3 Love Behind the Nuptial Knot

7/31/2019 3 Love Behind the Nuptial Knot

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When the door opened it was her DAD who was standing in front of her , with folded hands !Saro

Aunty havent come today , her dad said in a stern voice. Trying to manage the situation, Abi slowly

said err..Daddy.I did not find an auto when it began rainingthats why I .. before she

could finish her sentence, her dad interrupted And thats why you came through the back door

right?! in a sarcastic tone !!

Abhi , giving a clumsy look put down her head and slipped into her room to change. Oh hooo I

should have thought of a better answer she was telling to herself while letting her long hair loose to

dry..

Abhi., hearing her dads call, she shouted coming dad! and went to the living room. There

,Mr.Subramanian was sitting with a small note in his hand. Wondering what it was, she went and sat

beside him. Without taking his eyes from the note, he said Abhi ma, Pushpa aunty had called me in

the morning their son has arrived from states yesterday it seems. They will be coming to see you this

Friday! When is your final exams?

Now it was easy for Abhi to realize why her dad was so seriously looking into that small note(Its her

horoscope !!Of course)J Replying to her dad, she slowly asked him dad.

what is it ma?he said taking his eyes from the note. Dad, I thought of doing my PG before my

marriage Isnt it too ..early to get engaged before exams? thinking for a moment her dad looked at

her and replied Dear, Its not because I want you to get married early. They are having a good name in

the society .and they are very interested in this marriage.Its not often you come across good alliances,

you know!.Seeing her sitting silently he continued However if you are not willing, I wont force you ,

what do you say?

Nodding her head,( thats how we communicate our acceptance often la ;) )she came to her room!

Feeling happy about it , her dad smiled at her and continued his work.

Pushpa Aunty- A name that Abhinaya almost forgot in the past three months! But she havent forgotten

Abhi!! ( a story without flash back is quite boring la) ;) three months before J.

It was a very pompous wedding taking place in Coimbatore. Since Abhis cousin was the bride ,she took

up many responsibilities in the marriage. Dressed in a maroon silk saree and with those Golden

ornaments,she almost looking like a bride herself! Her long tresses plaited with jasmine ,warm smile

and attractive features was admired by many eyes!!. While she was near the entrance giving the

thamboolam to the guests , a commotion was heard near the gate.

She was the first one to notice it..

When she swiftly moved to the entrance , she found an elderly person fallen in the floor, holding his

chest in pain. It was so obvious that he was losing his consciousness and was having a heart attack !!


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Before long a crowd gathered around him and one of them shouted turning to the otherside Call

Pushpa Ma Its her husband Sekaran who has fainted here!!. While some of them went to fetch a

auto, Abhi was the first to sense the seriousness of the issue and immediately took out the emergency

tablet (patients who had suffered from heart attacks earlier are advised to keep one such tablet alwayswith them .It is a life saving tablet which is to be placed under the tongue during heart attack

immediately within one hour!!)Abhi used to carry it with her for her father who was a heart patient.

She quickly placed it in his mouth..Meanwhile the auto had come and Sekaran was rushed to the

Hospital.

Heaving a sigh of relief ,Abhi turned back to the marriage hall .

Days later she received a call from her cousin Revathi saying that Sekaran was saved in the right time

and Pushpa aunty was so moved by her quick act.

Hey Abhi, I must also thank you personally ma, Puspa aunty is a very good friend of my mother and we

are known to each other for a long time.i really appreciate you for your presence if mind, thank you

dear.

Oh come on Revathi, it was my pleasure to have helped them, then how is your husband? I thought you

wont have time to keep in touch with me after marriage , hahahasaid Abhi. Thus their conversation

ended and Abhis aunt soon spoke to Abhis father about her marriage proposal.

They were about to come and see Abhi with their son the very next week. However a day before the

ceremony , Subramanian received a call that their son had to go to states immediately and will be back

soon.

And here, three months have rolled on and Abhi had almost forgot this!!

Two more Days were left for the Friday and Abhi was quite restless.the Grief of parting her Dad,

her home,. her wish to pursue with higher studies, the anxiety of the new environment that she

is going to be a part of all were worrying her so much!

But like every other girl of her age, Abhi also wondered how her Life partner is going to be!!

Being a rare combination of good nature and attractive feature, She always won the hearts of all. When

many of her friends were stung by the love bee, She did not give in so easily. She believed inLOVE

AFTER TYING THE NUPTIALKNOT

How is he going to be with me? With he love me with all his heart as I am ready to ? she questioned

herself !!


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The Calender showed that it was Friday and the Cook Saro decorated Abhi in the evening. Since she

was motherless from her childhood, Saro brought her up with care and affection. The Car entered the

Gates of Subramanians house at 5:30 pm and Pushpas Family was warmly welcomed.

Abhi , who was pretty looked gorgeous in a green samudhrika Saree ( It suited her very wellmore than

MEERA JASMINE! J) .Needless to say, she almost mesmerized the guests by her stunning looks! She entered the hall with a

tray of coffee cups and neared the guests.

Though she appeared quite casual, her mind was so disturbed.she tried so much to appear normal

and thought If only that phone call hadnt come!!! How nice it would have been!!!!

Just an hour before their Arrival..

Abhis house was all getting busy for that evening. It was when Abhi was dressing herself , she

heard the landline ringing in the hall. Since no one answered it for three rings, she guessed that no one

were around and rushed to attend .

When she picked up the receiver ,

Hello, is it Mr. Subramaniams House? , a young mans husky voice questioned her. Thinking that

it was someone , she replied Yes, Please hold on till I call him.

On the other end : hey wait wait ! is it Abhinaya speaking?

Abhi: yes, May I know who is this?

After remaining silent for a second, he said .. I am Sridhar and .I am the one who is going to visit

you today!.

Hearing his words, she almost got freezed ;) The voice that was destined to fill her life with joy has

reached her ears !!! her love for that unseen face bloomed in her heart J

Unable to give him any reply she stood still for a moment. ONLY FOR A MOMENT!!

hello , are you there on the line?? he called out..

Abhi: uhh ya yes! ( what else she could say ? J)

Sridhar: Listen I dont have much time to speak . And dont dream of anything! I am not interested inthis wedding. Give any reason of your choice to your father and stop this at any cost.

But I request you .. dont let our parents know that I am insisting you to do this!

This is more than enough to shatter the dreams of Abhi who stood perplexed ,wondering what was

happening. Her excitement was pathetically short-lived L.


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Sridhar: hey , Did you hear me? Say something...okay my mom is coming here I will cut the

call dont forget. Deny me at any cost..dont let this happen... Itrust you

Before she could keep the receiver down, tear fell down symbolizing her broken heart. She dont know

how she walked to her room.

Too many questions blocked her mind!

How will I put the blame on me and face my father?

Wont he suspect me of loving someone else ?

Within half an hour they will reach here, and I am not going to behave as they expect!!!

Besides all, the one whom I yearned to meet all these days drowned my faith!!

Seeing Saro nearing her with jasmine flowers in her hand ,She turned back and wiped her tears

Now

She walked towards them giving coffee, one by one she gave and finally with batted breath she neared

Sridhar dressed up so manly in sky blue shirt and dark pants.

The way he carried himself, his sharp mesmerizing eyes,trimmed mustache, smiling lips( without

nicotine stains J )all disturbed her and suddenly her conscience shouted at her

Hey Abhi, Dont you have any self respect? He is the one who spoke with you so harshly. And Now , you

are admiring him as if he has come here whole heartedly!

Hurted inside, she gave him the coffee.

He must really be having a reason for his denial it seems. He just glanced at her for name sake. If he was

really interested he would have surely been one among his family who were gazing at her!!

As she walked back, she could clearly hear Pushpa aunty saying we are so pleased. Ask her opinion so

that we will fix the marriage today itself

Subramaniam went to her room and repeated pushpas words to his daughter. Seeing the happiness in

her dear dads face, She couldnt make up her mind!

Her love towards the man, who doesnt even reciprocate didnt allow her to think a lot. oh God! What

do I do now?? her poor mind was confused.

Dont forget, you should not blame me to our parents.. his voice ringed in her ears! All this pressure

was making her feel dizzy.


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Tears were ready to fall down her cheeks the very next second.

After closing her eyes for a moment , she saw her dad and said Dad, I ACCEPT

Marriage is not just a phase of life, that carries us from our home to somewhere else, that teaches us

how to cook and clean, that offers us an opportunity to socialize with a person of our choice!

Its ,of course , a delightful commitment between two, their families, their soceities.:) Its capable of

turning our lives into a better, happier one only when the nuptial knot is tied and accepted willingly!

Abhi , who was expecting so much was deceived and had to accept with pain in her heart.

The day of marriage was near the corner and both families were happily engaged in the festive

preparations. The way in which parents organize their childrens wedding is just not to boast but to

express their happiness. Admist the pain of parting their loved little birds that are about to fly away

from the nest, they are proud that they are going to scale the skies! Subramaniam was no exception J

He did his best to make it a grand wedding. He took great care that everything, feast, ornaments, gifts,

traditional outfits and arrangements were fine and flawless. What wouldnt a loving dad do? J

However being the bride, Abhi was not feeling complete because of her sorrow. She felt something was

missing . Yes! She couldnt forget the stern look on Sridhars face when her dad conveyed her

acceptance to them. He became tensed and his disappointment was so apparently expressed. Before

leaving their house, he turned back at her and stared!!How hurting it was!

And from then he gave some excuses for not being present in shopping, giving invitations and so on.

Being a busy business man no one doubted his negligence. All but not Abhinaya who bore this with a

heavy heart.

And Today the Day of Marriage has arrived. From early morning all customs were carried on and

finally Abhinaya found herself sitting beside Sridhar. Without anyone noticing, she got the glimpse of

his

Expression-less face. He is grim looking and obeyed the priest who asked him to repeat his mantras.

Before long , Sridhar tied the Nuptial knot around her neck and they became man and wife! JFrom that

momemt they are no induviduals. They are bonded to each other and are destined to share and care foreach other .Abhi watched her Dads contentment in his face. She thought to herself this is enough

dad Iam ready to bear anything to make this joy stay in you forever!

After being blessed by all elders they had lunch and went to temple.


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Special poojas were done on behalf of this young couple and Sridhar was asked to keep kunkum on her

forehead. After a long while abhi picked up her guts to look at him . But Alas, He showed no love for

her. It was so apparent in his eyes. Only a loving heart can see the presence and absence of love in their

eyes. Abhi felt it !!

It was a fascinating beach house with a big garden behind it. The gates opened for them to enter and

Abhi stepped inside with Sridhar.

When they arrived to home, she could clearly hear many speaking what a lovely pair they both make!

Many would have cast their eyes on them! Abhis naturally rose cheeks blushed on listening to it.

It was turning dark and everyone left the home leaving them alone. Pushpa who was the last to go came

near abhi . Abhi, you are so special to us. You wont find it difficult to get along here. I see you as My

daughter and will treat you so forever. Sridhar is very responsible and a caring person.Dont think that I

am praising my son but you will soon find this out yourself! I am happy that I have found the right

match for my son ! take care dear. We are leaving to our house in Coimbatore. You both stay here for a

couple of days and then come!

ya , Your son is too caring aunty Abhi wanted to say. But she didnt. Dressed up simply but

beautifully she came to their room. She found him with folded hands staring at her standing near the

balcony. ..........

A house beside the serene beach, the cool breeze from the nearby trees that touched her gently, the

fragnance of pretty little flowers that lay on their bed all played their best to make that night feel special

to them but the hearts which were meant to feel it , remained stiff as a rock!!

With batted breadth, she neared him to the balcony. When she came near him he turned his face to the

seashore and said, You have succeeded ,havent you? How much I requested you! You never heeded to

it. Why did you chose me when you know that you are no longer going to have a happy married life?

Wounded by his words, she replied in a low tone, How could you expect me to break this? I am a girl

and have certain restrictions.If you are so keen in this, you should have told to your parents!

Turning towards her,he said with a stern voice I came to you only because I was not in a position to say

this in my house.

After pausing for a minute, He looked at her and Abhinaya, you have to accept this.I AM NOT THE ONE

WHOM YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO MARRY!!

I am their adopted son. Their son Deva and I were brought up by them from our childhood. They

treated us equally in all ways and we both were sent to states for our higher studies. It was Deva to

whom you were supposed to get married with. Unfortunately , three months before he met with an


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accident and died. Amma and Appa were so dejected and were inconsolable. Only when I came here for

his final rights , Amma requested me to marry you.

I was shocked and was pushed to a helpless state. She didnt want you all to know of her Sons sudden

demise because that would bring a bad name for you. You would be identified as an unlucky girl .

Listening to this Abhi was so moved. Its so nice that Puspha aunty emphathized her situation. Sridhar

continued, I couldnt refuse their request since Amma liked you so much.

She looked at him and asked , So this is your problem! You dislike me just because this marriage was

forced on you!.

Sridhar nodded his head in disagreement and said, Its also one of the reason!.when she gave a puzzled

look he continued I had already made up mind to marry the girl whom I loved. I cant sacrifice my

desires and .. I WONT.

With tears filled in her eyes, she could hardly see his face clearly. Her future , her marriage , her

happiness all were sand houses built near the sea shore! Wiping her tears away she asked, then? What

is your decision?

He turned his eyes away from her and looking somewhere, replied we are married. I cant let my

parents know that it has become a failure.But at the same time I cant treat you as my wife , in any

way!!

This is not fair, she said.

Sridhar, that is my point too. If you had refused me initially, we both would have lived happily

How can I refuse you idiot! It was too late .. as I had already started loving you so deeply, she

said to herself

How can I refuse you idiot! It was too late .. as I had already started loving you so deeply, she

said to herself!

Displeased with her he walked towards their room and slept on the corner of the bed turning to the

other side.

She dont know long she was standing in the balcony alone and then she too went and lied down on the

bed much away from him.

She thought this is how mouna ragam Mohan would have felt la L , girls who face this kind of

problems will tend to despair and brood , however I wont be one among them.I shall to fight my fate to

win his love somehow telling to herself she dozed off soon.


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The sun peeped into their room the next morning and woke her up. What an awesome view it was. She

could see the sunrise so near. It gave her a feel of freshness and she went to take bath. When she came

back, she found her husband reading the morning news paper. She thought that he would wake up

little late and she will have more time to prepare the coffee . she quickly went inside the kitchen and

hurriedly prepared coffee for him. When she gave it to him ,he looked at her and said I saw yourunning towards kitchen after seeing me awake! Am I going to eat you up if you delay?

Abhi : errr. No I thought you would get up late thats why.

Sridhar:No, I always wake up early since my job doesnt permit me to be lazy! ..got to tell you.

We are leaving this morning to Coimbatore. Your things are already sent there so nothing much to

pack up ,I guess. Get ready by ten!

Abhi: okay.. thinking to herself you could have sent me yesterday itself along with your parents!! I

wonder what is the use of me, staying back! J

They reached the big house ( must say it a palace) by noon and both were warmly welcomed inside.

Pushpa and sekaran ,true to their word were very affectionate towards Abhi and treated more than a

daughter.

Days rolled on and Abhi liked everything in their house. The garden became her favourite and she

loved spending her time in mending it. The house saw many changes on her arrival. Being a girl

passionate towards interior designing and gardening, Abhi made everyone spellbound by her interests.

Everyone became very fond of her and her face glowed of immense joy .

Sridhar was too busy in his business. He managed both constuctions company and tiles factory in whichhe was very successful. It was initially taken care by Sekaran till he was advised to take bed rest.

One daywhen Sridhar was having his breakfast, sekaran said Sri, I find you too tensed these days. Am I

thrusting you with all my work load da?

Sridhar: No, Dad. Not really.. I have to handle all confidential things and have to check the daily

accounts in home. Thats why its little hectic!

Sekaran: why dont you let Abhi do it for you at home daily? She is good in accounts and can make

your work much easier

Abhi who had come there to give sekaran his tablets looked at Sridhar waithing for his reply.

Sridhar: Dad, she is too young to handle them . Moreover thats too confidential. Before he could

complete,

Sekaran: what are you blabbering? Whom else you could trust more than your wife?


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Thinking for a while, Sridhar said if she is comfortable with it , I have no problem!

Smiling at him , sekaran said, then Sri, this year we have to implement something new in our business

to sustain the competitions. since we already have tiles with fruits vegetable design for kitchen and so

why dont we try tiles with carpet design for living rooms and hotels ?

Sridhar Dad, that sounds good! I will work upon itsaying so he left the room .

Abhi smiled at her father-in-law and thanked him.

From that day , She sincerely took up the responsibility and Sridhar was relieved. He found more time to

rest and relax at home.

One day He turned late at night due to heavy rain and traffic.

When he entered his room he found Abhi cuddled up in the couch that was in their living room. Pushpa

came down on seeing him and said Come Sri, why so late? We called to your office and they told you

had left already !!

Sridahar: traffic ma, Heavy rain also, my mobile got switched off or else I would have informed

and why is she sleeping here?

Puspa , on looking at her: she tried to your mobile so many time and worriedly she was waiting here.

Poor thing, I asked her to go and sleep but she refused.

Even Sridhar felt sorry for her, and felt guilty for not informing about his late arrival.

When pushpa went to wake her up, Sridhar stopped her.

dont wake her up ma, I will take her, Saying so her gently carried her in his arms and went towards

their room . Pushpa watched with a smile on her face and went inside.

The moment he lifted her, Abhi woke up but she she didnt let him know that J.

The moment he lifted her, Abhi woke up but she she didnt let him know that J

when he reached their room he placed her on the bed and went to take bath. Abhi who woke up from

her sleep smiled to herself .

The next morning when she was serving his breakfast to him, He asked her how are you spending

your time at home Abhi? Do you feel bored?

Atleast he finds some time to care for me thinking so, she replied, not so I engage myself in

cooking and gardening and also at times I use to do pencil sketching..


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With a surprised look on his face really, I have never seen your works. Shall I ?

With a kind of little shyness she took him to the room where she spends her leisure time. It had sketches

that could amaze anyone who loved art. Birds, Monuments, babies and floral arts filled the room . As

he was admiring them, his eyes got hold of a picture that seemed to be her master piece

Holding it in his hands he looked at her with an expression that she couldnt make out!

It was a lifelike portrait of Sridhar himself, with a gracious smile!! J

how you drew so well? Your work seem to be so professional! How is it . You even dont have a

photo of me in this posture!

With a warm smile on her face Abhi said, I dont need one! J

There was a moment of silence in that room and he moved close to her and said, Abhi, I didnt expect

you to behave so gently in return of my rude behavior to you! What makes you to be so patient and

considerate towards me?

Abhi, looking into his eyes,: when you have your freedom to love a girl even after your marriage with

me, why shouldnt I ,your wife, Love you all through my life?

Sridhar felt so guilty and left the room in haste. Rays of hope dawned in Abhis heart as she too left the

room after keeping the portrait in place.

Months went on and slowly but steadily Abhi was making a place for her in his heart.

One fine day, Sridhar and his family were invited to his friends wedding and they all attended it.

It was more like a friends get-together and they all came to know each others family. Sridhars friend

Vinod , his wife Sudha came with their baby girl Sruthi. Sridhar introduced them to Abhi who easily

became friends with Sudha.

Sruthi who was a cute child became attached to Abhi and she loved holding her throughout the

ceremony. Both Sridhar and Pushpa didnt fail to see this.

On their way back to home, Abhi was cheerfully telling about about the naughty pranks of sruthi.

When they reached their home, Sridhar went to freshen up. Pushpa who was coming back called Abhi .

She went near her and pushpa said Abhi, it was so nice to see with a baby todaybut we too

wish to have a grandchild of our own. Though we are happy outside , we really miss our son Deva a lot!

We will try to come out of that sorrow by seeing our grandchilds faceI think you both have


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postponed this for some reason.. but We wish to pamper our grandchild before our last breath!! Hope

you understand dear!

Saying so ,she went away leaving Abhi behind who stood still.

When she reached her room she could no longer control her tears and weeped a lot.

Sridhar , unaware of this ,:Abhi , what ma, why are you crying like this?

Abhi: What can I do? When I see, Girls of my age being happily married and leading a contended life

with children, what else can I do rather than weeping alone? Whom should I blame upon? I loved you

all these days with a hope that you will reciprocate at some stage, only to be deceived !! If you are so

stubborn, please go ahead and marry the girl of your choice and . Put the blame on me :(what

can I reply your mother who believes that we are leading a happy married life ! we are cheating them

and I really dont know how to prove my love to you before she could complete , she found herself

in the warm hug of her dear husband . she felt like all her miseries were disappearing into thin air andburied her face into his chest. He patted her with consoling strokes and told her, Abhi ,Dont see me as

a heartless brute. I do have compassion and concern towards you. I am not the same Sridhar who was

unwillingly bonded to you months ago. Do give me some time to get back to you.. saying this to her

he looked deep into her eyes and moved from that place. Wiping her tears away, she felt some sunshine

in her gloomy heart. Sridhar by time was standing in the garden gazing at the flowers that had bloomed

with beauty and fragnance filling the air. As he touched his shirt, he felt the dampness of her tears on

his chest. With heavy heart , he realised, the one who gave life to this garden and made them bloom

is now withering .all because of ME! Few days later, Sridhar was invited for a conference in New

York which was for a couple of days. When he got the news, he asked her to pack his things for the trip.He came home to collect them and just then Abhis father Subramaniam visited them. While all were

talking together that dusky evening , Subramanian found time to have word with Sridhar personally.

Son! I have not interfered in your family issues for all these days.. but now I feel I have to Sridhar,

couldnt help himself from seeing Abhi who was busy taking the coffee cups from the living room.

Subramaniam noted this and immediately told no no dont suspect my daughter. She dont know that I

am raising this to you. In this seven months, on her visits to home, she never stayed long there. With

one reason or other she came back soon ..unable to be away from you for long! Even during her stay ,

she worry about how you would manage without her. I was both surprized and pleased to see my

daughter who was so attached to me know made her life well in her new home! On listening to him,Sridhar felt happy ,looking down he smiled . Subramaniam : But Sridhar, with a puzzled

expression on his face, waited for he was about to say Subramaniam: On her last visit , I

found her weeping alone before her mothers picture! I have never seen her crying to her mom. She

would always discuss her problems with me. But this time, Her act had made me feel that she was in

distress that couldnt even be shared with me, her father. I trust that you would find out what it is

as she would surely open up her mind with you ! Saying so, with tears peeping out of his


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wrinkled eyes, he took Sridhars hands in his and holded it I have no one else, other than Abhi.

Sridhar! Take good care of her! It was a moment when his consciousness hurted him so much. I am

cause of her stress and distress and her father believes that I would solve it !! She has been a very good

wife for me and didnt even disclose her problem with her own dad and I, who is supposed to be

concerned about her .. is being trusted by everyone to be a good husband! With a Assuringglance at him, Sridhar bid him goodbye and returned to his room and texted in his mobile

Priya , I am coming to see you tomorrow!

Priya who was impatiently staring at this stromed towards them .She neared them with rage and

snatched the glass from that girl. To everyones astonishment she smashed it to the ground and shouted

BEHAVE YOURSELF! Sridhar was shocked to see her behave in such a rude manner and took her away

from that place. He then asked her, Priya, why did you do that? Dont you know its common here. She

is our friend and she just teased me for fun.you., before he could complete his sentence,

Priya: ya, she is your friend. But you should know that I am longer your friend

Sridhar: hey! What happened?. She suddenly broke into tears and spoke in a soft tone.

Priya: yeah, I love you and I .. cant stand the sight of you moving with other girls. No matter

how they are related to you!

I have been with you all these days and now I just cant imagine anything without you. Being such good

friends , I believe that we can make a good couple!....... I havent spoke about this to you before

..but didnt expect that it will happen in such a situation.

Sridhar, with shock: Priya! What is this ?what are you saying?

Priya: we will meet in my home for dinner! Lets discuss about this later. Dont make a hasty decision

right now. Think and decide!

Saying so , she walked away leaving Sridhar, a utterly shocked . After coming to his room, he was deep

in thoughts.

He too was very attached to her . As a close friend would be!however he havent thought about taking

their relationship to the next level.Her sudden proposal pushed him to a dilemma stage. When he

recollected his days with her, he realized that it was not just friendship that she showed to him. Her

caring gestures and the joy in her eyes when she was in his company were etched in his heart. Finally

he decided to travel the journey of life.holding her hands J


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It was a grand dinner at Priyas house and she made sure that his favourite Indian dishes found there

place .He was so pleased by her gesture to have remembered all these which she had asked him long

before. After the dinner, Ram Mohan( Priyas dad) spoke to him about various things and finally ended

with the question, So, Sridhar ,What have you decided about Priya?

As He saw her surprised , she bent her head down with shy J He then replied to her dad If you pleased

with this , I will be happy to have her in my life uncle! However I do have something to disclose to

you. Saying so , he told that he was an adopted child and how he was looked after affectionately by

Pushpa and sekaran .

Listening to this, Rammohan patted his shoulders and said Son, The character and the behavior of a

person matters more than his brought up!

As far as I have seen you all these years, I am happy about you and trust you with my daughter.Thinking of something , he took Sridhar to the garden and told to him in a lowtone, But my boy, Are

you sure that your parents wont stand against this? Because , before knowing her,they might not be

ready to accept Priya as she is not brought up in India.

And also, She.. is very adamant and possessive with you! She might not take it light if this marriage

doesnt happen. I fear for that ,Sridhar, he finished in a sad tone!

Sridhar assured him that when he visit India the next time , he will surely get the acceptance of his

parents and being a lovable son, they will have no reason to disagree with him.

Ram Mohan was pleased and after speaking some time , Sridhar got ready to leave. Priya who came out

to send him , whispered, what were you both speaking so long? I was breaking my head in

curiousity!

Sridhar, uhh. He was feeling sorry for my pity state as I have to suff he was interrupted by her ,

what?? How dare you?? saying so she playfully tried to beat him up.

Sridhar , Smiling at her, what a girl you are? I have never seen a girl friend beating up her lover onthat day of their proposal!!

Priya, winked at him and said in the same tone I have also not seen a crap who replies for his proposal

to his girl- friends father


15/24

Sridhar, I wonder how I am going to manage you in future, Oh god, why didnt you send me ,the kind

of girl I wished for? he saw the skies with his hands up J

Priya pushed him and leaned on his shoulders, I am so happy Sri, How long I have longed for this

lovely day I will thank the god all through my life for this da!

With love he took her in his arms and looked into her eyes, saying I am Gifted dear, to have such a

loving angel in my life forever. I wonder how I am going to reciprocate all your love J

Love will come,laden with all happiness but no one realizes that it will take away more than it brought

while leaving!

Little he did not know that the same love is going to mess up with his life in future!

Little he did not know that the same love is going to mess up with his life in future! Days rolled by andthey were very happy in the company of each other. When there studies were over, Sridhar planned to

return back to India.

One day, He went to Priyas home early in the morning. Ram Mohan was busy starting for his office and

he welcomed Sridhar.

Sridhar: uncle , Where is Priya?Has she waken up?

Ram Mohan, Smiling at him, I dont think so ,that too in a holiday! Go and see for yourself. Her room is

in the first floor. I am leaving for my office , See you later son

Sridhar: yeah, okay uncle! Thinking to himself, certainly New yorkis totally different from India! The

freedom they give here is not imaginable there

He went upstairs and knocked her room. As no response came, he opened and went inside.

It was hard to believe that It was the room of a M.B.A student! It was very

Pretty with dolls and toys around, and reminded him of a play school J Her books were kept aside on a

table while everything was neatly arranged with any mess.

There he found Priya, curled up like a kitten inside a thick and cosy blanket. He sat by her side near the

bed and watched her cute face for a while without having the heart to wake her up.

He placed the cover that he had bought near her bed with a note on it and came down.


16/24

He switched on the television to while away his time till she comes. An hour passed by when suddenly

he was distracted from the t.v as he sensed some one coming downstairs.

When he turned his head around, he saw priya coming towards him in a deep blue silk saree with a

gorgeous pearl necklace in her neck. The saree was perfectly wrapped around her and showed herprettier.

She came cheerfully near him and said, hey Sri, your selection is so fine. How do I look in this?

Seeing the eagerness in her eyes, he gazed her and replied, hmmmmsort of a doll before a textile

shop . Hahaha

She stared at him mischeviously and questioned, whats special today? You are surprising me with gifts

unusually!!

Sridhar: lets go outside,Shall we?

Priya: Oh sure J

They drove towards the temple which was little far away from her home. Sridhar and priya walked in

and after the worship , they near the temple garden which was a serene place.

Priya: Now tell me. Why are flattering me like this all of a sudden?

Sridhar: hey, not so dear. I wished to visit this temple with you one day and so this happened.

And

Priya: And.?

Sridhar: I have to leave for India within a week !! I wanted to gift you something before that. Thats

why I bought you this saree and the necklace for you. I am not sure of when I will return back to take

you home !!

Her face became gloomy on hearing his words , and she took his hands saying Why dont you speak toyour mom now itself .Say about me to her softly. Atleast I will not be worried about this in your absence

!

Her pleading disturbed him very much and he was not able to deny it when she asked with tear filled

eyes!


17/24

He thought for a while and picked up his mobile to dial his home number.

Just then the phone rang and the displayed showed Deva!!

He was happy to see that and he received the call ..only to be shocked and turned pale on

hearing the voice on the other side!!........

Seeing his face turning pale, Priya became curious and tensed to know what the issue was all about.

After the call, he looked her with tear filled eyes and said, Deva..Deva is no more. He had died this

morning after a fatal accident Priya! I feel dizzy ..I wonder how my parents are going to bear this

shock. ..oh god why this happened!

Priya helped him to react fast for this and immediately took him to Devas University which was little

far away from their place. Since Sridhar was not in a state to drive, Priya drove as fast as she could.When they reached there, Devas friends met them and took them to the hospital where Deva was kept

lifeless!

Seeing him in that state, Sridhar wiped bitterly .All the arrangements to recover the body and finish the

formalities were taken care by Ram Mohan himself. He found it hard to console Sridhar who refused to

eat or drink anything for three days.

Here in Chennai, the plight of Sekaran and Pushpa was worser. When it was the time for Sridhar to

leave for India,Priya and Ram Mohan came to the Airport to send him off. Priya, Who was very worriedabout his departure , didnt let him know it and tried to be as normal as possible. Even before a minute

before leaving, his hands were in her hands bonded firmly J

He thanked Ram Mohan for his timely help and turned towards Priya and said, Priya, I didnt expect all

this would happen now.Dont worry Lets wait for things to get right there and surelysoon I will

come here with a good news!

She nodded her head and sent him with a heavy heart.. not knowing her life was destined in contrast

to her expectations.

Sir, would you like to have your lunch ?the voice of the air hostess , brought Sridhar to the present !!

Replying to her , he looked at his hands, a golden ring with the name abhi written on it J

Oh god ! give me the strength to face this critical situation today he prayed silently.


18/24

The flight reached Delhi and soon he found himself before the door of Priyas Apartment!

His fingers shivered as he ringed the calling bell. After waiting for a few seconds, the door opened and

Priya stood before him in the same Blue Saree wearing the pearl necklace that were gifted by him

months ago!

Her face glowed with joy and she greeted him happily inside. However Sridhar could not react in the

same way. As soon as he came inside , she was about to give him a warm hug. Just then he stopped her

with a sad face.

When she looked confused at him, he closed his eyes for a second and showed his hand to her.

Her eyes looked fixed on seeing the ring with the name ABHI!!!!

Her eyes looked fixed on seeing the ring with the name ABHI!!!!

Sridhar: PriyaI ..I am no longer yours!

She became speechless and stood still like a statue L

Sridhar, without leaving a silence in between ,told everything that happened in his life that were so long

unknown to Priya.

Starting from his arrival to India, his parents wish, his request to Abhi .everything..without

leaving behind a single incident!

There was a long silence.

When he turned back , he saw her still in her same position , only tears flowing from her reddened eyes

L

He felt shattered and responsible for her sad state and came near her.

In a soft tone he began,

Priya, I have nothing left to say. I admit that we were in love with lot of hopes.but unfortunately I

was not in a situation to keep up my promise made to you! I really feel sorry for the agony that I created

for you


19/24

She slowly turned her head towards him and asked, So you say that this marriage did not take place on

your wish , isnt it?

Sridhar, with a confused look asked her, what are you coming to say?

Priya, in a stern voice , I will excuse you ..if you are willing to make things work right once again!!

Come with me!

Sridhar: where?

Priya: As of now, to an Advocate . Later , to States!!

Sridhar:what the hell are you talking ,priya?

Priya: yeah, If you had been married to her without interest ,why shouldyou carry on? Get relieved

from that relationship ..by a DIVORCE!!!

Come with me to States orTake me to your home!I wont tell this to my dad ! let bygones be

bygones.forget everything!

Sridhar: did you think about Abhi , for once? What has she done, Priya?I havent treated her rightfully

of how a loving wife deserves, even for once! She had tolerated everything just with a hope in our

relationship! How can I

Priya, came near him furiously and caught hold of his collars.In a harsh tone, Have you thought about

me before making her your wife? If she has hope when you have ignored her for months, how much I

would have had, when you loved me in return? I cant think of anyone else and I am ready to accept

you after your divorce!

Sridhar, after taking a deep breath, BUT I AM NOT READY FOR A DIVORCE!!

In utter shock, she looked at him! what are blabbering Sri?

He turned towards her and said Priya, we may plan our lives but when it doesnt work out..we haveto accept the realities. I, initially was perplexed. However I am clear now

You are brought up in abroad. You are not aware of how divorce would ruin a girls life! I would not be

excused if I give such misery to my wife who had been loving me and my family so dearly!


20/24

Her polite approach and her love had changed my mind! How bad she would felt if she had seeked

her moms support! I cant miss her in my life,Priya! I have to shower her with my love that she had

been longing for!

Please dont try to convince me further!

I wanted to make things straight to you before getting back to my Abhi!

Listening to him , she kept quiet for some time and went inside in a hurry

After some time she returned and came near him,Sridhar, I understand !I wont compel you!

After this, there is no point in me staying in India. I am leaving for States!

Heiving a sign of relief he looked at her with a grateful look. Thank you Priya! Carry on and soon you

shall find a suited match for you.And sorry for everything!

I have to leave for a conference in New York in my next flight, Take care.It would take a couple of days

to return home.

Taking his card out, here is my visiting card. Drop in when are in Chennai !

Priya, then you must stay atleast for a lunch with me. I had cooked for you ..saying so she rushed in

to the kitchen!

Sridhar could not refuse it and while eating he remembered his dinner in her house!..... Destiny is

beyond mans control he thought to himself.

After washing his hands, he started .Before leaving he asked, when are you going to start to States

,Priya?

As soon as possible , in the next flight, she replied with a smile.

Waving his hands, he left from her. As his taxi, reached Airport, He boarded the flight.

At the same time , Priya was speaking to a Travels

On the other end,Mam,What can I do for you?

Priya,with a cunning look: Get me the tickets to the next leaving flight at any cost.. to CHENNAI!


21/24

In the clutches of her hand, there lied Sridhars ring..the ring that he removed while washing his

hands.with the name ABHI!

Unaware of anything, Dreaming of his happy future, Sridhar failed to see his engagement ring missing

in his hand! .not knowing that his married life was in risk!!!!!

Sridhar ,totally puzzled, How.How come you came to know her?

Abhi: Yeah, We met each other. She came to Chennai the very next day after you had left for New York.

Abhi began to narrate her conversation with Priya..on that day in Restaurant.!!!

Priya, who was sitting opposite to Abhi began to speak out

Priya: Abhi, you might not be having a good opinion about me . I can sense itIsnt it?

As she asked her with a smile, Abhi just smiled back but could not give her a reply!

How can she tell ,YES! as an answer. Only God knew how her heart was beating fast waiting for the

purpose of her sudden visit!

Even such a cool and airy atmosphere, Abhi felt suffocated.However she tried her best to appear normal

to Priya!

Priya, taking a deep breadth : Abhi. To be frank with you , ours wasnt mere infactuation or

.just lust! We loved truly with understanding when we were there! However we didnt end up in

marriage! Waiting for his response after the death of his brother, I moved to Delhi a few months

back.however when I contacted him , I felt that.. He was not too happy about it. I expected him

to visit me the very next day..but it didnt happen!

I was on cloud nine when he informed his visit to delhi

Abhi, who was listening to all this .felt that she was about to lose something very soon. She felt

dejected thinking that Sridhar was all in her memories

That had finally pushed him to meet her in Delhi!!!!

Priya read her thoughts that were reflected clearly in Abhis face!

Looking her eyes, with a sad smile, Priya said: But I didnt expect that Sridhar would have totally

changed and was.. was not the one ,who loved me so dearly!!!


22/24

Abhi was surprised and she looked at her waiting for her to complete

Priya, without hesitation told everything about her conversation with Sridhar..

Priya: Its true that I even asked him to get a divorce from youI was in such a craze on him Abhi! I

couldnt think about the right and the wrong! My mind was fixed and determined that my future was

with Sridhar!.........I was possessive and I didnt want to lose him at any cost! But he is virtuous Abhi!......

Though he married you to please his parents, he never tried to neglect or ill treat you! Your willpower

and hope had its effects in his mind state Abhi! He has his care and concern towards you and I am sure,

he will not missyou in his life! I must say..you are lucky !

though he loved me for years, he could not put me in your place.only because your dedication

and love had captivated his heart! He is able to part with me ,but not ready to lose you !

When she finished , Abhis face glowed in happiness and surprise!

Am I dreaming? All that is happening around me is reality or mere illusion?

Have I won the heart of my dear husband finally?

Abhis heart brimmed with contentment and she shed tears of joy J

Seeing her, Priya said: though I loved him deeply , I was not noble enough to accept that he was now

your husband !In fact, I didnt want him to wear this and. I took it away from him!

Saying so she took out his ring and showed it to Abhi..

Take it Abhi! When he comes from his trip, put it to himHe who accepted it earlier from you in

compulsion , will be happier to receive it from his loved wife! J

Abhi took the ring from her hands and kept in her bag!

Priya, handed her a bag and said,Iwill not come again to India in near future..I wanted to gift you

something..that why I got this for you

Abhi saw a bright blue saree with exquisite works which was very pretty!


23/24

Priya, bending her head down, I I have said everything that I wanted to say! But still you havent

spoken anything.. Forgive me Abhi! I didnt meand to.. ruin your life.. saying so she broke

into tears!

Abhi couldnt bear Priya sorrow and holding her hand in hers she said, Priyadont say so! Itsno ones fault! I am really happy that I came to know how good you are! Dont worry! and wiped away

her tears!

After some time, Abhi bid farewell to Priya , who with a contented heart left for the

Airport!.........................................................................................

Listening to this Sridhar was speechless! What a woman you are, Priya!

You took all pains to come all the way just to set my life right!

He looked at Abhi and said, I ..am sorry AbhiWhatever it may be , I should not meddled inyour

life because of my pastlife!

Abhi: You were true to your conscience! Keeping such pressure in your mind, you expressed it frankly!

Its better ! Atleast for now..its solved she said with a smile!

With a mischevious look he asked, then why were you brooding when I came here? I was perplexed

.you know!

She laughed : I wanted to justfrighten you! Only then you will have some fear towards me in

future , right ?

Joining in her laughter, he pretended to be frightened and said, Oh ..then ,Mam, Please tell me what I

should do now..? J J J

Abhi ,seeing his expression laughed aloud !!! Sridhar looking her fondly,came near her ! In his

affectionate hug, she was lost in his love JJHe took her face in his hands and asked,

..and this will last long till our end! My dear , tell me what should Ido now?

She looked into the eyes of her husband and said, Take me to the place where I longed for this

momentTake me to our beach house! I want to startour life all again .new from the same place

where I lost it!


24/24

Hearing this, He was so touched! He gently kissed her on her forehead and said, Sure Abhi! Lets go

there!

This time there travel was memorable and soon they reached the beach house in the evening! It was so

decorated as it was so during their previous visit!

But now there hearts were longing for each other that made that home feel heaven like!!!

As soon as they entered in, Abhis feet no longer touched the ground! She was gently carried byher

Sridhar who went towards their room

And towards a life with bounded love and joy !!!

Love after marriage.or after marriage is divine if it bounds the two hearts together .forever!!!!!

Documents

3 Love Behind the Nuptial Knot