...AHANA'S POV...

"I can't, grandpa! Dad!. I don't want to get married. I am still 29.

"That's what I am saying. You are 29!

Girls marry at 22 or 24. You are 5 to 7 years older.. My dad said

My family only consisted of my dad, grandpa, and grandma.

My mom died giving birth to me. I had only seen her photo. But I am absolutely sure that I am perfectly like her.

She was the most beautiful and strong woman on Earth. I miss her with all my heart.

Mom... Wherever you are, I know you are watching me, and you are always with me. I want to just tell you that I love you and I miss you.

My dad didn't marry again. He loved my mother a lot.

He loves me too, and I love him more than anyone else, but life has been too difficult for us.

He was surely the MD of 'Sehgal Enterprises and had become the #1 business tycoon in the country. As a person, he was very introverted.

He had always showered me with love and never considered me less than anyone else.

I was given the best upbringing, and I didn't demand anything more.

And more than anything else, I had my Ma, aka my Grandma, with me.

I was an IIM pass out with absolute distinction.

Companies were dying to give me jobs, but my grandpa had already appointed me as a manager at Segal's. Of course, family business And I did very well for the company.

Within 2 years, I was announced as the CEO.

They had faith in me, which I didn't let down. The company has been doing well and has been in its best condition since its start.

We were a family, but I didn't share a strong bond with anyone except my grandma. She has always been there for me, despite her age.

I was interrupted in my thoughts.

"Ahana, where in the world are you lost? Can't you hear what we are saying??"My grandpa was shouting. He was really agitated.

" Ma... Please ask them to at least consider my request.."Grandma gave them a pleasing look. But they seemed impervious to everything.

"Look, I don't need anymore arguments. It's just one thing that we have asked you to give us.

It's for your benefit, and think about the company, Ahana.

Think about the profit. And he is a good man. You have known him since you were a teenager.. My dad said

"I have never even spoken to him. If you consider only glancing at one another in business meetings or parties to be knowing each other, then it's pathetic.

It's marriage. We don't even love each other."

"Then do you have a boyfriend? Do you love someone else? Answer me,  Ahana?

"What if I do?" No, I didn't have a boyfriend. I wasn't even actually dating someone.

Frankly, I don't have any friends here. I had one, but it was far away. So I was single, but I needed something to defend myself.

"Then forget whoever that is. And you will have to live with him. With love or without it,

So I failed in my plan to fool them.

Hard luck, Ahana...

Saying so, both my dad and grandpa left.

While leaving, Grandpa said,

'' Remember, Ahana, we have just asked for one thing. That's Final. No more discussion."

I was left with only Ma. I hugged her and cried.

Yes, they did just ask for one thing from me. But it was more than anything else in the world.

They were just dealing me off like a business deal. I don't even know what the other person feels or thinks.

I don't know why this merger even needed to take place. We were doing the best in the whole country.

When I asked Grandpa, all he replied was," You won't understand". It's important.....

I am the CEO of that company. How could they ignore me?

Ma took me toward my bed and patted me.

I asked her to leave. She must even be tired.

As soon as she left, I got up and went to the bathroom. I cried my heart out. It felt good.

When there is pain in our hearts, it lightens as tears find their way out.

"So, Ahana." Be ready for the new life that awaits you. Don't forget, you are doing this for your family."

I was talking to myself now. I had to be strong.

I have to think about my family and the 'Sehgal Enterprises'. This marriage will do wonders for it.

And I was the one who had to do that.

                           ***

I woke up early. The entire pillow was still wet. I was not able to sleep well. Tossing and turning the entire night.

I changed and went downstairs for breakfast. Everyone was already there. I gave my full performance of excellence.

I smiled and tried to be as warm as always.

"Good morning  guys.

They seemed surprised. But then they hurt. Giving me warm smiles.

"Ahana, we will be going to Raichand's this evening.

Please wrap up your work early and be at your best. They want the bride and groom to see each other."

The words bride and groom made me shiver. I didn't want to get married forcefully. But I wasn't given a choice.

"Of course. Ma will help me get the best dress. Isn't it, Ma?"

She gave me a surprising look and then nodded.

She must be thinking about what caused a sudden change of heart overnight.

But, sweetie, migraines do happen overnight. Don't they? Maybe this may not be a miracle, but I won't call it a curse for sure.

In the evening, I returned home early. I was not at all excited about meeting them, but I had to pretend.

"Ahana, you don't need to do this. Please. "

Ma was helping me get ready. I didn't answer.

"You can run away. They are too mean toward you. Time has been cruel. It has drained them of emotion.

You are an independent woman. You can do well for yourself.

You can always live the life you have imagined for yourself.

I'll be very happy wherever you go, and be safe with a huge smile on your face."

"It's easy to say, Ma. But it's very difficult to do.

And running away. Ha! Run away from my family. I don't even have many friends.

I have only you in this world. I run like a coward so that people can see how fragile and weak I am. Even a boy must go through all this.

I am pretty sure he must also not want all this to happen.

Run away from all the hard work I have given to this company.

 Never.

I'll fight this and try to make our marriage work, I promise.

Although it's on the foundation of some businesses,

Of course, relationships can't be made through business deals. But mine is, and the world will see that there is nothing that Ahana Segalis not capable of.

Be it getting married to a stranger. "

I know that I was saying too much, but I needed that to make me feel strong, and you know what? It felt better.

Ma was crying. I tried not to cry and to be strong.

I won't cry anymore. I have done good for myself till now and will do so in the future.

I'll live my life as I have planned and work hard.

We gave a warm hug to each other, and it was the best feeling in the world.

to be near someone whom we love dearly.

Raichand's mansion 

                         ***

Raichand's was a huge mansion. No doubt, they must be very rich and powerful.

We were welcomed with drinks.

In a minute, Mr. Yashraj Raichand and his son, Mr. Raj Raichand, came.

I had seen both in our business meeting.

Ansh was nowhere to be seen. Yes, I knew his name. Ansh Raichand. My to-be husband

'' Hello. Mr. Rajveer Segal: " That was my father hugging Ansh's father.

'' Hi, Mr. Veer Segal." That was my grandpa hugging Ansh's grandfather. No doubt both families had so much in common.

Even the names of the father and son were connected to each other. That surprised me a lot.

I wonder why Ansh had such a different name.

Also, from what I knew, Ansh's mother died after giving birth to him.

We had so much in common. He didn't have his grandma. The poor guy had no motherly love at all.

I really pity him. I didn't know how she died.

"Welcome, Mrs. Segal. Welcome to the family.

"My grandma's name was Sita. She really was that divine.

I doubt how she managed Grandpa. He loves her and has obeyed her until now. They are lovebirds.

I was forging a smile when all the reunion things were going on. I felt like I was out of this family thing.

I have started speaking to myself too much now.

" Oh! Ahana. You look amazing.. Was it necessary? It was Ansh's dad. My to-be dad.

"Thank you, uncle." I said. I have met him, but it was always for formal reasons.

"Don't call me Uncle, dear. Call me Dad. Ansh does so, and so will you."

So it had already begun.

I can't even imagine how things are going to change.

"I must say, Rajveer. We are lucky to have a daughter-in-law like Ahana. We really are." Mr. Yashraj was saying

"I swear she is luckier." My father replied, beaming.

I must say I am the unluckiest of all.

"Dear Ahana, you must be bored. I forgot to say that Ansh is waiting for you upstairs on the terrace.. Mr. Raj said

"The maid will escort you there. And yes, please don't take too long, or else the dinner will get cold."

Everyone was laughing. Ma gave me an approving look. I think grandpa saw it.

"Ahana, he's your husband. You don't need anyone's permission," Dad said. Why is it that he always has to act like that?

It was my marriage, and I had to be excited, but it turns out that, except me, everyone else was overjoyed.

They had already bonded before even meeting one another.

Suppressing the awkward feeling, I followed the maid.

I hadn't even seen his face properly before. We have never interacted with each other, even in meetings. Our dads always did the work for us.

I didn't know what kind of person my husband was. I hope everything turns out to be good.

A good conversation is all that we need now.

Fingers crossed, and let's hope for the best.

____________________________________

AHANA'S POV

The maid escorted me to a large terrace, which was on the third floor of the mansion.

Although I didn't know her, I wanted her to stay.

I hate failing, so I didn't want to fail in the most important phase of my life.

The sun had set. It was dark around.

Amidst the dimly lit terrace, I saw a guy, his back towards me,staring at the mundane sky.

Even the atmosphere seemed unhappy tonight. He had a glass in his hand. OMG! Was he really drinking?

" Hey! Dear Wife. Welcome aboard."

He turned around. Ansh. He was quite tall, with, I think, brown eyes.

It's what I could see in the dark. He was wearing a navy blue tuxedo.

He was a well-built, slim man. I could see his chiseled chest through his linen shirt.

His hair was neatly done in spikes. It looked nice. His body was just perfect.

Maybe the credit goes to the gym. His muscles and body clearly portrayed that this marriage was going to break a lot of hearts.

Oh God, I was thinking too much already.

I don't even know him.

Of course, he mustn't be single.

I wonder why he agreed to the marriage.

He must have some hot supermodels head over heels.

"What are you gaping at? I swear you haven't seen such a handsome and sexy man earlier.. He said this, smirking.

Yes, he is good-looking, but he is too arrogant. I had to show off some attitude.

"Why are you drinking?"

"So, I have already taken the wife's role seriously.

Look, I don't like to be ordered around. It's just that Granddad has asked me to meet you; that's why.

Anyway, you got what you wanted."

"What did I want?"

"Stop acting. You wanted to marry me, so it's happening.

"I wanted to marry you!"Wake up, Mr. Raichand.

I wouldn't marry someone like you, even in my dreams."

"What do you mean, someone like me?" He growled, coming near me. But I stood still. I was not afraid of him.

"From our very first meeting, I can tell that you are arrogant, selfish, and mean."

Before I could completely describe him, he captured me in his strong arms, making sure I couldn't move.

"Dare you say anything about me? Remember, you are going to be my wife now.

So be nice. You are lucky to have me as your husband."

Saying so, he smiled and jerked me. Never in my life has anyone spoken to me like this.

I swear he'll hear from me soon.

"Look, Ansh, I am marrying you just because my dad wants it.

I can't deny him. But why are you agreeing? And you know what I am—the unluckiest of all."

"We have all had similarities, Ahana. That is the reason, "he said, looking into my eyes.

"They must be waiting downstairs for us, "he continued. What did he mean by saying so?

I hate him already. I never thought he would be so rude.

He's impossible.

"Are you waiting for Christmas? ''

"Where's the washroom?"

"Towards your left. Come fast. I hate waiting."

I gave him a look. And I hate you.

I went into the bathroom to wash my face.

There were tears in my eyes. I was trying to control them, but they were not stopping.

There was still pain in my arms. How could he do that? We just met. I quickly wiped my face and rushed out. He was leaning against the stairs.

No one can say that such a handsome face has the heart of a devil.

He came and held my hands in his. We had to do so in front of our family.

"Ahana is crying already. It's just the beginning."

How did he know that? I was already exhausted.

I didn't want to reply to him. But if he considers me weak, then he had better watch out.

I'll show him what game he has gotten into.

We went downstairs hand in hand. Our family was chatting like they had known each other for years.

I didn't care. Ma looked at me and smiled. I returned the gesture.

"Look at the love birds. Already so much in love." It was Ansh's father. Why was he saying all this?

We both kept quiet. I am glad Ansh didn't answer back.

He seemed too quick at those things. But I think he respects his dad and granddad a lot.

"Come on, kids. Actually, we were planning a marriage.

The Pandit said that the 3rd of February, which is two weeks from now, is the best day. "

My father said Everyone was so happy.

Ansh was also smiling all the time. I must admit what a fine actor he is.

Sometime ago, an arrogant person and the next a jolly good fellow

How well he knew everyone. He was constantly on his toes, helping his father and grandfather. They share a great bond.

"Ahana, Ma is outside, taking a stroll in the garden.

She was bored with the business talks. Can you fetch her in? Because now the topic might interest her."

"Of course, Dad. Which way?"

I asked.

"Never fear when Ansh is here. I'll show you.

This way, sweetie." Ansh jumped in and did something I didn't expect. He held my hand.

Everyone was staring at us now, with a grin on their faces.

Why in the world was he doing this? It made me feel embarrassed.

It looks like I am the one causing all the problems at such a picture-perfect wedding. Oh God!

When we went out of everyone's sight, I jerked his hand away.

I knew that no one was looking at us now.

I gave him a look.

"Why, Ansh? Why are you doing all this?"

"I want everyone to be happy. Be it at anyone's cost.

I don't care."

I hate being near him. I was about to get married to this person in 2 weeks, and I am already feeling disgusted.

"You can stay here near the flowers so that they can impart their beauty to you. I'll fetch Ma."

"So you are saying I am ugly? And no one calls her 'MA' but me". I gave him a pointed look while folding my hands.

"I didn't say that either. Hang on."

Why was he doing all this? He can't call her Ma. She's mine. Then I saw the garden.

I hadn't noticed it earlier. It was huge—bigger than ours too. There were different kinds of flowers.

Some I recognized, while others I didn't. It was beautiful.

Orchids, lilies, roses, sunflowers, peonies, and many more It was well maintained and decorated.

The white fountain in the middle added to its beauty.

Then I heard two voices laughing. I very well recognized both of them.

I turned around and saw Ma and Ansh coming towards me, holding hands.

Why was Ma holding his hand? Obviously, she didn't know him well. They neared me, and soon I replaced Ansh's hand with mine.

"That's so rude. Isn't it, Ma?"

Ansh said, looking toward her.

She just smiled, patting his cheeks.

"Ma, ask him not to call you Ma. Only I can do so."

"I already asked her. She said that we are one, Ahana. I don't know when you will realize that. It's better if you face reality."

I looked at her. She gave an approving look at me.

'' It's fine, Ahana. It feels equally good to hear from both of you."

I nodded, defeated. Ansh gave an evil smile at me.

He again held her hand and led her inside. I followed them.

He was already snatching things that belonged to me.

"So, I think the team's already been made an Ansh. Don't worry, Ahana; we are in one team.

"It was Mr. Yashraj, Ansh's grandad said to me.

I faked a smile.

I was not at all comfortable. No wonder Ansh got so mixed up with everyone.

I was still trying, whereas he seemed to know everyone for years.

If he is trying to defeat me, then I'll show him that I am the best.

'' Of course, granddad. It's high time I had a good team.. I said this to Ansh's grandpa.

To which everyone was laughing.

"Beware, Ahana, I have the most beautiful lady with me. Isn't it grandpa?"

Ansh said, looking at my grandfather with a teasing glint in his eyes. He blushed.

I loved seeing both of them together. I think my dad has this trait of loving from him.

He, too, loved my mom so much. I wish she had been there. Then I saw Ansh; he too seemed to be missing someone.

Suddenly, he saw me. Our eyes met, but he quickly turned away.

"The important topic is the venue for the marriage.

and other ceremonies. I hope we don't cut them down."

"Of course not. This is the first marriage in the family and maybe it might be the last, so I want my Ahana to have the most amazing marriage. " Ma said.

Yes, the most amazing marriage to the most cocky, arrogant person.

Everyone agreed. The marriage has to be on a large scale because it is basically for publicity. That was the most important part. Publicity.

Later, everyone was busy discussing the arrangements, to which I nodded.

It was decided that Ansh and I would have to go to the designers to finalize the dresses since they needed to be matched for all the ceremonies.

Both the fathers decided that the magnificent guest list would be ready in a day's time.

The list of ceremonies included:

The Mehendi

The Haldi

The Sangeet, along with a cocktail party

The bachelor party (It's not a ceremony, although it's an important part of it.)

The marriage, the reception, and finally, not to forget, the honeymoon

Of all the topics, everyone pulled their legs on the last one. Ansh was smiling all the time. He looked the most excited of all. I don't know what was going on in his mind.

I wanted a wedding like this but had never imagined it this way. I thought of marrying someone I love. But destiny always has better plans, I suppose.

We had a conversation during dinner, too.

Everyone was very happy and cheerful because a big merger was going to follow. This was something that brought lots of profit to everyone.

They ought to be happy.

Ma. Maybe I was happy for myself. She always wanted me to be happy.

After dinner, they dropped us off where our car was waiting.

Thankfully, Ansh and I didn't have a talk.

But unfortunately, we have to meet again tomorrow for the trials and finalize the dresses because in two days all the ceremonies will begin.

All four men were pretty eager to get us married off.

Finally, I returned to my house. I quickly got to my room and jumped on my bed. I had to cancel all my meetings for the coming days.

Phew!! Finally, some peace.

I heard a knock on the door.

"Aha, sweetie. Are you awake? I want to talk to you."

It was Ma.

What did she want to talk about?

____________________________________

AHANA'S POV

"Of course, Ma. You don't need permission. I was about to go to sleep, but it couldn't wait. I said.

She came in and sat beside me.

"Maybe when I am saying this, you might feel offended or think that I am speaking rubbish. But you have all the right to think, so... "

" No! Ma. Never... " I was about to continue when she held my palm in hers.

"Ansh is a good man. Believe me. You'll truly be happy with him. I am very happy for you."

I didn't want to answer her back. She had all the rights over me. If she thinks so about him, then I trust her completely. I don't even trust myself.

She continued.

"He is definitely in some pain, which he hides from everyone, but his eyes always show the truth.

Try seeing that. He was not able to hide that from me. He is very kind at heart. Trust me, Aha."

I nodded.

"It's fine if you don't believe me. You have all your reasons. Good night.

You have many long days ahead."

I completely trusted her.

 And I promise to make things work.

***

"Ahana, blue perfectly suits you. You look amazing. And interestingly, Ansh, you too look handsome in sky blue."

That was coming from my designer, Fray. She was the best in Mumbai. The dress was for our Sangeet ceremony.

She had to compliment us, as we were paying her so much.

"Thank you. We ought to look our best." Ansh said, smiling.

But actually, he was looking good. Ma was with us. She was the happiest of all.

So it all finally begins.

The guest list was ready, and the invitations were sent.

The wedding cards were the costliest and had a sweet smell to them.

Along with the cards, a large box of sweets was also sent. It truly was a grand wedding.

We all had to meet at Raichand's mansion this afternoon to finalize the decorations.

Ansh and I hadn't spoken too much. Anyway, it felt better that way. I wanted everything to finish as soon as possible.

The work was becoming affected.

We reached there one by one, had lunch, and gathered in the living area.

Everyone had gotten a bit close and comfortable with one another.

The relatives had already arrived and were given accommodation.

"So, Ansh and Ahana, we have decided to give you both your wedding gifts.

"My dad said. Ansh's dad was smiling all the time.

I had somewhat guessed what it could be. I looked at Ansh and noticed he was looking at me too.

"Your honeymoon. I have decided it's going to be in Switzerland, and then from there you can decide whichever place you wish to explore.

A month or two if you want, "he said. Everyone clapped. It wasn't at all necessary.

"It's too long." We both said it together. I looked at him.

"Yes, Dad. Already, lots of work is pending, and wasting so much time is worthless. I think a week is more than enough, '' I said.

Ansh, too, agreed. Finally, we agreed on something in common.

"Only a week. Are you serious? It's fine. We can manage without you.

You must get to know each other. Already, the wedding is happening in a rush." Ansh's dad said

"We have our entire life to know one another.

And I think Switzerland is fine. We have some clients there, so we can meet them up." Ansh said.

"No work, dear. What will you do in one week? We'll extend that to two weeks. You can explore nearby places, "he said.

"But, Dad..." We both said it together. I don't know why we were syncing everything together today.

"No more arguments." Both the dads said it together. Which again resulted in huge laughter.

I think Ansh and I will never win in front of our families.

***

The ceremonies began in full swing. All my uncles, aunties, first cousins, and second cousins had already gathered.

All the business partners were also invited.

I had only a few friends from college who joined me. We had all our ceremonies in the grandest hotel in the city. THE TAJ... In Colaba, facing the humongous sea.

Our Sangeet and Mehendi ceremony was in THE TRIDENT, on Nariman Point, facing the violent sea.

All the guests had already arrived at the venue. I was standing in front of a huge glass window, and the setting sun was a sight to behold.

It gave me immense calmness and energy.

Just then, I felt a tap on my shoulder.

"Ahana, seriously, you have finally found a suitable and most eligible bachelor.

I must say he is very handsome. If you are still confused, I can give it a try. Tiara, my close friend, said, winking at me.

She was already engaged to Kay. He was also a classmate.

Saying so in front of him caused angry exchanges of looks. She was smiling.

"Just kidding, sweetie. Ahana, he is all yours. And the mehendi looks amazing. I thanked her. It was my Mehendi ceremony. Tiara was already with her husband.

Everyone was dancing and making merry. Tomorrow is the Haldi ceremony.

Just then, Dad came.

"It looks beautiful. And you, my little girl, look amazing. I am very happy for you. He was looking emotional.

"Thanks, Dad."

"You are happy, Ahana." Yes. If all this makes you happy, then I am more than happy." I had to be happy.

***

I was all in yellow today. It was a Haldi ceremony. I had to wear yellow.

In this tradition, people apply a paste of turmeric to you because it is believed that by doing so, the bride will glow during her marriage.

Indian traditions are the most creative of all.

Surely the wedding planners had done a great job by arranging the things perfectly according to both families needs.

It was a perfect thing that anyone would wish for.

So Filmy!!

Of course they had to. We were paying them in six digits for it. I know that I am thinking a bit monetarily, but we have invested a lot in this. I had to account for it since I was also a businesswoman.

My friends didn't leave a chance to cover me up.

Even Ansh was covered in yellow turmeric. His friends were even more violent than mine. I didn't know them, but I assumed so.

I hadn't spoken to him for a few days. It felt like I was marrying a complete stranger.

But now it didn't matter because it was my destiny.

And I had to face it.