37.

Abhiraj's POV

“How can this happen? There must be something wrong. Check again” I say to Varun over the call, my voice sharp with frustration. Something isn’t right in the company and I know it. That’s why I told Varun to go through everything carefully. My jaw tightens as I end the call, feeling a weight settle in my chest.

I walk downstairs, my steps firm against the marble floor. The house is buzzing with activity. Almost all the decorations are done and the wedding is tonight. There’s a rush everywhere.

Workers are moving around, setting up the final touches. Some are adjusting the flower garlands, others are arranging the chairs, while a few are fixing the lights. The scent of fresh marigolds and roses fills the air, mixing with the sound of chatter and footsteps.

Mira and Jiya are upstairs, getting ready in their room. I know Mira will look breathtaking as always. Zar is out with Dev. they’ve gone to buy some last minute things for the puja and other rituals. My eyes roam over the decorations as I step outside the mansion and look toward the mandap. It’s simple yet elegant, exactly how my baby sister and my baby Mira wanted it. The white and gold drapes sway lightly with the breeze and the strings of jasmine flowers hanging from the top make it look magical.

A car’s engine hums in the distance and I see Dev’s car pulling into the driveway. He steps out, looking relaxed, with a shopping bag in his hand. Zar jumps out right after him, his tail wagging fast. His blue eyes shine with excitement as he trots toward Dev’s side looking unusually happy.

My brows pull together as I step toward them. “Why are you both smiling so much?” I ask narrowing my eyes. Dev and Zar exchange a quick look before smirking. That silent exchange says it all....they’re hiding something from me.

“It’s our personal talk” Dev says, his smirk widening as he grips the bag tightly. His tone is teasing and I can feel the amusement rolling off him.

I scoff crossing my arms over my chest. “Really?” I mutter my gaze shifting between Dev and Zar. They definitely know something I don’t but I know I won’t get anything out of them. Not yet.

Suddenly, Dev’s phone buzzes. His smirk fades as he pulls the phone from his pocket and looks at the screen. Without a word, he turns away and walks toward the garden, his phone pressed to his ear. That’s strange. Dev never walks away to take a call especially not during a conversation with me.

My gaze drops to Zar, who is now sitting beside me, his tail swishing against the ground. I crouch down to his level and gently run my hand through his soft fur. His blue eyes lock with mine as he leans his head into my palm.

“You’re hiding things from your dadda?” I ask softly brushing his fur behind his ear.

Zar shakes his head instantly, his eyes widening with innocence. Then he leans closer and rubs his face against my arm, his tail thumping gently against my leg.

I sigh my hand resting on his head. “You’re definitely hiding something” I whisper but Zar just tilts his head and gives me a playful look, his eyes shining with mischief.

“Today your dadda is getting married to your mumma. Are you excited?” I ask Zar.

His ears perk up and the next second, he starts jumping around like a wild kangaroo. My tiger looks so excited that I can’t help but chuckle. His tail is wagging fast and he’s bouncing around, making small happy sounds. His blue eyes sparkle with excitement and I know he understands what’s happening.

My phone starts ringing in my pocket. I pull it out and see my baby’s name flashing on the screen. A soft smile forms on my face as I answer the call.

“Hello, babe” I say sweetly, my voice soft.

“Abhi, please send Zar to my room” she says directly, without any greeting.

I scoff, shaking my head. Of course. She gives more attention to Zar than me. But it’s okay. After tonight all her attention will be mine. That’s what I’m counting on.

“Okay, I’m sending him” I reply. Before I can say anything else, she hangs up the call without a word. I sigh slipping my phone back into my pocket.

Zar has heard everything. He’s looking at me with those knowing blue eyes. Before I can tell him anything, he stands up and starts walking toward the mansion.

His head is held high, his tail swaying behind him with pride. His walk is slow and confident, like a king entering his palace. That attitude—just because his mumma called him. My little attitude king.

I shake my head, amused and stand up. When I turn around, I spot Dev standing at a distance. He’s looking at me but something is off. His expression is tight and there’s a flicker of pain in his eyes. My smile fades as I walk toward him.

“What happened?” I ask stopping in front of him. His shoulders are tense and his jaw is clenched.

He sighs and rubs the back of his neck. His eyes meet mine and I can see the seriousness there. “Some confidential files from my company are missing” he says quietly.

My eyes widen in shock. “How?” I ask, my mind already racing.

Dev shrugs his lips pressing into a thin line. “I don’t know” he mutters his frustration clear.

I start thinking about who could have done this. It’s not easy to get access to confidential files in Dev’s company. Someone close to him must be involved. My fists clench as I try to figure it out.

“It’s okay” Dev says after a moment placing a hand on my shoulder. “Don’t think about it too much. Today is our wedding day. We should focus on that and enjoy our special day right?” He tries to smile but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

I nod slowly, understanding what he’s trying to say. But I know this isn’t over. “Yeah, you’re right” I say my tone softer.

Without thinking, I pull Dev into a hug. My arms wrap around his back as I pat him gently. “We’ll figure this out later” I say quietly, trying to comfort him.

Dev sighs relaxing slightly in my hold. “Yeah” he whispers.

I tighten my arms around him, silently promising that no matter what happens, we’ll handle it together.

Jiya's POV

It’s 5 in the evening and we’re getting ready for the wedding. The makeup artists are working hard, carefully blending shades to give us that perfect, natural look. I’m sitting beside Mira in our room, surrounded by soft chatter and the light hum of hairdryers. The wedding will start after 7, so we still have a couple of hours left.

I glance at Mira, whose makeup is already done. She looks stunning, her features soft and glowing under the lights. Zar is sitting on the bed, his big blue eyes watching us with pure fascination.

He hasn’t moved from the room since we started getting ready, as if he’s making sure we’re okay. His tail is curled around his body and his head is slightly tilted as he observes the makeup artists with curiosity. My  Zar, is really something special.

“Zar don’t you want to get ready?” I ask, looking at him with a smile. His ears perk up and he tilts his head before nodding slowly.

“Then go baby. Tell your dadda to make you ready” Mira says softly, her voice warm and sweet. Zar immediately stands up his tail wagging as he jumps off the bed.

Mira signals him to come toward her with her hand. Zar trots over to her, his eyes shining with excitement. Mira bends down and strokes his soft fur.

“Don’t trouble your dadda and uncle okay baby?” she whispers, pressing a gentle kiss to his head. Zar closes his eyes for a second soaking up the affection.

Mira straightens up and zar walks out of the room.

“Dev and bhai must be busy right now” I say turning to Mira.

She nods, brushing her fingers through her hair. “But most of their work is already done so they should be free by now” she replies.

I take out my phone and quickly type a message to Dev. “Did you get ready?”

Within five seconds, my phone buzzes with his reply. “Yes love. I’m getting ready. Are you done with your makeup and everything?”

I smile and reply back. “Yes, just a few things left”

My heart warms at how quickly he responded. Even with everything going on, Dev never keeps me waiting. A soft blush creeps onto my cheeks as I stare at my phone, feeling that familiar rush of excitement.

“It feels like a dream that I’m getting married to you, love” Dev’s message pops up on my phone again. A soft chuckle escapes my lips as I read his words.

“Believe it, Mr. Malhotra. I’m going to be yours and we are getting married” I reply my fingers tapping lightly on the screen. A second later, he sends a happy tears emoji and I can’t help but smile.

I put my phone aside and lean back on the chair, my heart fluttering with happiness. Mira and I....both getting married on the same day to the loves of our lives.

I never thought we would be this lucky. But here we are, about to marry men who treat us like precious treasures and love us with their whole hearts. What more could a girl possibly want in life?

“Ma’am, your makeup and everything is done” the makeup artist says politely standing beside me. She starts packing up her brushes and palettes.

I look at myself in the mirror one last time. My eyes soften at the reflection staring back at me. The makeup artist has done an incredible job....it’s perfect yet natural. She didn’t hide my features she enhanced them. I feel beautiful.

“Thank you so much, all of you” Mira says warmly to the makeup artists. They smile and bow slightly before leaving the room.

I turn toward Mira and feel my breath catch for a second. “Mira, you’re looking so beautiful” I say, walking toward her carefully, the weight of my heavy lehenga making my steps slow.

Mira turns to look at me. Her eyes are glistening with unshed tears and a soft smile tugs at her lips. Without a word she lifts her hands and gently holds my face. Her touch is light, warm. Slowly she leans in and presses a soft kiss on my forehead.

“You’re looking like an angel” she whispers, her eyes soft with affection as she gazes at me.

“And you’re not looking any less than an angel yourself” I reply my voice filled with warmth. I lean forward and place a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Mira’s eyes search mine for a few seconds. Her smile deepens and then she starts speaking, her voice low and filled with emotion.

“We were just babies when we first met and now look at us...we’re getting married on the same day” Mira says softly, her voice filled with wonder.

I nod my head, smiling as old memories flash through my mind. From childhood games to teenage heartbreaks.....we’ve been through everything together. And now we’re about to start a whole new chapter of our lives together.

Suddenly Mira’s phone starts ringing. She picks it up and glances at the screen. It’s bhai.

“Why is he video calling?” she asks raising her eyebrows.

I smirk giving her a teasing smile. “Because he wants to see his bride” I say wiggling my brows. Mira’s cheeks flush pink and she bites her lip, trying to hide her smile.

She answers the call but immediately covers the camera with her fingers.

“Baby, please show me how you’re looking in your wedding attire” bhai’s voice comes through the speaker sounding soft and almost pleading.

His tone is completely different from his usual cold, commanding voice. He sounds like a child begging for candy.

I smile, amused at how my strong intimidating brother turns so soft around Mira.

“No Mr. Rajvansh. Wait for one more hour” Mira teases, her voice playful.

Bhai lets out a dramatic pout. “You’re so mean” he complains, and Mira and I laugh.

Mira suddenly narrows her eyes at the screen. “Wait… are you not ready yet?” she asks her voice sharp. Bhai is still in his casual clothes and the wedding is about to start in one hours.

“I’m getting ready but your son was taking too long to get dressed. That’s why I’m late” bhai explains, sounding a bit defensive.

Mira sighs and shakes her head. “Okay get ready fast. And please send something for us to eat...I’m starving” she says her hand resting on her stomach.

I turn toward her, my eyebrows raising in disbelief. “You literally ate a full course meal an hour ago” I say, amused.

Mira looks at me her eyes wide with innocence. Then she grins sheepishly. “I don’t know why I’m so hungry today” she says with a shrug.

Bhai chuckles through the phone. “Okay, I’ll send something for you” he says before hanging up.

Mira leans back on the couch and sighs. “Seriously why am I feeling so hungry?” she mutters.

I smirk and tilt my head toward her. “Maybe you’re gaining energy so you don’t get tired easily at night” I say winking.

Mira’s eyes widen, and she smacks my arm. “Shut up!” she says but her cheeks are now bright red. I laugh rubbing my arm.

Just then a worker enters the room, pushing a trolley filled with different snacks and juices. She parks it in front of us and leaves without a word. The smell of freshly baked pastries and spicy samosas fills the air.

Mira’s eyes light up as she grabs a plate. “Come on, let’s eat” she says already reaching for a samosa.

I grab a glass of juice and settle comfortably on the couch. We sit there, enjoying our snacks and talking, the excitement of the upcoming wedding buzzing between us.

Mira's POV

I and Jiya are walking towards the mandap right now. My heart is beating fast and my hands feel cold, but there’s a strange warmth spreading through me.

Mira ↑

Jiya ↑

My eyes fall on Abhi and my breath hitches. He is standing there in the mandap, waiting for me. His sherwani is deep royal white with minimal work, making him look nothing less than a king..... my king.

Abhiraj↑

His dark hair is neatly set and his sharp features are glowing under the soft lights of the mandap. His eyes, those deep brown eyes that I love so much, are fixed on me. There’s a slight shine in them, a thin layer of tears forming but his smile—soft and full of love, doesn't fade for even a second. His eyes don’t leave mine not even for a second.

Just beside him, Dev is standing, wearing a white colored sherwani with gold detailing. His eyes are glued to Jiya the same way Abhi is looking at me. The love in his eyes for my Jiya is so pure and deep that it makes my heart swell. Jiya is clutching my hand tightly, her breathing uneven and I can feel how nervous yet excited she is.

Dev↑

Our close friends and family are seated around the mandap, looking genuinely happy for us. But there’s also a flicker of shock on some faces because we didn’t tell anyone about why we were getting married so suddenly. Only the ones who are truly close to us and genuinely care are present today. Their warm smiles and the soft buzz of whispers fill the air.

My baby, Zar is standing proudly beside his father and uncle. He looks so handsome with his glossy fur shining under the lights. He’s wearing the same bow tie I had gifted him.

His bright eyes are sparkling with excitement and his tail is wagging so fast that it’s almost a blur. He’s looking at me and Jiya with a wide, happy smile on his face, his tongue hanging out slightly as he pants with excitement. Seeing him so happy makes my heart feel light.

We finally reach the mandap, which is decorated beautifully with all kinds of fresh flowers roses, marigolds, jasmine. their sweet scent wrapping around me and calming my racing heart.

The mandap is covered with strings of white and red flowers hanging from the top and soft golden lights are woven between them, casting a warm glow over everything. The floor beneath our feet is covered with a red carpet and petals are scattered everywhere.

Abhi steps forward, extending his hand toward me. His long, strong fingers are open, waiting for mine. I smile at him and place my hand in his palm.

His hand wraps around mine securely, his thumb rubbing the back of my hand softly. A shiver runs down my spine at his touch and he pulls me gently into the mandap. My heart races even faster but the warmth of his hand gives me strength.

"How am I looking?" I whisper softly, tilting my head to look at him. He hasn’t said anything about how I look and it’s making me a little nervous.

Abhi’s eyes soften as he looks at me his gaze roaming over my face and down to my lehenga. His lips curl into a soft smile and his hand tightens around mine.

"If I start telling you how you look, I’ll end up crying in front of everyone" he says, his voice low and thick with emotion. "And honestly I don’t think I have the words to describe how breathtaking you look right now"

His words make my heart flutter wildly. My eyes widen slightly as his gaze darkens with raw emotion. The sincerity in his voice makes my throat tighten. His words always have a way of making me feel like the most precious person in the world.

A tear slips from the corner of my eye but before I can lift my hand to wipe it, Abhi’s thumb brushes my cheek softly, wiping it away. His touch is so gentle so full of love.

"Mine" he whispers so softly that only I can hear it.

We sit inside the mandap together. The soft glow of the lights above us and the scent of fresh flowers in the air make everything feel magical. The white and red flowers hanging around the mandap sway lightly with the evening breeze. I sit beside Abhi, my hand resting lightly on my lap. Jiya and Dev sit in front of us, both of them looking nervous yet excited.

Jiya looks at me, her smile bright and steady and I can’t help but smile back. Her eyes are sparkling with happiness and I know mine must be the same.

The sound of bells and soft chanting from the pandit ji fills the air creating a peaceful yet intense atmosphere.

"The Ganesh Puja will begin now" the pandit ji says and we all fold our hands. Abhi sits straight beside me, his broad shoulders relaxed but his face serious.

Jiya and Dev also sit with their hands folded. The pandit ji starts chanting the mantras for the Ganesh Puja, asking for Lord Ganesha's blessings for our marriage. The sound of the mantras mixes with the light ringing of bells, making the moment feel even more sacred.

We follow every instruction carefully, offering flowers, rice and sacred water as the pandit ji guides us through the rituals. The sound of the mantras seems to wrap around us like a protective shield. My eyes keep drifting toward Abhi and every time he catches me looking, he gives me a soft smile that makes my heart race.

"Who will do the kanyadan?" the pandit ji suddenly asks.

My smile fades instantly. My heart drops. This is the part that always makes me feel sad. My and jiya's parents aren't here to give us away. That emptiness claws at my chest making my eyes sting. I lower my gaze, trying to swallow the lump in my throat.

"I will do my sister's kanyadan" Abhi’s deep voice cuts through the silence. My eyes widen and I lift my head to look at him.

His face is calm but the intensity in his eyes makes my heart flutter. He looks at me with so much warmth that I feel my eyes filling with tears. A bright smile stretches across my face as I stare at him, overwhelmed.

"And I will do my sister’s kanyadan" Dev’s voice follows immediately. My head snaps toward him and he’s already looking at me. His dark eyes are steady and his lips curl into a soft smile. The way he says it with so much strength and love makes my chest tighten. A tear slips down my cheek before I can stop it.

I feel a soft touch on my hand and look down. Zar is sitting beside me, his big, warm paw resting gently on my hand. His bright brown eyes look up at me with so much love and comfort that my heart melts.

"My baby" I whisper, stroking his fur. I lean down and kiss his head softly. He lets out a soft huff, his tail wagging slightly. My everything, my baby.

"First, abhiraj will perform Jiya’s kanyadan. Then dev will perform Mira’s kanyadan" the pandit ji announces.

Abhi stands up and pandit ji starts the mantras. Abhi  takes Jiya’s hand and places it into Dev's hand, performing the kanyadan with full respect and love. His hands are steady, his gaze fixed on Jiya. After the mantras are done, abhi steps back and sits down.

Dev stands up next, his tall frame strong and commanding. He takes my hand in his and the pandit ji starts the mantras again. Dev's  hand is warm around mine, his grip firm yet gentle.

His thumb rubs the back of my hand softly as he performs the kanyadan with full faith and devotion. My eyes stay locked on his face the whole time and when he finishes, he sits back down beside jiya.

"Now perform the panigrahana" the pandit ji instructs.

Abhi lifts my hand again, this time both of our hands joined together. The pandit ji starts chanting the mantras and we promise to accept each other  not just as husband and wife but as life partners.

Abhi’s hand tightens around mine as we repeat the sacred vows, promising to support and love each other through every difficulty and happiness.

"Now stand for the pheras" the pandit ji says.

Abhi stands up first and extends his hand toward me. I place my hand in his and he helps me up. We stand facing each other, surrounded by the soft glow of the mandap lights and the sound of the fire crackling gently in the center.

We start the pheras  seven sacred rounds around the fire. With each round we make a new promise.

First phera — a promise to provide for each other.

Second phera — a promise to remain loyal and true to each other.

Third phera — a promise to grow together and support each other’s dreams.

Fourth phera — a promise to remain best friends and confidants forever.

Fifth phera — a promise to raise a strong and happy family together.

Sixth phera — a promise to stand by each other through every difficulty.

Seventh and final phera — a promise to love and cherish each other for all lifetimes.

Abhi’s hand remains firmly wrapped around mine as we complete the last phera. My heart feels full and my eyes are misty with tears. I look at him and he gives me a soft smile.

"Now fill the sindoor in the bride’s partition" the pandit ji instructs.

Abhi turns toward me, his expression warm and focused. He picks up the small silver box of sindoor with steady hands.

Slowly, he raises his hand toward my forehead. His soft  eyes stay fixed on mine as he gently fills my partition with the red sindoor.

Some of the sindoor falls onto my nose. Abhi’s lips twitch into a small smile when he sees it. I smile back feeling my heart flutter. A single tear slips down my cheek.

I glance toward Jiya and Dev. Dev is holding the sindoor but his hand is trembling badly. Jiya smiles softly at him placing her hand over his to steady him. I chuckle lightly at Dev’s nervousness. The love and warmth in this moment are overwhelming.

"Now make the bride wear the mangalsutra" the pandit ji announces in a calm, steady voice.

My heart starts beating fast. My hands feel cold even though the warmth from the sacred fire in front of us is strong.

I look up at Abhi and he’s already reaching for the mangalsutra placed on the silver tray beside the pandit ji. His long fingers pick up the delicate black and gold chain carefully.

Abhi lifts the mangalsutra and looks at me. His eyes soften as he gently pushes my hair to one side, exposing my neck. My breath hitches when his fingers lightly brush my skin.

Slowly carefully, he brings the mangalsutra around my neck. His fingers tremble slightly as he clasps it at the back of my neck. The cold touch of the gold chain against my skin makes me shiver.

As soon as the mangalsutra rests on my collarbone, I feel a wave of warmth spreading through me. Abhi’s hands linger on my neck for a moment before he lowers them.

His eyes remain locked on mine. Then he leans down and presses a soft kiss on my forehead. His lips are warm against my skin and I close my eyes for a brief second, feeling the weight of this moment settling in my heart.

"The marriage is complete" the pandit ji announces with a satisfied tone.

Suddenly the sound of fireworks erupts in the sky. Bright colors explode above us red, gold and silver lights scattering across the dark night sky. The crackling sound of the fireworks is followed by loud cheers and clapping from the guests.

I open my eyes and see everyone smiling and clapping for us. Their happy faces and joyful cheers make my heart swell.

Abhi holds my hand and helps me stand up. The moment I stand, he pulls me into his arms and hugs me tightly.

His strong arms wrap securely around my waist and I feel his heart beating rapidly against mine. I hug him back just as tightly, burying my face in his chest.

I feel his breath against my neck warm and shaky. Then I hear him sniff softly. Is he… crying? I pull back slightly and look up at him.

His eyes are glossy with tears but he’s smiling that soft heart melting smile that always makes my knees weak.

I lift my hand and gently cup his cheek. "Abhi…" I whisper. He shakes his head lightly smiling even wider through his tears. Without thinking, I lean up and press a soft kiss on his cheek.

The moment my lips touch his cheek, loud hooting and cheering explode from the guests. My cheeks burn as I pull back and Abhi chuckles softly, his thumb brushing my hand still resting on his cheek.

I glance toward Jiya and Dev. Dev is holding Jiya’s hand tightly and they are looking at each other without blinking. Dev’s eyes are filled with so much love and admiration and Jiya’s eyes shine with unshed tears.

I walk toward Jiya and shake her arm lightly. She blinks and looks at me, as if waking up from a dream. Her lips stretch into a wide smile before she throws her arms around me.

"Congratulations, bhabhi!" she says excitedly her voice full of happiness.

I laugh and hug her back tightly. "Congratulations, my nanad" I say, teasing her. She pulls back and chuckles her eyes sparkling with joy.

I feel Abhi’s hand on my back as I turn to see an elderly couple walking toward us. The man is wearing a cream kurta with a golden border, and the woman is dressed in a deep red saree with a gold pallu draped over her shoulder. Their faces are warm and kind.

Abhi and Dev’s faces light up when they see them. "They are Varun's parents" Abhi explains his tone soft and respectful. "They are like our parents too"

I and Jiya immediately bend down with Abhi and Dev, touching their feet respectfully. The old couple places their hands gently on our heads, blessing us.

"God bless you both with a happy and peaceful life" uncle says warmly.

"May you both always stay happy and united" aunty adds, her smile soft and motherly.

We straighten up and they smile warmly at us. My heart feels lighter. The emptiness I felt earlier about my parents not being here fades slightly with their comforting presence.

Soon, our close friends and colleagues start coming toward us. They hug us and congratulate us warmly. Laughter and cheerful voices fill the air, mixing with the lingering scent of fresh flowers and burning wood from the sacred fire.

Abhi’s hand remains wrapped securely around mine the whole time. He keeps me close to his side as we greet everyone. His protective presence makes me feel calm and safe.

Finally it’s over. We are married. Me and Abhi — finally one. My heart feels full and complete in a way I can’t even describe.

I'm really sorry, I'll upload the second chapter a bit late because I'm not satisfied with the scene so I'm writing it again. I'll post it a little late please forgive me for that❤️.

Also I don't know much about wedding rituals so please forgive me if I've made any mistakes.