UDAIPUR - TAJ LAKE PALACE

The wedding hall buzzed with excitement as Sahil sat on the king-sized sofa, dressed in a regal maroon Punjabi wedding attire with an off-white pagdi adorning his head. He exuded charm, but beneath the royal elegance, his heart thumped in anticipation. Standing beside him were Ansh and Kartik, dressed in pink kurtas, looking equally dashing. On Sahil’s lap sat little Kaira, her baby pink frock, white sneakers, and a pink hairband making her look like a doll. She giggled, swinging her tiny legs, completely unaware of the significance of the day. The room fell into a hushed admiration as Yashika entered, dressed in her maroon Punjabi bridal attire, glowing with grace. The intricate embroidery of her lehenga shimmered under the golden lights, her jewelry adding to her regal beauty. Sahil, upon seeing her, forgot to breathe for a second.

He gently lifted Kaira off his lap and placed her on the floor before walking toward his bride, mesmerized. Extending his hand toward her, he whispered, “You look… breathtaking.”

Yashika, blushing, shyly placed her hand in his, and in front of everyone, Sahil leaned in and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead.

The hall erupted in cheers and whistles, the lively Punjabi spirit filling the air. Sahil’s mother, brimming with love, immediately waved off the evil eye, ensuring her son and daughter-in-law were protected from negativity.

Just behind her entered Prerna and Aarya, equally stunning in their elegant sarees.

Prerna’s pink plain saree draped gracefully around her, complementing her white off-shoulder blouse, diamond earrings, and a diamond choker that sparkled under the lights.

Aarya’s light pink saree with its golden border and pink blouse made her look ethereal, her diamond earrings adding a delicate charm.

Aarya made her way toward Kartik, who immediately reached for her waist, pulling her closer with ease.

Leaning in, he softly kissed her temple and murmured, “You look beautiful.”

Aarya smiled, leaning into his warmth, “And you look like a prince.”

Beside them, Prerna stood, adjusting her saree, feeling someone’s gaze on her. She turned slightly to find Ansh staring at her, his eyes filled with admiration but she ignored.

.

As everyone made their way toward the Gurudwara, the air was filled with excitement, laughter, and the soft jingling of Yashika’s bridal bangles. Sahil and Yashika sat inside his BMW, beautifully decorated with lilies and roses. The delicate fragrance of the flowers mixed with the cool air from the AC, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the wedding rush. Sahil gently took Yashika’s hand in his, rubbing his thumb over her soft skin.

“Nervous?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Yashika glanced at him, her cheeks tinted pink. “A little… but mostly happy.”

Sahil smiled, lifting her hand to his lips and placing a soft kiss. “Me too. Mostly happy… but completely in love.”

Yashika lowered her gaze, smiling shyly. She leaned her head on his shoulder.

.

Kartik carefully helped Aarya settle into the back seat of his sleek Range Rover, making sure she was comfortable before stepping in himself. Taking Kaira from Prerna, he placed their little girl gently on Aarya’s lap before sitting beside her.

Prerna slipped into the front seat, expecting the driver to start the car, but before she could ask, Ansh slid into the driver’s seat, gripping the steering wheel confidently. Prerna stiffened, her gaze instantly turning toward the window, pretending to be lost in the passing scenery. She refused to acknowledge him, her mind half-remembering the events of last night. Ansh glanced at her from the corner of his eye but said nothing, letting the silence speak between them.

In the back seat, Aarya rested her head on Kartik’s shoulder, her eyes fluttering shut in comfort. Kaira, dressed in her cute pink frock, giggled as she played with Aarya’s fingers.

Kartik leaned down and pressed a soft kiss on Aarya’s head.

“Tired already?” he murmured, his voice laced with warmth.

Aarya hummed, tilting her face up slightly. “Not really… Just happy.”

Kartik smiled, his fingers grazing her cheek. “Me too. More than ever.”

Aarya intertwined her fingers with his, squeezing gently. Kartik kissed her forehead once more, holding her close as the car smoothly moved forward.

.

The car stopped in front of the Gurudwara, its pristine white walls glowing under the soft daylight. The air was filled with the soothing chants of Gurbani, the fragrance of fresh flowers, and the warmth of loved ones gathered to witness Sahil and Yashika’s union.

Sahil, dressed in his maroon sherwani and off-white turban, stepped out first, adjusting his pagdi. His eyes immediately landed on Yashika, who was being helped out of the car by Aarya and Prerna. Unable to resist, Sahil extended his hand towards her.

Yashika hesitated for a second, glancing at the crowd, but then slipped her hand into his. A soft cheer rose from their friends, making her blush deeper. Sahil leaned in slightly and murmured, “I swear, I’ve never seen anyone look more beautiful.”

Yashika lowered her gaze, her lips twitching. “Save the flirting for later, Mr. Groom. We have a wedding to finish.”

He chuckled but didn’t let go of her hand as they walked inside together.

Inside the Gurudwara, the couple sat before the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book, while the priest began reciting the Lavan (the four wedding vows). With each round around the Guru Granth Sahib, Sahil’s grip on Yashika’s hand tightened, as if silently promising her a lifetime of love and protection. During the final phera, when the priest announced them officially husband and wife, Sahil turned to Yashika and whispered, “Finally, you’re mine.”

Yashika giggled softly, squeezing his hand. “I always was.”

As they bowed their heads in prayer, their fingers remained interlocked—two souls, now forever bound together.

.

The wedding venue was bathed in the soft glow of fairy lights, casting a dreamy aura over the grand mandap. The air carried the sweet scent of roses and marigolds as everyone eagerly waited for the bride.

Sahil, dressed in a pristine white sherwani with a regal red shawl, stood under the mandap, his fingers tapping against his side. Ansh, holding Kaira in his arms, leaned in and teased, "Last chance, bro. Run while you can."

Sahil shot him a glare, but before he could retort, a collective gasp from the guests made him turn toward the entrance.

Yashika had arrived.

Dressed in a stunning red bridal lehenga, she looked ethereal, the heavy embroidery catching the light as she walked towards him. Sahil felt his breath hitch—his world narrowed to the woman coming toward him, the woman who would soon be his wife. As she reached him, he didn’t hesitate. His hand slid around her waist, pulling her closer as he leaned down and kissed her nose.

"I love you," he murmured softly.

Yashika giggled, her cheeks blooming with color. "You’re impossible."

"And you’re beautiful," he whispered, his eyes drinking her in.

Holding her hand firmly, Sahil led her toward the mandap.

While Aarya and Prerna were already seated beside Kartik.

Aarya, looking breathtaking in an ivory lehenga with pearl earrings, tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, only for Kartik to reach over and do it for her.

"You look beautiful," Kartik murmured, his fingers grazing her cheek. Aarya smiled, leaning slightly into his touch.

Nearby, Ansh handed Kaira to Prerna, settling beside Kartik, enjoying the wedding with a smile.

While Prerna, dressed elegantly in an ivory lehenga with diamond earrings, cradled Kaira, who was now peacefully dozing off.

.

The wedding rituals began, the soft hum of mantras filling the air as Sahil and Yashika performed the saat pheras, their hands intertwined, their hearts promising eternity.

Then came the final moment.

Sahil took the sindoor, his hand steady as he filled Yashika’s hairline with the deep red powder. The red powder dusted onto her nose accidentally, making her smile with tears in her eyes.

Sahil noticed it, his heart swelling with love. He cupped her face gently, wiping away the stray tear that escaped. Leaning in, he pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead.

"Welcome to the family, Mrs. Yashika Sahil Malhotra," he whispered.

Yashika blushed, looking up at him with pure love in her eyes.

A loud cheer and claps erupted from their friends and family, sealing the moment with love, laughter, and a lifetime of togetherness.

.

As the wedding rituals and reception ended, Sahil dressed in black tuxedo let out a long sigh as he dragged his exhausted self toward his room, where his newlywed wife, Yashika, was waiting for him. He was dreaming about finally getting some alone time with her when—

BAM!

The door slammed shut right in front of him.

Sahil blinked in surprise as Aarya and Prerna stood there with crossed arms, blocking his way. Their expressions screamed "you know the drill."

"Ladies, move aside, my wife is waiting." Sahil tried to negotiate.

Aarya smirked. "First, our nek, dear jiju."

Sahil groaned dramatically but took out his wallet, handing each of them ₹5000.

Prerna looked at the notes and pouted. "Only this much? Sahil, you’re the great Malhotra prince, not some middle-class dulha."

"Yeah," Aarya added. "Did you forget? We are the same people who helped you escape your bachelor life."

Sahil laughed sleepily. "Oh, come on! Take it or leave it."

The girls made a show of rolling their eyes but pocketed the money very quickly. Just then, Kartik and Ansh arrived, looking too smug for Sahil’s comfort. Kartik pulled out a small packet from his pocket and held it up. A shiny red packet of condoms.

"Return gift," Kartik smirked. "Since you gifted me the same at my wedding."

Sahil turned a bright shade of red.

Before he could protest, Ansh pulled out another packet and placed it in Sahil’s palm.

"In case you last long," Ansh added with a deadpan face.

Sahil immediately choked on air while everyone burst out laughing.

"You guys are the worst," Sahil muttered, rubbing his face.

Aarya wasn’t done. She leaned in with a teasing grin.

"Use them wisely. But if you don’t want to, that’s fine too. Kaira doesn’t have anyone to play with, so you can help."

Sahil almost dropped the packets. "AARYA!"

Prerna smirked, joining in. "And don’t disappoint Yashika, okay? Perform well."

Sahil covered his burning face with both hands. "You guys are impossible."

Kartik patted his back. "Go now, champ. Your battle awaits."

Sahil groaned but didn’t waste another second. Snatching the door handle, he rushed inside, slamming the door behind him.

The group burst into laughter outside.

"Poor guy," Ansh said, wiping a tear.

"Yeah," Aarya smirked. "But we’re definitely not sorry."

.

As soon as Sahil shut the door behind him, he let out a long sigh of relief. Finally, some peace.

His gaze fell on Yashika, sitting gracefully on the bed, still in her wine-colored lehenga, looking at him with a soft smile. The glow of the bedside lamp made her look even more beautiful, and for a moment, he just stood there, admiring her.

Then, with a dramatic sigh, he walked over and plopped down on the bed, resting his head in her lap.

He took her hand, kissed her palm, and murmured, "Finally, we are married."

Yashika chuckled, running her fingers through his hair, "Hmm, and it only took you forever to convince me."

Sahil smirked, looking up at her. "And I’d do it all over again if it meant I’d get to be here like this, with you."

She blushed but quickly hid it by nudging his shoulder. "Okay, enough romance, mister. Help me get rid of all this jewellery. My head feels like it’s carrying a whole jewellery store."

Sahil laughed and sat up, ready to help, but just as he moved—

A small packet slipped from his pocket and landed right between them.

A bright red condom packet.

There was a moment of pure silence.

Both of them stared at it.

Then at each other.

AND-

BOTH BURST INTO LAUGHTER.

Sahil rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "It’s Ansh and Kartik’s deed," he muttered, shaking his head.

Yashika, still giggling, cleared her throat and leaned forward to open the bedside drawer.

Inside—

It was full of condom packets.

Sahil’s eyes widened.

Yashika grinned mischievously, "Aarya and Prerna’s deed."

Sahil turned bright red and immediately slammed the drawer shut. "Those devils!" he groaned.

Still shaking his head, he removed his black blazer and rolled up his sleeves, his eyes softening as they met hers.

"Come here," he murmured, reaching for her.

Yashika obeyed, letting him gently unfasten her earrings, necklace, and bangles. His fingers lingered at times, brushing against her skin, leaving behind a trail of warmth.

Every now and then, he placed soft kisses—on her hair, forehead, cheeks, and the delicate curve of her neck. Yashika’s breath hitched when his lips lingered a second longer at the back of her neck.

After removing her jewellery, Sahil reached for a cotton pad and a bottle of makeup remover.

"Close your eyes," he instructed, his voice softer now.

She obeyed, feeling the cool touch of the cotton against her cheeks as he wiped away her makeup with slow, careful strokes.

When he was done, he smiled, tilting her chin up.

"There, my real Yashika," he murmured, his eyes full of adoration.

She blushed, looking down.

Sahil chuckled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Now, where’s your nightdress?"

Yashika blinked, suddenly realizing—her luggage was still in her bridal suite.

Her eyes widened. "Oh no, it’s in my room!"

Sahil sighed, rubbing his neck. "Great. And I bet Aarya and Prerna won’t even open the door for us now."

Yashika pouted helplessly.

Sahil chuckled at her cute expression, shaking his head. "You’re really adorable, you know that?"

Before she could respond, he leaned in and kissed her lips—a little longer this time, savoring the moment.

When he pulled back, her cheeks were warm, her heart racing.

Sahil smirked, stepping away and walking towards his cupboard. He pulled out a white shirt and turned to her.

"Wear this for now," he said, handing it to her.

Yashika stared at the shirt in his hands, her face heating up.

Sahil raised an eyebrow. "What? It’s just a shirt."

She hesitantly took it from him, mumbling, "Still…"

Sahil grinned, leaning in close. "I mean, if you’d rather wear nothing, I’m not complaining."

"SAHIL!" Yashika smacked his chest, turning crimson.

He laughed, dodging her playful punches. "Okay, okay, go change before I lose my patience."

Yashika huffed but grabbed the shirt and hurried to the washroom, her heart pounding in her ears.

As she closed the door, Sahil shook his head, a fond smile playing on his lips.

"God, I love her," he muttered, then went to change into his own nightwear, already excited to see her in his shirt.

.

Yashika emerged from the bathroom, drying her face with a towel. The moment she stepped out, Sahil, who was about to take a sip of water, froze mid-air.

His gaze locked onto her.

She was wearing his white shirt—just his shirt. It hung loosely on her, slipping off her right shoulder, barely covering her thighs, giving a teasing glimpse of her long, perfect legs. Yashika walked to the mirror, completely unaware of the storm she had just stirred within Sahil. He set the bottle down without breaking his gaze. With slow, deliberate steps, he walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her against him. His breath was warm against her bare shoulder as he nuzzled into it, pressing soft, lingering kisses.

"You have no idea what you do to me," he murmured, his lips brushing against her skin.

A shiver ran down her spine as she felt his warm lips tracing up her shoulder, moving to her neck.

She tilted her head, giving him more access.

Sahil smirked against her skin before turning her around to face him. His dark, intense eyes met hers as he cupped her face and captured her lips in a deep, passionate kiss. Yashika melted against him, her fingers gripping his arms. His hands slowly trailed down her sides, over her waist, down her thighs, before gliding under the hem of his shirt. She gasped into the kiss, her body arching into him. Sahil pulled back slightly, his forehead resting against hers. Her face was flushed, lips slightly swollen, and eyes filled with longing.

"You look breathtaking," he whispered, brushing his thumb over her lower lip before capturing it in another kiss—deeper, slower. Without breaking the kissed slid his arms under her and lifted her effortlessly. Yashika let out a soft gasp, gripping his shoulders as he carried her to the bed and gently laid her down on the soft sheets.

She propped herself up on her elbows, her heart pounding as Sahil straightened, gripping the hem of his t-shirt. With slow, deliberate movements, he pulled it over his head and tossed it aside, revealing his toned body.

Yashika’s breath hitched as her gaze trailed over the sharp lines of his muscles, the way the dim lighting cast shadows over his sculpted torso.

He saw the way her lips parted, the way her chest rose and fell just a little faster.

Sahil flicked the switch, turning off the main lights, leaving only a dim amber glow in the room—a golden light that cast a warm hue over the bed, highlighting the way her hair spread across the pillow like silk. He joined her, hovering over her, his weight supported by his arms as he gazed down at her. Yashika smiled, her fingers trailing up his bare chest, her touch featherlight, sending shivers down his spine.

She wrapped her hands around his neck, pulling him closer.

"You’re staring," she whispered, a playful smile tugging at her lips.

Sahil leaned in, his breath warm against her lips. "Can you blame me?"

Yashika giggled softly, but her laughter was swallowed as he captured her lips in a deep, slow kiss. Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as he tilted his head, deepening the kiss, tasting her, feeling her melt beneath him.

His hands slowly, teasingly trailed down her sides, making her arch into his touch, her breath coming in soft, shallow gasps.

Sahil smirked against her lips, relishing the way her body responded to him. He pulled back and tilted her chin up. "Are you nervous?" he asked, his voice laced with mischief.

Yashika swallowed, her cheeks burning. "A little…"

Sahil smirked. "Good. Because I plan to take my time with you, Mrs. Malhotra."

Yashika’s breath hitched as he kissed her again—slow, teasing, and full of promise.

.

.

The soft glow of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting golden hues over the tangled sheets and the two lovers wrapped in each other’s embrace. Sahil’s arms were securely wrapped around Yashika’s waist, his bare chest pressed against her warm skin. His head rested on her chest, rising and falling with her soft, steady breaths. The peaceful silence was soon disturbed by the sharp ringing of Yashika’s phone.

Sahil groaned sleepily, his brows furrowing as he reached out blindly, grabbing the phone from the nightstand. He squinted at the caller ID—Aarya.

He sighed, answering the call in a husky morning voice, "Hmm?"

"Sahil, I’ve left Yashika’s luggage outside your door. Let her know when she wakes up," Aarya informed, her voice filled with amusement. Sahil hummed in response and ended the call, placing the phone back before turning to look at Yashika.

She had stirred slightly at the sound but had turned her back to him, curling into the blanket, her bare back now fully exposed to his gaze.

Sahil’s lips curled into a soft smile. His fingers traced lazy circles on her skin before he leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss between her shoulder blades.

"Good morning, Mrs. Malhotra," he murmured against her skin, pulling her back into his embrace. His face nuzzled into her hair, inhaling her scent. Yashika stirred and groaned softly, her body stiff as she shifted slightly.

"Let me sleep, Sahil..." she mumbled, her voice laced with exhaustion. "My body is aching."

Sahil instantly stilled, his face turning warm as realization hit him. He swallowed and muttered, "I... I'm sorry."

Yashika cracked one eye open and smirked, "You better be."

Sahil’s ears turned red. He buried his face in her neck and whispered, "I didn’t mean to tire you out so much."

Yashika chuckled sleepily, "Liar. You totally did."

Sahil chuckled, "Okay, maybe a little." He kissed her neck softly, "But you didn't complain last night."

Yashika groaned, hiding her face in the pillow, "Stop talking, Sahil, and let me sleep."

Sahil smirked and hugged her tighter, his lips brushing against her ear.

"Fine. But only if you promise to let me make it up to you later," he teased, placing one last lingering kiss on her shoulder before closing his eyes again. Yashika just took a pillow and smacked his head lightly making him chuckle.

.

The air was filled with a bittersweet feeling as everyone stood near their respective cars, ready to leave after the beautiful wedding.

Yashika, with tears brimming in her eyes, hugged Aarya tightly, then Prerna. "I'm going to miss you both so much," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Prerna chuckled, pulling back, "Of course, but it’s just for a month. We’re meeting again at my wedding!"

For a moment, everyone's smiles faltered, and a heavy silence settled over the group.

Ansh, who had been standing still, stared at Prerna in disbelief.

Kartik, holding Kaira in his arms, reached out and patted Ansh’s back lightly, a silent gesture of comfort.

Ansh blinked and snapped back to reality. He turned to Sahil and pulled him into a tight hug.

Sahil, sensing his emotions, rubbed his back reassuringly. "You'll be fine, bro," he muttered, making Ansh smile slightly.

Kartik then side-hugged Yashika and then Sahil.

Sahil smirked, looking at everyone, "So, where are you guys heading now?"

Aarya replied, "First, Kartik and I are going to Jaipur to tell my parents that I got my memory back. Prerna is coming with us because she also wants to meet her parents and will stay there until her wedding. After that, we’ll go to Pune and then come back for Prerna's wedding."

Ansh, clearing his throat, added, "I’ll be heading to Delhi first. I have some hotel work there, and then I’ll go to Pune."

Sahil nodded, "Okie then, see you" and wrapped his hands around Yashika.

With a final wave, Sahil and Yashika settled into his BMW and drove off towards Ludhiana.

Meanwhile, Kartik and Aarya settled into his Range Rover, Aarya comfortably in the backseat with Kaira, while Prerna took the front seat.

Outside the car, Ansh knelt beside Kaira, tickling her tiny belly, making her giggle uncontrollably.

"Chachu, stoppp!" she squealed, trying to push his hands away.

Ansh chuckled, kissing both her chubby cheeks. "I’m going to miss you, princess."

Kaira, still giggling, placed her tiny hands on his face and kissed his cheek sloppily. "Byee Chachuuu!" she babbled, waving her little hands.

Ansh's heart melted, and he sighed, handing her over to Aarya. "Come soon, and bring her back soon, Bhabhi," he said, his voice playful but with a hint of emotion.

Aarya smiled, ruffling his hair. "We will, don’t worry." She then patted Kaira’s back, who was still looking at Ansh with a big smile.

Ansh stood up, and his gaze flickered toward Prerna for a second. She was looking away, playing with the edge of her dupatta, avoiding eye contact.

With a small sigh, he slipped on his shades, masking any emotions, and without another word, turned toward his car. He opened the door, settled inside, and with a final glance through the rearview mirror, instructed the driver to head toward the airport.

As soon as Ansh’s car drove away, Kartik instructed the driver to started his car, making way toward his office building where their chopper was waiting. In the backseat, Kaira snuggled into Aarya's arms, yawning softly.

Kartik glanced at her, "Looks like someone is already sleepy."

Aarya chuckled, kissing Kaira’s forehead. "She played too much with her chachu."

Kartik kissed Aarya's forehead and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. Prerna looking at them from rearview mirror smiled warmly.

.

As soon as Aarya stepped into her home in Jaipur with Kartik, and Kaira, her parents froze in shock. Their eyes widened as they took in the sight of Kartik standing beside Aarya, holding Kaira in his arms. Before anyone could say anything, Kaira wiggled in Kartik’s hold and suddenly jumped towards Manas, stretching her tiny arms. "Mamu!" she squealed with excitement.

Aarya blinked, completely taken aback. Mamu? She turned to look at her brother, who caught Kaira effortlessly, spinning her around as she giggled. Her parents faces broke into wide smiles, as they got to know about Aarya getting her memory back. They all settled into the living room, where Kaira ran around excitedly, playing with Manas and Kartik. Manas tickled her belly, making her squeal in laughter, while Kartik playfully ruffled her hair.

Amidst all the warmth and laughter, Aarya’s parents sat her down and told her something that left her speechless.

"We never lost touch with Kartik, Aarya. Whenever we missed Kaira, Kartik would bring her to Jaipur to meet us."

Aarya’s breath hitched. Her eyes widened as she looked at Kartik, realization washing over her. He had always kept her family close, even when she wasn't around.

Overwhelmed, she turned to Kartik, who was standing near the couch, watching Manas tickle Kaira. Without thinking twice, she got up, walked to him, and wrapped her arms tightly around him.

"I’m so sorry… and I love you so much," she murmured against his chest, tears slipping down her cheeks.

Kartik chuckled softly, wiping her tears with his thumbs.

"And I love you too," he whispered, before placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Aarya, feeling an overwhelming rush of emotions, peppered kisses all over his face—his cheeks, his nose, his chin—making him laugh. Her parents and Manas smiled warmly at the sight, while Kaira clapped her little hands, giggling.

"Mumma, Papa!" she cheered, making everyone burst into laughter.

.

As Prerna stepped into her home, she was immediately engulfed in a tight hug from her mother. Her father ruffled her hair affectionately, and her brother pulled her into a side hug, grinning from ear to ear.

"Finally! Our princess is back!" her mother beamed, cupping her face. Her eyes were filled with joy, completely unaware of the storm brewing inside Prerna. She smiled at them, but her chest felt tight.

"Come, come, you have to see the house!" her father said excitedly, leading her inside.

Prerna walked through the familiar hallways, only to notice the subtle yet significant changes. The walls were freshly painted, fairy lights adorned the corners, and her room had been redecorated with soft pink and gold hues—elegant and bridal.

"We renovated everything for your wedding, beta," her mother chirped happily.

Prerna swallowed hard, forcing a smile. My wedding.

Her mother then eagerly pulled out a box and started showing her all the things she had shopped—jewelry, sarees, intricate lehengas.

"Look at this, Prerna! I specially picked this red one for your wedding day! Doesn’t it look perfect?"

Prerna ran her fingers over the delicate embroidery, her vision blurring with unshed tears.

She thought she was ready for this. She had convinced herself that this was the right path. But no… she wasn’t ready. Not after meeting Ansh again.

She may not remember their kiss, but she remembered how effortlessly happy she was with him. She remembered the warmth in his gaze, the way her heart raced when he was near. And now, she was getting married to someone else.

Her hands trembled slightly as she placed the lehenga back into the box. She couldn't break their happiness.

So she did the only thing she could—she smiled.

"It’s beautiful, Maa," she whispered, her voice betraying none of the turmoil in her heart.

.

As Sahil and Yashika's car entered Ludhiana. The warmth of Punjab already felt like home. As they reached Sahil’s house, a beautifully decorated entrance with marigold flowers and fairy lights awaited them. Sahil’s family stood at the door, waiting to welcome their new daughter-in-law. His mother stepped forward with an aarti thali, a warm smile on her face as she performed the ritual.

"Welcome home, beta," she said softly, cupping Yashika’s face. Yashika felt a lump in her throat. This was truly her home now. She was asked to kick the kalash filled with rice and step into the red alta water. She hesitated for a moment, looking at Sahil, who gave her a reassuring nod. Taking a deep breath, she followed the ritual and stepped inside, her footprints marking the beginning of a new journey. Laughter, teasing, and blessings filled the air as everyone gathered around them. After a long series of traditions, Yashika was finally taken to Sahil’s room.

As soon as she stepped in, Yashika’s eyes wandered around. The room was just like him—charming yet slightly chaotic. The king-sized bed had crisp sheets, the walls were adorned with minimalistic frames. Her gaze softened as she took in every corner, realizing that this was her new space too. Just then, she felt a presence behind her. Turning around, she found Sahil standing at the door, watching her with a soft smile.

"Taking a tour of your new kingdom, Mrs. Malhotra?" he teased, his voice laced with warmth.

Yashika chuckled, shaking her head. Sahil took slow, deliberate steps toward her, his intense gaze never leaving hers. As he reached her, his hands found their way to her waist, pulling her closer.

"You look so beautiful," he murmured, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Yashika felt her cheeks heat up, her hands naturally moving up to rest on his shoulders.

"Sahil…" she whispered, her heart racing as she gazed into his eyes.

He smirked slightly, leaning in to press a lingering kiss on her forehead.

"I still can't believe you're finally mine," he confessed, his voice laced with emotion.

Yashika smiled softly before wrapping her arms around his neck, pulling him into a warm embrace.

"I was always yours, Sahil," she whispered against his shoulder, closing her eyes, feeling the safety and love his arms provided.

Sahil tightened his hold around her waist, swaying them slightly, as if sealing the moment forever.

.

As Ansh’s flight landed in Delhi, he wasted no time and went straight to his hotel branch. The towering building stood tall against the evening sky, its glass windows reflecting the city lights. The moment he entered, his staff greeted him with polite nods, but he only gave a curt response, his mind already drowning in work. For the entire day, he buried himself in meetings, reviewing reports, and checking the hotel’s operations. It was his way of distracting himself, of keeping thoughts of a certain someone at bay. But no matter how much he tried, Prerna’s face kept flashing in his mind. By the time he was done, it was late at night. He left the hotel and drove straight to his penthouse—a sleek, modern space that felt strangely empty today. Entering his room, he loosened his tie and threw it aside, then unbuttoned his shirt, letting out a deep breath. Without even bothering to turn on all the lights, he changed into a casual T-shirt and sweatpants and collapsed onto the bed, staring at the ceiling. His fingers itched to reach for his phone, and after a moment of hesitation, he gave in. Scrolling through his contacts, he stopped at a number he wasn’t even supposed to have—Prerna’s. He had sneakily taken it from Kartik’s phone. With a deep breath, he pressed the call button. The phone rang… once… twice… but no answer. He frowned, tried again—still no response.

"Of course, she won’t pick up," he muttered to himself, throwing the phone on the side table.

With a huff, he turned on his side, closing his eyes. But sleep didn’t come easily that night.

.