Unchained Melody

Chapter 4 ~ Winds of the past

Flashback

Arohi stood amid the bustling mehendi ceremony, taking in the vibrant chaos surrounding her. Tomorrow marked the day she would enter a new chapter of her life—her wedding day. The realization echoed in her mind, bringing excitement and nervousness that required deep breaths to calm.

Two months had passed since Armaan's heartfelt proposal, and now, the eve of their marriage had arrived. Arohi couldn't help but marvel at the scene unfolding around her. While Padma coordinated with the caterers, Naina, Yuvraj, Benji, and Samrat were engrossed in decorating one section of the hall and with fiery determination, Anjali reprimanded the decorators for a slight misalignment of flowers in a corner. Amidst the chaos, her Maasi darted around, attempting to juggle multiple tasks, a display of endearing chaos.

Amusement sparked as Padma intercepted Arohi, compelling her to sit and handing over a glass of lime water. Satisfaction surged through her—it seemed everything was finally falling into place. The 'happily ever after' she had always envisioned was within grasp, with the prince charming who had effortlessly captured her heart.

Her gaze wandered to a solitary figure in a corner—Avantika.

Arohi's smile faltered, noticing a hint of melancholy on her sister's face. Doubts crept into her consciousness, a nagging uncertainty.

Armaan loved her truly, didn't he? He had proposed willingly, genuinely desiring to marry her. Surely, he did.

Yet, whenever she glimpsed Avantika, a twinge of anxiety tightened within her.

Was her sister not genuinely happy for her, or did she harbour reservations about this marriage union?

Abruptly, Avantika turned, catching Arohi's gaze. They exchanged smiles, but a lingering doubt persisted.

Maybe she was overthinking. Perhaps it was just pre-wedding jitters, a figment of her imagination.

Yet, even as she convinced herself, Arohi couldn't ignore that Avantika's smile didn't quite reach her eyes.

***

Arohi stared at the intricate mehendi patterns adorning her hands, the vibrant colours making the moment feel surreal. It was as if she were an observer, watching her own life unfold from a distance.

Happiness engulfed her, almost making it difficult to breathe. This was a dream she didn't want to wake up from. Tomorrow, her life would take a new turn—she would be someone's wife, not just anyone's, but the man she loved.

Abruptly, a flash of bright light invaded her vision, and she instinctively closed her eyes. When she opened them again, Sid stood before her with a wide grin on his handsome face.

"No, Sid! Not again... please!"

"Nonsense," he replied. "This is your wedding, and you should capture every moment."

Siddharth, a highly qualified doctor, had transformed into the temporary resident photographer since the wedding festivities began. Arohi was convinced they wouldn't need any other professional photographers.

He had captured every second of her wedding functions into his camera.

He clicked pictures relentlessly, capturing every second of her wedding functions from every possible angle. Arohi shook her head fondly, marvelling at his dedication.

Finally satisfied, Sid sat before her and examined the mehendi on her hands. He was the only male allowed in this 'ladies-only' function, a privilege he earned by promising every lady at least five photographs each.