The hall buzzed with an energy that could only belong to a wedding event. Everywhere one looked, sequins shimmered, laughter floated, and the heady aroma of marigold and mogra hung in the air. The sangeet had officially begun—or at least, the whispers promised so.

People leaned toward one another, whispering with barely suppressed excitement, adjusting their outfits, anticipating the grandest moment of the night. All eyes flicked toward the massive door every now and then. Tarini, the bride-to-be, was yet to make her entrance. And everyone knew—when she did, it would be unforgettable.