The wedding celebration finally came to an end late at night. The hall that had been full of laughter, music, and relatives slowly became quiet.
Anaya sat in the decorated bridal room inside Araav's family house. Soft golden lights filled the room, and the bed was beautifully decorated with red rose petals.
Everything looked like a scene from a romantic movie.
But Anaya's heart was beating fast.
She was no longer in her parents' house.
This was her new home.
She gently touched the mangalsutra around her neck, still trying to believe that she was now married.
Suddenly, she heard the door open slowly.
Araav walked into the room.
For a few seconds, both of them felt awkward.
This was the first time they were alone after becoming husband and wife.
Araav noticed the nervous expression on her face.
He smiled slightly and said, "You look very tired."
Anaya let out a small breath of relief.
"Yes… today was a very long day."
Araav walked toward the table and poured two glasses of water. He handed one to her.
"Drink this. It might help."
"Thank you," she said softly.
There was a small silence between them.
Neither of them knew what to say.
Finally Araav spoke again.
"Anaya, I know everything happened very quickly. We barely know each other."
She nodded quietly.
"But I want you to feel comfortable here," he continued. "You don't have to feel pressured about anything."
Anaya looked at him with surprise.
Most people expected the first night after marriage to be romantic or dramatic.
But Araav seemed calm and understanding.
"I appreciate that," she said gently.
Araav sat on the chair near the window.
"To be honest," he said with a small smile, "I'm also trying to understand this new life."
Anaya laughed softly for the first time that night.
That small moment broke the awkwardness between them.
They began talking about simple things—work, hobbies, and childhood memories.
Anaya learned that Araav loved traveling and photography.
Araav learned that Anaya loved art and graphic design.
Hours passed without them realizing it.
At one point, Araav noticed that Anaya looked very sleepy.
"You should rest," he said kindly.
"And you?" she asked.
"I'll sleep on the couch tonight. You take the bed."
Anaya was surprised again.
"You don't have to do that."
"It's okay," he replied. "We should take things slowly."
His words made Anaya feel respected and safe.
She lay down on the bed, still thinking about the day.
As she slowly closed her eyes, one thought crossed her mind.
Maybe this arranged marriage wouldn't be as difficult as she had imagined.
Across the room, Araav sat quietly near the window.
He looked at the city lights outside and then at Anaya sleeping peacefully.
A small smile appeared on his face.
For the first time since the wedding discussions had started, he felt calm.
Their journey had just begun.
Two strangers.
One marriage.
And a love story waiting to grow.