Chapter 16 — The Shagun

The next day, Arnav went to an elegant saree store in the city.

He walked through the displays, looking at sarees in different colours and designs. He wasn't used to choosing clothes for someone else, and he found himself taking the decision far more seriously than he had expected.

He stopped when he saw a beautiful cream-coloured saree.

Arnav looked at it for a moment.

Arnav: This one.

The store assistant carefully brought it out for him.

Arnav: Pack it.

He then looked at a few more sarees.

Red.

Green.

Purple.

Arnav thought for a moment.

He had no idea what Ritika's favourite colour was.

Arnav: Pack these three as well.

The assistant nodded.

Arnav also selected matching bangles and a pair of elegant payal.

Then he remembered Rishi.

Arnav: Do you have something for a boy around eight years old?

After looking through the children's section, Arnav selected a traditional outfit for Rishi.

Once everything was packed, he took the gifts and left.

Later that evening, Arnav arrived at the Devraj mansion.

The family was gathered in the living room when he entered.

Devraj: Arnav, come in.

Arnav greeted everyone respectfully.

Arnav: Namaste, Uncle.

Devraj: Come, beta.

Arnav walked toward Ritika, who was sitting beside Rukmini.

He carried the carefully wrapped shagun packages.

Arnav: Ritika.

She looked up at him.

Arnav handed the gifts to her.

Arnav: This is for you.

Ritika accepted them with a surprised smile.

Arnav: And this is for Rishi.

Rishi looked excited when he saw the package.

Rishi: For me?

Arnav nodded.

Arnav: Yes, champ.

Rishi smiled brightly.

Rishi: Thank you!

Arnav simply nodded.

He didn't explain anything about the sarees, bangles or the other little surprise he had prepared.

Ritika looked at the beautifully wrapped packages curiously.

Ritika: Thank you, Arnav.

Arnav: You're welcome.

He then greeted Devraj and Rukmini once more.

Arnav: I'll take your leave.

Devraj: Alright, beta. Take care.

Arnav nodded and left the mansion.

Ritika continued looking at the packages in her hands.

She had no idea that among the gifts was a small handwritten letter from Arnav.

It was quietly tucked away, waiting for her to discover it herself.

For now, it remained a secret.