Chapter 1

Tara Aryan sat quietly in her new room, the soft hues of twilight filtering through the curtains. The room, though tastefully decorated, felt foreign to her. She traced her fingers along the delicate embroidery of the bedsheet, a stark contrast to the memories of her parents that lingered in her heart. Just days ago, she had been living a different life, one filled with the laughter and warmth of her family. Now, all she felt was a deep void, a profound sense of loss overshadowed by the weight of her new reality.

She sighed, missing her parents who had given her everything they could in the short time they had. Their love had been unconditional, their support unwavering. Yet here she was, a newlywed in a home that felt more like a stranger's. The marriage had been rushed, a whirlwind of emotions and obligations that left her reeling. Vikram Singhania, her husband, was a name she barely knew, a man she had yet to understand.

The door creaked open, and in walked her mother-in-law, a gentle smile gracing her features. “Tara, dear, how are you settling in?” she asked, her voice laced with warmth.

Tara forced a smile, nodding as she replied, “I’m getting there. Thank you.”

Vikram's mother came closer, her eyes twinkling with affection. “I know this is all new for you, but I assure you, Vikram can be a good man once you get to know him. He’s a bit cold at first, but he has a good heart. Give him time.”

Tara's heart fluttered with a mix of hope and uncertainty. She wanted to believe her mother-in-law's words, but the reality of her husband’s distant demeanor loomed heavily in her mind.

After a few moments of comforting chatter, Vikram’s mother left the room, leaving Tara alone once more. The silence pressed against her like a heavy blanket, and she felt a familiar twinge of sadness creeping back in. She missed her parents, their laughter, their guidance. She took a deep breath and tried to remind herself that she was starting a new chapter, even if it felt more like a reluctant page turn than a fresh start.

Just then, she heard the sound of wheels turning and looked toward the door. Vikram entered, his expression unreadable. He maneuvered his wheelchair with ease but seemed to carry an air of detachment. Tara felt a mix of nervousness and determination as she stood to greet him.

“Mr. Singhania,” she said softly, attempting to break the ice.

He glanced at her, a flicker of acknowledgment in his eyes before he turned away, focusing on the room instead. Tara watched as he struggled slightly to adjust his position, his expression darkening in frustration.

“Do you need help?” she offered, stepping forward.

“No,” he replied sharply, a hint of annoyance in his tone. “I can manage.”

Tara took a step back, a mixture of disappointment and hurt washing over her. Vikram’s coldness was like a wall, pushing her away when all she wanted was to connect.

“Okay,” she said quietly, unsure of what to say next.

He suddenly turned his gaze to her, and she noticed a flash of vulnerability behind his stern facade. “Listen, Tara,” he began, his voice steady but harsh, “this isn’t going to be easy. I don’t want you to get any wrong ideas. I’m not looking for a partner; I need someone to fulfill a role. You need to understand that.”

His words stung, and Tara's heart sank. She felt a whirlwind of emotions—confusion, sadness, and even a hint of anger. She took a deep breath, trying to remain composed. “I understand,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

But as he looked away, she could see the inner turmoil he was trying to hide. He might not want her, but she was determined to show him that she could be more than just a name on a marriage certificate.

The tension hung in the air as they both sat in silence, lost in their thoughts. Tara knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but she was ready to face it. After all, she had always believed that love could bloom even in the most unlikely of places.

As night fell, Tara stared out the window, her heart filled with hope and uncertainty. She was determined to find her way in this new world, no matter how daunting it seemed.