Threads of Fate

Part 2: Chapter 7

Arnav’s gaze softened, and he leaned in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead. “I love you too, Khushi. And I promise you, I’ll always be by your side, no matter what.”

Khushi closed her eyes, savoring the moment. But even as she basked in the warmth of his love, a part of her couldn’t shake the lingering fear that something was about to go wrong. She knew she couldn’t let that fear overshadow the joy of their wedding, but it was there, lurking in the back of her mind.

As they sat there, wrapped in each other’s arms, Khushi decided that she wouldn’t let Kabir or anyone else ruin their happiness. She had Arnav, and together, they could face anything. Whatever challenges lay ahead, they would overcome them as long as they were together.

The next morning, the day of the mehendi ceremony dawned bright and clear. The Raizada mansion was a hive of activity as guests began to arrive, the sound of music and laughter filling the air. The garden had been transformed into a colorful wonderland, with vibrant cushions, flowing drapes, and intricate decorations creating a festive atmosphere.

Khushi was in her room, getting ready for the ceremony, when Anjali and Siya walked in, their faces alight with excitement.

“Khushi, you look stunning!” Anjali exclaimed as she took in Khushi’s outfit—a beautiful green and gold lehenga that shimmered in the sunlight.

“Arnav won’t be able to take his eyes off you,” Siya added with a grin, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Khushi blushed, but she couldn’t help the smile that spread across her face. “You two are too much.”

Anjali walked over to her and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. “Today is all about you, Khushi. Enjoy every moment of it.”

Khushi nodded, feeling a rush of affection for her soon-to-be sisters-in-law. “I will. Thank you.”

As they helped Khushi with the final touches of her outfit, the excitement in the room was palpable. The mehendi ceremony was one of the most cherished traditions in a Hindu wedding, and Khushi couldn’t wait to see the intricate designs that would adorn her hands.

Downstairs, the guests were already gathered in the garden, enjoying the festivities. The air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers and the sound of traditional music as the mehendi artist prepared her tools.

Khushi made her way down to the garden, her heart pounding with anticipation. As she stepped out into the sunlight, the guests turned to look at her, their faces lighting up with admiration. She felt a wave of warmth and happiness wash over her as she spotted Arnav across the garden, his eyes locked on her.

For a moment, it felt like time had stopped. Khushi’s heart swelled with love as she took in the sight of Arnav standing there, his gaze filled with adoration. She couldn’t believe that this was her life, that she was about to marry the man who had become her everything.

Arnav made his way over to her, his smile widening as he reached her side. “You look beautiful,” he whispered, his voice filled with emotion.

Khushi smiled, feeling her cheeks flush with happiness. “So do you.”

They stood there for a moment, lost in each other’s eyes, before the sound of Nandini’s voice brought them back to reality.

“Khushi, it’s time for your mehendi,” Nandini called out, her voice filled with excitement.

Khushi nodded, allowing herself to be led to the center of the garden, where a beautiful seating arrangement had been prepared for her. She sat down, feeling the eyes of the guests on her as the mehendi artist began her work.

As the intricate designs began to take shape on her hands, Khushi couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty of it all. The patterns were delicate and intricate, each stroke of the artist’s hand adding to the masterpiece that would adorn her hands for her wedding day.

The guests mingled around her, their laughter and conversation filling the air. Khushi glanced up to see Arnav standing nearby, his eyes never leaving her. There was something in his gaze, a mixture of love, pride, and protectiveness that made her heart skip a beat.

As the mehendi ceremony continued, Khushi allowed herself to relax, the joy of the moment washing over her. She knew that the days ahead would be filled with challenges, but in that moment, surrounded by her loved ones and the man she loved, she felt ready to face whatever came her way.

But even as she sat there, the shadows of doubt lingered in the back of her mind. Kabir was still out there, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that he was watching, waiting for the right moment to strike.

As the evening wore on and the festivities continued, Khushi made a silent promise to herself. She wouldn’t let fear control her. She would protect her happiness, her love, and her future with Arnav at all costs.

The calm before the storm had settled over them, but Khushi knew that the true test of their love was just beginning.

---