The Wedding Countdown

With Arun's name cleared and the issue with Varun resolved, the couple finally felt a sense of calm as their wedding day approached. The countdown was now in hours, not days, and excitement filled the air.

Ria's family home was buzzing with activity. Relatives from near and far had arrived, the house alive with laughter, music, and last-minute preparations. The wedding planner, looking frazzled but efficient, darted between tasks, ensuring everything was in place.

In the midst of it all, Ria found herself sitting quietly in her childhood room, flipping through an old photo album. The images of her younger self brought a smile to her face—a reminder of how far she'd come.

"Taking a trip down memory lane?" a familiar voice said from the doorway.

Ria turned to see her father, his eyes twinkling with warmth.

"Just thinking about everything," Ria admitted. "It feels surreal that tomorrow I'll be married."

Her father walked in and sat beside her. "You're ready, Ria. I've watched you grow into this strong, independent woman. Arun is a lucky man."

"And I'm lucky to have him," Ria said, her voice soft.

Her father placed a hand on hers. "Marriage is about partnership. You and Arun will face challenges, but if you trust and support each other, you'll come out stronger every time."

Ria nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude for her family's unwavering support.

Meanwhile, Arun was at his apartment with his closest friends. The mood was celebratory, though a touch of nervousness lingered in the air.

"Are you ready to give up your freedom?" Sameer teased, handing Arun a glass of sparkling water.

Arun chuckled. "Freedom? I think I gained a partner in crime. Ria and I are a team, and honestly, I couldn't have done half the things I've accomplished without her."

"Wow," another friend joked. "Look at you, all grown up and wise!"

Arun laughed, but his mind drifted to Ria. He couldn't wait to see her walking down the aisle, to start their new chapter together.

That evening, as tradition dictated, Ria and Arun were not supposed to see each other. But Arun, ever the rule-breaker, couldn't resist.

At midnight, Ria received a text:

"Come to the terrace. I have something for you."

Ria slipped out quietly, her heart racing. When she reached the terrace, Arun was waiting, holding a small wrapped box.

"You're not supposed to be here," Ria whispered, though her smile betrayed her excitement.

"I know," Arun said with a grin. "But I couldn't wait until tomorrow to give you this."

He handed her the box. Inside was a delicate silver bracelet with a tiny charm shaped like a compass.

"So you never lose your way," Arun said. "And even if you do, we'll always find each other."

Ria's eyes filled with tears. "It's beautiful. Thank you, Arun."

They stood there under the stars, stealing a moment just for themselves before the chaos of the wedding day.

The morning of the wedding arrived with a flurry of activity. Ria's house was transformed into a haven of flowers, lights, and traditional decor. She felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as her bridal makeup artist worked on her, while her friends and cousins buzzed around, snapping photos and sharing laughter.

In the groom's quarters, Arun was equally nervous. He paced back and forth, double-checking every detail of his outfit and muttering self-pep talks under his breath.

"Relax," Sameer said, clapping him on the back. "You've got this."

As the ceremony began, Arun stood at the altar, his heart pounding as he waited for Ria. When she finally appeared, adorned in a stunning red and gold lehenga, it felt as if time had slowed. She was radiant, her smile lighting up the entire venue.

Their eyes met, and the nervous energy dissipated, replaced by a shared sense of joy and certainty.

The ceremony was a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Vows were exchanged, promises made, and blessings received. As the priest declared them husband and wife, the crowd erupted in cheers.

Arun leaned closer to Ria and whispered, "Ready for our next adventure?"

She smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Always."

As the night unfolded with celebrations, laughter, and dancing, Ria and Arun realized that their journey had just begun. They had faced challenges, navigated uncertainties, and come out stronger together.

And now, their story was only getting started.