Pranati's POV

As I uttered those precious words, "Rey, I love you. Will you marry me?" eight years of longing, heartache, and perseverance melted away. I felt the weight of my past lifting, like a bird finally free from its cage. The burden of secrets, the pain of Archit's cruelty, and the struggle to protect Jugnu-all seemed to fade into the background.

Rey's eyes sparkled, and his face lit up with joy. "Yes!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with emotion. His lips curved into a radiant smile, illuminating the depths of his love.

In that instant, I felt the fragmented pieces of my heart reunite. The memories of our tumultuous past—Archit's cruelty, Rey's protectiveness, and our unrelenting love—swirled together, forming a beautiful tapestry. Each thread represented a moment, a choice, and a sacrifice that led us to this moment.

As Rey took my hand, his touch ignited a sense of peace I'd never thought possible. The scars of my past no longer defined me; Rey's love had healed me. His fingers intertwined with mine, symbolizing our entwined destinies.

"Forever," Rey whispered, his breath caressing my skin.

"Forever," I promised, my voice barely above a whisper.

Our lips met in a tender kiss, sealing our vow. The world around us melted away, leaving only the gentle beat of our hearts.

Jugnu's laughter and squeals of delight filled the air, a reminder of our little family's love and resilience. She danced around us, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Maa, Papa getting married!" she sang.

Rey swept Jugnu into his arms, twirling her around.

"We're a family!" Rey exclaimed.

Tears of joy streamed down my face.

In Rey's arms, I found solace, redemption, and a love that conquered all.

"Sochlo, Mr. Khurana, once you get hitched to me, there's no going back. You'll be sealed with me for the next 7 births," I teased.

Rey's eyes sparkled with amusement, his lips curling into a captivating smile.

"Pranati, I don't believe in just 7 births. I'm in for an eternity with you," he whispered.

His words struck my heart like a gentle breeze on a summer day, soothing and calming.

"I want to wake up every morning with you by my side, to explore life's joys and challenges together, and to create a love story that transcends lifetimes," Rey continued.

My breath caught in my throat as I gazed into his sincere eyes.

"You're not just my partner, Pranati. You're my best friend, my confidante, and my soulmate. Forever and always," Rey promised.

Tears of joy welled up in my eyes.

"I love you, Rey," I whispered.

"I love you more, Pranati," Rey replied.

"I'm going to repay every day for those eight years of pain by giving you so much love, Prani," Rey whispered, his eyes burning with conviction.

Tears streamed down my face as I gazed into his loving eyes.

"Eight years of darkness, eight years of hiding, eight years of fear... all erased by your love," I replied.

Rey's fingers traced my jawline, sending shivers down my spine.

"You deserve all the love in the world, Pranati. And I'm honored to be the one to give it to you," he vowed.

His lips brushed against mine, a gentle promise of forever.

"Jugnu, Maa, Papa are happy!" our little girl exclaimed.

We smiled.

"Forever and always, my love," Rey whispered.

"Forever and always," I echoed.

•••••••

"Maa, Papa's wedding will be the best!" Jugnu exclaimed.

Rey chuckled. "We'll make it unforgettable, baby."

I smiled. "Let's start planning."

Rey's eyes sparkled. "I've already booked the venue. A beautiful garden overlooking the lake."

"Perfect!" I said.

"Maa, what about your dress?" Jugnu asked.

"I'll design something stunning," my best friend, Rhea, offered.

Rey's sister, Nalini, jumped in. "I'll handle the decorations. Pastel colors and flowers everywhere!"

Rey's brother, Armaan, grinned. "Music and food are on me."

As our loved ones rallied around us, the excitement grew.

"Two weeks and counting," Rey whispered.

I nodded. "Our forever begins soon."

••••••

After Two weeks

"Welcome to the family, Prabhi," Rey's sister, Nalini, said warmly, embracing me tightly. Her eyes sparkled with joy, and I felt an instant connection.

"Prabhi?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.

Nalini smiled mischievously. "Pranati + Bhabhi = Prabhi," she replied, her voice filled with affection. "You're not just my brother's wife; you're my sister, my friend, my everything."

I laughed, feeling loved and accepted. Rey's family had always been warm, but this moment sealed our bond.

As we prepared for the Anand Karaj ceremony, Jugnu danced around us, her tiny lehenga shimmering. Armaan, Rey's brother, adjusted his turban, beaming with pride.

The Ragis' soulful voices filled the Gurudwara, transporting us to a spiritual realm. Rey and I sat before the Guru Granth Sahib, hands clasped together.

The first Lavan began, and we rose as one. The Ragi sang: "Jin kau kul nu kuul hai, tin kau ratey nahin." ("Those who have the same lineage, their union is not broken.") We circled the Guru Granth Sahib, our love growing with each step.

In the second Lavan, Rey's eyes locked onto mine, filled with promise. The shabad continued: "Jin kau chit nu chit hai, tin kau fatey nahin." ("Those who have the same consciousness, their union is not broken.") Our hearts beat as one.

Jugnu giggled, playing hide-and-seek behind Nalini's dupatta. Armaan smiled, his eyes shining with happiness.

The third Lavan brought the shabad: "Jin kau dharam nu dharam hai, tin kau batey nahin." ("Those who have the same righteous path, their union is not broken.") Our families' blessings surrounded us.

The final Lavan sealed our union. The Ragi sang: "Jin kau man nu man hai, tin kau latey nahin." ("Those who have the same mind, their union is not broken.") Rey and I exchanged vows.

As we concluded the ceremony, Nalini hugged me again. "Forever, Prabhi."

"Forever," I replied, smiling.

Rey's arms wrapped around me, holding me close. "My wife, my everything."

"Welcome to the family Mrs. Reyansh Khurana!"