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The morning of the engagement finally arrived.

I woke up to the soft rays of sunlight filtering through the curtains of my apartment. For a few moments, I remained in bed, staring at the ceiling.

Today was the day.

After four days of anticipation, my friend's engagement was finally here.

Pushing aside my thoughts, I got out of bed and followed my usual routine. I completed my workout, took a refreshing shower, and got ready for the day. Since the ceremony would begin later , I wore a simple white top paired with blue jeans.

The outfit I planned to wear for the engagement—a beautifully embroidered designer gown—was carefully packed in a garment bag. I intended to get ready at my friend's house.

After having breakfast, I picked up the garment bag, grabbed my car keys, and left my apartment.

My friend's house was about seven kilometers away, and the drive was peaceful. As I drove through the city streets, I couldn't help but think about our conversation a few days ago. Her worried voice still lingered in my mind.

About twenty minutes later, I arrived at her house.

The place was buzzing with activity. Family members were rushing around, decorators were making final adjustments, and guests were already beginning to arrive.

As soon as I stepped inside, I spotted my friend.

For a moment, I simply stood there.

She looked stunning in her engagement outfit. The elegant jewelry, carefully styled hair, and subtle makeup enhanced her natural beauty.

When she noticed me, her face immediately lit up.

"Archana!" she exclaimed before walking over and hugging me tightly.

I returned the hug with a smile.

When we pulled away, I looked her up and down.

"You look absolutely beautiful," I said sincerely.

She laughed softly.

"Coming from you, that's a huge compliment."

"I'm serious," I replied. "If your fiancé doesn't fall in love with you, he needs his eyes checked."

She giggled, shaking her head.

"And look at you," she said. "Even in casual clothes, you're making everyone look underdressed."

I rolled my eyes.

"Please. Wait until I'm actually dressed for the engagement."

"That's exactly what I'm afraid of," she teased.

For the first time since arriving, I noticed that she seemed much calmer than she had during our phone call.

Still, there was something hidden behind her smile.

Something she wasn't saying.

Just as I was about to ask her about it, one of her cousins called her from the other side of the room.

She groaned dramatically and rolled her eyes, making me laugh.

"Looks like they won't let the bride-to-be rest for even a minute," I teased.

She let out a helpless sigh before turning toward her cousin.

Before leaving, she looked back at me and smiled warmly.I smiled back.

With a small wave, she walked over to her cousin, who immediately started discussing something about the engagement preparations.Since everyone seemed busy, I decided not to disturb anyone.I picked up the garment bag containing my outfit and headed to the guest room that had been arranged for me.

After closing the door behind me, I placed the garment bag carefully on the bed and unzipped it. Inside was a gorgeous designer gown that I had specially chosen for the occasion. After taking a moment to admire it, I began getting ready.

Nearly an hour passed as I carefully did my makeup, styled my hair, and put on my jewelry. I wanted everything to be perfect. When I finally finished and looked at myself in the mirror, it was almost ten o'clock in the morning.

Taking a deep breath, I gave myself one final look before leaving the room.

As soon as I stepped outside, I carefully made my way downstairs. The house was even more crowded than before. Relatives were busy talking among themselves, children were running around excitedly, and the sound of laughter filled the air.

As I looked around, a familiar face caught my attention.

"Archana!" someone called out.

I turned around and immediately smiled.

"Shivani!"

My other friend walked toward me with a bright smile on her face. We hugged each other warmly before pulling away.

"It's been so long since we met," Shivani said.

"I know," I replied. "Everyone has been busy with their own lives."

We moved to a quieter corner and started talking. We discussed work, old college memories, and how quickly time had passed since we had all last met together.

A few minutes later, our engaged friend joined us.

"Are you two gossiping about me?" she asked suspiciously.

Shivani laughed.

"Of course. What else would we talk about?"

My friend rolled her eyes dramatically while I chuckled.

The three of us spent the next few minutes chatting and teasing each other just like old times. For a moment, it felt as if nothing had changed.

Suddenly, my friend's mother approached us with a gentle smile.

"There you are," she said. "The Pandit ji is calling you. It's time."

My friend's smile immediately turned nervous.

"So soon?" she asked.

Her mother nodded.

"Yes, dear. Everyone is waiting."

For a brief moment, my friend looked anxious.

I gently squeezed her hand.

"You'll be fine," I said softly.

Nisha nodded in agreement.

"Stop worrying. Everything will go perfectly."

A small smile appeared on her face.

"Thank you, both of you."

The three of us exchanged warm smiles.

Then, with Nisha on one side and me on the other, we accompanied her toward the beautifully decorated area where the engagement ceremony was about to begin.

As we walked forward together, the sound of traditional music filled the venue, and all eyes slowly turned toward the bride-to-be.

The engagement ceremony was finally about to begin.

To be continued.....

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