~ The universe always replaces what exits your life with something bigger and better. Don't be stuck holding onto the past and resisting change. Welcome new energy. Let go of what needs to be removed. There are great blessings in surrendering and allowing. ~

~~~

The next morning, golden sunlight bathed the room in a soft glow. Shivansh stirred first, his body awakening to a pleasant warmth nestled against him. His gaze drifted downward, only to realize that Aaradhya was curled up against his chest, their legs intertwined. Her face was peaceful in sleep, her delicate features bathed in the morning light.

A lazy smirk tugged at his lips. This was unexpected, but... oddly comfortable.

As Aaradhya shifted slightly, awareness seeped into her consciousness. The moment she realized their proximity, her eyes widened, and she scrambled back, her face burning. "I-I... It wasn't intentional!"

Shivansh chuckled, stretching slightly. "I never said it was."

Avoiding his amused gaze, she quickly escaped to freshen up. After getting ready, she made her way downstairs to help with breakfast, only for Meera to gently stop her. 

Aaradhya shook her head. "Maa, I want to help."

During breakfast, Shivansh arrived dressed for the office, earning a round of scolding. "Urgent work," he assured. "I'll be back soon."

The younger ones pounced. "Honeymoon plans, Bhaiya?" Vihaan smirked.

Aaradhya turned crimson, and the teasing continued until Meera rescued her. "They'll go when they want to," she said with a knowing smile.

After breakfast, Meera instructed, "Give your Bhabhi a tour of the house."

Excited, the younger ones guided Aaradhya through the sprawling estate—lavish halls, a grand library, a home theatre, gardens, and even a pool—turning the tour into playful chaos, making sure she felt at home.

~

After Shivansh and Ishaan left for the office, Avni, Vihaan, Aarav, Abhir, and Abhira took it upon themselves to show Aaradhya around the Rajvansh estate. The grand home, or rather, the castle-like mansion, which was breathtaking. The corridors stretched endlessly, adorned with intricate artwork and family portraits that told the tale of generations past.

As they walked through the halls, Aaradhya's gaze lingered on the portraits, her mind involuntarily drifting to her own past. The cold, empty hallways of her parents' house flashed in her memory—walls that held no warmth, no love, no sense of belonging. Her heart clenched slightly, but before she could dwell on it, Avni's voice brought her back to the present.

"Aadhya, you seem lost. Admiring our royal heritage?" Avni teased with a wink.

Aaradhya offered a small smile. "It's a beautiful home."

"Home? No, no," Aarav interjected dramatically. "This is not just a home, Bhabhi. This is the 'Rajvansh Fort' where we, the mighty warriors, reign!"

"And where you, the so-called warriors, run for cover when Dadu or Bade papa gets angry," Abhira smirked.

The group burst into laughter as Vihaan led them toward the different sections of the house. Each room seemed to have its own charm, from the lavishly decorated sitting areas to the breathtaking indoor garden that bloomed with vibrant flowers. Aaradhya was taking everything in, amazed by how every space seemed to hold memories of the family.

When they reached the music room, Avni playfully nudged Aaradhya. "Do you play any instrument?"

Aaradhya shook her head. "No, but I love listening to music."

"Ah, that means next time, we'll put on a private concert just for you!" Vihaan declared proudly. "I play the guitar, Aarav plays the keyboard, Abhir thinks he can sing—"

"I can sing," Abhir interrupted, crossing his arms.

"We'll let her decide that later," Avni said with a mischievous grin, making Aaradhya chuckle.

As they moved forward, Aarav casually asked, "So, Bhabhi, what do you do? We don't know much about your work yet."

Aaradhya hesitated for a moment before answering, "I'm an interior designer."

A beat of silence was followed by Avni's sudden squeal. "Oh my God! You're kidding! Aadhya, I'm an interior designer too!"

Aaradhya blinked in surprise as Avni practically jumped in excitement. "Really?"

"Yes! And now, I finally have someone to discuss my creative frustrations with!" Avni exclaimed dramatically. "Do you have any specialties? Modern, classic, contemporary? What's your design style?"

Aaradhya smiled slightly, her initial hesitation fading in the face of Avni's enthusiasm. "I love blending modern aesthetics with traditional elements. It gives spaces more depth and character."

"Finally! Someone who understands!" Avni declared, throwing her hands in the air. "Aadhya, we are going to have the best brainstorming sessions ever. I already have so many ideas I need to discuss with you!"

"Wait, wait, wait!" Aarav interrupted. "So, does this mean our home is going to be redesigned? Because if so, I want my room to have a gaming setup—"

"Absolutely not!" Meera's voice interrupted from behind them, making everyone jump. She had been silently observing them with a smile. "Aadhya has just come into our family. Let her settle first before you all bombard her with demands."

Avni playfully shaking her head disappointed, said. "Fine, but soon, we are going to discuss design ideas."

Aaradhya gave a small nod, feeling a strange warmth in her heart. She had never imagined a discussion about her profession would turn into such an animated and heartwarming moment.

After a while, they reached the library—their final stop. As the massive doors opened, Aaradhya's eyes widened. The room was magnificent, shelves stretching from floor to ceiling, filled with thousands of books.

"This is heaven," she whispered in awe.

"I knew you'd love it," Avni grinned. "Vihaan noticed you eyeing the bookshelves in the sitting area, so we saved the best for last."

"Bhabhi, do you like reading?" Abhir asked curiously.

Aaradhya nodded. "I love books."

"See? I told you!" Vihaan said triumphantly. "We officially have another bookworm in the family."

"And that means you and I are going to have long book discussions, Bhabhi," Abhira added with a rare excited glint in her eyes. "You have to tell me your favorite genre."

Aaradhya let out a soft chuckle. "I like classics and contemporary fiction."

"Perfect!" Abhira beamed. "I'm giving you my book recommendations soon."

Standing there, surrounded by her new family, Aaradhya felt something settle within her—a sense of belonging that she had never truly known before. This wasn't just a house; it was a home, and for the first time in her life, she felt like she was truly a part of it.

After some time, the others retreated to their rooms, mumbling something about college assignments. Soon, only Avni and Aaradhya were left. As they glanced at the time, they realized it was almost lunchtime. Aaradhya expressed her desire to cook something, and Avni, ever eager, decided to accompany her. After asking Meera and Kavita for permission, they were met with a warm response.

"Aadhya, Avni, you can cook whenever you want, beta. This is your home too," Meera assured both with a smile.

Feeling a newfound ease, Aaradhya and Avni made their way to the kitchen. As they started preparing the meal, Avni, with her extroverted nature, effortlessly filled the space with chatter. Aaradhya, though usually reserved, found herself responding more comfortably than she had expected.

By the time they finished making several dishes, Aaradhya had unknowingly let down her walls, laughing and arguing with Avni. It was a peaceful sight, and anyone who passed by the kitchen couldn't help but smile at the warmth radiating from the two women.

As Shivansh and Ishaan returned home, exhausted from their meeting, they found themselves drawn toward the kitchen. Meera stood nearby, smiling as she watched her two daughters-in-law playfully bickering over something trivial about the food.

As they reached the kitchen entrance, they saw Aaradhya standing near the door, a gentle glow on her face as she laughed at something Avni had said. It was a sight neither Shivansh nor Ishaan had expected. Aaradhya—reserved, quiet Aaradhya—was smiling freely, at ease in her new home.

Meera turned to them with a soft whisper, her eyes shining with warmth. "They must have become best friends by now. It makes me so happy to see them bond like this."

Shivansh's gaze lingered on Aaradhya, a faint smile curving his lips. Ishaan nudged him slightly before they both quietly stepped away, not wanting to break the beautiful moment unfolding before them.

After some time, everyone gathered at the dining table, having all taken leave from their respective work to enjoy the wedding celebrations. Throughout the meal, Aaradhya found herself immersed in conversation, feeling truly included.

~

The previous days had been a whirlwind of emotions. Aaradhya had successfully completed her pehli rasoi, earning the family's love and appreciation, but before they could properly celebrate the moment, the reception preparations had taken over and then her pag phera happened. Today, with everything settled, the family finally had the time to cherish and acknowledge her efforts.

After lunch, as Aaradhya sat quietly beside Shivansh in their room, with her laptop trying to do some work, there was a knock on the door.

Shivansh opened it to find his grandparents, Suryavardhan and Sushma, standing there with soft smiles.

"Can we come in, beta?" Sushma asked gently.

"Of course, Dadi," Shivansh said, stepping aside.

Aaradhya quickly stood up, but Sushma shook her head. "No need to stand, Aadhya beta. Sit."

Once they all settled in, Suryavardhan cleared his throat. "From the past few days, we were busy with reception and then you had gone to your home for pag phera that we couldn't properly celebrate your pehli rasoi." His eyes softened as he looked at her. "But today, we will."

She looked at them in confusion, Sushma smiled, reaching for a velvet box. "This is for you, beta."

Aaradhya hesitated before opening it, revealing a stunning gold kangan with intricate engravings.

"This has been in our family for generations," Sushma explained. "It is given to the bahu who upholds the family's traditions and values. that day, you didn't just cook for us; you made us feel the love and warmth of your presence."

Aaradhya swallowed hard, overwhelmed. "I... I don't know what to say," she whispered.

"You don't need to say anything," Suryavardhan said, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "Just wear it with pride. You are a Rajvansh now."

Before Aaradhya could respond, another knock echoed.

Shivansh opened the door again, and this time, his parents—Vardaan and Meera—entered with his uncle and aunt, Nishant and Kavita, all holding gifts.

"We hope we aren't interrupting," Meera said warmly.

"Not at all," Sushma chuckled. "It looks like we all had the same idea."

Meera stepped forward, sitting beside Aaradhya with a loving smile. "Beta, We couldn't do this earlier, but we won't delay any longer."

She handed Aaradhya a delicate silk saree. "This was my first saree after marriage, and now, I want you to have it."

Aaradhya hesitated, touching the fabric with awe. "Maa..." she whispered, the word slipping effortlessly from her lips.

Meera cupped her cheek, eyes shining. "You deserve every happiness, beta."

Vardaan chuckled and handed Aaradhya a leather-bound journal. "For your designs," he said. "Rajvansh women make their mark in this world, and so will you."

Nishant handed her a beautiful antique fountain pen. "For every thought, every design, every dream you put on paper."

"And this," Kavita added, placing a small crystal lotus in her hands, "symbolizes resilience and beauty—both of which define you."

Aaradhya held their gifts close, feeling a deep warmth in her heart. But before the moment could turn too emotional, the sound of loud footsteps echoed through the hallway.

"A secret meeting without us?" Vihaan's dramatic voice rang through.

Within seconds, the younger Rajvansh family members burst into the room.

"Not fair! You all are giving Bhabhi gifts without us?" Aarav accused, crossing his arms.

"Unacceptable!" Abhir shook his head.

Aaradhya looked at them, slightly startled but secretly amused.

Avni and Ishaan smiled. "Well, we have gifts too!" She handed Aaradhya a wrapped box. "Open it!"

Aaradhya unwrapped it carefully, revealing a set of high-quality sketching pencils and color markers.

"For your designs," Avni declared. "Now you have no excuse not to work with me!"

Aaradhya smiled softly. "I'd love that."

Vihaan handed her a small box. Inside was a keychain with her initials.

"Now, you can never lose your keys," he smirked. "Like how Aarav loses it every second day"

"I do not" Aarav interjected accusingly and gave her a bracelet with her name on it, it was pretty cute.

"Yes, you do," Abhira deadpanned, handing Aaradhya a book. "I noticed you love reading. This is one of my favorites."

Aaradhya looked at the title—Pride and Prejudice—and glanced at Abhira, who shyly looked away.

Abhir stepped forward. "And this... is a playlist." He handed her a flash drive. "Curated by me. And no, you're not allowed to criticize my music taste."

Aaradhya laughed softly. "I'll give it a chance."

Everyone laughed with her, filling the room with warmth and love.

As the night continued, Aaradhya looked around, her heart full. This wasn't just a family—this was a home.

Her home.

~~~