Author's POV
The next morning, the soft glow of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm and inviting light over Abhiram and Siya's room. Abhiram was the first to wake, feeling a sense of contentment from the peaceful sleep he had shared with Siya. He turned his head to look at Siya, who was still resting soundly beside him.
A tender smile spread across Abhiram's face as he watched Siya sleep. He reached out gently and brushed a strand of hair away from Siya's face, careful not to wake her.
With a soft sigh, Abhiram leaned in closer to Siya, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. The warmth of her skin against his lips filled him with a sense of peace and contentment. He lingered there for a moment.
Abhiram decided to let Siya rest peacefully. He rose gently from his side of the bed, careful not to disturb her. He moved to the window and looked outside at the morning sky, taking a deep breath of fresh air. The world outside seemed peaceful, much like the calmness he felt inside.
As he turned back to Siya, Abhiram couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth in his heart. He walked over to her and pulled the covers a little higher, ensuring she remained comfortable and cozy. As he moved quietly around the room, Abhiram gathered his clothes and headed to the bathroom to freshen up.
Siya woke up with a yawn, stretching her arms above her head as she blinked against the soft morning light. As she turned to the other side of the bed, she noticed that Abhiram was not beside her.
Remembering that today was Bhai Dooj, a special day dedicated to celebrating the bond between siblings, Siya quickly got out of bed. She knew she had to get ready fast and prepare her brothers' favorite sweet dish for the occasion.
Siya freshened up and dressed in traditional attire, a beautiful sari that was perfect for the festive day. As she moved around the room, she made a mental list of the ingredients she needed for the sweets and the tasks she had to complete.
Siya headed to the kitchen to begin her preparations for the day, her heart light with excitement for the festivities ahead.
Siya moved into the kitchen with a sense of purpose, her excitement for the day ahead evident in her movements. Today was Bhai Dooj, and she was determined to make it special for her siblings by preparing their favorite sweet treats.
For Krish, Siya knew he loved cupcakes. She made sure to bake a batch of his favorite vanilla cupcakes with colorful frosting and sprinkles on top. She knew Krish would be thrilled with the vibrant treats.
Vihaan's favorite was gajar ka halwa, a traditional Indian carrot pudding. Siya grated fresh carrots, and slowly cooked them with milk, sugar, and cardamom. The kitchen filled with the sweet, comforting aroma of the dish as it cooked.
For Reyansh, she prepared gulab jamun, his absolute favorite dessert. She carefully kneaded the dough, shaped it into small balls, and fried them until golden brown. She then soaked them in a sweet syrup infused with cardamom and rose water.
For Ishaan, Siya made homemade chocolate. She melted the finest dark chocolate and mixed it with nuts and dried fruits, pouring the mixture into molds. Once set, the chocolates would be a delightful treat for Ishaan.
While she was making each sibling's favorite sweet, Siya didn't forget about her sister, her Aadu. She decided to make Aadhya's favorite cake—a rich, moist chocolate cake with a smooth chocolate ganache. She knew how much Aadhya adored the cake, and she wanted her sister to feel special on this day too.
Lastly, Siya made ladoo for her bhabhi, knowing it was her favorite sweet. She mixed gram flour, sugar, and ghee, then shaped the mixture into round ladoos, adding a touch of cardamom for flavor.
At 10 am, everyone gathered in the living room to celebrate Bhai Dooj, eagerly waiting for Siya to start the festivities. As soon as she entered the room, the whole family brightened up and all perform traditional pooja.
Then Siya entered the room with trays of everyone's favorite sweet dishes, a warm smile on her face as she greeted her family.
After the pooja, the women of the house settled down to listen to Bhai Dooj stories, a tradition where they know the significance of bhai dooj.
She started with Reyansh and did aarti, placing a tilak and rice on his forehead and offering him a plate of gulab jamun. Reyansh took a bite and beamed with delight. ""Siya, this is incredible! I've missed your cooking so much. No one makes food like you," he praised her. Siya gave him a fresh coconut and five batasa, or sugar/jaggery drop as a part of the ritual, and in return. Reyansh gave her a gift.
Next, Siya turned to Krish did his aarti, giving him his plate of cupcakes. Krish took a bite and grinned widely. "Wow, bhabhi maa! These cupcakes are so good. Did you put extra sprinkles for me?" he asked playfully, and Siya nodded with a laugh. Siya gave him a fresh coconut and five batasa, or sugar/jaggery drop as a part of the ritual, and in return. Krish also gave Siya a gift.
Then, Siya approached Ishaan did his aarti, offering him homemade chocolates. Ishaan's eyes sparkled with delight as he tried them. "These chocolates are amazing, bhabhi! So much better than anything store-bought," he complimented her. Siya gave him a fresh coconut and five batasa, or sugar/jaggery drop as a part of the ritual, and in return. He handed her his gift as thanks.
Vihaan was next. Siya did his aarti, and offered him his favorite gajar ka halwa. Vihaan took a bite and closed his eyes in satisfaction. "This is perfect, bhabhi! No one can make it better than you!" he said with genuine appreciation. Siya gave him a fresh coconut and five batasa, or sugar/jaggery drop as a part of the ritual, and in return. He also gave Siya her gift.
The siblings all praised Siya for her exceptional cooking skills and the effort she put into making each of their favorite sweets. They also joked with Aadhya, affectionately teasing Aadhya, "Aadu, you should learn from bhabhi maa is treating us with her handmade sweets, and you can barely heat up water!"
Aadhya laughed along with them and replied with a grin, "Why would I learn when bhabhi maa are there to take care of me?" She playfully asked Siya, "What did you make for me, bhabhi?"
Siya smiled at Aadhya's excitement and reassured Aadhya, "Of course, I made your favorite cake! I couldn't forget about you, Aadu." Aadhya's face lit up with happiness.
Aadhya's face lit up with delight as she saw the cake. "Bhabhi maa, you know me so well! This looks amazing!" she exclaimed, admiring the cake's intricate decoration. Siya had put a lot of effort into making it special for Aadhya, decorating it with colorful frosting and elegant designs.
Siya handed the cake to Aadhya, who couldn't contain her excitement. "Thank you, bhabhi maa! You're the best!" Aadhya said, giving Siya a big hug. Siya hugged her back, feeling a sense of joy from making Aadhya happy.
After receiving her favorite cake, Aadhya wanted to express her gratitude to Siya. "You always take such good care of all of us, bhabhi maa. We are so lucky to have you in our lives," Aadhya said sincerely, her eyes filled with appreciation.
Siya nodded, feeling the warmth of her family's love and gratitude. "I'm just happy to see all of you smile. That's all that matters to me," Siya replied, her heart filled with contentment.
As the Bhai Dooj celebration continued, Siya's mom and Di made harsh remarks about Siya's efforts to make everyone's favorite sweets for the occasion.
"Siya, my daughter Anaya can cook much better than you," her mom said dismissively. "You're making a big fuss over nothing."
Anaya nodded in agreement, a smug expression on her face. "Siya, your cooking is just average. I can makes gourmet dishes," she added, clearly trying to undermine Siya's efforts.
Abhiram, eyes flashed with anger, "Don't you dare speak to Siya like that!" he warned, his voice low and firm.
Abhiram,voice was firm and unyielding as he addressed Anaya and her mother. "Is that so, Anaya?" he challenged. "If you're such a great cook, then why don't you take charge of lunch today?"
Anaya's face turned pale at Abhiram's suggestion, and her mother's expression quickly shifted to concern. They both knew that Anaya didn't have the skills to even boil water, let alone prepare a meal for the family.
Abhiram didn't hold back. "Since you think you can do better, today is your chance to prove it," he said, his gaze locked on Anaya's. "Show us all what you're capable of."
Anaya shifted uncomfortably, avoiding Abhiram's gaze as her confidence faltered. Her mother tried to interject, but Abhiram's firm tone left no room for argument.
"Siya works hard to make this day special for everyone," Abhiram continued, his voice resolute. Siya puts her heart into everything she does. She deserves appreciation for her efforts, not unjust criticism. Until you can match her dedication and talent, I'd suggest you refrain from making baseless claims."
Siya felt a sense of gratitude for Abhiram's unwavering support. His words left Anaya and her mother speechless, realizing they had overstepped their bounds in criticizing Siya.
Abhiram continued, his gaze stern. "Siya is not just my wife; she's your queen, just as I am your king. She deserves the same respect and admiration you would you give to me. You have no right to belittle her or her efforts."
Her mom and Di were taken aback by Abhiram's strong words. Siya, however, felt a wave of gratitude for his unwavering support.
Abhiram went on, his tone firm and uncompromising. "If you can't treat her with respect, then you should leave this house. Siya works hard to make everyone happy. She deserves your appreciation, not your disdain. Do not test me, or I will not hold back."
Her Mom and Di exchanged uncertain glances, stunned by Abhiram's strong stance. Siya, standing beside him, felt reassured and protected by his words.
Abhiram placed a protective hand on Siya's shoulder, his gaze never leaving the two women. "Remember, Siya is the heart of this home. Without her, there would be no joy. I expect you to treat her with the respect and kindness she deserves," he concluded, making it clear that he would not tolerate any further disrespect towards his wife.
Abhiram’s firm stance left Anaya and her mother momentarily speechless, their faces pale as they grappled with the reality of his challenge. Abhiram’s unwavering support for Siya and his bold words made it clear that he would not tolerate any disrespect toward his wife.
Siya felt a rush of gratitude for Abhiram's defense of her. His actions reaffirmed the strength of their relationship and his commitment to standing by her side. She met his gaze, her heart filled with love for him.
As the room settled back into a more relaxed atmosphere, Siya turned her attention back to her family. Despite the earlier tension caused by her stepmother and stepsister's remarks, she was grateful for Abhiram's unwavering support. It gave her the strength to continue the Bhai Dooj celebration with her loved ones.
As the Bhai Dooj celebration wound down, Siya and Abhiram made their way back to their room. Though the festivities had ended on a positive note, Abhiram's anger was evident as he replayed the harsh words Siya had endured from her mom and Di. He closed the door behind them, his brow furrowed with frustration.
Siya could sense Abhiram's anger and tried to approach him carefully. "Kya baat hai, Abhir ("What is it, Abhir)? What's bothering you?" she asked gently, her eyes searching his.
Abhiram took a deep breath, his voice filled with concern. "Bacha, you let them speak to you like that," he said, his tone serious. "Why didn't you stand up for yourself? You deserve respect."
Siya's gaze softened as she looked at Abhiram , her gaze filled with a hint of sadness. "Abhir, I just didn't want to cause a scene," she explained softly. "I wanted today to be special for everyone, especially for my brothers."
Abhiram sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Bacha, I understand that, but you can't let them walk all over you," he said, his voice tender but firm. "I stood up for you today, but what if I'm not around next time? You have to stand up for yourself."
Siya nodded, understanding his concern. "You're right, Abhir. I just... I struggle with that sometimes," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Abhiram's gaze softened as he reached out and cupped Siya's face in his hands. "Bacha, you're stronger than you think," he said, his tone gentle yet determined. "I want you to know that you can do it. Stand tall, don't let anyone diminish your worth."
Siya leaned into Abhiram's touch, feeling his warmth and support. "Thank you for believing in me, Abhir," she whispered, her heart filled with gratitude for his unwavering presence in her life.
Abhiram smiled, his eyes filled with affection. "You don't have to thank me for that, Siya," he said, brushing his thumb gently across her cheek. "You're my queen, and I'll always be there for you. But remember, you also have to be there for yourself."
Siya's gaze softened as she looked at Abhiram. "Abhir, don't worry now it doesn't bother me as much. I'm used to it," she said softly, trying to calm him.
Abhiram shook his head, not entirely convinced. "Siya, tum meri queen ho, meri bacha ("Siya, you are my queen, my bacha)," he said, his voice filled with a mix of love and protectiveness. "I can't stand by and let anyone speak to you like that. You deserve so much better."
He moved closer to her, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "You have such a kind heart, but you need to stand up for yourself more, love. I don't want you to feel like you have to tolerate their harsh words."
Siya placed her hand over his, feeling the warmth of his touch. "I know, Abhir. I'm grateful you stood up for me," she said, her voice filled with affection.
Abhiram's gaze softened as he looked into her eyes. "Bacha, you mean the world to me. I can't let anyone hurt you," he whispered, his tone filled with tenderness.
As Abhiram held Siya close, he could still sense his lingering frustration about the earlier taunts she had faced. He pulled back slightly, looking into her eyes with a serious expression. "Siya, bacha, you have to promise me that you won't let them treat you like that again," he said, his voice a mix of concern and affection.
Siya nodded, placing a hand on his chest as a reassurance. "I know, Abhir. I'll be stronger next time," she replied softly.
Abhiram cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing against her skin. "Tum meri jaan ho, Siya (You are my life, Siya)," he murmured. "I can't bear to see you hurt."
Siya leaned into his touch, her heart touched by his protectiveness. "You're always there for me, Abhir, than I don't have to worry," she said, her eyes filled with love.
He leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear. "Aur main hamesha rahunga (And I will always be there)," he whispered, his voice low and intimate. "Because you're my queen, and I will always stand by you."
Siya's heart skipped a beat at his words. "I'm so lucky to have you," she whispered, feeling a wave of gratitude and love.
Abhiram smiled, his lips brushing against her ear. "Luck has nothing to do with it, Siya. It's destiny," he said, his tone filled with a hint of playfulness.
Siya giggled at his response, wrapping her arms around him. "Then I'm glad destiny brought us together," she replied, her voice soft and sweet.
Abhiram pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, his love for her evident in every touch."
As Abhiram and Siya continued to hold each other close, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of their embrace. The comfort and safety they found in each other's arms filled them with a sense of peace and contentment.
Abhiram gently guided Siya to their bed, both of them settling in with a shared sense of ease. They leaned into each other, Abhiram's arm draped protectively around Siya as she nestled her head against his chest.
The steady rhythm of Abhiram's heartbeat was a soothing lullaby for Siya, calming her mind and helping her relax. His other hand gently stroked her hair, his touch gentle and reassuring.
Siya closed her eyes, breathing in the familiar scent of Abhiram, her body relaxing as she melted into his embrace. The warmth of his presence surrounded her, making her feel safe and loved.
Abhiram, too, found solace in Siya's closeness. The softness of her breath against his skin and the gentle rise and fall of her body against his brought him a sense of serenity. He kissed the top of her head tenderly, silently expressing his love for her.
As they lay together, their bodies intertwined, the exhaustion of the day began to wash away. In the comfort of each other's arms, they drifted into a peaceful slumber, their dreams filled with visions of a shared future and the love they held for each other.
For Abhiram and Siya, the night was a sanctuary, a moment of respite and connection where they could find rest and rejuvenation in the embrace of their love.