If I had a perfect answer for all the lingering questions in my mind, I would search for the one which clarifies the reason for my laziness.
The girls have moved downstairs after getting ready, while I'm here mentally preparing myself to get up from my bed. Is it some sort of spell that your bed imitates a tranquil area, especially in the morning; you can't help but wish to stay there for long.
I remember being a kid, hating those times when my brother slept soundly and I had to go to school early in the morning.
Ahh Inaya enough with your lazy rants..you should get up!!
With a low grunt and already annoyed persona, I stride inwards the bathroom and freshen up. I recall all the useless theories while brushing my teeth... It's a weird habit of mine, I can give mental speeches on how you shouldn't wake up so early or how uniform is unnecessary, it can be anything when you're imaginative like Inaya.
With my casual sweatshirt, light makeup (my definition of makeup is moisturizer, lipstick which acts as a blush as well) and hair gathered in a loose bun, I step outside my room.
Rise and shine nayaa!! What a lovely day to wake up to.
Before begining my day, I gently pull out a piece of card from my bag and read it heartily.
Hey hazel.
Yeah yeah stop smiling with that unseen dimple... I don't wish to see it all but yeah just let me see it enough that my eyes may survive. *Wink*
Letter number 44 is about healing your overthinking insecurity itself.
Knowing you might worry about overthinking everytime.. especially when you're starting your day so I just wanna give you some advice that think how handsome of a boy is crazy after you.
Hazel you're so gentle hearted but you deserve to be gentle to yourself as well. So, let me ask you this: can you imagine how lucky I feel to have your laughter, your kindness, your strength in my life? Even on days when you're buried under doubt, even when you think you're 'too much,' I'm still here. In fact, that's why I'm hereâbecause there's a girl with a spirit so bright, she lights up my world even through her uncertainties.
Let yourself breathe today. Let yourself just be. Whenever overthinking clouds your mind, remember that this crazy guy right here thinks you're worth every thought in the world.
My jaw physically pains as I've been smiling uncontrollably. It's one of those 50 letters of assurances Ayan wrote for me each one an assurance for every worry, every insecurity I've ever had. There's a note for every wild thought that has ever crossed my mindâwhether I'm overthinking about my looks, worrying I wonât be able to win something, or even fearing that I come off as immature.
It's overwhelming. I never thought that someone like him could be mine. Ayan, the notorious flirt, the ultimate playboy with his endless charmâhe's everything I'd never envisioned as a partner. But he's also everything I'd never known I needed. Better than any of those ideas I had about "the perfect guy." He sees me, knows me, and somehow...loves me through it all.
I'm lost in my thoughts when, suddenly, I feel myself being lifted off the ground. A startled gasp escapes, my hands flying to my mouth, and I find myself looking down into Ayanâs mischief-filled eyes.
"Ayan!" I shriek, half laughing, half panicking as he picks me up bridal style.
He smirks, clearly enjoying my shock. "Thought you were too lazy to walk down the stairs yourself, so I figured I'd save you the trouble," he teases, giving me that signature grin that melts my heart.
"Ayan, put me down!" I protest, though my smile betrays me.
"Are you sure?" He raises an eyebrow, pretending to consider it, then makes a sudden move as if he's about to drop me. I scream, clutching his shoulders tighter, my heart skipping a beat as I brace myself.
"Don't you dare!" I glare at him, but he only laughs, leaning down until his forehead is almost touching mine.
"Come on, Naya. You should know I'd never let you fall," he murmurs, his voice softer now, his gaze holding mine.
My heart melts, my laughter turning into a shy smile. He knows just how to tease me until I'm half-scared and half-delighted, but I also know that no matter what, Ayan's arms are a safe place.
Drawing me closer, he walks downstairs with ease, making it feel as if I weigh nothing. "Ayan there are people downstairs!!!" Although the people are those who knows about us yet that doesn't justify us being shameless... sorry let me rectify my mistake.... Him being shameless.
"I'm aware" he nonchalantly utters while stepping downstairs with low steps, with no doubt he's the most shameless person you'll ever see.
As we reach the bottom, Hoorain clasps her hands together, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Oh my god, this is adorable! I feel like I'm watching a romance movie,"'she coos, looking at us as if we're the cutest couple on Earth.
Maha laughs, rolling her eyes. "Okay, but if this was a movie, I'd be rooting for the girl to snap out of it and walk on her own two feet," she teases. "Come on, Inaya, put him in his place!"
Rayan sighs and continue having his breakfast, he appears as if he's done with all the nonsense going around him.
Ayra, meanwhile, crosses her arms and pulls a face. "I'm cringing over here," she mutters, though the hint of a smirk betrays her.
"I'm her man guys!!! Besides Naya sometimes I think she's more into you with the way she's jealous of me" Ayan rants as I bite my lips to surpress my laughter.
Ayra sarcastically laughs, "oh why would I be jealous of you? At least I definitely know that I'll be at her wedding while you still aren't confirmed."
Atta girl!
Not that I don't want to marry Ayan, I'd love to be his bride but it's always girls over boys.
Ayan rolls his eyes with a grin, I'm hundred percent certain that he knows he can't ever win an argument with Ayra.
Zaid pulls out his phone with a sly grin. "Smile for the camera, lovebirds. Just repaying you for all those 'candid' shots you took of me." He clicks the picture just as Ayan strikes a dramatic pose, still holding me securely, leaning back like he's showing me off.
"Oh, you're welcome," Ayan says, chuckling. "I look great from every angle." He winks at Zaid, then lowers his gaze back to me, eyes warm. "Now, tell me you're not completely swept off your feet."
I narrow my eyes, unable to keep the smile from my face. "Fine, I'll admit it," I say quietly. "But only this once."
He grins, satisfied. "Good. That's all I needed to hear."
Ayan finally sets me down, but not without giving me a playful little dip as if we're dancing, his grin never fading. Just as I steady myself, I hear footsteps and turn to see Ahad bhai walking over with that familiar, easy smile of his.
"Here," he says, pulling out a small box of my favorite chocolates. I light up instantly.
"For me?" I ask, probably sounding way too excited, but I can't help it.
"Of course" he says with a warm chuckle, ruffling my hair like a real older brother would. "Can't have my little sister starting her day without these. Also, it's either this or listening to you complain about the lack of decent chocolate for the rest of the trip."
I laugh, tearing open the box, and I can feel Ayan's amused gaze on me as I pop a chocolate into my mouth. "You're the best Ahad Bhai" I say around a mouthful, and he just gives me a look that says, you're hopeless. My real brother is just a burden on this planet, while Ahad Bhai is the definition of a brother.
"Alright, alright," Ayan interrupts, crossing his arms with a mischievous smirk. "Now that the chocolate crisis has been averted, can we move on to the next surprise?"
"What surprise?" Hoorain asks, raising an eyebrow suspiciously while Ahad Bhai is just staring at her like she's the only person in existence, he's so whipped.
With perfect timing, a loud honk echoes from the driveway, and we all turn to see a shiny mini-van parked out front. Ayan grins as he gestures to it, eyes twinkling with excitement. "Surprise, ladies! We're ditching the villa and going on a proper road trip!"
Our reactions are instant and hilarious. Ayra gasps "we're leaving this villa? Do you know how much effort I put into booking this?"
Maha, on the other hand, is practically bouncing with excitement. "YES! I knew this was going to be the best trip ever. Road trip vibes, everyone!"
Rayan narrows his eyes, looking at the van like it's suspicious. "I wonder if this poor vehicle would be safe if this crazy girl travels in it"
"Aww I don't know about the van but you should definitely worry about yourself rhino" Maha nudges Rayan and I bet his ears heats up... Yeah Naya time for your cupid role again I guess.
Ayra steps backwards examining the car but then her fragile body hits Zaid, he holds her by her shoulders and utters, "kab chalna seekhogi?"
(When will you learn walking?)
She frees herself, "jab Tum sambhalna chordoge"
(Whenever you'll stop handling me)
Zaid pokes his tongue on his cheeks indicating how he's trying not to smile.
Damnnn!!! Are our enemies finally becoming lovers ohhh my poor heartt.
Ayan forwards his hand for me, "shall we begin this journey ma'am?"
Without wantage of a sec, I take a hold of his awaiting hand, "definitely."
I settle into my seat, glancing around the van as we kick off on this incredible journey, already feeling the buzz in the air. Ahad Bhai is at the wheel, looking as serious as ever, but there's a hint of a smile on his face as he stares at Hoorain through the rearview mirror. And, honestly, this van? It's perfect. An eight-seater with enough room to stretch a bit, pass snacks, and, most importantly, set up mini "crime scenes" for Ayan and me to prank everyone.
The scenery outside is breathtakingâmajestic mountains rising high with their peaks dusted in white, flanked by tall, green pines and blanketed by misty clouds. Sunlight filters through every now and then, casting a golden glow over the slopes. The winding road feels endless, and there's just something about it, something about the freedom of being out here with all my favorite people, that makes my heart feel like it could burst.
I catch Ayan's eye across the van, and he raises an eyebrow, mischief written all over his face. He's the only one here as chaotic as I am, and together, we're the ultimate crime duo. I subtly gesture towards Zaid, who's sitting obliviously, headphones on, already dozing off. A silent plan forms, and before I know it, Ayan has snatched a marker from his bag and is crawling (oh-so-stealthily) across the seat.
Inaya catches what we're doing and raises a hand to her mouth, trying not to laugh. Meanwhile, Rayan is completely engrossed in some motivational article on his phone, blissfully unaware. Boring as always.
Ayan finishes his "masterpiece" on Zaid's cheekâa little mustache and monocleâand retreats back to his seat, exchanging a silent high-five with me as we both struggle not to burst into laughter. Just then, Ahad glances in the rearview mirror, smirking.
Ayra finally giving in to the urge to laugh, even though she admits to hate Ayan but I doubt he'll become her favorite after this stunt.
"Are you two troublemakers done?" Hoorain asks, barely containing her own grin.
"Us? Trouble?" I put on my best innocent face, batting my lashes. "Never."
The music is cranked up, and Ayra takes over the aux cord, switching through songs as we belt out the lyrics at the top of our lungs. It doesn't matter if we're out of tuneâthis is our van, and out here, every note sounds perfect. We take turns leaning out the windows, letting the cold mountain air whip through our hair, laughing as it chills our faces and brings tears to our eyes.
Inaya is snapping pictures, Ayan's got his arm around her, and I can see she's in her own world, feeling like she's living out her ultimate Pinterest board. Hoorain's busy sharing some fun facts about the mountains with Ahad, who listens with half a smirk, nodding and giving her his full attention along with driving.
The hours blend together as we tell stories, play games, and steal each other's snacks. The vibe in this van is unmatchedâfull of laughter, inside jokes, and that rare sense of pure, chaotic joy that you only feel when youâre with people who completely get you.
A few hours in, Ayan decides it's time for another prank, nudging me. "Maha, itâs showtime."
I grin, slipping down to the floor so I can army-crawl my way toward Rayan, who's occupied trying to untangle a mess of earbuds. Carefully, I tie his shoelaces together, then dart back to my seat before he even notices.
A few minutes later, he tries to stand up, only to nearly trip, and everyone erupts into laughter. "Uhh Maha tell me what have I done to you!" He groans, realizing immediately who's responsible.
"Haha bro you're dating her and..." Ayan laughs, holding up his hands in mock innocence. However Rayan glares at him like he's daring him to finish the sentence, I do wish to know what it is but again aag Lage basti mein, Maha apni masti mein.
Just as I'm catching my breath from the prank on Rayan, Inaya's phone starts ringing. She glances down, and her face goes pale. "It's⦠my dad."
Without missing a beat, the girls' eyes light up, and we all immediately swarm around her. Hoor winks at me, and we're already leaning in, ready to create a full-blown disaster.
As soon as Inaya picks up, we start. Ayra deepens her voice in the worst "macho guy" impression ever. "Heyyy, baby⦠what's up? Long time, no kissy noises, huh?" she whispers loud enough for Inayaâs dad to hear.
Inaya swats at her, but she's holding back laughter, trying to sound normal. "H-hi, Dad!" she manages, though her voice is shaking with giggles.
Before she can even get a full sentence out, I jump in, going full Bollywood style. "Arrey, jaanu, cigarette peelo na⦠daru bhi peelo! Sab kuch milke peelo!" I say in an exaggerated drawl, my hand cupped over my mouth like a phone. Inaya smacks my arm, red-faced, biting her lip to keep from laughing.
(Oh baby come puff a cigarette or drink alcohol)
Hoorain and I share a look, and she steps it up even further. "Baby, bolo na Papa ji ko join karne, hamara kya hai!" she says, loudly smooching the air and winking at Inaya. I think she's about to faint, trying so hard to keep it together.
(Baby ask father to join as well)
At this point, Inaya's completely lost it, laughing uncontrollably while still on the phone. "D-dad⦠will call you later" she manages to wheeze out, wiping tears from her eyes.
Meanwhile, the boys are watching us in utter shock. Ahad Bhai's jaw has dropped, Rayan's staring like we've all gone insane, and Ayan just mutters, "This⦠this is what happens when girls go on road trips?"
Finally, Inaya manages to hang up, nearly collapsing from laughter as she drops her phone. We're all clutching our sides, totally in stitches, while she tries to catch her breath.
She glares at us between laughs. "You guys are literally the worst! My dad is going to think I'm running a nightclub out here!"
Ayan, who still hasn't figured out what's going on, just raises an eyebrow and smirks. "You girls are so fun"
Ahad bhai, shaking his head, says, "I have to admit⦠I didn't think girls could be this chaotic."
"Oh, you have no idea," I say, grinning as we settle back in our seats. The van rolls on, the mountains stretching endlessly around us, and the laughter carries through the air, blending with the hum of the road. This might just be the best days of my life.
I wake up with a yawn, rubbing my eyes as I stretch. My headphones are still on, and Jo Tum Mere Ho by Anuv Jain is playing softly in my ears. The fields outside are a vibrant blur of green, stretching out for miles under a cloudless blue sky. I actually have to take a second to breathe it all in, feeling... oddly peaceful.
But as I turn to look around the van, I realize something's off. Everyone is watching meâlike really watching meâwith these weird, stifled grins. I raise an eyebrow. "What's wrong with you guys?"
Ayra's biting her lip, trying way too hard to hold back a laugh, and it's making me even more suspicious. "Is something on my face?" When none of them replies, I'm sure something is off, I pull out my phone and switch to the camera, flipping it to the front viewâand freeze. I've got a thick, crooked mustache drawn in black marker all across my upper lip.
"What the hell, guys?!" I yell, glaring around as everyone bursts out laughing. Maha is nearly choking, clutching her stomach as she gasps for air, and Ayan's actually slapping his knee like it's the funniest thing he's ever seen. Hoor is trying to be polite by not laughing that hard, Ahad is busy driving, Rayan is probably not interested and Inaya is busy texting.
Ayra's laughing the hardest, her head tilted back, eyes shut as her whole face lights up. It's the first time I've seen her genuinely laugh like thisâno sarcasm, no smirk, just pure, real laughter. And somehow, I find myself staring, watching the way she laughs with her eyes shut, like she's lost in the moment. My heart actually does this weird skip thing, and before I know it, my fingers are fumbling with my phone, capturing a quick, secret photo of her.
She catches me staring and quirks an eyebrow, still grinning. "Zaid not a fan of this new moustache look?"
I narrow my eyes at her. "At least I'm still good-looking unlike you"
She snorts, rolling her eyes. "Admit it you look hideous"
"Oh, I'll admit one thing," I retort, leaning back with a smirk. "Hideous or not still your fiance" I throw in the jab just to get under her skin, but she only laughs harder, tossing her hair over her shoulder in that annoyingly confident way she always does.
After the laughter finally dies down, I lean against the window, the sunlight bouncing off the fields outside. I glance down at my phone, Ayra's laughing face now saved on my home screen, but hidden behind the lock screen. No one else will ever see it. Just me.
I feel a smile tugging at my lips as I take in the picture again, but quickly shake it off, closing my phone and focusing back on the scenery outside. I don't even know why I took it. She"s my enemy, my rival, the last person I'dâ
Nope. Not even going there.
(â à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹â )
Ahad slows the van to a stop, and we all pile out to stretch our legs, feeling the crisp mountain breeze. But before we can take in much more, Inaya gasps. "Look!"
We turn, and there's a full-blown baraat down the road, the whole crowd dressed in vibrant Rajasthani colorsâlehengas, turbans, the works. It's dazzling. There's a horse-drawn carriage, dancers with swirling skirts, and a dhol drummer with enough rhythm to start a riot.
It's my first time observing an Indian wedding in our city, and I must say the rituals are beautiful. Maybe the people residing here are from India Rajasthan.
The entire group is mesmerized, but of course, itâs Maha who breaks the silence first.
"Let's crash it!" she says, eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Are you out of your mind?" Rayan mutters under his breath, already looking like he's preparing to run for cover. "We can't just crash someone's wedding! Thatâs insane!"
But Maha isn't one to back down. "Why not? Look at it! Itâs a baraat! Do you know how much fun it would be? We can dance, eat the food, join in on the celebrations! I've seen it on reels Rajasthani weddings are to die for, we are getting to experience the culture here in our city"
"Yeah Maha but we can't just invade in someone's privacy" Ahad advises and it actually makes sense, but judging by the way the girls are watching the baraat, they are going there no matter how much we try to convince them.
"Leave the boys let's go!"
"If you guys are going then I'll definitely go"
"Uhh you guys are always UpTo something! Fine let's go"
"Love you girls" Maha exclaims and starts marching towards the baraat.
"Hey wait for me I'm coming" Ayan chimes in along with Ahad, whipped guys are never letting their girls go alone. Rayan rolls his eyes and I feel like he'll step back in the van however, he goes on with them.
We start walking towards the baraat like it's the most natural thing in the world, as if we haven't been arguing for the past five minutes. The music is louder now, and the beat of the dhol seems to pull us along.
As we step into the crowd, the girls are already fully absorbed in the festivities, with Hoorain's eyes wide in awe at the folk dancers. "This is incredible!" she whispers, her hand clutching mine as she watches a group spin in sync, their colorful skirts billowing out in the air.
Inaya, who's more reserved, can't hide her excitement. "Look at the vibrancy, the energyâthis is nothing like anything Iâve ever seen!" Her gaze shifts to the groom on the horse-drawn carriage, and she raises an eyebrow. "I wonder if we can get the exact same lehengas"
"Focus, Naya," Maha says, chuckling at her curiosity.
Ayra, meanwhile, is practically glowing. "This is real culture, guys! The food, the music, the traditionâif they offer us any sweets, I swear to God, I will die happy."
"Are we seriously doing this?" Rayan mutters to no one in particular, as if he's resigned to his fate. "I mean, who am I kidding? Iâll probably end up dancing with them and looking like an idiot."
"Shut up boys if Hoor wants it y'all are doing it. No arguments"
â¯â¯â¯â¯
WEDDING AESTHETICS
â¯â¯â¯â¯
The dhol beats pulse through my veins as we weave through the crowd, the rhythm tugging us further along with the baraat until, before I even realize it, we've arrived at the venue.
I blink, taking in the scene before me, and my breath catches in my throat.
It's⦠majestic. Set up like a palace courtyard straight out of a fairytale, everything is drenched in hues of red, gold, and emerald green. Marigold garlands hang from intricately carved arches, their vivid orange and yellow petals contrasting against deep red drapes that cascade from tent poles. Twinkling fairy lights wrap around towering pillars, bathing everything in a warm, inviting glow. An enormous chandelier dangles above the main aisle, shimmering like a million tiny stars.
Massive flower arrangements flank every corner, each one more elaborate than the lastâroses, lilies, and jasmine woven together in perfect harmony. There are silk cushions scattered around low tables with ornate golden trays filled with sweets, from gulab jamuns to laddoos, their rich scents mixing with the aroma of sandalwood incense. Iâm practically drooling.
"This looks⦠heavenly," I breathe out, wide-eyed, completely enchanted. It's like stepping into a storybook, one where every detail screams royalty.
"Uh, Mahaâ¦" Rayan says, tugging at my sleeve. "Are you aware we've basically walked into a millionaire's wedding?"
I glance over to find the guys exchanging wary glances, clearly sensing they've wandered far outside their comfort zones.
"Wait, this might actually be illegal," Zaid mutters, glancing around like a guilty trespasser.
"Oh, please," I scoff, though I canât help but grin. "It's a baraat, not the Queen's palace. No one's going to throw us in jail for, you know⦠appreciating their decorations."
Ayan raises a brow, smirking. "Right, because thatâs exactly how it works. We stroll into a wedding looking like random wedding crashers, and they'll just say, 'Welcome! Grab some sweets!"
"They might, actually," Ayra quips, nudging him. "Look at this setupâthese people are clearly rich. They're probably used to strangers."
"But there should be a plan I mean what are we going to do here?" Hoorain suggests as Ahad stands beside her.
Rayan sighs, rubbing his temples as if heâs reconsidering every life choice that led him here. "This is insane. We're at a wedding that isn't even ours. Someone's going to notice the random group of strangers in jeans."
"Nice point rhino" I argue, gesturing at the sheer magic of it all. "We're going to get dresses first!"
A few skeptical eyebrows shoot up, but no one really protests as I march off to the edge of the tent, eyeing the racks of colorful outfits hanging there. Some must be spares for guests, or maybe theyâre left behind by people who got a little too enthusiastic on the dance floor. Either way, they're ours now.
"Okay, everybody grab something that looks⦠traditional," I declare, rummaging through the racks with purpose. My hands land on a stunning emerald-green lehenga choli with intricate golden embroidery, and I'm almost tempted to squeal. "This one's mine!"
Zaid narrows his eyes, holding up a black kurta with sequins. "What am I even supposed to do with this?"
Ayra snatches it from him, grinning. "Ofcourse you're wearing it, obviously issue Zoro ko to nahi doge na"
Thankfully the tent had a section covered where we could change into our dresses, the owner is a really thoughtful person. Zaid is the first one to slip into his Kurta.
Ayan, meanwhile, is already draping a white turban over his head and admiring himself in an imaginary mirror. "Well, if I'm going to crash a wedding, I might as well look like the life of the party." He throws a finger-gun Inaya's way. "Thoughts Naya?"
"Yeah yeah you're looking good"
"You look like a dhol drummer who lost his way," Rayan deadpans, holding up a dark green kurta and eyeing it like it's toxic.
"Oh, come on!" I clap my hands together, practically bouncing. "Live a little, Rayan. Just put it on!"
Rayan shoots me a look of pure agony but, under the onslaught of my enthusiastic pep talk and Ayra's relentless nudging, finally resigns himself to the mustard-yellow fate. And, not that I'd ever admit it to his face, but he actually looks⦠kind of perfect.
Inaya's found herself a peach-colored lehenga that's about two sizes too big, but she ties it tightly at the waist and grins. "Honestly, this is the most insane thing we've ever done," she says, twirling once, the skirt swishing around her.
Hoorain emerges from behind the rack wearing a deep blue choli, looking every bit like she's stepped out of a Rajasthani dream. She's beaming, though her expression turns skeptical as she catches sight of Ahad, who's frowning at a blue kurta as if it's personally offended him.
"This? No way. I'd rather stay in jeans," he mutters.
But one exasperated eye-roll from Hoorain later, Ahad grumbles his way into the kurta, ofcourse he'll do anything Hoor asks him to. His expression is priceless.
Once we're all finally dressed, turbans, and flowing lehengas that don't quite fitâit's clear we look like the strangest, most awkwardly coordinated baraat guests ever.
I smooth out my lehenga, grinning at our collective transformation. "See? We totally blend in."
"Oh, we blend in, all right," Rayan mutters, still tugging at his ill-fitted kurta sleeves. "Like a group of clowns crashing a royal wedding."
"We look fabulous," Ayra corrects, sashaying past him with a twirl of her sequined dupatta. "We're not just crashing this wedding. We're about to steal the show."
As soon as we step back into the wedding venue, it's like we're swept into a world where time slows down and all that exists is music, laughter, and the smell of rich spices drifting through the air.
Ayan holds the hand of Inaya and twirls her around, their laughter is contagious... Inayan is my favorite couple after Ahara.
Meanwhile our Zayra are also dancing... Yes! The finances are finally getting the hang of their relationship, this is the best of my life.
"Maha, no. Absolutely not."
"Yes!" I laugh, refusing to let go.
"Come on, Rayan! When else are you going to have the chance to crash a wedding and dance like no oneâs watching?"
"I'll have you know that my entire life is built around people watching," he mutters, but I see his eyes light up despite himself. I tug harder, and he finally, finally, gives in, letting out a groan thatâs far too dramatic.
Rayan moves awkwardly at first, his limbs stiff, but the crowd cheers louder, egging him on. And then it's like something just⦠clicks. He loosens up, letting the beat of the dhol take over, and his movements smooth out as he starts to actually have fun with it. I don't even realize I'm grinning like an idiot, thrilled that he's finally letting go.
Just then, an elderly auntie in a bright green sari pulls Rayan and me closer, laughing as she shows us the steps to an intricate Rajasthani dance. The entire crowd cheers us on, clapping to the beat as Rayan tries to keep up with the auntie's moves, looking utterly out of place and yet surprisingly natural all at once.
"Rayan ab Pagal to hu mein, chor to nahi doge?"
"Yakeen karo Maha Tumse bara Pagal hu, chahu bhi to nahi chor sakunga"
Before I can blush Ayan, ever the spotlight hog, jumps in beside us, grabbing an empty dhol and pretending to play along. Zaid sighs dramatically, trying to hide his amusement, while Ayra eggs him on, clapping and shouting, "it's not algebra that he can ace it"
By the time the dancing finally slows down, we're all breathless, laughing so hard that our sides hurt.
It's just us, a bunch of friends who somehow crashed a wedding on a road trip, celebrating life together like itâs our own special moment.
And honestly, I wouldn't trade this memory for anything.
I'm wandering off from the bustling crowd, looking for a quiet corner to take a breather, when I catch sight of Ahad. My steps falter. There he is, leaning casually against a pillar, talking to a girl who, in all honesty, looks like she's stepped out of a fairytale. She has these long, flowing curls and an effortless grace that blends perfectly with the lavish surroundings. And Ahadâhe's smiling.
A pang of something strange twists in my stomach, and I find myself glaring at the girl, wondering why she deserves that smile. I feel my cheeks warm as I quickly look away, unable to shake off this irritation. Or is it jealousy? I try to shrug it off, but the feeling lingers, gnawing at me.
Suddenly, Zaid appears at my side, following my gaze. He chuckles, crossing his arms. "Maybe your boyfriend needs a dose of his own medicine."
I blink, caught off guard. "Sorry?"
He shrugs, looking far too pleased with himself. "I don't usually help people with this kind of stuff, but you're sweet. Can't let you sulk here alone."
I raise an eyebrow, crossing my arms as I glance at him. "Are you⦠trying to flirt with me?"
Zaid gasps, putting a hand to his heart as if deeply offended. "Flirt with you? Please, I am thankfully engaged, madam." He grins, his eyes twinkling. "Besides, it's my duty as your jiju."
I laugh, rolling my eyes. "Alright, alright, then what exactly are you suggesting, jiju?"
Zaid smirks, glancing back at Ahad and his new friend. "Well, he's clearly having a great time. So how about we make this road trip a little more⦠interesting? Let them stew for a while."
I give him a skeptical look. "And we do that⦠how?"
Zaid tilts his head, his grin growing even wider. "Simple. We make them a little jealous. Let's act like we're having the time of our lives without them. Nothing big, just enough to catch their attention."
I feel a spark of excitement. I can't deny there's a certain thrill to the idea. "Alright, let's do it. But if Ahad gets all grumpy, that's on you."
"Oh, I wouldn't dream of blaming anyone else," Zaid says, pretending to look insulted. "Now, Hoorain, shall we? I think the best way to begin is with an elaborate display of laughter right as we walk past Ahad."
"Should we reallyâ?"
"Yes," he interrupts, tugging me toward the dance floor. "Trust me, this is the best kind of fun. Now, laugh like I just said the most hilarious thing you've ever heard."
I let out a giggle, which quickly turns into real laughter when I see the dramatic way Zaid throws his head back and chuckles, making a big show of it. We stroll past Ahad, not sparing him a glance, and I catch sight of him watching us, eyebrows raised.
When we're far enough, Zaid leans close, whispering conspiratorially, "See? That look. Mission accomplished."
I try not to grin too much. "What now? I thought Ayan was the only one to do such things but you"
"Now, we just keep enjoying ourselves," he says. "Besides I can't let my bhabhi get jealous"
It's not long before Ahad finally strolls over, his eyes narrowing slightly as he glances between Zaid and me. "Enjoying yourself?"
Zaid grins, his arm still around my shoulder. "Oh, we're having a fantastic time, arenât we, Hoorain?"
I nod, biting back a smirk. "Absolutely"
Ahad shoots Zaid a look thatâs both annoyed and suspicious, and I can see the faintest hint of a challenge in his eyes. My heart flutters a little at that, and I can barely contain my amusement as I look back at Zaid.
"Hands off of my girl right now Zaid" Ahad affirms in a deadly voice, woops! Seems like I woke his jealous side again.
Zaid smirks, giving me one last exaggerated wink. "And that Hoorain, is a job well done." He claps Ahad on the shoulder with a victorious grin before strolling off, leaving us alone. I can already feel the amused glances of the others nearby as Ahad turns his full attention to me.
But I cross my arms, pretending to be unfazed. "Why bother coming over here now? You seemed to be having a great time with your new friend." I raise an eyebrow, feigning disinterest, though my heart is pounding from his intense gaze.
Ahad chuckles softly, his eyes twinkling with that all-too-familiar mischievous glint. "Meri jaan, I was just being polite. She came over to ask me where the buffet was. I promise you, sheâs no competition." He leans in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Besides, why would I be interested in anyone else when you're standing right here?"
I try to keep my cool, but a blush creeps up my cheeks, and I find myself looking away. "You seemed very... enthusiastic for someone giving directions."
He laughs, a low, warm sound that sends a thrill down my spine. "Ok ma'am I won't look at anyone again. Anything else?" He leans in, "so you wanted me to be jealous of Zaid?"
I look away, huffing. "Maybe I did. A little. Just to see how you'd react."
"Mission accomplished then," he murmurs, his tone suddenly softer. His hand reaches out to tuck a stray strand of hair behind my ear, his fingers lingering just a moment too long. "No one compares Hoor, you stand alone"
My heart skips a beat, and I can't help but smile as he pulls me closer, his arms wrapping around me in a warm, possessive embrace. I lean into him, feeling his steady heartbeat under my cheek.
He leans down, pressing a soft kiss to my forehead. "And for the record, no one will ever come between us, Hoorain. Not even your tricks or Zaid's brilliant ideas."
"Good," I mumble, still feigning a bit of annoyance but secretly melting inside. "Because I don't plan on sharing you either."
Just as I'm about to lose myself completely in Ahad's embrace, a sudden, ear-splitting crash jolts us both out of the moment. The entire crowd turns toward the sound, gasping in shock.
I pull back from Ahad, our heads whipping in the direction of the commotion. And there, standing beside a toppled dessert table with broken plates, scattered sweets, and a glorious mess of syrupy gulab jamuns everywhere⦠are Zaid and Ayra.
This entire road trip thing actually turned out to be a stress reliever, I'm glad that we didn't stay limited to a villa and joined the boys for a road trip.
However, crashing a wedding wasn't on my bingo card. Maha looks like it's a wedding of her own family, Ayan and Inaya being the smitten new couple in town don't bother doing anything other than romance. Yeah I'm cringing.
And then suddenly I watch Zaid serving himself some food, ok I can't let him draw him a breath of peace hehe.
"Zaid Kya karrahe ho?" I ask walking a bit closer to him.
(Zaid what are you doing?)
Zaid gives me an annoyed smile, still the same irritating guy "election ki tayari karraha hu... Sath dogi?"
(Getting ready for elections, will you support me?)
"Oh please, even if you begged me, I'd say no," I shoot back with a smirk, grabbing a plate just as he reaches for one. Our fingers accidentally brush, and we both recoil as if burned.
He rolls his eyes, clearly unimpressed. "Trust me, I wouldn't beg. I have standards," he says, loading his plate even more aggressively.
"Oh, standards?" I let out a mock gasp. "Standards set Karne se pehle na apni shakal dekhlete hai"
(You should see your face before setting your standards)
"Dekhi hai na, Alhumdulillah Tumse better hai" he fires back, piling even more food on his plate as if it's a personal challenge.
(I've seen my face and thank God it's better than yours)
I scoff, nudging him. "If you keep eating like this so you'll end up resembling a hot air balloon"
He looks down at his plate, then at me. "As long as I'm still hot I don't care"
"Hot and you?" I laugh, giving him a playful shove.
Our little shove-match escalates quickly, and in the chaos, my elbow accidentally knocks over a plate. Zaid tries to catch it, but in his flailing attempt, he only manages to knock down another plate, which sets off a catastrophic domino effect as dish after dish crashes onto the table, plates tumbling in every direction.
The clattering noise draws a chorus of gasps, and we freeze, eyes widening as we take in the destruction we've caused. The entire squad rushes over, shocked, and to make it worse, the crowd of guests, including the groom and bride, all turn to stare at us in disbelief, looking at us like we're absolute aliens who just gate-crashed the event.
Zaid and I glance at each other, both bursting out, "This is your fault!"
"My fault?" he hisses, pointing a finger. "You're the one who started this whole thing with your annoying questions!"
"Excuse me? You're the one who can't handle a simple plate without causing a landslide!" I snap back, folding my arms.
"WHO ARE THEY? WE DON'T KNOW THEM GUARDS!" some one from the crowd screams.
Inaya nudges me and utters with terrified expressions, "guys I think who did it least of our worries right now" with her eyes she gestures around us.
C'mon Ayra! You're meant to be the problem solver why did I create it this time?
Ahad has his hands wrapped around Hoorain like he's tryna protect her at any cost. Maha and Ayan are trying to hold back a grin; Rayan...well... he's questioning his existence.
The quiet is disrupted by the arrival of guards, with a towering figure leading them... Oh no, they're approaching us.
"What are we supposed to do now?" I whisper.
"You should've thought about it before fighting with me" Zaid mutters.
"God please save us this time" Inaya prays.
"Don't worry Naya nothing will happen, this is fun" Ayan giggles earning a glare from her.
"Are they going to beat us?" Hoorain asks.
"No one can touch you as long as I'm breathing" Ahad Bhai replies, this isn't the time to act romantic.
"Remind me why do I listen to this crazy girl everytime?" Rayan affirms.
"Because you want to" Maha fires back, her voice unbothered "let me handle this"
Oh no we're all dead.. her definition of let me handle is let me worsen things. Under normal circumstances, I'm the one unbothered and trying to beat people but I ain't crazy enough to presume I'll be able to control this situation.
Maha steps forward, her hands firmly planted on her hips, a determined look in her eyes. Rayan stares at her in disbelief, his eyebrows raised, clearly caught off guard by her boldness. "Come na!" She gestures for them to come towards us... Someone please stop this girl.
"Aray come! Do you think we all are afraid just because we crashed this wedding?" The entire crowd gasps and the guards are not bothered by her threats.
"You don't know my friends! Pakad pakad Kay sabko marenge hum log" she ends with a laugh.
"Ready guys?" Ayan asks.
"Ready" Maha replies with her hands fisted in a punch.
"1.. 2.. 3 RUN" all of us yell together but Maha only tightens her position as a boxer.
Rayan picks her up by her waist and runs as she says, "but I can fight with them!"
"Pagal larki mujhse lar Lena abhi Chalo." We all sprint running into action with the guards and some of the baraatis after us.
The scene is utter chaos. Feet pounding the ground, everyone sprints in different directions until Rayan yells, "This way, idiots!" waving us over to the main exit.
Maha is still wriggling in Rayan's grip, shouting over his shoulder, "Put me down! I was about to knock those guards flat!"
"Oh, yeah?" Rayan huffs as he effortlessly keeps running with her in his arms, exactly why he's an athlete "shall we focus on getting out alive"
Zaid, dodging a guard who nearly grabs him, shouts back, "You're going to get us all killed, Maha! Seriously, next time, try using that energy to not attract every guard in the vicinity."
"Oh, please!" Maha calls out, twisting in Rayan's hold just enough to throw a taunting glance at the guards. "Yeah, we're not afraid of youuuu!"
The guards don't seem the least bit deterred; in fact, they're picking up their pace, determined to catch this wild group of intruders.
Inaya, breathless and holding onto Ayan's arm, mutters a desperate, "I swear, if we survive this, I'm going to lock Maha in her room for a month."
Ayan chuckles, clearly enjoying every second. "Are you kidding? This is the most fun I've had all year!"
Ahead of them, Ahad Bhai is leading the way, looking over his shoulder every now and then to make sure Hoorain is keeping up. "Stay close!" he calls out, his protective side shining through.
Hoorain, panicking a little, yelps, "If we get caught, will they really hit us?"
"Nobody's hitting anyone!" I call back confidently, then glances warily at Maha. "But maybe someone should hit herâafter we escape."
Finally, they spot the van just outside the gate. "The van!" Zaid yells, pointing.
"Everyone in, now!" Ahad bhai orders, practically shoving people inside.
Ayan and Zaid leap in first, pulling Hoorain and Inaya after them, while Rayan sets Maha down in the back. As she's climbing in, she pauses to turn around and throw another look at the guards closing in on them.
"Next time, you better be ready for round two!" she shouts with a laugh.
Rayan tugs her in, slams the door, and they peel out of there, the guards yelling and shaking their fists in the background.
As they speed down the road, everyone finally starts catching their breath, the initial panic wearing off. Suddenly, someone snortsâInaya, of all people, as she holds her stomach and tries to stop laughing. Ayan is surely changing her.
"I can't believe⦠Maha actually yelled at them," she gasps between laughs.
Maha grins, punching the air triumphantly. "I was handling it, wasn't I?"
"Handling?" Rayan repeats, still panting. "You were seconds away from getting us all arrested!"
"Admit it, though," Ayan chimes in, leaning back with a wide grin, "that was epic."
Everyone nods but Rayan just joins his hands Infront of Maha, "please next time don't pull such stunts"
Maha shrugs, looking entirely unbothered. "You can't tell me what to do, captain."
"Ofcourse Meri chalti hi kab hai yaha"
Zaid sighs, rubbing his temples with a faint smile. "Why do I hang out with you guys"
"Because you love being an unwanted guest" I spit back.
"Ok ok guys whatever it was... This was fun" Ayan teases, slinging an arm around him.
As we all burst into laughter, the van barrels down the road, our faces flushed from the thrill of the chase, our voices filling the vehicle with pure, chaotic joy. We may have narrowly escaped trouble, but in this moment, none of us would trade it for the world.
(â à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹â )
Hey guys I hope y'all are doing fine and well.
Sooo finally updated a chapter! Share your views regarding today's chapter.
It feels good writing their Chaotic scenes after so long...
To make it clear, this book isn't settled in India... You're free to imagine any country of your liking. It's just I love Rajasthani culture and heritage so much that I wanted to write about it. I didn't explore it much due to the lack of knowledge, I apologize for any mistake.
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