Heart's In Bloom

Chapter-19 "Seeking Blessings"

Derek and Kiara had come a long way from their first playful interaction in the hostel. Their bond had grown stronger through the ups and downs of college life, the intense GC competitions, and the quiet moments they shared. Now, standing on the cusp of a new journey, they decided to take the next step together: marriage.

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Asking for Permission

One weekend, Derek and Kiara decided it was time to talk to their parents about their intention to get married. They invited both sets of parents over to Kiara's apartment for a heartfelt discussion. Derek's parents, Mr. and Mrs. D'Souza, arrived first, warmly greeting Kiara and expressing their pride in Derek's accomplishments.

"Mom, Dad, we have something important to discuss," Derek began, taking Kiara's hand in his. "Kiara and I want to get married. We've been through so much together, and we know we're ready for this step."

Mr. D'Souza smiled warmly. "If Kiara makes you happy, Derek, she is already part of our family. We are more than happy to welcome her."

Mrs. D'Souza added, "Kiara, you have our full support and blessing. We couldn't ask for a better match for Derek."

Just as the atmosphere was filled with warmth and joy, Kiara's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kapoor, arrived. The mood shifted slightly as they sensed the seriousness of the discussion. After exchanging pleasantries, Kiara took a deep breath and began.

"Mom, Dad, Derek and I want to get married. I love him deeply, and he's the one for me."

Mrs. Kapoor's face tightened, and she exchanged a worried glance with her husband. "Kiara, marriage is a big decision. Are you sure about this? Have you thought it through?"

"Derek is a good guy, but this seems so sudden," Mr. Kapoor added, his tone serious. "You both are still so young. Have you considered your career and future plans?"

Kiara's heart sank, but she maintained her composure. "Mom, Dad, we've thought about this a lot. Derek and I support each other's dreams and ambitions. We've planned how we will balance our careers and support each other's goals."

Mrs. Kapoor's voice softened slightly, but there was still a hint of tension. "It's not that we don't trust your judgment, Kiara. But marriage is a lifelong commitment. We just want to be sure you're making the right choice."

Mr. Kapoor then spoke up, his voice firm, "There's another concern. Derek is Punjabi, and he's not from our caste. We have always wanted you to marry someone from our own community."

Kiara's eyes filled with tears, but she held her ground. "Mom, Dad, I love Derek for who he is, not for his caste or background. He's the person I want to spend my life with."

Derek, sensing the need for reassurance, spoke up. "Mr. and Mrs. Kapoor, I understand where you're coming from. I promise you that I will always support Kiara in her career and personal growth. We've faced many challenges together and come out stronger. We are ready for this step."

Mr. Kapoor's expression remained stern. "We've already found someone we think is a suitable match for you, Kiara. Someone from our community, who understands our values and traditions."

Kiara's voice trembled with emotion. "I respect your wishes, but this is my life. Derek and I have built something special together. I can't imagine my future without him."

Mrs. Kapoor sighed deeply. "We just want what's best for you, Kiara. We've always envisioned you marrying someone from our caste, someone who shares our customs and traditions."

Kiara's frustration bubbled over. "Traditions are important, but they can't dictate who I choose to spend my life with. Derek respects our traditions, and we've already discussed how we'll honor both our backgrounds."

Mr. Kapoor's face softened slightly as he saw the determination in his daughter's eyes. "It's not an easy decision for us, Kiara. We've always dreamed of a certain future for you."

Derek interjected gently, "Mr. Kapoor, Mrs. Kapoor, I promise you that I will honor and respect your traditions. Kiara and I have talked about how we can blend our cultures and create a life that respects both our backgrounds."

Mrs. Kapoor's eyes filled with tears. "Kiara, we love you, and we want you to be happy. This is just very hard for us to accept."

Kiara reached out and took her mother's hand. "Mom, Dad, please trust me. Derek and I have thought about this carefully. We love each other and are ready to face the future together."

After a long moment of silence, Mr. Kapoor nodded slowly. "If this is truly what you want, Kiara, then we will support you. It won't be easy for us, but we want you to be happy."

Mrs. Kapoor squeezed Kiara's hand, her voice trembling. "We trust you, Kiara. And we'll try to understand and accept Derek as part of our family."

Relief washed over Kiara and Derek. "Thank you, Mom, Dad," Kiara said, her voice choked with emotion.

Mr. D'Souza smiled warmly. "Welcome to the family, Kiara."

Mrs. D'Souza added, "And welcome to ours, Derek."

END OF THE CHAPTER

"Hey everyone! Exciting news! Derek and Kiara's wedding is coming up in the next chapters! Stay tuned for all the love, laughter, and unforgettable moments! 💍❤️"
Bye byee