As the last echoes of laughter and the fading glow of fireworks illuminated the Mehra household, the air thickened with unspoken words. Siya stood in the center of it all, her heart pounding as she absorbed the mixed reactions of her family. Veer’s hand remained steady on her back, a silent promise of support amidst the storm.

Siya exchanged glances with her mother, Savitri, whose eyes glistened with unshed tears. The hurt was palpable, but beneath it lay a flicker of understanding, a reminder of the bond they once shared. Mohan, her father, paced the room like a caged lion, his brow furrowed in deep contemplation.