Kismet Ki Kahani

**Chapter 16: Ayesha Ki Challenge**

**Chapter 16: Ayesha Ki Challenge**

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The warmth of Raj’s family acceptance was still fresh, but Ayesha knew she had to continuously prove herself to be truly accepted. The upcoming family gathering for Diwali would be her next big challenge. Mrs. Kapoor had invited the extended family and it was Ayesha’s first chance to make a lasting impression.

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A week before Diwali, Ayesha and Raj were sitting in a cafe, discussing the preparations. Ayesha looked concerned, "Raj, Diwali celebrations in your family are such a big deal. I want everything to be perfect. Tumhe pata hai na, Maa ne mujhe poore decorations ki responsibility di hai."

Raj smiled, trying to reassure her. "Ayesha, tum sab kuch handle kar logi. Main hoon na tumhare saath."

Ayesha nodded, but deep down, she knew this was a test from Mrs. Kapoor. She had to make sure every detail was impeccable.

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The day before Diwali, Ayesha arrived at Raj’s house early in the morning. She had a detailed plan, and with the help of a few hired decorators, she began transforming the house. There were lights to be hung, rangolis to be made, and flowers to be arranged.

Mrs. Kapoor watched her from a distance, scrutinizing every move. She approached Ayesha in the living room. "Ayesha, yeh lights ka color thoda bright lag raha hai. Tumhe nahi lagta ki golden better hoga?"

Ayesha paused, took a deep breath, and replied, "Maa, main bhi yahi soch rahi thi. Golden lights zyada elegant lagenge."

Mrs. Kapoor nodded approvingly. "Theek hai, phir golden lights lagwa do."

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By evening, the house was bathed in the warm glow of golden lights. The rangoli at the entrance was a beautiful blend of colors and patterns, and the aroma of fresh flowers filled the air. Raj’s family members started arriving, and everyone was impressed with the decorations.

Raj, seeing the beautiful setup, whispered to Ayesha, "Tumne toh kamaal kar diya. Maa bohot impressed hai."

Just then, Mrs. Kapoor walked up to Ayesha. "Ayesha, tumne sab kuch bohot accha kiya hai. Main tumhe ek aur responsibility dena chahti hoon. Kal puja mein tumhe sabke samne aarti karni hogi."

Ayesha’s heart skipped a beat. Leading the aarti was a big deal in Raj’s family, and she knew this was another test. She nodded, "Ji Maa, main ready ho jaungi."

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The next day, Diwali festivities were in full swing. The house was buzzing with excitement, children running around, elders chatting, and the sound of laughter everywhere. Ayesha, dressed in a traditional saree, was nervous but determined.

As the evening puja began, Ayesha took her place at the altar. She led the aarti with confidence, her voice steady as she chanted the prayers. Raj stood by her side, giving her strength. The family watched in awe, impressed by her devotion and grace.

After the aarti, Mrs. Kapoor approached Ayesha with a smile. "Ayesha, tumne aaj sabko prabhavit kiya hai. Mujhe khushi hai ki Raj ne tumhe chuna."

Ayesha felt a sense of relief and accomplishment. "Thank you, Maa. Aapka support mere liye bohot important hai."

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The celebrations continued with a grand dinner. Ayesha had planned a special surprise for Raj's family. She had prepared a dish that was a favorite of Raj's grandmother, who had passed away years ago. As the dish was served, Mr. Kapoor took a bite and his eyes filled with tears.

"Ayesha, yeh dish meri maa banati thi. Tumne mujhe unki yaad dila di," he said, his voice choked with emotion.

Ayesha smiled, "Uncle, mujhe Raj ne bataya tha. Maine socha ki yeh aap sabke liye surprise hoga."

The evening was a resounding success. Ayesha had not only impressed Raj’s immediate family but also the extended relatives. The bond she shared with Raj grew stronger as they navigated the challenges together.

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Later that night, Raj and Ayesha sat on the terrace, watching the fireworks light up the sky. Raj looked at Ayesha, his eyes filled with love. "Ayesha, tumne aaj sabka dil jeet liya. Tumhe pata hai, Maa ne aaj mujhse kaha ki tum hamare parivaar ki shaan ho."

Ayesha leaned into Raj, feeling the warmth of his embrace. "Raj, yeh sab tumhare bina possible nahi tha. Tumhara pyaar hi meri strength hai."

Raj kissed her forehead gently. "Ayesha, humesha saath rahenge. Yeh promise hai."

As they sat there, wrapped in each other’s warmth, they knew that their love had the power to overcome any challenge. The road ahead might still have its ups and downs, but together, they were unstoppable.