𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟎𝟑| 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥

AUTHOR POV:

The warm morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the Rajawat mansion, casting a golden light over the dining table where the family had gathered to start their day. The soft sounds of utensils clinking against plates and light conversation filled the air as they enjoyed their breakfast.

Just then, footsteps echoed from the staircase, getting louder with each step. Everyone turned to look toward the dining room entrance, where a tall, strong figure appeared from the shadows.

Rajveer Singh Rajawat, the elder son of the Rajawat family, stood before them, his chiseled physique accentuated by a tailored two-piece suit that seemed molded to his athletic frame. His confident stride and self-assured demeanor commanded attention, and the room seemed to pause in reverence as he made his way to the table.

He settled into the middle chair at the dining table, he greeted his parents with a warm "Good morning, Ma sa and Baba sa."

They returned his greeting, their voices infused with a tender affection, "Good morning, beta."

Rajveer's mother, her eyes loving, handed him a steaming plate of breakfast. A faint cough escaped her lips as she reminded him, "Beta Raj, you know I told you we're going to see a girl for your marriage?"

He listened intently, his expression a mask of calmness.

The silence that followed was oppressive, punctuated only by the soft clinking of utensils against plates as the family members ate their breakfast. He's gaze remained fixed on his plate, his thoughts seemingly a thousand miles away.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, He broke the silence, his voice low and measured, "Ji, Ma aapne bataya tha."

( "Yes, Mom , you told me")

His mother's face lit up with a warm smile, her eyes shining with a deep affection, "Ha beta Raj, hum sab waha ja rahe hai aaj or tumhe bhi chlna pdega".

("Yes, Raj Son, we're all going today there, and you need to come too.")

Just then, his sister's Kiara voice cut through the tension, her tone playful and teasing, "Bhai sa chalo na aap bhi or dhekh Lena ki Bhabhi sa kaisi dhikhti hain".

("Bhai, come on, let's go see what our future bhabhi looks like")

The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting for his response a few minutes ticked by, the silence between them growing thicker.

He finally spoke up, his voice tinged with a hint of detachment. "Ma sa, I have an urgent meeting today, so I won't be able to make it. You all go ahead."

With that, he pushed his chair back, his eyes already distant, and rose from the table. The soft scrape of his chair against the floor seemed to echo through the room, a subtle punctuation mark to his departure.

He strode out of the dining room, the atmosphere seemed to relax, like a held breath finally released.

Kiara, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, turned to her aunt and whispered, "Chachi, where's Dhruv?"

Her aunt's response was immediate and playful. "Pata nahi, Kia betu, lagta hai so raha hoga vo Kumbhkaran".

The whole family erupted into laughter at her witty remark.

Just then, a sleepy voice drifted from behind, "Kiski baat kar rahe ho subhe - subhe?" The family turned to see Dhruv, Kiara and Rajveer's younger brother, stretching his arms and yawning.

She teased him, "Teri baat kar rahe hai, Kumbhkaran"

He made a puppy face and appealed to his badi mother, "Badi ma sa , dekho na, koi mujhse pyaar nahi karta hai."

His Badi mother's expression softened, and she showered him with affection. "Arey, mera pyara beta hai tu tho!" His face lit up with a bright smile, and he basked in his badi mother's love.

His mother's voice cut through the chatter, urging them to hurry. "Jaldi ready ho jayo, tum dono."

Dhruv's curiosity was piqued, and he asked, "Kyu, Maata shri, aaj kya hai ?"

His sister's expression was a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Arey, budhu ladke, hum sab bhabhi sa ko dekhne ja rahe hai."

Dhruv's confusion deepened, and he asked, "What? Bhabhi sa kiski shadi ho rahi hai? Aur kon kar raha hai shadhi?"

"Tu sahi mein gadha hai aaj pata chal gya hai , Rajveer Bhai sa ki" She playfully slapped her forehead.

Just then, his aunt and uncle intervened, "Chalo, baate baad mein karna tum dono, abhi jake ready ho jayo, tum sab." The room erupted into a flurry of activity as everyone scrambled to get ready, amidst laughter and playful teasing.

AT CHAHUAN MANSION:

The Chahuan house was glowing with vibrant lights, adorned with colorful flowers that made it look nothing short of a dream. It was a special day-Saanvi's prospective groom and his family were coming to see her for marriage. The entire house buzzed with excitement, as family members and staff hurried around, ensuring everything was perfect.

Amidst the preparations, Tanvi Singh Rathore moved around with a sharp eye for detail. She wasn't just Saanvi's best friend; she was like family. She adjusted flower arrangements, gave instructions to the decorators, and made sure everything was in place.

"Bhaiya, move the flower hangings a little to the left. It looks uneven," she instructed one of the helpers, her voice calm but firm.

Just then, a familiar, affectionate voice came from behind.

"Tanvi beta, if you weren't here, I don't know how we would have managed all this."

Saanvi's mother approached her with a warm smile, gently placing a hand on her head. The gesture was filled with gratitude and affection, as if Tanvi were her own daughter.

"Aunty, don't worry, I'm here," Tanvi reassured her with a bright smile.

Saanvi's mother nodded but her expression turned serious as she checked the time.

"Beta, go get ready and make sure Saanvi and Ishika are ready too. They'll be here by 11 o'clock."

Tanvi gave a quick nod before hurrying towards Saanvi's room. Meanwhile, Saanvi's mother turned back to the ongoing preparations, ensuring everything was set for the big moment.

SAANVI POV:

I sat before the dressing table, carefully applying the final touches to my appearance. My reflection stared back at me, a picture of poise and elegance, yet my heart was a chaotic mess of emotions.

Could he truly love me?

Would he even like me?

The uncertainty swirled within me like a storm, threatening to drown my excitement with doubts.

Just as I was getting lost in my thoughts, the door to my room burst open. Tanvi strode in with her usual energy, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Oh my God, Saanu! You look absolutely stunning!" she gushed, her eyes scanning my face. "The guy who's coming to see you is going to be totally whipped".

Her words made my cheeks flush with warmth, and I couldn't help but smile.

Before I could respond, Ishika joined in, always the enthusiastic one. "Of course Our Saanu is a gorgeous sweetheart, Who wouldn't fall for her?"

Their words filled me with a comforting sense of confidence, easing some of the tension in my chest. I turned to them with a grateful smile.

"Thank you, gurls," I said, using the affectionate nickname I always called them.

Just then, Diya appeared in the doorway, her expression urgent. "Saanu di, hurry up! Mumma said they're on their way."

I nodded, watching as she rushed off, leaving us to finish our last-minute touch-ups. We took a few quick photos.

Tanvi even posted one on Instagram with the caption My Barbie Dolls. I rolled my eyes at her but couldn't stop myself from laughing.

Once we were ready, we made our way downstairs. The air buzzed with nervous excitement, my heart pounding as I entered the kitchen where my mother was preparing sweets. I joined her, wanting to keep my hands busy to distract myself from my thoughts.

---🌷

Author's POV

Outside the Chahuan mansion, a line of sleek black luxury cars pulled up. The Rajawat family stepped out smoothly, each of them looking confident.

The women were dressed in rich, traditional saris adorned with delicate embroidery, their jewelry .The men looked equally regal in their tailored kurtas.

Saanvi's mother greeted them with a warm smile, pressing her hands together in a respectful "Namaste" before embracing Mrs. Rajawat with familiarity.

The two women exchanged affectionate greetings, while Saanvi's father warmly welcomed Mr. Rajawat.

Inside, the guests were seated comfortably in the living room, exchanging polite pleasantries when Mrs. Rajawat finally turned to Saanvi's mother.

"Where is your daughter, Mrs. Chahuan?"

With a soft smile, her mother replied, "I'll call her right away," before instructing Diya to fetch Saanvi.

As the conversation continued, Mrs. Rajawat's eyes softened as she noticed Diya. "Your younger daughter is lovely as well," she complimented.

Saanvi's mother beamed with pride. "Thank you. She's the little sunshine of our home."

Just then, the soft chime of anklets and the delicate jingling of bangles echoed through the room, drawing everyone's attention toward the staircase.

Saanvi descended the stairs gracefully, her every step measured, her presence undeniable.

She wore a deep red Anarkali suit, its intricate gold embroidery adding an ethereal glow to her appearance. The oxidized silver jewelry complemented her features, and her makeup subtle yet striking enhanced her natural beauty.

For a brief moment, an awed silence filled the room. Every gaze was fixated on her, admiration reflecting in their eyes.

She approached Mrs. Rajawat, bending slightly to touch her feet out of respect. However, before she could, Mrs. Rajawat gently stopped her.

"In our family, daughters are embraced with love, not weighed down by traditions," she said warmly. "We welcome them with open arms, not bowed heads."

Saanvi felt a rush of warmth at the older woman's words. A genuine smile curved her lips as she opened her arms, pulling Mrs. Rajawat into a heartfelt embrace.

As she settled beside her, Mrs. Rajawat's gaze remained affectionate.

"Our future daughter-in-law is beautiful," she said, her voice filled with delight.

Blushing at the compliment, Saanvi murmured, "Thank you, aunty."

Mrs. Rajawat playfully narrowed her eyes. "No 'aunty' from now on.

"Call me Mumma or Ma sa."

A sense of belonging washed over her as she nodded, her heart swelling with emotions she hadn't expected to feel so soon.

One by one, she was introduced to the family.

"This is your chachi, Nita Singh Rajawat, and your chacha, Vinod Singh Rajawat," Mrs. Rajawat introduced, gesturing to a kind-looking couple.

"And this is their son, Dhruv Singh Rajawat."

Saanvi greeted them with a respectful Namaste, receiving warm smiles in return.

Dhruv, a well-mannered young man with a teasing grin, stepped forward. He bent slightly and touched her feet.

"Pranam, Bhabhi sa."

Her eyes widened in surprise before she chuckled, the ease in his tone making her feel instantly comfortable.

Just then, a bubbly young woman entered the room, her excitement palpable.

"I'm Kiara, your Nanad, but let's be real I'm going to be your best friend first ." she declared, linking her arm with Saanvi's.

Saanvi let out a soft laugh, already feeling an unexpected warmth toward her soon-to-be sister-in-law.

As the evening continued, the conversations flowed effortlessly. However, there was one lingering question in the air where was he?

Saanvi's father finally voiced the thought on everyone's mind. "Mr. Rajawat, your eldest son hasn't arrived?"

Mr. Rajawat gave a reassuring nod. "He had an important meeting today, but he'll be there for the engagement."

Though his words were calm, a subtle silence settled in the room.

Saanvi found herself unable to shake off the tiny pang of disappointment in her chest.

Wouldn't he have made time, if he truly wanted to meet her?

Did he even care about this alliance?

The questions swirled in her mind, leaving her uneasy.

Just then, Dhruv leaned toward her with a teasing glint in his eyes. "Bhabhi sa, you're already blushing. What will happen when Bhai sa finally sees you?"

Her cheeks burned at his words, her heart skipping a beat at the mere mention of the man she had yet to meet.

The Rajawat family eventually bid their farewells, their decision clear.

"From our side, it's a yes," Mrs. Rajawat declared, her voice filled with warmth and conviction.

As the guests left, Tanvi and Ishika grabbed Saanvi's hands, their eyes shining with excitement.

"OMG, Saanu, You're really getting married!"

A mixture of joy, nervousness, and uncertainty settled in her heart.

This was happening.

She was about to step into a new life.

But deep down, she couldn't shake the lingering thought why hadn't he come today?

RAJVEER POV:

I opened the front door and stepped into the warmth of my home after a long, tiring day. My shoulders were sore from exhaustion, and all I wanted was a quiet evening maybe a hot shower and then straight to bed. But as soon as I walked in, I was met with the unexpected sound of chatter, laughter, and excitement. My whole family was gathered in the living room, their faces glowing with anticipation.

Something was definitely up.

I barely had time to process the situation when my mother's voice rang out, her tone carrying both authority and delight.

"Beta Rajveer, suno, humne tumhari shadi tai kar di hai."

(Rajveer, listen, we've fixed your marriage.)

I halted mid-step, my brows knitting together as her words sank in. Marriage?I hadn't even thought about it, let alone expected it to be decided without my knowledge.

Sensing my confusion, my mother continued, her face beaming with excitement.

"Ladki kaafi sundar hai, aur doctor hai."

(The girl is very beautiful, and she's a doctor.)

A doctor?

That caught my attention.

Not that I had any particular preference, but there was something intriguing about the way she said it as if this girl wasn't just anyone but someone extraordinary.

Before I could react, my ever-dramatic younger sister, Kiara, interjected with a mischievous grin, unable to contain her enthusiasm.

"Ma sa, dil ki doctor hai, Bhai sa. Unke mareez ban jayenge agar ek baar dekhenge unhe."

(She's a doctor of the heart, Bhai sa. You'll become her patient the moment you see her.)

I rolled my eyes at her dramatics, but a small smirk played at the corner of my lips. Kiara always had a flair for exaggeration, but for some reason, her words struck a chord within me.

Before I could say anything, she shoved a photograph into my hands, her eyes twinkling with excitement. I glanced at it briefly but set it down on the table without a second look.

"I need a shower," I mumbled, rubbing my temples before heading to my room.

I wasn't against marriage, but the idea of marrying a stranger felt unsettling. I wasn't the type to believe in love at first sight or fairy-tale romances. In my world, relationships were built on trust, understanding, and, most importantly, loyalty.

Did this girl fit into my world?

Did she even want to?

I stepped into the steaming hot shower, letting the water cascade down my tense muscles. My thoughts drifted back to what Kiara had said

"Dil ki doctor hai, Bhai sa."

I let out a short chuckle.

Me?

Falling in love?

Becoming someone's patient?

" What a joke."

Yet, a tiny voice in my head whispered, "What if?"

After my shower, I stepped out of the bathroom, a towel loosely wrapped around my waist, and ran my fingers through my damp hair. My eyes instinctively landed on the photograph resting on the table.

I hesitated for a moment before finally picking it up.

And the second my gaze landed on the girl in the picture, my heart "stopped."

I stared, my breath hitching as recognition slammed into me like a thunderbolt.

"Saanvi Chauhan."

The same woman who had unknowingly captured my attention at the hospital weeks ago. The same woman whose voice had lingered in my mind long after our brief encounter. The same woman who had left me spellbound with her poise, her intelligence, and that quiet confidence in her eyes.

And now, she was meant to be my "wife."

A slow, almost disbelieving smile crept onto my lips.

Fate had a twisted sense of humor.

I had met "countless" women in my life, but none had ever held my interest beyond a fleeting attraction. And yet, here she was the one woman who had stirred something unfamiliar in me, now about to become mine.

I ran my thumb over her picture, tracing the soft curve of her smile.

"Mrs. Saanvi Rajveer Singh Rajawat."

The words rolled off my tongue effortlessly, and an odd sense of satisfaction filled my chest.

I never believed in destiny, but this felt... different. As if the universe itself had woven our paths together long before we even knew it.

A chuckle escaped my lips as I recalled my own mocking thoughts from earlier.

"The doctor of the heart, huh?"

Maybe Kiara wasn't overreacting after all.