DESTINY

[Muh dikhai]

The soft morning light filtered through the windows of the ancestral mansion, casting a warm glow over the bustling preparations. Zoya woke up to the gentle knock of her mother-in-law, Meera, who entered with a tray of warm milk and almonds.

"Good morning, beta. Today is a big day," Meera said with a warm smile, placing the tray on the bedside table.

Zoya, still adjusting to the new environment of her marital home, offered a shy smile in return. Her cheeks flushed with nervous anticipation. It was her muh dikhai, a day where she'd meet the extended family as Dev's wife.

"I hope you slept well," Meera asked gently.

"Yes, Ma," Zoya replied, her voice soft but sincere.

Meera brushed a strand of Zoya's hair away from her face. "Good. Now, I've called the beautician to help you get ready. Don't worry, everything will be perfect. Just be yourself."

Zoya nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension.

In the bridal suite, the air was filled with the scent of roses and jasmine. The beautician worked on Zoya with care, adorning her in a deep red saree embroidered with gold. Her hair was styled into a neat bun, adorned with a string of fresh jasmine flowers. The jewelry, added an elegant touch-heavy gold necklaces, delicate bangles, and a stunning maang tikka resting on her forehead.

As Zoya looked at herself in the mirror, her thoughts wandered to Dev. She couldn't help but smile, remembering his reassurances the previous night. "Don't worry, Zoya," he had said. "You'll steal their hearts, just like you stole mine."

Her reverie was interrupted by the sound of Mihika's cheerful voice. "Zoya! You look like a queen!" Mihika teased as she walked in.

"Mihika, stop it," Zoya said, trying to hide her blush.

"Well, you better get used to compliments, bhabhi," Mihika said with a wink. "After all, you're the star today."

As the guests gathered in the grand hall, Dev stood near the entrance, waiting to escort Zoya. He was dressed in an ivory sherwani with gold detailing, looking every bit the regal groom. His eyes lit up as he saw Zoya walking towards him.

He extended his hand, and she placed hers in his, feeling his warmth steady her nerves. Together, they entered the hall, where all eyes turned to the newlyweds.

Zoya sat on a beautifully decorated seat while Dev stood beside her. Before anyone came dev stood between all ladies and zoya , he inserted under her ghunghat, making Zoya gasped.. "ye kya kar rahe ho"!!
Everyone teasing them laughing at entire sceniero "dev beta abhi ke liye toh chhod do apni biwi ko" Meera insisting

"Hey wifey!..
"nhi maa Pehle mera haq hai apne chaand ko dekhne ka" he pecked her lips , and run away, Zoya was processing what just happened, "iss ko toh me btaugi baad me"
Zoya muttered kutta free kiss leke bhaag gya.

One by one, the women of the family came forward, unveiling her face and presenting her with gifts-gold coins, jewelry, and sarees. Each complimented her grace and beauty, making Zoya's cheeks turn a deeper shade of pink.

Finally, Dev's mother approached, holding a small velvet box. She opened it to reveal an exquisite diamond necklace. "This is for my bahu, who has brought light into our family," she said, her voice filled with affection.

Zoya touched her mother-in-law's feet, overwhelmed with gratitude.

As the ceremony continued, Dev couldn't resist whispering in her ear, "You're doing great, Mrs. Dev singh bhardwaj."

Zoya turned to him, her eyes twinkling. "Thank you, Mr. Bhardwaj. And thank you for being here."

Dev smirked. "Always."