15 days later
After coming back from Dehradun, I was constantly putting in countless hours studying for my exams because I had to attend Vayu's passing out parade. It would be a big event, and I wanted to be fully prepared for my exams so I could be there for him without any worries.
I was eager to support him and celebrate this achievement, so I’m focusing intensely on my studies to be able to attend his parade without any stress or distractions.
It was like I'm balancing two very important events—my exams and Vayu's passing out parade. On one hand, my academic future demanded focus and diligence, while on the other, the pride and joy of witnessing such a milestone in his journey drew my heart.
It was a testament to my dedication to both love and ambition.
I was banging my head on the books feeling frustrated when the doorbell rang. I stood up from the chair and made my way towards the door while tying my hairs up in a messy bun.
As I opened the door, a loud familiar voice came.
“Surpriseeeee!” Navi screamed on the top of her lungs, making me shut my ears with my hands.
Before I could decipher anything, she longed forward and almost jumped over me.
“Oh my god!” I gasped trying to balance both of us against the wall.
“How are you bhabhiii!” She asked and pulled away. I sighed and shook my head at her antics.
“I'm good, but tum yahan?” I asked in surprise when she started moving inside.
“Oh haan! I was in Delhi for a case and then I thought of surprising you! Don't you like it?” Her lips formed a pout.
I smiled at her cuteness and said, “C'mon I loved it!”
“So how's your preparation going on?” She asked again sitting on the bed.
“It's great but I'm a bit nervous. I don't know if I could manage my exams and his passing out parade simultaneously.” I said in a low voice.
And honestly things were getting messier after I returned from Dehradoon. I mean it wasn't like I was not prepared for the exams, but I was doubtful about his parade.
“It's not like this bhabhi! You'll ace everything like you did at the ball party.” She motivated me a little.
“You know the preparations are piling up, and with each passing day, the nerves are setting in a little more. I'm overthinking about every detail—what to wear, how to act, what to say. You know it’s not just any event; it’s Vayu’s big day, and I want everything to be perfect.”
She pulled my hand and made me sit on the bed beside her. “Stop doubting yourself and you know it’s not about perfection. It’s about being there, sharing that special moment with him, and supporting him like you always have.”
I smiled at her but still I was not sure.
“Bhabhi, it’s totally normal to feel that way! You care so much about him, and that’s why you’re feeling the pressure. But trust me, just being there will mean the world to him.” She tried to cheer me up and this time I felt much better.
I hugged her tightly and said, “Thank you so much for that. I really needed to hear it and I'm feeling a lot better now.”
She pulled away and forwarded a packet and said, “I brought some snacks and a little gift to cheer you up. C'mon open it.”
I smiled and took the packet from her hands and opened it. It was my favourite pizza and coffee. “You're the best!” I chirped in excitement.
“Say thanks to your Vayu, not me! He asked me to buy you all these!” Navi declared and my eyes shone at the mention of his name.
I was overwhelmed. It was such a simple gesture, but it reminded me how thoughtful and caring he is, even from miles away. It made me feel incredibly loved and spoiled in the best way.
We ate the pizza and shared the coffee before she left for a meeting and I indulged myself back into my books.
The passing out parade was just around the corner, and I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. It was going to be such a big day, and I wanted everything to go perfectly.
I’d started preparing mentally and physically, getting my uniform ready, practising the drills and everything.
The preparations for the parade have been intense but rewarding. Each day brought a new challenge, but I was determined to meet them head-on.
There was also the anticipation of seeing my family and Reya together, which would mean a lot. The countdown has truly begun, and I was doing my best to stay focused and give my all.
I was really excited to see Reya and my parents at the parade. Their presence would mean a lot to me, and I couldn’t wait to share this special moment with them.
Having my loved ones there to celebrate my milestones would make it even more memorable.
And about my Sunflower, I'm incredibly proud of her. I knew she was juggling her exams with the same dedication I’m putting into the parade. We’ve been supporting each other through this busy time, sharing both the stress and the excitement.
And honestly I was looking forward to the parade not just as a personal achievement, but also as a moment when we could both take a break and enjoy a well-deserved celebration together.
The Big Day
As the day of the passing out parade arrived, I was feeling a whirlwind of emotions. There was a strong sense of nervousness—wondering if everything would go as planned and if I would meet my own expectations.
At the same time, there was an undeniable excitement about finally reaching this milestone and seeing my parents after a long period of time.
It was a mix of adrenaline and anticipation, knowing that this moment would be the culmination of all my hard work and preparation.
And today I will finally get to see my Sunflower after a whole period of 15 days.
We both have been so caught up in our own challenges—her exams and my parade prep, that this moment feels like a much-needed pause.
The thought of being together, sharing in this significant day, filled me with a deep sense of joy and relief. I couldn't wait to hold her, celebrate our achievements, and dive into the happiness of finally being reunited after all the hard work.
I was busy in my own thoughts when my Sujal arrived. He shared a brotherly hug and I asked, “Can you believe we're finally here? How are you feeling about the parade today?”
“I know, it’s surreal! I’m a mix of nervous and excited. Can’t wait to see everything come together.” He replied, nervousness clearly visible on his face.
“Same here. I’m a bit nervous too but really looking forward to the big moment. Got my uniform all set, and I hope I remember all the drills.” I chuckled to lighten up the surroundings.
“You know, I’ve been double-checking everything too. Just want it all to go smoothly.” He replied as we started getting ready.
“Absolutely. We’ve got this! Let’s give it our all and enjoy the day.” I concluded as I moved into the bathroom.
The journey to Dehradun was smooth and filled with anticipation. We enjoyed the scenic views of hills and greenery along the way. When we got to the city, it was lively and full of energy, with flags and banners everywhere for the parade. The weather was nice, and the excitement was building.
My in-laws and I felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness as we made our way to the parade venue. The sense of occasion was palpable, and I could hardly wait for the ceremony to begin.
For the occasion, I wore a formal saree. It was a beautiful choice, the choice of my mother in law.
Yes, she gifted me this saree to wear on his special occasion and I felt elegant in it. The saree added a touch of tradition and grace to the day, making it even more memorable.
Attending the passing out parade with my in-laws added another layer of meaning to the day. I could sense their emotions—equal parts pride, relief, and perhaps a tinge of bittersweet nostalgia as they watched their son step into the world as an officer.
My presence in their midst felt like both an honour and a responsibility, to witness this proud moment as part of their family.
When we all arrived at the grand parade ground of IMA, the sight of polished uniforms, the crisp military commands, and the aura of discipline were awe-inspiring. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, and I found myself glancing at my in-laws, who stood tall with glistening eyes.
Their son, soon to be an officer, was no longer just theirs, but someone who would belong to the nation.
As the parade began, the excitement was clear. The band played loudly, and the cadets marched in perfect lines, their uniforms crisp and their steps synchronised. The whole event was impressive and full of meaning.
Maa watched them with a mix of pride and emotion. Her eyes quietly scanned the parade ground, where her child was about to take a monumental step.
As the parade progressed, I noticed her occasionally dabbing at her eyes, trying to hide the tears. Though her face was calm, I could sense the surge of emotions beneath the surface—pride mingled with an ache that only a mother can know.
When I saw Vayu marching into the parade, my heart swelled with pride. He looked confident and his uniform was perfect. As he walked, I felt a mix of joy and admiration. It was clear how much hard work he had put in.
Seeing him like this made me smile and my eyes welled up with tears. It was a special moment, and I felt a surge of emotions. All the hard work, the long-distance challenges, and the sacrifices suddenly felt worth it.
It was a powerful moment of realisation that everything we have both been through had led to this proud achievement. The parade was a celebration of not just his success, but our journey together.
This day marked not just the beginning of a new chapter for Vayu but also for both of us, as we stood together at the edge of a shared future.
The parade ended and the ceremonial sword was handed over, marking the beginning of a military career. I noticed maa’s face softened. She clapped, but I could see it was more than applause.
It was an acknowledgment of a dream fulfilled, a journey completed, and the beginning of a new one—where she will always be proud but now must let go a little more than before.
After the parade, the ceremony continued with a series of significant events. I watched as the cadets received awards for their outstanding achievements, followed by Vayu taking the oath of allegiance and being officially commissioned as an officer.
The speeches from senior officials and dignitaries were inspiring, and then finally, the moment I’d been eagerly awaiting for.
As Vayu strode towards us, he had the biggest smile on his face. As he approached, his eyes sparkled with joy and pride, and I could see the relief and happiness in his expression. He walked with a sense of accomplishment, his uniform pristine and his demeanour radiating confidence.
Our eyes met, and in that instant, we exchanged a thousand words without speaking. His gaze said, "We did it, Sunflower!” and mine responded with, "I’m so proud of you, Vayu!” There was a silent conversation full of love, relief, and admiration.
As he embraced his parents, I saw their eyes glistening with tears of pride, and their smiles were filled with deep emotion. And with a playful grin, he carefully placed his cap on his mother’s head, making everyone laugh.
Papa clapped him on the back and said, “You did it, Captain Kashyap! We’re so proud.”
Maa’s eyes were shining as she hugged him tightly, whispering, “You’ve made us so proud.” and no doubt I was standing there controlling my tears which were ready to roll down my cheeks any moment.
I took lots of pictures of them, capturing these joyful moments. His parents posed with him, and we all laughed and smiled, savouring the day.
Once the photoshoot was done, I finally turned to my Sunflower, standing there in her beautiful saree, and my heart skipped a beat.
The elegance of her attire perfectly matched the grace in her eyes. Her smile was radiant, and as she looked at me, her eyes seemed to say everything we felt—pride, love, and a shared sense of accomplishment.
“Okay Mummy, Papa! Now let me have a moment with my future wife!” I said while my eyes fixed on her.
Her eyes widened at my words and her cheeks blushed with a pink tint. “Himani! Chalo chalo let's give them privacy! My son has grown up now!” Papa spoke up teasingly, making me grin.
The way he understood our love is incredible. Mummy winked at Reya and said, “Enjoy your moment mere bacho!”
When they finally left, I turned to her. Before I could say anything, she patted my chest, “You've become so shameless Kashyap!”
I chuckled and stepped towards her pulling her in my arms. It was like time stood still. We embraced, and her warmth felt like a comforting anchor amidst all the excitement.
Her eyes sparkled with tears of happiness, and I could see the pride and joy reflected in her gaze.
I held her close, and whispered, “Kesa lag raha hu?”
She giggled, bit her lower lip before saying, “Bilkul mera!”
My heart seemed to have caught wings as it fluttered at her response. I cleared my throat and spoke, “I'm on duty, Mrs. Kashyap! Don't distract me with your cheesy words.”
She chuckled, tiptoed herself and pecked my cheeks. “What's up haan? Kabhi future wife, kabhi Mrs. Kashyap.”
“Next would be–general's wife!” I winked at her.
I held her tighter, and continued, “I’m just keeping things exciting, you know? Can’t let you get bored of me already!”
“Oh really?” She smirked.
“But you know ‘Mrs. Kashyap’ sounds best.” I said, holding her close to me.
She smiled back, teasing, "So, how does it feel to finally be an officer?"
I chuckled, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "It feels surreal, but you know what? The best part of this day isn’t the uniform or the ceremony. It’s you, standing here with me. I couldn’t have done it without you."
She blushed, her hands resting gently on my chest. "I’m so proud of you. All those late-night calls, the long-distance, it was all worth it." Her eyes started filling up with tears of happiness.
I leaned in closer, our foreheads almost touching. "Every moment apart only made this moment sweeter. Now, we’re here—together.”
I held her tighter, whispering, "I love you. I always have, and I always will."
With the sun setting behind us, it felt like the beginning of the rest of our lives. We stood there, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that had brought us to this moment.
It was our moment, full of unspoken understanding and deep affection. In that quiet space, away from the crowd, it was just us—celebrating our journey together and the new chapter that lay ahead.
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