𝐒𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐝𝐨 𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬.

ֶָ֢⭑𔘓𓍼✶

𝐃𝐇𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐈 𐙚

I stormed out of my room, the intricate embroidery on my bridal lehenga rustling with every step. The mansion was transformed into a fairytale, with crystal chandeliers and fresh flowers adorning every corner as my wedding is in the next two hours which is not going to happen.

"Is sab ka kya fayda jab dulha hi nahi aaye?" I smirked.

(What's the use of all these things when the groom is not going to show up)

My gaze swept across the lavish decor, the empty throne-like chair where Advait the rich known businessman should have been sitting, waiting for me.

A sly smile spread across my lips as I dialed a number on my phone.

"Kaam hogya?" I asked, my voice firm.

(Is the work done?)

"Yes, mam, he's with us now," the man replied.

"Okay, but make sure you don't hurt him. And twenty lakhs will be in your account." I cut the call

I kidnapped Advait.

I couldn't help but think about how he'd ignored my warnings to back off. Sorry, Advait Patel, but you left me no choice.

As I stepped back into my room, my eyes met my reflection. My dad was forcing me to marry Advait Patel CEO of Patel Inc.

My beloved father Abhishek Oberoi, a successful businessman wants his daughter to marry in a reputed and rich family.

I'm not saying that he doesn't care or love me he does I know he does. But he isn't understanding that I don't want to marry him or anyone.

And Advait he's an idiot! I told him that I was not interested but he still did not listen.

If he would have rejected me, he would be happy and I would be happy too.

I have got the Advait kidnapped but still nothing seems right to me. I sat on my bed and grabbed my teddy 'Tofu'

It holds a special place in my heart; it was the last gift mom gave me. Every time I hug it, I feel a rush of warmth and love.

"Tofu is more than just a toy."

"It's a piece of my mom that I can hold onto."

I don't remember why I named him tofu but I feel like it's cute.

I remembered sitting beside Mama, watching her sketch of beautiful flowers and landscapes. She'd hand me a pencil and paper, saying, "Dhvani, draw what you see."

I was only 5 years old then, but Mama's patience and encouragement sparked something within me. I fell in love with sketching.

After Mama passed away when I was 6, my passion for sketching only grew stronger. It became my escape, my way of holding onto memories of her.

As I grew older, my interest shifted from traditional sketching to jewelry design sketches. I'd spend hours poring over Mama's old sketchbooks, studying her designs and techniques.

My love for jewelry sketching blossomed, and I knew I wanted to make a career out of it. After completing my course, I took the leap and opened my own small studio.

It wasn't easy, of course. There were countless sleepless nights, endless cups of coffee, and moments of self-doubt. But I persevered, driven by my vision of creating unique, exquisite pieces that would make women feel confident and beautiful.

Anvita, my best friend and confidante, had been instrumental in my success. She had joined me as my senior designer, bringing her own flair and creativity to the table. Together, we worked tirelessly to build our brand.

I remembered our first big break - a local fashion show where our designs stunned the audience. The orders poured in, and our studio took off.I smile, thinking about my first big client, then the next, and the growth that followed. Elegant Piece, my jewellery design company, is my triumph.

"I wish mom could see what I create now."

── .✦

𝐃𝐀𝐊𝐒𝐇 𐙚

I strode into my office, shedding my meeting-weary expression as I closed the door behind me. Finally, some solitude. My cabin's familiar scent and the soft hum of the air conditioner enveloped me, a comforting respite from the chaos outside.

Just as I settled into my chair, my phone buzzed. Tara's name flashed on the screen.

I picked up, "Bolo, Tara."

(Speak, Tara)

"Bhai, you have to attend a wedding today with mom and dad," she chimed in, her voice laced with amusement.

My eyes widened in alarm. Functions were my kryptonite. I'd rather spend hours in a boardroom than make small talk with distant relatives.

"Are nahi, mom ko jhooth bol do ki meri meeting hai thike?" I suggested, hoping to wriggle out of it.

(Tell mom that I have a meeting okay?)

But my words were met with an unsettling silence.

"Tara, hello?" I asked, wondering if the call dropped.

Then, her chuckle pierced the line. "Bhai, aap toh gaye!"

(Brother, you're in trouble!)

My heart sank as I understood. The speaker was on. Mom had heard me.

A stern voice boomed from the other end, "Beta, tu aaj nahi aaya toh ghar kabhi mat aana. Apni ma se jhooth bolta hai, nalayak!"

(Child, if you don't come today, never come home again. You're lying to your mother, you worth less one!)

My stomach dropped. I'd inadvertently awakened the mom-quake.

"No, no, mom, I was just joking," I stuttered, attempting to salvage the situation.

"Kiski shaadi hai?" I hastily asked, hoping to divert her attention.

(Whose wedding?)

"Abhishek Oberoi's daughter's  wedding," mom replied, her tone still laced with displeasure.

I hummed, recognizing the name. Abhishek Oberoi was a business associate, a friend of dad's.

I scribbled the reminder on my calendar, mentally rearranging my schedule. Attendance at this wedding had become non-negotiable

"Okay, mom. I'll be there," I promised, wincing at the thought of the impending social ordeal.

As I hung up, I couldn't shake the feeling that I'd just dodged a bullet – or rather, a mom-bullet.

Anyways, it's fine to attend a wedding until it's not mine.

── .✦

𝐃𝐇𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐈 𐙚

Everything would be fine. Fine. Fine. I'm just praying that everything should be fine.

"Dhvani! What if your dad finds out? He will doubt that you did it because you didn't want to marry" Anvita said furrowing her eyebrows.

"Areh main itni achi acting karungi na kisiko kuch shak hi nahi hoga!" I said shooting a wink at her.

(I will act so well that no one will have any doubt)

"Jyada drama mat kar dena bass" She said.

(Don't do too much drama)

── .✦

I stood in the mandap, my heart racing with excitement, but not the kind you'd expect on your wedding day.

Today was the day I'd planned my great escape.

As I glanced around, I spotted my father's anxious face, his eyes scanning the area, searching for any sign of advait and his family.

The pandit cleared his throat, "Where is the groom?"

I'm so happy I can't even tell! This wedding will be cancelled now. My father's expression turned beet red with rage. Suddenly, a commotion erupted outside.

Whispered conversations spread like wildfire: "Advait has run away!'

Ab hoga drama shuru!'

(the drama will begin now)

"Ab toh mauja hi mauja"

Gasps filled the air but Mere dil mein toh guitar bajne laga.

(The guitar started playing in my heart)

My eyes met those of my best friend Anvita, who stood at the back, trying to stifle a grin. I winked, and she quickly looked away not wanting to laugh right now.

The news spread, and faces turned toward me, filled with pity.

"Oh, Dhvani, beta..."

"My poor child..."

"How could he do this to you?"

"She must be heartbroken"

Okay it's show time now!

I took a deep breath, putting on my best "heartbroken" face. Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes - fake, of course.

"How could he leave me like this?" I sobbed, my voice trembling.

"How can he do this to me?"

I didn't do it too much right?

Nahi nahi sahi hai continue please my mind mocked.

(No no it's good)

My father rushed to my side, his arms enveloping me in a warm hug.

"Don't worry, beta. We'll find you a better groom."

Areh ye kya khelona hai? Ek gaya toh dusra la denge!

(what is it a toy? If one is lost we will bring another one)

And better groom? Ha! I'd rather die than marry someone my father chose.

As the guests began to murmur, I continued my charade, dabbing at my dry eyes with a tissue.

Anvita also rushed to my side holding me close and patting my back.

── .✦

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑 𐙚

The opulent wedding hall bustled with activity, but amidst the joyous chaos, a poignant scene unfolded. Dhvani, the bride, sat distraught,  tears streaming down her face.

Her father, Abhishek Oberoi, attempted to console her, his expression etched with concern.

Unaware of the truth, Daksh's parents, Shikhar and Sara, observed the heart-wrenching scene from a distance.

"She seems so sweet," Sara whispered, her eyes filled with empathy. "How can someone do this to her?"

Shikhar's gaze lingered on Dhvani, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Sara, she's the perfect match for our Daksh."

Sara's eyes widened in surprise, and she turned to Shikhar, her voice barely above a whisper. "What are you saying!"

Shikhar's tone remained calm and assured. "Just look at her – she's crying so much; she doesn't deserve this. Anyways, we were looking for the right girl for our Daksh, right? I think she's the one."

Sara's gaze darted between Dhvani and Shikhar, her mind racing. "But will Daksh listen?" she asked, skepticism lacing her voice.

Shikhar's confidence was unwavering. "We'll make him. She's my friend's daughter; I know him – he's a good person. His daughter must be good too."

Sara pondered, then nodded, her eyes locked on Dhvani's devastated face.

"We should talk to Abhishek," Shikhar suggested, his eyes scanning the room for Daksh, who was still en route.

As they watched, Dhvani's sobs intensified, her father's words of comfort offering little solace.

Meanwhile, Sara's thoughts whirled with the possibility of uniting their son with this distraught yet captivating young woman.

Shikhar cleared his throat, "Abhishek, may we have a word with you in private?"

Abhishek nodded, following them to a secluded corner of the mandap.

Sara's voice was laced with empathy, "We can't help but notice your distress. This situation is unfortunate, but perhaps...?"

Shikhar completed her sentence, "Perhaps this unexpected turn of events presents an opportunity."

Abhishek's curiosity was piqued.

"What do you propose?" he asked.

Shikhar's eyes locked onto abhishek's.

"Our son, Daksh, will be here. Why not consider uniting him with Dhvani?"

Abhishek's expression transformed from despair to surprise.

"But...without their consent?" he hesitated.

Sara smiled.

"Sometimes, destiny requires a gentle nudge. Trust us, our son will make Dhvani happy."

Abhishek pondered, weighing the benefits. In that moment, a plan was set in motion.

"Daksh and Dhvani will marry today" Shikhar declared.

Abhishek nodded, a newfound determination in his eyes. Abhishek approached Dhvani, his expression transformed.

"Dhvani, beta," he said softly, "I have something important to discuss with you."

Dhvani's fake tears halted, replaced by wariness.

"What is it, Papa?" she asked.

He took a deep breath. "The Kashyaps have proposed an alliance between our families. Daksh, their son, is willing to marry you today."

Dhvani's eyes widened in horror.

"What? No, Papa! I won't-"

Abhishek's firm tone silenced her.

"It's arranged, beta. Daksh is a good man. He'll provide for you and make you happy."

Dhvani's face burned with defiance, a tear streamed down her face but this time it wasn't fake. She had made such a good plan but everything got ruined.

Dhvani's world crumbled "Who's Laksh now?"

"Areh Laksh nahi Daksh" Anvita corrected.

(It's not laksh it's Daksh)

"Tujhe naam ki padi hai? Yaha meri vaat lag jayegi Anvita!" Dhvani said whining.

(Here my life is being ruined and you're worried about his name?)

Dhvani's escape plan had backfired spectacularly. She was now face-to-face with her unexpected destiny.

── .✦

𝐒𝐨 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫? 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈'𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭, 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠.

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞. 𝐃𝐨 𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 <𝟑