Page 227 of One Hellish Love

Rudra stood, ignoring her concerns.

“Every pain will vanish the moment we marry.”

He extended his hand toward her, a small smile tugging at his lips. Kashish, despite the heaviness in her heart, smiled weakly and placed her hand in his. Together, they walked toward the altar to complete the wedding rituals that would bind them forever.

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The priests chanted the mantras as Rudra and Kashish sat before the holy fire, their hands entwined as they slowly performed each ritual, binding their hearts and souls to one another. Every word, every vow felt sacred, marking the beginning of a lifetime together. When Rudra took a pinch of Sindoor and filled her forehead partition, it was the most profound moment of Kashish’s life. As he circled his arm aroundher neck to tie the Mangalsutra, he whispered those three magical words in her ear once again. He had said them to her countless times before, but now, with their marriage as the backdrop, it carried a weight that made her heart race.

Soon, it was time for the pheras. With each step around the sacred fire, Rudra listened intently to the priest’s instructions, absorbing the promises they were making to each other. The seven circles completed, and they were finally declared husband and wife.

The newly-wed couple sought the blessings of Shekhar and Anjali, and as soon as they were done, Kashish threw herself into Rudra’s arms who hugged her back just as fiercely, kissing her forehead with the utmost tenderness.

Anjali cleared her throat, bringing them back to reality.

“Congratulations! May God continue to bless you both.”

She fed them sweets as part of the post-wedding tradition.

Shekhar, not one to be left out, interrupted with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“Anjali, don’t forget to give them the other blessing.”

“What other blessing?” Anjali asked, looking genuinely confused.

Shekhar grinned.

“To give the Raheja family the tiniest family member soon.”

Kashish’s eyes widened in shock while Rudra couldn’t help but smirk, replying with his usual cheeky flair.

“We won’t steal that honor from you two. You deserve to give us that news first.”

Anjali blushed furiously, but Rudra’s comment didn’t deter Shekhar from teasing further.

“Does that mean we should start planning for a baby soon? It’s been more than a year since we married.” He winked playfully, earning a sharp pinch from Anjali.

“Enough about us!” Anjali exclaimed, slightly embarrassed. “This day is about them. We should head back to the bungalow. There are still so many things left to do. Come on.”

They all retreated to the house, and after completing Kashish and Rudra’s Grihapravesh—the official welcoming of a bride and groom the two left the newly married couple to enjoy their privacy.

Once Shekhar and Anjali’s car left the bungalow, Kashish’s heart skipped a beat as she locked eyes with Rudra. He was her husband now—really, truly hers. The thought stirred desires deep within her heart. But her thoughts were cut short when she suddenly found herself swept into Rudra’s arms.

“Rudra!” she protested. “You’re hurt.”

He didn’t care to reply, but just carried her toward their room. Their bedroom had been adorned with candles and flowers. Kashish was awe-struck by the decorations and silently thanked Anjali and Shekhar for their efforts. Gently, Rudra laid her down on the bed and immediately placed a soft kiss on her lips. She instinctively pressed her hands against the back of his head, pulling him closer, but he winced in pain.

“Sorry… does it hurt?” she asked, concerned.

Rudra nodded slightly.

“A little.”

Kashish took his wrist, guiding him to sit beside her.

“How did you get injured? Did you crash?”

“The brakes failed,” he explained, wincing as he remembered the experience. “That’s why the car was locked in the garage. I drove recklessly when I realized the brakes were gone. Luckily, I managed to veer into a construction site to avoid a major accident.”

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