PATHS OF HEART

9

Note:- Story takes a leap of a month, Flashback in Italics, Shayari in bold italics.

**One Month Later**

The morning of Anuj and Anupama's engagement dawned bright and full of anticipation. The house was buzzing with excitement as everyone prepared for the big day. Friends and family had gathered from near and far, filling the house with laughter and love. The air was thick with the fragrance of fresh flowers and the sound of traditional music playing softly in the background.

Anupama was in her room, getting ready with the help of Meera, Sushma, and her close friend, Devika. Today was special, not just because it was her engagement, but because she was going to wear something that held deep sentimental value—a beautiful red saree with a golden border and intricate embroidery, paired with a stunning diamond necklace gifted by Anuj.

*Flashback to Anupama's birthday...*

It had been a quiet evening, just the two of them. Anuj had planned a simple dinner at her favorite restaurant, followed by a walk along the beach. As they walked, Anuj held her hand tightly, his thumb gently stroking her knuckles. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore created a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

As they reached a quiet spot, Anuj stopped and turned to face her, his eyes sparkling with a mix of mischief and affection. "I have something for you," he said, pulling out a small, elegantly wrapped box from his pocket.

Anupama looked at him, puzzled. "Anuj, you didn't have to—"

"I wanted to," he interrupted, his smile widening. "Happy birthday, Anupama."

With trembling fingers, she unwrapped the box to reveal a breathtaking diamond necklace, the diamonds catching the moonlight and shimmering like stars. Anupama gasped, her eyes filling with tears. "Anuj, this is... it's beautiful."

Anuj took the necklace from the box and gently fastened it around her neck. "Not as beautiful as you," he whispered, his voice filled with love. "I wanted you to have something that would always remind you of this moment... of us."

Anupama touched the necklace, feeling the coolness of the diamonds against her skin. She looked up at him, her heart overflowing with love. "Thank you, Anuj. I'll cherish this forever."

*End of flashback.*

Now, standing in front of the mirror, Anupama couldn't help but smile as she remembered that moment. The saree draped perfectly over her frame, its rich red hue complementing her glowing skin. The diamond necklace rested elegantly against her collarbone, a symbol of Anuj's love and their unbreakable bond. She looked every bit the bride-to-be—radiant, graceful, and filled with joy.

Meera, standing behind her, placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "You look stunning, Anupama. Anuj is going to be speechless when he sees you."

Sushma, who was adjusting the pleats of the saree, nodded in agreement. "This saree was made for you. And that necklace... it's like it was always meant to be yours."

Anupama blushed, her excitement bubbling over. "Thank you, Maa. I can't wait to see Anuj's reaction."

When everything was ready, Anupama descended the stairs, her heart pounding with anticipation. As she reached the bottom step, she looked up to see Anuj standing near the entrance, surrounded by guests. The moment their eyes met, time seemed to stand still.

Anuj was dressed in a crisp white sherwani with delicate gold embroidery. But it wasn't his attire that made him stand out—it was the way his eyes locked onto Anupama, filled with awe and emotion. He hadn't expected to be so overwhelmed, but the sight of her took his breath away.