The car halted in front of the Khanna mansion. Neil tapped Avni's cheek to wake her up. She woke up and was a bit taken aback with her position. She was sleeping so close to him. She immediately moved away and straightened up herself.

They got off the car and walked towards the main door. Shweta was already standing there with the aarti ki thali. Bebe and Prakash were standing beside her.

Aarti was done and Avni entered the house leaving her footprints of kumkum behind.

Bebe: You must be tired. (To Avni). Tillu take her to your room. We'll do the rest of the rituals tomorrow. Now,go.

Neil nodded his head and looked at Avni. She followed him.

They entered the room. There was an uncomfortable silence. Neil wanted to talk to her but was hesitant.

Neil: Tum washroom mein change karlo. I'll use the other room.
(You change in the washroom)

Neil went outside after taking his clothes. When he came after changing, he saw Avni was still in her wedding lehenga. She had removed the dupatta and jewelry. Her makeup had been removed. Her hair was open. The curls effortlessly caressed her back.
Neil was about to say something but Avni spoke.

Avni: Tum bhi mujhe chod doge?
(Will you also leave me?)
She asked with teary eyes.

Neil can never see her in tears. He immediately cupped her cheeks and wiped away her tears.

Neil: Never.
He whispered.

Avni: Promise me...
She held out her pinky.

He looked at her and and smiled. He held her pinky and said,

Neil: When will you grow up Avu?
She frowned.

Neil: OK, fine. Pinky promise.

She smiled.
Neil moved towards the bed and lied down and closed his eyes. It was a long day. Emotionally draining for him but in the end he got his happiness.
Avni was still standing at that spot only.

Avni: Um...Neil.

Neil: Hmmm....
Eyes still closed.

Avni: Main...vo... Tumhare saath bed pe ....so jaun.
She asked.

Neil opened his eyes.
Neil: Of course, where else were you planning to sleep?

Avni looked down, embaressed.

Neil: Avu, I know that you were not ready for this marriage. But remember, we are friends, in fact best friends. You don't need to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.

Avni: Thankyou Neil. For always understanding me.
She said smiling.

Neil: Well, I'm tolerating you singlehandedly since childhood. I'm used to this now.
He said raising his imaginary collars.

Avni: Neil!!
She glared at him.

Neil: Fine! Sorry. Now come sleep.

Avni lied down on the bed besides him. Neil switched off the lights.

Avni: Neil...

Neil: I know you're scared to sleep at a new place.

Avni: That means I can hold your hand and sleep?

Neil: Yes.

Avni held Neil's hand and closed her eyes. While, Neil was happy that he was sleeping holding his Love's hand.

Avni: Stop staring Tillu.
She said with closed eyes.

Neil: I'm not staring you.
He said looking away.

Avni opened her eyes and smiled.

Avni: I know you very well Mr. Husband.
She said confidently.

Neil gave her a whatever look and then he looked embarrassed. Avni noticed this and said,

I promise Neil, I'll try to be a good wife. I'll try my best to make our marriage a happy marriage. To make it a perfect relationship. I just need some time and your support.

Neil: I know and I'm always with you. Good night.

Avni: Good night and sweet dreams.

Both drifted to sleep holding each others hand.

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