Target Vote - 15

The air was still buzzing with the aftermath of the unexpected announcement.

The Mehendi function had turned into an evening of surprises, but in the end, everything had fallen into place exactly as Grandma Mannat had planned.

Mannat sat comfortably on a cushioned chair in the grand hall, a satisfied smile on her face as she watched Avani and Lucas stealing glances at each other.

Their chemistry was undeniable, and despite the initial chaos, love had found its way.

Raha Jhonson, her dear friend, sat beside her, chuckling softly. "You always did have a knack for turning things around, Mannat," she said, shaking her head in admiration.

Mannat laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, my dear Raha, you and your grandson played your parts beautifully. I couldn't have done this without you."

Nickolas, standing nearby, smirked. "I must admit, I was a little skeptical when you first approached us with this plan. But seeing Avani's reaction, and Lucas stepping up so fiercely... It was worth it."

Mannat nodded knowingly. "Avani needed a little push. Sometimes, we don't realize what our heart truly wants until it's about to be taken away. And Lucas... well, I had a feeling he would fight for her."

Raha placed a gentle hand on Mannat's. "You're a wise woman, my friend. I'm glad we could do this together. Converting our friendship into family bonds, even if not through marriage, still makes me happy."

Meanwhile, across the room, Avani was still trying to process everything. She had been furious at first—shocked, overwhelmed, and unsure.

But the moment Lucas stepped forward, claiming her in front of everyone, her heart had made the decision before her mind could catch up.

Lucas leaned against the pillar, watching her with an amused smile. "Still mad at your grandmother?"

Avani crossed her arms, giving him a look. "You knew, didn't you?"

He shrugged. "Not exactly. But I knew something was up. Your grandmother is... let's just say, unpredictable."

Avani sighed, shaking her head. "I should be angry. I should be demanding answers. But instead..."

Lucas took a step closer. "Instead?"

She looked into his eyes, a small smile playing on her lips. "Instead, I feel like maybe, just maybe, she was right."

Lucas grinned. "I like the sound of that."

From across the room, Mannat and Raha watched the exchange with knowing smiles.

"See?" Mannat whispered to Raha. "Sometimes, a little twist in the story makes for the perfect ending."

And with that, she leaned back, content that her plan had worked perfectly, bringing happiness not just to Avani, but to everyone around her.

The next morning, Mannat sat in the grand sitting room, her face glowing with satisfaction. Beside her, Raha Jhonson sipped her tea, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

They were joined by another old friend—Katherine, Lucas's grandmother, who had arrived with her personal nurse. Though still recovering, she had insisted on being present for the family gathering.

Avani's mother, Naina, stood nearby, arms crossed, still trying to process everything that had unfolded the night before.

"Grand Ma Mannat, you really gave us all a shock," she said, shaking her head. "I still can't believe you planned all this without even telling Avani."

Mannat waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, nonsense! I knew exactly what I was doing. And look—things turned out just as they should. Avani followed her heart."

Katherine, watching the exchange, chuckled softly. "You always did have a flair for the dramatic, Mannat. But I must admit, your little scheme was quite effective."

Raha nodded in agreement. "It was about time Avani made a decision. And as much as I adore my grandson, I see now that Lucas is the one who truly holds her heart."

Naina sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I was furious at first. But seeing the way Avani looked at Lucas... I understand now. She's never looked at anyone that way before."

Mannat beamed, reaching for Katherine's hand. "And that is why we do what we do, my dear friends. To ensure our children—and grandchildren—find the happiness they deserve."

Katherine smiled warmly. "Then I suppose we should all celebrate. Because for once, Mannat, your meddling actually worked."

They all shared a light laugh, the tension slowly fading from the room. The wedding festivities were still in full swing, but now, there was an undeniable excitement in the air. Love had found its way through all the chaos, and in the end, that was all that truly mattered.

Author's Note – From Wini's Desk 💌

And just like that... Grandma Mannat strikes again! 😄

I had such a good time writing this chapter—it felt like all the silent threads finally came together in the most chaotic, sweet, and secretly planned way. From Mannat's mastermind meddling to Lucas's bold step forward, I couldn't stop smiling while typing that little moment by the pillar. (Tell me you felt the chemistry overload, right? 👀)

I know some of you probably gasped at the twist during the Mehendi, but deep down, haven't we all wished for a secret matchmaker who knew us better than we knew ourselves?

Now I really want to know from you:

👉 If you were in Avani's shoes, how would you have reacted? Would you be furious... or secretly relieved?

Let me know in the comments—I genuinely love reading your thoughts and theories. Your reactions make every late-night writing session worth it. 💕

Until next chapter,
Wini 🌸