Book #1 of 'My heart is not mine' series Standalone “Marry Vinay, Aradhya,” Aradhya’s soon-to-be brother-in-law said. “Today itself, on this very wedding altar- marry him.” His words didn’t sound like a joke at all. “Mujhe aise mazak pasand nahi.” [I don’t like such jokes.] “Mai majak kar bhi nahi raha hoon.” Shivang replied. “Aapko kya lagta hai, aapke kehne par mai jhat se raazi ho jaungi? Bhuliye mat, ki aap mere behan ke hone wale pati ke alawa- mere kuch aur nahi lagte.” [Do you really think I’ll agree so easily just because you said so? Don’t forget, apart from being my sister’s soon-to-be husband, you are nothing to me.] With a smirk, Shivang said, “Aur mai kahu ki tum khud apni marzi se shadi ke liye raazi hogi… toh?” [And what if I say that you’ll agree to this marriage willingly?] Aradhya frowned in confusion. “Kya… kya matlab hai aapka?” [What… what do you mean?] Shivang’s face remained blank as he said, “Vinay se shadi karo, warna mai tumhari behan se shadi tod dunga.” [Marry Vinay, or I will break off my marriage with your sister.] A few moments later, Aradhya finally spoke. “Thik hai, mai karungi aapke dost se shadi. Par pehle meri shartein toh sunlijiye… jija ji.” [Fine. I’ll marry your friend. But first, listen to my conditions… brother-in-law.] She said the last words with extra emphasis. --- A little later, Aradhya entered the temple. And there, standing in front of her, was Vinay. The moment he saw her, he lowered his eyes, as if guilt was written all over his face. He stepped forward and held his hand out for her. But when Aradhya didn’t take it, Vinay said softly, “Tham lo, marte dam tak nahi chhorunga- hath bhi aur sath bhi.” [Hold my hand. I won’t leave you till my last breath-neither your hand, nor your side.] For the first time, Aradhya looked straight into Vinay’s eyes.