Chapter 20

                                    

                                          
I barely took in my surroundings, throughout the journey. My mind was a jumbled mess, everything was happening so fast that I hardly had time to come to terms with what was going on. 
Last night was the most exposed I've ever been, and I despise myself for it. I had never acted the way I did until yesterday, my desperation for happiness turned me into a crying mess in front of a man who doesn't give a fuck about this marriage. 
I have pondered upon all sorts of outcomes, scraping off all my plans and dreams I ever had. I have to force myself every second to accept this new surprise journey of mine. All these thoughts alone make my hands clammy, it's scary, this uncertainty. 
I close my eyes, taking in a deep breath. It is, what it is. And there's no escape. Period. And why am I even feeling depressed at all? Love was never something  I anticipated. I can't expect what I can't reciprocate. The only thing I merely desired was loyalty and respect. 
I glance over at Abhiraj, his sole focus is on the road, fists clenching tightly around the steering wheel, and as usual his hard face on. It's just strange how we don't know a single thing about each other but are made to spend our lives together as husband and wife.
Giving up on my melancholy thoughts at last, I glance out of the window and observe how black it is outside—it might be two in the morning. It was already three hours ago when Ivaan went to sleep. 
"We are almost there. My relatives are also there since Dadi's health is constantly detoroiting. I hope you'll be able to handle the situation." He says while pulling in a street barely lightened with street lights. It seems as if it's leading towards an open area. 
I stare into his eyes through the rearview mirror. My anxieties were already wrapping themselves up in knots as my stomach twisted uncontrollably. How would they react to seeing me as their Abhiraj's wife? Will they accept me? Will they ridicule or mock me, as everyone I encounter does? I give a cautious nod.
As we pull into the driveway, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation filling me. The night has placed a spooky mist over the surroundings, I am hardly able to make out the presence around the place. 
I step out of the car cradling  Ivaan in my arms while Abhiraj unloads the bags handling them over to the servants.
And as my feet touch the ground, I look up at the haveli standing tall before me. Its grandeur is truly awe-inspiring. The Haveli has a magnificent structure, with intricately carved arches and balconies adorned with delicate jharokhas. The moonlight is dancing upon the walls, casting shadows that seem to whisper secrets of the past. 
The haveli stands as a testament to the rich history of Abhiraj's family.
"This is my Great-grandfather's hard work. "
I look at him, his face is slightly rosy from the cold air deceiving his intimidating aura in the minimal lighting. 
"Now who all live in here?" I murmur softly.
" My grandparents. Dada ji controls the entire village and a few others, which is why they never came with us. He did not have the heart to leave the politics and his people." He says, briefly glancing at my face.
"Ohhh," I say awkwardly. I'mma little weak in casual talks and responses. Let's say my ability to hold exciting talks has been severely impaired due to my introvertness if that's even a word.
"Come let's go in. It's getting cold out here." He points out getting a hint of my situation. On cue, a gust of find batters against me. 
"You're already sick from the entire trip, so let me hold Ivaan." Even before I could object, Abhiraj takes Ivaan from my arms. Though he is right, my body is completely drained.