The wedding was a month away.
Close enough to feel real.
Far enough to breathe.
Bridal Shopping – Morning Calm
Aditi stood in front of the mirror at Zari & Loom, one of the most exclusive bridal boutiques in the city, fabric draped over her shoulder like a promise waiting to be kept.
She wasn’t just a bride today.
She was a designer evaluating craftsmanship.
“This silk is handwoven,” she said thoughtfully, fingers gliding over the fabric.
“But the embroidery feels heavy. I want movement.”
Meera smiled proudly.
“You’ve always known exactly what you want.”
Nisha leaned against the couch.
“She’s designing half of it herself, aunty. Bride with a blueprint.”
Aditi laughed softly.
Her phone buzzed.
Arjun:
Still alive in bridal land?
She smiled and typed back.
Aditi:
Barely. These lehengas are dramatic.
Arjun:
Just like their future groom.
She rolled her eyes—but her cheeks warmed.
A Glimpse of Him
Arjun arrived later—invited, but warned.
“Only opinions,” Aditi said, mock-stern.
“No control.”
He raised both hands.
“I’m here to admire. And carry bags.”
When he saw her standing there—fabric wrapped around her, hair loosely pinned—
Something in his expression softened completely.
“You’re glowing,” he said quietly.
She tilted her head.
“That’s the lighting.”
“That’s pride,” he corrected.
Their eyes held.
Longer than necessary.
Nisha cleared her throat loudly.
“Okay lovers, this is a public space.”
Businesses That Grow Together
As Aditi discussed customization details with the boutique owner, Arjun listened quietly.
“You’re expanding fast,” he said later.
“Your brand’s name is everywhere.”
She nodded.
“Aarvi Atelier just signed a retail partnership. I’m scared… but excited.”
He smiled.
“Fear usually means growth.”
She looked at him.
“And Malhotra Global Ventures just got you an award.”
He shrugged.
“Team effort.”
She stepped closer, voice softer.
“I’m proud of you.”
That did it.
His hand settled at her waist instinctively.
Steady. Familiar.
“Careful,” he murmured.
“I’m already undone.”
The Award Night – Evening Elegance
The ballroom shimmered with lights.
Aditi stood beside Arjun, dressed in an elegant midnight-blue saree—simple, powerful, confident.
When his name was announced—
“Best Businessman of the Year – Arjun Malhotra, CEO of Malhotra Global Ventures.”
The applause thundered.
Aditi clapped hardest.
When he took the stage, his eyes searched the crowd—and found her.
“This award,” he said into the mic,
“is for the people who stand beside you while you build.
Not behind. Not ahead. Beside.”
Her chest tightened.
A Quiet Moment After
Later, away from cameras and conversations, they stood near the balcony.
“You did great,” she said.
“So did you,” he replied.
“Your name came up tonight. People are watching Aarvi Atelier.”
She smiled softly.
“Feels surreal.”
He stepped closer, voice low.
“One month,” he said.
“And I still want you choosing yourself every day.”
She looked up at him.
“And choosing us,” she added.
His thumb brushed her waist gently.
“Always.”
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