✍️ Author's Note
This chapter celebrates traditions, cultural rituals, and family bonds. From floating diyas on the sacred river during Aarti to playful teasing, music, dancing, and shared laughter, it captures the warmth of togetherness. Small gestures, bonding, and moments of fun—helping a sibling, catching a friend from falling, sharing sweets—create lasting memories. It is a reflection of joy, subtle romance, and the beauty of living in the present with loved ones, where even fleeting seconds feel timeless.
📖 Blurb
Evening at Rishikesh brings magic, bonding, and playful chaos. Ryu experiences the glow of Triveni Ghat during Aarti, floating diyas, and spiritual reflections. Amid laughter, teasing, and subtle sparks of romance, the group explores local markets, enjoys food, dances to local music, and shares intimate moments. Between playful mishaps, family connections, and heart-fluttering glances, this evening promises memories that will linger forever
The boat rocked gently on the Ganga's surface, carrying Ryu, Rey, Arjun, Aakash, Ravi, Anika, Aarav, and a few others. The last rays of the sun painted the hills with gold, and Ryu leaned forward, mesmerized by the shimmering diyas floating downstream. Her heart felt full, as if the river itself carried the laughter and warmth of everyone around her.
Ryu noticed Aakash sitting quietly, slightly apart from the group, and her chest tightened. He seemed hesitant to join in, yet she felt a natural pull to include him. "He shouldn't be alone," she thought. "Everyone deserves to feel like they belong."
Rey's eyes flicked toward her from across the boat, calm yet intense. Ryu's pulse quickened each time their eyes met.
Rey POV
She's so pure… so calm… like the river itself, flowing effortlessly through this chaos, bringing light and warmth without even trying. Every time I look at her, it's like time slows down, and I can feel every heartbeat, every unspoken word between us. How can I feel so drawn to someone so gentle, so real, when I know the plan we have… the things I'm supposed to do… I can't let her see it coming. I shouldn't feel this way—she makes everything I've been taught to hide feel impossible to maintain. And yet, every laugh, every glance, every small movement she makes pulls me closer, and it scares me how much I want to stay in this moment, even if it's wrong.
Arjun sat at the back, arms crossed, his posture rigid. He observed the interactions quietly, a protective instinct surfacing despite his usual restraint.
Arjun POV
She's part of this family… but I don't trust him. Every subtle glance, every small interaction… I can't shake the feeling that something's off. I'll keep watch, silently, without letting anyone notice. My duty is to protect her, even if it means standing in the shadows, unseen. I may not understand her completely, but I won't let anything hurt her.
Aakash's gaze lingered on Ryu, noticing her warmth, the way she included everyone without effort.
Aakash POV
She notices even me. The way she smiles, the way she reaches out, including everyone… why does it feel so comforting? My chest feels tight in a way I can't explain, like her presence is filling a space I didn't know existed. How can a single person make everything feel so warm, so right? I want to stay near her, to be part of her light… even though I barely know her.
When the boat reached the ghats, the golden glow of lamps and floating diyas greeted them. The sound of soft chants and distant bells filled the air, mingling with the scent of marigolds and incense. Ryu knelt beside the river, her heart softening at the beauty surrounding her.
Ryu POV
It's so peaceful… alive… magical. Everyone's here, laughing, smiling… and yet it feels timeless. The river glows under the diyas, the soft chants in the air, the warmth of family around me… it all blends into something I'll never forget. My heart feels full, and even in this chaos, I feel connected to everyone, to the moment… to life itself.
Her grandmother's eyes sparkled as she squeezed Ryu's shoulder. "So happy to see the children enjoying… these are the moments that matter," she said softly.
Kabir nudged Maya, grinning. "Look at Rey… staring at Ryu again. He hasn't even blinked."
Maya smirked. "She has no idea. He's completely smitten."
Rey's gaze lingered on Ryu's delicate hands as she lit a diya.
Rey POV
She's so calm… so lovely. The way she moves, the way her smile lights up everything around her… I shouldn't be staring, but I can't stop. Every little gesture, every soft laugh, draws me in closer than I expected. My heart races, and I can't tell if it's the river, the diyas, or just her—but I know I'm captivated. I want to stay in this moment, even if it's wrong to linger so long.
Ravi, noticing Rey's lingering attention, felt a twinge of jealousy.
Ravi POV
Why is he staring at her like that? It's just a glance… but no, it's not. His gaze lingers, too long, too intent. My chest tightens, a twinge of jealousy I can't shake. She's right there, smiling, glowing, and he's… mesmerized. I want to laugh it off, tease them both, but there's this strange, heavy feeling. Why does it bother me so much?
Ryu whispered a quiet prayer to Devi Nanda as she held her diya. "Devi Maa… why is my heart drawn to him? Who is he to me? Please guide me… show me the path of my heart." She placed the diya carefully in the water and froze when she noticed Rey's reflection shimmering alongside it.
Ryu POV
Devi Maa… why do I see him here? Is this a sign? His reflection beside mine, shimmering in the water… it feels like fate, or maybe a warning. My heart skips, and I can't tear my eyes away. Is this just the magic of the river, or something more? Something… meant only for me?
Rey's heart raced, captivated by her focus and innocence.
Rey POV
Her heart is so open, so pure… and it makes my own pulse race. She's like the river itself—calm, gentle, yet impossibly captivating. How can I resist looking at her? Every movement she makes draws me in, every soft glance makes it harder to follow the plan. I shouldn't be this affected, but I am. Completely. And I can't stop myself from watching, from wanting to protect her, even while knowing I shouldn't.
Nearby, Kabir and Maya snapped a quick photo, oblivious to the charged tension in the air.
Ryu knelt next to Anika and Aarav, helping them carefully place their diyas in the water.
Anika POV
Seeing the diyas float softly on the river, their golden glow reflecting on the water, I feel a little thrill of magic. But what really makes my heart race is watching Ryu beside Rey. She's so gentle, helping everyone with care, and Rey… he looks at her like she's the only person in the world. I can't help but smile, feeling warm inside, like I'm seeing something very special.
Aarav POV
The river looks amazing with all the diyas glowing… it feels like a dream. But I can't stop glancing at Rey and Ryu—my brother is smiling at her, and she's so calm and kind with him. I feel proud seeing them together, and a little excited too. It's like the whole river, the diyas, and this evening are showing something important, something I want to remember forever.
Rey stepped closer, lightly holding Ryu's hand to steady her. She blushed and stepped back. Ryu thought: "Her hand… her closeness… why is my heart racing?"
Grandmother and Uncle watched, hearts warmed by the scene.
Grandmother POV
Seeing the family together like this… all of them laughing, helping each other, the glow of the diyas reflecting on their faces… it feels so precious. Every little moment—the children carefully placing their diyas, Ryu guiding them with such patience, Rey standing protectively nearby—it's as if the river itself is blessing this evening. My heart swells with quiet happiness; these are the memories that make life meaningful.
Uncle POV
These small moments… this is what we live for. Watching everyone, so carefree, yet connected, sharing smiles and teasing, surrounded by the shimmering lights of the diyas—it reminds me of the simple joys that matter most. No matter the chaos of the world, this river, this family, this laughter… it grounds me, and I know these evenings will stay in our hearts forever.
Then Ryu noticed Aakash sitting apart, alone. She called out, "Hey! Let's include Aakash!" The group gathered around, laughter and conversation filling the space.
Aakash POV
I didn't expect this… but they made me feel welcome. Seeing everyone laughing together, helping each other, placing diyas on the river—it's warm, alive, and somehow… it feels like I'm part of it. I… feel like I belong here, like I've always been meant to be included. Even though I barely know them, their smiles, their teasing, their gentle care—it makes me feel seen. For the first time, I don't feel like an outsider. I want to stay in this moment forever.
Candid photos captured smiles, Ryu and Aakash bonding, and Rey stealing glances at Ryu.
A diya tipped over, spilling water onto Rey's foot. Kabir and Avyaan teased him mercilessly. Ryu laughed, but her foot slipped near the riverbank. Her heart leapt, and Rey's hand shot out, catching hers.
Ryu POV
He saved me… again. My heart is still hammering from the sudden rush, and I can't stop thinking about how close he was, how steady his hand felt in mine. Why does every touch make my heart race like this? It's confusing, thrilling, and a little scary all at once. Even though I try to stay composed, I feel this strange warmth spreading through me, a flutter I can't control.
Rey POV
I can't let her fall… not here, not now. My reflexes took over before I even realized it, my hand finding hers to steady her. The moment lingers in a way I didn't expect—her startled glance, the soft blush creeping over her cheeks… I can't let anyone see how much I care, yet every fiber of me wants to stay close. Protecting her isn't just instinct—it's something more, something I can't deny.
Nearby, musicians played lively tunes, their rhythms floating across the riverbank, mingling with the soft glow of diyas. The evening air was filled with laughter and the scent of incense, creating a magical, timeless atmosphere.
Ryu POV
I couldn't resist smiling as the music pulled us in. The sway of my ghagra, the jingling of my bangles, the warmth of Maya and the others beside me—it felt like we were part of the river's own dance. Seeing Aarav and Anika twirl with excitement, Kiara giggling at her small steps, and Ishani and Aryan moving with ease made me laugh softly. For a moment, the world felt impossibly bright and alive.
Maya POV
Ryu's energy is infectious. I can't stop laughing as we all sway to the music, our skirts and dupattas fluttering. The lights of the diyas reflect in everyone's eyes, and the river mirrors our joy. This is exactly the kind of memory I want to keep forever.
Rey POV
Watching Ryu move with such grace… so pure, so carefree… it makes my chest tighten. Every laugh, every step she takes, pulls me in, and yet I have to stay just outside, careful not to show how drawn I am. Her happiness is mesmerizing, and I want to be the one keeping her safe even in these lighthearted moments.
Ravi POV
I can't help but grin at the scene. Ryu, Maya, the kids—they're all spinning and laughing, and Rey just stands there, mesmerized. I feel a little pang of mischief and jealousy, wanting to tease them, but also warmth at seeing everyone so alive and happy.
Family POV :
Watching the younger ones and Ryu dance together brings smiles to all of us. Their joy is contagious, and the glow of the diyas against their colorful traditional attire makes the moment feel sacred. This is why these evenings matter—the family together, music, laughter, and traditions blending into a perfect memory.
Nearby, the children—Anika, Aarav, Kiara, Ishani, Aryan, and Siya Di—danced with bright eyes and light hearts, copying Ryu and Maya's movements, their laughter echoing against the river. The older boys—Rey, Ravi, Kabir, and Avyaan—watched fondly, some swaying subtly to the rhythm, unable to resist the magic of the moment.
The air shimmered with warmth, lights, and joy, each diya reflecting the smiles and laughter of everyone present, turning the evening into something unforgettable.
Later, the group explored the local market. Stalls overflowed with incense, spiritual books, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Ryu tasted a sweet jalebi, and Rey quietly snapped a photo of her.
Ryu POV
The market buzzed with life—stalls overflowing with colorful handicrafts, incense curling in the warm evening air, and the rich scent of spices teasing my senses. I couldn't resist tasting a freshly fried, syrupy jalebi, its sweetness making me grin.
Then I felt it—a flash from a phone camera.
"Hey! That's mine! Give me the phone!" I laughed, lunging playfully for it, but he held it just out of reach. His smirk made my cheeks warm, and I realized how ridiculously fun this little chase was. The laughter around us—from Kabir, Maya, our guardians—made everything feel light and carefree.
Even in this playful scuffle, I noticed the way he was watching me—so calm, so attentive, yet teasing. My heart skipped a beat. I wanted the phone, yes, but more than that, I wanted to stay in this moment a little longer, caught in the warmth of the evening, the crowd, and him.
She lunged playfully, but Rey held it just out of reach, grinning.
Rey POV
She doesn't even realize how perfect this moment is. Her laughter, the little determined lunge for my phone, the sparkle in her eyes as she scolds me playfully—it's… mesmerizing. Every movement she makes draws my gaze, makes my chest tighten.
I hold the phone just out of reach, letting her chase it, wanting to see her smile and hear her laugh. Guardians and friends are laughing at our playful antics, but I hardly notice them. All I see is her, completely absorbed in the market, in the sweets, in the evening… and in me, even if she doesn't know it yet.
Candidly, I snap a few more pictures, capturing the mischief, the sweetness, the joy—all of it. These small moments, fleeting as they are, feel like they will linger forever in my memory.
Guardians laughed at their playful scuffle. Candid photos captured shared snacks and mischievous glances.
Everyone was feeling hungry after the evening at the Triveni Ghat and the bustling market. The group settled at a cozy, traditional restaurant that served sattvic meals. Kabir and Avyaan were already teasing each other over who would finish first, while Maya laughed at their antics.
Ryu's grandmother smiled warmly as she helped everyone serve their portions. "Eat slowly, children," she reminded gently, her eyes twinkling with happiness at seeing the whole family together. Kabir's parents chuckled, exchanging amused glances as Kabir tried to sneak extra servings.
Rey, Aarav, and Anika quietly focused on their meals, though Rey occasionally stole glances at Ryu, who was laughing softly at something Maya had said. Ishani and Aryan were caught up in friendly banter with their siblings, while Kiara happily gobbled her food, occasionally looking up to mimic Ryu's careful movements with her plate.
Ryu chimed in, "Try this sweet first—it's really good!" as she offered a bite to Ishani, who giggled in response. Maya playfully nudged Ryu, whispering, "You're spoiling everyone tonight."
The atmosphere remained lighthearted throughout, filled with laughter, teasing, and the clinking of utensils. Everyone paused occasionally to take selfies and group photos, capturing smiles, candid moments, and quiet glances between Ryu and Rey. The flicker of diya lights from the previous evening reflected softly on the walls, making the dinner feel intimate and full of warmth.
It was a meal that brought everyone closer—laughter, teasing, and shared happiness weaving a sense of togetherness that would linger long after the plates were empty.
Back in the hotel garden, fireflies lit the soft breeze. Ryu carefully walked over uneven paths; Rey offered his hand. Their fingers brushed lightly, making her cheeks flush.
She glanced at a small pond and saw Rey's reflection alongside her own, recalling Devi Maa's earlier sign.
Ryu POV
The garden was quiet except for the soft hum of night insects and the gentle flicker of fireflies. I stepped carefully along the uneven paths, feeling the cool breeze against my skin. Then his hand appeared, steady and reassuring. Our fingers brushed lightly, and a warmth spread through me that I couldn't ignore. My cheeks burned, my heart raced, and suddenly the world seemed to shrink to just us and this moment.
I glanced at a small pond nearby, and for a fleeting second, I saw his reflection beside my own. My mind flashed back to the earlier prayer at Triveni Ghat. Devi Maa… why am I seeing him here? Is this a sign? My chest tightened, my thoughts spinning. Could it really be a sign? Or am I imagining it all?
Maya POV
I watched Ryu from a few steps behind, trying not to smirk too obviously. She's clearly smitten… and he knows it. Her cheeks are flushed, her movements just a little too deliberate when he's near. The way she glanced at that pond, the way her hand lingered for a heartbeat longer than necessary—she's completely unaware of how obvious it is to everyone else. I can't help but smile. Poor girl… and yet, it's kind of endearing.