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After Ruhaan left my room through the window, I made my way downstairs, a smile naturally forming on my face as I watched all the women dancing and laughing, fully immersed in the celebration. The garden was alive with color, music, and joy. It was beautiful-breathtaking, really.

I stood there for a moment, soaking it all in. I couldn't believe that in just two days, I would be getting married to the love of my life. It still felt unreal, like a dream I was afraid to wake up from. Three years of love, laughter, and even tears had brought us here, to this moment, where I was surrounded by family, friends, and so much happiness.

With a soft smile, I walked toward the group of women who were dancing. They saw me and immediately pulled me into the circle, laughing and cheering as they made me dance along with them. I giggled, feeling light and free, and let myself get lost in the rhythm of the music.

I twirled my hand above my head and brought it down to rest on my waist. My feet moved naturally to the beat as I lip-synced to the song, feeling the energy of the celebration coursing through me. The music was infectious, and for a moment, I forgot everything else and just danced, spinning and swaying along with the others.

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of Ruhaan. He was standing at a distance, his eyes fixed on me with that small, mischievous smile that I knew so well. My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze, and when he winked at me, I felt the heat rise to my cheeks. Even though his face was partially obscured by a veil of shadows, I could see his expression clearly-playful, loving, and full of admiration.

He waved at me, signaling that he was about to leave. I returned his smile, nodding slightly to let him know that I understood. Watching him walk away, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness for the days to come, but mostly, I felt love-a deep, overwhelming love for the man who had stolen my heart all those years ago.

We all had our hands decorated with intricate designs, each pattern more beautiful than the last. The dark stain of the mehendi against my skin was a promise-a symbol of the love and happiness that awaited me.

After everyone had left and the house had quieted down, I made my way back to my room. It was late, and exhaustion was starting to catch up with me, but I couldn't stop thinking about the beautiful mehendi on my hands.

I gently washed it off, revealing the deep, rich color beneath. The henna had darkened beautifully, and the fragrance lingered in the air, soothing and sweet. I admired the design, smiling to myself. Ruhaan had done this. He had made sure it was perfect.

A soft laugh escaped my lips. My Ruhaan, always full of surprises.

Feeling a sudden urge to hear his voice, I picked up my phone and dialed his number. He answered after just a few rings, his familiar voice filling the silence of my room.

"Hello," he said, a hint of teasing in his tone. "Missing me already?"

"A lot," I admitted, my voice soft.

"Oh? Then why don't you come over? We can continue where we left off," he replied, his voice dropping into that low, husky tone that always sent shivers down my spine.

I instantly understood the meaning behind his words, and my cheeks flushed red.

"Shut up," I said, trying to sound stern but failing miserably as a smile tugged at my lips.

"I called to talk, not for you to start flirting and talking dirty."

I could almost picture him frowning on the other end of the line.

"Dr. Sohana," he said, dragging out my name in that playful way of his, "I am your soon-to-be husband. I have every right to flirt with you, talk dirty with you, and do so much more." His voice was filled with that familiar mix of playfulness and seduction, and I found myself rolling my eyes even though he couldn't see me.

"Anyway," I said, changing the subject, "I wanted to ask you something." I shifted on the bed, lying flat on my back as I stared up at the ceiling.

"Anything," he replied, his voice softening.

"The mehendi designs you drew-they're beautiful. How did you learn to apply henna so well?" I asked, genuinely curious.

His laughter echoed through the phone, and I couldn't help but smile at the sound.

"My mom," he said, and his voice took on a more serious, tender tone.

"Ever since I was a child, I noticed that during every festival, her hands were always empty-no henna, no designs. I asked her about it once, and she told me that she didn't know how to apply mehendi, and that no one had ever done it for her. So, I decided to learn. I practiced until I could do it perfectly, just so I could decorate her hands for every festival. It made her so happy, and that's all I ever wanted."

His words touched me deeply, and I found myself imagining a younger version of Ruhaan, carefully applying henna to his mother's hands, his heart full of love for her.

"That's so sweet," I whispered, feeling a lump form in my throat. "You must love her a lot."

"I do," he replied simply.

"And not just her. I do Ridhima's mehendi too. She's my little princess, my baby sister. Mom treats her like her own daughter. She always wanted a daughter, but... well, there were complications, and she couldn't have more children. So, Ridhima is like the daughter she never had, and I love her just as much."

I could hear the affection in his voice as he spoke about his mother and sister, and it only made me love him more. He was always so thoughtful, so caring.

"Ruhaan," I whispered, my voice barely audible, "I'm so lucky to have you."

"And I'm lucky to have you," he replied, his voice filled with warmth.

We talked for a while longer, about the upcoming Sangeet function and our plans for the future. It was one of those conversations that felt easy and comforting, like we had all the time in the world. After a while, though, I started to feel tired.

I drifted off to sleep, the last thing I thought about was how, in just a couple of days, I would be walking down the aisle toward Ruhaan, my love, my future, and the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Everything felt perfect, and I couldn't wait for our forever to begin.

"Di, Di, wake up! You have to get ready. The guests must be arriving!" Sanaya's voice broke through the remnants of my sleep as I slowly blinked my eyes open.

"Get up!" she insisted, and I shot up in bed, groggy but alert.

I glanced at the clock.

6:15 PM.

Oh no! The function starts at 7 PM.

Move quickly, Sohana!

With a surge of urgency, I leaped out of bed, snatching my lehenga from the hanger. I splashed cold water on my face to shake off the last bits of sleep, feeling the cool droplets jolt me awake.

The purple lehenga I had chosen for the Sangeet was more beautiful than I remembered, the intricate embroidery catching the light as I quickly slipped it on.

I hurriedly applied light makeup, dabbing on some foundation, a touch of blush, and a hint of kohl around my eyes. I then fastened the delicate jewelry I had picked out-a set of silver earrings, a matching necklace, and a few bangles that jingled softly as I moved.

As I was finishing up, Sanaya walked into my room, dressed in a breathtaking purple saree that contrasted beautifully against her skin. She looked ethereal, like a goddess descending to earth.

"You look divine, Sanu!" I exclaimed, unable to hold back my admiration.

"Thank you, Di! But we need to go; it's almost 7 PM," she reminded me, her tone a mix of excitement and urgency.

I glanced at the clock again.

6:50 PM.

Time was slipping away fast. I quickly swiped on some lipstick, its rich color completing my look. With one last glance in the mirror, I slipped into my sandals, the delicate straps adding the final touch to my ensemble.

Together, we hurried downstairs. As we reached the bottom, I spotted our dad waiting for us in the living room. He looked up and smiled, a mix of pride and sadness in his eyes. I walked over to him, my heart swelling with emotion, and bent down to touch his feet, seeking his blessings for the evening.

He gently caressed my cheek, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"May God bless you, my dear," he murmured, pulling me and Sanaya into a warm embrace.

My family.

I'm going to miss them. Miss them so much.

With a final deep breath, we headed out, making our way to Ruhaan's house for the Sangeet. As we approached, the sight before me left me awestruck.

The entire place was transformed into a pink-themed wonderland. Soft drapes, delicate fairy lights, and fresh flowers adorned every corner, creating an atmosphere that was both magical and intimate.

Ruhaan's father greeted us at the entrance, his face lit up with a welcoming smile. We followed him inside, where the guests were already mingling, the room buzzing with excitement and the faint sound of music playing in the background. I could feel the anticipation in the air, a sense of joy and celebration that was contagious.

As we made our way through the crowd, Ruhaan appeared by my side, as if drawn to me by some invisible force. He smiled at me, his eyes soft and full of affection.

Without a word, he took my hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring. Then, he brought my palm to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss against it.

"Welcome home," he whispered, his voice low and tender.

A giggle escaped my lips, and I felt my heart flutter at his words. This place, this moment, was beginning to feel like home, especially with him by my side.

The function began, and soon the room was filled with laughter, music, and the rhythmic beats of dancing feet. The first performance was by the children, their energy and enthusiasm bringing smiles to everyone's faces. Next, our parents took the stage, their dance filled with the joy and nostalgia of reliving their younger days.

And then, it was Ridhima and Kabir's turn. They danced to 'Sweety Tera Drama,' their playful chemistry drawing cheers and applause from the audience.

I couldn't help but notice Ruhaan's eyes narrowing every time Kabir got a little too close to his sister. He wasn't alone-behind me, I heard Rivan muttering under his breath, clearly displeased.

Protective brothers.

Their overprotectiveness was both endearing and amusing. The way Ruhaan's brows furrowed, and Rivan's quiet grumbling was a reminder of how much they cared for Ridhima. It made me smile, thinking about how fortunate she was to have such caring brothers.

Next up were my two best friends. They tried their best, though it was obvious Rishi was struggling—dancing was never his strong suit. He moved awkwardly, his steps a bit out of sync with the music, but his effort was endearing, and the crowd appreciated it.

The fact that he was on stage, doing something he wasn't comfortable with, just for the sake of celebration, made me appreciate his friendship even more.

Finally, only two people were left to perform.

Rivan and Sanaya.

Everyone in the room started urging them onto the stage, their voices merging into a collective encouragement that they couldn't resist.

Hesitantly, they stepped up, the spotlight now on them. They began to dance to 'Sun Mere Humsafar,' but something was off. There was a stiffness in their movements, an awkwardness that hinted at an underlying tension. They seemed almost too aware of each other, like they were dancing with invisible walls between them.

I watched them closely, feeling a strange tug in my heart as I noticed their discomfort. There was something between them, something unspoken, that made me wonder if there was more to their story than I knew.

As their performance ended, it was supposed to be my turn to take the stage. But when I looked beside me, I realized Ruhaan was no longer there. My heart skipped a beat as I scanned the room, trying to find him. Where could he have gone?

Suddenly, the stage lights dimmed, casting long shadows across the floor. The crowd hushed, curious about what was happening. And then, the lights focused on a single figure sitting in the center of the stage.

It was Ruhaan.

He sat there, holding a guitar, the instrument resting gently on his lap. His eyes met mine, and a slow, tender smile spread across his face. Without breaking our gaze, he began to strum the strings, the soft melody filling the room and echoing in my heart.

Mujhko Itna Bataye Koyi
Kaise Tujhse Dil Na Lagaye Koyi

Rabba Ne Tujhko Banane Mein
Kardi Hai Husn Ki Khaali Tijoriyan

Kajal Ki Siyahi Se Likhi
Hai Tune Jaane
Kitno Ki Love Story’an

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Rang Jaaun Jo Main Hath Lagaun
Din Beete Saara Teri Fikr Mein
Rain Saari Teri Khair Manaun

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Rang Jaaun Jo Main Hath Lagaun
Din Beete Saara Teri Fikr Mein
Rain Saari Teri Khair Manaun

He moved towards me holding his guitar and held my hand. I twirled around him, giggling and adoring his action.

Patjhad Ke Mausam Mein Bhi
Rangi Chanaron Jaisi

Jhanke Sannnaton Mein Tu
Veena Ke Taaron Jaisi

Hmm...

Sadiyon Se Bhi Lambi Yeh
Mann Ki Amavasein Hain

Aur Tu Phuljhadiyon Wale
Tyoharon Jaisi

Chanda Bhi Deewana Hai Tera
Jalti Hai Tujhse
Saari Chhakoriyan

He circled his hand around my head and applied my kajal behind my ear. He then pulled me closer towards him by my waist and kissed my forehead.

Kajal Ki Siyahi Se Likhi
Hai Tune Jaane
Kitno Ki Love Story’an

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Rang Jaaun Jo Main Hath Lagaun
Din Beete Saara Teri Fikr Mein
Rain Saari Teri Khair Manaun

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Rang Jaaun Jo Main Hath Lagaun
Din Beete Saara Teri Fikr Mein
Rain Saari Teri Khair Manaun

He picked me up in bridal style and circled around. Flowers fell on us as I giggled at the sight.

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Ishq Hai Piya

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Ishq Hai Piya

Piya Ishq Hai Piya
Ishq Hai Piya

Kesariya Tera Ishq Hai Piya
Rang Jaaun Jo Main Hath Lagaun

The song ended, and he placed me on the ground. The room echoed with the claps but all I could see was him, standing infront of me with that same tender smile, his eyes locked on mine.

"I love you, Sohana," he whispered into my ear, his voice trembling with emotion.

"I love you too, Ruhaan," I replied, my voice equally soft, as tears of joy spilled down my cheeks.

In that embrace, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would face them together.

After all the performances we went to eat something but I noticed Ruhaan not eating anything. He wasn't even touching his plate. I walked towards him and stood infront of him with arms crossed against my chest.

"Why are you not eating anything?" I asked him.

"Upwas kara hai maine aapke liye." He said and my eyes widened in shock.

"Wh...what? But why?" I stammered.

"Aapke liye, aur aapki bhalai ke liye. Zarurat padi toh har somvar vrat rakhne ko bhi tayar hun main aapke liye."

🧿

Hey pretties! How are you all? I hope you all are doing good.
3 chapters are left for the book to end.

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