"Bonds of Friendship and Family"

The late afternoon sun poured into the Singhaniya mansion's living hall, casting a warm, golden light across the polished marble floors and richly upholstered furniture. The grandeur of the room, with its high ceilings and elaborate decor, was something Anaya was slowly getting accustomed to. Everything about the Singhaniya mansion spoke of tradition, history, and a deep-rooted legacy that now included her.

Anaya sat comfortably on one of the plush sofas, her legs tucked under her, as she listened to Ria chatter excitedly beside her. It felt good to relax and enjoy some lighthearted conversation after the whirlwind of her wedding the night before. Ria had quickly become a friend, and in this vast, imposing mansion, having someone to talk to like they were old friends was a comfort Anaya hadn't realized she needed.

"You know," Ria began, her tone a mix of excitement and apprehension, "our college classes start next week. I'm actually kind of excited to get back, even though it feels like everything's changed."

Anaya smiled, nodding in agreement. "I know what you mean. Going back to class will be a nice return to something normal. After all the chaos, it'll be good to have a routine again."

Ria's expression turned thoughtful as she leaned back against the sofa cushions. "But before that, there's the matter of internships," she said, her voice growing more serious. "I've been thinking… maybe we should do our internships at Singhaniya Enterprises. It's the family company, and it would be an amazing opportunity to learn about the business. Plus, we'd be able to apply everything we've been studying."

Anaya's interest was piqued. The idea of working at Singhaniya Enterprises had crossed her mind, especially given the company's prominence and its dual focus on technology and the international hotel industry. It was a powerhouse in both fields, and interning there would be a dream come true for anyone studying business and technology. But there was also the matter of actually securing the internship.

"That would be incredible," Anaya said, her voice tinged with excitement. "But I've heard that getting an internship at Singhaniya Enterprises isn't easy. The interview process is really tough."

Ria nodded, her expression a mix of determination and uncertainty. "Yeah, I've heard the same. The interview is rigorous, and they don't just let anyone in, even if they're family. My brother, Rudra, has always been very particular about who gets to work at the company, especially in the tech division. He doesn't play favorites."

Anaya's excitement wavered slightly at the mention of Rudra. Her new husband was an enigma to her—cold, distant, and difficult to read. The idea of approaching him for help with the internship was daunting, to say the least.

"Your brother is like a rock," Anaya said, half-joking, but there was a nervous edge to her voice. "I mean, he's so… hard to talk to. I'm afraid he'll say no or, worse, just stare at me until I give up."

Ria laughed, though there was sympathy in her eyes. "Trust me, I know what you mean. He can be really intimidating. I've lived with him my whole life, and I still get nervous when I have to ask him for something important. But he's not impossible to talk to, once you get past the initial… frostiness."

Anaya nodded, though her confidence hadn't entirely returned. "I'll ask him about the internship, but maybe not right away. It's only the first day of our marriage, after all. I think I'll wait until the last possible moment—maybe the day before the internship starts."

Ria grinned at Anaya's playful tone. "That sounds like a plan. We'll psych ourselves up, and then we can both ask him together if we have to."

The two young women shared a laugh, the sound echoing softly in the grand room. Despite the imposing surroundings, their conversation felt like a slice of normalcy—a continuation of the friendship they had started in college. It was easy to forget, for a moment, the complexities of Anaya's new life and the responsibilities that came with it.

Just as their laughter began to die down, the sound of approaching footsteps drew their attention. Both women looked up to see Komal and Rakhi entering the living hall. The atmosphere shifted slightly as the two elder women approached, their expressions calm but carrying an air of purpose.

"Anaya," Komal called gently, her voice firm but warm. "We need to speak with you. Please come with us."

Anaya felt a flutter of nerves at the seriousness in Komal's voice. She had come to respect and admire Komal's wisdom and strength, but there was something about the way she spoke now that suggested this was no ordinary conversation.

Ria gave Anaya an encouraging nod, her smile reassuring. "Don't worry," she whispered, leaning close. "It'll be fine."

Anaya returned the gesture, feeling a bit of anxiety settle in her stomach as she rose from the sofa. "Of course, Grandma," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

Komal nodded in approval and turned to lead the way, with Rakhi following closely behind. Anaya trailed after them, her mind racing with questions. What could this be about? She had no idea, but she sensed that it was something significant.

They ascended the grand staircase, the soft echo of their footsteps filling the quiet of the mansion. The hallway was bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, casting long shadows on the floor. As they walked, Anaya couldn't help but notice the way Komal and Rakhi moved with such grace and purpose, their every step reflecting the strength and poise that came with their roles in the family.

Anaya's thoughts flickered back to her conversation with Ria about their internships and classes. The idea of pursuing her passion for design had been a bright spot in an otherwise overwhelming time. But now, as she followed Komal and Rakhi, she couldn't help but wonder if this sudden meeting had anything to do with that—or if it was something entirely different.

Komal led them down the hallway to the room Anaya shared with Rudra. The door creaked softly as Komal pushed it open, and she gestured for Anaya to enter first. Anaya hesitated for just a moment before stepping inside, her heart beating a little faster with each passing second.

Once they were all inside, Komal closed the door and turned to face Anaya, her expression calm but serious. There was a sense of purpose in the air, a feeling that something important was about to be discussed.

"Anaya," Komal began, her voice gentle but carrying an unmistakable weight. "I know that you've been going through a lot recently, and that there have been many changes in your life. But there are some important matters we need to address."

Anaya nodded, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She had known that marrying into the Singhaniya family would come with its share of responsibilities, but the reality of it all was still sinking in. The gravity of Komal's words only heightened her sense of unease.

Komal exchanged a brief glance with Rakhi before continuing. "As you know, being a part of the Singhaniya family comes with certain responsibilities," Komal said, her tone firm but not unkind. "One of those responsibilities is to uphold our family's traditions and values, and to carry forward the legacy that has been passed down through generations."

Anaya listened intently, her mind already starting to grasp the gravity of what was being said. She had known from the beginning that marrying into the Singhaniya family would come with expectations, but hearing it put so plainly made her realize just how significant those responsibilities were.

Komal gestured toward Rakhi, who stepped forward and opened a large wardrobe on the far side of the room. The wardrobe, made of richly polished wood, seemed almost out of place in its opulence, yet it fit perfectly within the grandeur of the room. As the doors swung open, Anaya caught her breath at the sight that greeted her.

Inside were shelves filled with beautifully crafted sarees, jewelry, and traditional accessories, each piece more exquisite than the last. The intricate designs, the vibrant colors, and the sparkling gemstones all spoke of a heritage that was both rich and deeply revered. These were not just adornments; they were symbols of a legacy that had been carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

Rakhi began carefully selecting pieces from the wardrobe, her movements precise and deliberate. Each item she chose seemed to carry a story, a piece of history that was now being entrusted to Anaya.

As Rakhi laid out the jewelry on a velvet-lined tray, Komal continued speaking, her tone measured and thoughtful. "These pieces are not just ornaments, Anaya. They are symbols of our family's legacy, passed down through generations. By wearing them, you are embracing the traditions and values that have defined the Singhaniya family for decades."

Anaya felt a wave of emotions as she looked at the jewelry being laid out before her. The pieces were stunning—delicate gold necklaces, intricately designed bangles, and earrings that glittered with precious stones. But beyond their beauty, Anaya understood the deeper meaning they held.

Komal's gaze softened as she watched Anaya take in the significance of the moment. "I know this may seem overwhelming," Komal said gently. "But I want you to know that you are not alone in this. We are here to guide you, to support you as you step into your role as a Singhaniya."

Anaya nodded, her voice catching slightly as she replied, "Thank you, Grandma.

**To be continue..**