A rush of sensations coursed through me.
I tightened my hold slightly as she climbed the steps. Her skin was warm, slightly damp.
“You look like a goddess,” I whispered, but she said nothing.
With help from the Bhabhi-sas, she sat beside me. As she settled, I noticed her fingers tracing her bangles.
The priest resumed chanting, guiding her through her aahutis.
“With the beginning of the world, our gods established the foundations of a sacred relationship, where two souls unite forever,” he said.“Our strength does not lie in the body, but in unity. These beings, as one, forge together, devoting their lives to each other and enjoying the riches of life, finally to journey toward heaven side by side.”
I swallowed hard, staring at her veiled face. I could sense her nervousness.
With thousands of eyes upon us, as I gently took her hand, she stiffened, then relaxed.
“It’s okay, love,” I murmured near her ear.“I’m here.”
She nodded faintly.
“Ab var aur vadhu saptapadi ke liye khade ho jaayein,”“The groom and the bride are now requested to stand for the saptapadi62.” the priest instructed.
I stood and reached for her, seeing her struggle with all the weight on her. I held her hand and lifted her gently.
“Are you okay?” I asked.
“Ji,” she replied; her voice was impossibly sweet.
“For the first four steps, the groom will lead,” the priest announced.
I held her hand and stepped forward. Her palm was sweaty. The fire blazed tall, and I realised she must’ve been scared.
“Suman,” I asked softly,“are you afraid of the fire?”
She didn’t answer, only tightened her grip and stepped closer.
Smiling, I took every step carefully and repeated every word clearly after the priest.
I looked around at the people raining flower petals upon us, showering us with love and blessings.
Finally, it happened. I was becoming hers with every step, and she, mine. Finally, Sumanika and Agastya were getting married.
“Now the bride will lead and take the final three vows,” the priest said.
She stepped ahead, but stumbled slightly.
I steadied her, teasing softly,“Should I carry you?”
“Beyond your capabilities,” she whispered.“Too heavy.”
My jaw clenched as I could sense a challenge hidden beneath those words.
She completed the remaining rounds, repeating each promise. The mandap bloomed with petals. I saw my brothers wiping tears. Rudraja squealed from Rani-maa Abhishree’s arms.
“Now you both may take your seats,” the priest announced.“It’s time for kanyadaan63.”
I saw her parents step forward when she spoke firmly,“I want King Abhinandan and Queen Trisha to do the ritual.”
They stepped ahead.
