The journey continued smoothly after the earlier chaos. By late evening, the private luxury bus rolled into the Golden Mirage Resort, its driveway lined with lanterns and jasmine trees swaying in the cool mountain breeze.
As soon as the Kotharis stepped out, the resort staff welcomed them with polite bows and garlands. For the family, it was familiar—another elegant property like the ones they'd visited before. They carried themselves with calm grace, exchanging courteous smiles with the attendants.
But for Gauri and Charvi, it was like stepping into a dream.
The glass chandeliers glimmered like falling stars, and the scent of sandalwood drifted through the air. Charvi whispered in awe, "It's like a palace."
Gauri nodded, her eyes taking in every corner—the fountains, the marble pillars, and the distant sound of temple bells echoing softly through the hills.
Veena noticed their wonder and smiled warmly. "You'll get used to it soon, beta. The Kotharis travel only in style."
Gauri chuckled shyly. "I'll try, Ma."
They were then guided through the grand lobby toward their private suites. Sharda walked ahead silently, her expression calm but distant. The peaceful aura of the place seemed to ease something inside her.
Their suites opened to breathtaking views—lush green hills, a shimmering pool below, and lights that sparkled like stars across the valley. Each room had soft golden lighting and elegant décor that balanced tradition with comfort.
Vihaan and Yug unpacked effortlessly, clearly used to such surroundings. Gauri, meanwhile, stood by the balcony beside Charvi, her eyes wide with wonder.
"Charvi," she said softly, "I've only seen places like this in movies."
Charvi smiled. "Then maybe this is your movie moment, didi."
Just then, Vihaan walked in with a faint smirk. "Don't get too carried away. We're here to help Bade Maa relax, not to start a photoshoot."
Gauri gave him a playful glare. "Let me enjoy the view for five minutes, Mr. Rules and Regulations."
Yug laughed from the next room. "Better let her, Vihaan. You'll lose that argument faster than you lose at cards."
Even Sharda, from her adjoining suite, seemed to soften at the sound of laughter echoing through the corridor. For the first time in years, the Kothari home's gloom had lifted, replaced by the quiet comfort of togetherness.
That evening, the Golden Mirage Resort glowed under a sky jeweled with stars. In the courtyard, a grand bonfire burned steadily, casting golden light on the polished wooden decks and linen-draped tables arranged for the resort's VIP guests. Soft instrumental music played in the background, blending with the distant murmur of waves.
The Kothari family arrived together, each dressed elegantly. Their composure reflected both heritage and grace—people accustomed to luxury, yet grateful for peace after long storms.
Sharda walked beside Dadi and Veena, her face calm though her eyes still carried quiet emotion. Vihaan guided Gauri and Charvi toward their reserved table while Yug conversed lightly with the event manager.
As they took their seats, attendants poured drinks—juice and mocktails replacing alcohol, as Dadi insisted on purity during auspicious days.
Gauri looked around, her eyes softening. "It feels like the fire itself is welcoming us," she said.
Dadi nodded approvingly. "A fire is sacred, beti. It burns away shadows, but also gives warmth. Just like family."
Everyone smiled at her words. Veena added gently, "It's been a long time since we all sat together peacefully."
Gauri clasped her hands, her tone reflective. "Maybe that's why this moment feels special, Maa. It's not the place—it's the people."
The family shared a quiet laugh, and even Sharda's lips curved faintly—a sign that Gauri's warmth had reached her heart.
As the soft music swelled, Gauri stood, facing the flickering bonfire. The flames shimmered in her eyes as she began to recite softly, her voice like poetry carried by wind.
"From shadows we've risen, hearts reborn,
Through loss and pain, a bond was sworn.
Let no sorrow steal this light we've earned,
For tonight, the fire of love has returned."
Silence followed for a few moments—peaceful, reverent. The glow of the flames brushed against everyone's face as though blessing them.
Sharda rose slowly and placed a hand on Gauri's shoulder. "You speak with a heart that heals, Gauri. Maybe that's why peace follows you."
Gauri smiled humbly. "Then I'm grateful peace chose our family tonight."
Vihaan, seated beside her, looked at her with quiet pride. "You've become the light of this home," he said softly.
Gauri blushed, lowering her gaze as Dadi watched them both with affection. "May your bond always stay this pure," Dadi murmured.
The night carried on with laughter, gentle music, and shared stories. Yet far beyond the resort's gleaming lights, hidden in the darkness of the forest, a faint haunting melody rose—the same tune played on a mouth organ, soft but eerily familiar.
Unseen by anyone, its echo drifted closer to the resort…
and the flames of the bonfire flickered strangely for a moment.
To be continued...