Aditya’s mom glares at me but says nothing. Then, without a word, she turns on her heel and walks out.
As the door closes behind her, Mom reaches for my hand, squeezing it gently. “You did well, beta.”
I exhale slowly, my heart still racing. “She won’t stop trying to put me down, will she?”
Mom smiles softly. “Let her try. What matters is that you know how to stand up for yourself.”
I nod, but I can see the concern still lingering in Mom’s eyes. She takes a deep breath. “Beta, this is what worries me. I just want to be sure that you will be happy in this marriage. Having your in-laws’ support is a part of that.”
I squeeze her hand reassuringly. “Mom, I promise I will win Aditya’s parents’ love and respect. I know it won’t be easy, but I will do my best. Just trust me.”
Mom sighs, nodding slowly. “I do trust you, sweetheart. I just want you to have the happiness and support you deserve.”
And in that moment, I silently vow to do exactly that.
Just then, my phone buzzes. Mom glances at the screen and smiles. “It’s Aditya,” she says. “Take the call, beta. I’ll go get dressed.”
I nod as Mom kisses my forehead before leaving the room. Turning back, I answer softly, “Hey.”
“Hey, sweetheart,” Aditya’s voice is warm, filled with excitement. “Can you believe it? Today’s our day.”
My heart swells at the happiness in his voice. I don’t want to ruin it by bringing up his mom’s visit, so I push the thought aside and focus on him. “I know… it feels like a dream.”
Aditya chuckles. “I’ve been waiting for this moment forever. To finally call you mine in front of everyone.”
I close my eyes, savouring his words. “You already have my heart, Aditya.”
He exhales softly. “And you have mine, completely. I can’t wait to see you. I want to hold you, dance with you, kiss you in front of the world and tell everyone that you’re mine.”
I smile, even though he can’t see it. “You make everything feel so magical. And you always know how to make me feel cherished.”
“Because you are special to me, sweetheart,” he assures me. The sincerity in his voice steals my breath away. I can almost feel his hand reaching out to mine, even over the phone.
A tear slips down my cheek as I close my eyes. “I love you.”
“I love you too,” his voice grows tender. “Don’t make me wait too long. Come soon.”
“I won’t,” I promise, my heart soaring as a steady belief settles within me, filling every part of my being—our love will guide the way, even through the challenges.
Chapter 34
Aditya
I smile, my gaze sweeping over the intimate gathering of close family and friends in my parents’ backyard garden. As expected, the décor is breathtaking—elegant and grand, just the way my parents prefer for their gatherings. Soft golden lights twinkle among the lush greenery, casting a warm glow over the beautifully arranged seating. Floral centrepieces, rich with fresh blooms, adorn every table, while delicate drapes and subtle candlelight add a touch of sophistication.
Standing on the stage, I still find it hard to believe that today is my engagement. Finally, the first step toward making Sana my wife…Mrs. Aditya Thakur.
But amidst all the happiness, my mind keeps drifting back to my conversation with Sana. There was something off in her voice—something impossible to ignore. I felt it, sensed it. Still, I didn’t push. I wanted her to tell me when she was ready. Yet, at the back of my mind, a quiet resolve takes root. If she didn’t speak soon, I would figure it out myself. Because no matter what, I wouldn’t let anything cast a shadow over her happiness.
Taking a deep breath, I glance at my watch, then shift my gaze towards the entrance. But Sana is nowhere to be seen. Astrange unease coils tightly in my chest, and I take another deep breath, steadying myself.Why isn’t Sana here yet?
I try to tell myself that she’ll be here soon, that she must have been held up. But the nagging feeling only grows stronger with each passing moment.Something isn’t right.
Guests continue to come up on stage, offering their congratulations. My parents stand nearby, engaged in conversation with high-profile guests, but I can’t focus on anything. My gaze restlessly scans the crowd, searching for her.Where is she?
“Relax, she’ll be here,” Reyansh says, patting my shoulder, but it does little to settle the unease gnawing at me.
Before I can snap back and tell him to keep his smart-ass mouth shut, the air shifts. Instinctively, my head whips toward the entrance… and my breath catches, my chest tightening as I take her in. Relief floods through me at the sight of her.
