Ambivalence

Wedding

Aaradhya's POV

Today was my haldi ceremony, and I was dressed in an elegant off-white crop top, dhoti pants, and a stylish shrug. I was all set to enjoy this special day when, suddenly, darkness enveloped my vision as someone placed a cloth over my eyes. I was about to protest and shout, but then I recognized the voice that accompanied this mysterious act—the same voice I had been yearning for the past six years.

"Shh, it's me," he said, his voice deep, husky, and cold. I couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and curiosity.

"What are you doing here? Can't you let me have some peace for a day?" I grumbled, irritated by his unexpected intrusion.

As I stood there, helpless, I felt something cool, like a paste, touching my feet. Confused and a bit alarmed, I asked, "Ye kya kar rahe hain aap?"

(What are you doing?)

He remained silent and continued his actions. His palm slowly ran down my arm, sending shivers through my body as it brushed against my waist. Even though I couldn't see him, I could sense his presence—his body heat, his breath on the nape of my neck.

His hand moved from around my bare shoulders, tracing a path around my neck. I instinctively turned to push him away, my hands landing on his chest, but I found myself lacking the strength to resist. His touch was electrifying, his proximity overwhelming. I felt his warm hand caressing my cheeks, and I was startled when his breath brushed against my neck. He shifted to my other side, repeating the gesture.

 I desperately wanted to say something, but the words caught in my throat as he whispered, "Humari dulhan ko sabse pehle haldi hum lagna chahte hai."

(I wanted to be the first one to apply haldi on my bride.)

As he stepped away from me, I let out a sigh of relief, though my heart continued to race. The emotions coursing through me felt unfamiliar and somewhat frightening. All I could hear, smell, and see was him. These sensations were new to me and stirred a sense of apprehension. After I removed the blindfold, I couldn't find him anywhere. I was left in a state of confusion, unsure of how to face my family. 

I quickly called Anvi for help. As I made my way to the garden where the haldi ceremony was taking place, I felt a sense of dread. My fear came true when my mother asked, "Aaru, ye haldi kisne lagayi tumhe?"

(Aaru, who applied the haldi on you?)

I stammered, "Vo... vo... mumma, vo Anu ne."

(Tha...That, mumma. Anu did.)

Thankfully, Anvi came to my rescue, covering for me by saying, "Ha mumma, aapne bola tha na ki pehle bhagwan ki chadi Hui haldi lagana hai sabse pehle, toh Maine laga di."

(Yes, mumma, you told me to apply the haldi offered to God, so I did.)

My mother seemed satisfied with the explanation, and I heaved a sigh of relief. Anvi truly was my savior."Thank you," I whispered to her.

"I saved you this time. Tell your husband to control his hormones a bit."

My eyes widened at her comment. "Shut up, kuch bhi bolti hai."

(Shut up, saying all rubbish.)

After the haldi ceremony, they adorned me with jewelry made of fresh white flowers and red roses. It was a beautiful sight, and I felt like a princess. Everyone applied the turmeric and sandalwood paste on my skin, and we celebrated with dance and delicious food. 

As the festivities continued, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the support of my family and friends. Following the haldi, it was time for me to take a milk bath. My brothers lifted me and gently placed me inside a large copper tub. I was drenched in milk, with rose petals sticking to my body. After this refreshing ritual, I rested for a few hours, preparing for the wedding ceremony scheduled for 3 am.