The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the Malhotra mansion. Today was the day of Haldi—the ceremony where the bride and groom were blessed with turmeric paste, showered with love, laughter, and of course, teasing.

Anaya sat at the center of the courtyard, a smile playing on her lips. Her yellow lehenga twirled as she nervously adjusted the dupatta draped over her shoulder. The guests were all in high spirits, but her heart… her heart was caught between the excitement of the celebration and the quiet storm brewing within her.