It was around 10:30 P.M. when I reached home. The house was quiet—everyone had already had dinner and gone to bed. I quietly finished my own dinner and retreated to my room, letting the calm of the night wash over me.

(Next Morning)

It was Sunday, and the comfort of a late wake-up greeted me. No one disturbed me; they all knew I had come home late last night. But eventually, the aroma of breakfast called me to the dining room, and I joined everyone. Today, I had chosen a simple yet neat outfit—a white V-neck shirt paired with black pants.

Ritu's eyes widened in surprise as she looked at me. "Bhai, how come you woke up so early??"

I smirked, a playful glint in my eyes. "I woke up early to give everyone else a head start."

Ritu made a mock face, scrunching her nose, and laughter erupted around the table. We all settled into the familiar rhythm of breakfast, enjoying the warmth of family banter.

Midway through the meal, Chachu nudged Dad, reminding him about the Goenkas' son's engagement ceremony.

Goenkas were long-time business friends of Dad and Chachu. Today, Mr. Goenka's son, Abhi, was getting engaged. Most importantly, Abhi and I had been school friends—memories of childhood laughter and mischief danced in my mind.

"So everyone get ready by 6 P.M. We'll go to attend the party," Dad announced, and all of us nodded in agreement.

Ritu, ever dramatic, almost dropped her spoon. "What?? You are informing us this now, Tau ji!! How many things need to be done, you know??"

Chachi maa lightly tapped Ritu on the head. "What are you saying?? Are you the bride or what??"

Ritu pouted, her eyes wide like a puppy. "So what maa?? If I'm not the bride, then can't I get ready properly??"

Chachi maa's eyes narrowed slightly. "See, get ready with whatever you have at home. Understood!!"

I jumped in, trying to pacify the little storm. "It's okay, Chachi maa, she's still young!! You want to go shopping and to the parlor, right sis?? I'll take you. Don't worry!!"

Chachi maa shook her head, a mock sternness on her face. "Shivu, you are spoiling her by doing such things!!"

I just smiled, shrugging playfully. "Big brothers are made for spoiling their younger ones, Chachi maa!!"

Her expression softened, and I could see the corners of her lips twitch in amusement. Ritu's face lit up with a wide grin, her excitement contagious.

Breakfast concluded with the usual chatter and laughter, and soon, Ritu and I left for a little adventure of shopping—a small slice of joy before the evening's ceremony awaited.

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Today, all four of us were sitting together for breakfast when Papa turned to Mummy.

"Today Goenka sir's son is getting engaged. Sir has invited all of us to the party this evening. So please get this girl ready properly. If someone sees her, she should look presentable."

My heart sank as those words hit me like a cold wave.

I quietly finished my food, every bite feeling heavier than the last, and slipped back to my room. I didn't even want to attend the party, but Mummy's firm orders left me with no choice.

(In the evening)

It was around 6 P.M. I stood in front of the mirror, wearing a lavender-colored anarkali suit, my hair half-open, cascading gently over my shoulders. My makeup was subtle, but the bold maroon lipstick added a touch of confidence I hadn't felt in a while.

As I entered the hall, my brother's jaw dropped. "How can you look so beautiful??" he exclaimed, disbelief written all over his face.

I don't usually like getting ready, I thought, but today... after their taunts and hurtful words, I decided to let them see me shine. It was my silent reply, wrapped in lavender and maroon, to show them that I was more than their judgments.

"Papa, I think we should leave for the venue now. We'll get caught in traffic otherwise, and we might be late," I said with a soft smile.

Papa nodded. "Let's leave now. It's already six; we need to reach there by 8 P.M."

The drive was quiet, filled with anticipation and my own swirling thoughts. By 7:40 P.M., we reached the venue. As soon as we stepped out, Papa engaged with Goenka uncle, and Mummy with Aunty. Kunal had already joined some of his friends, leaving me momentarily observing the grandeur around me.

Even though I didn't want to be here, I realized, maybe tonight could be different... maybe people will see me for who I am, not just what they expect me to be.

(In the evening)

The hall was bustling with energy as I entered. Tonight, I had chosen a classic combination-a black kurta paired with white pants. Instantly, everyone froze in their tracks, taking in the sight of me.

Maa approached, her eyes soft with affection. Taking a bit of kajal on her finger, she gently applied it behind my left ear.

"Mere bete ko kisi ki nazar na lage." (May no evil eye fall on my son.)

A quiet warmth spread in my chest at her gesture.

We all set out to leave. I sat behind the wheel, ready to drive, when Dad leaned over and said, "See beta, at the party... if you like someone, tell us, okay!!"

I froze, gripping the steering wheel a little tighter. "Are you taking me to the party for this, Dad??"

"No, but many a times these parties give soulmates. Even I met your mom at a wedding party. And moreover, Abhi was your school friend," Dad said, smiling.

Of course... it's always about finding someone, isn't it? I thought, rolling my eyes but smiling nonetheless.

"Yeah, me, Nikhil, and Abhi are very close friends. And yes, if I find anyone, I'll tell you," I replied, returning his smile.

(At the party)

We reached the venue around 8 P.M. The Goenkas were there to welcome us personally. Nikhil had accompanied us, as all three of us-me, Nikhil, and Abhi-were school friends. Sharma ji, the Secretary of Goenka Company, was also there to greet the guests.

Inside, the hall shimmered with lights and laughter. Around 8:20, the host announced the arrival of the couple. All eyes turned toward them as they exchanged rings, smiles, and greetings, pausing for photographs with friends and family.

After exchanging pleasantries with a few friends, Nikhil and I grabbed some cold drinks and settled at a corner. My attention, however, was caught by a girl across the hall. She was on a phone call, unaware of my gaze.

Noticing me staring, Nikhil cleared his throat with his trademark smirk. "So... I guess you don't need my company anymore, right??!!"

I snapped out of my thoughts, slightly embarrassed. "What rubbish are you talking about?"

"Hmm yes... anyways, thank you!!" Nikhil said, the smirk still playing on his lips.

I blinked, confused. "Thank you?? What for??"

"For... finding my Bhabhi!! What else?" His smirk deepened, teasing me mercilessly.

"It's nothing like that, you idiot!!" I said, narrowing my eyes at him.

"Let me inform this to Rajesh uncle and Sucheta aunty!!" he said in a playful tone.

I raised my hands in surrender. "See, okay!! I accept it!! But first, let me get her consent... I'll tell them later."

Nikhil's eyes lit up, and he shouted in excitement, "Are you serious!!"

Yes... I guess I am, I confirmed softly. "Hmm... yes, I guess!!"

He pulled me into a quick hug. "Okay! Now I'll wait for you to propose to her..."

I nodded, a quiet determination settling in my chest, and we moved toward the food. Even as I ate, my eyes kept drifting, searching for her across the hall.

Why does it feel like something important is about to begin... right now?

(The above aesthetics are just the reference for their outfit for the party. Just for imagination.)

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Author's Note

And just like that, two paths crossed in the midst of laughter, lights, and familiar faces - one unaware of the other, yet destiny quietly nudging them closer. ✨

Tell me, my dewdrops - do you believe in moments that change everything before we even realize it? Could a glance, a smile, or a subtle spark really be the beginning of something unforgettable? 💭

If your heart skipped even a little at this chapter, leave a vote and drop your thoughts in the comments. Your words make this story live, breathe, and glow - and they mean the world to me. 💌

With all my love,
- Your Author 🌼
Lavenderwrites