Love's Rivalry (LOVE AND WAR)

PART 9: My Girl-Only Mine

Rudra paced nervously in his room, thoughts racing. Soumya is my girl—only mine. The determination swelled within him. He could feel it in his bones; no one could come between them, especially not Rehaan. He made a plan—a surprise proposal in front of the whole family, with the support of his friends.

His friends were equally invested, harboring their own disdain for Rehaan. The way he flaunted his charm had not only won Soumya's attention but also that of other girls in college, including their own girlfriends. Their complaints echoed in Rudra's mind. "Why can't you be more romantic like Rehaan?" became a familiar refrain. This had turned Rudra and his friends into a solid anti-Rehaan group, ready to fight for what was rightfully his.

That evening, with a spark of mischief in his eyes, Rudra approached his family. "Can we all go to our beach house this weekend? It's been such a stressful week; we all need to refresh our minds and relax, right?"

His family exchanged glances, and after a moment, everyone enthusiastically agreed.

The next day, excitement buzzed in the air as they packed their bags. Shivay had arranged for a big van to accommodate the entire family, and soon, they were on their way. As they drove through the scenic route, Rudra's heart raced with anticipation.

By 5:30 PM, they arrived at the beach house. The salty breeze and the sound of waves crashing set the perfect backdrop. Omkara and Shivay got to work preparing the BBQ, while Anika and Ishana gathered with the elder Oberois for a card game. Tej was preoccupied with a phone call about a business deal.

But Rudra was on a different mission. He huddled with his friends, planning and preparing for the big moment. "Tonight's the night," he said, his voice steady. "I'll make sure Soumya knows just how much she means to me."

(Same decoration setting done by rudra and his friends expect the girls approval)

As dinner time approached, everyone was called to the backyard, where the atmosphere shifted to one of excitement. The area was dimly lit, adding to the anticipation, but a spotlight illuminated the makeshift stage that Rudra and his friends had prepared.

Rudra took a deep breath, guitar in hand. He strummed the opening chords of "Kangalilae" from Pencil, his voice ringing out into the evening air. As he sang, he moved toward Soumya, who stood among the crowd, her eyes wide with surprise.

When he reached her, he bent down on one knee, holding her gaze. "Soumya, you were the first girl that this Rudy fell in love with. I know love is like an everyday newspaper for many, but after you came into my life, everything changed."

His heart raced as he continued, "Today, this Rudra Singh Oberoi wants to make a lifetime commitment. Will you marry me and become my better half?"

The world around them faded; all he could see was Soumya, her face illuminated by the spotlight, a mix of shock and joy dancing in her eyes. The backyard erupted into whispers, the rest of the family captivated by the moment.

Soumya's breath caught in her throat. "Rudra... I—"

Before she could finish, Rudra's friends cheered, encouraging her. "Say yes, Soumya!" one shouted.

With tears of happiness glistening in her eyes, Soumya finally whispered, "Yes! Yes, of course, I will!"

Rudra's face broke into a radiant smile as he slipped a ring onto her finger, the cheers of their family surrounding them. It was a moment of pure joy, love enveloping them like the waves lapping at the shore.

As the night wore on, they celebrated under the stars, the sound of laughter mingling with the ocean breeze. Rudra felt a sense of triumph; he had fought for his love and won.

And as Soumya leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder, he knew in that moment that they were destined to be together, no matter the obstacles.