13-10-2026, 06:48 PM
Vishal stood beside Shaktil, trying desperately to control the emotions rising inside him. Only a few minutes earlier, he had arrived at the wedding hall with a smile, excited to celebrate his best friend's marriage. Now, he felt as though the ground beneath his feet had disappeared.
Shubha was the woman he had once loved.
He had never imagined that he would meet her again, especially not as the bride of his closest friend.
Shaktil, however, knew nothing about their past. He was happily occupied with the wedding rituals, welcoming relatives, and thanking everyone who had come to bless the couple.
Shaktil: "Vishal, why are you standing so quietly? You were talking nonstop when you arrived, and now you've suddenly become silent. I know you're tired after your journey, but I want you to enjoy this day with me. You've always been an important part of my life, and having you here means a lot to me. Come and sit with us. After the ceremony, we'll have plenty of time to talk."
Vishal: "Nothing, da. I'm just tired after the flight, and the wedding hall is crowded. Don't worry about me. You concentrate on your wedding. Today is your special day, and I don't want to disturb you with anything unnecessary. I'll sit with the other guests and join you whenever you need me."
Vishal forced a smile.
He could not tell Shaktil the truth. He could not tell his best friend that the woman standing beside him was the person who had once occupied his heart.
Across the stage, Shubha was equally disturbed.
She had recognized Vishal the moment she saw him. The familiar face brought back memories she had tried to put away for years. She remembered their conversations, their affection, the promises they had once made, and the circumstances that had separated them.
She had agreed to marry Shaktil through an arranged marriage. She had met him through her parents, spoken to him, and accepted the proposal because she believed he was a sensible and responsible man.
She had not known that Vishal was his closest friend.
Shubha (thinking): "Vishal... Why did you have to appear in my life again today? I thought those memories belonged to my past. I agreed to this marriage because I wanted to begin a new life, and Shaktil has done nothing wrong to me. He trusts Vishal completely, and he is happy about our marriage. How can I allow my old feelings to hurt two people who mean something different to me? I have to remain calm. Whatever happened between Vishal and me, I cannot forget that I am getting married today."
The wedding ceremony continued.
When Shaktil tied the sacred thread around Shubha's neck, everyone in the hall applauded. Her parents wiped away tears of happiness, while Bapu and Mai welcomed their new daughter-in-law with affection.
Vishal stood among the guests and watched the ceremony until the end.
Every smile felt painful. Every congratulation reminded him that Shubha was now his best friend's wife.
Yet he stayed.
He congratulated Shaktil, participated in the photographs, and behaved as though nothing had happened.
Vishal: "Congratulations, Shaktil. I genuinely wish you both a happy married life. I hope you and Shubha build a beautiful relationship filled with understanding and trust. You have always been a good friend to me, and I want to see you happy. Please take care of her and stand beside her through every difficulty. You deserve happiness, da, and I hope this marriage brings you everything you've been waiting for."
Shaktil: "Thank you, Vishal. Your wishes mean a lot to me. I hope you'll remain close to us even after the wedding. I know your work may take you abroad again, but whenever you're here, our home should feel like your own home. You've been part of my life for years, and I don't want marriage to change our friendship."
Vishal lowered his eyes.
He wondered whether he would ever be able to enter Shaktil's home without remembering the woman he had once loved.
But he nodded.
Vishal: "Of course, da. Our friendship isn't going to disappear because you've got married. I'll always wish you well."
That evening, the newly married couple left the marriage hall and travelled to Shaktil's family home.
Shubha sat beside her husband, looking out through the car window. Shaktil occasionally turned towards her with a smile, unaware of the emotional struggle taking place inside her.
Shaktil: "Shubha, it's been a long day, hasn't it? You've been surrounded by relatives since morning, and I know you're probably exhausted. Once we reach home, you can relax. My parents are looking forward to welcoming you properly, and I hope you'll feel comfortable there. I know moving into a new home and living with a new family can take time, so please don't feel that you have to adjust to everything immediately. We'll learn together."
Shubha: "Thank you, Shaktil. I'm tired, but I'm also relieved that everything went smoothly. I know this is a new beginning for both of us. I'll need some time to become familiar with the house, your family, and our daily routine. I hope we can speak openly whenever something troubles us. I may not understand everything immediately, but I'll try my best to make this marriage work."
Shaktil smiled warmly.
When they arrived, his father, Bapu, was waiting in the hall. His mother, Mai, came forward with a welcoming smile.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Welcome home, Shubha. From today, this is your home too. Don't stand there worrying about whether you're doing everything correctly. Every family has its own habits, and you'll understand ours little by little. I'm happy that Shaktil has found a sensible wife, and I hope you both build a peaceful life together. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to tell us."
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Come inside, dear. You must be exhausted after the wedding. I've arranged everything for you, and you don't have to worry about household responsibilities tonight. First, have something to eat and get some rest. From tomorrow, we'll slowly get to know each other better. I want you to feel that you have gained another mother here, not that you've left your own mother behind."
Shubha: "Thank you, Bapu. Thank you, Mai. Your words make me feel much more comfortable. I was nervous about entering a new home, but you've welcomed me so kindly. I'll do my best to respect this family and build a good relationship with everyone. I only hope that, with time, I can become as comfortable here as I was in my parents' house."
Mai affectionately touched Shubha's shoulder.
After dinner, the family members began making arrangements for the couple's first night.
The bedroom had been decorated with flowers. Fresh bedsheets covered the bed, and a small lamp illuminated the room. The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, completely different from the crowded wedding hall.
Shubha entered the bedroom and sat near the edge of the bed.
For the first time that day, she was alone with Shaktil.
The thought made her nervous, not because he had frightened her, but because she knew that marriage brought emotional expectations she was still learning to understand.
Shaktil entered a few minutes later and closed the door gently.
Shaktil: "Shubha, I know this is a new experience for both of us. We've spoken about marriage, family, and our expectations, but now we're actually beginning our life together. I don't want you to feel that you must behave in a particular way simply because this is our first night. You can talk to me about anything, even if it's something you find difficult to say. I want us to begin our relationship with honesty and comfort rather than pressure."
Shubha looked at him appreciatively.
Shubha: "I'm glad you're saying that, Shaktil. I've been thinking about today and everything that's going to change in our lives. You're no longer just the man I met during the bride-seeing ceremony. You're my husband now, and I understand the responsibility that comes with that relationship. I want us to become close, but I also want us to understand each other gradually. Sometimes I may feel nervous, and I hope you'll give me the freedom to tell you how I feel without worrying that you'll misunderstand me."
Shaktil: "You don't have to be afraid of that, Shubha. I married you because I wanted a partner, not someone who feels she must hide her emotions from me. I know we haven't spent years together before marriage, and there are many things we still don't know about each other. We can learn them slowly. I want you to feel safe with me, and I want you to know that your feelings matter just as much as mine."
His words eased some of her tension.
They continued talking about their childhood memories, their families, their favourite foods, and the small things that made them happy. For a while, Shubha forgot the painful surprise of seeing Vishal at the wedding.
Then Shaktil moved a little closer and gently reached for her hand.
His touch was affectionate and tentative. He looked at her with the warmth of a husband who wanted to feel close to his wife.
But the moment he touched her, Vishal's face suddenly appeared in Shubha's mind.
She remembered the man standing silently at the wedding. She remembered the way their eyes had met. She remembered a chapter of her life that she had believed was over.
Her heart became unsettled.
She gently withdrew her hand.
Shaktil: "Shubha, is something wrong? You've suddenly become quiet, and you seem worried. Did I do anything that made you uncomfortable? If I did, please tell me. I don't want you to sit here feeling distressed while I'm completely unaware of what's going on in your mind."
Shubha struggled to find the right words.
Shubha: "I'm sorry, Shaktil. You haven't done anything wrong. You've been very kind to me, and I appreciate that. But today has been emotionally exhausting, and I'm finding it difficult to settle down. I need a little time to feel comfortable with everything. Can we please leave things here for tonight and just talk for a while longer? I don't want to pretend that I'm ready when my mind is still unsettled."
Shaktil looked at her carefully.
Shaktil: "Of course, Shubha. You don't need to apologize for telling me how you feel. We don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with. I would rather spend the night talking to you and helping you feel relaxed than make you feel pressured. Our marriage isn't going to be decided by what happens on the first night. We have many years ahead of us, and we'll move forward together when we're both comfortable."
Shubha felt a mixture of relief and guilt.
She was relieved that Shaktil had understood her, but she also felt guilty because she knew the real reason behind her confusion was connected to Vishal.
She did not want to hurt her husband. She did not want to return to the past. Yet she could not immediately silence the memories that had suddenly returned.
Shubha (thinking): "Shaktil deserves honesty, affection, and respect. He has trusted me without knowing anything about my past. I cannot blame him for a situation he didn't create. Vishal has returned unexpectedly, but that doesn't mean I should allow the past to decide my future. I need to understand my own feelings before they cause pain to everyone around me."
The couple continued talking until late into the night.
There was no argument, no accusation, and no demand for explanations.
Eventually, they settled down to rest, with Shaktil giving his wife the space she needed.
Their first night had not begun as either of them might have imagined, but it had taught them something important: a marriage needed patience as much as affection.
9. A New Morning in Her Husband's House
The next morning, sunlight entered the bedroom through the curtains.
Shubha woke up before Shaktil and remained quiet for a few minutes. The previous day's events returned to her mind one after another: the wedding, Vishal's unexpected appearance, her husband's kindness, and the conversation they had shared during their first night.
She turned towards Shaktil, who was still asleep.
He had not questioned her further or demanded an explanation. His patience made her feel grateful, but it also increased her sense of responsibility towards him.
After getting ready, she wore a simple saree and went downstairs.
Mai was already in the kitchen, preparing breakfast.
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Good morning, Shubha. Did you sleep well? I was going to let you rest a little longer because yesterday must have been exhausting. You don't have to wake up early every day just to impress us. Everyone takes time to adjust after marriage. Come and sit with me for a while. I'll show you where everything is kept, and we can have breakfast together before the others come downstairs."
Shubha: "Good morning, Mai. I slept reasonably well, thank you. I woke up early because I wasn't used to sleeping in a new place, and I thought I could help you with something. But I don't know your kitchen arrangements yet, so I didn't want to disturb anything. Please tell me what I can do. I want to become familiar with the house and learn everyone's routine without making things difficult for you."
Mai smiled.
Mai: "There's no need to be so formal with me, dear. If you want to help, you can, but you should also take care of yourself. Shaktil has spent years managing the shop and looking after his own responsibilities, so our routine can sometimes be busy. We don't expect you to understand everything on the first day. If something confuses you, ask me. There's no reason to feel shy."
Bapu entered the dining area a few minutes later.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Good morning, Shubha. I hope you're feeling comfortable here. Yesterday was a big day for all of us, and I know that the wedding celebrations can be tiring. Shaktil is a hardworking fellow, but he sometimes becomes so occupied with his shop that he forgets to take proper breaks. You may have to remind him to eat on time. At the same time, don't take every responsibility upon yourself. Both of you should look after each other."
Shubha: "Good morning, Bapu. I'll try to make sure we both maintain a good routine. I know Shaktil has many responsibilities, and I want to support him. But I also believe that a family should share its happiness and difficulties. I hope we can all speak openly and help one another whenever necessary."
Bapu nodded approvingly.
Soon, Shaktil came downstairs.
He looked at Shubha with a gentle smile, and she returned it. Although the previous night had been emotionally complicated, she wanted to give their relationship a fair chance.
Shaktil: "Good morning, Shubha. I hope you managed to get some rest. I was thinking about our conversation last night, and I want you to know that there's no need to worry about it. You don't have to explain anything before you're ready. We can take things slowly and understand each other as we go along. For now, let's have breakfast together and make today a relaxed day for both of us."
Shubha: "Good morning, Shaktil. Thank you for understanding me. I know we are still learning about each other, and I don't want a difficult moment to become a problem between us. I want to build a good relationship with you. If we continue to be patient and speak openly, I believe we'll gradually become more comfortable together."
They sat down for breakfast with Bapu and Mai.
The conversation turned to the textile shop, the wedding expenses, and the relatives who had attended the ceremony.
For a little while, Shubha felt that she could manage her new life.
Then the doorbell rang.
Mai got up to answer it.
A moment later, she returned with a familiar young man standing behind her.
It was Vishal.
Shubha's fingers tightened around her glass of water.
She had known that Vishal was Shaktil's close friend, but she had not expected him to visit so soon after the wedding.
Vishal entered the room, trying to maintain a natural expression.
Vishal: "Good morning, everyone. I hope I'm not disturbing your breakfast. I thought I'd come and spend some time with Shaktil before I get busy with my own arrangements. I have to take care of a few things after returning from abroad, but I didn't want to leave without visiting him properly. Congratulations once again to the newly married couple. I hope the wedding celebrations haven't left you both completely exhausted."
Shaktil: "Vishal! Come in, da. You're never a disturbance here. In fact, I was wondering when you'd come over. Sit down and have breakfast with us. You've travelled a long way, and we haven't had a proper chance to talk since the wedding. I want to hear about your work abroad, your plans, and how long you're thinking of staying in India this time."
Vishal sat down.
For a moment, his eyes moved towards Shubha.
She immediately looked away, pretending to be occupied with her breakfast.
Vishal: "I'll be here for a little while, depending on what happens with my work. I wanted to see you before making any other plans. You've got married now, and I suppose your days are going to be different. You'll have the shop, your family, and your wife to think about. I hope you don't forget your old friends completely. At least save a little time for us whenever possible."
Shaktil: "Don't worry, da. Marriage doesn't mean I'll stop being your friend. But yes, my responsibilities will increase, and I'll have to manage my time better. I also want to make sure Shubha feels comfortable in our home. She's just joined our family, and I don't want her to feel neglected because I'm busy with work. I'll try to balance everything properly."
Shubha listened quietly.
Every time Shaktil spoke affectionately about his marriage, she felt the weight of the secret she was carrying.
Vishal, meanwhile, was struggling to behave normally in front of his friend. He wanted to speak to Shubha, but he knew he had no right to demand a private conversation or disturb her new life.
Mai offered him some breakfast.
Mai: "Vishal, please eat something before you leave. Shaktil has told us many stories about your friendship. He says you've been there for him during difficult times, and we're happy that he has a friend like you. You should visit us whenever you're in town. Now that Shaktil is married, we hope you'll continue to be part of our family gatherings."
Vishal: "Thank you, Mai. That's very kind of you. Shaktil has always treated me like family, and I've always considered his happiness important. I'll certainly visit whenever I can. I hope I can get to know everyone better now that I'm back."
Shubha finally looked up.
Their eyes met for a second.
Vishal's expression softened, but Shubha quickly looked towards Mai.
Shaktil: "Shubha, this is Vishal, my closest friend. I know you've already met him at the wedding, but you didn't get a chance to speak properly. He's been abroad for work, so we haven't spent much time together recently. I hope both of you will feel comfortable around each other. Vishal has always been important to me, and I want my family and friends to get along well."
Shubha forced herself to speak calmly.
Shubha: "It's nice to see you again, Vishal. I hope your journey went well. Please have your breakfast. I'm sure you must have many things to take care of after returning from abroad."
Vishal: "Thank you, Shubha. The journey was fine. I hope you're settling in comfortably and that everyone is treating you well."
Shubha: "Yes, everyone has been kind to me. I'm still getting used to the new house and the daily routine, but I think that will take some time. I'm grateful that Shaktil and his parents have welcomed me so warmly."
The exchange was brief and polite.
To anyone else, they appeared to be two people meeting through a mutual friend.
Only they knew how much effort it took to speak those ordinary words.
After breakfast, Shaktil received a call from his textile shop. One of his employees needed clarification about a delivery, and Shaktil stepped into another room to handle the matter.
Bapu went outside to speak to a visitor, while Mai returned to the kitchen.
For the first time since Vishal had arrived, Shubha and Vishal found themselves alone in the living room.
Neither spoke immediately.
Vishal looked at her with years of unanswered questions in his eyes.
Vishal: "Shubha, I honestly don't know what to say. When I came to the wedding, I was expecting to congratulate my best friend and meet the woman he had chosen to marry. I never imagined that I would see you standing there as his bride. I was shocked, and I couldn't even ask you a single question. I have spent the last few days thinking about that moment. I know this isn't the place for me to question your decisions, but I need to understand one thing. Did you know that Shaktil was my friend before you agreed to marry him, or was this just as unexpected for you as it was for me?"
Shubha took a slow breath.
Shubha: "Vishal, I didn't know. My parents introduced me to Shaktil's family through an arranged-marriage proposal. I met him, spoke to him, and agreed because I believed he was a good person. Nobody told me that you were his closest friend, and I had never seen a photograph of you with him. I found out the truth only when I saw you at the wedding. You have to understand that I was shocked too. But by then, I was already dressed as his bride, and the wedding ceremony was about to begin. I couldn't stop everything and explain a past that nobody else knew about."
Vishal lowered his head.
Vishal: "I understand. I shouldn't blame you for something neither of us knew. But seeing you again brought back feelings I thought I had buried. I remembered the way we used to talk, the plans we made, and how everything ended between us. For a moment, I wanted to ask you why things had happened the way they did. Then I looked at Shaktil, and I realised that I couldn't make this about myself. He's my best friend, and he trusts me. I don't want to betray that trust, but I also don't know how to deal with what I'm feeling."
Shubha's expression became serious.
Shubha: "Vishal, listen to me carefully. I understand that seeing me again has been painful, and I'm not pretending that our past meant nothing. There was a time when you were important to me, and I cannot erase those memories simply because my life has changed. But we cannot allow our old relationship to become a wound in Shaktil's marriage. He has done nothing wrong. He has welcomed me into his life with trust, and he considers you a brother. If you care about me at all, please don't put me in a position where I have to choose between an old memory and the responsibilities I have accepted today."
Vishal remained silent.
Her words were painful, but he knew she was speaking honestly.
Shubha: "I'm not asking you to pretend that you have no feelings. You cannot control every emotion that comes into your mind. But you can control what you do with those feelings. Don't let your pain make you act in a way that could destroy your friendship with Shaktil or hurt his family. We both have a past, Vishal, but our past doesn't give us the right to interfere with the lives we've built now. You need to give yourself time to accept that."
Vishal: "You're right, Shubha. I think I was so shocked at the wedding that I didn't know how to separate my memories from the reality in front of me. I kept wondering whether I should talk to you, whether I should avoid you, or whether I should tell Shaktil something. But now I understand that acting on my confusion could make things worse. I don't want to hurt him, and I don't want to make your life difficult. I'll respect your marriage and keep our conversations appropriate. I need to learn to move forward instead of holding on to something that has already ended."
Shubha felt a small sense of relief.
Shubha: "That's all I'm asking, Vishal. You don't have to become a stranger overnight, and you don't have to pretend that we never knew each other. But we must understand our boundaries. Be Shaktil's friend as you always have been. Support him, share his happiness, and don't allow the past to come between you. If you feel upset, take some time for yourself instead of making an emotional decision. I genuinely want you to find peace and happiness in your own life."
Vishal nodded slowly.
Vishal: "I'll remember what you've said. I can't promise that every memory will disappear immediately, but I can promise that I won't deliberately create problems in your marriage. I'll respect Shaktil, and I'll respect you. I think I needed to hear this from you because I was allowing my emotions to control my thinking. Thank you for speaking honestly instead of pretending that you didn't recognize me."
Footsteps sounded in the corridor.
Shaktil returned to the living room, smiling as he put his phone away.
Shaktil: "Sorry, da. The shop called about a delivery, and I had to clear up a small issue. What were you both talking about? I hope you weren't getting bored sitting here. Vishal, if you have time, stay for lunch. We can talk properly after I've finished a few things."
Shubha and Vishal exchanged one brief glance.
Vishal: "We were just talking about how difficult it can be to settle into a new routine after a big change in life. I was telling Shubha that she should take her time adjusting to the family. Don't worry, da. I wasn't planning to leave immediately. I'll stay a little longer if I'm not disturbing you."
Shaktil smiled, completely unaware of the emotional conversation that had taken place.
Shaktil: "You're never a disturbance, Vishal. You're family to me. I hope you both get along well, because I want the people closest to me to feel comfortable around one another."
Shubha lowered her eyes.
She wanted to believe that the past could remain where it belonged.
But she knew that seeing Vishal again had awakened feelings and questions she would have to face honestly.
For now, she had made her decision.
She would protect her marriage, respect her husband, and refuse to let an unexpected reunion dictate her future.
Shubha was the woman he had once loved.
He had never imagined that he would meet her again, especially not as the bride of his closest friend.
Shaktil, however, knew nothing about their past. He was happily occupied with the wedding rituals, welcoming relatives, and thanking everyone who had come to bless the couple.
Shaktil: "Vishal, why are you standing so quietly? You were talking nonstop when you arrived, and now you've suddenly become silent. I know you're tired after your journey, but I want you to enjoy this day with me. You've always been an important part of my life, and having you here means a lot to me. Come and sit with us. After the ceremony, we'll have plenty of time to talk."
Vishal: "Nothing, da. I'm just tired after the flight, and the wedding hall is crowded. Don't worry about me. You concentrate on your wedding. Today is your special day, and I don't want to disturb you with anything unnecessary. I'll sit with the other guests and join you whenever you need me."
Vishal forced a smile.
He could not tell Shaktil the truth. He could not tell his best friend that the woman standing beside him was the person who had once occupied his heart.
Across the stage, Shubha was equally disturbed.
She had recognized Vishal the moment she saw him. The familiar face brought back memories she had tried to put away for years. She remembered their conversations, their affection, the promises they had once made, and the circumstances that had separated them.
She had agreed to marry Shaktil through an arranged marriage. She had met him through her parents, spoken to him, and accepted the proposal because she believed he was a sensible and responsible man.
She had not known that Vishal was his closest friend.
Shubha (thinking): "Vishal... Why did you have to appear in my life again today? I thought those memories belonged to my past. I agreed to this marriage because I wanted to begin a new life, and Shaktil has done nothing wrong to me. He trusts Vishal completely, and he is happy about our marriage. How can I allow my old feelings to hurt two people who mean something different to me? I have to remain calm. Whatever happened between Vishal and me, I cannot forget that I am getting married today."
The wedding ceremony continued.
When Shaktil tied the sacred thread around Shubha's neck, everyone in the hall applauded. Her parents wiped away tears of happiness, while Bapu and Mai welcomed their new daughter-in-law with affection.
Vishal stood among the guests and watched the ceremony until the end.
Every smile felt painful. Every congratulation reminded him that Shubha was now his best friend's wife.
Yet he stayed.
He congratulated Shaktil, participated in the photographs, and behaved as though nothing had happened.
Vishal: "Congratulations, Shaktil. I genuinely wish you both a happy married life. I hope you and Shubha build a beautiful relationship filled with understanding and trust. You have always been a good friend to me, and I want to see you happy. Please take care of her and stand beside her through every difficulty. You deserve happiness, da, and I hope this marriage brings you everything you've been waiting for."
Shaktil: "Thank you, Vishal. Your wishes mean a lot to me. I hope you'll remain close to us even after the wedding. I know your work may take you abroad again, but whenever you're here, our home should feel like your own home. You've been part of my life for years, and I don't want marriage to change our friendship."
Vishal lowered his eyes.
He wondered whether he would ever be able to enter Shaktil's home without remembering the woman he had once loved.
But he nodded.
Vishal: "Of course, da. Our friendship isn't going to disappear because you've got married. I'll always wish you well."
That evening, the newly married couple left the marriage hall and travelled to Shaktil's family home.
Shubha sat beside her husband, looking out through the car window. Shaktil occasionally turned towards her with a smile, unaware of the emotional struggle taking place inside her.
Shaktil: "Shubha, it's been a long day, hasn't it? You've been surrounded by relatives since morning, and I know you're probably exhausted. Once we reach home, you can relax. My parents are looking forward to welcoming you properly, and I hope you'll feel comfortable there. I know moving into a new home and living with a new family can take time, so please don't feel that you have to adjust to everything immediately. We'll learn together."
Shubha: "Thank you, Shaktil. I'm tired, but I'm also relieved that everything went smoothly. I know this is a new beginning for both of us. I'll need some time to become familiar with the house, your family, and our daily routine. I hope we can speak openly whenever something troubles us. I may not understand everything immediately, but I'll try my best to make this marriage work."
Shaktil smiled warmly.
When they arrived, his father, Bapu, was waiting in the hall. His mother, Mai, came forward with a welcoming smile.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Welcome home, Shubha. From today, this is your home too. Don't stand there worrying about whether you're doing everything correctly. Every family has its own habits, and you'll understand ours little by little. I'm happy that Shaktil has found a sensible wife, and I hope you both build a peaceful life together. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to tell us."
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Come inside, dear. You must be exhausted after the wedding. I've arranged everything for you, and you don't have to worry about household responsibilities tonight. First, have something to eat and get some rest. From tomorrow, we'll slowly get to know each other better. I want you to feel that you have gained another mother here, not that you've left your own mother behind."
Shubha: "Thank you, Bapu. Thank you, Mai. Your words make me feel much more comfortable. I was nervous about entering a new home, but you've welcomed me so kindly. I'll do my best to respect this family and build a good relationship with everyone. I only hope that, with time, I can become as comfortable here as I was in my parents' house."
Mai affectionately touched Shubha's shoulder.
After dinner, the family members began making arrangements for the couple's first night.
The bedroom had been decorated with flowers. Fresh bedsheets covered the bed, and a small lamp illuminated the room. The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, completely different from the crowded wedding hall.
Shubha entered the bedroom and sat near the edge of the bed.
For the first time that day, she was alone with Shaktil.
The thought made her nervous, not because he had frightened her, but because she knew that marriage brought emotional expectations she was still learning to understand.
Shaktil entered a few minutes later and closed the door gently.
Shaktil: "Shubha, I know this is a new experience for both of us. We've spoken about marriage, family, and our expectations, but now we're actually beginning our life together. I don't want you to feel that you must behave in a particular way simply because this is our first night. You can talk to me about anything, even if it's something you find difficult to say. I want us to begin our relationship with honesty and comfort rather than pressure."
Shubha looked at him appreciatively.
Shubha: "I'm glad you're saying that, Shaktil. I've been thinking about today and everything that's going to change in our lives. You're no longer just the man I met during the bride-seeing ceremony. You're my husband now, and I understand the responsibility that comes with that relationship. I want us to become close, but I also want us to understand each other gradually. Sometimes I may feel nervous, and I hope you'll give me the freedom to tell you how I feel without worrying that you'll misunderstand me."
Shaktil: "You don't have to be afraid of that, Shubha. I married you because I wanted a partner, not someone who feels she must hide her emotions from me. I know we haven't spent years together before marriage, and there are many things we still don't know about each other. We can learn them slowly. I want you to feel safe with me, and I want you to know that your feelings matter just as much as mine."
His words eased some of her tension.
They continued talking about their childhood memories, their families, their favourite foods, and the small things that made them happy. For a while, Shubha forgot the painful surprise of seeing Vishal at the wedding.
Then Shaktil moved a little closer and gently reached for her hand.
His touch was affectionate and tentative. He looked at her with the warmth of a husband who wanted to feel close to his wife.
But the moment he touched her, Vishal's face suddenly appeared in Shubha's mind.
She remembered the man standing silently at the wedding. She remembered the way their eyes had met. She remembered a chapter of her life that she had believed was over.
Her heart became unsettled.
She gently withdrew her hand.
Shaktil: "Shubha, is something wrong? You've suddenly become quiet, and you seem worried. Did I do anything that made you uncomfortable? If I did, please tell me. I don't want you to sit here feeling distressed while I'm completely unaware of what's going on in your mind."
Shubha struggled to find the right words.
Shubha: "I'm sorry, Shaktil. You haven't done anything wrong. You've been very kind to me, and I appreciate that. But today has been emotionally exhausting, and I'm finding it difficult to settle down. I need a little time to feel comfortable with everything. Can we please leave things here for tonight and just talk for a while longer? I don't want to pretend that I'm ready when my mind is still unsettled."
Shaktil looked at her carefully.
Shaktil: "Of course, Shubha. You don't need to apologize for telling me how you feel. We don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with. I would rather spend the night talking to you and helping you feel relaxed than make you feel pressured. Our marriage isn't going to be decided by what happens on the first night. We have many years ahead of us, and we'll move forward together when we're both comfortable."
Shubha felt a mixture of relief and guilt.
She was relieved that Shaktil had understood her, but she also felt guilty because she knew the real reason behind her confusion was connected to Vishal.
She did not want to hurt her husband. She did not want to return to the past. Yet she could not immediately silence the memories that had suddenly returned.
Shubha (thinking): "Shaktil deserves honesty, affection, and respect. He has trusted me without knowing anything about my past. I cannot blame him for a situation he didn't create. Vishal has returned unexpectedly, but that doesn't mean I should allow the past to decide my future. I need to understand my own feelings before they cause pain to everyone around me."
The couple continued talking until late into the night.
There was no argument, no accusation, and no demand for explanations.
Eventually, they settled down to rest, with Shaktil giving his wife the space she needed.
Their first night had not begun as either of them might have imagined, but it had taught them something important: a marriage needed patience as much as affection.
9. A New Morning in Her Husband's House
The next morning, sunlight entered the bedroom through the curtains.
Shubha woke up before Shaktil and remained quiet for a few minutes. The previous day's events returned to her mind one after another: the wedding, Vishal's unexpected appearance, her husband's kindness, and the conversation they had shared during their first night.
She turned towards Shaktil, who was still asleep.
He had not questioned her further or demanded an explanation. His patience made her feel grateful, but it also increased her sense of responsibility towards him.
After getting ready, she wore a simple saree and went downstairs.
Mai was already in the kitchen, preparing breakfast.
Mai (Mother-in-law, 52): "Good morning, Shubha. Did you sleep well? I was going to let you rest a little longer because yesterday must have been exhausting. You don't have to wake up early every day just to impress us. Everyone takes time to adjust after marriage. Come and sit with me for a while. I'll show you where everything is kept, and we can have breakfast together before the others come downstairs."
Shubha: "Good morning, Mai. I slept reasonably well, thank you. I woke up early because I wasn't used to sleeping in a new place, and I thought I could help you with something. But I don't know your kitchen arrangements yet, so I didn't want to disturb anything. Please tell me what I can do. I want to become familiar with the house and learn everyone's routine without making things difficult for you."
Mai smiled.
Mai: "There's no need to be so formal with me, dear. If you want to help, you can, but you should also take care of yourself. Shaktil has spent years managing the shop and looking after his own responsibilities, so our routine can sometimes be busy. We don't expect you to understand everything on the first day. If something confuses you, ask me. There's no reason to feel shy."
Bapu entered the dining area a few minutes later.
Bapu (Father-in-law, 55): "Good morning, Shubha. I hope you're feeling comfortable here. Yesterday was a big day for all of us, and I know that the wedding celebrations can be tiring. Shaktil is a hardworking fellow, but he sometimes becomes so occupied with his shop that he forgets to take proper breaks. You may have to remind him to eat on time. At the same time, don't take every responsibility upon yourself. Both of you should look after each other."
Shubha: "Good morning, Bapu. I'll try to make sure we both maintain a good routine. I know Shaktil has many responsibilities, and I want to support him. But I also believe that a family should share its happiness and difficulties. I hope we can all speak openly and help one another whenever necessary."
Bapu nodded approvingly.
Soon, Shaktil came downstairs.
He looked at Shubha with a gentle smile, and she returned it. Although the previous night had been emotionally complicated, she wanted to give their relationship a fair chance.
Shaktil: "Good morning, Shubha. I hope you managed to get some rest. I was thinking about our conversation last night, and I want you to know that there's no need to worry about it. You don't have to explain anything before you're ready. We can take things slowly and understand each other as we go along. For now, let's have breakfast together and make today a relaxed day for both of us."
Shubha: "Good morning, Shaktil. Thank you for understanding me. I know we are still learning about each other, and I don't want a difficult moment to become a problem between us. I want to build a good relationship with you. If we continue to be patient and speak openly, I believe we'll gradually become more comfortable together."
They sat down for breakfast with Bapu and Mai.
The conversation turned to the textile shop, the wedding expenses, and the relatives who had attended the ceremony.
For a little while, Shubha felt that she could manage her new life.
Then the doorbell rang.
Mai got up to answer it.
A moment later, she returned with a familiar young man standing behind her.
It was Vishal.
Shubha's fingers tightened around her glass of water.
She had known that Vishal was Shaktil's close friend, but she had not expected him to visit so soon after the wedding.
Vishal entered the room, trying to maintain a natural expression.
Vishal: "Good morning, everyone. I hope I'm not disturbing your breakfast. I thought I'd come and spend some time with Shaktil before I get busy with my own arrangements. I have to take care of a few things after returning from abroad, but I didn't want to leave without visiting him properly. Congratulations once again to the newly married couple. I hope the wedding celebrations haven't left you both completely exhausted."
Shaktil: "Vishal! Come in, da. You're never a disturbance here. In fact, I was wondering when you'd come over. Sit down and have breakfast with us. You've travelled a long way, and we haven't had a proper chance to talk since the wedding. I want to hear about your work abroad, your plans, and how long you're thinking of staying in India this time."
Vishal sat down.
For a moment, his eyes moved towards Shubha.
She immediately looked away, pretending to be occupied with her breakfast.
Vishal: "I'll be here for a little while, depending on what happens with my work. I wanted to see you before making any other plans. You've got married now, and I suppose your days are going to be different. You'll have the shop, your family, and your wife to think about. I hope you don't forget your old friends completely. At least save a little time for us whenever possible."
Shaktil: "Don't worry, da. Marriage doesn't mean I'll stop being your friend. But yes, my responsibilities will increase, and I'll have to manage my time better. I also want to make sure Shubha feels comfortable in our home. She's just joined our family, and I don't want her to feel neglected because I'm busy with work. I'll try to balance everything properly."
Shubha listened quietly.
Every time Shaktil spoke affectionately about his marriage, she felt the weight of the secret she was carrying.
Vishal, meanwhile, was struggling to behave normally in front of his friend. He wanted to speak to Shubha, but he knew he had no right to demand a private conversation or disturb her new life.
Mai offered him some breakfast.
Mai: "Vishal, please eat something before you leave. Shaktil has told us many stories about your friendship. He says you've been there for him during difficult times, and we're happy that he has a friend like you. You should visit us whenever you're in town. Now that Shaktil is married, we hope you'll continue to be part of our family gatherings."
Vishal: "Thank you, Mai. That's very kind of you. Shaktil has always treated me like family, and I've always considered his happiness important. I'll certainly visit whenever I can. I hope I can get to know everyone better now that I'm back."
Shubha finally looked up.
Their eyes met for a second.
Vishal's expression softened, but Shubha quickly looked towards Mai.
Shaktil: "Shubha, this is Vishal, my closest friend. I know you've already met him at the wedding, but you didn't get a chance to speak properly. He's been abroad for work, so we haven't spent much time together recently. I hope both of you will feel comfortable around each other. Vishal has always been important to me, and I want my family and friends to get along well."
Shubha forced herself to speak calmly.
Shubha: "It's nice to see you again, Vishal. I hope your journey went well. Please have your breakfast. I'm sure you must have many things to take care of after returning from abroad."
Vishal: "Thank you, Shubha. The journey was fine. I hope you're settling in comfortably and that everyone is treating you well."
Shubha: "Yes, everyone has been kind to me. I'm still getting used to the new house and the daily routine, but I think that will take some time. I'm grateful that Shaktil and his parents have welcomed me so warmly."
The exchange was brief and polite.
To anyone else, they appeared to be two people meeting through a mutual friend.
Only they knew how much effort it took to speak those ordinary words.
After breakfast, Shaktil received a call from his textile shop. One of his employees needed clarification about a delivery, and Shaktil stepped into another room to handle the matter.
Bapu went outside to speak to a visitor, while Mai returned to the kitchen.
For the first time since Vishal had arrived, Shubha and Vishal found themselves alone in the living room.
Neither spoke immediately.
Vishal looked at her with years of unanswered questions in his eyes.
Vishal: "Shubha, I honestly don't know what to say. When I came to the wedding, I was expecting to congratulate my best friend and meet the woman he had chosen to marry. I never imagined that I would see you standing there as his bride. I was shocked, and I couldn't even ask you a single question. I have spent the last few days thinking about that moment. I know this isn't the place for me to question your decisions, but I need to understand one thing. Did you know that Shaktil was my friend before you agreed to marry him, or was this just as unexpected for you as it was for me?"
Shubha took a slow breath.
Shubha: "Vishal, I didn't know. My parents introduced me to Shaktil's family through an arranged-marriage proposal. I met him, spoke to him, and agreed because I believed he was a good person. Nobody told me that you were his closest friend, and I had never seen a photograph of you with him. I found out the truth only when I saw you at the wedding. You have to understand that I was shocked too. But by then, I was already dressed as his bride, and the wedding ceremony was about to begin. I couldn't stop everything and explain a past that nobody else knew about."
Vishal lowered his head.
Vishal: "I understand. I shouldn't blame you for something neither of us knew. But seeing you again brought back feelings I thought I had buried. I remembered the way we used to talk, the plans we made, and how everything ended between us. For a moment, I wanted to ask you why things had happened the way they did. Then I looked at Shaktil, and I realised that I couldn't make this about myself. He's my best friend, and he trusts me. I don't want to betray that trust, but I also don't know how to deal with what I'm feeling."
Shubha's expression became serious.
Shubha: "Vishal, listen to me carefully. I understand that seeing me again has been painful, and I'm not pretending that our past meant nothing. There was a time when you were important to me, and I cannot erase those memories simply because my life has changed. But we cannot allow our old relationship to become a wound in Shaktil's marriage. He has done nothing wrong. He has welcomed me into his life with trust, and he considers you a brother. If you care about me at all, please don't put me in a position where I have to choose between an old memory and the responsibilities I have accepted today."
Vishal remained silent.
Her words were painful, but he knew she was speaking honestly.
Shubha: "I'm not asking you to pretend that you have no feelings. You cannot control every emotion that comes into your mind. But you can control what you do with those feelings. Don't let your pain make you act in a way that could destroy your friendship with Shaktil or hurt his family. We both have a past, Vishal, but our past doesn't give us the right to interfere with the lives we've built now. You need to give yourself time to accept that."
Vishal: "You're right, Shubha. I think I was so shocked at the wedding that I didn't know how to separate my memories from the reality in front of me. I kept wondering whether I should talk to you, whether I should avoid you, or whether I should tell Shaktil something. But now I understand that acting on my confusion could make things worse. I don't want to hurt him, and I don't want to make your life difficult. I'll respect your marriage and keep our conversations appropriate. I need to learn to move forward instead of holding on to something that has already ended."
Shubha felt a small sense of relief.
Shubha: "That's all I'm asking, Vishal. You don't have to become a stranger overnight, and you don't have to pretend that we never knew each other. But we must understand our boundaries. Be Shaktil's friend as you always have been. Support him, share his happiness, and don't allow the past to come between you. If you feel upset, take some time for yourself instead of making an emotional decision. I genuinely want you to find peace and happiness in your own life."
Vishal nodded slowly.
Vishal: "I'll remember what you've said. I can't promise that every memory will disappear immediately, but I can promise that I won't deliberately create problems in your marriage. I'll respect Shaktil, and I'll respect you. I think I needed to hear this from you because I was allowing my emotions to control my thinking. Thank you for speaking honestly instead of pretending that you didn't recognize me."
Footsteps sounded in the corridor.
Shaktil returned to the living room, smiling as he put his phone away.
Shaktil: "Sorry, da. The shop called about a delivery, and I had to clear up a small issue. What were you both talking about? I hope you weren't getting bored sitting here. Vishal, if you have time, stay for lunch. We can talk properly after I've finished a few things."
Shubha and Vishal exchanged one brief glance.
Vishal: "We were just talking about how difficult it can be to settle into a new routine after a big change in life. I was telling Shubha that she should take her time adjusting to the family. Don't worry, da. I wasn't planning to leave immediately. I'll stay a little longer if I'm not disturbing you."
Shaktil smiled, completely unaware of the emotional conversation that had taken place.
Shaktil: "You're never a disturbance, Vishal. You're family to me. I hope you both get along well, because I want the people closest to me to feel comfortable around one another."
Shubha lowered her eyes.
She wanted to believe that the past could remain where it belonged.
But she knew that seeing Vishal again had awakened feelings and questions she would have to face honestly.
For now, she had made her decision.
She would protect her marriage, respect her husband, and refuse to let an unexpected reunion dictate her future.
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