FF: The Tempest, chapter 11 - Epilogue, p 32 - Page 25

Chapter 11 - Epilogue

Gopi looked on at herself in the mirror at the beautiful bride she made. She was dressed in traditional red bridal wear that was heavy yet enhanced her natural beauty. Ahem's bedroom was decorated exquisitely with flowers, lit candles and red rose petals on the bed.

The last few days flew by without skipping a heartbeat. It felt like a whirlwind of little events that never spared a penny in keeping the celebrations opulent yet respectfully dignified just as the Modi's were regarded in the community.

Kokila had requested that Gopi spend the remaining days leading up to the wedding her home and had insisted on taking care of Gopi's every need. Visible relief was seen on Urmila's face. Gopi chose to ignore her mami's look. Instead, she found herself relishing the unconditional love every Modi family member and more so from Ahem.

With the wedding over now life will settle down. Gopi has a new role to fulfil – wife to her Ahemji and daughter, not daughter-in-law, as her maji had told her many times, then soon to be a mother. Gopi placed her hand on her tummy and looked intently at the mirror at her growing smile.

"This is what I want to see from now on," said a clear voice.

Gopi turned to the entrance of the bedroom and saw Kokila standing at the doorway.

"Maji," said Gopi while standing up.

"I brought a glass of warm milk for you to give Ahem when he comes," Kokila instructed while walking into the room and placing it at the side table.

She turned around to Gopi and lightly held her on her chin with her fingertips, smiling on at her, "Gopi vahu you are everything I need in a vahu that will stand by Ahem."

Kokila took Gopi into her arms and hugged her. She pulled away but still holding her on her shoulders, "I am so happy you are here."

"Thank you, Maji," replied Gopi softly.

"All I ask of you is to love him, like you do now. Ahem will be here soon let me leave you," said Kokila and walked out of the room.

Gopi found herself staring at the doorway as Ahem appeared there suddenly. He stood at the entrance and looked on at her with a warm smile. Gopi blushed and looked down at her hands. She heard the click of the door locking and the footsteps getting closer. Her heart began beating faster. She picked up the glass of milk to offer it to Ahemji.

"Ahemji, have some warm milk."

He took the glass.

"Thanks Gopi but not after you drink half of it," said Ahem, placing the glass edge to her lips.

She drank up her half as he looked on then he finished the remainder and placed it back to the side table.

"Finally, I have you all to myself. It was torture not to touch you and our baby," spoke a relieved Ahem as one hand cupped her cheeks and the other was placed on her tummy.

"I missed you too, Ahemji," said Gopi looking at the love reflected in his eyes.

"We have all night and our honeymoon to make up for the lost time. I will start off with a kiss just to tell you that you looked very beautiful in your bridal clothes."

With that, Ahem kissed Gopi every time he removed an item from her, cherishing and loving her along the way.