"What on earth are you talking about Neil?" screamed Chitra.

"We don't really have time, do we? So stop nagging and come with us," demanded Neil.

Chitra's babbling was ignored and she was pulled into the car by Dhara.She was sandwiched between them.

"Dhara, I never thought you were this cruel! I always thought you'd stop this idiot," said Chitra

"I'm really sorry Chitra, but I got my reasons and we both are disappointed with you," replied Dhara.

"Why?"

"Cause you thought of running away at four in the morning somewhere without telling anybody when it's our engagement in a few hours," yelled Neil, his expressions changing from disappointment, anger to concern.

"I...I was coming there..."

"You no need to lie to us Chitra...If you're not comfortable with telling us about it, it's okay but running away and ignoring our friendship of two decades just like that..."

"Neil, I know. I shouldn't have done that, but something else made me forget about you...I'm really sorry...I"

"I don't need your apology Chitra. All I'm asking is we respect your space but don't shut us out," replied Neil.

Dhara removed her blind fold and hugged her while Neil avoided looking at her by staring at the window.

"Neil, you know that I can't even slap you now because my hands are tied so you better face me," spoke Chitra with fake anger.

Neil paid no attention to her words.

"Fine, then I'll tell your secrets to Dhara" threatened Chitra.

Getting no response from Neil, she continued, "Dhara, Neil once made pea-" her words were muffled as Neil stopped her from continuing.

"Tell me, I'm facing you. Happy?"asked Neil.

"Well then free my hands" commanded Chitra.

"No," said Neil curtly.

"Neil!"

"Not until we arrive at the venue," he replied.

The car journey continued for half-an-hour and they reached Neil's house. The gates were adorned with garlands and thoranam of mango leaves. Sparkling colourful lights hung from the balcony. Soon the sun rose, filling the sky with his warmth. The trio got down from the car.

"Promise me that you'll not run away without telling us," asked Neil, removing the scarf that was tied around Chitra's hands.

"Fine, now don't nag me. Let me enjoy your engagement!" Replied Chitra as she pulled Neil's cheeks. She hugged Dhara and they  went inside while Neil took out the luggage from the car and carried them inside.

Chitra hid behind the couple when the door was opened by Neil's mom who was fuming with anger.

"Where have you been Neil? How many times have I told you to inform me before stepping out?! And on top of that you took Dhara with you and left your phones at home! Why do you even have a phone if you're gonna be an irresponsible brat and leave at home?" Yelled Neil's mom Ishvari glaring at them.

Chitra muffled her laughter and eyed Neil," Guess I'm not the only one who loves running," she stated and slowly came out.

"Ishu aunty!!!! How are you?" Sang Chitra as she hugged her.

Ishvari's anger melted away as she saw Chitra. Her face beamed as she hugged her back. Neil took his chance and escaped inside while Dhara smiled at them.

"You should've told me that you went to pick up Chitra," said Ishvari as she moved to the kitchen to prepare coffee for everyone.

"What can I say Attayya, your son is spontaneous," stated Dhara as she settled on the counter top taking her glass. Chitra sat beside her sipping coffee.

"Where did that idiot go? He better be getting ready. He takes more time to get ready than you girls, what should I do with him," sighed Ishvari.

The girls laughed at her remark.

"We'll go and get ready Attayya, you should also go," stated Dhara as she washed her glass.

"Yes, I've kept your outfit ready. Also yell at Neil to get ready quickly after you're done. Vindhya said they'll arrive in an hour. The decorators finished decorating the backyard half-an-hour ago. It's beautiful! You should go and check it," said Ishvari and went upstairs.

"Dhara, I-"

"Your outfit will arrive in a few minutes, don't worry! Come with me, let's go and see the beauty Attayya told us about," said Dhara dragging Chitra with her to the backyard.

The lawn that was covered with luscious patches of grass had pandiri that was weaved with coconut leaves. Parrots made out of coconut coir and leaves hung at sides and center with palm leaf decorations along rose and marigold hangings.

(Pandiri - a structure that provides shelter from sun and rain usually made of coconut straws, banana leaves etc.)

They were mesmerized as the scene in front of them ravished in the early rays emanating delight to the soul.

"I really hope that it should not rain today," said Dhara,  enjoying the warmth of the sunlight.

"But I think it will," stated Chitra

"Why?"

"How can nature not bless the union of this lovely couple," replied Chitra glowing with happiness.

Their short conversation was disturbed by the sound of the door bell.

"I guess your outfit is here Chitra," said Dhara as she walked towards the entrance with Chitra trailing her.

Dhara opened the door and welcomed Chaitra in.

"Chaitra!" Called Chitra surprised

"Yes, so I guess you had to postpone your adventure," said Chaitra, handing Chitra a paper bag.

"You knew it all the time?" Questioned Chitra.

"How can I not? How can you think that I'll let you miss your best friend's engagement?" Replied Chaitra.

Chitra silently took the bag and went to get dressed.

"Why are you still not dressed?" Chaitra asked Dhara watching her sister climbing the stairs.

"Well we were busy admiring the decorations akka," replied Dhara.

"Come on! Let's get you ready. Can't wait to see Neil swoon and gush about you," said Chaitra excitedly.

"That he already does. Where's Mridur bava?" Asked Dhara chuckling.

"Ishvari Attayya sent him to check with the catering services. He will be back soon" replied Chaitra as they went upstairs to get ready.

Glossary

Attayya - mother-in-law

Akka - Elder sister

Bava - brother-in-law