💖 Ishita's Perspective

The kiss ended softly, but Rudra didn't pull away completely. His hands stayed firmly wrapped around my waist, keeping me elevated on his feet, and he kept leaning in to steal sweet, lingering pecks from my lips.

Mwah. Mwah.

I giggled softly against his mouth, my hands resting over his broad shoulders as I pulled back just enough to look into his dark, velvety blue eyes.

"Kya baat hai, Mr. Rathor?" I teased, a soft blush spreading beneath the golden haldi on my cheeks. "Aaj kuch zyada hi pyaar aa raha hai mere par?"

"Humein toh hamesha hi aap par pyaar aata hai, Janna," Rudra rumbled softly, his deep baritone dripping with an intensity that never failed to make my knees weak. He leaned in to press another tender peck on the corner of my lips. "Humare paas koi kaam hi nahi hai... aapse pyaar karne ke alawa."

I raised a playful eyebrow, tracing the sharp line of his collarbone over his cream kurta. "Jhoot! Pura empire sambhalte hain aap.

World top businessman hain... bohot kaam hai aapke paas!"

A rare, devastatingly beautiful smile curved on Rudra's lips. He tilted his head, his ocean-blue eyes holding mine with absolute, unshakeable devotion.

"Woh sab toh bas responsibility hai, Ishi," he murmured, his thumb gently caressing the warm skin of my waist. "Humara wajood hai hi isliye ki aapse pyaar kar sake."

My breath hitched slightly at the sheer sincerity in his voice. Even after all these years, the way he looked at me-like I was his entire universe-still made my heart skip a beat.

"Kyun karte hain phir itna pyaar?" I whispered softly, resting my forehead against his, our noses brushing together as the cool water from the tap trickled quietly in the background. "Hmm? Bataiye?"

Rudra let out a soft, low chuckle, his warm breath fanning across my lips. He nuzzled his nose gently against mine, his lips brushing my jawline right over my tiny moles before leaning up to meet my eyes again.

"Kya karoon?" he murmured teasingly, a naughty, loving glint in his eyes. "Kisi aur kaam ke kabil hi nahi chhoda aapne humein... Biwi Ji."

"Accha?!" I gasped playfully, swatting his shoulder lightly while laughing softly against his chest. "Toh sab meri galti hai?"

"Poori ki poori aapki galti hai," Rudra declared smoothly, pulling me even tighter against his heart as he captured my lips once more in a sweet, melting kiss, completely unbothered by the wet turmeric, the spoiled silk, or the chaotic world waiting for us outside.

Rudra didn't care about the bitter taste of the turmeric at all. His warm lips trailed down my cheek, pressing sweet, lingering kisses right over the wet haldi on my skin, tracing a path down to my jawline and stopping right over little moles.

I giggled softly, the ticklish sensation making my shoulders shake against his broad chest as I wrapped my arms tighter around his neck.

"Ru... stop it!" I laughed softly, leaning my head back against his arm. "Yaad hai Veer aur Aditi ki shaadi mein kya hua tha?"

Rudra paused his kisses for a split second, his warm breath fanning against my neck, his ocean-blue eyes looking up at me with a lazy, teasing smolder. "Hmm?"

"Jab humne kisi ko apne baare mein nahi bataya tha," I murmured, a nostalgic smile spreading across my lips as I stroked the soft hair at the back of his head. "Except Veer and Shiv... no one had any idea about us. Hum dono issi tarah secretly room mein milte the."

A low, deep rumble of laughter echoed from Rudra's chest. He nuzzled his face right into the crook of my neck, kissing the golden-painted skin near my collarbone without a second thought.

"I remember," Rudra murmured raspy against my skin, his hands gripping my waist possessively. "You were so terrified that someone would catch us. Every time a door clicked, you would jump out of your skin and hide behind the curtains."

"Aur aap?!" I pulled back slightly, swatting his broad shoulder with a soft gasp. "Aap toh aur bhi zyada reckless the! You used to pull me into empty dressing rooms and lock the doors just like this, completely unbothered if the whole world saw us!"

"Because I didn't care about the world then, Janna," Rudra rumbled softly, his thumb caressing my cheek, smearing the wet yellow paste into an even softer glow against my skin. "And I don't care about the world now. Back then, you were my secret... now, you are my wife, my Queen."

"Aap sach mein crazy hain, Mr. Rathor," I whispered warmly, pressing my forehead against his, our shared laughter filling the quiet, blossom-scented bathroom as the memories of our secret romance melted into the absolute joy of our reality today.

"Chalo," Rudra rumbled softly, his thumb sweeping away a stray drop of yellow near my lip. "Ab aapki yeh haldi hatate hain, warna Shaam ki Mehndi tak aap sach mein aam ras ban jaogi."

I smiled up at him, my heart overflowing with warmth. "You are always my saver, Ru."

"Of course I am," he replied without a beat of hesitation, a faint, proud smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Kiska wajood hai aapke aage aane ka?"

He carefully turned me around so I was facing the broad vanity mirror, his large hands settling on my shoulders. I reached for a mild facial cleanser and turned on the tap, taking charge of washing off the heavy layer of turmeric from my face, eyes, and neck.

Meanwhile, Rudra stood tall behind me, completely focused on the task of untangling my hair. With utmost patience, his long fingers gently worked through the floral hairpins and delicate clips tangled in my dark, wet waves. For a man who could command entire boardrooms with a single word, the incredible gentleness in his hands as he handled my hair always left me breathless.

"Dard ho raha hai?" he asked quietly in the mirror, his ocean-blue eyes locking onto mine as his fingers gently untangled a stubborn knot near my nape.

"Nahi, Patidev... bilkul nahi," I murmured, watching his focused expression through the glass. "Aap itne dhyan se kar rahe hain, dard kaise hoga?"

As the cool water washed away the bright yellow paste from my face, revealing my fresh, glowing skin beneath, Rudra's hands slowly smoothed my untangled, wavy hair over my shoulders. He leaned down slightly from behind, resting his chin right near my shoulder, his gaze fixing on the tiny moles along my jawline reflected in the mirror.

"Flawless," he whispered against my skin, his deep baritone sending a sweet shiver down my spine. "Yellow mango or not... my Queen is always breathtaking."

I turned my head slightly, catching his eye in the mirror with a mischievous smile. "Ab jaldi se fresh ho jaaiye, Mr. Rathor! Mehndi ceremony shuru hone mein zyada waqt nahi bacha hai!"

👑 Rudra's Perspective

I stepped out of the steam-filled bathroom in a fresh towel, my skin completely clean of any turmeric. Ishita went in right after me, but when she stepped out twenty minutes later wrapped in her bathrobe, she was still glowing with a distinct, golden-yellow hue.

She stood in front of the vanity mirror, pouting dramatically at her reflection. "Uff... main toh pehle hi bol rahi thi! Turmeric stain ho gaya hai skin par! Abhi do ghante mein Mehndi artist aane wali hai, main kya karungi?!"

I walked over, drying my dark hair with a towel, stopping right behind her. "Relax, Janna. Tell me what to do."

Ishita turned around, her brown eyes lighting up as she handed me a small jar of customized skin cleanser and a soft cotton pad. "Yeh wala natural cleanser lo. Isko thode se gentle circular motions mein lagao... pehle face par, phir neck aur hands par. Rub mat karna zyada, skin sensitive hai!"

"Got it," I rumbled softly.

I took the jar from her hands, scooped out a small portion of the cooling cleanser onto my fingers, and took a step closer. Bending down to her height, I held her chin gently with my left hand, tilting her face up toward the light.

With absolute care, my right hand moved across her cheekbones. I applied the cooling cream in slow, gentle circular motions, watching her close her eyes comfortably as my thumbs smoothed over her forehead, her delicate nose, and her jawline.

"Soft enough?" I asked quietly, my voice dropping an octave as my fingers lingered near the tiny moles on her neck.

"Hmm... bohot accha lag raha hai," she murmured, her dark lashes resting against her cheeks, her lips curved into a relaxed smile. "Aap toh sach mein professional beautician ban sakte hain, Patidev."

"Don't give me ideas, Biwi Ji. Laksh will lose his mind if I add 'skin care expert' to my calendar," I murmured, making her chuckle softly.

My hands moved down from her jaw, smoothly applying the cleanser along her long, slender neck and down her shoulders.

Next, I took her soft hands in mine, rubbing the soothing cream across her wrists, over her delicate fingers where her blue diamond ring sparkled, and up her arms.

"Dekhiye... yellow stain kam ho raha hai na?" Ishita opened her eyes, looking down at her hands, then up into my eyes with a bright, radiant smile. "Aapne toh magic kar diya!"

"Not magic, Janna," I rumbled, leaning in close to press a soft, lingering kiss right against her temple, my hands still holding her warm, clean wrists. "Just taking care of what belongs to me."

I was just finishing up rubbing the soft cleanser over her left arm when a sharp, respectful knock echoed against the master suite door.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

Ishita instantly froze, her brown eyes widening in slight panic. I didn't even flinch, my hands remaining firm and gentle on her wrist.

"Yes?" I called out in my usual authoritative baritone, not taking my eyes off my wife.

"Sir!" the staff member's voice came through the wooden door. "Siya Ma'am ne kahan hai ki aap dono jaldi ready ho jaiye. Ma'am ko Ishita Ma'am ki help chahiye Mehndi function ki preparations ke liye. Plz jaldi niche bhej dijiye."

Ishita immediately turned her head toward the door, speaking up clearly. "Ji, ok! Unhe boliye main bas paanch minute mein aa rahi hoon!"

"Ji Ma'am, ok," the servant replied, followed by the soft sound of quick footsteps retreating down the carpeted hallway.

The second the hallway went quiet again, Ishita turned back to me with wide, frantic eyes. She wiggled out of my grip, pushing my chest gently. "Chalo, chalo! Hato ab yeh sab! Mujhe ready hone do... Maa wait kar rahi hain!"

I stood my ground, crossing my arms over my chest with a smooth, lazy smirk playing on my lips. "I didn't even stop you, Janna. Although... I easily can."

Ishita stopped dead in her tracks, looking at me with her hands on her hips, a sarcastic smile spreading across her freshly cleansed face. "Hee-hee, very funny, Mr. Rathor! Bada aaye mujhe rokne wale!"

Without giving me another second to tease her or pull her back, she grabbed her designer Mehndi outfit from the bed, spun around on her bare feet, and darted back into the dressing room like a swift, beautiful whirlwind, slamming the door shut before I could even make a move.

I chuckled softly under my breath, shaking my head as I picked up my phone from the nightstand to check the time. The King of Rajasthan had business to attend to, but for now, watching my Queen fuss over her pre-wedding preparations was the only priority that mattered.

I stood near the bed, still shirtless in my tailored dark trousers, running a towel through my damp hair. The dressing room door clicked open, and Ishita stepped out looking like an absolute vision.

She wore a heavy, glittering dusty-mauve saree gown with intricate corset work, her delicate shoulders bare and her sheer dupatta draped gracefully across her waist. On her feet were her sparkling silver heels, her red chooda and diamond mangalsutra catching the warm room lighting.

"Ru..." she called out softly, her hands reaching behind her back as she tried in vain to hook the delicate lace-up back of her corset blouse. "Yeh back hook nahi ho raha hai... help kar dijiye na please?"

My hands stilled on the towel. I slowly dropped it onto the sofa, my ocean-blue eyes scanning her from head to toe.

"Sure, Janna," I rumbled, my voice instantly dropping an octave as I closed the distance between us.

She turned her back to me, holding her dark hair up with one hand. The entire pale expanse of her back was exposed, save for the sheer embroidery of the blouse. I stepped right behind her, my warm, bare chest almost touching her smooth back.

"Aap itne saare heavy sequence wale outfits pehenthi hain, par delicate hooks hamesha mujhse hi fastening karwane padte hain," I murmured softly, my fingers brushing against her warm skin as I found the fine metallic hooks at the base of her waist.

"Aap mere husband hain, toh aap nahi karenge toh kaun karega?" Ishita teased, her voice breathy as my cool fingers touched her lower back. A soft shiver ran through her, making her dark lashes flutter in the mirror opposite us. "Aur vaise bhi... aapka hi haq hai yeh sab karne ka."

My lips curved into a dark, possessive smirk. I fastened the first hook smoothly, my knuckles intentionally caressing the arch of her spine as I moved up to the middle hook near her shoulder blades.

"Haq toh mera poora hai, Biwi Ji," I whispered, leaning down until my chest pressed flush against her back, my warm breath fanning directly over her exposed neck and shoulder. "Par jab aap aise mere samne aati hain... toh mera irada badalne lagta hai."

"Rudra!" she gasped softly, looking at my reflection in the mirror. Her brown eyes locked onto mine, taking in my bare, muscular torso, her cheeks turning a gorgeous shade of pink. "Niche sab wait kar rahe hain... shararat mat kariye! Hooks fastening kijiye jaldi!"

"Main toh bas apna kaam kar raha hoon," I rumbled softly, snapping the final top hook into place

Instead of stepping back, I slid my large hands around her waist, pulling her back tight against my chest. I buried my face in the sweet crook of her neck, my lips pressing a firm, warm kiss right over her skin.

"Aap bohot khoobsurat lag rahi hain, Janna," I whispered against her skin, feeling her heart beating wildly against my forearm.

Ishita let out a sweet, breathless laugh, her hand resting over mine at her waist. "Aur aap bina shirt ke bohot distracting lag rahe hain, Patidev... ab jaye aur shirt peheniye, warna hum dono sach mein late ho jayenge!"

💖 Ishita's Perspective

While I turned to the vanity mirror to work my makeup magic, Rudra stepped into his pristine ivory Indo-Western ensemble. The heavily embroidered jacket with subtle sequins sat effortlessly on his broad shoulders over a delicate shimmery shirt, making him look like absolute royalty. But of course, his phone was tucked between his ear and shoulder as he paced near the balcony glass.

"No, Laksh, push the Eternity merger call to Monday morning," he rumbled into his phone in that smooth CEO voice, his ocean-blue eyes briefly catching mine through the mirror.

"And make sure the board reports are finalized before my flight."

I shook my head with a soft smile, shaking out my voluminous curls into a messy, cascading freestyle that framed my face. I brought out my brushes and blended a sultry, dramatic smoky eyeshadow across my lids, highlighting my brown eyes. To top off the whole look, I applied a slick, glossy mauve lipstick that caught the warm yellow lights of our suite.

I fastened my diamond mangalsutra, let my red chooda fall into place on my forearms, and spun around on my sparkling silver heels.

Rudra was still mid-sentence. "I want the final approval on my desk-"

I didn't wait. I glided right in front of him, blocking his walking path. I folded my hands near my chin, tilted my head, and struck a super dramatic, adorable model pose-complete with a tiny wink and a pout.

Rudra's words completely died in his throat.

His eyes widened slightly as he took in the smoky eyes, the glossy, shimmering lips, and the way the mauve saree-gown clung to every curve of my figure. He fell dead silent, staring down at me like I had just stolen the oxygen right out of his lungs.

"Sir? Hello? Mr. Rathor?" Laksh's voice echoed faintly from the phone speaker.

Rudra didn't even look at the phone screen. Without breaking eye contact with me, he slowly brought the phone to his mouth.

"Laksh. I'll call you later."

He disconnected the call instantly, throwing the expensive phone carelessly onto the leather armchair beside him.

"Kaisi lag rahi hoon, Patidev?" I asked, twirling once so the delicate sequins on my outfit sparkled, my silver anklets tinkling softly. "Model lag rahi hoon na?"

Rudra took a slow, deliberate step toward me, his hand sliding smoothly around my waist to pull me flush against his embroidered jacket. His ocean-blue gaze darkened as it settled on my glossy lips.

"Model?" he murmured, his deep baritone sending a shiver right down my spine. "You look like a sin, Janna. And I'm pretty sure I'm going to get arrested tonight for what I'm thinking right now."

I giggled softly, my hands resting against his chest as I tapped his chin teasingly. "Aah-aah! No touching the lipstick, Mr. Rathor! Isko set hone mein 20 minutes lage hain, kharab mat kijiyega!"

"Challenger set kar rahi ho mere samne?" he whispered, a dangerous, possessive smirk curving his handsome face as he tightened his grip on my waist.

"Haa, challenge hi samajhiye!" I smirked right back, resting my wrists lightly over his shoulders, taking extra care to keep my freshly manicured nails clear of his crisp jacket. "Aap mere makeup ko touch bhi nahi karenge, samjhe? Maa neeche wait kar rahi hain!"

Rudra's eyes flared with that irresistible, dark intensity that always made my pulse race.

"Aapko lagta hai Maa ka darr dikha kar aap mujhe rokk sakti hain, Biwi Ji?"

"Maa ka nahi toh mera darr sahi!" I giggled, stepping back just out of his reach while balancing effortlessly on my heels. I grabbed my matching embellished clutch from the vanity, giving my freestyle curls one final bounce in the mirror. "Chaliye ab, king of Rajasthan. Neeche sab hamara hi wait kar rahe hain."

Rudra let out a heavy, dramatic sigh, adjusting the cuffs of his embroidered jacket. "Rathor Company ke saare board members milkar bhi mujhe aise control nahi kar sakte jitna aap ek second mein kar leti hain."

"Woh toh mera talent hai," I winked, slipping my hand smoothly into his.

Our fingers intertwined naturally-my glittering red chooda resting against his ivory sleeve. The moment we stepped out of the suite and walked down the grand marble hallway toward the royal courtyard, the soft sound of dholaks and laughter floated up to meet us. The afternoon Haldi mess had been completely swept away, replaced by an enchanting fairy-tale setup for the Mehndi ceremony. Fairy lights draped from every archway, fresh jasmine garlands hung from the pillars, and comfortable low seating with velvet cushions was arranged for all the ladies.

As soon as we reached the top of the grand staircase, the whole courtyard seemed to quiet down for a second.

"Look who finally decided to show up!" Ahana called out, pointing toward us while holding a cone of henna in her hand.

"Waah Bhai! Waah Bhabhi! Poore 45 minutes late!" Jay shouted from his seat beside Avni, getting a loud round of applause from Shiv, Veer, and Vardaan.

"Late hone ki wajah toh sabko pata hi hai," Kriti whispered mischievously to Saanvi, both of them giggling behind their dupattas.

I felt a sudden heat rise up my neck, my cheeks turning pink despite my flawless smoky makeup. I tried to pull my hand back from Rudra's grip, but his fingers only tightened possessively around mine, completely unbothered by the teasing. He didn't say a word, just walked down the stairs beside me with that cool, regal aura, holding his head high like the King he is.

Maa stepped forward with a warm smile, taking my other hand. "Aao Ishita, yahan baitho. Main toh kab se tumhara wait kar rahi thi. Mehndi artists aage wale section mein ready hain."

"Ji Maa," I replied sweetly, shooting one last playful 'see-I-told-you' glance at my husband before stepping toward the velvet lounge sofa reserved for the brides and sisters.

The moment my feet touched the courtyard floor, I naturally slipped into my role as the elder bhabhi of the Rathor family. Even with my heavy mauve outfit and glittering chooda, I couldn't just sit still while there were guests to welcome and arrangements to double-check.

I took charge of the main pavilion, guiding the arriving relatives toward their reserved seating areas, making sure the elders had their comfortable bolsters and hot tea, and ensuring the Mehndi artists had everything they needed.

"Bhabhi, aap please baith jaiye!" Ahana pleaded, catching my hand as I was directing the catering staff with fresh glasses of thandai.

"Aapki bhi Mehndi lagni hai!"

"Bas do minute, Ahana," I smiled, adjusting my sparkling net dupatta. "Bua ji ke paas meetha paan nahi pahuchega toh woh gussa ho jayengi. Jay aur Avni ka function hai, koi kami nahi rehni chahiye."

From across the decorated courtyard, I could feel a pair of intense blue eyes following my every move.

Rudra was standing near the grand archway with Ram Papa, Lakhan Chacha, and his friends, holding a glass of juice. He was supposed to be talking about business with Vardaan and Veer, but his focus was entirely on me. Every time I stepped near a slippery marble edge or reached out to help a relative, his jaw would tighten, and his hand would subtly move toward his pocket-ready to step in the second I needed him.

"Ishita beti, idhar aao!" Chotii Bua called out warmly from the central seating area, waving her henna-stained hands. "Pura khandaan sambhal liya tumne, ab aakar apni Mehndi toh lagwao!"

"Ji Bua ji, bas aa rahi hoon," I replied brightly.

As I made my way toward the floral swing where Avni was already getting her intricate bridal henna applied, I crossed paths with Rudra. He smoothly shifted his path to step right into my way, blocking me from the rest of the crowd for a split second behind a massive marigold pillar.

"Aap ek jagah shanti se nahi baith sakti, Janna?" he murmured softly, his voice low and possessive as his eyes scanned my glowing face. "Sabka dhyan rakh rahi hain, par apna nahi."

"Main bilkul theek hoon, Patidev," I giggled softly, leaning in just enough so only he could hear me. "Ghar ki badi bahu hoon, thodi responsibility toh banti hai na? Aur waise bhi... aap hain na mera dhyan rakhne ke liye."

Rudra's lips curved into a subtle, melting smile, his fingers brushing against mine just for a fleeting second under the drape of my dupatta. "Hamesha."

"Ab jaiye mujhe meri Mehndi lagwani hai!" I whispered, giving his hand a soft squeeze before gliding over to the ladies' section, leaving the Prince of Rajasthan standing there, completely enchanted by his Queen.

I walked over to the royal crimson velvet lounge sofa and sat down right beside Reet, taking a deep, satisfied breath.

"Finally, the Queen has arrived at her throne!" Reet teased with a warm laugh, carefully turning her hands so her own fresh, wet henna wouldn't smudge against her gorgeous designer outfit. "I thought you were going to handle the entire event management single-handedly today, Ishu!"

"What else can I do, Reet?" I smiled, softly tossing my thick, wavy hair over my right shoulder so the freestyle curls wouldn't fall into my face once the intricate dark paste touched my skin. "If I don't look after the elders and guests, Maa and Chachi will be running around all evening."

I gently gathered my heavy red chooda and pushed the glittering bangles high up onto my forearms, securing them tightly above my wrists so my plan and forearm completely clear for the artist.

"Didi!" Saanvi and Kriti came rushing over, practically bouncing on their heels, holding up their palms to showcase their detailed, dark green henna patterns that reached up to their elbows.

"Look at ours!" Kriti beamed proudly, turning her hands back and forth in front of me. "Saanvi got traditional peacocks, and I got intricate royal mandalas!"

"Aww, look at both of my baby sisters! These designs are absolutely gorgeous on you two," I praised, admiring the fine craftsmanship. I narrowed my eyes playfully at them. "Did you two make sure to eat something before getting your hands occupied? Don't tell me you've been running around hungry!"

"Jiju already took care of that!" Saanvi giggled, blushing slightly under her breath. "Before we even sat down with the artists, Jiju literally ordered Laksh Bhaiya to get fresh mocktails and snacks for us."

My heart did a sweet, familiar flutter at her words. Of course he did. My cold, ruthless CEO husband, who barely spared a second glance for the rest of the world, never missed a single detail when it came to taking care of my family.

"Speaking of your husband..." Reet nudged my shoulder gently, leaning in close with a wicked grin. "He hasn't looked away from you for even a fraction of a second since you sat down, Ishu."

I glanced across the sparkling courtyard toward the arched doorway. True to Reet's words, Rudra was leaning casually against a grand marble pillar, looking impossibly sharp in his ivory embroidered jacket. He had his glass in one hand, completely ignoring the chatter of the business associates around him, his ocean-blue eyes locked directly onto me with an intense, unwavering focus.

When our eyes met through the golden warm glow of the fairy lights, the corner of his lips tugged upward into a faint, possessive smirk. He slowly raised his glass in my direction-a quiet, private toast meant only for his Queen.

A bright blush crept onto my face as the head lead artist stepped forward, unbuttoning her henna cone kit.

"Ma'am, should we begin with your bridal pattern?" the artist asked politely, opening a velvet board of intricate bridal designs.

"Yes, please," I replied warmly, settling back against the velvet bolsters while keeping my gaze fixed on my husband across the room. "And make sure to leave a hidden spot on my right palm... my husband is going to spend all night searching for his name."

Two skilled Mehndi artists sat on small velvet stools right in front of me, uncapping their fresh henna cones and carefully steadying my hands on plush silk cushions.

"Ma'am, which style would you like to go with?" the lead artist asked softly, showing me a catalog of heavy, wrist-to-elbow royal bridal patterns.

"Please keep it elegant and light," I instructed warmly, looking over at Avni, who was sitting under the main floral canopy surrounded by Jay and Siya Maa. "Aaj Avni ka din hai. She is the bride, and she needs to shine the brightest today. Main zyada heavy bridal design nahi chahti."

Before the artist could even place the tip of the cone against my skin, Bebe's affectionate, raspy voice chimed in from the couch right across from us.

"Arre! Aise kaise light, Ishita?" Bebe chuckled, resting her hands on her walking stick as she adjusted her dupatta. "Tum bhi toh abhi nai-nai dulhan ho! Sirf chaar mahine hi toh hue hain tumhari shaadi ko. Rathor khandaan ki badi bahu ho tum, poori bhari hui royal Mehndi lagao, koi light vight nahi!"

Siya Maa, who was passing by with a tray of sweets, stopped and agreed with a warm smile. "Bebe bilkul sahi keh rahi hain, Ishita. Abhi toh tumhari chooda utra bhi nahi hai, aur tumne abhi se dulhan wale nakhre chhodd diye? Artist ji, inke dono haath aur forearm par ekdum intricate, rich traditional royal pattern banaiye."

"Ji Ma'am," both artists smiled brightly, immediately getting to work.

"Suno na, Maa..." I tried to protest with a playful pout. "Par Avni-"

"Avni ki Mehndi wrist se aage elbows tak full heavy chal rahi hai, Bhabhi!" Reet laughed, pointing toward the bride's pavilion. "Aap chup-chap apni lagwao, warna Rudra bhai aakar artist ko bolenge ki elbows tak nahi, shoulders tak lagao!"

Everyone around us burst into laughter, and my face immediately flushed warm pink.

The artists began their intricate work on both of my hands simultaneously. The cool dark paste traced stunning, dense royal floral mandalas, delicate mesh lattice work (jaali), and traditional lotus motifs across my palms.

The dark henna moved gracefully up toward my forearms, perfectly matching the rich, royal aesthetic of the Rathor family.

As the sharp, soothing smell of fresh henna and eucalyptus oil filled the air around me, I had to keep my hands completely still.

"Didi, don't move!" Kriti warned playfully, adjusting a cushion behind my back. "Agar design hila, toh Jiju aakar humari class lenge!"

Across the courtyard, the sharp sound of laughter broke out from the men's section.

Rudra was still standing by the marble archway, but his eyes hadn't drifted off me for even a second. Seeing me trapped on the sofa with two artists working on my hands, a low, teasing smirk spread across his handsome face. He slowly took a sip from his glass, his gaze locking onto mine through the golden fairy lights.

I narrowed my eyes playfully at him, mouthing a quiet "Don't laugh!" across the room.

His smirk only widened, his ocean-blue eyes holding mine with a look so intense, so brimming with possessive love, that I felt my heart skip three beats in a row.

"Dekho, dekho!" Saanvi whispered loudly to Reet, nudging her arm. "Jiju toh bilkul freeze ho gaye hain! Didi ko bilkul nazar nahi hatne de rahe!"

"Saanvi!" I gasped, blushing furiously down to my neck, while all the ladies-Bebe, Siya Maa, Reet, and the cousins-teased me endlessly as the beautiful royal henna continued to coat my palms in intricate golden-brown art.

The energetic beats of the dholak and the thumping bass of Punjabi music suddenly echoed across the courtyard, signaling that the dance floor was officially open. Ahana, Reet, Kriti, and Saanvi, whose hands had already dried up enough, immediately dragged the boys-Akshat Bhai, Shiv, Veer, and Vardaan-onto the glittering center stage.

Even Jay, with his hands adorned in sleek, minimal groom henna, couldn't keep his feet still. He was practically bouncing to the beat, leading the cousins in a chaotic, high-energy bhangra routine.

Suddenly, Jay spotted me sitting helplessly on the sofa, both of my hands resting flat on the silk cushions while the two artists put the finishing touches on my dense, royal forearms.

He dramatically trotted over to my lounge section, wiping fake sweat from his forehead with his sleeve, pouting like a disappointed younger brother.

"Kya yarr, Bhabhi!" Jay whined loudly over the music, folding his arms. "Aap itni late Mehndi kyu lagva rahi ho? Ab mere sath dance kaun karega?!"

"Arre, Jay!" I laughed, shaking my head as the lead artist carefully painted a delicate lotus motif on my wrist. "Look at my hands! Main chaah kar bhi nahi uth sakti... wet henna hai abhi!"

"Nahi, yeh bilkul unfair hai!" Jay protested dramatically, turning to the surrounding family for support. "Main dulha hoon, aur meri sabse favorite Bhabhi mere sath stage par bhangra nahi kar rahi! Bhabhi ke bina dance floor par energy hi nahi aa rahi hai!"

Before I could even reply, a towering shadow fell over both of us.

"Toh mat kar," Rudra's deep, authoritative baritone rumbled smoothly from behind Jay.

Jay jumped slightly, turning around to see his bhai standing tall in his ivory embroidered jacket, hands tucked casually into his trouser pockets, looking utterly relaxed and intensely protective.

"Bhai!" Jay gasped with fake heartbreak. "Aap toh Bhabhi ki side hi loge! Par dance toh banta hai na?"

"Usko disturbance mat karo, Jay," Rudra said smoothly, stepping right beside my sofa. His ocean-blue eyes briefly checked on the progress of the henna on my palms before locking onto his younger brother with a dangerous, playful glint. "If you need a dance partner so badly, go dance with Akshat."

"Akshat bhai ke sath?! Bhai, unka bhangra nahi, drill dance hota hai!" Jay cried out, making Reet, Dhristi Bhabhi, and the cousins burst into fits of laughter from the dance floor.

I giggled softly, looking up at Rudra with bright, fond brown eyes. "Aap itne strict kyun ho rahe hain, Patidev? Jay is just excited.

Rudra leaned down slightly, his voice dropping to a low, warm whisper meant only for my ears as the thumping music covered his words. "Main strict nahi ho raha, Janna... main bas yeh ensure kar raha hoon ki mere alawa koi aur tumhari waist pakad kar tumhe dance floor par nah le jaaye. Even if it's Jay."

My heart did a wild, romantic flip against my ribs. A deep blush spread across my cheeks, contrasting stunningly with my dark smoky eyeshadow.

"Aap sach mein impossible hain, Mr. Rathor," I whispered back, my glossy lips curving into a shy, breathless smile.

"Pata hai," he rumbled softly, giving me a sleek, possessive wink before turning back to a sulking Jay. "Go on, groom. Go dance with your bride before I assign you board meeting preparation for tomorrow morning."

"Ja raha hoon, ja raha hoon! Bhabhi, dekhiye aapka pati kitna dictator hai!" Jay teased, retreating safely back toward Avni and the dancing crowd as the celebratory music filled the royal Rajasthan night.

The energy in the grand courtyard skyrocketed as the main dance performances officially began. Everyone gathered around the central stage, sitting on comfortable velvet cushions and low diwans, clapping along to the beat. Since my hands were still covered in wet henna, Rudra stayed right beside my lounge sofa, standing tall and protective like a wall, occasionally reaching over to make sure my dupatta didn't touch the dark paste.

First up were Dhristi Bhabhi and Ahana! They took over the dance floor with a lively, traditional Rajasthani folk fusion performance. Ahana's energetic moves paired perfectly with Dhristi Bhabhi's graceful, poised steps.

"See! I told you we were going to steal the show!" Ahana cheered into the microphone after their final pose, making the entire crowd erupt into loud applause.

Next, Avni's side of the family took the stage. Her brothers and sisters brought so much energy, performing a hilarious and heartwarming medley of Punjabi and Bollywood tracks dedicated to the bride and groom. They even pulled Jay into the middle for a sudden surprise step, making everyone double over with laughter.

"Waah! What a performance!" Akshat Bhai shouted, clapping enthusiastically from the front row while holding little Krish on his lap.

Sitting beside Reet and Siya Maa, I couldn't stop smiling and clapping with the tips of my fingers to avoid smudging my wet Mehndi.

"Aapko dance karna tha na, Janna?" Rudra whispered softly, leaning down near my shoulder, his warm breath fanning across my cheek. "You look restless."

I turned my head slightly to look up at my handsome husband in his ivory embroidered jacket. "Mera man toh bohot kar raha hai, Ru... but look at my hands! Main toh bas aap sabki performances enjoy kar sakti hoon."

Rudra's dark blue eyes softened with absolute devotion. He reached out with his left hand, his long fingers gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear, taking extreme care not to disturb my hair or makeup.

"Don't worry, Queen," he rumbled in his low, velvety baritone, a possessive smirk playing on his lips. "Once your Mehndi dries up... You can do it as much as you want

By the time the individual family performances wrapped up, my henna had dried enough to a safe, dark-green crust that wouldn't smudge easily. I carefully blew on my palms, admiring the intricate royal mandalas and floral jaali work coating my hands and forearms.

While everyone was cheering for the last group performance, I noticed Avni sitting alone on her plush bride's sofa under the floral canopy, her lower lip tucked into a pout and her eyes looking distinctly downcast.

I picked up the edges of my heavy mauve saree-gown, making sure my silver heels didn't catch on the hem, and walked over to sit right beside her.

"Kya hua, Avni?" I asked softly, resting a gentle hand over hers. "Sab kitne khush hain, phir tumhara face itna sad kyun lag raha hai?

Avni looked up at me, letting out a heavy, disappointed sigh. "Bhabhi... recent checkup mein doctor ne mujhe complete rest ke liye bola hai. Heavy movements aur dance strictly deny kiya hai standard precautions ke liye. I was supposed to perform a surprise dance for Jay today, par ab main dance nahi kar sakti."

"Oh, sweetie," I smiled warmly, squeezing her fingers gently. "Toh kya tumne saare songs prepare kiye the?" I asked.

"Haan bhabhi!" Avni nodded, her eyes glistening slightly. "Ghar par bohot practice ki thi

"Toh bas, itni si baat!" I chuckled softly, leaning in to kiss her forehead fondly. "It's completely okay, Avni. Doctor ne tumhari aur baby ki safety ke liye bola hai. Jab baby aa jayega, tab hum dono milkar stage phod denge, ok? Don't be sad... my beautiful bride looks way too gorgeous to be pouting like this!"

Avni smiled through her sadness, looking at my dry henna-covered hands, then suddenly her eyes lit up with a brilliant idea.

"Bhabhi..." Avni gasped, gripping my wrists lightly. "Why don't you dance on behalf of me?!"

"Main?!" I blinked in surprise, pointing a thumb at myself. "Par Avni, maine toh tumhare songs par step rehearse nahi kiye-"

Jay said lair

"Arre, she is the absolute best at dancing!"

Dhristi Bhabhi chimed in instantly, walking over with a glass of juice. "Ishu bhabhi, tum toh aakh band karke bhi stage par aag laga sakti ho!"

"Exactly!" Reet agreed loudly, clapping her hands to gather everyone's attention. "She can easily do it! Ishita bhabhi ka classical aur Bollywood dance unmatched hai!"

"Ishita! Ishita! Ishita!"

Within seconds, the entire courtyard echoed with cheers. Reet, Dhristi, Ahana, Jay, Saanvi, and Kriti started chanting my name in unison, clapping along with the beats of the dholak. Even Ram Papa and Lakhan Chacha were smiling and nodding in encouragement, while Bebe gave me a gentle wave of her hand from her lounge chair.

"Dance on behalf of your sister-in-law, Ishita!"

Siya Maa smiled brightly. "Pura khandaan tumhari performance ka wait kar raha hai!"

I looked across the glittering stage toward the marble archway. Rudra was still standing there, his hands in his pockets, his deep ocean-blue eyes locking onto mine with a slow, devastatingly handsome smirk. He leaned back slightly against the pillar, silently waiting to see his Queen take over the stage.

After another twenty minutes, the intricate dark paste on my hands and forearms had dried just enough-what everyone calls the 'okok' stage-where it wasn't at risk of smudging unless someone hit it directly. The artist carefully blew warm air over my palms and gave me the green light.

"Didi! Ab toh aao!" Kriti came charging across the courtyard, her own dried henna hands raised in the air as she grabbed me by my forearms, taking utmost care not to touch my fresh design. "Now no more excuses! Stage aapka wait kar raha hai!"

Before I could even adjust my glittering net dupatta, Kriti practically dragged me off the velvet sofa straight into the middle of the glittering center stage. The DJ instantly switched the track to a loud, energetic Punjabi wedding song, and the entire crowd erupted in cheers.

"WOOOO! Bhabhi is on the dance floor!" Jay yelled, jumping in front of us with his hands in the air, his energy completely unhinged.

"Let's go, Didi!" Kriti squealed, matching Jay's chaotic energy beat for beat.

The three of us formed a crazy, unstoppable trio in the center of the stage. Forgetting all my royal badi bahu poise for a few moments, I let my freestyle curls bounce wild as I joined them, doing energetic bhangra steps, twirling gracefully in my dusty-mauve saree gown, and keeping my dark henna-stained hands raised safely above my shoulders like a true Punjabi bride.

"Bhabhi, step badlo! Naagin dance!" Jay shouted over the thumping bass, doing ridiculous moves that made Avni and the elders roar with laughter from the couches.

"Jay, tum pagal ho!" I laughed hysterically, throwing my head back as Kriti and I spun around him in circles, our silver anklets tinkling loudly over the music.

The whole family joined in-Reet, Ahana, Saanvi, and Shiv were clapping along, creating a tight circle around the three of us as we kept dancing relentlessly, completely breathless and glowing with sheer happiness.

In the middle of all the crazy spin-offs and loud cheers, my eyes naturally drifted toward the edge of the dance floor.

Rudra was standing near the main marble pillar, his hands casually tucked into the pockets of his ivory embroidered jacket. He wasn't dancing, of course-that wasn't his style-but the soft, indulgent smile playing on his lips was entirely reserved for me. His ocean-blue eyes tracked my every single twirl, my every burst of laughter, looking at me with a mix of fierce pride and deep, possessive affection.

Seeing him watching me like that, I caught his eye mid-spin, blew him a tiny, playful kiss through the air with my wet henna-stained hands, and went right back to tearing up the dance floor with Jay and Kriti.

"Okay, fine! Fine, fine! Chillaao mat," I laughed, covering my ears as the crowd erupted into deafening cheers and applause.

I got up from the plush velvet sofa, smoothing down the flowing panels of my glittering mauve saree-gown. "Sab saath mein karte hain na! Akeli main thodi na naachungi!"

"Deal!" Dhristi Bhabhi cheered, instantly springing up from her seat. Saanvi, Kriti, and Avni's cousins quickly joined us, forming a vibrant line behind me.

Reet stayed seated with a warm laugh, hand resting over her baby bump, while Aditi gave me a enthusiastic wave from her comfy armchair. Seriously, why is almost every girl in our gang pregnant right now?! I thought with a fond giggle.

The DJ dropped the lively, celebratory beats of Palkhi Mein Hoke Sawar Chali Re. I took center stage, the golden lights reflecting off my sparkling outfit and silver heels.

As the iconic opening music swelled, I began gracefully twirling, my freestyle dark curls bouncing with every turn, my dry henna-adorned hands moving in mesmerizing classical fluid grace:

"O o o...

Koi rok sake to rok le main naachati

Chhan chhan chhan chhan chhan!

Paalki mein ho ke savaar chali re

Main to apane saajan ke dwaar chali re!"

Dhristi Bhabhi, Saanvi, Kriti, and the girls matched my energy step for step behind me, turning the royal courtyard into a burst of absolute joy. I twirled around, pointing playfully toward the groom and bride, then turned my gaze straight toward the grand marble pillar where Rudra was standing.

My brown eyes locked onto his dark ocean-blue ones as I sang along with the high-tempo rhythm, my voice blending with the music as I pointed my henna-stained palms directly at him:

"Mushkil se maine ye din nikaale...

Chalte tej chal tu o gaadi waale!

Mann mein lagi hai aisi lagan,

Aisi lagan haay aisi lagan!

Hoke main badi bekaraar chali re...

Main to apane saajan ke dwaar chali re!"

The entire Rathor and Sharma clan erupted into wild cheers. Jay was whistling at the top of his lungs, Shiv and Veer were shouting, and even Ram Papa was clapping with a proud beam on his face.

Right at the center of it all stood Rudra, his sharp, muscular frame perfectly tailored in his ivory jacket. His gaze was burning into mine, a slow, mesmerizing smirk spreading across his handsome face as he watched his Queen rule the stage with absolute beauty, elegance, and pure grace.

The music seamlessly transitioned into a classic, high-energy festive beat. The dholak rhythms picked up with a crisp, infectious tempo, and the instantly recognizable melody of Maine Payal Hai Chhankai filled the evening air.

I didn't miss a single beat. My silver heels clicked rhythmically against the polished marble floor as I twirled into the opening transition, my mauve saree-gown flaring around me like a glittering storm. Dhristi Bhabhi, Kriti, and Saanvi stepped into perfect synchronization behind me, but the spotlight stayed completely centered on my every move.

I gracefully bent my knees, striking a classic traditional posture, and gently shook my ankles so the delicate silver anklets tinkled right in time with the music:

"Maine payal hai chhankai...

Ab to aaja ho harjai!

Maine payal hai chhankai...

Ab to aaja ho harjai!"

The entire courtyard erupted into deafening cheers! Jay was up on his feet waving a velvet bolster in the air, while Shiv and Veer kept whistling loud enough to echo off the palace walls.

I turned gracefully on my heels, bringing my dark-hennaed palms together near my chest, my smoky brown eyes locking straight onto Rudra, who hadn't moved an inch from his spot by the marble pillar:

"Meri saanso mein tu hai basa... o... sajna!

Aaja na ab tarsa... o... sajna!

Aaja na ab tarsa..."

I mimed the lyrical expression with pure drama-pointing a delicate finger toward my heart and then extending my hand out toward him, teasingly coaxing my husband to join in on the celebration.

"O... maine payal hai chhankai...

Ab to aaja ho harjai!

Meri saanso mein tu hai basa... o... sajna!

Aaja na ab tarsa... o... sajna!

Aaja na ab tarsa!"

My freestyle curls tossed around my shoulders as I finished the refrain with a sharp, flawless spin, ending in an effortless pose with my hand resting near my jawline right where my little moles were tucked.

The crowd went wild! Maa and Bebe were clapping enthusiastically, praising every step, while Avni beamed with absolute delight from her bride's throne.

And right there, standing amidst the applause, Rudra stood taller than everyone else. His deep, ocean-blue gaze burned with a mixture of raw pride, possessive longing, and absolute awe. A slow, breathtaking smile curved his lips as he unbuttoned his ivory jacket slightly, his eyes promising me that once this dance ended, I would have to pay for every single teasing line I just sang to him.

As the song hit its final beat, I struck a dramatic finishing pose, flipping my dark freestyle curls back over my shoulder with absolute attitude. The crowd went wild, showering the dance floor with cheers and applause! I broke my regal stance and burst into a bright, breathless laugh, taking a quick bow.

Before I could step off stage, Jay came running up to the DJ console, grabbing a wireless microphone with an mischievous grin plastered across his face.

"Rukiyee rukiyee!" Jay shouted into the mic, making everyone laugh. "Abhi toh party shuru hui hai! Bhabhi, aap akele akele saare spotlight nahi le sakti! Ab dulhe ka dance chalega... aur Bhabhi, aap mere sath jugalbandi karogi!"

The DJ dropped the upbeat, iconic rhythm of Kaali Teri Choti Hai. Jay stepped right onto the center stage opposite me, holding his invisible mic and pointing playfully at my long, wavy curls.

Jay started off the musical duel with full energy, singing aloud to Avni and teasingly toward me:

"Kaali teri choti hai, paranda tera laal ni...

O roop ki o rani tu, parande ko sambhaal ni!

Kisi manchale ka tujhpe aa gaya jo dil... hogi badi mushkil!"

I laughed, taking up the challenge instantly! I stepped forward, swaying my hips to the beat, tossing my hair with a proud smirk as I sang right back:

"Maine bhi mushkilo se khelna hai sikha!"

(I mean, after all, I am married to the cold, ruthless, and fierce Rudra Singh Rathor-what 'mushkil' could possibly scare me?)

Continuing the lively banter, I twirled gracefully, holding my imaginary paranda in my hands.

"Meri bhi tamanna mujhpe aaye dil kisi ka...

Aashiq ka parande naal bandh lungi dil... hogi kaise mushkil?!"

The entire courtyard erupted! Akshat Bhai and Veer were cheering, while Rudra stood near the archway, his dark ocean-blue eyes fixed entirely on me. A faint, extremely dangerous yet proud smirk tugged at his lips as he heard my line about playing with troubles.

Jay didn't back down. He danced around me in circles, pointing playfully at my glowing cheeks:

"Daavte deti hai tere gaalon ki yeh laali...

Ban baitha mera dil, tera hi savaali!"

I matched his step effortlessly, pointing a playful finger right back at him with pure, fiery attitude:

"Phool nahi gaal damakte hain shole!

Chhune chale ho, bade dil ke hain bhole!"

Jay grinned, singing back dramatically as the song reached its high tempo:

"O sholo se lipat ke patange jhoomte hain...

Jal jaaye chahe, shama ko choomte hain!

Kisi siraphire ka tujhpe aa gaya jo dil... hogi badi mushkil!"

I finished the jugalbandi with a sharp spin, striking a grand final pose right opposite Jay as we both sang the closing lines together:

"Kaali teri choti hai, paranda tera laal ni...

Aashiq ka parande naal bandh lungi dil... hogi kaise mushkil!"

The music ended on a high note, and the entire venue burst into roaring applause! Jay and I gave each other a high-five, both of us breathless and laughing as the family cheered for our unexpected, legendary stage face-off.

I didn't stop there. Breathless and full of energy, I ran around pulling everyone onto the dance floor-Siya Maa, Ram Papa, Lakhan Chacha, Ahana, Dhristi Bhabhi, and the cousins! The only one I intentionally left standing by the archway was my husband.

Rudra Singh Rathor didn't do public Bollywood group dances. The Prince of Rajasthan only danced in private, where his hands could hold me close without a hundred eyes watching.

Suddenly, my childhood bestie Aditi-pregnant belly and all-came strutting straight into the center of the stage, bringing me face-to-face with her.

"Wait, what are you trying to do?!" I laughed, completely surprised as the DJ dropped a catchy, fast-paced Haryanvi beat. The song switched to the iconic face-off track Balam Mera!

I burst into non-stop laughter as the entire crowd backed away, giving us a wide circle in the middle of the courtyard. Everyone started clapping and cheering as Aditi started the playful banter, pointing her thumb over her shoulder at her husband Veer, then at Rudra:

"Balam mera gora chitta chhail!

Tera log se kala kalutta, bhittar me rakhe ghana mail!

Balam mera gora chitta chhail!"

The crowd went wild with laughter! I put my hands on my hips, swaying with full swag, and fired right back at her:

"Ooho... Balam mera dil ka kasuta nek!

Mere aala kar rya PhD, tera khasam guttha tek!

Balam mera dil ka kasuta nek!"

Aditi giggled, doing a dramatic strut as she sang the next verse:

"Mere aala pehre coat-pant ho jyave se hungama!

Tera log se boli buch, pehre bursat tale pajama!"

"Rehen de!" I shouted playfully, pointing proudly toward Rudra, who was standing tall by the pillar in his tailored ivory jacket, looking every bit like a royal deity. I took two steps forward, singing with absolute pride:

"Gaat ka thaada 6 foot ka se log mera!

Dharti dhakel laage gutka sa log tera!

Balam mera Sunny Deol ne kare fail!"

The whole courtyard erupted into deafening shouts! Akshat Bhai and Jay were practically rolling on the floor laughing. Veer was yelling, "Arre, mere upar kyun aagaye sab?!"

I glanced toward Rudra. The moment I sang "6 foot ka se log mera" and "Sunny Deol ne kare fail",

my husband's dark ocean-blue eyes flashed with deep, intense pride. A slow, smirking curve appeared on his lips as he crossed his arms over his broad chest, thoroughly enjoying his Queen publicly bragging about his towering, dangerous persona.

Aditi dramatically waved her hand in the air, trying to hit back:

"Mere aala mne ghumaave Jaipur kde Madras!

Re tera khasam to tatt-munji kare mood ka satyanash!"

"Aah-aah!" I shook my head with full attitude, twirling in my glittering mauve gown:

"Rehen De! Haye mere aala laddu se ar tere aala bhora!

Haye nyara dikhe gaal me yo Sanjay Dutt sa tora!"

The music reached its high-energy crescendo as Aditi and I danced together in the center, ending the hilarious face-off with both of us laughing, breathless, and hugging each other tight while the family showered us with whistles and loud applause.

Aditi and I hugged it out in the middle of the dance floor, both of us wheezing with laughter while the entire family wiped tears from their eyes. Veer was still pretending to be offended in the background, making everyone laugh even harder.

Before I could even catch my breath, the DJ dropped the booming, iconic beat of Chunari Chunari.

The second the opening rhythm hit the speakers, Kriti's eyes went wide. She sprinted across the courtyard straight toward me with a massive, mischievous grin on her face.

You see, back when we were younger, Kriti and I had practiced a completely wild, high-energy routine to this exact song for endless family functions. But only our Sharma family knew about it-the Rathors, the friends, and most importantly, my husband, had never seen us perform it together.

Because Kriti was naturally tall, slender, and had a towering presence, she immediately stepped into her signature role for this dance: playing the male lead-playing Rudra.

Kriti quickly rolled up her sleeves, adjusted her dupatta like a swagger-filled scarf around her neck, and stood opposite me with her chin held high, perfectly mimicking Rudra's stern, tall, and stoic posture.

The entire crowd gasped in surprise, giving us a wide circle as the song kicked into high gear:

"Chunari-chunari...

Chunari-chunari..."

I took center stage, my dark freestyle curls tossing back as I glided across the floor in my shimmering mauve saree-gown, using my lightweight net dupatta with full Bollywood dramatic flare:

"Lal Ganj ke lal bagh se lal chunariya laaye...

Lal rang mein daal-daal ke lal-lal rangwaye!"

I twirled around Kriti, matching her rhythmic steps while she acted all cool, aloof, and protective-exactly like a mini-Rudra! The Rathor family went completely wild. Siya Maa and Ram Papa were clapping loudly, while Jay and Akshat Bhai were cheering at the top of their lungs.

I turned back to Kriti, pointing my henna-stained hands at her while executing sharp, flawless classical hips-and-waist movements:

"Aaja na chhoo le meri chunari sanam!

Kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!

Aai jawani sar pe mere, tere bin kya karun... jawani be-raham, haaye!

Aaja na chhoo le meri chunari sanam... kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!"

Kriti pulled off a hilarious, smooth stance, resting one hand on her waist while using the other to tease my dupatta, acting out the ultimate possessive male hero steps. The synchronization between us was so crisp, so effortless, that it looked like a professionally choreographed show!

Across the courtyard, Rudra was watching the entire spectacle. His ocean-blue eyes narrowed slightly as he saw Kriti playing 'him', but a genuinely amused, dangerously attractive smirk broke across his handsome face. He unbuttoned his ivory jacket a little more, leaning his broad shoulder against the pillar, his eyes burning with intense pride as he watched his Queen rule the dance floor with her sister.

"Waah! What a combo!" Jay yelled, whistling wildly as Kriti and I struck a dramatic final pose right in time with the roaring beat:

"Chunari-chunari! Chunari-chunari!"

The music swelled into the next verse, and I didn't slow down for a single second. I gathered my delicate sheer dupatta, fluttering it dramatically in front of my face as I sang directly toward Kriti:

"Meri chunari lal rang ki sharmaaye, ghabraaye...

Tu jo daale ispe nazar ye aur lal ho jaaye!"

Kriti played her role as Rudra with 100% commitment! She deepened her expression, took a broad, confident step forward, and sang back with full swagger:

"Teri chunari lipat-lipat ke pagal mujhe banaaye...

Pehle se hi tadap raha tha aur mujhe tadpaaye!"

Right on cue, Kriti yanked the edge of my dupatta, pulling me close by my waist! The entire Rathor and Sharma family burst into loud, unstoppable laughter at how perfectly Kriti was impersonating Rudra's possessive, intense nature.

Holding my ground with a dramatic, pouty expression, Kriti leaned in slightly, mimicking Rudra's deep tone:

"Jaane tamanna kar na aise sitam!"

I spun out of her grip with a sharp, graceful turn, my silver heels clicking against the marble as my dark freestyle curls whipped through the air:

"Kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!

Aai jawani sar pe mere, tere bin kya karun... jawani be-raham, haaye!

Aaja na chhoo le meri chunari sanam, kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!"

Kriti didn't break character for even a fraction of a second. She did a smooth hero-style slide, brushing her hands down her sides, pretending to act all mesmerized and intense:

"Chikne-chikne badan se tere sar-sar chunari sarke...

Aisa lage ki bin baadal ambar pe bijli kadke!"

I fully cooperated with her act, leaning back into the choreography, bringing my dark-hennaed palms together above my head, and singing back with fiery, flirtatious attitude:

"Jii karta hai ye bijli main tujh pe aaj giraoon!

Tujhko bhar loon baahon mein ye chunari tujhe udaoon!

Badhta hi jaaye dard ho na khatam... kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!"

The crowd went completely ballistic! Jay was whistling continuously, Akshat Bhai was filming the whole thing on his phone, and Siya Maa was clutching her stomach from laughing so hard.

Right at the climax of the song, I executed a series of fast, breathtaking twirls, ending right beside Kriti as we both struck a dramatic, grand final pose:

"Aaja na chhoo le meri chunari sanam!

Kuchh na main boolun tujhe meri kasam!

Chunari-chunari... Chunari-chunari...

Chunari-chunari... Chunari-chunari!"

As the last beat faded, I collapsed against Kriti's shoulder, both of us breathless and laughing uncontrollably. The entire courtyard erupted in a standing ovation.

I wiped a tiny tear of laughter from my eye and looked across the grand space toward the marble archway. Rudra was still standing there, his hands resting casually in his trouser pockets. A broad, devastatingly handsome smirk was carved into his face, his dark ocean-blue eyes fixed entirely on me

👑 Rudra's Perspective

I stood leaning against the grand marble pillar, my unbuttoned ivory jacket resting loosely over my shoulders, thoroughly entertained by the chaos unfolding on the dance floor. Watching my Janna dance with such boundless energy and joy had my pulse racing, but seeing Kriti pull off that exaggerated, intense version of me during "Chunari Chunari" had a low, rare smirk carved deep into my face.

The moment the applause settled, Kriti's eyes caught mine from across the courtyard. Seeing the towering CEO of Rathor Company staring at her with a dangerous, arched eyebrow, she instantly froze.

With a breathless giggle, Kriti held both of her ears with her hands, pouting dramatically as she took a quick step back. "Sorry, Jiju! Acting thodi zyada ho gayi!" she called out, making the whole crowd chuckle.

She immediately turned around, Cupping her hands around her mouth, and shouted at the top of her lungs, "You are the best Jiju ever!"

Before I could even respond, she darted over to the DJ console and whispered something urgently into the DJ's ear-clearly trying to save herself from any 'retaliation' from her cold, formidable brother-in-law.

The heavy dholak beat dropped, and the instantly recognizable, playful Mere Jijaji echoed across the venue.

Kriti sprinted right back into the center of the stage, pointing both of her palms dramatically at me, breaking into a energetic, high-octane solo dance routine meant entirely for my benefit:

"Jin ke aage Ji, jin ke peeche Ji...

Wo jin ke aage-peeche Ji Ji!

Main unki saali hoon, wo mere Jijaji...

Wo mere Jijaji! Wo mere Jijaji!"

She twirled around in a circle, bringing her hands together in a respectful, dramatic namaste toward the marble pillar where I stood, her steps crisp and full of pure Punjabi swag:

"Jin ke aage Ji, jin ke peeche Ji...

Wo jin ke aage-peeche Ji Ji!

Main unki saali hoon...

Wo mere Jijaji, wo mere Jijaji, wo mere Jijaji!"

Akshat, Veer, and Jay were practically roaring with laughter, cheering Kriti on as she put on her grand apology performance. Ishita was standing right beside her, leaning against the edge of the stage, her hand covering her mouth as she laughed helplessly, her freestyle curls bouncing around her blushing, glowing face.

I shook my head slowly, a genuine, soft chuckle escaping my lips. I adjusted the cuffs of my embroidered jacket, stepping forward just an inch from the pillar, and gave my little saali a single, calm nod of approval.

Kriti let out a dramatic sigh of relief mid-dance, throwing her arms up in victory, while my ocean-blue eyes slid right back to my Queen-whose glossy lips and bright brown eyes were still fixed entirely on me.