2100+ Words

Toot jaye khawab toh koi aas kya 
rakhna,
palko ke bheegne ka hisab kya
rakhna,
bas isliye muskura dete hai
hum,
Apne dukh se kisi ko udaas kya
rakhna

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Author's pov:

As Anshika diligently continued her culinary duties in the kitchen, her focus unwavering despite the interruption of Ashwin's bua, Radha Singh. With each taunting remark, Anshika felt a pang of frustration, but she remained steadfast in her resolve to complete her tasks with grace and dignity.

However, before Radha could unleash another barb, Viyaan swept into the kitchen like a protective shield, his presence a welcome relief amidst the tension. With a firm but polite tone, he firmly requested Radha to leave, unwilling to tolerate her negativity any longer.

Relieved by Viyaan's intervention, Anshika offered him a grateful smile as they continued to work together harmoniously. With Viyaan's assistance, Anshika swiftly completed the preparations, her confidence bolstered by his unwavering support.

Soon, the tantalizing aroma of Indian delicacies filled the air, signaling that the feast was ready to be served. Anshika and Ashwin's mother worked side by side, their movements synchronized as they plated each dish with care and precision.

Once everything was ready, Anshika called out to everyone, her voice tinged with anticipation as she eagerly awaited their gathering at the dining table. One by one, the family members took their seats, their expressions alight with excitement for the meal that awaited them.

However, Ashwin was notably absent, engrossed in his work as he rushed to meet a deadline. His absence cast a shadow over the joyous occasion, but Anshika remained determined to ensure that the celebration continued without him.

As Anshika began to serve the dishes, Dadu's authoritative voice broke through the chatter, his words carrying the weight of tradition and respect. He insisted that Anshika take her place at the table and allow the servants to handle the rest, a gesture of kindness and consideration that touched Anshika's heart.

But Radha couldn't resist one final jab, dismissing Dadu's gesture as mere theatrics. 

Radha's taunt towards Anshika was sharp and cutting, designed to undermine her confidence and assert superiority. With a sneer, she remarked, "Of course she likes drama," implying that Anshika's actions were exaggerated and insincere, motivated by a desire for attention rather than genuine intention.

This taunt struck at the heart of Anshika's efforts, suggesting that her hard work and dedication were merely a façade. It insinuated that Anshika's actions were performative rather than genuine, casting doubt on her sincerity and integrity.

However, Anshika refused to let Radha's hurtful words affect her. With resilience and determination, she continued to carry out her tasks with grace and poise, rising above Radha's negativity and proving her worth through her actions rather than words.

Before she could utter another word, Dadu's voice rang out with uncharacteristic sternness, rebuking her with a reminder of proper etiquette and respect.

"That's etiquette, not drama, Radha," he stated firmly, his voice carrying the weight of authority and respect. His words were a clear rebuke, a reminder to Radha of the importance of kindness and civility within their family.

Radha, taken aback by Dadu's unexpected admonishment, fell silent, her expression tight with frustration. It was clear that Dadu's words had struck a chord, serving as a gentle but firm reminder that their family was built on principles of respect and compassion.

Though the tension lingered in the air for a moment, Dadu's intervention had effectively silenced Radha's taunts, restoring a sense of harmony to the gathering. And as the family settled in to enjoy the meal that Anshika had prepared with such care

......

As the family savored the delectable dishes prepared by Anshika, their expressions of delight and appreciation filled the room 

With a contented smile, Dadu leaned back in his chair and exclaimed, "Ah, this reminds me of the flavors of my childhood! Anshika, my dear, you've truly outdone yourself. Your cooking is simply exquisite!"

Ashwin's mother beamed with pride as she sampled each dish, nodding approvingly. "Anshika, beta, you've brought such warmth and flavor to our table," she said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "Your cooking is a reflection of your kindness and generosity. Thank you for blessing us with such delicious food."

 Viyaan, never one to hold back his opinions, couldn't resist showering Anshika with praise. "Wow, Bhabhi! This food is amazing," he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "You've got some serious talent in the kitchen. I could eat like this every day!"

Noha's enthusiasm was infectious as she dug into her meal, savoring each bite with gusto. "Bhabhi, this is incredible!" she exclaimed between mouthfuls. "I feel like I'm in a five-star restaurant. You've truly raised the bar with your cooking!"

Ankush, Ashwin's Father, offered a nod of approval as he tasted Anshika's dishes. "Anshika beta, you've won me over with your culinary skills," he remarked with a grin. "I never knew vegetarian food could be this tasty! Consider me a fan."

Anshika's warm smile and hospitality didn't go unnoticed by grandma, who offered her heartfelt thanks. "Anshika dear, you've made this meal so special," she said, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you for sharing your talent and love with us. It truly means a lot."

As Ashwin finally joined the family at the dining table, a palpable tension seemed to settle over the gathering. His arrival was met with a mixture of curious glances and subtle shifts in demeanor, as everyone noted his stoic expression and apparent lack of emotion.

Sitting down next to Dadu, Ashwin picked up his utensils and began to eat, his movements mechanical and devoid of the usual enthusiasm or warmth. His silence spoke volumes, a stark contrast to the lively conversation and laughter that had filled the room moments earlier.

Despite the jovial atmosphere surrounding him, Ashwin remained distant and detached, lost in his own thoughts as he mechanically went through the motions of eating. His presence seemed to cast a shadow over the meal, a reminder of the underlying tension and unresolved emotions that lingered beneath the surface.

However, Dadu, ever the voice of reason and understanding, refused to let the mood dampen the festivities. With a reassuring smile, he gently nudged Ashwin, encouraging him to join in the conversation and partake in the joyous occasion.

But Ashwin's facade remained unyielding, his emotions guarded behind a mask of indifference. And as the meal progressed, his silence served as a silent reminder of the distance that still remained between him and the rest of the family.

Anshika, sensing the tense atmosphere but undeterred by Ashwin's apparent indifference, focused on the meal before her. She quietly began eating, her movements measured and composed, as she took her place next to Ashwin at the table.

As Bua once again made her snide comment about Anshika's seating choice, Anshika barely flinched, her attention fixed firmly on her plate. She chose to ignore the jab, unwilling to engage in the petty drama that threatened to overshadow the family gathering.

Despite Ashwin's emotionless demeanor, Anshika remained resolute in her decision to sit beside him, . She refused to let Bua's remarks or Ashwin's coldness diminish her presence or dampen her spirits.

However, Bua's sharp tongue couldn't resist the opportunity to cast aspersions on Anshika's actions once again. With a disdainful sniff, she questioned Anshika's choice of seating, her tone dripping with condescension. "And what's her name again? I seem to have forgotten," she remarked, her words laced with thinly veiled contempt.

But this time, Ashwin's response was swift and cutting, his voice tinged with icy rage as he addressed Bua's taunts head-on. "Her name is Anshika Ashwin Singhania," he declared, his words sharp and precise. "Let me repeat, Anshika Ashwin Singhania. And she is my wife and the elder daughter-in-law of this house. You cannot taunt her like this."

The forcefulness of Ashwin's rebuke silenced the room, the weight of his words hanging in the air like an unspoken threat. Everyone present knew better than to challenge Ashwin when he was in such a state of anger, his authority within the family unquestionable.

Even Bua, typically unyielding in the face of confrontation, fell silent under the weight of Ashwin's wrath. She knew all too well the consequences of provoking him further, understanding that any further antagonism could result in her expulsion from the household.

And so, with a begrudging acceptance, Bua begrudgingly acquiesced to Ashwin's demands, silently acknowledging Anshika's rightful place within the family hierarchy.

As the meal drew to a close, the warmth and camaraderie that had filled the dining room lingered in the air like a comforting embrace. With satisfied smiles and contented hearts, each family member turned their attention to Anshika, offering her their heartfelt blessings and well-wishes.

Dadu, his eyes twinkling with pride, extended his hand towards Anshika, his voice resonating with wisdom and affection. "May the blessings of the elders guide you on this journey, Anshika," he said, his words carrying the weight of tradition and respect. "May your union with Ashwin be filled with love, understanding, and prosperity."

Ashwin's mother, her gaze soft with maternal affection, placed a gentle hand on Anshika's shoulder. "May your home be filled with happiness and laughter, my dear," she murmured, her voice filled with warmth and sincerity. "May you find strength in each other's love and weather any storm that comes your way."

Viyaan and Noha, ever the spirited siblings, offered Anshika their playful blessings with a mischievous twinkle in their eyes. "May your marriage be as spicy as your cooking, Bhabhi!" Viyaan exclaimed, earning a playful swat from Noha. "And may your love story be filled with endless adventures and unforgettable moments."

Ankush offered a nod of approval and a smile of encouragement. "May your bond with Ashwin grow stronger with each passing day," he said, his voice sincere and heartfelt. "And may you find joy and fulfillment in the journey ahead."

Grandma, with her infectious enthusiasm and youthful exuberance, embraced Anshika tightly. "May your love shine brightly, illuminating the path ahead," she exclaimed, her voice filled with optimism and hope. "And may you always find strength and solace in each other's arms."

Even Dadu's stern demeanor softened as he bestowed his blessings upon Anshika, his words a testament to the depth of his affection. "May you always walk hand in hand, facing life's challenges with courage and grace," he said, his voice tinged with pride. "And may your love story be written in the stars, a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come."

And with each heartfelt blessing and sincere wish, Anshika felt her heart swell with gratitude and joy.

As the chorus of blessings and well-wishes subsided, Anshika graciously expressed her gratitude to each family member, her voice filled with sincerity and warmth. "Thank you, everyone, for your kind words and blessings," she said, her eyes shining with appreciation. "I am truly honored to be a part of this family, and I promise to cherish and uphold the values that you have instilled in me."

Turning to Dadu, the patriarch of the Singhania family, Anshika made her request with humility and respect. "Dadu, may I seek your permission to return to my office?" she asked, her tone earnest and sincere. "There are some pending matters that require my attention, and I wish to ensure that everything is in order."

Dadu, with his customary wisdom and generosity, offered his approval without hesitation, his faith in Anshika unwavering. "Of course, my dear, you still can work in your office and business we have no problems or I will say you can join your office from tomorrow no one will oppose of course our daughter-in-law is modern and independent" he replied, his voice warm and reassuring. "You have proven yourself to be a capable and dedicated professional, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your endeavors."

But before Dadu could finish speaking, Bua interjected with her usual brand of negativity, her tone sharp and critical. "And what about your duties as a daughter-in-law, Anshika?" she interjected, her voice dripping with disdain. "Shouldn't your priority be to take care of your husband and your new family?"

Anshika, undeterred by Bua's attempt to undermine her aspirations, maintained her composure and addressed her concerns with poise and dignity. "I understand the importance of my responsibilities, Bua," she replied calmly, her voice steady despite the simmering tension in the room. "But I believe that I can fulfill my duties both at home and at work. With Ashwin's support and the blessings of the family, I am confident that I can strike a balance between my professional and personal life."

Her words, spoken with conviction and determination, left no room for argument.