We reached home, and to my surprise, the flat was beautifully decorated. Soft lights, scattered petals, and an air of warmth greeted me. It was Aryan's flat—quiet, intimate, and prepared just for us.
As I stepped forward, Aryan gently stopped me. "Wait here," he whispered, before disappearing inside.
A moment later, he returned with an Aarti ki Thali and a Kalash in his hands, his eyes glowing with a tenderness I hadn't seen before.
"A proper welcome for my bride," he said softly.
He performed the aarti with such reverence, his eyes never leaving mine. Then, placing the Kalash at my feet, he gestured for me to tip it over. The faint clink of the pot echoed gently as I nudged it forward. I dipped my feet in aalta and walked ahead, leaving crimson footprints on a white cloth—marking the beginning of our new life together.
Aryan stepped closer, tilting my chin so our eyes met. His voice, low and full of emotion, made my heart race.
"That's how beauty walked into my life."
A soft blush warmed my cheeks, and in that moment, everything felt beautifully perfect.
Without another word, Aryan began to kiss me—starting from my forehead, tracing down to my cheeks, chin, and finally capturing my lips. The magic between us sparked again after so long. I kissed him back, holding him tightly.
"So, it's our first night," Aryan murmured with a playful smile.
"Yeah," I whispered back, kissing him softly. "Do you feel something different?"
Aryan chuckled, his fingers brushing my hair aside. "It feels more special."
I smiled mischievously as I began unbuttoning his shirt. "More special how?"
He leaned in, his voice barely a breath. "Like I'm falling in love with you all over again."
Our lips met again, this time deeper, hungrier. Slowly, the layers between us disappeared, and we found ourselves wrapped in each other's warmth, rediscovering each other in a way that felt both familiar and new.
Later, I woke up wrapped in Aryan's arms, wearing his shirt, feeling the soft rise and fall of his breath beneath me.
"Are you thirsty?" he asked softly.
"Actually, yes," I replied, but then teased, "Wait, I'll get it."
As I slipped out of bed, Aryan grinned. "I think this outfit looks perfect on you, but only for my eyes."
I laughed quietly, "Shut up, Aryan."
I padded to the kitchen, returned with a bottle of wine and two glasses, and nestled back onto his arm.
"You know," I said as I poured the wine, "this is our first time having wine together after marriage."
Aryan smiled, clinking his glass to mine. "Yup."
I rested my head on his arm again, feeling safe, loved, and right where I was meant to be.