It was the day of the engagement, and the Malhotra Mansion buzzed with activity. Guests began to arrive, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Sharda stood at the entrance, gracefully welcoming everyone with a warm smile. From media personalities to Aarav's business colleagues, everyone was eager to be part of this significant day. The business tycoon Aarav Malhotra, who had once scoffed at the idea of love, was getting engaged, and the excitement to meet his bride-to-be was palpable.

Khushi stepped out of the bathroom, her hair still damp, and walked over to the bed where a large bag lay. She unzipped it and pulled out a vibrant lehenga. Her eyes widened in shock as she stared at the outfit. It wasn't the one her parents had selected for her. The colors and design were completely different.

"Yeh shopkeeper itni badi galti kaise kar sakta hai?" she exclaimed, frustration evident in her voice. She couldn't believe the negligence of the shopkeeper on such an important day.

Just then, she heard her father's voice, "Khushi!!"

She turned to find Aarav standing at the door, holding a sherwani that was clearly not the one he had chosen for the occasion. His face mirrored her surprise and frustration. He glanced at the lehenga in her hands and sighed deeply. "Tumhara bhi badal gaya," he said, sharing in her disbelief.

"Haan, Dadda! Aaj ka din toh shuru hone se pehle hi bekaar ho gaya," Khushi said sadly, her shoulders slumping. The morning had barely begun, and already things were going wrong.

Aarav walked into the room, placing the mismatched sherwani on the bed. He gently took the lehenga from Khushi's hands, examining it. "Koi baat nahi, beta," he said softly, trying to reassure her. "Hum isse bhi theek kar lenge."

Khushi looked at her father, her eyes reflecting her disappointment. "Lekin, Dadda, yeh bilkul bhi acha nahi hai. Woh lehenga kitna sundar tha, aur yeh..."

Aarav nodded, understanding her frustration. "Mujhe pata hai, Khushi. Lekin kabhi kabhi humein mushkilein face karni padti hain. Yeh bhi ek choti si mushkil hai. Hum milkar isse bhi solve kar lenge."

Khushi sighed but nodded, trying to muster some optimism. "Aap theek keh rahe ho, Dadda. Hum milkar is problem ko solve karenge."

Aarav smiled, a comforting presence in the midst of the chaos. "Main tumhare saath hoon, Khushi. Humara yeh din bekaar nahi jaane denge."

With a renewed sense of determination, Khushi hugged her father, drawing strength from his support. Together, they would find a way to turn this mishap around and make the day special. As they stepped out to find a solution, the sounds of the ongoing celebration outside reminded them that the day, despite its rocky start, still held the promise of joy and happiness.

As they stepped out, Sharda saw Khushi and Aarav heading somewhere and asked with curiosity, "Aap dono kahan jaa rahe hain?"

"Daadi, meri dress aur Dadda ki sherwani wo nahi hai jo humne select ki thi," Khushi complained, her disappointment palpable.

Sharda looked at them thoughtfully, a plan forming in her mind. "Chaliye mere saath," she said decisively.

Aarav and Khushi followed Sharda to her room, intrigued by her sudden determination. She opened her wardrobe and pulled out a carefully wrapped box. Undoing the wrapping, she lifted out a beautiful sherwani. Holding it out to Aarav, she said tenderly, "Aarav, yeh sherwani maine apni beti ke pati ke liye banwayi thi saalon pehle, lekin kabhi wo din aaya hi nahi. Tum yeh pehen lo."

Aarav was deeply moved by her gesture. "Kaki... meri wajah se aapki beti ki maut ho gayi aur aap mujhe yeh de rahi hain," he said, his voice thick with emotion as memories of Anika's tragic death because of Maya flooded his mind.

Sharda smiled warmly at him, her eyes reflecting understanding and compassion. "Maya ne uski jaan li thi, tumne nahi. Anika hoti toh wo bhi yahi chahti," she reassured him softly.

Khushi, who had been standing quietly, finally spoke up with a hint of playful complaint, "Aapne Dadda ki problem ka solution nikal diya! Mera kya?"

Sharda chuckled affectionately. "Tumhare liye bhi hai mere paas."

She reached back into the wardrobe and retrieved a vibrant lehenga. "Yeh maine tumhare janamdin ke liye khareed ke rakha tha. Ab ise tum apne Dadda ki engagement ke liye pehen lo," she said, handing it to Khushi.

Khushi's eyes sparkled with delight as she took the lehenga from Sharda's hands.

Khushi's eyes widened in delight as she took the lehenga from Sharda's hands, admiring its intricate details and beautiful colors. She couldn't help but smile broadly. "Wow, Daadi! Yeh kitna sundar hai. Thank you so much!"

Sharda smiled affectionately at Khushi. "Tumhari khushi mein hi meri khushi hai, beta."

Khushi hugged Sharda tightly, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude and love for the woman who had become not just her grandmother but a pillar of strength and support. Aarav, watching the scene unfold, felt a profound sense of gratitude towards Sharda for her unwavering love and care for his family.

Aarav watched the exchange with a heart full of gratitude. He felt a surge of affection and respect for Sharda, who had stood by him and his family through thick and thin. "Kaki, aap hamare liye kitna karti hain. Main kaise shukriya ada karun?" he said, his voice choked with emotion.

Sharda patted Khushi's back gently and then turned to Aarav, her expression serene. "Mera shukriya tab hoga jab tum dono khush raho aur apne nayi zindagi mein aage badho."

Aarav nodded, his resolve strengthening. With Sharda's blessings and support, he felt ready to face any challenge. He took the sherwani and smiled, "Main ise fakhar se pehnunga."

As Khushi admired the lehenga, her earlier frustration melted away, replaced by excitement and anticipation for the engagement. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the lehenga symbolized a new beginning, one that promised happiness and togetherness.

Together, they prepared for the engagement, their hearts filled with warmth and hope, unaware of the storm that Maya's return would soon bring. For now, they were united, their bond stronger than ever, ready to face the joyous day ahead.

Aarav and Khushi got ready in their respective attire and walked down the hall, joining the guests who had gathered for the engagement ceremony. Aarav's anticipation was palpable; his eyes were fixed on the door, eager to catch the first glimpse of Manvi.

Khushi, ever observant of her father's excitement, couldn't resist teasing him gently. "Dadda, thodi der aur aati hogi Mumma," she teased with a playful grin.

Aarav couldn't help but smile at Khushi's remark. Her teasing brought a lightness to his heart amid the nervous excitement he felt. He looked down at Khushi affectionately and replied, "Haan, beta. Mujhe toh lag raha hai samay hi nahi guzar raha."

Khushi chuckled, delighted to see her father in such high spirits. She knew how much this day meant to him after all the trials and challenges they had faced together. "Dadda, aap bilkul romantic ban gaye hain," she teased further, earning a warm laugh from Aarav.

They continued walking towards the gathering of guests, their bond strengthened by the shared moments of joy and anticipation. Aarav's heart swelled with gratitude for the happiness that was finally within reach, and Khushi couldn't be prouder to witness her father embracing this new chapter in his life.

Just then, Manvi entered the room, and as Aarav caught sight of her, he found himself unable to look away. She looked stunning in a dark blue lehenga, her hair flowing freely down her back. The minimal makeup accentuated her natural beauty and added to her elegant appearance.

Aarav was mesmerized by her presence, his gaze locked on her as she moved gracefully through the room. He couldn't help but admire how radiant she looked, every bit the vision he had imagined for this special day. Her smile, her poise—it all captivated him, filling his heart with a mixture of joy and awe.

Khushi, standing beside Aarav, noticed his enamored expression and nudged him playfully. "Dadda, ab aapke toh bas chale toh aap Mumma ko hi dekhte rahein," she whispered teasingly, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes.

Aarav chuckled softly, torn momentarily from his reverie. He glanced at Khushi with a sheepish smile, feeling slightly embarrassed but unable to contain his happiness. "Khushi, tum bhi na," he replied fondly, his eyes drifting back to Manvi.

Manvi, sensing their exchange, looked towards Aarav and Khushi, her own eyes sparkling with love and anticipation. She walked towards them, a gentle smile on her lips, her heart filled with happiness to see Aarav's adoring gaze fixed upon her.

As she approached, Aarav extended his hand towards her, unable to hide his delight. "Tum bohot khoobsurat lag rahi ho, Manvi," he said softly, his voice filled with admiration and love.

Manvi blushed, feeling a rush of warmth at his words. She took his hand in hers, their fingers intertwining as they shared a moment of quiet connection amidst the bustling celebration around them. "Thank you, Aaravji," she replied sincerely, her gaze meeting his with equal affection.

Khushi watched her parents with a heart full of happiness, a bright smile lighting up her face as she took in the moment. The engagement ceremony was not just a formality; it marked a new chapter brimming with love and togetherness. Aarav and Manvi stood side by side, their expressions radiant as they embraced the joy of the day, surrounded by family and friends. The air was filled with laughter and warmth, a cocoon of support and celebration that wrapped around them.

As Manvi noticed that Aarav and Khushi were both wearing different outfits than they had initially chosen, she raised an eyebrow playfully. Aarav explained with a chuckle that a mix-up had occurred, but his easy demeanor suggested he wasn't too bothered by it.

"Aap iss sherwani mein aur bhi zyada handsome dikh rahe hain, Aaravji," Manvi said sincerely, her smile brightening the room.

Aarav's smile widened at her compliment, gratitude radiating from him. He felt reassured, embraced by Manvi's genuine affection. Then Manvi turned her attention to Khushi, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Tum ek dum princess lag rahi ho," she said, admiring Khushi in the lehenga Sharda had chosen for her.

Khushi's cheeks flushed with joy, her heart swelling at the praise. She felt special and loved, the essence of the day wrapping around her like a comforting blanket.

"Chaliye, bahut ho gayi tareef! Ab zara engagement ceremony kar lete hain," Manvi suggested eagerly, ready to put the wardrobe mishap behind them and focus on the celebration ahead.

Just then, a media person nearby overheard their conversation and boldly intruded, "Toh yeh baat sach hai! Aapka aur Manvi ji ka affair tha..."

The smile instantly vanished from Manvi's face, shock and dismay crossing her features at the unexpected and inappropriate question.

In an instant, the smile faded from Manvi's face, shock and disbelief etching themselves across her features at the unexpected and inappropriate question. Aarav's expression transformed, his protective instincts kicking in. He glared at the reporter, his voice sharp and filled with righteous indignation. "How dare you! Bina sach jaane kisi pe ilzaam kaise laga sakte ho?"

Manvi, sensing the tension rising, placed a gentle hand on Aarav's arm, shaking her head subtly. She didn't want this moment to be marred by unnecessary conflict.

Taking a deep breath, Aarav looked back at her, his anger momentarily subdued by her calming presence. He turned his attention to the media person again, his voice steady but firm. "Please understand, today is about our engagement. We expect respect for our privacy and our happiness," he stated, his words carrying a quiet authority that demanded respect.

The reporter, realizing the seriousness of Aarav's response, nodded in understanding, backing off, the audacity of his question fading in the face of Aarav's conviction.

Together, Aarav and Manvi turned towards the engagement ceremony, their hearts filled with love and determination to cherish this day and the beginning of their new journey together.

As the reporter's insensitive question hung in the air, Aarav's expression hardened with resolve. He exchanged a meaningful glance with his manager, who stood nearby, ready to act on Aarav's silent signal.

Without hesitation, the manager swiftly motioned to a couple of Aarav's office staff who were discreetly stationed around the venue. Understanding the urgency and seriousness of the situation, they quickly moved towards the reporter, ensuring they handled the matter with utmost professionalism but firmness.

The atmosphere in the mansion shifted slightly as the office staff escorted the reporter out of the main gathering area. The reporter, taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, tried to protest, but the determined expressions of Aarav's employees left no room for negotiation. With respectful yet firm gestures, they guided him towards the exit.

Outside, away from the celebratory atmosphere of the engagement, the manager addressed the reporter sternly. "Kalse tum koi reporting nahi kar paoge," he stated firmly, making it clear that such unverified and intrusive questions would not be tolerated, especially when it concerned Aarav and Manvi's personal lives.

The reporter, realizing the gravity of the situation, nodded reluctantly. He understood the consequences of crossing boundaries and vowed silently to exercise more caution in his future reporting.

Back inside the mansion, Aarav and Manvi resumed their engagement ceremony, the unpleasant interruption now behind them. A sense of calm returned to the atmosphere as they exchanged rings, surrounded by their loved ones and well-wishers, focusing once again on the joyous occasion that marked the beginning of their journey together.

Khushi approached the engaged couple, carrying the beautifully decorated plate holding the engagement rings. The room was filled with anticipation and joy as Aarav and Manvi stood together, ready to exchange their vows symbolized by these rings.

Aarav's eyes were fixed on Manvi as he picked up one of the rings from the plate. His gaze spoke volumes of his love and admiration for her, but before he could slide the ring onto her finger, Khushi playfully slapped his shoulder. "Dadda, pehnao baad mein ghurna," she teased, her voice filled with affectionate admonishment.

Aarav chuckled softly at Khushi's gentle reminder, nodding in acknowledgment. He looked at Manvi, his heart swelling with emotions that he could finally express freely. With a tender smile, he slid the ring onto her finger, a gesture that symbolized his commitment and love for her.

Manvi, feeling overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude, took the other ring from the plate. As she held Aarav's hand, she looked into his eyes, seeing the depth of his feelings reflected back at her. With a steady hand and a heart full of love, she slid the ring onto Aarav's finger, sealing their engagement with a promise of forever.

For Aarav, this moment was profound. It wasn't just an exchange of rings; it was a symbolic act of closure and new beginnings. The painful memories of his past engagement with Maya seemed to wash away, replaced by the warmth and certainty of his love for Manvi. This engagement was not forced; it was a choice made with his whole heart, with acceptance, and with the woman he truly loved.

As the rings were exchanged, a sense of peace and fulfillment settled over Aarav and Manvi. They stood together, hand in hand, amidst the cheers and blessings of their loved ones, ready to embark on their journey together, strengthened by their love and commitment to each other.

Manvi smiled gratefully at Aarav, touched by his protective instinct and his ability to handle the situation with grace. She squeezed his hand gently, silently thanking him for standing by her side.

Khushi stood amidst the celebration, her heart overflowing with tears of happiness as she witnessed the moment she had longed for. Aarav and Manvi hugged her tightly, sharing in her joy, and Khushi couldn't help but express, "I am so happy today!" Her voice trembled with emotion, knowing that her family was finally together in this beautiful moment.

Filled with excitement, Khushi rushed over to the DJ and eagerly requested him to play music, wanting to keep the festive spirit alive. The DJ complied, filling the air with lively tunes that added to the atmosphere of joy and celebration.

Meanwhile, Khushi watched her parents with a tender smile, feeling content as she stood beside Sharda and leaned her head on her grandmother's shoulder. The warmth of their embrace and the happiness in the air made her heart swell with love and gratitude.

Just then, a staff member approached Khushi, breaking her reverie. "Khushi beta, aapke liye koi bahar aaya hai," he informed her.

Khushi nodded in acknowledgment and hurried outside to see who it was. A figure stood there, wearing a mask that concealed his identity. Khushi eyed him cautiously and asked, "Aap kaun?" Her voice carried a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.

The man remained silent, his expression unreadable. Without a word, he placed a letter in Khushi's hand and swiftly turned away, disappearing into the night before she could react. Khushi was taken aback by the suddenness of it all, her heart pounding with uncertainty and fear.

She tried to chase after him, but he vanished into the darkness. Left standing alone, Khushi glanced down at the letter in her hand, her emotions in turmoil. With trembling hands, she opened it and began to read.

As she read the contents of the letter, her eyes widened in shock and disbelief. The happiness that had filled her just moments ago now turned into fear and sadness, her thoughts racing with unanswered questions and concerns.

Meanwhile, inside the mansion, Aarav and Manvi continued to dance, wrapped up in each other's presence and the joy of their engagement. Unaware of the storm that had just entered their lives, they held onto each other, cherishing the love and promise of their future together.