Page 80 of Since You Came Along

Swayam blinked, taken aback. ‘Me? Seriously?’ he asked.

‘I’ve been lucky to meet some incredible people in my life. You’re one of the best, Swayam. And I want you by my side when I step into my new life.’

Swayam took her hands in his and squeezed them. ‘I’d be honoured, Mihu,’ he said.

Meera laughed through her tears, hugging him. Moments later, everyone joined in, forming a warm, chaotic group hug. It reminded Meera of the group hug from college when they’d won the best project award.

‘I knew two packets of tissues wouldn’t be enough for you, Meera,’ Siya teased.

Before Meera could retaliate, Kusha stepped in between them. ‘I knew that too, so I brought two extra,’ she declared.

Meera rolled her eyes, torn between annoyance and affection. It was impossible to stay mad at them for long.

‘Now change because Raghav must be coming over any minute. He can’t see the dress!’ Siya urged and ushered everyone out of the room, leaving Meera alone.

She changed and stepped into the living room, where Raghav and Abhay were packing their bags for the trip. Siya had declared days ago that Team Bride would travel separately.

Meera sighed as Raghav zipped his bag, already dreading how difficult it would be to spend even one night away from him.

Raghav looked up and saw her leaning against the door. They shared a smile, and he asked, ‘Now?’

Meera nodded. Raghav came to stand beside her and wrapped an around her waist. ‘Abhay, there is something we want to ask you.’

‘What is it?’ Abhay asked.

‘We want you to officiate our wedding. It’s a simple ceremony and we are already married. This is just for us. And we want you to be the one to announce us married.’

Abhay looked at them, surprise flickering across his face. Meera sensed his reluctance and added, ‘You’re the person we’re both closest to. You’ve been by Raghav’s side all his life, and you were the first to accept me as part of the family. I never had a brother, but you became one for me. Please, say yes.’

Raghav said, ‘You’re my best friend, and you know that. I can’t think of anyone else I’d rather have standing with us. You’ve been there for me through everything. Now, stand by us.’

Teary-eyed, Abhay agreed. Both of them hugged, and Meera smiled at the scene in front of her. She knew how much Raghav relied on Abhay, which is why it felt so right to hand Abhay a letter, asking him to pass it to Raghav before the wedding.

The next evening, as the farmhouse buzzed with excitement, Abhay kept his promise. He slipped the letter to Raghav as they got ready. Curious, Raghav unfolded it and began reading it.

Raghav,

I found this ring in your drawer, the one Veronica gave you when you were kids. I remember you telling me about it. I want you to wear this on the chain I’ve sent along in the envelope. You once said you wished she could be a part of your future. Well, if you wear this tomorrow, she will be. I want her to be there with us.

I know you’re wondering why I’m suggesting this when I broke my anklet. There is a simple difference. My souvenir was tainted with pain and it was suffocating me. This ring is a symbol of love and precious memories. It’s the love she had for you and the love you still carry for her.

That day at the cemetery, when I asked for a moment alone, I promised Veronica that I’d always love you and make you happy. I promised I wouldn’t push her memory away. Instead, I want her love to stand beside mine, so you’ll always feel surrounded by love. Because you are.

It’d make me happy if you wear this tomorrow. It would mean everything to me to have her as part of our ceremony, and our future. I can’t wait to see you there.

All my love, Meera.

P.S. A little bird landed on her grave while I was talking to her. It chirped the whole time I was talking to her. I took it as a sign Veronica likes me!

Abhay turned when he heard a sniffle. Raghav was wiping his eyes with the back of his hand.

‘What’s wrong?’ Abhay asked.

Raghav handed him the letter and said, ‘I don’t know what I did to deserve her.’

Abhay read the letter and felt thrilled his friend had found a partner like Meera. And just then, he knew what to say to officiate their wedding.

Meera sat in the master bedroom, heart pounding as Siya blended foundation across her face. Her hands trembled as she asked, ‘Do you think I can skip the vows?’

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