Whispers Of The Heart

Chapter 34

Sacchai ko pasand karne wale, ab sacchai se hi har waqt darte hai,

Baaton par bharosa karne wale, ab haqeeqat par bhi shaq karte hai.

"See to that garland properly, it's coming out," she instructed one of the workers sharply, her eyes scanning every detail with the precision of someone who wanted everything to be perfect.

The worker nodded and hurried off to fix the marigold garland that had started to come loose from the archway. She exhaled softly, running a hand over her forehead, pushing back a stray lock of hair.

"Madam, wo dekhein, seating area ready ho gaya hai," another worker called out, pointing toward the outer courtyard. (Madam, see, the seating area is ready.)

Dinayah turned her attention to the seating area, and a smile tugged at her lips as she took in the sight. The space looked breathtaking, bathed in the glow of carefully strung lights that twinkled like little stars. A canopy of golden-yellow fabric was draped elegantly overhead, fluttering gently in the breeze.

Under it, the platform where the groom would sit had been covered with soft yellow silk, embroidered with intricate gold designs. Surrounding it, garlands of marigolds cascaded like waterfalls, their vibrant yellow petals blending seamlessly with the décor. Strings of jasmine intertwined with the marigolds, adding a sweet fragrance to the air, while artificial leaves were artfully tucked into the arrangement, giving a subtle hint of green amidst the sea of yellow.

Around the platform, sitting mats had been laid out for the guests, made of handwoven jute. On top of each mat, bright yellow cushions were placed, their delicate mirrors catching the light from the small fairy lights strung overhead. Beside the platform, a small silver tray with rose petals, turmeric paste, and sandal paste sat waiting for the ceremony to begin.

The space felt alive with energy yet serene—a perfect blend of tradition and beauty. As she stood there taking it all in, she felt a quiet satisfaction settle over her. 

"Perfect," she said with a smile, passing a nod of approval to the worker. "Bohot hi acha sajaya hai aapne." The worker beamed, grateful for her appreciation. (You have decorated it very well.)

She let out a small sigh of relief. She had been overseeing the preparations since dawn, her energy ebbing with every detail, and now, finally, the work was done.

The wedding functions for Ashar were being hosted in their family home. It made sense since most of the bride's family lived in the same city, and the house was large enough to accommodate the celebrations. The haldi ceremony was set to begin in just an hour.

Dinayah glanced down at her reflection in a nearby mirror, her clothes smudged from the busy morning, strands of hair escaping her braid, and her face glowing with a mix of tiredness and satisfaction. She needed to change—quickly.

Giving one last look at the stunning decorations, she turned and headed upstairs to her room. After a quick shower, she pulled out the outfit she had been waiting to wear: a gorgeous purple and yellow suit that Arham had brought for her, the vibrant contrast of colors enhancing her glowing complexion.

Her yellow chandbalis dangled gracefully from her ears, the kajal in her eyes made them appear more mesmerizing, and her soft curls cascaded down her shoulders, framing her face with a natural elegance. After one final glance at herself in the mirror, she took a deep breath and ran out of her room, ready to welcome the guests downstairs.

She ran down the stairs, her dupatta flaring behind her like a ribbon caught in the breeze. As she reached the last step, the dupatta slipped near her feet, causing her to stumble. Just as she was about to fall, strong hands gripped her waist, steadying her.