The Oberois’ convoy of sleek black cars pulled into the grand entrance of Priyanka’s in-laws’ bungalow — a beautifully preserved blend of old money and modern elegance. The lawn was adorned with soft pink and yellow florals, strung up in delicate arrangements. Women in pastel sarees and lehengas moved gracefully, and the air smelled of mogra and marigold.
Anika stepped out of the car, slightly adjusting the pallu of her soft lavender saree. Her eyes scanned the crowd till she caught a familiar, glowing face approaching her with the widest smile.
“Anika!” Priyanka rushed forward, her baby bump prominent, cheeks flushed with excitement.
Anika smiled instantly, stepping toward her. “Priyanka! Tum khil rahi ho(You look radiant.)”
Priyanka hugged her gently, careful with the bump. “I'm so happy you’re here. I’ve been meaning to meet you for so long. I'm so sorry—”
Anika interrupted with a warm shake of her head. “Don’t be. I should’ve come sooner. You’re the one who’s pregnant, glowing and busy growing a tiny human. I had no excuse.”
They laughed and linked arms, walking slowly toward the patio where the rest of the guests were gathered.
“It’s weird, isn’t it?” Priyanka said, glancing sideways. “Just a few years ago, you were at my wedding. And now here you are, being requested for this”
Anika smiled, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. “Destiny, I must say”
Before Priyanka could respond, a familiar voice cut through from behind.
“Okay, who's the gorgeous lady here?”
Anika turned, recognizing the voice instantly.
“Mallika!”
The two women embraced tightly, like old friends reunited after too long.
Mallika pulled back and studied her. “You look so pretty in that saree”
Anika gave her a smile, brushing back a strand of hair. “Maybe.”
"Koi maybe nahi, havent your man complimented already?" She teased
"He didn't even get the time. Unhe kya hi farak parta hai(why would he care?)" Anika replied. She was disappointed when she came in the morning and Shivaay was rushing to make sure last minute work gets done. He did glance at her and smiled but there was nothing more.
Mallika nudged her teasingly. “Farak to use parta hai. You’ve no idea how miserable he was without you. Brooding, cranky, and pretending he was ‘just fine.’”
“He told me some of it,” Anika admitted, softer now.
Mallika lowered her voice, her gaze affectionate. “You balance him. So how is the job?”
Anika blinked a little too fast but recovered. “Its great now, I love it there. Shivaay ne bataya you have a baby girl now?” Anika asked
"Yes, she is 18 months old now. Mai niche nahi laayi use because she would panic with the number of guests" Mallika politely replied.
The three of them talked for a while, and Anika caught sight of Shivaay on the other side of the lawn. He looked effortlessly regal in a cream kurta with gold embroidery, sleeves rolled to his elbows, talking to Priyanka’s father-in-law.
But his eyes found Anika almost immediately.
He didn’t wave, but the way his eyes softened, how his lips curved just slightly—it was more than enough.
Priyanka caught the silent exchange. “So... when's the wedding?”
“Priyanka!”
“What? I’m just asking!” she teased. “You two have been endgame since day one. I still don't get it why you had to break up”
YOU ARE READING
The GIRLFRIEND Deal
Romance"The best relationships usually begin unexpectedly" Shivaay Singh Oberoi, a heartbroken lover whose ex betrayed him after a successful relationship of 5 years. His faith on love ceases to zero. Anika, an aspiring Interior designer does local plays...
