AUTHOR'S POV

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After the busy morning at home, Kiansha rushed to get ready for college. Her excitement built as she thought about meeting her friends and the day ahead. She slipped on her favorite pair of jeans and a comfortable, stylish top, carefully styling her hair before heading out the door. As she grabbed her bag, her mother, Nitya, called out from the kitchen.

"Kiansha, don't forget to pack some snacks for your friends!" Nitya reminded her with a warm smile.

"Of course, Maa! I'll be back before dinner!" Kiansha replied, waving goodbye as she stepped out.

The vibrant campus of her college was just a short ride away. Kiansha felt a rush of energy as she entered the bustling gates, filled with the chatter and laughter of students. She spotted her friends Shriya,Tanvi and Dhey near the main fountain, their usual meeting spot.

"Hey, Kiansha!" Tanvi called out, waving her hand enthusiastically. "We saved you a spot!"

"Sorry I'm late! Mornings at home can be a whirlwind," Kiansha said with a laugh, joining them.

Dhey, who had been leaning against the fountain, smirked. "I thought you were going to miss class again. We were ready to drag you here!"

"Not a chance!" Kiansha replied playfully. "I wouldn't miss this for the world. Plus, I've got snacks!"

The group laughed and settled down on a nearby bench, sharing stories of their morning adventures. Kiansha pulled out a box of homemade cookies her mother had baked, handing them around.

"Wow, your mom's baking is legendary!" Shriya exclaimed, taking a big bite. "These are amazing!"

"Thanks! I'll tell her," Kiansha said, her heart warming at the thought of her mother's approval.

As they munched on cookies, Kiansha shared her plans for the upcoming weekend. "So, what do you guys think about going to that new Italian cafe?

"I'm in! We need a study break," Tanvi agreed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Only if you promise not to take forever picking what to order," Dhey teased, earning a playful glare from Tanvi.

The conversation flowed easily among them, covering everything from college assignments to personal stories. As they continued their light-hearted banter, Kiansha felt the warmth of friendship envelop her, reminding her that amidst the chaos of family and relationships, she always had these moments of joy with her friends.

As they entered the classroom, Kiansha took a seat at the front, her friends following suit. The lecture began, and while Kiansha focused on the professor, her mind occasionally drifted to thoughts about her cat's

After a long day at college, Kiansha arrived home with her friends Shriya, Tanvi, and Dhey, their chatter and laughter echoing through the house as they entered.

"I'm starving! What's for dinner?" Shriya groaned, dramatically holding her stomach.

"Let's hope it's something special. I'm not in the mood for simple dal today," Kiansha teased, nudging Shriya.

They were immediately greeted by her Badi Maa Dhara, who stood at the door, smiling warmly. "You kids always come in making such noise," she laughed. "How was college?"

"Exhausting, as usual," Dhey answered with a grin. "But we're surviving."

In the living room, Kiansha's brother Sahil was reclining on the couch, his daughter tugging at his hair, giggling uncontrollably. "Slow down, Gudiya! You'll make me bald before I turn 30," he joked, ruffling her hair in return.

Kiansha's father, Aniket, was seated next to Yugant, her elder cousin, and Bade Papa. The men were in a deep conversation, probably about work, but Yugant looked up as soon as the group entered.

"Oh, look who's back! How's college life treating you?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Better than your boring working life, bhaiya," Kiansha quipped with a cheeky grin, throwing her bag onto the couch. "At least we don't have to sit through endless works."

Yugant chuckled. "Touché."

The group of friends dropped themselves onto the sofa, utterly drained. "If I ever have to sit through another lecture like today's, I'm quitting college," Tanvi said, lying back dramatically.

Kiansha's mother, Nitya, appeared with glasses of water. "You're all so dramatic," she said, smiling as she handed them the water. "Here, drink up before you faint from all your complaining."

Swati, her bhabhi, followed with tea, coffee, and snacks. "You'll feel better after this. And don't worry, dinner will be ready soon," she said, placing the tray on the coffee table.

"Thank God," Shriya sighed, grabbing a biscuit. "Your house always has the best snacks."

As they all settled into the living room, the conversation naturally flowed to academics. "I can't believe we still have another 4months until finals," Dhey groaned. "I feel like we've been studying forever."

"Don't remind me," Kiansha replied. "I swear, if I have to look at another business case study, my brain will melt."

Just then, Jay walked in, his hair a mess, looking thoroughly exhausted. He collapsed on the couch next to Yugant. "If anyone asks me to do anything productive tonight, I'm out," he declared, closing his eyes dramatically.

"You sound like us," Tanvi joked. "Welcome to the club."

The conversation soon turned to Dhriti's wedding, which was just two days away. "You guys ready to party?" Kiansha asked, eyes twinkling with excitement.

"We haven't even started packing," Sahil said from the couch. "I'll probably throw everything into a suitcase last minute. As usual."

"You always do," Kiansha teased. "But this time, don't forget your shoes like last time!"

Dinner that evening was lively, with everyone gathered around the table, the younger clan teasing and laughing together. "Dhey, stop hogging the paneer,"Tanvi scolded, trying to grab the bowl from him.

"I'm just making sure I get my fair share,"Dhey said with a mischievous smile, holding the bowl out of reach.

"Bachon jaise mat karo," Nitya said, shaking her head but smiling fondly.

[Don't act like kids].

After dinner, Kiansha, Shriya, Tanvi and Dhey, headed up to the terrace, carrying cold drinks and snacks. The stars above twinkled in the cool night sky as they sprawled out, enjoying the breeze.

"This is what I needed," Shriya sighed, taking a deep breath. "A break from everything."

"You know, we used to do this all the time," Dhey remarked, sipping his soda. "Feels like it's been forever."

"We still have fun though," Kiansha said. "We're still the coolest group in college."

Tanvi grinned. "The most popular, for sure. Everyone wants to hang out with us, don't forget that."

Dhey rolled his eyes. "Yeah, and I'm sure that has nothing to do with the fact that we get into trouble half the time."

They laughed together, the ease of their friendship and years of memories making the moment even more special.

"Remember when Shriya locked herself in the art room because she was 'working on a masterpiece'?" Tanvi teased, glancing over at her.

"Oh my God, I still can't believe you did that," Kiansha added, laughing. "And then we had to bribe the janitor to let you out!"

"Hey! That was a creative emergency!" Shriya defended herself with a grin.

As the laughter died down, Tanvi smirked. "So, truth or dare?"

Shriya groaned. "Not this again."

"Come on, it'll be fun," Dhey said. "Let's see who cracks first."

"Fine, but don't blame me if things get awkward," Kiansha warned, a playful smile on her face.

And with that, they launched into a night filled with fun, stories, and more laughter, reminiscing about their old school days and the crazy moments that built their friendship. The terrace echoed with their joy, carrying the bonds of their college years well into the night.

Sunday morning in the Patel household was always a lively affair.The kitchen was filled with the sound of sizzling pans and soft conversations as the women prepared breakfast and snacks for the kids. The men, for a change, were lending a hand. It was one of those rare, peaceful mornings where everyone seemed in sync.

Nitya was stirring the batter for the pancakes while Dhara handed her a plate of freshly cut fruit. "I think we should also make paneer parathas and dhokla for lunch. The kids will be hungry again soon," Nitya suggested, smiling at her sister-in-law.

"Yes, and maybe add some extra ghee. They always ask for more," Dhara chuckled, glancing at Aniket, who was standing beside her, trying to chop vegetables.

"Careful with that knife, Aniket bhai," she teased. "We don't need you cutting your fingers."

"I'm doing fine, thank you," Aniket replied, holding up a perfectly chopped tomato. "See? I can handle it."

In the living room, the youngsters started gathering, still shaking off the remnants of sleep. Kiansha, Jay, Shriya, Tanvi, and Dhey settled on the sofas, feeling the cozy warmth of a family Sunday morning.

"So," Jay started, leaning back and looking at Kiansha. "What's the plan for the wedding? You're the star of this wedding after all."

Kiansha sighed, running a hand through her hair. " Don't joke around jay bhai i still can't believe I'm going to a wedding where none of my friends are coming with me. It's just going to be me, all alone, trying to look like I'm having fun," she said with a small laugh, glancing at Shriya and Tanvi.

Shriya shrugged. "Hey, we would've come if it wasn't for our exams. You know that."

"Yeah, but still... I'm going to miss you guys there. I feel like I'll be lost without you," Kiansha admitted, leaning back on the sofa.

Jay grinned. "Well, don't worry too much, Kiansha. You've got me there. We'll make sure to have fun, even if it's just the two of us."

"And don't forget, you've got all of Dhriti di's siblings and cousins. They seem like a fun bunch," Tanvi added with a reassuring smile.

Kiansha smiled softly. "I suppose you're right. Dhriti di and Dhruv bhai and the others are pretty nice. They've been super welcoming, and it'll be nice to spend time with them. But it's still a bit nervewracking."

Jay nudged her. "You'll be fine. Plus, you get to perform at the wedding. That's something exciting, right?"

"Oh, don't remind me," Kiansha groaned playfully. "I'm going to trip on my lehenga or forget the steps. You know how clumsy I can be."

Dhey smirked. "If you do trip, just make it part of the performance. Maybe throw in a dramatic twirl, and no one will notice."

They all laughed, easing the tension that Kiansha had been feeling.

"What about you, Jay?" Shriya asked, turning to him. "Are you ready to be on your best behavior at this wedding?"

Jay rolled his eyes. "Oh please, when have I ever been on my best behavior? But don't worry, I'll make sure to keep Kiansha from stressing out too much. I'll be the life of the wedding ."

"Sure you will," Tanvi teased. "Just don't drink too much and start telling embarrassing stories about all of us."

"I make no promises," Jay replied with a mischievous grin.

At that moment, Aashika peeked her head out of the kitchen. "Breakfast is almost ready! Don't get too comfortable in there, you'll be helping with the preparations for the wedding later."

"Can't we just eat and relax? It's Sunday!" Dhey called out, but everyone knew that wasn't going to happen.

Kiansha glanced around the room, feeling a bit more at ease. The wedding was going to be different without her close friends, but she had her family

the trip to Rajasthan was bright and bustling, filled with a sense of excitement

Kiansha's household was alive with activity as everyone prepared for the journey. The sun streamed through the windows, illuminating the living room where luggage was being organized and last-minute items packed.

Kiansha had already completed her daily routine, and now she was helping her mother Nitya with snacks for the road. "Mom, do we have enough sandwiches and fruits?" she asked, glancing at the kitchen counter piled high with food.

Nitya nodded, her hands busy wrapping everything. "Yes, but we can always pack a few more. The kids will be hungry on the way."

In the living room, the younger kids, Anaya and Yug, were still sleeping soundly, wrapped in blankets on the couch, their fathers Sahil and Yugant keeping a watchful eye on them.

"Should we wake them up now?" Sahil whispered to Yugant, who shook his head. "Let them sleep a little longer. We still have time."

Just then, Dhara entered the living room, a light scarf draped over her shoulders. "Jaydeep and Aniket bhai are loading the car. We should be leaving soon!"

Kiansha glanced at the clock. "Okay, I'll go check on them!" She hurried toward the front door, eager to see the preparations.

Outside, the car was being loaded with suitcases and bags.Aniket and Jaydeep were both lifting heavy bags, grunting slightly with effort.

"Careful with that one!" Jaydeep called to Aniket as he hoisted a suitcase a bit too close to the edge of the trunk.

"Got it! Just a little more... there we go!" Aniket replied, securing it in place before stepping back to admire their handiwork.

As Kiansha approached, she heard laughter from behind her. Swati and Aashika had just returned from freshening up,both of them with big smiles on their faces.

"Everything ready?" Aashika asked, looking around at the bustling scene.

"Almost! Just a few more bags, and then we're off!" Kiansha said, her excitement bubbling over.

Swati chimed in, "I can't wait to see how beautiful the venue will be. Did you see the pictures Dhriti shared? It looks stunning!"

"I know! The flowers and decorations will be amazing," Kiansha replied, imagining the wedding festivities.

Back inside, Sahil had finally decided it was time to wake the kids."Hey, little sleepyheads! Time to wake up! We're going on an adventure!" he said cheerfully, gently shaking Anaya awake.

Anaya blinked, rubbing her eyes. "What adventure?" she mumbled in her baby voice , still half-asleep.

"We're going to Rajasthan for your Dhriti bua's wedding!" Sahil exclaimed, eliciting a sleepy giggle from her.

"Can I wear my pretty dress?" Anaya asked, suddenly alert.

"Of course! You'll look like a princess!" Sahil assured her, smiling.

As the children began to wake up, the adults gathered in the living room, chatting and sharing laughs. Kiansha joined them, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"I can't believe we're finally going!" she said, glancing at Jay, who was stretching and yawning beside her.

"Right? It's going to be amazing! Just think of all the fun we'll have!" Jay replied, grinning.

Soon, the family gathered at the door, ready to head out.With everyone dressed and prepared, they made their way to the waiting cars. The kids, now fully awake, were buzzing with energy.

Aniket,jaydeep,Nitya and Dhara in one car and Kiansha and Anaya piled into one car with Sahil and Swati, while Yugant, Aashika, and little Yug and jay hopped into the other.

"Okay, everyone buckled up?" Sahil asked, glancing back at the Kiansha and Anaya, who nodded eagerly.

"Let's go, then!" Sahil said, starting the engine.

The drive to the airport was filled with chatter and laughter.The afternoon sun streamed through the windows, warming the car as they made their way through the bustling city.

"Are you excited for the wedding?" Anaya asked Kiansha, her eyes wide with anticipation.

"Absolutely! I can't wait to get ready and dance at the all wedding functions!" Kiansha replied, her heart racing at the thought.

In the front seat, Swati turned to look at them. "And all the yummy food! Don't forget the sweets!"

"Don't worry; I'll make sure to save some for you," Kiansha teased, earning a playful pout from Anaya.

Meanwhile, in the other car, Aashika turned to Yugant."Let's just hope the weather stays nice. We don't want any surprises,", glancing out the window.

"Don't jinx it!" Yugant chuckled. "But I'll bring an umbrella just in case."

After what felt like both an eternity and a moment, they arrived at the airport.The family quickly gathered their luggage, excitement bubbling in the air as they checked in.

Aniket and Jaydeep took charge of the boarding passes while the others helped with the bags, a flurry of activity around them.

"Anaya, did you grab your bag ?" Swati asked, turning around in her seat.

"Yup!" Anaya chirped, holding it up proudly.

"Great! And Kiansha, are you ready?" Sahil asked, giving her an encouraging smile.

"Ready as I'll ever be! I can't wait to get there!" Kiansha replied, excitement in her voice.

As they boarded the plane, the atmosphere was filled with energy.The kids were buzzing with excitement, while the adults exchanged knowing smiles about the family wedding functions to come.

"Can you believe Dhriti is finally getting married?" Aashika remarked, glancing at Yugant. "It feels like just yesterday we were planning her college events together."

"Time flies, doesn't it? I'm so proud of her!" Yugant said, his eyes sparkling with pride.

"Do you remember all the crazy ideas we had for her birthday parties?" Aashika laughed. "We thought we could pull off a surprise party at midnight!"

Swati joined in, "And we ended up waking the whole neighborhood with our noise! I thought we'd get kicked out for sure!"

"Those were the best times!" Kiansha added, her face lit up with nostalgia. "We always knew how to have fun."

Finally, the plane took off, and Kiansha leaned back in her seat, glancing out the window at the landscape disappearing beneath them.

"We're going to make so many more memories at this wedding," she said, turning to Anaya. "Get ready for a lot of dancing and sweets!"

"I'm ready!" Anaya said, clapping her hands with excitement.

The next chapter of Dhriti's wedding was about to unfold in Rajasthan, and Kiansha couldn't wait to dive in

, surrounded by family and friends who were more like family.

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I know it's a boring chapter but you guys will definitely enjoy and like the upcoming chapters of this book🫡❣️🌷