Soon, Annika and Shivaay found themselves packing their bags and preparing for their flight back home. Zipping their luggage, they check out from the suit and head to the nearest bazaar. The last few hours before their departure were dedicated to shopping for the perfect gifts for their family.
"What should we get?" Annika wondered aloud looking around the buzzing market.
As a response to her, Shivaay rolled his eyes and scratched his forehead blaming women and their obsession with shopping. Annika, his wife was another person when it came to shopping and cosmetics. Her love for blush and lipstick was undoubtedly more than her love for him. Sighing at her, he murmured, "kuch le lo. It doesn't matter what you give them, but despite that they will love it. Aur yaar jaldi se complete kar lo shopping."
[Trans-Take something of your choice.]
[Trans- and for god sake complete your shopping at the soonest.]
Plucking her lips in a pout, she slightly whacked his arm. "Aap be na! Kya jaldi hain?"
[Trans- *don't know how to translate this*. ]
[Trans- What's the hurry?]
"Flight is in next four hours! And we need to be inside the airport 2 hours before the plane. And knowing you, one of a kind I mean women, this shopping would take more than estimated time."
"Haww! Annika exclaimed. "I don't take much time. Pakka. Pinky promise." She tried consoling her traumatized husband.
Shivaay blew out air from his mouth and adjusted the backpack straps on his shoulders. "You told the same when you went out with Maa. At the end was I carrying your weirdly 'apparently hot' pink bag and Maa's shawl was on my shoulder. It was so embarrassing."
"Awwww! You look so cute." Shivaay huffed seeing her act all lovey-dovey. With the acts of her, he knew something was coming. Something he dreaded the most. "Don't worry you will still look cute. Wo dekhiye, woh suits kitne acche hain. Wait I will go ask the price."
[Trans- see over there, those suits look nice.]
Annika hurriedly walked to the store, where she pinpointed and asked for the salesperson there to show her the collections. Knowing her too well, Shivaay gripped their luggage and rolled it, as he walked closer to her.
"Shivaay kaisa hai? Mummy ji ko pasand aayega? Thoda weight hein, so I doubt she will be able to be comfortable." Pondered Annika.
[Trans- Shivaay how is it? Would Mummy ji like it? It's little heavy,]
"Sab kuch aap he decide kar rahe ho," Shivaay mumbled while checking the fabric material.
[Trans- you speak both the ways.]
"Hmmm!" Annika hummed and tossed her handbag in the hands of her husband, as she immersed herself into shopping mode.
Soon Shivaay accepted his fate and stood waiting for his wife to complete the selection. Many minutes later and after shuffling from different stores Annika concluded and selected a few.
Knowing her mother-in-law, Pinky's love for traditional clothing, Annika decided to buy her a couple of exquisite sarees. These sarees were studded with intricate embroidery and adorned with colourful motifs, representing the rich cultural heritage of the region. To complement the sarees, Annika also chose shawls made of the finest Pashmina wool, known for their warmth and luxurious feel. Annika hoped these gifts would bring a smile to Pinky's face and showcase her appreciation for the cultural diversity of the world.
Next on their shopping list were presents for Shakti, Shivaay's father, and his brother Shubh.
"Mummy ji ka toh ho gaya. Now what should be get for the boys?"
[Trans- gifts for mummy ji is done.]
"Boys? As in my father as a boy?" Shivaay raised his brows judging her choice of words. "What am I then? Kid? But I don't think kids are handsome and gentlemen like me."
"Besharam!" Annika twisted her mouth and pretended to be angry however he knew she wasn't and was presently blushing as she faked her cough. "The weather is too cold. See even I caught up with the cold. *Achoo* Maybe we should get winter wear for them."
[Trans- shameless.]
"Maybe if you stayed still under the blankets as I cuddled you, then you wouldn't have caught a cold. But you were in a taekwondo position." He loved rilling her up and at the end, she would be all red.
"Beshrami ke hadd he nahi hai." She said walking past him as he smiled riling her. "Mister don't get lost. Follow me with luggage and shopping bags.
[Trans- your shameless doesn't have limits ]
"Yes ma'am."
Understanding that the weather would soon turn chilly back home, Annika had made up her mind and decided to gift both of them cosy sweaters. They carefully selected sweaters made of the softest wool, ensuring warmth and comfort during the colder months. To complete the ensemble, they chose indigenous shoes that would add a touch of beauty to Shakti and Shubh's outfits.
Annika couldn't help but feel excited as she envisioned the joy on her family's faces when they received these thoughtful gifts. It was her way of expressing gratitude for their love and support, and also a token of love for her new family.
With the gifts beautifully wrapped and the bags packed, Annika and Shivaay bid farewell to the serene honeymoon destination. As they boarded their flight back home, their hearts were filled with contentment, anticipation, and an eagerness to reunite with their loved ones.
__🤍__
Shakti was overwhelmed with joy as he embraced Shivaay and Annika. "Welcome baccho!" The couple, with their beaming smiles and sparkling eyes, conveyed their happiness and contentment, marking the successful completion of their much-awaited honeymoon.
[Trans- dear children!]
As they walked together towards the parking lot, Shakti couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in both Shivaay and Annika. Shivaay, usually composed and reserved, appeared more relaxed and at ease, as if a heavy burden had been lifted off his shoulders. Now, back on familiar ground, Shivaay seemed relieved and grateful for the comforts of home.
Annika beamed with joy and excitement. "Oh, Uncle ji! It was absolutely incredible," she exclaimed. "Nepal was amazing, the mountains were so beautiful, shubh Bhai would have loved it. Haina Shivaay?"
[Trans- isn't it]
"Absolutely. Bhai would have been happy as butterfly. Next for during my summer break we, I mean all family will will go somewhere hilly." Shivaay suggested.
"Ohh, the cuisine was so delicious. Uncle ji got some packets of dried momos for frying and a box of juju dhau. It is so nice. I bet you will love it."
"Then gotta taste it." Shakti agreed observing their happy smiles, as he drove the car through the dark lanes of the city.
Shivaay, with a content smile on his face, nodded in agreement. "Yes, Papa, this was a much-needed break from work. But I'm glad to be back home, where I can find familiar food that suits my taste buds. I just want plain roti and dal."
Shakti knew that his son had faced some minor challenges during their time, particularly with the unfamiliar cuisine in Nepal. He laughed and taunted his son how he made fun of those said plain rotis of his mother. " I know. I know, but I want them now. Waise papa what for dinner?"
"You maa has made some gajar ka halwa and paranthe." Shakti answered.
Shivaay whinned like a kid. "paranthe would be heavy. I wish she made some roti and gave acchar with it. I'm fed up with momos."
Shakti chuckled at Shivaay's comment about momos, knowing how much his son struggled to adjust to different culinary preferences. "It's good to have you both back home," Shakti replied. "We missed you, and your mother has been eagerly waiting to pamper you with her cooking."
"We will see if there is extra dough I will roll some roti okay?" Annika asked.
Shakti watched his son happily bob his head and soon both indulged in their talks. He stayed silent observing them.
Annika, on the other hand, exuded an aura of pure joy and contentment. Her eyes reflected the memorable experiences they had shared during their honeymoon, and her face glowed with an inner radiance that Shakti found mesmerizing. It was evident that she had thoroughly enjoyed every moment of their time away, embracing not only the beautiful landscapes and cultural diversity but also the connection she had built with his son, her life partner.
As they continued the drive in the car, Shakti listened attentively to their stories, savoring their animated descriptions of majestic mountains, serene temples, and vibrant markets. Shivaay joked about his initial struggle with the spicy Nepali cuisine, recalling the humorous encounters he had faced while exploring the local delicacies. Annika chimed in with her comical attempts at replicating traditional Nepali recipes.
Throughout the car ride home, Shakti couldn't help but reflect on the significance of this moment. Seeing his son and daughter-in-law return, brimming with love and happiness, reinforced his belief in the strength of family bonds and the importance of nurturing relationships. He couldn't have asked for a better partner for his son than Annika, whose infectious spirit and unwavering love had brought immeasurable joy to Shivaay's life.
__🤍__
As the evening progressed, Shakti and Pinky ensured that the house was filled with an air of celebration. Pinky had prepared a delectable feast comprising Shivaay favourite paneer ke sabzi with paranthe and Annika's favorite gajar ka halwa The aroma wafting from the kitchen filled the house, setting the stage for a joyous homecoming.
The family gathered around the dining table, their laughter and chatter filling the room with a warmth that only loved ones can bring. Shakti couldn't help but smile as he watched Shivaay and Annika steal glances at each other, their connection growing stronger with every passing moment.
After enjoying a sumptuous dinner, Annika settled herself comfortably on the soft carpeted floor of the living room. Meanwhile, Shivaay eagerly unzipped their luggage, revealing the gifts they had brought back with them. Pinky and Shakti made themselves comfortable on the plush sofa, eagerly waiting for the unpacking to begin.
As soon as Shivaay opened one of the large carry-on bags, Shubh, couldn't contain his excitement and his eyes widened with delight. He stared at the gift paper bags, eager to discover what was hidden within them. Annika noticed Shubh's enthusiasm and smiled at his infectious energy.
"Saabar Karo Bhai." Annika mumbled.
[Trans- have patience brother]
With careful precision, Annika passed Pinky the beautifully patterned sarees and intricately designed shawls they had picked up on their trip. Pinky admired each one with admiration, imagining herself draped in the elegant fabrics. As she sorted through the collection, she couldn't help but express her gratitude to Annika for her impeccable taste in selecting the perfect sarees for her. "I loved it Anu. You should have got one for yourself. We could twin."
"Areey maa, don't you know much she is into shopping? Innocent of you to think your bahu didn't get anything for herself." Shivaay added with a smirk.
"Shivaay. I hate you." She grumbled with her brows pulled together. Annika widened her eyes as Shivaay discreetly threw a flying kiss. "You! Beshram. Chepda."
[Trans- shameless.]
"Anu," Pinky got hold her daughter-in-law and made her sit, as she glared at her son. "Shivaay why can't you sit quietly. What did you do this time!"
"Nothing. If you want ask her."
"Yes- no-thing."
"Stop it both of you. Now open the other gifts." Shubh interrupted them and then commanded.
Everyone excluding Shivaay and Annika laughed at this.
Shivaay, on the other hand, handed over the trendy sweaters and stylish footwear to his elder brother, Shubh, and indigenous footwear to his father, Shakti. Their eyes lit up with appreciation as they examined the high-quality materials and unique designs.
Shubh, unable to contain his excitement any longer, eagerly tore open his gift bags and tried them on.
"Mumma see I look so pretty na?" Shubh asked. Shubh couldn't wait to sport his new sweaters and show them off when he went out, while Shakti was thrilled with his new footwear, realizing they would be perfect for his morning walks and family outings.
"Pretty nahi handsome hota hai. And you you definitely look better than langoor." Shivaay teased.
[Trans- it's not pretty but handsome.]
[Trans- baboon.]
"Mumma!" Shubh whinned.
"Shivaay!"
"Shiv."
Both Pinky and Annika at the same time raised their voice against Shivaay as he teased his elder brother. Shivaay raised up his hands up in surrender. "Bhai you are pretty!"
"Yes pretty."
Pinky and Shakti exchanged glances, their hearts filled with gratitude for Annika's thoughtfulness and love. They could see how much effort she had put into ensuring that everyone received a gift that perfectly matched their personality and preferences. It was a testament to her deep understanding of each family member and her unwavering commitment to their happiness.
As the night unfolded, the living room transformed into a treasure trove of love and appreciation. The sound of laughter and the warmth of familial bonds filled the air, creating lasting memories of a beautiful evening spent together, surrounded by the love and affection that only a close-knit family can provide.
Night came to an end, and Shakti bid goodnight to his family, he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and bliss. He knew that the love and happiness radiating from Shivaay and Annika's faces promised a future filled with boundless joy, cherished moments, and unyielding love.
As he retired to his room, Shakti offered a silent prayer for his son and daughter-in-law, as well as for the endless possibilities and adventures that lay ahead on their journey of married life. With a heart full of love, hope, and anticipation, he drifted off to sleep, grateful for the blessings that had been bestowed upon their family and excited to witness the beautiful chapters that awaited them.
Hello everyone. First of all a very happy new year and belated merry Christmas. May 2024 being lots of happiness, joy, blessings and success into our life.
Truth to be told I wasn't updating this chapter owing to my busy schedule but I didn't want to disappoint myself and you all readers by not updating for months. Deeply apologises. Many of you might not know that I'm a law student and apart from the regular classes my schedule is also filled with moots, debates, internship, part time and others. And from 5 Jan I have my end semesters, so was every occupied. Do forgive me, if at all you were waiting for the updates.
I have so many plans for this book. I believe in tradition should be blended with modernization. So my main aim is to make the lead unconventional. Hope I'm reaching them.
Now coming to the present chapter, how was it? The the writing start from where I left or was it puzzled? Let me know you thoughts and reviews. They are most welcome.