Chosen Love

14. Us - Husband and Wife

The room had been quiet for almost ten minutes.

Not silent — weddings were never silent — but quieter than the rest of the venue. The noise of relatives, music testing, and distant laughter reached the bridal suite only as softened echoes.

Inside, everything felt suspended. Ruhika sat before the tall mirror, the heavy bridal lehenga spread carefully around her like a crimson halo.

It was deep traditional red — embroidered with intricate zardozi, beads and sequins that shimmered when she shifted even slightly.

The lehanga was structured, grand, meant for slow ceremonial steps rather than hurried movement.

Gold thread caught the outside light spilling through the window, tiny mirrors stitched between patterns reflecting soft glints across the room.

Her blouse was fitted, elegant, sleeves ending just above the elbow with delicate embroidery running along the edges. Over one shoulder, the bridal dupatta rested — a sheer veil edged in fine red and gold, pinned carefully so it framed her face without hiding it.

For now, it wasn't pulled over her head. That would happen later.

Isha stood behind her, holding two hairpins between her lips while adjusting the bun at the back of Ruhika's head. "Don't move," she warned.

"I'm not moving," Ruhika replied, though the weight of the lehenga had already made her shift twice.

Mehak lounged on the bed nearby, scrolling through her phone but watching everything closely. "You know," she announced dramatically, "I've decided that bridal preparation is just organized panic disguised with flowers.

Ruhika smiled faintly.

Her mehendi-darkened hands rested carefully in her lap, the deep brown patterns now almost black against her skin. Between the intricate vines and motifs, Shivansh's name sat hidden in the design — something she hadn't pointed out yet.

Her chooda had finally been revealed when she changed into the bridal attire. The red and ivory bangles now stacked high along her forearms, kalire hanging delicately from a kada placed first in line. Every small movement made the golden strands chime softly.

It was a sound she wasn't used to yet.

Her mother entered quietly.She paused just inside the room.For a moment she didn't speak.She simply looked.

The makeup artist was adjusting the final touches — soft kohl, a warm blush on Ruhika's cheeks, lips tinted nude. Nothing dramatic. Just enough to enhance what was already there.

Her jewellery lay complete now.A traditional gold and emerald necklace rested along her collarbone, intricate but not overwhelming. Matching jhumkas brushed her neck when she turned slightly. The maang tikka rested at the center of her parting, the delicate chain disappearing into her hair.

The traditional nath — the bridal nose ring — had just been fixed.It transformed her face instantly.Not because it was extravagant.But because it made the moment unmistakable.

Isha stepped back finally. "Done."

Ruhika lifted her eyes slowly to the mirror.For a second she didn't recognize herself.

Not because she looked different.Because she looked.

.. soft,feminine in its highest form.

Not like the woman who had spent the last two months attending meetings, arguing about seating charts, laughing through shopping trips.

This was something else.

Mehak sat up straight. "Okay. That's unfair."

"It's a compliment."

Her mother walked forward then, adjusting the edge of the dupatta near her shoulder.The gesture was small.

Familiar.

Something she had done countless times throughout Ruhika's life — fixing a collar before school, straightening a dupatta before a family function.

But today it lingered longer.

"Comfortable?" her mother asked softly.

Ruhika nodded."Yes."

It wasn't entirely true.The lehenga was heavy.The jewellery was unfamiliar.The room felt full of attention.But beneath all that, something steadier held.

She wasn't overwhelmed.She wasn't uncertain.She was aware.

Aware that downstairs the mandap was prepared.That somewhere across the city, Shivansh was likely getting ready too.

Aware that in a few hours she would walk toward him, not as fiancée — but as bride.

"I'm not crying," Ruhika protested.

Mehak stood up immediately. "Turn slightly."

Ruhika obeyed.The kalire chimed again when she moved.She glanced down at them for a moment, watching the delicate golden strands sway.

Later tonight, during the ceremony, they would brush against Shivansh's hands when she moved.The thought came quietly.Unexpectedly.

Her lips curved slightly.

Ruhika looked once more at her reflection.At the chooda.At the veil waiting to be pulled over her head.

Then she said simply "Just realizing this is actually happening."

Tara was about to say something dramatic when Ruhika's mother stepped forward.

She didn't speak immediately.She simply looked.

For a few seconds longer than usual.Not the quick glance of a mother checking if everything was in place.

Her mother lifted the bridal dupatta gently from the chair beside them.

The fabric was sheer and delicate, embroidered along the border with fine gold thread. She adjusted it carefully over Ruhika's head, letting it fall just enough to frame her face.

The room went quiet.Her mother's hand lingered a moment longer on her head.

"You look beautiful," she said softly.

Ruhika's throat tightened slightly.

Her mother reached for a small kajal stick from the table.Without explanation, she gently turned Ruhika's face to the side and placed a tiny black dot just behind her ear.

Kala teeka.Protection from nazar.

Ruhika blinked. "Mumma..."

Her mother smiled faintly."Brides attract too many eyes," she said quietly.

Then she adjusted the dupatta once more, her fingers brushing Ruhika's cheek."For years," she continued, her voice steady but softer than usual, "I've imagined this day."

Ruhika looked at her through the mirror now.Not as mother and daughter standing across from each other.

But as two women sharing a moment neither could rehearse.

Her mother exhaled slowly."You always walked ahead in life without looking back," she said with a small smile. "Today... just walk slowly."

"Why?" Ruhika asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Her mother's eyes warmed. "So we can watch."

The simplicity of it made Ruhika laugh softly through the tightness in her chest.

Her mother cupped her face gently for a second."Be happy," she said. Then she stepped back slightly, blinking once before her usual composure returned.

Mehak grabbed her phone again."Bride photos. Now."

____________

Shivansh's POV

The atmosphere on Shivansh's side was the opposite of quiet.The room had been loud for almost an hour.

Someone was looking for extra safas. Someone else was arguing about whether the dhol would arrive before the ghodi. Uncles were walking in and out offering unsolicited advice about how a groom should stand, smile, and "not look too serious."

In the middle of it all, Shivansh stood in front of the mirror, fastening the last button of his sherwani.

It was ivory — traditional but understated — with intricate handwork that caught the light when he moved. The embroidery was detailed but not overwhelming, the fabric structured enough to hold its shape without looking stiff.

He adjusted the cuff of his sleeve slowly.Behind him, Aarav was pacing like a wedding manager who had lost control of the event.

"Where is Rohan Bhai?" he demanded.

"This is the worst possible time to experiment with YouTube," Aarav groaned.

Shivansh's lips curved faintly.Despite the chaos, he moved calmly.His watch went on first.Then the brooch.Then he stepped slightly aside so Aarav could fix the layered pearl mala around his neck.

He glanced briefly toward the window.The courtyard outside their home was already alive. The ghodi had arrived. Dhol players were warming up. Cousins were gathering like they were about to lead a small festival procession.

The baraat would begin soon.He exhaled slowly.

This wasn't like attending weddings he had grown up watching.This time the procession was for him.This time he would ride out not as someone's son or brother

But as the groom.

Rohan suddenly clapped his shoulder. "Last chance to run."

Shivansh raised an eyebrow."Tempting."

Aarav snorted. "You're not running anywhere. Maa would hunt you down personally."

As if summoned by the mention of her name, his mother entered the room.The energy shifted instantly.

Not dramatically But noticeably.Aarav stepped aside. Rohan straightened his jacket. Even the joking quieted slightly.

She walked toward Shivansh slowly.For a moment she didn't speak.She simply looked at him.He had been her son in countless versions of life — school uniform, college clothes, office suits.

But today he stood in front of her dressed as a groom.

Her hand lifted automatically to adjust the collar of his sherwani and then to the brooch near his shoulder, fixing it even though it was already perfectly straight.

Her fingers came up briefly, brushing the side of his cheek."She's a good girl," she said softly.

"I know."

Shivansh's expression grew more thoughtful.Before she could respond, the door opened again.His father stepped inside.

He paused just a second when he saw them both standing there."Am I interrupting something emotional?" he asked mildly.

His mother rolled her eyes. "You're always interrupting something."

His father walked closer, looking Shivansh over slowly.

There was no immediate comment.Just a long, assessing look — the kind fathers rarely show openly.

Finally he nodded once."Hmm."

"That's all?" Shivansh called out teasingly. "After raising me for thirty years?"

"You look ready," he said simply.

Shivansh smiled faintly. "I am."

His father adjusted the edge of the safa slightly, the gesture firm but careful."When you were younger," he said thoughtfully, "you used to insist on doing everything your own way."

His father chuckled quietly."No, it hasn't."

Then his tone shifted — not heavier, just more deliberate."Marriage isn't about winning arguments."

Shivansh raised an eyebrow. "That sounds like experience speaking."

His father's expression softened slightly."But you chose well."He glanced toward the window where the courtyard buzzed with preparation."She'll keep you balanced."

Outside, the dhol began beating louder — the unmistakable signal that the baraat was gathering.

Aarav burst through the door again."Alright! Emotional family moment over. Baraat is ready!"

_________

The moment Shivansh stepped out of the house, the sound hit him first.

Dhol.

Not the distant warm-up beats from earlier — but the full, thunderous rhythm of celebration.The courtyard had transformed into complete chaos.Someone had set off a small burst of flower petals as he stepped outside.

Aarav immediately grabbed his arm."Finally! The groom appears."

The ghodi stood near the gate, decorated with red and gold cloth, bells softly chiming as it shifted its weight.

But no one was in a hurry.Because the baraat had its own rhythm.

The dhol players stepped forward.The first heavy beat landed.And that was the official signal.A roar went up from the cousins.

Aarav immediately threw his arm around Shivansh's shoulder. "You don't get to walk quietly to the horse. That's illegal."

Cousins jumped forward, shoulders bouncing in perfect bhangra rhythm. Uncles tried to match the energy and failed spectacularly. Even a few aunties had begun clapping from the side.

Rohan pushed Shivansh into the center.

"Two steps," he ordered.

Shivansh sighed.But then the dhol dropped into a sharper beat.And he gave in.

Just slightly.

His shoulders moved once.

Then again.

The crowd erupted immediately.

For the next few minutes, the baraat lost all structure.

People danced wherever they stood. The road filled with laughter, music, and the unmistakable rhythm of celebration.

Shivansh didn't lose himself in the chaos.But he didn't stand apart from it either.

He moved with it — smiling faintly, occasionally pulled into the center by Aarav and Rohan, who clearly had no intention of letting him remain dignified.

The music slowed just enough for the next ritual.

Shivansh walked toward the decorated horse.As he mounted the ghodi, the dhol resumed again — louder, prouder.

The procession began moving forward slowly.Lights from the baraat band reflected off the road. Children ran ahead laughing. Cousins danced backward while the dhol players kept the rhythm alive.

Aarav continued dancing beside the horse like a man possessed.

Rohan occasionally shouted instructions no one followed.

Shivansh sat steady above the movement.From this height, the entire procession stretched before him — music, laughter, family. The procession moved slowly through the street, exactly the way baraats always did — not with urgency, but with celebration.

But his thoughts had grown quieter.The excitement of the crowd didn't overwhelm him.

Because beneath the noise, he understood what this procession meant.

This wasn't just celebration.This was a journey.

From one home to another.From one life to the next.

Ahead, the wedding venue slowly came into view.

Lights spilled over the entrance gates. Marigold garlands framed the pathway. The faint shimmer of the mandap could already be seen inside.

He wondered briefly what she was doing at that moment.Whether she was standing by the window listening to the distant dhol.

Whether Tara and Mehak were giving her updates every five seconds.Whether she felt the same quiet awareness he did.

The ghodi slowed slightly as the procession approached the venue.The band struck a louder note.

Aarav turned back toward Shivansh with a grin.

"Last chance to run!"

The gates of the venue opened fully now.Guests waiting inside began cheering as the baraat entered.

Flower petals were tossed into the air.Lights brightened.The music surged one final time.

Shivansh glanced ahead toward the mandap — toward the place where the evening's rituals would begin.And for the first time since the celebration had started, the realization settled clearly in his mind.

The dancing would end.The music would quiet.The fire would be lit.

And when the night was over —He wouldn't just leave this place as someone who had attended a wedding.

He would leave it with a wife.

________

Ruhika sat near the window, careful not to shift too much in the heavy bridal lehenga.

This was the moment where everything began moving toward her.The baraat wasn't just music in the distance anymore.

It was a procession carrying her groom.

Carrying him closer.

A faint smile touched Ruhika's lips.

She tried to picture it. Aarav probably leading the chaos. Shivansh somewhere in the middle of it — calm but eventually dragged into dancing anyway.

Outside, the faint beat of dhol suddenly grew louder. Everyone in the room froze.Even Tara stopped mid-sentence.

The sound rolled through the night air — unmistakable now.

"They're close," Mehak said quietly.

Tara rushed to the balcony again."Oh wow."

"They've started the fireworks."

Laughter and cheers floated up from outside.The baraat had reached the venue.

Then curiosity got the better of Isha."Come here," she whispered urgently.

"You don't have to walk. Just... look."Mehak pulled the curtain slightly aside.

Ruhika hesitated.Traditionally, brides weren't supposed to watch the baraat arrive. It was considered inauspicious — the groom should see the bride first during the ceremony.

But the music outside was impossible to ignore.Ruhika shifted carefully and leaned just enough to see through the gap.

The baraat filled the entrance.People dancing, laughing, spinning in circles of celebration.

For a brief second through the shifting crowd.Seated on the ghodi.Ivory sherwani glowing under the lights, the sehra falling softly across his forehead.

He looked exactly like she had imagined.Calm even in the middle of chaos.

Someone tried pulling him down to dance again and Aarav waved his arms dramatically beside the horse.

Ruhika couldn't hear what they were saying.But she could see Shivansh smile faintly.The sight of it did something unexpected inside her.

He looked like himself.The same person she had shared quiet conversations with. The same person who had stood beside her during shopping trips and long wedding preparations.

Isha gasped beside her."You're not supposed to look!" she whispered, though she made no attempt to move away from the curtain herself.

Ruhika stepped back immediately, the faint smile still lingering on her lips."Enough," she said.

Mehak grinned."Worth the rule break?"

Ruhika didn't answer immediately.She lowered her gaze briefly Then she said quietly—"Yes."

_________

Now he stood near the entrance, straightening the cuff of his ivory sherwani as relatives gathered around him. His Pagdi had been adjusted,

The bride's family approached the entrance.

Ruhika's father led them, smiling warmly as he greeted Shivansh's parents. The two families met in the middle beneath the floral arch.

Garlands were exchanged between the elders.Warm embraces followed.Someone jokingly tried to block the groom's path until "entry tax" was paid, which resulted in loud bargaining between cousins from both sides.

Laughter rose easily.Then came the traditional welcome.

Ruhika's mother stepped forward with an aarti thali, the flame flickering gently in the evening air.

She circled it before Shivansh, placing a small tilak on his forehead before lightly nudging the entrance kalash with her foot to symbolically invite him inside.

"You're welcome," she said softly.

Shivansh bowed his head respectfully. And the groom's side entered the venue.Inside, the mandap stood glowing under warm lights — pillars wrapped in jasmine, soft drapes of ivory and gold flowing around it. Guests had taken their seats, the excited murmur of voices filling the air.

But slowly, the music softened.The dhol beats faded.

Because another moment was approaching.At the far end of the aisle, the grand doors opened quietly.

A gentle instrumental began playing.The opening notes of "Dhadak – Title Track."

Soft.Emotional.Almost like a heartbeat.Every head turned.

She looked radiant in deep red — the lehenga shimmering softly under the lights, intricate gold embroidery flowing across the fabric like molten sunlight. Her bridal dupatta framed her face delicately, the border falling gracefully over her head and shoulders.

The chooda peeked through the layers of bangles on her wrists.Her kalire swayed softly with every small movement.

But what truly held the room still was her expression. Just quietly aware of the moment she was stepping into.

On either side of her stood her parents.Her father offered his arm gently.

"Ready?" he asked softly.

She looked at him for a second.Then nodded.

"Yes."

The music swelled slightly.And they began walking.

Petals were scattered along the aisle ahead of them.

With every step, the soft chime of her kalire and bangles filled the silence between notes of the song.

Guests watched quietly.Some aunties already wiping emotional tears.Tara and Mehak stood off to one side near the aisle, practically vibrating with excitement.

___________

Shivansh's POV

At the mandap, Shivansh turned.For the first time that evening, he saw her.

At first he saw only movement — the crowd parting slightly, the glow of lights shifting, the rustle of silk.

Ruhika stood framed beneath the floral archway at the far end of the aisle.For a brief moment he simply stared.

The red of her bridal lehenga caught the warm lights of the venue, every thread of gold embroidery shimmering as she moved.

The dupatta over her head softened the sharp edges of the room, making her appear almost unreal — like the careful image of a bride one imagines but rarely pauses to truly see.

But it wasn't the lehenga that held his attention.It was the way she walked.

Something in Shivansh's chest shifted.He had seen her countless times over the past months.Across dinner tables.In crowded markets.Standing beside him during wedding preparations.Laughing quietly during their trip to the mountains.

Aarav leaned closer beside him and whispered under his breath, unable to resist,"Bhai... breathe."

Shivansh exhaled slowly, almost unaware he had been holding his breath.

His eyes didn't leave her.The closer she came, the more details appeared.The faint nervous calm in her expression.The way the veil framed her face.

The rich dark mehendi against her hands as she held the edge of her dupatta lightly.

And something else.The same quiet composure she always carried.Only tonight it felt deeper.As if she had stepped fully into the moment.

By the time she reached the base of the mandap steps, the room had fallen into near silence.

Her father paused beside her.The final step up to the stage was slightly high because of the layers of her lehenga.

Before anyone could assist, Shivansh moved forward instinctively.He extended his hand toward her. The gesture itself carried a quiet promise.

For a brief second the world around them softened — the music, the lights, the crowd.

He held them gently but firmly, steadying her as she stepped onto the stage.When she reached the mandap floor, he didn't release her hand immediately.

Not intentionally.Just long enough for the moment to settle.Then he let go slowly.

Guests began clapping softly around them.

But Shivansh was still looking at her.And for the first time that evening, a small, genuine smile appeared.

Not the polite smile he had worn through greetings and photographs.A quieter one.The kind that came from seeing something he hadn't fully prepared himself for.

He leaned slightly closer, his voice low enough that only she could hear. "Now I understand why everyone kept saying the bride would outshine the groom."

Ruhika blinked, caught off guard.

He glanced at her veil, the jewellery, the deep red silk that caught the lights with every small movement.

________

The priest signaled gently for the next ritual to begin. "Jaimala."

A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd immediately.Because this was the first moment the bride and groom would formally acknowledge each other in front of everyone.

Two cousins hurried forward carrying the garlands — thick strands of fresh jasmine and roses woven together, their fragrance drifting softly through the mandap.

Ruhika watched as one of the garlands was placed carefully into Shivansh's hands.

Then the other was given to her.

For a brief second they simply stood facing each other.

Guests leaned forward in their seats.Phones appeared instantly.

Isha whispered loudly from the front row, "Don't let him win easily."

Aarav immediately responded from the other side, "Bhai, don't bend!"

Rohan clapped once dramatically. "This is war."

A few aunties laughed softly.

Shivansh shook his head faintly, amused.Then he looked at Ruhika again.

The teasing around them faded a little.

She held the garland carefully, adjusting the weight of it so the flowers didn't catch in her bangles.For a moment she hesitated — not because the garland was heavy, but because the moment suddenly felt real in a way the teasing crowd could not understand.

Shivansh noticed.

The crowd groaned immediately."Areee!" Aarav protested loudly. "Bhai!"

Rohan clutched his head dramatically. "He surrendered!"

But Shivansh ignored them completely.His eyes stayed on Ruhika. As if the entire idea of turning this into a playful competition had never crossed his mind.

Then slowly placed the garland over his shoulders.The flowers brushed against his sehra as they settled into place.The courtyard erupted with cheers.

But for a second longer—Shivansh leaned slightly closer and murmured quietly enough that only she could hear,"I'm not competing with you."

Her brows lifted faintly."Why?"

A small smile touched the corner of his mouth."Because I'm here to marry you."

The simplicity of it caught her off guard.She lowered her gaze briefly, a faint smile appearing despite the noise around them.

Then it was his turn.

He lifted his garland. For a second he didn't place it immediately.Not because he was hesitating — but because he looked at her properly.

The faint flush on her face from the lights and the attention.And the small smile she was trying very hard not to show.

The noise of cousins protesting around them continued.

"Don't make it easy!" Aarav shouted again.

"Make him work for it!" Isha added dramatically.

Not for the ritual.But for the moment itself.

Her lips curved softly and she inclined her head slightly, lowering it just enough.Not dramatically. Just enough to meet him halfway.

The noise around them faded again.

He stepped closer.The garland lowered slowly over her head, the roses and jasmine brushing gently against her veil before settling across her shoulders.

For a second his hands lingered near the edge of her dupatta.The garland had shifted it slightly.

Without thinking about the crowd or the cameras, he reached up and adjusted the veil where it had slipped — setting the embroidered edge neatly back over her head.

Ruhika stilled slightly at the touch, her eyes lifting briefly toward him.Neither of them said anything.

But the small act didn't go unnoticed.A few aunties in the audience exchanged knowing glances

Aarav groaned. "Bhai is setting unrealistic standards."

But Shivansh had already stepped back beside her again.The garlands now resting around both their shoulders.

The priest smiled approvingly and gestured toward the mandap.

"Now," he said warmly.

"Let us begin the wedding rituals."

___________

The priest gestured gently toward the mandap."Please take your seats."

Shivansh and Ruhika moved toward the center, guided carefully by cousins so the garlands and dupatta didn't tangle in the mandap décor.

The sacred fire pit sat ready between them, brass vessels and ritual items arranged neatly on a low wooden platform.

Once seated, the priest began chanting softly, the rhythmic Sanskrit mantras creating a calm contrast to the festive chaos that had filled the evening earlier.

This was the moment the ceremony truly began.A brass thali was brought forward.Ruhika's father and mother stepped toward Shivansh together.

The priest explained quietly, "Madhuparka."

The ritual of welcoming the groom as the one who would now share responsibility for their daughter's life.

A small bowl of sweetened milk and honey was offered first.Ruhika's mother held it out with both hands.

"Please," she said warmly.

Shivansh accepted it respectfully, taking a small sip before returning the bowl.

Then another small ritual tray was placed near the mandap floor.A silver lota filled with water.A small cloth.

The priest nodded toward it.

Ruhika's father bent slightly, reaching for the vessel. For a moment Shivansh didn't realize what he was about to do.

Then he understood.The traditional gesture of washing the groom's feet.

A mark of respect and gratitude.Before the water could even be lifted—Shivansh moved.

Ruhika's father paused, looking up in surprise.

Shivansh had already leaned forward slightly."You don't have to do that," he said gently.

"It's tradition," her father replied with a small smile.

"I know," Shivansh said.

"But please don't."There was no awkwardness in his voice.Just quiet sincerity.

For a moment the two men looked at each other.The courtyard around them had grown unexpectedly quiet, a few relatives watching the exchange with curious smiles.

Then Shivansh added softly,"You've already trusted me with your daughter.That's more than enough respect."

Ruhika's father studied him for a second longer.Then he straightened slowly.

Shivansh nodded once."I will."

Beside them, Ruhika watched the moment unfold silently.Something about the exchange softened her expression.

The priest smiled approvingly, clearly pleased with the sentiment.

"Well," he said lightly, adjusting his glasses.

"Then we shall proceed."The sacred fire was lit.

The mandap filled with the warm glow of the flames as the mantras resumed.And slowly—

The wedding moved into the next sacred step of their union.The priest adjusted the sacred thread near the havan and looked up.

"Now we will perform the gathbandhan." A small stir passed through the mandap.The priest glanced toward the bride's side and said gently,

"The bride's sister may come forward to tie the knot."

For a second Mehak didn't realize it was meant for her. Then Isha nudged her shoulder."That's you."

Mehak blinked. "Oh."She stood up quickly, smoothing her dupatta with sudden seriousness as she stepped toward the mandap.

The priest handed her the loose end of Shivansh's stole."Bring the bride's dupatta."

Mehak reached for the edge of Ruhika's veil.Just as she did, Ruhika spoke softly."Wait."

Mehak looked at her, confused.Ruhika turned her head slightly toward the front row."Isha," she called gently.

Tara looked up immediately."Yes?"

"Come here.With Mehak" The invitation caught her off guard.

"You sure?" she whispered.

Ruhika nodded faintly."You should help."

For a moment Isha simply stared at her, and Mehak passed a small smile

Then she stood, trying very hard not to look emotional as she walked toward the mandap.

"Of course I should," she said, pretending confidence."You'd mess it up otherwise."

A few cousins chuckled softly.Now both girls stood beside Ruhika.

Mehak held Shivansh's stole while Isha carefully lifted the edge of Ruhika's dupatta.

The priest smiled knowingly."Two witnesses," he murmured."Very good."

Mehak tied the first loop slowly, concentrating as if this knot carried the importance of the entire wedding.

Mehak adjusted the fabric so it wouldn't crease."You're tying it too tight," Isha whispered.

"That's the point," Mehak replied."It's symbolic."

Shivansh glanced down briefly at the two of them working over the knot with complete seriousness.

"Should I be concerned?" he asked quietly.

Isha looked up at him."Very."

Ruhika couldn't help smiling slightly.Finally Mehak pulled the knot firm, securing the end of the dupatta to Shivansh's stole.The fabrics now rested between them.One thread linking their movements.

The priest nodded approvingly."From this moment," he said gently, "you are bound together for the rest of the rituals."

Isha stepped back slowly. Then she squeezed her shoulder lightly before stepping back beside Mehak.

And as the priest resumed chanting—The knot between Ruhika and Shivansh rested quietly between them.

Simple.Unbreakable for the rest of the ceremony and symbolic of something that had already begun forming long before that moment

The priest's chanting softened for a moment before he spoke again."Now we will perform Kanyadaan."

The word itself shifted the atmosphere under the mandap.Even the cousins who had been whispering a moment ago grew quiet.

Her father sat beside her slowly, as if suddenly aware that every movement carried weight now. Her mother settled on the other side, adjusting the edge of Ruhika's dupatta instinctively

The priest placed a small brass bowl filled with sacred water in her father's hands."Place your daughter's hand in the groom's hand.

For a brief second her father simply held her hand in his.His thumb brushed lightly against her knuckles.

The same hand he had held crossing busy streets.The same hand that had clutched his finger on her first day of school.The same hand that had once reached out for reassurance during small childhood fears.

Now it was steady.Adorned with bridal jewellery.Ready to be placed somewhere else.He inhaled slowly before extending his hand toward Shivansh.

Ruhika felt the moment before it happened.The quiet transition.

Her father placed her hand into Shivansh's.For a second the world seemed to narrow to that single point of contact.Her father's warm, familiar grip slowly loosened.And Shivansh's hand closed gently around hers.

The shift was small.Almost invisible.But Ruhika felt it.

Not like something being taken away.More like something being handed forward.

The realization arrived all at once. Her father's hand leaving hers.And someone else holding it instead.

Across from them, Ruhika's father poured the sacred water over their joined hands as the priest continued the mantras.

The stream flowed slowly between their fingers, glistening in the firelight before falling onto the sacred ground below.

Ruhika's mother rested her palm lightly over her daughter's wrist for a moment.A silent blessing.

Her eyes had grown moist, though she tried to hide it behind a faint smile.

The priest spoke softly as the ritual continued."Today the parents entrust their daughter to a new household, to a partnership built on trust and companionship."

The words hung quietly in the air.A symbolic offering.

A father's trust.A daughter's new beginning.Ruhika inhaled quietly, steadying herself.

And when she finally lifted her eyes again—Her hand was still in Shivansh's.

Held firmly. she felt Shivansh's fingers tighten slightly around hers.Like it belonged there.

Isha looked down at her lap, suddenly very interested in adjusting her bracelet.Aarav shifted uncomfortably beside Rohan.

No one spoke.Because the weight of the ritual didn't need explanation.

The space between them changed. The sacred fire flickered between the couple.Their hands still joined.And the ceremony moved forward—

With Ruhika and Shivansh now seated not as two individuals being married,but as partners stepping into the vows that would follow.

_____________

The sacred fire crackled softly in the center of the mandap, its warm glow reflecting off the gold embroidery of Ruhika's lehenga and the ivory silk of Shivansh's sherwani.

The priest adjusted the offerings near the havan and spoke calmly."Now the couple will perform Saptapadi — the seven sacred vows that bind them in marriage."

He gestured gently toward the knot that joined their garments."The gathbandhan will guide them through these vows."

Shivansh stood first.He turned slightly and extended his hand toward Ruhika.

The movement was natural now.Just the quiet instinct of someone helping her rise under the weight of the bridal attire.

Ruhika placed her hand in his.

For a moment their garlands brushed softly together as they stood.

The priest motioned toward the fire. "You will walk around the sacred fire seven times. Each step is a promise — not just spoken today, but lived every day after."

The knot between them shifted slightly as they began moving.

The first step felt unfamiliar.The heavy lehenga rustled against the floor, the chooda chiming faintly with each movement.

But they moved slowly, carefully, together.

The priest's voice carried clearly."In the first step, the couple prays for nourishment and prosperity. They promise to provide for one another and build a stable home."

Shivansh led the first step around the fire.Ruhika followed.

The firelight flickered between them.The promise felt practical.Foundational.

Ruhika felt his pace adjust slightly so she could walk comfortably.She noticed.

And something about that small consideration made the vow feel less abstract.

The priest continued the chant, his voice steady over the crackle of the sacred fire.

"In the second step, the couple promises strength — to support one another in body, mind, and spirit. To stand together in times of difficulty as much as in moments of happiness."

Ruhika glanced briefly toward Shivansh's shoulder as they turned around the sacred flame.

He didn't look back.But she noticed the way he walked. Not once did the knot between them pull tight.

Not once did she have to rush to keep up.That quiet patience felt familiar.For the first time during the pheras,

Shivansh turned his head slightly. As if confirming she was alright.Ruhika gave the faintest nod.

It wasn't a grand gesture.

Just a quiet acknowledgment between two people walking the same path.

The priest lifted another small offering toward the sacred fire and continued the chant.

"In the third step, the couple prays for prosperity and the strength to grow together. They promise to build a life through effort, trust, and shared purpose."

The flames rose slightly as ghee was poured into the havan.A warm glow filled the mandap.

Shivansh led the next step. Ruhika's eyes lifted briefly toward the sacred fire as they completed the turn.

Prosperity.Growth.Words that sounded large when spoken aloud.

But somehow, walking beside him in that quiet circle, they felt simpler.Less like promises about the future.

The priest's chanting softened slightly as the couple prepared for the next step around the sacred fire.

"This fourth phera," he said gently, "is the vow of love, respect, and harmony."

For the first time since the pheras had begun, Shivansh shifted slightly closer to Ruhika.

Ruhika's gaze lowered briefly toward their joined hands.He wasn't holding her tightly.

Just firmly enough that she didn't have to think about where to place her steps. there was something quieter in the way he held her hand — a silent reassurance in the middle of the ceremony's gravity.

As they completed the fourth circle, the priest raised his hand gently."For the remaining pheras," he said calmly, "the bride will lead."

Ruhika moved forward. Shivansh followed.The priest continued chanting."In the fifth phera, the couple prays for the well-being of their family and the responsibility of nurturing future generations."

The words carried a different weight.The vow extended beyond just the two of them.It spoke of the families seated around the mandap.Of the homes they came from.And of the life they would eventually build together.

Ruhika walked slowly around the sacred fire.The veil over her head shifted gently as she moved, the red silk of her lehenga glowing in the firelight.

Through this vow, the couple promises to honor their parents and support one another in caring for the family they create.

"

As they completed the circle, Ruhika's gaze briefly met her mother's.Her mother smiled through the emotion in her eyes. A silent blessing.

In the sixth phera, the couple promises lifelong companionship.

"

The fire crackled softly as another offering was placed into it.

"In this step," the priest explained, "they vow to stand beside each other in every season of life — in happiness and hardship, in growth and uncertainty, walking together as partners. "

Ruhika began the next circle. The vow of companionship carried a quiet simplicity.

Not grand promises.Just the understanding that neither of them would walk alone anymore.

As they turned around the sacred fire, Shivansh looked briefly toward Ruhika.From behind he could see the veil framing her shoulders, the kalire swaying softly with each step she took.

The priest looked at the couple with a warm expression.In this step, the couple vows lifelong friendship, trust, and devotion. They promise to walk together with loyalty and mutual respect for the rest of their lives."

Ruhika began the final circle around the sacred fire

Every guest watching understood that this was the last step before the marriage would be complete.

The sacred fire flickered brightly between them.

Ruhika walked slowly, the weight of the ritual settling gently over her shoulders.

For a moment the mandap remained still. The priest adjusted the offerings near the havan and then looked toward the couple.

"The pheras are complete."His voice softened slightly as he continued.

"Now the bride will move to the groom's left side."

Ruhika shifted slightly where she stood.

Until now she had walked ahead for the final vows.Now the priest gestured for her to sit beside Shivansh.

Shivansh stepped back half a pace to give her space.

The heavy lehenga rustled softly as she moved carefully around the sacred fire and settled beside him.

For the first time since the ceremony had begun, they were seated side by side in their final position.

Ruhika adjusted the edge of her dupatta gently over her head.Her hands rested quietly in her lap.

The priest reached for the small silver box placed on the ritual tray.He opened it carefully.

The air around the mandap seemed to hold its breath.

"Now," the priest said softly, "the groom will place sindoor in the bride's maang."

Shivansh looked down at the small box being offered to him.For the first time that evening, a visible seriousness crossed his expression.

Then he paused.Instead he leaned slightly toward her.

His voice low enough that only she could hear."May I?"

The question surprised her.Not because the ritual required it.But because he had asked anyway.

Ruhika lifted her gaze slowly toward him.The moment felt impossibly quiet despite the hundreds of guests watching.

Ruhika lowered her eyes slightly as he lifted the edge of her dupatta and then her maang tika just enough to reveal the parting of her hair.

And then, as he withdrew his hand, a small trace of the vermilion slipped from his fingers.

For a moment she didn't move.The sensation was unfamiliar.The weight of the vermilion.The warmth of the moment.And the realization of what had just happened.

Not abruptly.Just enough to stop him.

Ruhika held his wrist for a second longer before letting it go.Then she shook her head softly.Her lips curved slightly.

Not a wide smile.Just a small one.The kind that appeared when something unexpectedly meaningful happened.

The faint streak of sindoor remained on the bridge of her nose.And somehow, in that quiet moment between them, it felt right to leave it there.

Her eyes lowered again, her fingers brushing lightly against the edge of her dupatta as she composed herself.

Because beneath the calm expression, she felt the shift settle fully.This wasn't just ritual anymore. It was her destiny

Behind them, one of the older aunties watching from the front row leaned toward another and whispered happily,"Dekha? Sindoor naak par girna bahut shubh hota hai."

Another voice chimed in warmly."Iska matlab hai pati-patni mein pyaar aur sukh bana rahega."

Ruhika heard it.Her smile deepened just a little.

Shivansh looked at her again.The faint streak of vermilion still rested across the bridge of her nose, catching the glow of the sacred fire.

And something about the sight of it—Made the moment feel unexpectedly intimate as now he was seeing the woman who carried his name in the most visible symbol of marriage.

The priest reached again for the ritual tray placed beside the sacred fire.This time he lifted a small velvet box.He opened it slowly.

The priest placed it gently into Shivansh's hands."Now the groom will tie the mangalsutra," he said softly.

The black beads glimmered softly between his fingers.

The design was understated — the kind of jewellery she naturally gravitated toward without ever needing to say it aloud.

Shivansh saw the moment she recognized it.

Her eyes studying the chain.The slight shift in her expression.He didn't say anything.

Instead he simply lifted it gently. Ruhika bowed slightly.

The veil shifted as the embroidered edge of her dupatta was moved aside so the chain could be placed around her neck.

The closeness.The significance of the moment.

The metal felt cool against her skin.The chain settled into place just above the neckline of her blouse.

A symbol.A promise.The final ritual completing the marriage.

It felt unfamiliar.New.But strangely right.She looked at him.Just for a second.

The words were simple.But the way she said them carried something softer — an acknowledgement that she understood the thought behind it.

Shivansh glanced briefly at the mangalsutra resting against her neck, then back at her.

Ruhika's fingers brushed the pendant again, almost unconsciously, feeling the smooth gold and the line of black beads between her fingertips.

It felt different.And yet, strangely natural. Like something that had just quietly become part of her.

For a second longer, neither of them said anything.

Then the priest's voice rose again, chanting the final blessings over the sacred fire as the gathered families clapped and showered them with petals, "With the sacred vows completed, the seven pheras taken, the sindoor applied, and the mangalsutra tied — from this moment onward, these two souls are bound in marriage. "

Somewhere behind them, Aarav whistled loudly while Tara shushed him immediately.

But for a second, Ruhika and Shivansh barely noticed the noise.

Not smiling widely.Just a quiet steadiness in his expression.As if the weight of what had just happened had finally reached him.

Her lips curved faintly beneath the bridal veil.

"Yes."

A tiny pause passed between them.Then she added softly,"Husband."

The word hung between them for a moment.Shivansh's expression shifted — something warmer appearing in his eyes.He inclined his head slightly and said "Wife."

And just like that, the ceremony that had begun with two families had quietly ended with two people who now belonged to one another.

_____________

The formal rituals had ended.But another ritual had quietly begun.Blessings.One by one, elders stepped forward.

Ruhika and Shivansh rose from their seats together, instinctively turning toward the first pair waiting before them.

Her grandparents.

They bent down together.Hands touching the elders' feet.Palms lifted to bless their heads.

"Khush raho."

Ruhika felt the weight of the jewellery at her neck shift as she stood again.Her mangalsutra rested quietly against the embroidery of her blouse.The sindoor in her hairline caught the soft light of the mandap lamps.

Every blessing seemed to deepen the realization settling slowly inside her.This wasn't just a ceremony anymore.This was her new life beginning.

His mother placed hands gently over their head, her fingers lingering a moment longer than usual.His father clapped his shoulder firmly.

A rare softness in his expression.

When Shivansh straightened again, Ruhika was beside him.They moved through the line together.

Uncles.

Aunts.

Friends.

Cousins pushing forward just to hug them instead of offering formal blessings.

At one point, Isha wrapped her arms tightly around Ruhika and whispered dramatically,"You're officially someone's wife now."

Ruhika laughed softly despite the lump rising in her throat.

Aarav shook Shivansh's hand as if concluding a business deal."Congratulations," he said solemnly. "You survived the rituals."

Rohan added loudly, "For now."

Shivansh only shook his head faintly, amused.But every few moments his eyes drifted back to Ruhika — almost as if confirming she was still beside him.

And every time, she was.Standing just half a step away.

Slowly, the tone of the gathering began to shift.The laughter softened.Voices lowered.

Someone in the distance began organizing the next ritual.The one everyone knew was coming.

Ruhika noticed it in the way her mother suddenly grew quieter.In the way her father kept looking at her when he thought she wasn't noticing.

In the way a few aunties began gathering near the entrance.The celebration had reached its peak.

And now another moment waited just beyond it. Ruhika stood beside Shivansh as relatives continued offering congratulations.

For a second, she turned her head slightly toward the venue entrance.The early morning air drifted in through the open doors.Somewhere outside, the car meant for her departure had already been decorated.

Waiting.The next ritual.The one every bride knew was inevitable.

Shivansh noticed her glance toward the entrance. He didn't say anything.He simply stood a little closer beside her.Just enough that their shoulders brushed.

The mandap lights shimmered softly over the two of them —Newly married, Surrounded by blessings,

standing at the fragile edge between celebration and farewell.Because the wedding had just ended.

But the Bidaai...was still to come.

_______________

________________

So, the wedding is done!??

Please vote and leave comments ????

Any scene recommendations for the coming chapters?!?!??????

See you in the next chapter!??????