hey say small victories make life beautiful.

Last night, when Papa finally said yes, I wanted to shout and dance and throw pillows in the air like a filmy heroine. Of course, I didn't. I just smiled, nodded with controlled excitement, and walked out of the drawing room like a "sanskari" daughter. But the moment I entered my room, I did a silent victory dance near my bed.

Five days in Udaipur. For my best friend's wedding....

This was going to be the best trip ever. I mean yeah I went on my school trips and also some international trip with my family and specially with my friends, lying to my parents that it's for some clg project and all. But this time me with my bestie in luxurious palace. And the best part? It wasn't even a vacation. It was my best friend's wedding. That made it feel more personal... more magical.

But of course, I couldn't leave Jaipur without making sure everything at college was sorted.

I checked the date again on my calendar as I walked toward the library block. Three more days. 15 more days and I'd be boarding the morning train to Udaipur. Kavya already sent me pictures of the palace where the wedding would take place. Her fiancé's family is old-money royal. Like those Rajput families who still live in havelis with guards and antique clocks.

Her soon to be husband's family is super rich. It's not like I'm poor. My daddy is also rich. He owns big tech company. But it's not big as them. They make yacht. Like seriously they make big fucking yachts.

I want my future husband to propose me on yacht.

Dreaming isn't crime ladies!!!

I tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear and pulled my phone out. The moment I unlocked it, Kavya's name popped up on the screen. Voice note.

"Mayruuu, I just picked my wedding lehenga. Though I'm not interested in this wedding. It's too pretty. You'll love it too. Udaipur's waiting for you... Come fast."

I laughed out loud, earning a few glances from students on the pathway. I didn't care.

"Kavya, stop being dramatic," I whispered, replying back with my own voice note. "I'm coming... Don't get married before I reach."

As I crossed the admin building, I slowed down. My college campus always had this odd mix of chaos and peace. One side would be bursting with noisy groups, the other completely quiet like life was reminding me that both can exist together. I liked that. I liked balance.

I wanted to become an engineer, and I had work hard for it. Because my father had invested so much of himself into mine. Though he is business and was busy still he stayed up till mid night with me during my board exams, he used to check my mock test results before I even opened my email. He did everything what one great father do for his child And finnally here i am.

He was strict, yes. But I don't mind it too much. Cause he had his own reasons. He wanted to see me succesful. This is my last year and after it I'll join my dad's company.

He sometimes raised his voice unnecessarily. He also behaves dramatic sometimes. And sometimes he could make me feel like I'd disappointed the entire family tree. And the other second he'll behave like I'm their only daughter and my brother and sister doesn't even exist.

But isn't that normal behavior of fathers?. It is normal. My sister is 3 years older than me. And currently trying to convince my parents that she is too young to get married. And my brother who is 5 year younger than me just enjoy the family drama. Cause there is no way to win infront of my father.

But Kavya? I was her favorite. And she was mine. That was enough.

I climbed the library steps, deciding to submit my project printouts early. It felt like checking off one more box before my escape. Because yes this wedding was also a sweet little escape from the routines of my life.

As I entered the printing room, our professor Akshay Chawla nodded at me. "All set for your friend's wedding, Mayra?"

I smiled. "Almost, sir. I'll submit everything before I leave." he is the youngest professor of our university and handsome too. And I know him from years. He were computer teacher in my high school. Girls never miss his lectures. But for me he is my teacher. He is not too old but I give him respect like that. After all I'm calling him a sir from last 6 years.

"You're one of the rare students who plan things ahead. I like that."

I thanked him politely and got back to my task, heart a little warmer. Sometimes, a tiny compliment like that made my whole day.

I was still smiling at my screen when a light smack landed on the back of my head.

I didn't even bother turning. "Aarav," I muttered, rubbing the spot.

"You guessed it right, baby!!"

"You're the only one who greets people with physical assault."

He chuckled, leaning over my table. "And you're the only one who still falls for it every single time."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't hide my smile. Aarav-my male bestie since childhood, Mine and Kavya's partner in every disaster since kindergarten. He didn't need an introduction, his presence itself was a comfort I'd grown up with.

He dropped into the chair beside me, tapping his fingers against the desk. "So, madam organized student, what's next on your grand plan?"

I grinned. "Packing. Kavya's wedding, remember? I told you I'm going 3-4 days early where all the youngsters will enjoy this wedding in their own way. And you are coming too!!"

Aarav raised a brow. "Ohh, you mean the one where Gen Z ruins centuries of tradition for their feed aesthetics."

"Exactly," I said, laughing. "It's going to be crazy. We'll have a fun."

But the way his smile softened made me pause.

"Nope," he said quietly, "we won't."

I blinked. "What do you mean?"

He looked down, almost hesitant. "You remember my dream company in London I told you about?"

My heart sank before he even said it.

"They offered me a two-month internship," he continued, voice low. "I have to leave next week. If I don't take it, I'll lose the chance. And you know my dad ,he already wants me to handle the family business. I barely managed to convince him that I'll join it after I come back."

"Oh," I said softly.

He gave a small laugh that didn't reach his eyes. "I really wanted to attend Kavya's wedding. Wanted to dance like an idiot on-" he started singing dramatically,

"Jiski shaadi mein jaana... jaake usko samjhaana... na kar shaadi, hai yeh barbaadi..."

His voice cracked halfway through the teasing tone, and despite his grin, I saw the sadness hiding there.

For a second, my chest tightened. Aarav always laughed things off, but that voice, that cracked smile it told me more than words could.

"It's okay," I said softly. "Kavya will understand. We all will. You can't miss something you've worked so hard for."

He looked up, a small, boyish smile returning to his face. "Still... don't worry. I'll be there at your wedding. No matter what."

I laughed, even as warmth spread through me. "Oh really? You'll come just to dance on your tragic playlist again?"

He shrugged, flashing that polite, sweet grin that always made everything feel lighter. "Obviously. Someone has to embarrass you publicly."

---

That evening, I sat on our terrace with a cup of elaichi chai in my hands. The sky was painted in soft orange and pink strokes, like someone had brushed it gently with pastel colors. Our neighborhood was unusually quiet today. Even the kids who played cricket near the gate seemed to be missing.

I wrapped my dupatta around my shoulders and closed my eyes for a moment.

In a few days, I'd be in Udaipur. Among people I didn't know. In a royal wedding of my best friend.

"Mayra?" Ma's voice floated up from the staircase. "Dinner is ready."

"Coming!" I called back.

I took one last sip of my tea, letting the warmth stay a little longer on my tongue, and stood up, took a deep breath, and walked downstairs, my heart lighter than it had been in weeks.

When I entered the dining area, the familiar, comfortable chaos of my family greeted me.

Papa was at his usual spot, quietly focused on his plate, eating in that same disciplined rhythm he always had. His eyes occasionally flicked toward the news on the wall-mounted TV, brows furrowed like he wanted to argue with the anchor but wouldn't waste his energy. Krisha, my elder sister, had just returned from her office and looked every bit the corporate soldier tired eyes, hair tied up in a lazy bun, eating with practiced, silent elegance. As always, her calmness filled the room like lavender.

Ansh, my little brother, was in his own world, as usual. He was jabbering non-stop, telling Ma about some drama at school involving a paper ball fight and his principal nearly catching him red-handed. He was laughing like a maniac, eyes wide with excitement, bits of rice falling from his mouth. He was annoying undeniably but in the kind of way that made your heart soften.

And me? I sat down at the table with the kind of smile that felt too big for my face. Like my long-time crush had finally proposed to me with a rose and lovely poetry in British accent. My cheeks were hurting from grinning. I kept it lowkey, though. Tried not to look like an idiot. But inside? Fireworks.

I was going to Udaipur....

Dinner went on as usual. Papa asked Krisha about her day. Ma kept refilling everyone's plates. Ansh dropped his spoon twice. I stayed quiet mostly, nodding, eating, floating in my own little dreamy bubble.

After we finished, everyone slowly drifted off to their rooms. Papa took the newspaper, Ma went to check the laundry, and ansh God bless that energy ball ran to his room to finish some chart work he probably forgot till the last minute.

I changed into my nightwear, tied my hair up in a loose bun, and was just about to open my laptop when I heard a gentle knock on the door.

"Come in," I called, assuming it was Ma.

But it was Krisha didi.

She walked in like she owned the place, which she kind of did. She had that elder-sister energy tired but graceful, serious but full of love. She didn't even ask for permission before collapsing dramatically on my bed like it had been waiting for her all day.

I laughed. "You okay?"

She stared at the ceiling and then turned to look at me. "Why were you smiling so much at dinner? What's going on, hmm? Are you in love or something?"

I choked on air. "WHAT?! Are you out of your mind? No, Didi! Of course not. I'm just excited because... I'm going to Udaipur. For Kavya's wedding. Finally!"

She raised an eyebrow. "We're all going to the wedding, Mayra. What's new in that?"

I rolled my eyes and leaned against the wardrobe. "Yeah, but I'm going early. In some days. I'll be staying there for 6 full days. I'll be there 3 days earlier.Alone. without all of you!"

Krisha gasped. She literally sat up like I told her I got selected for a NASA mission.

"Wait, what?! Seriously? Five days? Wow...!!"

I giggled and nodded. "I know right?! It's going to be so much fun. Finally a break. And a royal wedding, at that. I mean, I don't even know half the people there, but still!"

She got off the bed and hugged me tight. "I'm so happy for you, mayraaaa!!. I hope you make some beautiful memories."

I rested my head on her shoulder. For all our fights and differences, she always knew how to make me feel seen.

She pulled back after a moment and looked around. "So... have you done all your shopping or do you want me to help you pick stuff tomorrow?"

"Already done! I finished shopping last week with Kavya. But I do need help packing. You know how I am, I'll either forget my toothbrush or overpack like I'm moving there forever."

She laughed. "Okay, then! Tomorrow evening, it's a packing party."

We talked a little more about random things her office drama, my college lectures, the weird aunty who lives next door and then she finally stood up, stretching her arms.

"I'll let you sleep now, heroine. You've got only some days left before your break-free moment. Get your beauty sleep."

"Yes, ma'am," I saluted, watching her leave with a playful shake of her head.

As the door clicked shut behind her, the room felt quiet again. But not empty.

I switched off the main light and climbed into bed, tucking the blanket under my chin. The ceiling above me looked different tonight. Like it had secrets waiting to be discovered.

Udaipur.

Kavya.

A royal wedding.

A different life, even if just for a few days.

I didn't know what the next few weeks were going to bring. But for the first time in a long time, I wasn't scared of not knowing. I was... excited.

Maybe that was the real magic of growing up. When even uncertainty started to feel beautiful.

With a soft smile on my face, I closed my eyes. I didn't know when sleep came.

But it did, and it brought dreams filled with laughter, lights, and the sound of dhols in the distance.

Days later...

The sun had just begun to rise when the train chugged forward, whistling through the sleepy silence of early morning. My window was half open, and the crisp air brushed across my cheeks like an old friend, gentle and cool. I sat by the window seat, clutching a warm cup of chai in a paper cup, my heart beating in rhythm with the clattering tracks.

There was a certain magic in train journeys. Something about watching the world pass by in fleeting frames fields bathed in golden light, sleepy villages waking up, chaiwalas running along the platform with clinking kettles it all made me feel like I was moving not just through distance, but time.

And this time, my destination felt different. Special.

A smile tugged at the corners of my lips, refusing to go away. I'd barely slept the night before not out of anxiety, but excitement. My packed bags were tucked safely above, my playlist was playing low in one ear, and my heart? It was soaring.

The train finally began to slow down as we approached Udaipur station. I leaned forward slightly, peeking out as the city began to come into view. I'd been here before, yes but always for a day or two, short visits with Kavya where we were rushed and always watched.

As the train pulled into the platform with a final screech, I gathered my things and stepped down onto the station. The sun was up now, bathing everything in soft, golden light. I pulled out my phone to check the message from Kavya once more.

K: "My fiance's friend will pick you up. His name's Kartik. I've sent his picture below. He's sweet, don't worry. Just go with him and reach home. I'm helping in decorating for my upcoming unwanted marriage, so I can't come! But I'll be waiting. 💋"

I chuckled at her chaotic texting energy and scanned the crowd.

And there he was.
Kartik.

He stood near the car parking area, leaning against a black SUV with sunglasses perched on his head. He looked exactly like the picture Kavya had sent tall, casually dressed in a light shirt and jeans, and a calm confidence in his posture like he belonged everywhere. He held a small cardboard with my name scrawled in bold letters.

I walked up to him, rolling my suitcase behind me.

"Welcome to Udaipur" he said with warm smile.

"Hi... Kartik, right?" I asked, offering a polite smile.

He looked up from his phone and nodded. "Yes and you are mayra."

"Yes. Thanks for coming to pick me up. Kavya's stuck in wedding prep mode, I guess?"

He smiled, a friendly glint in his eyes. "You guessed right. She's on a mission. She barely lets anyone breathe. Come on, let's get you out of this chaos."

He took my bag and loaded it into the car as I slid into the front seat. The car smelled faintly of sandalwood and new leather, a weirdly calming combination.

Once we were on the road, I glanced at him sideways. "So... are you a friend of my soon-to-be jiju?"

He chuckled, eyes on the road. "Exactly not. I mean, I'm the best friend of your soon-to-be jiju's younger brother. So I guess that makes me semi-legit."

I laughed. "Ohh, okay! That sounds... specific."

"It is. The Rajawat family is like a whole universe. You'll figure it out soon enough."

I leaned back against the seat, watching the city blur past. Udaipur was already beginning to shimmer with its usual charm, lakes glistening in the sun, domes peeking through the trees, and the sound of temple bells in the distance.

"Is it your first time in Udaipur?" Kartik asked.

"No, I've come here a few times with Kavya. But just quick trips. One or two days max. I never got a chance to actually explore it."

He glanced at me briefly. "Well, this time you've got the perfect chance. Five days is enough to fall in love with this city."

I smiled. "That's true. I'm already excited."

The rest of the ride passed in a comfortable quiet. The kind that didn't feel awkward. Every once in a while, Kartik would point out something interesting ,a palace dome, a famous café, or a street where a scene from a movie was shot. But mostly, he let me soak in the view. And I did. Every inch of it.

Finally, we turned into a wide road that sloped upward gently. I sat up straight.

I knew this road.

At the end of it stood Kavya's home-the mehra mension. And there it was.

Glowing in the morning sunlight, white as moonlight and just as graceful. The walls shimmered like they were carved from old memories and laughter. It was lavish, yes, but not the kind that screamed for attention. It whispered elegance.

Flowers hung like chandeliers from the gates. Golden drapes fluttered in the breeze. The courtyard had been transformed fairy lights wound around the pillars, marigolds in thick strings adorned every visible surface, and soft music played somewhere in the background. The preparations had truly begun. The wedding isn't here but still it will be fully decorated.

It wasn't the first time I was seeing this house. But it felt different now. Bigger. Brighter. Like it was waiting for something or someone.

Before I could unbuckle my seatbelt properly, the front door burst open.

"MAYYRAAAAAA!!!"

I barely had time to react before Kavya ran down the steps like a hurricane in a pink salwar kameez, dupatta flying behind her. Her arms wrapped around me like she was trying to crush the air out of my lungs.

"You're here! You're really here! Finally! Ughhh I missed you, idiot!"

I laughed, hugging her back. "Missed you too, bridezilla. And wow, your house looks like a freaking movie set."

She pulled back, eyes shining. "You like it? There's more to see inside! Come, come! We've so much to catch up on. And I've literally waited two days to gossip properly. Come before someone drags me back for their home made facepacks."

Kartik handed me my bag with a knowing smile. "Good luck."

I grinned. "Thanks for the ride and the company."

"Anytime," he said, before heading off, probably to escape the chaos he knew was coming.

Kavya, meanwhile, had already grabbed my hand and was tugging me toward the door.

"Your room is the same, I made sure. But we added fairy lights this time. You'll love it. Also, I found your old hoodie in my closet don't ask how. AND I've hidden two chocolate bars in your drawer because I knew you'd forget to bring any."

I laughed as she kept talking, her voice a mix of excitement and relief.