As dawn broke over the palace, the sun drenched the landscape in golden hues, setting the scene for a wedding unlike any other.
People gathered, excitement crackling in the air. When they stepped into the ornate halls, they were met with a spectacle so extraordinary it stole their breath away. Glistening chandeliers hung like jewels from the ceiling, while lush gardens spilled into the grand ballroom, merging nature's beauty with human craftsmanship. Everything felt surreal, as if the essence of dreams had come to life.
Niya and Reyan entered, their hearts racing and eyes wide with awe. Yet beneath the surface, feelings roiled like a tempest. Why should she be the one at the center of this splendor? Niya thought bitterly, her jealousy simmering just below her carefully composed smile. This wedding should have been mine... Her heart ached at the sight before her. "Prince, it's truly mesmerizing," she murmured to Reyan, masking her tumult with a facade of admiration. "My sister is so lucky."
Reyan's silence spoke volumes as he absorbed the scene. Beautiful? Yes. But this should have been... His voice trailed off in his mind, thoughts spiraling into memories of a time lost. He shifted his gaze toward the newlyweds, desperately battling the disquiet within.
At last, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived—the bride and groom entered, and a hush fell over the crowd. Gasping whispers echoed through the hall as all eyes turned toward them. They were a vision of ethereal beauty, dressed in elegant garments that glinted like the stars scattered across an endless sky as if they were plucked straight from a fairytale.
And then there was Pari. As Reyan's gaze fell upon her, time seemed to slow. She radiated a breathtaking beauty, an exquisite blend of grace and strength. She truly is enchanting, he thought, mesmerizingly lost in her presence. A pang of longing shot through him, an aching reminder of the love he wouldn't claim. But she's not mine. The realization cut deep, prompting a bitter sorrow to wash over him. That should be me standing there by her side.
Once the sacred promises were sealed, the celebration erupted into joyous applause. Laughter and music flowed through the halls, creating a symphony of merriment that beckoned everyone to join in. Vibrant decorations lit up the room as tables groaned under the weight of delicious dishes, each a delight to the senses.
Surya, filled with pride, raised a glass to toast his daughter's happiness. But somewhere within that sea of joy, dread began to creep into his heart. Suddenly, a familiar voice pierced through the revelry—sharp and sweet. "Surya!"
Frozen in time, Surya felt the blood drain from his face. No... it can't be. The room spun as Mayank and Reeta also turned, their eyes wide with recognition at the figure approaching. It was Maira, radiant as ever, her presence like a burst of sunlight breaking through clouds.
Reeta's heart raced, a whirlwind of emotions crashing over her. What if he still loves her? jealously surged through her veins as she hesitantly observed her husband.
Mayank stepped forward, a smile brightening his face despite the complexities of their past. There she is... The familiarity of her gaze warmed him.