The accidental vows

Chapter 6: New Beginnings

Janvi's POV

I woke up early in the morning. As I slowly opened my eyes, I found myself in a different room. The memories of last night’s events flooded back into my mind — I was now married to Raj, the love of my life. But I was unsure how to behave around him or what to expect.

My eyes wandered around the room and landed on him. Raj was sleeping uncomfortably on the couch, his head resting in an awkward position. I knew his neck would hurt if he stayed like that any longer. Quietly, I got out of bed, picked up the blanket that had slipped onto the floor, and carefully placed it over him. I also took a pillow and gently slid it under his head to make him more comfortable.

Just as I was about to leave, his hand unexpectedly wrapped around my waist, pulling me into a tight embrace. My heart skipped a beat. I tried to free myself, but he murmured, “Please… let me hold you and sleep.”

I was frozen, nervous, and confused. After a few moments, Raj opened his eyes and realized it was me. His expression changed instantly, and he pushed me away.

“Don’t come near me, understand?” he said coldly.

His words pierced my heart, but I reminded myself that he was still in love with Priya. He had probably mistaken me for her in his sleep.

Feeling shattered, I went inside the washroom. Tears began streaming down my face. I washed my face, composed myself, and then headed downstairs.

When I reached the living room, I saw Mom giving instructions to the staff about breakfast. As soon as she saw me, she walked up to me and hugged me warmly.

“Good morning, beta. Did you sleep well?” she asked.

“Good morning, Mom. Yes, I slept well,” I replied, forcing a smile.

I then mentioned that I didn’t have any clothes to wear. She smiled and assured me, “Don’t worry, beta. Everything has been taken care of. Your mom is bringing your belongings. But as today is your first day in our house, please wear this saree. Many guests are coming for your mooh dikhayi around 11 AM.”

I nodded and offered to help in the kitchen, but she refused, “No, my child. You don’t have to do anything today. Tomorrow will be your pehli rasoi, and you can cook for everyone then.”

I agreed and went upstairs. Thankfully, Raj wasn’t in the room. I sighed in relief, then went to the washroom, took a shower, and came out feeling refreshed.

I saw the beautiful saree Mom had given me — a soft pink saree with a heavy border, paired with a backless blouse, necklace, long jhumkas, and matching bangles. I wore the saree, sat at the dressing table, applied light makeup, wore my jewelry, put on a pink bindi, and filled my maang with sindoor.

Just then, my mom arrived with all my belongings. Seeing me fully dressed as a bride, she became emotional and hugged me tightly.

“I am so proud of you, my baby. You’ve done so much for us. Give Raj some time, beta. He’s a good and responsible boy, and I know he will take good care of you. You’re such a sweetheart; he won’t be able to resist your charm,” she said, making me blush. I hugged her back to hide my face.

We went downstairs, where everyone was already gathered. Raj was there too, and when his eyes landed on me, there was a strange look in his gaze. I quickly diverted my eyes, feeling nervous.

Abhi, being his usual playful self, teased, “Wow, hey beautiful! What have you done to our Janvi? You’re looking so beautiful today.”

His mom scolded him lightly, “Don’t tease my daughter.”

We all moved to the dining table for breakfast. Mom told me to sit beside Raj. I hesitated for a moment, remembering the morning incident, and slightly moved my chair away from him.

Everyone started eating, but I was full after only a few bites. Mom noticed and asked, “Janvi beta, what’s wrong? You’ve hardly eaten anything.”

“That’s all I can eat, Mom,” I replied.

She frowned. “You eat less than a 5-year-old child. Raj, from now on, it’s your responsibility to make sure Janvi eats properly, okay?”

Raj looked at me, then picked up a spoonful of poha and gently held it near my mouth. I hesitated, but after a moment, I opened my mouth and took the bite.

Abhi, never missing a chance to tease, said, “Now, Janvi bhabhi will feed bhai too!”

Everyone joined in, but Raj quickly excused himself, saying he was full, and left for upstairs. I felt a pang in my heart, seeing how he distanced himself.

Later, Dad and Uncle went to the study room, while Mom and Aunty started planning for shopping after the mooh dikhayi.

Soon, all the guests arrived for the ceremony. Mom called Raj and me to the drawing room. We both sat together on the sofa as the function began. Everyone gave us gifts, blessings, and showered their love on us. The aunties didn’t miss the chance to tease Raj, which made me blush uncontrollably. My face turned as red as a tomato.

Once the function ended and the guests left, Raj immediately went upstairs. I felt hurt, wishing he could have sat with me for a while.

Mom and Aunty then asked me to change into something more comfortable and take some rest before we headed out for shopping.