FATE AND DESIRE

Chapter 8

Do let me know if you guys like this way of writing or should I stick to writing like before.

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Zara's POV

As the golden hues of the evening sun began to fade, the room was abuzz with excitement. The lingering scent of turmeric from the Haldi ceremony still clung to the air, a reminder of the vibrant tradition we had just participated in. My sister, Elsa, and my best friend, Mia, were bustling around, helping me prepare for the evening's main event – my wedding.

Standing before the mirror, I marveled at my reflection. The deep red lehenga adorned with intricate gold embroidery transformed me into a vision of regality. The blouse shimmered with delicate patterns, each stitch a testament to the craftsmanship. The dupatta, draped gracefully over my head, completed the ensemble, making me feel like royalty.

Elsa's voice broke through my thoughts, her eyes glistening with tears. "You look like a princess, Zara."

Mia, adjusting my heavy gold necklace, added with a mischievous smile, "More like a queen, ready to rule with Vittorio by your side. He's going to be blown away when he sees you."

Their words warmed my heart, and I turned to them, gratitude evident in my eyes. "Thank you, both of you. For being here and for everything you've done."

Elsa pulled me into a tight hug, her voice thick with emotion. "We wouldn't miss it for the world. You're our rock, Zara."

Mia squeezed my hand gently. "And remember, we're always here for you. No matter what."

As I smiled at them, trying to hold back my tears, a wave of mixed emotions washed over me. Happiness for the future ahead with Vittorio, but also a profound sadness that my parents couldn't be here to witness this momentous day. Marrying Vittorio was not just about joining our lives; it was about stepping into a new chapter without my parents by my side.

My brother, noticed the tears welling up in my eyes and gently took my hand. "They're watching over us, Zara," he said softly. "They're here in spirit."

"I miss them so much, Adi," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion.

"I know," he replied gently. "But today is about celebrating you and Vittorio. They'd want you to be happy."

Taking a deep breath, I nodded, focusing on the joy of the day. It was time to embrace the new beginning with an open heart.

As we made our way to the mandap, the ceremonial space adorned with flowers and rich fabrics, the soft strains of the shehnai, and the gentle murmur of guests filled the air. The mandap stood as a sacred haven, its beauty enhanced by the evening's soft glow.

When I saw Vittorio waiting for me, my heart skipped a beat. He looked incredibly handsome in his elegant sherwani, his gaze locked onto mine with an intensity that spoke volumes. Walking towards him, I felt a blend of heaviness and lightness – the weight of tradition balanced by the buoyancy of our shared future.

Our eyes met, and in that moment, words were unnecessary. We both understood the significance of the roles we were about to take on.

Vittorio's POV

As Zara walked towards the mandap, I couldn't tear my eyes away from her. She was breathtaking, her beauty magnified by the traditional bridal attire. My heart pounded with every step she took, each one bringing her closer to me and our future together.

Lorenzo, my brother, nudged me playfully. "Focus, brother. You're supposed to be saying your vows, not getting lost in her eyes."

I chuckled, trying to maintain my composure. "I know, Lorenzo. But look at her. She's remarkable. It's hard to concentrate when she looks like that."