The house was buzzing with activity. Curtains were washed in sunlight, flowers strung across the courtyard, and the sweet smell of marigold and jasmine filled every corner. Relatives flitted in and out, checking arrangements for the engagement.
Amidst the noise, Ann slipped out to the veranda, needing a moment of calm. She took a deep breath, her hands clutching the hem of her dupatta. The excitement, the nerves, the weight of the day—it all pressed against her chest.
"Enjoying a little peace before the storm?"
Ann jumped slightly and turned to see Dennis leaning casually against the doorway, a soft smile playing on his lips. His eyes sparkled with mischief and warmth.
"I… I needed a moment," she admitted, cheeks flushing.
Dennis stepped closer. "I understand." He gestured to the courtyard where the family fussed over last-minute preparations. "The world is loud today. But this… this moment, it's ours."
Ann laughed softly. "Ours?"
He took her hand gently, his fingers brushing hers. "Yes. Our hearts, before everyone else sees. I want to remember you like this—just you, just me, just today."
Ann's POV
He always knows the right words. Even when my heart is racing, his presence calms me.
"I feel… nervous," she admitted, glancing down. "What if I trip over my words during the ceremony? Or… or someone misunderstands?"
Dennis tilted her chin up gently. "Ann, no one can misunderstand your heart. And as for your words—no one will notice them. I'll be right there, and we'll laugh together if anything goes wrong."
Her lips curved into a shy smile. "You make it sound so easy."
"It is easy," he said softly, looking into her eyes. "Because I love you. And that love… it's bigger than nerves, bigger than ceremonies, bigger than everything today."
Ann's throat tightened. "I love you too," she whispered, almost afraid to speak it aloud.
Dennis grinned, the kind of grin that made her heart skip. "Good. Then we're even. But I have one condition."
"What?" she asked, curiosity sparking.
"That today, before everyone sees the engaged couple, I get a promise from you. Promise me that no matter what happens, we'll remember this moment—the quiet, the laughter, the calm before the celebration."
Ann's smile widened. "I promise."
They stood together for a long moment, hands entwined, watching the sunlight spill across the courtyard. The sound of distant laughter, the rustling of silk and flowers, and the gentle breeze felt like a blessing wrapped around them.
Dennis leaned closer, resting his forehead lightly against hers. "I can't wait to call you mine officially."
Ann's eyes glimmered. "I can't wait either."
Dennis's POV
Every time she smiles, I know I made the right choice. Every time she trusts me, I promise myself I will never betray it. Today isn't just a ceremony—it's the start of a lifetime, and I'll cherish every second.
The moment lingered, fragile and precious, before the distant call of relatives reminded them that the world awaited. With a final squeeze of her hand, Dennis whispered, "Come, let's face them together."
And together, hand in hand, they walked back into the bustling house—ready to step into the next chapter of their lives.