In the heart of chaos

Chapter 38

The Goenka mansion was abuzz with excitement. Twinkling lights adorned every corner, and the air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers. The entire family was preparing for the grand engagement of Aarohi Goenka and Rishi Malhotra, a day that was long anticipated but not without its share of drama, fights, and—of course—banter.

Inside her room, Aarohi stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the delicate, embroidered dupatta over her heavily embellished lehenga. The jewelry she wore gleamed under the soft light, and the necklace around her neck—the one given to her in a dream by Naira Maa—felt like a constant source of strength.

Trisha entered the room with a playful grin. "Look at you, Ms. Goenka soon-to-be Mrs. Malhotra! Nervous?"

Aarohi turned, rolling her eyes but smiling. "Me? Nervous? Not at all."

Shalini, who followed Trisha inside, laughed. "You can lie to us, but your heartbeat is probably racing. Your Rishi will be waiting downstairs, and trust me, Kairav and Vansh aren't taking it easy on him."

Aarohi raised an eyebrow. "What did they do this time?"

Trisha grinned, sitting beside Aarohi. "Let's just say Vansh bhaiya told him to 'take care of you or else' in front of the whole family. Kairav joined in, and now Rishi's sweating under their stares."

Aarohi chuckled. "I'll deal with them later. Rishi deserves a little fear before he gets the prize."

They all shared a laugh before Suwarna entered the room, looking emotional. "My little Aaru, you're growing up so fast. I still remember when you used to run around the house in your school uniform, and now here you are, ready to start a new chapter of your life."

Aarohi smiled softly, feeling the warmth of her family surrounding her. She had always felt so much pressure being compared to Akshara, being Naira's daughter—but today, she felt like her own person, finally stepping into her own destiny.

Downstairs, the scene was slightly different. The Malhotra family had arrived in grand style, with Rishi looking dapper in a royal blue sherwani. Ekansh, Isha, and Prisha were goofing around as usual, making sure to poke fun at Rishi at every opportunity. Kaushiki and Rajveer were mingling with the Goenkas, and the air of excitement between both families was palpable.

Rishi, however, was not entirely at ease. He was standing with Vansh and Kairav, who had taken it upon themselves to make sure Rishi knew just how protective they were of Aarohi.

"So, Rishi," Kairav began with a mischievous smile, "you know Aarohi doesn't tolerate nonsense, right?"

Vansh leaned in. "And if you ever make her cry..."

Rishi, though uncomfortable, knew they were half-serious but mostly teasing. He smirked. "You two can stop now. Aarohi's more likely to make me cry."

Kairav and Vansh laughed, clapping him on the back. "True," Vansh admitted, "but you'll have to deal with us if she does."

Before they could continue, a hush fell over the crowd as Aarohi began descending the grand staircase. All eyes turned to her, and Rishi couldn't help but stare, his usual teasing demeanor replaced by awe as he saw her approach.

Aarohi caught his gaze, and a smile spread across her face. For all their banter, there was a real connection between them—one that had grown through the arguments, the misunderstandings, and even the lies.

As Aarohi reached the bottom of the stairs, she joined Rishi at the center of the hall, where a beautifully decorated stage had been set for their engagement ceremony. The priest motioned for them to step forward.

Rishi leaned in slightly, whispering, "You look beautiful. You sure you're ready for this?"

Aarohi smirked. "I was born ready. You? You look like you might faint."

Rishi chuckled under his breath, trying to hide his nervousness. "Don't flatter yourself too much."

As they reached the stage, the priest began the rituals. Both families watched with pride, the Goenkas on one side and the Malhotras on the other. There was an undeniable feeling of celebration in the air, but as always, it wouldn't be complete without a bit of drama.

The moment came for the exchange of rings. Aarohi extended her hand, and Rishi slipped the sparkling engagement ring onto her finger. Their eyes met again, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to fall away. It was just the two of them, their banter, their fights, and all the moments that had brought them to this point.

When it was Aarohi's turn to place the ring on Rishi's finger, she held his hand, a mischievous glint in her eye. "You know," she whispered loud enough for only him to hear, "I could still back out."

Rishi's smile widened. "Too late. You're stuck with me now."

As the ceremony concluded, everyone erupted into applause. Vansh and Kairav hugged their sister, and Trisha and Shalini teased her endlessly about how she would have to "control" Rishi after marriage.

Later, as the festivities continued, Aarohi found herself in a quieter corner of the house, catching her breath. The noise and attention were overwhelming at times. Just as she was about to step outside for some fresh air, Rishi approached her.

"Running away already?" he teased.

Aarohi sighed, though she smiled. "Just taking a break from the madness."

Rishi leaned against the wall, watching her closely. "You're amazing, you know that?"

Aarohi raised an eyebrow. "Trying to butter me up already?"

"No," Rishi said, more seriously this time. "I mean it. You've been through so much, dealt with so many people—and yet, here you are. Still standing strong."

Aarohi looked at him, the banter fading between them for a moment. "Thanks," she said softly. "I've had my family, and even when things got hard, I always had someone pushing me forward."

Rishi smiled. "And now you've got me. Whether you like it or not."

Aarohi shook her head, her smile returning. "We'll see about that."

Before they could banter further, they were called back into the main hall for the final family celebrations. The night was far from over, but in that moment, Aarohi felt a sense of calm. She was ready for whatever was to come—with or without the banter.