The Mafia heart ( book 1 )

chapter 36 A New Beginning

The sun was setting, casting a warm golden glow over the garden where Vikram had planned a special evening for Mehek. He wanted everything to be perfect. Flowers were arranged beautifully, and soft music played in the background. The air was filled with the sweet scent of jasmine. It was the kind of evening that felt magical, and Vikram hoped it would change everything between them.

As Mehek arrived, her eyes widened in surprise. "Vikram, what is all this?" she asked, her voice a mix of confusion and curiosity.

Vikram smiled, his heart racing. "I wanted to do something special for you. To show you how much you mean to me."

Mehek looked around, taking in the lights and decorations. "You didn't have to go through all this trouble."

"I wanted to," he said, stepping closer to her. "You deserve to feel special. You deserve happiness."

She bit her lip, a hint of a smile breaking through her usual reserve. "It's... beautiful. Really."

"Just wait," Vikram said, taking her hand and leading her to a table set for two. "I have something important to ask you."

They sat down, and Vikram felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. "Mehek," he began, looking into her eyes, "I know things between us haven't been easy. But I believe we can start fresh."

Mehek lowered her gaze, her expression thoughtful. "Vikram, I-"

"Please, just hear me out," he interrupted gently. "I want to make things right. I love you, Mehek. I truly do. And I want to spend my life with you. So I'm asking... will you marry me again?"

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Opening it revealed a stunning ring, sparkling in the evening light. "Will you be my wife, properly this time?"

Mehek's breath caught in her throat. She stared at the ring, her heart racing. "Vikram, this is... a lot."

"Not as much as you mean to me," he said earnestly, taking her hands in his. "I want to prove to you that I can be the husband you deserve. I want us to have a real marriage, filled with love and joy."

Tears welled in Mehek's eyes as she looked at the ring and then at Vikram. "You really mean it, don't you?"

"Every word," he assured her, his gaze unwavering. "I know I haven't shown you the love you deserve in the past, but I promise to change. I want to be better for you."

Mehek blinked back her tears, feeling emotions she hadn't allowed herself to feel before. "You're serious?"

"Completely," Vikram replied, his voice soft but firm. "So, what do you say? Will you marry me?"

A smile slowly spread across Mehek's face, and she nodded. "Yes! Yes, I will marry you!"

Vikram's face lit up with joy. He slipped the ring onto her finger, and they both stared at it, their hearts racing with excitement. "It looks perfect on you," he said, unable to contain his happiness.

"Thank you," Mehek whispered, her eyes shining with emotion. "I can't believe this is happening."

Vikram reached across the table, taking her hand again. "Let's make it official this time. We'll plan everything together, a real wedding."

Mehek nodded, her heart swelling with happiness. "I would love that. I want to do it right this time."

Vikram grinned. "Then let's start planning. How about we choose a date and a venue together? We can invite our families and friends."

"That sounds amazing," Mehek said, feeling a warmth spread through her. "I've always dreamed of having a beautiful wedding."

"Then let's make that dream come true," Vikram replied, his eyes sparkling. "We'll make it unforgettable."

As they shared ideas and dreams about their wedding, the air around them felt lighter, filled with hope and new beginnings. Mehek couldn't believe how different things felt. The walls she had built around her heart were starting to crumble, and she found herself falling for Vikram in a way she had never expected.

"Vikram," she said, her voice softer, "can I ask you something?"

"Anything," he replied, leaning closer, his full attention on her.

"What if... what if I still have doubts? What if I can't trust you completely right away?"

Vikram nodded, understanding the fear behind her words. "I know it won't be easy. Trust takes time. But I promise I'll be patient. I'll prove myself to you every day."

Mehek felt a flutter in her chest. "I want to believe you, Vikram. I really do."

"Then let's take it one step at a time," he suggested. "We can go on dates, spend more time together, and just enjoy each other's company. No pressure."

"I like that idea," Mehek said, smiling brightly. "I want to get to know you better."

"And I want to know you, too," Vikram replied, his gaze warm. "We'll build our love slowly, and it will be real."

As the evening wore on, they talked and laughed, sharing stories and plans for their future. Mehek felt lighter than she had in a long time. With each passing moment, she realized how much she wanted this-how much she wanted Vikram.

"Okay, let's make a list," Mehek suggested suddenly, pulling out her phone. "We should list everything we want for the wedding!"

"Great idea!" Vikram exclaimed, leaning in to see her screen. "What should we start with?"

"Venue! I've always dreamed of a beautiful garden wedding," Mehek said, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Perfect! I know just the place," Vikram replied, his enthusiasm infectious. "And we can have a big celebration. I want everyone to see how happy we are."

As they brainstormed ideas, Vikram realized how much he loved seeing Mehek like this-excited and full of life. He couldn't wait to make her dreams come true.

"Okay, and what about the guest list?" Mehek asked, her brows furrowing slightly. "Should we keep it small or invite everyone?"

"Let's invite our families and close friends," Vikram suggested. "We want people who truly care about us to be there."

"I agree," Mehek said, nodding. "And we should have music and dancing! I love dancing."

Vikram chuckled. "I'll make sure it's a night to remember. You'll be the most beautiful bride, and I'll be the proudest husband."

The warmth in Mehek's heart spread, and she felt a new wave of love for Vikram. Maybe this could work. Maybe they could find happiness together.

As the stars twinkled above, the future suddenly felt bright. With laughter and excitement, they began to plan the wedding of their dreams, sealing their love with every shared smile and every whispered hope.