Chapter 16: “Promises and Celebrations”

(Dhanush–Priyanka Wedding • Veeresh–Poornima's Promise • Narayana–Neha's Growing Bond)

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🎊 Scene: Dhanush & Priyanka’s Wedding Day – Shastri Estate Garden

The garden was transformed into a dream — marigold flowers hung in strings, fairy lights glowed across trees, and the soft scent of sandalwood filled the air. Guests filled the area with laughter, blessings, and festive music.

Dhanush, in a cream sherwani with golden embroidery, looked both nervous and elated. Standing beside him, Veeresh adjusted his brother’s dupatta with a proud grin.

Veeresh:

“You’re officially off the market, bhai.”

Dhanush (smirking):

“Took me long enough, huh?”

Priyanka walked in, dressed in a deep red silk saree with green borders, her eyes seeking Dhanush in the crowd. As soon as their eyes met, the nervousness vanished. There was only warmth.

The wedding rituals began — from the varmala to the seven sacred pheras. The families clapped, laughed, and even shed happy tears.

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🌸 After the Wedding – Quiet Corner of the Garden

Veeresh and Poornima stood under the twinkling lights. She wore a peach maternity gown with a soft dupatta that covered her gently growing bump.

Veeresh (resting his hand on her belly):

“Once our baby comes… we’ll get married. Properly. With every ritual. Every promise.”

Poornima looked up, surprised but moved.

Poornima (softly):

“You still want that? Even now?”

Veeresh:

“More than ever. I want to tie the knot with you — not because we had to. But because I choose you.”

She smiled, eyes misty, resting her head on his shoulder. The fairy lights reflected in her tears of joy.

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💖 Elsewhere in the Garden

Neha sat silently, watching the glowing mandap. Her eyes sparkled in the light of the ceremony, her heart overwhelmed by emotions she could no longer suppress.

Narayana, in a dark blue silk kurta, walked up to her, holding a small plate of her favorite sweet — kaju katli.

Narayana (softly):

“You look stunning tonight, Neha.”

She turned to him, stunned at his sudden compliment.

Neha (blushing, murmured):

“Thanks…”

He sat beside her, quietly offering her the sweet.

Narayana:

“I know… I’ve been distant. But that’s on me. You deserved more than silence. I’m sorry.”

For a moment, they simply sat there, the distance gently beginning to close — not with grand declarations, but with small truths and sincere presence.

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🍼 Meanwhile…

Poornima laughed as Veeresh helped her sit down carefully on a swing decorated with flowers. She winced slightly.

Veeresh:

“Too much standing?”

Poornima (smiling tiredly):

“Baby’s dancing too much.”

Veeresh (placing his palm over her belly):

“That’s my kid! Can’t stay still even in the womb.”

She laughed softly, feeling safe, loved — and finally, complete.

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