Author's Note
Dear Readers,
Thank you for diving into this heartfelt romance novel with Rudra and Anaya. Their story explores love, duty, and the complexities of relationships within a family bound by tradition and responsibility. This chapter reflects the unspoken emotions, the quiet battles, and the yearning for connection that define their journey.
Your support and love mean everything to me. Every like, comment, and share encourages me to craft their story with more passion and depth. Did you feel the tension and vulnerability between Rudra and Anaya? I'd love to hear your thoughts—what moments stood out to you the most?
Stay connected and share your feedback on my social media platforms!
📸 Instagram: @psole23.words
📌 Pinterest: @enolaths_17
🎥 YouTube: @enolaths_17
Let's unravel this love story together. Your encouragement means the world and helps bring these characters to life. Keep supporting, and don't forget to follow me for updates, sneak peeks, and more romance-filled tales.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with Anaya and Rudra! To keep the story flowing smoothly, here's the schedule for the upcoming chapter uploads:
📅 *Mondays*: 07:00 AM UTC
📅 *Thursdays*: 07:00 AM UTC
📅 *Saturdays*: 16:00 PM UTC
With gratitude and love,
~PENOLA.S
✑❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒❅
Before Ria could respond, there was a soft knock at the door. Both siblings turned to see Anaya hesitantly stepping inside. Her gaze flicked between the two of them, lingering on Rudra with a mixture of concern and resolve.
"Sorry to interrupt," Anaya said quietly, though her voice carried an underlying strength. "But we need to talk, Rudra. And this time, you can't ignore me."
Rudra's expression shifted back to its usual guardedness, the vulnerability he'd shown moments ago disappearing. "If this is about the company—"
"It's about everything," Anaya interrupted, stepping closer. "The company, the family, you. You've been running from everyone who's trying to help you, and it's time for that to stop."
Rudra stared at her, his jaw tightening. "I don't need a lecture."
"And I'm not here to give one," Anaya replied sharply. "But I am here to remind you that this isn't just your burden to carry. You're not alone, Rudra. Whether you like it or not, we're all in this together."
Ria glanced between the two of them, sensing the tension but also the unspoken understanding in their words. She decided to step back, giving them the space they needed. "I'll be outside," she said softly, slipping out of the room and closing the door behind her.
Inside, Rudra folded his arms across his chest, his gaze locked on Anaya. "You're very bold today," he remarked, a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "What happened to the quiet intern who kept her head down?"
Anaya didn't flinch at his words. Instead, she met his gaze head-on, her eyes steady. "She learned that sometimes, staying quiet doesn't solve anything. You might think shutting people out makes you stronger, but all it does is isolate you. And if you keep doing that, you're going to lose everything that matters."
Rudra's expression hardened, but Anaya saw the faintest flicker of doubt in his eyes. She took a step closer, her voice softening. "I know you're scared, Rudra. I can see it. But you don't have to do this alone. You have me, Ria, the whole family. Let us help you."
For a moment, Rudra didn't say anything. The silence stretched between them, heavy and charged. But then he let out a long breath, his shoulders slumping slightly. "You think it's that easy?" he asked, his voice low. "You think just because you're all here, everything will magically get better?"
"No," Anaya said firmly. "But I know it'll be impossible if you keep pushing us away. We're stronger together, Rudra. You taught me that."
Her words seemed to hit something deep within him. Rudra's gaze softened, the walls he had built around himself beginning to crumble, brick by brick.
"You really believe that?" he asked, almost as if he were testing her.
Anaya nodded, her voice unwavering. "I do. And I'll keep believing it, even when you don't."
Rudra looked at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers for something he couldn't quite name. Finally, he exhaled, the tension in his posture easing just a fraction.
"Fine," he said quietly. "I'll try. But don't expect miracles overnight."
Anaya's lips curved into a small, relieved smile. "I'm not expecting miracles, Rudra. Just a little faith."
As she turned to leave, Rudra's voice stopped her. "Anaya."
She glanced back, her heart skipping at the rare vulnerability in his tone.
"Thank you," he said, his words almost a whisper.
Anaya's smile widened, warmth flooding her chest. "Always," she replied before slipping out of the room.
Outside, Ria was waiting, her arms crossed as she leaned against the wall. She straightened when she saw Anaya emerge, a questioning look in her eyes.
"Well?" Ria asked.
"He's listening," Anaya said simply. "It's a start."
Ria let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Good. Because this family can't afford to lose him."
Anaya nodded, her resolve strengthening. Together, they would find a way to bring Rudra back—not just for the company, but for the family they all held so dear.
____....____.....____.....____.....____....____.....____.....____
As Anaya and Ria stood in the hallway, the distant hum of conversations from the house filled the silence. The weight of their mission lingered in the air, but for the first time, there was a sliver of hope.
Ria touched Anaya's arm gently. "You did great in there. I know it's not easy getting through to him."
Anaya gave a small smile, though her eyes betrayed her lingering worry. "It's just a start. He's still holding back, Ria. But at least he's willing to try."
"That's more than we've had in weeks," Ria admitted. She straightened, determination sparking in her expression. "Now we need to capitalize on it. Ravi mentioned the board is getting restless. If we don't present a unified front soon, they might start making decisions without Rudra's input."
Anaya's brows knitted together in concern. "What about Aarav? Have you been able to reach him?"
Ria shook her head, frustration clear on her face. "Not yet. He's probably trying to distance himself from all of this, like he always does when things get messy. But we'll need him too. The Rajawat family isn't backing down, and they're stirring up trouble in every direction. If Aarav doesn't step in soon, this whole situation could spiral out of control."
Anaya hesitated before speaking. "Maybe I should try talking to Aarav. He... He might listen to me."
Ria raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "You think so?"
"I'm not sure," Anaya admitted. "But it's worth a shot. He's always been kinder to me than most, and if there's even a small chance I can convince him to come back, I have to take it."
Ria's expression softened. "You're braver than you realize, Anaya. Rudra may not always show it, but he trusts you. And if anyone can convince Aarav, it's you."
Anaya nodded, steeling herself. "I'll find him. And while I do that, you focus on stabilizing things here. We can't let the board or the media see any cracks in our foundation."
"Agreed," Ria said firmly. She stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Anaya's shoulder. "We'll get through this, Anaya. Together."
Anaya managed a small smile, drawing strength from Ria's confidence. "Together."
As Ria headed back toward the family's central office, Anaya turned in the opposite direction, her mind already racing with plans to track down Aarav. She knew it wouldn't be easy—Aarav had a knack for disappearing when things got tough—but she was determined to find him.
In the sprawling Singhaniya estate, Anaya made her way toward the gardens, where Aarav often went to escape the chaos of family life. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manicured lawns, and the scent of blooming flowers filled the air.
Sure enough, as she rounded the hedge-lined pathway, she spotted Aarav sitting on a stone bench beneath the shade of a large oak tree. He was hunched forward, his elbows resting on his knees, staring at the ground with a troubled expression.
Anaya approached cautiously, her footsteps light against the gravel path. "Aarav?" she called softly.
He looked up, surprise flickering across his face before it was quickly masked by indifference. "Anaya. What are you doing here?"
She stopped a few feet away, her hands clasped in front of her. "Looking for you. We need to talk."
Aarav sighed, leaning back against the bench. "Let me guess. Ria sent you to drag me back into the mess, didn't she?"
"No one sent me," Anaya said gently. "I came because I thought you might need someone to talk to. And because we need you, Aarav. The family needs you."
He let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "The family. Always the family. And what about me, Anaya? Does anyone care what I need?"
Anaya's heart ached at the pain in his voice. She stepped closer, her gaze unwavering. "I care, Aarav. That's why I'm here. I know this isn't easy for you, and I know you've been carrying your own burdens. But running away won't make them disappear."
Aarav looked at her, his defenses faltering for a moment. "You don't understand, Anaya. Rudra's the golden child, the one who always has to be in control. And then there's me, the one who can't measure up. Why should I keep fighting for a place in a family that doesn't see me?"
Anaya knelt down in front of him, forcing him to meet her eyes. "You're wrong, Aarav. They do see you. I see you. And so does Ria. You're just as important as Rudra, and this family wouldn't be the same without you. We're all struggling right now, but we can't face this without you."
For a long moment, Aarav said nothing, his eyes searching hers for sincerity. Finally, he let out a shaky breath. "I don't know if I can do it, Anaya. I'm not like Rudra. I don't have his strength."
"You have your own strength," Anaya said firmly. "And that's exactly what we need. Come back, Aarav. Not for Rudra, or Ria, or anyone else. Come back for yourself."
Aarav stared at her, the weight of her words sinking in. Slowly, he nodded. "Okay. I'll try."
Anaya smiled, relief flooding through her. "That's all we need. One step at a time."
As they stood and began walking back toward the house, Anaya felt a renewed sense of hope. The road ahead was still uncertain, but with Ria, Rudra, and now Aarav by her side, she knew they could face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would protect their family—and each other—no matter the cost.
____❈____....____❈____....____❈____....____❈____....____❈____....____❈____
As Komal Singhaniya, I've always believed in the importance of tradition. For generations, our family rituals have been the foundation of our strength, unity, and legacy. And as I sit in the warmth of my room, the crisp air of January outside, I can't help but think about how this year started differently. It's already the third week of the new year, and we've yet to perform the Suryavanshi Ritual, a Singhaniya tradition that has stood the test of time.
But how could we? My family has been tangled in webs of secrets, misunderstandings, and distances we cannot measure. And yet, traditions are what pull us back together.
I called Anaya to my room this morning. The girl has a way of bringing peace to the storm, though she doesn't realize it yet. As she entered, her polite knock and quiet demeanor warmed my heart. She's still adjusting, still unsure of her place in this vast family, but I've seen her strength. It's time she realizes it too.
"Anaya, come in, my child," I said, gesturing for her to sit beside me on the divan. She wore a soft expression, her hands nervously clasped together as if she expected a reprimand. But I wasn't angry—just thoughtful.
"Grandmom, is everything all right?" she asked, her gentle voice tinged with concern.
I reached out and took her hand in mine, the skin of hers smooth and young, mine wrinkled with years of wisdom and worry. "Everything will be, but only if we start putting things in order. Do you know what time of year it is?"
She tilted her head slightly, unsure of my direction. "The new year has started..."
"Yes, my dear," I interrupted, "and with it comes our family's most important tradition—the New Year's Singhaniya Ritual. It's been over a month since you and Rudra entered this family, and it's time for you to take your place in this legacy."
Her eyes widened slightly. "But, Grandmom, I… I'm still learning. I don't know if I'm ready for something so important."
"Nonsense," I said firmly, though with warmth. "The ritual isn't about perfection, Anaya. It's about intent, about setting the tone for the year ahead. This family is built on traditions, and as Rudra's wife, you have a duty to uphold them. But more than that, you have a chance to bring us together."
She looked down for a moment, her brow furrowed in thought. "What exactly does the ritual involve?"
I smiled. "The Suryavanshi Ritual is a celebration of light and prosperity. You and Rudra will lead the family in offering prayers, lighting the ceremonial diya, and performing the blessings for the household. It's a way to honor our ancestors and seek their guidance for the year ahead."
Her hesitation was evident, and I could see the wheels turning in her mind. "Grandmom, Rudra and I… we're still figuring things out. He's distant, and I don't know if he'll even agree to this."
I squeezed her hand gently. "That's precisely why this ritual is important. It's an opportunity for you to stand beside him, to show him and the rest of the family the strength of your bond. And if he's hesitant, remind him that this isn't just about the two of you—it's about all of us."
She nodded slowly, her resolve hardening. "You're right. I'll do it. I'll talk to him."
"That's the spirit," I said, my heart swelling with pride. "You have more strength than you realize, Anaya. And remember, you're not alone in this. The family stands with you, even if some of us forget to show it."
As she stood to leave, I called out one last reminder. "And Anaya, don't forget to wear the ancestral saree for the ritual. It's in the chest in the main hall. It'll remind Rudra of the responsibility we all bear—and the beauty of keeping traditions alive."
She turned, a small but determined smile on her lips. "I'll make sure it's perfect, Grandmom."
Watching her leave, I felt a flicker of hope. This family has endured storms before, and with Anaya's quiet strength, I believe we'll weather this one too. Traditions may be old, but they hold the power to mend what's broken—and I'll make sure my family remembers that.
AS Time passed~
Komal stood at the head of the dining table after dinner, her voice steady yet commanding as she addressed the family. The soft light of the chandeliers added warmth to the room, but there was a heaviness in the air. "Tomorrow morning," she began, looking at each member of the family, "we will all gather in the house temple at 8 a.m. sharp. The New Year has begun, and it is time for the Suryavanshi family ritual. This tradition has been upheld for generations. No one is to be late."
Her gaze lingered on Ria, Aarav, and Misha, who exchanged glances. Ria, always quick to challenge, opened her mouth to protest, but Komal's raised hand silenced her. "No excuses," Komal continued firmly. "This is not just a ritual. It's a reminder of our bond as a family, of the promises we make to one another and to our ancestors." She turned her attention to Anaya, who was sitting quietly beside Rudra. "Anaya, you and Rudra will lead the prayers. You'll wear the ancestral saree. It's kept in the main hall chest."
Anaya nodded, her voice soft but respectful. "Yes, Grandmom." Komal's gaze shifted to Rudra, who had been silent throughout the conversation. "And you, Rudra. Make sure you're there. You know the importance of this ritual." Rudra gave a slight nod, but his eyes were distant, as if his mind was elsewhere.
Later that night, Anaya approached Rudra in their bedroom. He was pacing near the window, his sleeves rolled up and his tie loosened. The faint light of the city outside reflected on his tense expression. "Rudra," Anaya said hesitantly, "Grandmom has asked everyone to be in the temple by 8 a.m. for the ritual. She said we're supposed to lead the prayers." Rudra stopped and looked at her briefly, his dark eyes clouded with frustration. "I know," he said curtly, turning back to the window.
Anaya stepped closer, her voice softer now. "Is everything alright?" He didn't respond. Instead, he grabbed his coat and moved toward the door. "Rudra, I'm just—" "I have work," he interrupted, his tone sharp but not loud. Without another word, he left the room, leaving Anaya standing there, her heart heavy with unanswered questions.
The house was alive with activity as the clock approached 8 a.m. The faint scent of incense wafted through the halls, blending with the aroma of fresh flowers that adorned the temple. Anaya stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the pleats of the ancestral saree Komal had mentioned. The deep red fabric with golden embroidery was stunning, but it felt like a weight she wasn't sure she could carry. "You look beautiful," Ria said, peeking into the room. Her tone was a mix of admiration and teasing.
"Thank you," Anaya replied with a small smile, though her hands still trembled slightly. "Don't be nervous," Ria added. "Grandmom's bark is worse than her bite. Besides, Rudra will be there with you." Anaya's smile faltered at the mention of Rudra. He hadn't returned home since leaving the previous night, and she hadn't heard from him.
In the temple, the family began to gather. Komal sat near the diya, her sharp eyes scanning the room as the minutes ticked closer to 8 a.m. "Where's Rudra?" she asked, her tone calm but laced with disappointment. Dev sighed, shaking his head. "He didn't come home last night. I don't know what's keeping him so busy, but this is becoming a habit." Rakhi, seated beside him, added softly, "He's under so much pressure with the company, Ma. But I agree, he should've been here." Aarav chimed in, his voice edged with frustration. "This isn't the first time. Work is important, but family comes first. He knows that."
Misha looked toward Anaya, who was sitting quietly, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. "Did he say anything to you?" she asked. Anaya hesitated, her voice barely above a whisper. "He… didn't say much. He left last night and hasn't come back." Komal's expression hardened, but before she could respond, the sound of footsteps echoed through the corridor.
All heads turned as Rudra entered the temple. He was still in his office attire, his tie slightly askew and dark circles under his eyes. The tension in his shoulders was visible, but his face was composed. "You're late," Komal said sharply. "I'm here now," Rudra replied evenly, his tone calm but firm. Anaya's heart skipped a beat when his gaze briefly met hers. There was something unreadable in his eyes—an apology, perhaps, or a silent acknowledgment of her presence.
Komal gestured for the ritual to begin, her disappointment evident but unspoken. "Let's not delay any further." As Rudra and Anaya took their places at the front, Anaya couldn't help but notice how his presence, though late, seemed to anchor the room. Despite the weight he carried, he had come. And for that, she felt a small glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.
______________✥______________✥______________✥______________✥______________
The priest began the rituals, chanting mantras as the sound of the bell resonated through the temple. The air was heavy with the scent of incense and flowers, a solemn yet peaceful atmosphere enveloping the family. Anaya stood beside Rudra, her hands folded in prayer. The golden glow of the diya illuminated her face, and the ancestral saree added to her grace. She stole a glance at Rudra, who stood with his eyes closed, his features sharp and unreadable.
Her mind raced with thoughts, questions that she didn't dare voice. Was he here out of obligation or something more? Did he feel the same heaviness in the air as she did?
Komal's voice broke through her thoughts as the priest instructed Rudra and Anaya to perform the aarti together. "Hold this," Rudra said softly, handing Anaya the silver lamp. His fingers briefly brushed hers, sending a shiver down her spine. They moved in unison, circling the diya while the family watched. Komal's stern expression softened slightly, though her eyes remained focused on Rudra.
After the rituals concluded, the family gathered around the temple, discussing the importance of the day. Komal's voice carried authority as she addressed everyone. "Today isn't just about tradition. It's a reminder of our duties to one another, to this family. Rudra, I hope you understand the significance of this."
Rudra nodded but didn't respond verbally. Dev stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "Rudra, we're all aware of the pressures you face, but this isn't just about work. Family is what holds us together, and you need to be present—not just physically, but emotionally."
Rakhi added gently, "Your father always balanced his responsibilities to the company and the family. You've taken on so much, but you can't shoulder everything alone, beta."
Rudra's jaw tightened, his gaze fixed on the ground. Anaya noticed the subtle clench of his fists, the tension radiating from him. She wanted to speak, to defend him, but she knew her place. This wasn't her moment to intervene.
Ria, never one to hold back, chimed in. "Rudra bhaiya, we miss you. It's like you're here but not really here, you know? Even Anaya bhabhi probably feels the same." Her words hung in the air, drawing everyone's attention to Anaya.
Caught off guard, Anaya hesitated before replying. "I… I think Rudra is doing his best. The responsibilities he carries aren't easy." Her voice was soft but steady, and she hoped her words would ease some of the tension.
Komal's sharp gaze shifted to Rudra. "Your wife speaks highly of you, Rudra. Don't make her words go in vain." Her tone was a mixture of expectation and warning.
Rudra finally looked up, his eyes meeting Komal's. "I understand, Dadi. I'll try to do better." His voice was low but sincere, a hint of vulnerability breaking through his otherwise stoic demeanor.
As the family dispersed, returning to their routines, Rudra lingered near the temple. Anaya approached him cautiously, her heart pounding. "Rudra," she began hesitantly, "are you okay?"
He turned to her, his eyes softening just a fraction. "I'm fine," he replied, though the weight in his tone suggested otherwise. "You don't need to worry about me."
"But I do," Anaya said, surprising even herself with her boldness. "You've been carrying so much alone. If there's anything I can do…"
Rudra looked at her for a long moment, as if trying to decipher her intentions. "You're already doing enough," he said finally, his voice softer now. "Thank you."
Anaya wanted to say more, to bridge the growing gap between them, but the moment passed as Rudra walked away, leaving her standing alone in the glow of the temple lights.