Blueprints of Love

29. The Engagement Day

The sun shines brightly on Savi's engagement day, but the warmth feels distant. Dressed in an elegant saree, adorned with delicate embroidery that glimmers in the light, she stands before the mirror, trying to convince herself that this is what she wants. Yet, a knot tightens in her chest, threatening to choke her.

"Are you ready, bada?" Isha calls from the other room, her voice filled with excitement. Savi forces a smile, but inside, she feels anything but ready.

"Yeah, just a minute!" Savi replies, her voice shaky. She looks at her reflection, noticing how the makeup makes her look radiant, yet it feels like a mask hiding her true emotions. As she glances at the jewellery sparkling around her neck, she wonders if she is about to trade her heart for something that feels incomplete.

As the ceremony commences, the guests gather in the elegantly decorated hall, filled with vibrant flowers and flickering lights. The atmosphere buzzes with anticipation, laughter, and chatter, but Savi feels isolated, trapped in her thoughts. She watches her family smile and celebrate, and a pang of guilt washes over her. They deserve happiness, but at what cost?

Just as the pandit begins chanting, Savi's heart races. She glances around the room, searching for something—anything to ground her in this moment. Her eyes drift to the doorway, and for a brief second, she imagines Rajat standing there, his familiar smile brightening her day.

"Savi!" Isha calls, pulling her from her thoughts. "It's time."

"Right," she murmurs, forcing herself to walk towards the altar where the groom awaits. The music plays softly, and Savi takes a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves.

Just as the ceremony is about to begin, a familiar voice echoes through the hall. "I'm sorry I'm late!" The crowd falls silent, and heads turn toward the entrance. Savi's heart skips a beat as she recognizes the voice—Rajat.

He steps into the hall, looking effortlessly handsome in a tailored suit, his eyes scanning the room until they land on Savi. Time seems to freeze. She feels her breath hitch in her throat, caught between disbelief and hope. The guests exchange curious glances, whispering amongst themselves.

"What is he doing here?" Savi whispers, her heart racing.

"Is that Rajat Thakkar?" one of the guests murmurs, clearly recognizing him.

Savi's mind races back to the moments they shared, the laughter, the connection that once felt unbreakable. She feels a mixture of joy and panic. Why did I think he wouldn't come?

Isha strides over to Rajat, a smile illuminating her face. "Rajat! I'm so glad you made it!" She gestures for him to join them, but Savi remains frozen in place, her heart pounding loudly in her chest.

"Thanks, Aunty," Rajat replies, but his eyes are fixed on Savi. As he walks closer, her stomach twists with anticipation.

"Savi," he says softly, taking a step forward. "I had to come. I couldn't let you get engaged without at least saying something."

Savi's breath catches in her throat. "Rajat, you—"

"Savi, please," he interrupts gently, his gaze intense. "Just let me say this. I know I messed up before, but I can't just stand by and watch you marry someone else without telling you how I truly feel."

The room feels electric, filled with tension as everyone watches the unfolding scene. Savi's hands tremble at her sides, the weight of her decision crashing down on her. "Rajat, this isn't the time," she whispers, her voice shaky.

"It's exactly the time," Rajat insists, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I came back because I realised I never stopped loving you. I know it's complicated, but I want a chance to show you that I can be the man you need."