The room was buzzing with excitement. Light filtered through the green-tinted curtains, casting a warm, festive glow across the decorated walls. Strings of marigold flowers and fairy lights adorned the ceiling, and the scent of fresh roses wafted in the air. Today was Khushi's mehndi, and the entire house pulsed with laughter, love, and a thousand preparations. But inside this one room, time had slowed for a moment.

Khushi sat in front of the large mirror, her dark green lehenga shimmering under the soft lights. The intricate embroidery on her blouse caught the golden hues of the room, and her dupatta, placed carefully over her shoulder, was embroidered with delicate patterns of zari and sequins. Her long hair had been styled in loose curls that cascaded over one shoulder. Her eyes sparkled with happiness, yet a nervous excitement lingered beneath them.