Kshitij got Kritika [Completed✓]

CHAPTER ~ 15

POV :~ KRITIKA

My room was transformed into a cozy, festive space, with fairy lights strung around and a small table in the center loaded with snacks and drinks. It was exactly how I wanted it—simple and intimate, surrounded by my closest friends. Shreya had been a wonderful addition to our little group, seamlessly fitting in with Sayesha and Priti.

"Okay, so I know you said you wanted it simple," Sayesha began with a mischievous grin, "but we couldn't resist adding a little bit of our own flair."

Priti nodded enthusiastically, holding up a small, elaborately decorated cake. "We got you a cake! And not just any cake... wait till you see it."

I raised an eyebrow, half-amused and half-dreading what they had come up with. They set the cake down and pulled off the cover with a flourish. I burst out laughing.

The cake was a riot of color and humor, a perfect representation of Sayesha and Priti's playful personalities. It was covered in bright red fondant, with "LAST DAY OF KRI'S FREEDOM" written boldly across the top in white icing. Scattered around the cake were fondant decorations of bikinis in blue and pink, adding a whimsical vibe.

But the centerpiece of the cake was the figure lying sprawled on top. It was a fondant replica of a me in a white dress, her dark hair splayed out messily. She clutched a tiny bottle labeled "WINE" in one hand, and her expression was one of exaggerated exhaustion and amusement.

The whole scene looked like a comedic take.

"Oh my god, you guys!" I said, laughing so hard I almost teared up. "This is ridiculous!"

"Ridiculously awesome!" Sayesha corrected, grinning.

Shreya shook her head, laughing along,

"You two are something else."

"Well, we couldn't just stop there," Priti added, pulling out a bottle of wine. "We need some proper toasts for the bride-to-be!"

I felt a warm rush of gratitude for my friends. They always knew how to make any occasion special, despite of me asking it to let it be simple. We poured the wine into our glasses, and Sayesha raised hers high.

"To Kritika," she announced, "the most beautiful bride-to-be, and to a future filled with love, laughter, sxx, kids and lots of cake like this!"

We all laughed and clinked our glasses together.

We sipped our wine, and the conversation flowed easily, filled with memories, jokes, and a few heartfelt moments.

While I was busy sipping my wine and my friends were busy talking, my thoughts drifted to the past three days, filled with vibrant celebrations and cherished moments that brought me closer to my new family.

The Haldi ceremony was the first of the major pre-wedding rituals. Held in the courtyard of hotel, the atmosphere was lively and filled with joy.

Family members smeared turmeric paste on my face, arms, and feet, blessing me for my future. The bright yellow color was everywhere, staining clothes and hands, but it was all in good fun.

Kshitij’s mother had been particularly gentle, her touch soothing as she applied the Haldi to my cheeks.

“You look beautiful, beta, just perfect for my Kshitij! ” she had said, her eyes warm with affection. It was a moment of connection that made me feel truly welcomed into their family.

Kshitij, on the other hand, had been covered in Haldi by his cousins, who took the opportunity to playfully tease him.

I had thought that maybe he'll show tantrums while rituals, but he was so calm throughout, maybe that was also the reason I was at peace.