Shubman was buzzing with excitement as he meticulously prepared for the engagement ceremony. His room was a whirlwind of activity, with friends and family bustling around, making last-minute arrangements. As he adjusted the collar of his cream-colored kurta, Ishan stepped in, his eyes widening in appreciation.

"Veere, you are looking absolutely dashing!" Ishan exclaimed, his tone brimming with genuine admiration.

Shubman turned to his friend, a broad smile spreading across his face. "Thanks, jaaneman," he replied warmly, feeling a surge of confidence.

His attire was nothing short of regal. The cream-colored kurta, with its full sleeves, was adorned with intricate embroidery and delicate prints around the collar, placket, and cuffs. Over it, he wore a matching cream-colored coat that featured detailed embroidery on the chest area and pockets. The coat also sported a pocket square that perfectly complemented the overall color scheme. His traditional fitted pants, gathered at the ankles, matched the kurta and coat seamlessly. Completing the ensemble were dark brown dress shoes with a glossy finish, adding a touch of elegance to his look.

As Shubman descended the stairs, his heart raced with anticipation. He spotted Shahneel waiting at the bottom, her face lighting up with a warm smile as she saw him.

"Looking incredibly handsome, Kaka," Shahneel remarked, her eyes twinkling with pride.

Shubman chuckled, giving her a grateful nod before making his way to the dais, where he took his seat.

Soon, the room fell silent as Kiara made her grand entrance. She looked breathtaking in her attire. Her lehenga, a vision of vibrant shades of pink and gold, featured a cropped blouse with thin straps, showcasing a beautiful array of intricate beadwork and embroidery. The floral patterns were both classic and captivating. The high-waisted, flared lehenga cascaded to the floor, mirroring the blouse's embroidery and beadwork. It was adorned with a wide, embellished border at the hemline, adding to the outfit's grandeur. Complementing the set was a sheer dupatta, draped elegantly over her arms. It matched the blouse and lehenga in color and detail, with tassels hanging from its edges, enhancing the outfit's traditional aesthetic.

Her bangles, crusted with golden stones that matched her outfit, jingled softly as she moved. A statement ring on one hand drew attention and echoed the outfit's ornate nature. She wore a choker and matching earrings, perfectly suited to the dress. Her hair was left free, cascading in waves around her shoulders. Gold eyeshadow highlighted her eyes, and her subtle lipstick completed the look.

Kiara gracefully took her seat next to Shubman, and their eyes met in a moment of shared joy. The pandit began chanting mantras, filling the room with a sacred ambiance. Finally, he announced, "Exchange the rings, please."

Ishan approached with Kiara's ring, handing it to Shubman. Just as Shubman was about to slip the ring onto her finger, Shahneel interjected, her voice teasing yet affectionate. "Shub, since you could not propose to her properly, what would you tell Kiara if you had proposed?"

Shubman paused, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. He took a deep breath and knelt down on one knee, holding Kiara's hand gently. The room grew silent, all eyes on the couple.

"Kiara," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion, "there's something about the way the world seems to pause when you laugh. It's like for that one fleeting moment, everything just feels right. I've been trying to understand these butterflies, this constant anticipation of seeing you again. It's more than just a passing fancy; it's like you've walked straight out of a dream and into my reality.

Every time we talk, it's like the pieces of a puzzle falling into place. I find myself lost in our conversations, eager for the next word, the next smile, the next shared secret. It's funny how life throws these curveballs, isn't it? One day you're just friends, and the next, you're waking up thinking about that person's smile. I guess what I'm trying to say is, you've become a part of my day that I look forward to the most. And I... I think I'm falling for you, Kiara. Not in a fleeting, shallow way, but genuinely, profoundly, in a way that scares me because it's so real. So, here I am, standing in front of you, heart on my sleeve, hoping that maybe, just maybe, you feel a fraction of what I feel."

Kiara's eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her smile radiant. "Now I regret not getting proposed," she said softly, her voice trembling with emotion.

Shahneel urged, "Reply to him, Kiki."

Kiara nodded, her gaze never leaving Shubman's. "Shubman, you have a way with words that can make even the most ordinary moments seem magical. Hearing you share your feelings so openly, it's... it's endearing. You've always been someone I admire, for your kindness, your laughter, and the way you care about those around you.

I won't pretend that I haven't noticed the little things, the glances, the lingering conversations, the way our hands brush against each other's. It's been a dance of sorts, one where we've been figuring out the steps as we go along. And I like that dance, I really do. Your honesty is refreshing, and it takes courage to stand there, with your heart exposed. I respect that, and I want you to know that your feelings aren't one-sided. I've felt the pull, the curiosity, the desire to know more, to be more than just friends. So, yes, Shubman, I feel it too, this connection that's been growing between us. Let's see where this journey takes us, together."

The room erupted in cheers and applause as Shubman slid the ring onto Kiara's finger, and she did the same for him. Overwhelmed with joy, Kiara hugged Shubman tightly, and he held her close, their hearts beating in unison.

After the ceremony, as they mingled with their guests, Shahneel called out, "Photo session time!"

Shubman and Kiara laughed, posing for countless pictures, their smiles never fading. As the flash of the camera captured their happiness, Shubman leaned in close to Kiara and whispered, "This is so overwhelming, Kiki."

Kiara smiled, her eyes sparkling with affection. She leaned in and kissed Shubman gently. "It's perfect," she murmured against his lips.

They joined their families and friends for a lavish lunch, enjoying the laughter and conversations that filled the room. Later, they took more photos with their family members and friends, capturing moments of joy and camaraderie with the ICT group.

As the evening drew to a close, the guests began to leave. The ICT, the Gills, and the Advanis retreated to their rooms, deciding to rest after the day's joyous events. Shubman and Kiara, their hearts full, shared a quiet moment together, reflecting on the beautiful beginning of their shared journey.