Chapter 9: Chapter 6

The wedding celebration was in full swing. The air buzzed with laughter and music as family members gathered to celebrate the union of Urmi and Vasu. The garland exchange marked the beginning, followed by a series of light-hearted dances and cheers.

Amidst the lively chaos, Siya found herself searching. She told herself it wasn’t for him, but her heart betrayed her resolve. She wanted to see Raghav.

“Are you looking for someone?”

His voice came from behind, startling her. She turned abruptly, her foot slipping on the polished floor. Before she could fall in front of everyone, his arm encircled her waist, steadying her.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Her heart raced as her breath caught. Butterflies fluttered wildly in her chest, betraying her composure.

“Thank you,” she managed, regaining her balance. She glanced away quickly. “And no, I wasn’t looking for you.”

He smirked. “I didn’t say my name.”

Her eyes widened. Great, Siya. You walked right into that one. She opened her mouth to excuse herself, but before she could, Raghav's expression turned serious. “Never mind. I just wanted to ask—by any chance, were you walking along the river pathway one evening?”

She frowned, looking directly into his eyes. “Do you have a hobby of asking random questions to people you barely know?”

“No, I just thought—”

“I don’t live here,” she interrupted. “So, no. I’ve never walked along any river pathways. Does that answer your question?”

He hesitated, but before he could say more, the anchor announced, “Okay, everyone! It’s time for the couple dance! Find your partners and join us on the dance floor!”

The crowd erupted in cheers.

“Oh, Raghav! Are you dancing with Siya?” Someone teased me.

Siya’s cheeks burned, but, Raghav cut in, his tone sharp. “No, I’m not. Stop making assumptions.”

The words hit Siya like a slap. Embarrassment and indignation bubbled within her. What a jerk. She turned her back on him, determined to avoid him for the rest of the evening. I won't dance with him ever, even if he begged me.

But Raghav realizing his mistake, quickly approached her. His voice was low, almost pleading. “I’m sorry. That was uncalled for. I didn’t mean to insult you. Would you—” he paused, clearing his throat—“will you like to dance? ”

Siya crossed her arms. “No, thank you. I don’t accept forced invitations.” She started to walk away, but he gently grabbed her hand.

“Wait,” he said softly. “Please. It’s not an invitation—it’s a request. Dance with me, please?”

Her pride fought her, but his earnest expression softened her resolve. With a sigh, she agreed.

As they took to the dance floor, her internal voice mocked her. So much for even if he begs.

“They should’ve played Indila’s Love Story,” she murmured.

Raghav blinked, surprised. “You too?”

Her eyes widened. “You thought the same?”

They both laughed, the awkwardness between them easing. The music, the lights, and their shared moment felt almost magical.

The ceremony progressed, and with all the Hindu rituals completed, Urmi and Vasu were officially declared husband and wife.

Then came the bidaai.

Tears flowed freely as Urmi hugged each family member, lingering the longest with Siya.

“Whenever you miss me,” Urmi whispered, her voice trembling, “just come to me, okay?”

Siya nodded, trying to hold back her sobs. Mrs. Desai patted both sisters on their heads lovingly, while Mr. Desai cleared his throat. Finally, the car drove off, leaving behind a trail of bittersweet memories.

As the car disappeared into the distance, the family stood in silence, their emotions heavy. Slowly, the crowd dispersed, and the chatter resumed.

Ananya tugged at Siya’s arm. “Siya Di, why don’t you come stay with us? It’ll be so much fun!”

Siya smiled wistfully. “I wish I could, but I’ve already spent a month here. It’s time to get back to my mundane life.”

Before Ananya could protest further, Raghav appeared in the doorway. He gestured for Siya to follow him, then walked toward the garden.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, catching up to him. “Did they leave you behind?”

He chuckled softly. “No, I stayed back to—”

“Let me guess,” she cutting him off, tired of his habit. “You have more questions?”

“No, No, I’m not here with another question. I just wanted to apologize for being rude these past two days... and for asking too many questions. Actually, I did have one more, but it can wait," he said, holding up his hands in surrender, "I just wanted to apologize.”

She raised an eyebrow. But the irritation melted long ago. “No, go ahead. Ask me.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

He looked at her intently. “Have we met before?”

His question hung in the air, her heart pounding as memories flooded back. Did he remember? She studied his face, searching for a hint of recognition. But no... there was nothing. Not a spark. Not a flicker.

"No," she said softly, masking her disappointment with a faint smile. "Why ?”

He smiled. “Just a feeling. Anyway, if you ever miss Bhabhi, you’re welcome at my house anytime.”

With that, he left, his smile lingering like a gentle ray of sunshine.

Siya stood rooted, thunderstruck.

At Urmi's Home

As Siya packed her belongings, Samar entered the room. She ignored him, but he cleared his throat.

“That guy...Raghav. Is there something going on between you two?”

She turned, glaring. “What’s it to you? Even if there is, mind your own business.”

“Siya, I’m worried about you. He didn’t seem like a nice guy. At the engagement, he kept staring at you—”

“So what?” she snapped. “Even if he did, who are you to judge him? Or me? Don’t act like you’re perfect. I’d rather trust him than a hypocrite like you.”

Tears streamed down her face as she stormed out, leaving Samar frozen in guilt. He remembered the time Siya had defended him when everyone else doubted him, and guilt tore through him.

“I’m sorry, Siya,” he whispered, sinking to his knees. “I’m so sorry...”