Bound by Fire

A Wedding to Remember

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The morning of the wedding dawned bright and early, with the sun casting a golden glow over the city. Sanya woke up to the sound of her bridesmaids bustling around, laying out her wedding attire, and organizing her jewelry. She stretched, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves wash over her. Today was the day.

Sanya's aunt, Mira Maasi, burst into the room with a beaming smile and a steaming cup of chai. "Look at you, my little bride! I can't believe today has finally arrived." She placed the chai on the bedside table and sat down beside Sanya, reaching out to hold her hand.

"It still feels surreal," Sanya admitted, smiling. "But I'm ready."

The bridesmaids helped her into the elaborate red and gold lehenga that had stolen everyone's breath during the fittings. She felt like a princess as the silk skirt flowed around her, its intricate embroidery catching the light. Her hair was styled in a traditional braid adorned with jasmine flowers, and her jewelry sparkled with each movement. As they added the final touches—kohl-lined eyes, a touch of blush, and the vermillion red lipstick that matched her lehenga perfectly—Sanya took a deep breath, preparing herself for what was to come.

Meanwhile, Aarav was a bundle of nerves as he paced around his room. His best friend, Raj, and a couple of cousins were trying to calm him down, but he barely heard their jokes or reassurances. Dressed in an ivory sherwani with intricate gold detailing, he looked every bit the dashing groom, but inside, he felt like a nervous wreck.

Raj clapped him on the back. "Relax, man. You're marrying the girl of your dreams. You should be thrilled, not panicking."

Aarav shot him a glance, finally managing a smile. "I am thrilled. Just... you know, there's a lot riding on today."

"You two have survived every twist and turn thrown at you so far," Raj said with a grin. "Today will be a breeze in comparison."

Aarav chuckled, feeling a little lighter. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror, straightened his sherwani, and took a deep breath. "Alright, let's do this."

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As the guests filled the wedding venue, a beautiful open garden surrounded by blooming flowers, fairy lights, and elaborate decorations, Sanya felt a wave of emotions wash over her. She stood at the entrance with her family, her heart racing as she took in the sea of familiar faces.

The music shifted, and Sanya's father took her hand, giving her a reassuring smile. "You look beautiful, beta. Are you ready?"

Sanya nodded, taking a deep breath. As they stepped forward, all eyes turned to her. The crowd parted, and she spotted Aarav waiting for her at the mandap, his eyes widening when he saw her. For a moment, the chaos faded away, and it was just the two of them, connected in a way that words could never fully capture.

Aarav's gaze was filled with awe as he watched her approach. He couldn't take his eyes off her, and when she finally reached him, he whispered, "You look incredible."

Sanya felt her cheeks flush, a soft smile playing on her lips. "So do you," she replied, taking in his sharp features and the warmth in his eyes. They held hands, feeling the world around them melt away as they took in the gravity of the moment.

The priest began chanting the prayers, and Sanya and Aarav followed the rituals, exchanging garlands and performing the sacred fire ceremony. Each step felt like a promise, a commitment to face whatever life had in store for them—together.

As they circled the fire, Aarav held her hand tightly, whispering to her between the chants. "Are you nervous?"

Sanya glanced up at him, her eyes shining with both excitement and a hint of mischief. "Maybe a little," she replied, leaning in closer. "But mostly because I'm wondering if you'll manage to step on my toes again."