TWENTY
Maya had looked forward to this day. Kartik was also excited. She looked beautiful on her wedding day.
“Please exchange garlands with each other,” the priest said. They were made of red and white roses and were to bond them forever. It must be weighing not less than ten kilos and they were to carry them around their necks now for the entire night.
“Now your independence will get over, Kartik!” His friends warned him as if he was a country that was being besieged by an enemy! It was time for her to leave for Kartik's home.
Her father's eyes showed utter misery. Even her stepmother's eyes were filled with tears.
“Take care, beta,” he said as he hugged her. He burst into tears. She had never seen him crying like this. “You are a piece of my heart. Never forget it. I will always be there for you.” She went ahead to hug her stepmother.
“Maya, take care, baby. I am sorry if I ever hurt you, but I hope you know I never meant any ill.”
“It's Okay, ma. Relax,” she smiled.
She went into her room to have a last look and came out. She hugged her friends. She held back her tears and walked towards the car. Everything around her seemed to tell her that she was making a big mistake, but now it was too late. Kartik was waiting for her, almost expressionless.
“Take care of her. I am giving you a part of me. Please don't ever make her cry. Let me know if she ever does anything she should not. Just be kind to my daughter. She lost her mother quite early in life…” her father broke down. “Sure, don't worry!” Kartik said embracing him and patting him.