The moment Prisha and Shivansh stepped inside the brightly lit pandal, the air seemed to change. Strings of lights sparkled overhead, the fragrance of marigold and incense mixed into the air, and music echoed from the stage where preparations were in full swing. Within seconds, Shivansh’s office workers rushed toward them, their faces beaming with excitement.

“Hello ma’am, hello sir!” one of them greeted enthusiastically. “I hope aapko yaha aane mein koi problem nahi hui hogi? And this… this is a small party from our side. I hope you like it..especially you, ma’am.”

(I hope you didn’t face any problem coming here?)

Prisha blinked at their warmth, her lips curving into a polite smile. She looked around at the buzzing crowd, the sea of faces moving everywhere, and a strange unease crept into her chest. Her breath shortened slightly.

Shivansh, who stood right beside her, immediately noticed. His sharp eyes softened as he leaned closer and asked quietly, “Kya hua? All okay?”

Her voice was low, almost hesitant, but sincere. “Haan… bas thoda sa nervous ho rahi hoon.