The grand Rajput mansion was quiet under the cover of night when Arjun finally returned from his long day at the office. The clock had already crossed one in the morning and the corridors were dimly lit with soft golden lamps. Maeyra had spent the evening in a state of quiet dread after the ladies of the house had performed the ritual of adorning the new bride. For seven consecutive nights the women had dressed her beautifully as per tradition to welcome her into the family. She had not wanted any of it but she could not refuse her mother in law and the chachis who had been kind yet firm in their expectations. They had chosen a simple yet elegant cream colored saree with minimal gold zari work for her tonight. The fabric was soft and flowing draped low on her hips exposing a tempting strip of her fair midriff. They had added only minimal jewellery a thin gold chain around her neck small matching earrings and bangles that jingled softly with her movements. No heavy pieces nothing that would overwhelm her delicate frame.