*Chapter 1: Exam Season Blues*

Niyati "Nia" Malhotra was a vision of elegance, her beauty shining like a beacon amidst the chaos of Mumbai. Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, framing her heart-shaped face and bright, expressive brown eyes. Her porcelain skin glowed with a soft radiance, a testament to her meticulous skincare routine.

At 24, Niyati had blossomed into a stunning young woman, her curves accentuated by her tailored outfits. Her style was effortless, blending traditional Indian elegance with modern chic. When dressed up, she turned heads, her confidence and poise commanding attention.

But beneath her polished exterior, Niyati was a whirlwind of determination and focus. A chartered accountant by profession, she was driven to succeed, her mind razor-sharp and analytical. Her passion for numbers and problem-solving fueled her ambition, propelling her up the corporate ladder.

As a busy bee, Niyati's life was a delicate balancing act – juggling work, studies, and family expectations. Her mom's constant reminders about marriage and settling down only added to the pressure. Yet, Niyati remained resolute, her priorities crystal clear: career first, personal life later.

Niyati "Nia" Malhotra sat amidst piles of books and notes, her messy hair tied up in a ponytail. Exam season was her worst nightmare, but she was determined to ace it.

"I live in two worlds, one where I'm a studious CA aspirant, and the other where I'm a fashionista. But during exams, the fashionista takes a backseat." Niyati chuckled to herself.

Her friend Sara walked in, admiring Niyati's study setup.

Sara leaned over the table, her eyes wide with playful exasperation.

"Niyu, you're seriously a study machine! But come on, you look stunning today, don't waste it on books!" she exclaimed, twirling a lock of her curly brown hair.

Niyati chuckled, brushing a stray strand from her face. "Thanks, Sara, but I really need to focus. Exams are around the corner. Just hang in there for a month, okay? We’ll have a blast once I'm free."

Sara groaned dramatically, her pout exaggerated. "But whyyy? You're always with your nose in a book!"

Niyati gave a small, knowing smile. "Look, what's the use of looking gorgeous if I end up flunking? 'I'd rather be hitting the books than crying over a failed career.'"

Sara rolled her eyes with a grin. "Yaaaar, Niyu! You seriously need a break. How about a quick shopping spree or just some coffee therapy? We’ll make it short and sweet!"

Niyati sighed, tempted by the idea. "You know what, maybe a little break won't hurt. But just a quick one, okay? I really can't afford to slack off right now."

Sara clapped her hands excitedly, "Yay! Shopping it is! We'll just grab our favorite iced lattes and window shop if nothing else."

Niyati laughed, feeling her resolve soften. "Alright, alright. Let's make it a date. But you're dragging me back to my books afterward!"

They stood up, giggling like schoolgirls as they made their way out of the coffee shop, ready to steal a moment of joy amidst the chaos of adulting.

Just then, Niyati's mom, Sujata, walked in with a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

"Aaj kal Arundhati ki shaadi ki taiyaariyan chal rahi hain. Sara, tumhare liye ek special invitation hai."

Sara's eyes lit up, "Aunty, Arundhati didi ki shaadi? Main toh zaroor aaungi! Vivek bhaiya ko congratulations!"

Arundhati, Niyati's cousin sister, was Sara's closest friend from school days. They had shared secrets, laughter, and tears together. Sara had met Niyati through Arundhati in college, and the three had become inseparable.

Sujata continued, "Arundhati tumhari behen jaisi hai, Sara. Aur Vivek ko toh tum janti hi ho unki shaadi main tumhe toh aana hi tha 😄".

Sara : Yes Aunty I am soo excited shaadi ke liye.

Sujata: "Ab tumhi isse samjhao, Sara. Marriage kitni important hai. Abhi se ladke dekhne shuru karenge, toh kahi jaakar accha rishta milega."

Niyati: "Mom, please. Let it be."

Sujata: "Ya fir agar tumhara koi boyfriend hai, toh bata do."

Sara: "Aunty, Niyu ko thoda time do. She'll figure it out."

Niyati: " Thanks, Sara. Mom, maine toh keh diya hai na, mujhe shaadi nahi karni."

Sara's face flushed, "Aunty, main samajhti hoon, lekin Niyati ko thoda time do."

Niyati: "Sara, let's go for a coffee. Starbucks chale?"

( Chalo, Sara. Coffee pe chalte hai. )"

Sara: "Yes, Niyu! Your favorite, Caramel Macchiato and Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake, right?"

They head out to Starbucks.

Favorite Order:

- Niyati: Caramel Macchiato and Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
- Sara: Mocha Cookie Crumble Fappuccino and Chocolate Croissant.

Niyati and Sara stepped into the bustling Starbucks outlet, surrounded by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soft hum of conversations. The warm glow of the coffee shop enveloped them, providing a cozy escape from the chaos outside.

As they joined the queue, Sara's eyes scanned the menu, "Niyu, what's your order?"

"Caramel Macchiato and Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake, usual!" Niyati replied.

Sara chuckled, "You're so predictable!"

Once Niyati placed their order, they found a cozy corner table, nestled between comfortable armchairs and large windows overlooking the city.

As they settled in,

Sara exclaimed, "Oh my god, Arundhati didi's wedding invitation card is so beautiful! I'm so excited to attend!"

Niyati smiled, "I know, right? Mom went all out with the designs."

Sara's eyes sparkled, "Arundhati didi is going to make a stunning bride! And Vivek bhaiya is perfect for her."

Niyati nodded, "They're meant to be. Arundhati didi has always been the romantic type."

Sara leaned in, "Speaking of romance, when are you going to start thinking about marriage?

Niyati rolled her eyes, "Sara, don't start!"

Sara persisted, "Come on, Niyu! You're 24, and your mom is already stressing about it. What's holding you back?"

Niyati sighed, "I don't want to compromise, Sara. I want someone who understands me, supports my career, and loves me for who I am."

Sara nodded thoughtfully, "That's fair. But don't you think you're being too picky?"

Niyati shrugged, "Maybe. But I'd rather wait for the right person than settle for someone who doesn't make me happy."

As they collected their order, Sara asked, "So, what's the plan? Are you going to keep avoiding marriage talks with your mom?"

Niyati grinned mischievously, "For now, yes! But who knows? Maybe Aru's  wedding will inspire me."

Sara chuckled, "I'll make sure to bring my matchmaking skills to the wedding!"

Their laughter filled the coffee shop, drawing smiles from nearby patrons.

_Arundhati's Wedding Invitation_

- Date: Next month
- Venue: Malhotra Family Mansion
- Time: 11 am
- Guest List: Close family and friends, including Sara