maa who forced me to keep it their.
We all slept.
I heard someone banging door but I didn't woke up to open it, I knew mishti would open door and she did.
I also heard her calling my name but i was to lazy to get up.
Then she started to shake me little by my shoulder unwantedely I have to get up and go in hall. Can't Kuhu wear saree by her own.
I waited outside for them to complete and then went in room to get ready.
While getting ready Mishti said me to eat food and appreciate it however it maybe and not behave like I behaved on her first rasoi.
I was feeling guilty for my behavior on that day so I apologized to her.
She is a positive girl, she took that thing also positively.
She went out for looking after breakfast and I called my gaurds and sent them pic of the boys who were drooling over Mishti.
They all were from Mumbai so it was easy for gaurds to catch them.
One of them was Son of our business partner we have signed for a project just a month ago.
I will cancel our deal once I go to office
Mishti came and stood beside me I knew she going to say something so I said her to shoot and she did.
She wanted me to not eat non veg. Ok it's only for a day I can manage.
When I went to have breakfast, omelette were not present thier I gave a questioning look to Mishti she blinked her eyes in assurance.
There is nothing that she can't do, she can do everything.
The proportion of salt in pasta was not perfect. I glanced at others Maa and ketu had only sandwich whereas Kunal had pasta with a fake smile.
Looking at Mishti she was having pasta with a neutral face. She is very good liar.
Looking at her face everyone will think pasta is good in taste.
Guest came and we started muh dikhai function.
Maa told Mishti to bring Kuhu.
It's been 15 minutes since Mishti went to bring Kuhu, they are not here yet.
I continued to talk to some people around and then I saw Mishti Kuhu and Ketu coming.
What is Kuhu wearing?
Saree ki length itni kaise km ho gyi?
Saree nhi thi to atleast Mishti se le lete saree , uske paas bohot saree hai lekin pehnte hi nhi hai.
Ye Kya pehen ke aai hai kuhu?
Ab Ghar ki izzat gyi!!!
Ye Jo aunties bethe hai Tana marne ka ek mauka nhi chodengi.
Kuhu ko aise saree pehen ne thi to kisi aur din pehen lete aaj Kyu?
Aaj ye aunties peeche nhi hatengi.
Be ready for a war!
Kyuki Maa ko bilkul pasand nhi hai ki koi hmpr ungli uthaye.
I gave a confusing look to Mishti while she just shrugged indicating even she doesn't know.
Every women started to look at the face of Kuhu and give her some shagun while we men were just standing and looking at them.
One woman said
"Meenakshi Ji apni bahu ko aapne saree pehen na nhi sikhaya Kya?"
Aaj to Kuhu gyi!
"Aree aise baat nhi hai ben, baat to ye hai ki inke paise khatam ho gye hai isiliye to saree dekho kitni choti hai" Said another woman.
(I am not against such sarees this is just for fun and take it same way plz)
She added fuel to fire.
Aaj to sb gye.
I glanced at Maa she was boiling in anger listening to comments .
Aaj ye jwalamukhi phatega aur hm sb ko Jala dega.
Koi jldi se paani lao yaar.
"Kunal do you have any problem by Kuhu wearing this saree?"
Asked Mishti to Kunal everyone is looking towards Kunal and he nodded his head in no.
"Kuhu are you uncomfortable?"
All heads towards Kuhu.
She also nodded in no.
"Ketu you have any problem?" All heads towards Ketu she also repeated the action of Kuhu.
"Maa you have any problem?"
I guessed Maa would say yes she has problem with Kuhu's dress but to my surprise she nodded in no.
I was not able to understand what Mishti wants to prove.
"Abir you have any problem?"
What problem would I have ?
I don't have any problem.
So I nodded in no.
"Thanks aunty I will pass your invaluable advice to someone who really cares. Because none of us here cares."
It took me and others to understand what did she meant.
She meant that no one in family is having problem my Kuhu wearing such dresses so she will pass on the invaluable advice to someone who cares.
This girl and her sarcasm are awesome.
How will she let anyone bad-mouth about our family.
She will always take stand for everyone.
"Mishti baat krne ke tamiz nhi hai kya?"
Who is she to question Mishti?
She can't say anything about Mishti.
I was going to speak when Mishti again spoke
"I wasn't aware that answering a question was considered as talking back"
She knows to shut up everyone's mouth.
"Mishti if want to answer then answer in a straight way why to be sarcastic?"
Doesn't she knows that Mishti is a sarcastic girl.
"Sorry to say but sarcasm fall out of my mouth like stupidity falls out of yours"
Mishti knows to stand for herself as well as family.
I should call and thanks Papa for making Mishti so strong and bold girl.
I am feeling proud of her.
Feeling proud to be part of her life.
Feeling proud to be friend of such strong and fierce girl.
I am sure nothing in this world has the capability to stop her.
I was just staring at her in awe.
She alone was enough for everyone else present.
I looked at Maa her anger did vanish, she was also just staring at Mishti.
Everyone was just staring at her like they saw a confident warrior.
The ladies who commented zipped up thier mouth.
The function continued but it was not normal, it had something different.
Soon the function finished we all had lunch with guests itself so everyone was moving towards thier room but maa stopped us
"Kuhu Maine tumhe ya Mishti ko kabhi kapdo pr kuch nhi kaha hai. Pr ek baat yaad rakhna jb bhi Tum parivaar ke saath Bahar jaogi tb tum sirf saree ya dress pehno gi."
Ordered Maa in anger to Kuhu.
Bechari pehle din hi daant of gyi.
"Let me be clear Indian saree pehenogi not this one. If you want to wear this type of sarees you can wear daily but not when you are with Family outside."
"I don't like people saying bad about my Family. Ye reputation, ye izzat bohot mehnat se kamai hai Aise betuki baato me me Meri izzat gawana nhi chahti" continued Maa.
"Maa I am sorry agr Maine aaj function me kuch galat bol Diya ho to" pardoned Mishti.
Why is she sorry? Whatever she did was right there is no need to be sorry.
Maa called Mishti near her.
She kept her her hand on Mishti's head and said
"Mishti tumne aaj kuch galat nhi kiya. Jo kiya sahi kiya. I am proud of you. Me sochti thi ki mere baad kon iss Ghar ko sambhalega kahi mere baad ye parivaar Tut gaya to? Lekin aaj tumhe dekh kr laga ki Maine tumhe Abir ke liye chunkar sahi faisla liya hai."
I was shocked by Maa's behavior. I agreed with Maa because even I Know Mishti can single handedly manage the Rajvansh sadan.
Mishti hugged Maa and said
"Me aapko kahi jaane nhi dungi"
Ketu came and hugged Maa from other side.
Maa kept her one hand on Ketu's cheek and another on Mishti's cheek
"Meri dono betiya aise hi saath rho aur khush raho."
Blessed Maa.
I opened camera of my phone and took photo unknown to them.
I saw Kunal joining them from Ketu's side, I couldn't control myself so even I joined from Mishti's side.
Kuhu was standing alone, Mishti called her join the hug.
She joined us for hug from Kunal's behind.
Maa was in between,to her left was ketu,Kunal and Kuhu while to Maa's right side was Mishti and then me.
We had family hug after a long time.
Such moments are very less in our family.
But they are bliss.
I felt Maa's hand over my head, it was after long time when Maa kept her hand over head. It is all because of me I didn't talk to Maa as she blackmailed me and then even when baba had a heart attack Maa wasn't with baba she was in office.
It does feel good when Maa caresses my head, I do miss her affection and touch.
"Accha to ab jao sb so jao thodi der shaam ko Bhai duj celebrate krni hai"
Said Maa. Unwillingly we all broke the hug and went to our room.
Entering room Mishti went to washroom to change while I changed in the room itself and slept.
I woke up hearing sound of opening door.
Moving my eyes balls I found it was Mishti who was going to washroom.
I looked at the wall clock it showed 5:30pm.
Maheshwari's were coming by 7 then why she woke up so early. She could have slept a little more.
Sighing I again slept.
Once again I heard door opening which meant she came out of the bathroom.
Lazily I got up and sat resting my back at head rest.
"Mishti why you got up early? You could have slept for some more time"
"Abir I have to get ready make ketu ready"
"Mishti ketu isn't kid she can get ready by herself."
"But I want to make her ready any problem?"
"No. Do whatever you want to do"
"Abir your clothes are ready. And I have kept Ketu's gift on the study table"
"Mishti I am not going to give it"
"You have to Abir"
"No"
"Yes"
"No don't start this game again"
She thought for a while and said
"Abir let's do one deal"
"What kind of deal?"
"Today if you give this gift to Ketu and she doesn't looks happy more than normal, then I won't force you next time to do so"
Good deal. I am sure ketu won't give any reaction. She will just smile like always.
"Ok deal"
"Mishti"
"Hmm"
"What about Dinner?"
"I am not going to make dinner. Lunch is already their in abudant quantity"
"Ok"
She has not made food from past 4 days.
Last time I ate food made by her was Biryani.
Then we went to marriage and today breakfast was made by Kuhu. Lunch was ordered.
Will tomorrow morning she make breakfast?
She took her things like saree and jewellery and went to Ketki's room.
I got out of bed had a shower and got ready.
Mishti always keeps my clothes ready.
Today she selected white kurta with fee red lining.
Otherwise earlier I use to stand for one hour in front of cupboard and end up wearing black or white shirt with blue jeans.
I glanced at the gift kept by Mishti for Ketu, I didn't opened it but was able to understand it was a set of clothes with some jewelry.
Going out I found that Maa was there rest all might be in their rooms.
Sighing I again went inside my room and started to work. They will call me once all are present except me.
After sometime I heard door opening turning around it was Mishti. She was looking elegant in that saree.
Everything was perfect.
Her saree gave more shine to her skin color.
Her blouse was of red color with shine that did gave mishti a royal look.
She was looking like a queen.
"You look like a queen Mishti"
She looked down smiling,
"Thanks aap bhi acche lg rhe ho"
Ok this is the first time she is complementing me. I need to work on my skills so that I could match her level.
I mean I know I am handsome but I need to work hard to match her pace.
Smiling I went out and she continued her makeup. She didn't do makeup yet she was looking good.
Their is no need of the artificial layer called Makeup for her.
Going out I was about to call Mr. Mehta when I remembered today they also might be celebrating festival it isn't good to call and give bad news.
So I stopped.
I saw kunal and then we both started talking.
All ladies came in the hall and started to chit chat.
As usual Maheshwari's were on time.
They have brought gifts for everyone I guess.
They were only suppose to bring gift for Mishti why so many gifts.
Are they all gifts for Mishti?
Glancing at Mishti she was grinning like a child.
We all shared some formal words and sat to chit chat for sometime.
Papa took one bag and removed pairs of Jasmine buds from it.
Smell of Jasmine spread all over the room as it was air conditioned room.
Mishti came ahead and stood her back facing papa.
Smilingly Papa arranged the whole bunch of Jasmine buds in her hair which were styled as bun.
She passed some clips to her father, he used it to fix buds.
Seemed like Papa had experience because he set buds right in his first attempt.
The flowers added more beauty to beauty standing in front of me.
Rajshri Maa took baliya of Mishti as she was really looking beautiful among all here.
Papa gave some strings of buds to Ketu as well.
Mishti helped Ketu to wear those buds.
That's when I noticed ketu, she was also wearing a saree. She was looking beautiful.
She will look beautiful after all Mishti made her ready.
Looking at all the ladies I came to know every lady was wearing saree.
I glanced at Kuhu she was wearing a normal saree.
She doesn't knows to wear saree which meant Mishti helped her.
Rajshri Maa and bhabhi were already wearing the Jasmine buds in there hairs.
Mishti took some strings of buds and clipped it on the hairs of Maa.
After sometime Maa asked to start rituals.
According to age Papa was the eldest so he will be first .
Looking around I saw Mishti has already kept Ketki's gift on the near by table.
Papa sat on the small table, Mishti did his aarti and took his blessings.
All this while Bhai was clicking thier photos.
Papa gave her a gift she didn't open it. Might be she wants to open it privately.
But why?
None of Maheshwari member said anything, may be Mishti behaves likes this every time.
Papa was going to get up when she said
"Rukiye papa"
I am getting serial vibes.
Every head was towards her
"Papa aaj ketu bhi aapki aarti kregi"
What ketu???
why??
Mishti did aarti of papa as daughter.
Daughter can do aarti of her father if his sister is not present.
Why ketu??
She whispered something in Ketu's ear .
Ketu's eyes were filled with tears but even a single drop didn't came out.
Maheshwari's just smiled accepting proposal of Mishti.
The thing which I like About Maheshwari's is they accept everyone quickly yet they love the person like they know him/her from ages.
We Rajvansh are example of it.
Maheshwari's have a very big heart.
Maheshwari's always respected our decision and accepted us as thier own in no time.
Maa also didn't had any problem with it, so how could I speak.
Ketu took the thal and did aarti of Papa that reminded me of how ketu use to do the same thing with baba.
Mishti is right, ketu might be missing baba by looking at Mishti and papa so she asked Ketu to do aarti of Papa.
She is always right.
Rajshri Maa gave a paper bag to papa.
Papa removed the gift from it and gave it Ketu. First Ketu denied then she looked at Mishti, Mishti who was standing beside me just once blinked her eyes and Ketu accepted the gift.
I am really surprised by the bond these two share.
Just a blink and Ketu accepted the gift, Mishti whispered something and Ketu did as she said.
I am confused who shares sibling relation with Ketu?
After that Bhai sat and Mishti did his aarti with Divya. They both were looking adorable.
Bhai also gave her gift, but she didn't opened it.
I was curious to know why is she behaving so?
What is there in those boxes that Mishti is not opening in front of everyone?
Kunal clicked pictures when Mishti was doing aarti of Bhai.
Bhai bent and touched mishti's feet.
She gave him blessing saying
"Ashta putr vati bhava" which meant May you get 8 boy kids.
Everyone laughed at her blessing.
Bhai got up and said
"Tujhe Aath (eight) putriya (girls)ho. Phir hm mere aath(eight) Beto ki Shaadi Teri aath(eight) betiyo se karawa denge"
Mishti frowned at the statement and said
"Bhai kis se Shaadi krni hai ye decision baccho ka hoga. I am no one to force them in marriage. It should be thier choice"
She is so thoughtful girl. She has already planned about her future kids.
I looked at Maa and thought how she forced me in this marriage.
How could she do this with her own son?
She should learn something from Mishti.
But what is advantage of learning it now?
Ab Kya krna jb chidiya chug gyi kheth.
It was my turn now.
I sat on the table, ketu came front and started to follow the old rituals.
When she was done Mishti gave me the gift which I passed on to ketu.
She was looking very happy seeing the gift.
She quickly opened it and gasped at the things inside.
She showed it to everyone, it was a rose gold color lehanga with some works on it and a rose gold necklace set.
Ketu was literally dancing in joy.
It reminded me of how baba use to bring gift and ask me to give it to Ketu.
Mishti was again right.
"Bhai ye mere liye hai sacchi?"
She asked out of joy.
I just nodded my head in yes.
"It's beautiful Bhai. Waise kb liya ye aapne?"
Now what should I answer?
Mishti you put in a fix and now you are standing and smiling.
Common girl save me.
"Ketu jb hm Kunal ki Shaadi ki shopping ke liye gye the. At that time Abir brought it for you."
What a good liar she is!!
Everyone thought whatever she said was true including me.
Liar!!
Next time I shouldn't trust her so easily.
Even I am confused when I bought it for Ketu?
I was going to get up when I saw bhabhi Taking the thal and indicating me to sit.
Now I was confused what should I gift her??
Money??
How cheap!
Papa and Bhai both gave gifts to Mishti what will they think if I gave Money to bhabhi.
I choose to be honest with Bhabhi I will buy something else and gift her tomorrow.
I was waiting her to complete.
When she completed I started my side of explanation
"Bhabhi mere paas aapke liye gift nhi hai. You know I didn't know..."
"Kyu bhabhi ko Tang kr rhe ho Abir. Ek to wo pregnant hai and you . Stop joking and give her gift."
Interrupted Mishti.
What she is saying?
I don't have gift for Bhabhi.
What should I give her?
Wait she herself told me not to tell it to other now she is shouting and saying the same thing.
"Mishti Sach me nhi hai gift mere paas"
"Accha to wo Kya hai tumhare pocket me?"
Moving my eyes to the pocket of my kurta I found a red velvet rectangular box. When did it came here?
It is not mine.
I didn't brought any gift for Bhabhi.
I looked at Mishti she moved her eyeballs to the box and then at bhabhi.
Indicating me to give that box to bhabhi.
Everyone was looking at me. Bhabhi was curious to see the gift.
I removed it from my pocket and then gave it to bhabhi.
I just hope box isn't empty.
Bhabhi opened the box and smiled.
She turned it to show everyone the content of box I was impatient to see what is it.
Good I only gave gift and I am impatient to look what is there in gift.
What a life I have!
It was a set of payal.
"Abir this is stunning" said bhabhi.
"Pata hai bhabhi kl Jo ye aapka Bhai behen ka rishta bana hai na isse le ke Abir kuch jyada hi serious hai. While coming back home he goggled, the things useful for pregnant ladies. After an hour of research he came to conclusion that he will gift you payal. You know it's good for pregnant ladies to wear payal. "
Recited Mishti.
Mishti khane ke saath saath aur bhi bohot kuch accha bana leti hai.
I mean anyone who could hear her story will believe her.
I will never ever believe her.
What a good liar!
I shouldn't trust her.
Well when did I goggled?
Now I came to know it's good for pregnant ladies to wear silver payal.
"It would make loud noise when you walk" commented Kuhu.
Can't she keep quite?
Nanko yaar apni biwi ko sambhaal.
"It's good kuhu. Because during last pregnancy bhabhi use to be in kitchen at 2am . And Bhai would find her in whole house like an idiot. Bhai ke liye accha hai."
Answered Mishti.
Duniya me aisa koi sawaal nhi hai jiska jawab Mishti madam ke pass na ho.
I remembered how Bhai touched feet of Mishti, so even I should touch feet of bhabhi.
I took her blessing and she gave me blessings of living happily.
She was going to bend to wear payal but I stopped her
"Bhabhi aap mt jhukiye app pregnant hai . Mujhe dijiye payal me pehnta hu"
She quickly gave it to and pulled her saree little upwards so that I could make her wear anklets.
I made her wear it, she was smiling like a kid.
I felt happy.
As I got up Bhabhi said
"Jldi se Mishti ko Meri line me laake khadi kr do"
"Bs itni si baat. Rukiye"
I went to Mishti grabbed her hand and made her stand beside Bhabhi.
All gave me disbelief look.
Did I do something wrong.
Haa yes wait line me to ek dusre ke peeche khade rehte hai na .
I made Mishti stand behind Bhabhi.
Everyone laughed except me and Mishti.
We both didn't understand anything.
"Ridhima ye dono grown up kids hai. Inhe nhi samjhe gi ye baat."
What me and kid??
Bhabhi told me Mishti ko bhabhi ki line me khadi kr do. So I did the same.
What is wrong here?
Aur aisi konsi baat hai Jo mujhe aur Mishti ko nhi samjhe gi pr inn sb ko samajh gyi??
Confusion!!!!
It was nanko's turn now.
Ketu did his aarti and as usual he only gave money to Ketu. Ketu looked disappointed.
She would give the same look when I gave her money.
I was wrong.
There is a difference between giving money and giving things like I gave her.
After Nanko was done he and Kuhu went to Kuhu's house .
And we rest all sat for a while.
Mishti sat beside papa and kept her head on his shoulder.
Both didn't speak anything to each other but I felt like their silence was peaceful.
Sometimes silence is peaceful.
They both don't need any words to communicate.
I silently took picture of them.
It was a beautiful site.
Maa and ketu congratulated Bhai and bhabhi.
Bhai and papa were telling stories when thier wives were pregnant.
I am sure Maa and bhabhi will give Both of them good punishment once they reach home.
Bhai told about how bhabhi wanted walnut ice cream at 3am.
Papa told how Maa's mood changed every second.
And how difficult it was for him to handle her.
Maa felt like eating fish which is speciality of thier village. So papa went to village and brought the fish as soon as possible.
From all the incidents one thing was clear Bhai and papa love thier wives to core.
They did everything as they demanded as per their wish.
Mishti was smiling listening to them.
I didn't say anything much was just listening to what others said.
Soon we all were on dining table. Bhabhi didn't wanted to eat the things present.
"Bhabhi aapki Favorite dish khayenge?"
Asked Mishti.
Bhabhi nodded her head in yes.
She went to kitchen and brought a bowl with her.
Placing a bowl full of Palak Paneer in front Bhabhi Mishti sat beside me.
Liar.
She said she won't make anything. Now who made palak paneer?
"Bhabhi I can't make it like Maa but I tried my best."
Bhabhi was delighted she started eating it.
After having first bite bhabhi said
"Mishti I agree it's not like Maa but it is best."
Mishti just smiled and continued eating.
"Mishti when did you make it"
"After I made Ketu ready"
"How do you manage everything?"
"Zindagi sb sikha deti hai. Ajeeb Rajvansh"
Our talks no one could hear except us.
I just kept num listening to her. Because I understood what she meant.
Experiences in life teaches you everything.
But what happened in her life that she learnt to manage everything?
Is she hiding something from me?
No no she won't hide anything from me.
Let it be.
We all finished our dinner while Bhabhi finished the palak paneer I couldn't have even a single bite of it.
We all again sat in hall talking, sharing some experiences.
Mishti sat on floor in front of Rajshri Maa and kept her head on Maa's lap.
Habitually Maa's hand started caressing her hairs.
Bhai was teasing ketu like he is her elder brother and not me.
Maheshwari's really got very close to our family in very few months.
Whereas Kuhu's family is still in the formalities even after being in touch more than 1 year.
After sometime I saw Mishti was asleep in her mother's lap.
Mother's lap are always magical.
Maa and Papa looked at their Princess sleeping near them and then smiled looking at each other as if conveying something which I couldn't understand.
I couldn't stop myself from clicking pics.
It was time for Maheshwari's to take a leave.
Very carefully and in a lovely way Maa called out her name caressing her cheeks.
Mishti opened her eyes lazily, understanding her position of sleeping in front of everyone she got up with a jerk and said sorry.
I was biting my inner cheeks to control smiling.
Maheshwari's have gift to me, Maa and ketu. While the gift for Kuhu and Kunal were kept with Maa so she would give it to both of them.
We all accompanied Maheshwari's till gate and then went back to our room.
Mishti went to Washroom to change and I changed in room itself.
She came out and started to make her things ready to sleep and then she made things ready for tomorrow.
I didn't answered a call which was from office as family was present I need to call them so I went out.
After call when I opened door I saw Mishti was was sitting on the bed watching the gifts given to her.
She wanted some privacy to open it I am here at wrong time.
I should give her some privacy.
So I muttered sorry and turned to leave.
I stopped hearing my name from her mouth.
I turned facing towards her, she gestured me to sit on bed.
I did as she said.
There were gift box between her and me.
She has opened both of the gifts one was having a saree and another was having a pearl necklace.
According to box size I knew saree was given by papa and neckpiece by Bhai.
"Abir pata hai ye saree" she said pointing towards the saree
"Ye same saree papa ne unki first wedding anniversary pr Maa ko gift ki thi. When I saw it later, I badly wanted that saree. Same design, same color. Maa was ready to give me that saree but I didn't wanted it because it was a part of memory for her. So papa searched for the saree, unluckily he didn't got same saree. See now when my own first wedding anniversary is near by then he got it."
She said with sad smile but with glint in her eyes.
She has innumerable stories.
She even thought about Maa's feeling.
She is a mature girl.
"Mishti what is special in this saree. That papa didn't got other same piece?"
"Abir look at the saree."
Glancing at saree, I recognized saree had a different shine. Which other sarees don't have.
"Hmm"
"This is a gadwal silk saree Abir. It is handmade. And it has its own shine."
"So you like these gadwal silk sarees?"
"I like these gadwal silk sarees as well as kanchipuram sarees."
"Kanchipuram sarees?"
"Yes the one like I wore today they are also handmade."
"In short you like handmade sarees"
"No. Handmade traditional sarees."
"Ok and what Bhai gifted you?"
"This Pearl necklace"
She said showing the neckpiece to me. It was beautiful and it had very fine working on it.
"Real pearls?"
"Of course"
"You like pearl jewellery?"
"Yes"
She got up and packed the gifts as it is and kept them in the locker of her shelf.
She called papa, as soon as papa picked up call Mishti started chanting I love you.
Kiddish.
She was on call thanking her father for the gift, that's when I noticed the color of her mehndi it was turned in to darkest shade of brown.
Her fair skin was contrasting the dark brown color. The oil did it's work properly.
She kept the phone on speaker and started to arrange her dressing table.
Rajshri Maa was on the call she said
"Bohot acchi kahaniya bana leti hai Mishti"
Mishti stopped what she was doing and looked at me through mirror I was still sitting on the bed.
"Konsi kahani maa? Aap kuch bhi kehti hai"
"Wo ridhima ke payal ki kahani. I know that it was you who bought the payal."
"Aise baat nhi hai Maa it was Abir"
She tried convincing Maa.
"Jhut mt bol Mishti."
"Maa aap Sach keh rhi hai. Maine nhi kharide the payal it was Mishti. Infact I was going to buy another gift tomorrow and give bhabhi"
I answered honestly while walking towards Mishti and her phone.
Mishti gave me angry glare.
She was looking cute. Her cheek got red nose scrunched and eyes got big.
"Dehko mujhe pata tha."
"Aapko to sb pata hota hai aap antaryami hai."
"Chup badmash. Waise Ketki ka gift accha tha"
I couldn't do anything but just stare at Mishti while she was doing the same.
Maa's voice brought us out of our trance.
"Abir"
"Ha Maa. Me keh rha tha ki agar bhabhi ko kuch chahiye to Bata Dena me laa dunga."
"Sirf apni behen see pyaar hai mujhse nhi"
Asked like a kid Maa.
"Aise baat nhi hai Maa. Agar aapko aur bhabhi ko kuch chahiye to Bata dijiyega"
"Ha to thik hai."
I didn't knew what to speak further so I disconnected the call saying good night.
"Peechle Janam me Satyawadi harishchandra ke student the Kya?"
Asked Mishti. Ok so she is back in her angry avtaar.
"Uska pata nhi. But you tell me when did you kept gift of Bhabhi in my pocket?"
"Jb ketu papa ki aarti kr rhi thi tb."
"So you kept gift in my pocket saying it is your phone."
"Hmm"
"That's why I was feeling like it's not mobile but something else. And I didn't pay attention to it."
"Hmm"
She went near cupboard and opened it to take something out, I kept the phone on table and went near her. I was standing behind her facing her back.
"Mishti"
"Hmm"
"Thanks ketu aur bhabhi ke gift ke liye."
"Tum mujhe gaali de rhe ho?"
She said while turning towards me. What me and gaali no way.
"Mishti Maine thanks kaha"
"Ha to friends me wo gaali hi maane jati hai"
I rolled my eyes at her dramatic behavior.
She went near her setup to sleep while I followed her. She sat on the floor near her blanket and I sat on the edge of bed near her.
"Mishti aaj Ketki jitni khush thi na usse dekh ke mujhe ehsaas hua ki me kitna galat tha. Mujhe lgta tha ki paise Dene me aur koi gift kharid ke dene me koi farak hi nhi hai. Next time me khud jaake gift laaunga Ketki ke liye, the effort is worth it."
"Abir I am glad you understood."
"Waise Mishti tumne aisa Kyu kaha ki payal is good for pregnant ladies?"
"Abir payal is good for every lady"
"Reason?"
"Abir payal is made of silver. Silver help to boost the immune system and overall health of the women. And even it's sound create positive energy."
"Then why don't you wear payal?"
She was silent for few seconds and then she said
"They create noise Abir. And even I go to work so you know"
I just hummed in response. But whatever she said I wasn't convinced totally.
"Abir Kuhu Kunal abhi tk nhi aaye Kal subah unki flight hai"
"Honeymoon Mana rhe honge car me aur Kya"
"Abirrrr!"
Silence.
"Abir ek baat kahu? Bura mt manna"
"Kaho na Mishti"
"Abir you took blessings of bhabhi but didn't took blessings of Ketu. Behen chotti ho ya badi uske aashirvad Lena zarori hai."
I thought for a while she was right. I didn't took blessings of Ketu. I should have done that.
"Sorry I forgot."
"Sorry mujhse nhi Ketu se kaho."
Silence.
"Abir me ketu ke pass jaake aati hu"
"Chalo me bhi chalta hu"
We both went to Ketki's room.
We were standing near the door, then we saw that door was open and Ketu was standing near the window.
Mishti indicated me to stand here itself by hand, she went inside kept her hand on Ketu's shoulder. Ketu turned and hugged Mishti crying.
Mishti started rubbing her back slightly as if consoling her.
Through eyes I asked Mishti what happened, she moved her head sideways saying she doesn't know.
I pointed my fingers towards me and then inside asking Mishti should I come inside
She showed me her Palm Telling me not to come inside.
Then I pointed my index finger to myself and then in the direction of our room asking her should I go to our room and give them some time alone.
She nodded her head giving permission.
I didn't go to our room I waited for her in the hall.
What might have happened that Ketu was crying?
Did I do something wrong?
Why was ketu crying?
Did something wrong happened with her?
No! No!
Abir stop your overthinking man.
Mishti is thier with ketu, she will handle ketu.
Mishti will manage everything.
But what Happened?
Why she is still thier in Ketu's room?
It's too late.
I should check whether both are well or not.
Moving towards Ketu's room I saw that Ketu was asleep keeping her head on Mishti's lap.
Mishti was caressing her hairs and humming some song.
I removed my phone from my track pants pocket and clicked photos.
It was scene giving feeling like a mother is calming her unstable daughter.
I wish Ketki also grows up same as Mishti. Strong yet soft.
Calm yet has the power to bring storm.
Mishti looked up at me and then carefully kept Ketu's head on bed, slided blanket over her, pulled the window to close it and came out slowly closing the door.
I asked her what happened to Ketu .
"She was missing her father"
"Hmm"
"Pata hai Mishti, baba use to bring gift for Ketu and give to us so that we could pass on to Ketu. And little ketu she still thinks all the gift me and Nanko brought for her."
She just chuckled at my memory.
We both went to our room.
She was laying on the floor and I was on the bed.
I rolled towards her side laying on my stomach I tilted my head so that I could see her face.
"Abir Kya kr rhe ho?"
"Tumse baat"
"Konsi baat?"
"Mishti tumne bataya nhi Ketu aur bhabhi ke gift ke paise kitne hue?"
It was her time to roll eyes.
"Abir mere liye un dono ki Khushi utni hi important hai jitni tumhare liye"
"Mishti you return me money always I spend for you and you even gave me money back which I gave you for your collection. So how can I accept you giving money for the gifts I give to my sister?"
She was quite for a while and then said
"Abir let's do one thing keep a dairy for both of us. We will clear it at the month end."
"Good idea. Wait today a employee came and gifted me diary as Diwali gift. We will use that"
I got up and removed the diary from my drawer.
Mishti also sat on her place.
Opening the first page I write today's date.
(Whatever he wrote is in bold letters)
Mishti
Ketu's gift:
Bhabhi gift:
"Mishti amount for Ketu's and Bhabhi's gift"
She acted as if counting
"7000"
"Mishti only 7000. Jhut keh rhi ho Kya?"
"Abir I am not lying. Before our marriage me, Maa and bhabhi went to market. And you know everything is at reasonable rate in market."
"Ok and what about Bhabhi's gift?"
"It was of 30,000. Because it was heavy and made up of pure silver."
I wrote 7000 in front of Ketu's name and 30000 in front of bhabhi.
I showed it to her
"Abir I gave you 37,000 or took from you?"
"Of course Mishti you gave me"
"Then who will mention it? Maa?"
"Oh ha ok wait"
I mentioned that Mishti gave me money.
Mishti gave money
Ketu's gift: 7000
Bhabhi's gift: 30000
"Perfect"
I kept the dairy in the drawer and went to bed.
She was typing something on her phone I asked her
"Mishti why did you brought payal of 30000 when you don't wear it. That too of pure silver?"
She stopped typing, keeping her gaze on Mobile's screen she said
"I liked the design so I brought it. And I like pure things."
She kept her mobile aside and slept while I did the same I slept on bed switching off the light.
"Mishti"
"Abir sleep it's already 1:35am"
"Ok goodnight"
"Good night Abir"
Soon sleep took over me.
**********
Update is of 8.1k words.
I updated it before time.
So please pardon me for next update if it gets late.
This update was to show character development of Abir.
I wanted to show how Abir started caring for her, how he remembers about Advika and his father less.
You can criticize as well as appreciate.
Do mention if any improvement needed.
Plz do vote and comment
Any suggestions??
Next update will have some MishBir alone time.