a little long chapter, for the sake of the plot, please don't skip

The next morning, after a slightly lazy breakfast of fruit and croissants, Thalia sprawled out on her couch, scrolling through her phone. 

Her mind was still basking in the previous day's beach antics and Shubman's playful jabs. The sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in her flat.

Her phone rang as she was about to dive into another social media rabbit hole. It was her mother. Thalia groaned, glancing at the time—it was already 10 AM.

"Hey, Mom," she answered her tone a mix of curiosity and reluctance.

"Thalia, sweetheart!" Her mother's voice was brisk but warm. "I hope you're enjoying your morning. We need you to get ready. We're attending a wedding ceremony today."

Thalia blinked, confusion evident in her voice. "A wedding? Today? Mom, I don't think I'm—"

Her mother cut her off, a hint of excitement in her voice. "And guess what? Shubman will be picking you up. His family is already here with us. They're such lovely people. I'm sure you'll have a great time."

The mention of Shubman made Thalia sit up straighter. "Wait, what? Shubman's family is there? But... who's getting married?"

Her mother chuckled. "Oh, it's the son of someone your father and I know well. We've talked about it before. But don't worry about the details. Just get ready and look your best."

Thalia sighed, resigned. "Alright, alright. I'll get dressed. When's Shubman picking me up?"

"Within the hour," her mother said. "So, hurry up! We're looking forward to seeing you."

After ending the call, Thalia groaned in frustration. "Fucking weddings," she muttered to herself. "Why does it always have to be so last minute?"

She stood up and walked to her wardrobe, contemplating her options. The thought of seeing Shubman in his usual charming self did make the idea of attending the wedding slightly more bearable.

She decided to go all out. She pulled out a black saree that she hadn't worn in ages. The saree was elegant and sexy, with a sleek black fabric that shimmered subtly in the light. 

The blouse was sleeveless and backless, designed to highlight her toned back and accentuate her figure. She paired it with some sparkling jewellery—dangling earrings and a statement necklace that complemented the saree's simplicity.

As she slipped into the saree, she took her time with the pleats, ensuring they fell just right. The backless blouse left her shoulders and back bare, adding an element of sultry sophistication to her look. 

She applied a layer of lip gloss, opting for a shade that added just the right amount of shine without being too overpowering. Her hair was styled in soft, loose waves that framed her face, giving her a glamorous yet effortless look.

When she was finally satisfied with her appearance, she checked herself in the mirror. "Alright, Thalia. You look fucking amazing. Let's see if Shubman's ready for this."

Just as she was finishing up, her phone buzzed with a message from Shubman.

shub: Hey gorgeous, I'm outside. Ready to make this wedding fun or what? 😉

She grinned, typing back quickly.

lia: Give me five minutes. I swear if you make me late, I'll throw you into a wedding cake.

As she made her way downstairs to meet Shubman, she tried to push aside her curiosity about the wedding. What mattered now was that she was looking damn good, and Shubman was bound to appreciate it.

When she reached the front of her building, Shubman was already waiting by the car. He was dressed in a sharp, tailored navy blue suit with a crisp white shirt underneath, his hair styled to perfection. 

The outfit accentuated his athletic build and highlighted his charismatic presence. He looked up and his eyes widened slightly as he took in Thalia's appearance.

"Wow, Lia," Shubman said, his voice dropping to a low, appreciative murmur. "You look absolutely stunning. That saree... goddamn."

Thalia rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile that spread across her face. "Thanks, Shubman. I'm not doing this just for you, you know."

He chuckled, opening the car door for her with a flourish. "Oh, I know. But I'm glad you did. You're making this wedding look a lot more interesting already."

As she slid into the car, she noticed Shubman's gaze linger for a moment longer than necessary, a hint of admiration in his eyes. 

He closed the door behind her and climbed into the driver's seat, starting the engine.

"So," Thalia began, looking over at him. "Tell me more about this wedding. I still have no clue who's getting married."

Shubman grinned as he drove, his eyes flicking over to her. 

"Honestly, I don't know much either. My parents didn't give me any details. Just that it's someone they're close to. But knowing them, it'll be a grand affair."

Thalia sighed, leaning back in the seat. "Great. So we're going in blind. This should be fun."

Shubman's grin widened as he glanced over at her, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Oh, I'm sure it'll be a blast. And you look like you're going to steal the show, regardless of who's tying the knot."

She laughed, shaking her head. "You're such a charmer, Shubman. But let's see if you can keep up with me today."

The drive was filled with light banter and teasing, Shubman's playful comments mixing with Thalia's laughter. 

As they approached the venue, a beautifully decorated hall with elegant floral arrangements and soft, ambient lighting, Thalia couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. 

Even though she was still clueless about the wedding itself, the company she was with promised to make it memorable.

When they arrived and stepped into the venue, the scene was everything Thalia had expected—opulent, with a touch of traditional charm.

 Guests were mingling, dressed to impress, and the air was filled with the hum of conversation and the clink of glasses.

Shubman took Thalia's arm as they entered, guiding her through the crowd. "Ready for this?"

Thalia looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Bring it on."

The ceremony was in full swing, the hall abuzz with guests enjoying the festivities. The air was fragrant with the scent of fresh flowers and the soft hum of traditional music. 

Thalia and Shubman had managed to find a quiet spot near the refreshments table, away from the more formal aspects of the wedding.

Thalia, leaning against the table with a glass of sparkling water in hand, was laughing at one of Shubman's stories. 

She had managed to keep her spirits high despite the initial confusion about the event. Her black saree flowed elegantly around her, the sheer fabric catching the light as she moved. 

The sleeveless, backless blouse showcased her toned back, and her glossy lip gloss added a hint of shine to her full lips.

Shubman, dressed in his sharp navy blue suit, was leaning in close, his voice low and teasing. His shirt was crisp, and his tie was perfectly knotted, complementing his well-toned physique. 

"So, I told the waiter, if you're going to serve us more champagne, at least make sure it's not from the same bottle you used for the last wedding."

Thalia giggled, playfully swatting at his arm. "You're such a drama queen, Shubman. I'm surprised you haven't started a riot over the drinks yet."

"I've got to keep things interesting," he said with a mischievous grin, his fingers lightly brushing against hers. "You never know when a little chaos might be needed."

Their playful banter was interrupted when they noticed their mothers, accompanied by their aunts, making their way towards them. 

The women were dressed in vibrant traditional outfits that drew admiration from the crowd. Shubman's mother wore a deep emerald green saree that shimmered under the lights, while 

Thalia's mother sported a rich, burgundy lehenga with intricate gold embroidery. The aunts were equally stunning in their colourful ensembles.

"Look who we have here!" Thalia's mother called out, her voice carrying a mix of warmth and authority.

Shubman's mother joined in, her eyes twinkling with something akin to excitement. "Thalia, Shubman, we need to have a word with you."

Thalia exchanged a glance with Shubman, raising an eyebrow. "Uh-oh. This doesn't sound good."

"Don't be such a drama queen," Shubman said, his voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "We're in for an adventure, clearly."

The mothers and aunts gathered around them, their faces glowing with satisfaction. Thalia's aunt, a lively woman with an infectious laugh, clapped her hands together. 

"We've been talking, and it seems there's a perfect match right here in front of us."

Shubman looked puzzled, his brow furrowing. "A match? What are you talking about?"

Thalia's mother cleared her throat, her eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and seriousness. 

"Well, we've been thinking. Both of you know each other so well, and you're so compatible. Why not consider taking things to the next level?"

Shubman's eyes widened in mock horror, his tone exaggeratedly shocked. "Wait a second. Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

Thalia, already feeling her face flush with embarrassment, tried to hide her reaction behind a sip of her drink. 

"Are you two seriously suggesting that Shubman and I should get married?"

Her mother nodded enthusiastically. "Yes! It makes perfect sense. You've known each other forever, you get along so well, and honestly, it would be a wonderful match."

Shubman's mother chimed in, her tone firm but affectionate. "You two have been inseparable for years. It's only natural to think about taking the next step."

Thalia stared at them, her mind racing. "You can't be serious. We're just friends. This is—"

"—the most brilliant idea ever," Shubman finished, leaning in towards Thalia with a flirtatious grin. 

"You know, Lia, I've always thought we made a pretty fantastic team. And just imagine—getting to spend every day with me? Sounds like a dream come true."

Thalia's jaw dropped in disbelief, her eyes widening. "You're unbelievable. This is ridiculous."

Shubman's fingers found their way to the small of her back, his touch light but intimate. "Come on, Lia. You know you love the idea deep down. I'd be the best husband ever."

Thalia shot him a look, her cheeks flushing with a mix of frustration and something else she didn't want to name. 

"And you'd be the most infuriating husband too."

One of the aunts, clearly enjoying the spectacle, leaned in with a mischievous smile. "I think it's a great idea. Look at you two. You're perfect for each other."

Thalia glanced around at the expectant faces and then back at Shubman, who was practically beaming with charm. 

"You know what? This is just... so typical of our families. They just can't resist meddling."

Shubman chuckled, his hand still lingering on her back as he spoke. "Well, if they insist, who am I to argue? And besides, think of all the fun we'd have."

"You're not helping your case," Thalia said, her voice barely concealing her amusement. "And you're certainly not making it easier for me to say no."

Shubman's smile widened, and he leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a sultry whisper. 

"You know, Lia, there's no harm in considering it. We've always had a great time together. And who knows? Maybe this could be the start of something even more amazing."

Thalia rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at her lips. "You're incorrigible."

Shubman grinned, giving her a quick, playful peck on the cheek. "And you're the most beautiful, impossible woman I know."

The mothers and aunts, seeing the flirtatious exchange, exchanged satisfied glances. 

"We'll leave you two to think it over," Thalia's mother said, her tone light but meaningful. "Enjoy the rest of the wedding."

As the women walked away, Thalia and Shubman were left standing in the middle of the bustling reception, their conversation now laced with a new layer of tension and amusement.

"You're a real piece of work, Shubman Gill," Thalia said, shaking her head. "But I have to admit, you're making this whole thing... interesting."

"Glad to hear it," Shubman said, his tone now more sincere. "But seriously, Lia, think about it. We'd be great together. And besides, I'd never get bored with you around."

Thalia laughed, her eyes sparkling with a mix of amusement and affection. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"I know," Shubman said, his gaze softening. "But you love it."

As the wedding reception continued, Shubman and Thalia found themselves slipping away from the main crowd to a quieter corner of the venue. 

The soft glow of the ambient lighting and the gentle hum of background music created a more intimate atmosphere. They sat down at a small table with a couple of empty glasses, both still processing the earlier conversation.

Thalia took a deep breath, breaking the silence. "Okay, let's talk this through. If we actually did this—got married—what would our lives look like?"

Shubman leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. 

"Well, for one, we'd be dealing with all the traditional family stuff. Our parents would be thrilled, obviously. We'd be expected at every family function, festival, and event."

"True," Thalia said, nodding. "But think about it. We'd have to navigate through all the family drama. Like, during Diwali, our houses would be full of people. Both sides of the family would want to host, and there'd be this never-ending cycle of parties and celebrations."

Shubman chuckled. "Yeah, and don't forget the pressure of blending traditions. My family is all about the grand, elaborate celebrations, while yours—"

"—has their own way of doing things," Thalia finished, smirking. "We'd need to find a way to balance it all. Imagine the stress of coordinating both sets of family expectations."

"And the pressure of hosting," Shubman added, grinning. "We'd be the ones everyone looks to for the perfect Diwali party or the grandest wedding anniversary celebration."

Thalia laughed, shaking her head. "Oh, and don't get me started on the festivals. Like, during Ganesh Chaturthi, your family goes all out with the decorations and rituals. Mine, on the other hand, has a more laid-back approach."

"Yeah, and I can already hear the complaints from both sides if we didn't manage to meet all their expectations," Shubman said, his tone light but serious. 

"The constant balancing act would be exhausting."

Thalia sighed, leaning back in her chair. "It's not just about the festivals, though. There's the everyday stuff too. We'd have to figure out how to manage our careers, personal time, and all the family commitments."

Shubman nodded, his expression thoughtful. "And what about our own space? We'd have to compromise on everything—from where we live to how we decorate. It's a lot of give-and-take."

Thalia looked at him, her eyes searching his face. "And what if we decided not to get married? I mean, just stick to being friends. What would that look like?"

Shubman's gaze softened. "Well, we'd still have each other. We'd have the same dynamic we've always had—hanging out, teasing each other, and being there for one another. Our families would still be involved but without the added pressure of a formal relationship."

Thalia nodded, considering his words. 

"We'd still be expected at family events, but it wouldn't be as intense. We could just show up, enjoy the celebrations, and then go back to our normal lives without all the extra baggage."

Shubman smirked. "Yeah, and we wouldn't have to deal with the constant pressure to have a perfect relationship. We'd be free to live our lives without the weight of everyone's expectations."

"But then," Thalia said, her voice thoughtful, "we'd be missing out on something that could be... more. We'd always be wondering what if. Our families would continue to nudge us, and there would always be that nagging feeling of what could have been."

Shubman reached across the table, his hand lightly touching hers. "It's true. We'd always have that what-if hanging over us. But at least we'd have the freedom to decide for ourselves, without the added pressure."

Thalia met his gaze, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. "And if we did get married, it wouldn't just be about the festivals or family expectations. It would be about us making a life together, navigating all the chaos and the joy that comes with it."

Shubman's fingers gently squeezed hers. "Exactly. It'd be about building something new together, with all the ups and downs. And even if it's messy and complicated, it'd be our mess and our complications."

Thalia smiled a soft, genuine smile. "You're right. It's a lot to think about, and it won't be easy. But it's not just about the logistics. It's about whether we're ready to take that leap together."

Shubman's expression turned serious, but his eyes were warm. "Are you ready to consider it, Lia? To take that leap with me?"

Thalia took a deep breath, her mind swirling with possibilities. "I don't know yet, Shubman. But I'm willing to think about it. Maybe we should take some time to figure things out before making any decisions."

Shubman nodded, his hand still holding hers. "That sounds fair. We don't have to rush into anything. Let's just enjoy the process, and see where it takes us."

As they sat there, holding hands and discussing their future, the noise of the wedding reception seemed to fade into the background. 

Thalia took a deep breath, her expression turning more serious. She squeezed Shubman's hand gently, her eyes meeting his with a hint of vulnerability. 

"Shubman, there's one more thing we need to talk about. It's not just about us and our families. It's about the mess we'd create if we didn't marry."

Shubman looked at her, his brows furrowing slightly. "What do you mean?"

She hesitated for a moment, collecting her thoughts. "If we don't get married, our parents will be the subject of everyone's gossip. You know how it goes. Relatives will start bitching about why we're not married yet, why we haven't settled down. They'll make it into this huge issue."

Shubman's expression shifted to one of understanding. 

"Yeah, I get it. The pressure from relatives can be intense. They'll turn it into this drama like it's somehow a reflection of our parents' failures."

"Exactly," Thalia said, nodding. "It's not just about us. It's about how it would affect our families. They'd have to endure all this unwanted scrutiny and judgment. I don't want to be the reason for that kind of stress."

Shubman's grip on her hand tightened, a mix of concern and determination in his eyes. 

"So, you're saying that even if we're not sure about getting married, we might do it to avoid putting our families through that kind of bullshit?"

Thalia sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Yeah. It's not the ideal reason to get married, but I don't want our families to suffer because of our indecision. They've done so much for us, and they don't deserve to be dragged into all this drama."

Shubman leaned back, considering her words. "You're right. It wouldn't be fair to put them in that position. They'd be dealing with a lot of unnecessary stress and judgment from everyone."

Thalia looked at him, her eyes filled with a mix of frustration and hope. 

"I don't want our decision to be a source of negativity for them. If getting married means sparing them from that kind of shit, maybe it's something we should seriously consider."

Shubman nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "I understand. It's a shitty situation, and it's not what either of us wanted. But we also don't want to be the cause of unnecessary drama."

Thalia's expression softened, her eyes meeting his with a hint of warmth. 

"I just want to make sure that whatever we decide, it's the right thing for both of us and for our families. I don't want anyone to feel like we're making them suffer because of our choices."

Shubman reached over, his fingers brushing against her cheek. "We'll figure it out, Lia. We'll make sure that whatever we decide, it's done with everyone's best interests at heart."

Thalia smiled faintly, feeling a sense of relief. "Thanks, Shubman. I appreciate you understanding where I'm coming from."

"Of course," Shubman said, his voice gentle. "We're in this together. We'll find a way to navigate through all the bullshit and come out stronger on the other side."

Shubman stared at Thalia, the weight of their conversation pressing heavily on him. He took a deep breath, the usual lightness in his eyes replaced with a rare intensity. 

"You know, Lia," he began, his voice faltering slightly, "there's something I need to ask you. Something important."

Thalia looked at him, sensing the shift in his demeanour. "What's up, Shubman?"

He hesitated, struggling to find the right words. 

"I mean, if we're really considering this... marriage thing, then—" He paused, running a hand through his hair, his usual confidence wavering. 

"—then we need to think about it seriously. Like, really seriously."

Thalia watched him, her heart racing as she sensed his growing anxiety. "What are you trying to say?"

Shubman took another deep breath, his eyes meeting hers with a blend of determination and fear. 

"Lia, would you... would you spend your entire life with me? Like, truly, without any reservations or doubts?"

Before Thalia could respond, Shubman's words started tumbling out in a rush, his usual composure slipping away. 

"I mean, I get it, it's a big question. And yeah, we've got our share of drama and family bullshit to deal with. But if we're talking about forever, it's not just about the festivals and the expectations. It's about us, and how we handle everything together."

He leaned forward, his voice growing more urgent. 

"I know I'm a mess sometimes, and I'm probably not the easiest person to deal with. I've got my own set of issues, and I can be a complete idiot. But, Lia, I'd like to think that—"

His voice cracked slightly, and he rubbed his face with both hands, his frustration evident. 

"—I'd like to think that despite all the bullshit, I'm worth it. I'd do my best to make it work. I'd try to be the partner you deserve. I don't want you to settle for anything less."

Thalia's eyes widened at his raw vulnerability. "Shubman, it's okay. You don't have to—"

"—No, it's not okay," Shubman interrupted, his voice almost breaking. "It's not okay because I'm scared. Scared that if we do this, I won't be good enough. Scared that I'll mess things up and make things worse. I've seen what happens when people screw up their lives, and I don't want to be that person who ruins everything."

He took a shuddering breath, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. 

"I don't want to be the guy who lets you down, Lia. I want to be the guy who makes you happy, who supports you, who stands by you through all the crap. But what if I fail? What if I'm not the right choice?"

Thalia's heart ached at the sight of him so vulnerable. She reached out, placing a comforting hand on his arm. 

"Shubman, you don't have to be perfect. No one is. We both have our flaws, and that's okay. What matters is that we're willing to work through things together."

Shubman's gaze met hers, a mixture of fear and hope in his eyes. "But what if working through it isn't enough? What if we end up regretting it?"

Thalia shook her head, her voice firm yet gentle. 

"We won't know unless we try. It's not about being perfect; it's about being willing to face whatever comes our way. We can't predict the future, but we can decide to be there for each other."

Shubman's breathing was heavy, and he looked away, trying to compose himself. 

"It's just... all this pressure. From our families, from society. And I don't want that to be the reason we make a decision. I want it to be because we genuinely want to be together."

He looked back at her, his eyes brimming with emotion. 

"Lia, I need to know that you're not just saying yes because of the pressure. I need to know that you'd really want this. Because if you're not sure, then maybe we should take a step back and figure things out."

Thalia nodded, her heart full of empathy for him. 

"Shubman, I understand where you're coming from. And I do want to be with you. But we need to make sure it's what we both truly want, not just something we're doing to please everyone else."

Shubman's eyes softened, and he took another deep breath. "Okay. Okay, I'll try to calm down. I just—" He paused, taking a shaky breath. 

"—I just need to know that we're on the same page. That we're both in this together."

Thalia squeezed his arm reassuringly. "We are. We're in this together. And we'll figure it out, one step at a time. But you need to trust that we can handle it."

Shubman nodded slowly, his shoulders relaxing a bit. "Alright. We'll figure it out. And... thank you for understanding."

Thalia smiled softly, her own eyes glistening. "Of course. We'll take it one day at a time. And we'll face whatever comes our way, together."

Thalia looked at Shubman, her heart aching at the sight of his raw vulnerability. She reached out, pulling him into a gentle embrace, her arms wrapping around him in a comforting hold. 

"Shubman," she whispered, her voice soothing, "you don't have to be so hard on yourself. I'm right here with you."

Shubman tensed for a moment, then relaxed into her embrace, his breathing gradually evening out. Thalia felt his warmth against her and couldn't help but smile softly. 

"I'm scared too," she admitted, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "But I have to be honest with you."

She pulled back slightly to look into his eyes, her own filled with sincerity. 

"If I had to choose between spending my life with you or some random guy, there's no contest. I'd choose you, Shubman. We've known each other forever, and even though things are complicated and messy, I can't imagine doing this with anyone else."

Shubman's eyes softened, a hint of relief washing over his face. "Really?"

Thalia nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Really. We've had so many moments together, from the chaotic hangouts to the quiet conversations. We've been through so much, and honestly, I think we'd have more fun times if we were together. Imagine the adventures we'd have."

Shubman looked at her, his gaze filled with a mix of hope and wonder. "Fun times, huh? Like what?"

Thalia grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, for starters, we'd get to make our own traditions. Forget about all the family pressures and the endless list of expectations. We could create our own cool traditions—like our own special way of celebrating festivals, or maybe just random little rituals that make us laugh."

Shubman's expression brightened his earlier tension easing. "That sounds amazing. What kind of traditions do you have in mind?"

Thalia thought for a moment, her eyes dancing with excitement. "How about starting with something simple? Like our own unique way of celebrating birthdays—maybe with ridiculous themed parties or crazy surprises. Or our own private holiday that's just about us, where we do something completely out of the ordinary."

Shubman chuckled, his laughter warm and genuine. "I like the sound of that. A private holiday just for us. What else?"

Thalia's grin widened. "We could also have our own little inside jokes and traditions. Like a special phrase we use whenever we're feeling down, or a secret spot we visit together that's just ours. And of course, we'd get to decide what our home looks like—no more compromising on decor with the in-laws."

Shubman laughed, shaking his head in amazement. "You're making it sound like it would be one hell of a ride."

Thalia nodded, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "It would be. And honestly, I think it would be a lot more fun than trying to juggle everyone else's expectations. We'd have the freedom to be ourselves, to create our own rules and moments."

Shubman's expression grew serious again, but his voice was soft and tender. 

"I know it won't be easy, Lia. There will be challenges and tough moments. But hearing you talk about all this makes me feel like it's worth fighting for."

Thalia's gaze softened, her voice filled with warmth. "It is. We'd face the tough times together, and we'd make the good times even better. We'd be a team, navigating through everything as a unit."

Shubman's hand gently cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing across her skin. 

"You really think we can handle all of it?"

Thalia leaned into his touch, her eyes closing momentarily. "I do. Because we're not just facing it alone. We have each other. And with that, we can handle anything that comes our way."

Shubman smiled a genuine, tender smile that reached his eyes. 

"Alright then. Let's do it. Let's create those crazy traditions and make our own rules. Let's have the ride of our lives together."

Thalia smiled back, her heart swelling with affection. "Sounds perfect to me."

As Shubman and Thalia continued their intimate conversation, their focus remained solely on each other. They were lost in their own world, oblivious to the fact that their parents were close by, observing them with a mix of curiosity and concern.

Thalia's father, Mr Chandrashekar, and Shubman's mother, Mrs Gill, were standing a short distance away, engaged in a hushed conversation. 

Mrs. Gill glanced over at her son and Thalia, her expression a mixture of concern and satisfaction. "Look at them," she said quietly to Mr. Chandrashekar. 

"They seem to be having a serious talk."

Mr Chandrashekar nodded, his gaze fixed on the pair. "They do. It looks like they're really opening up to each other."

Mrs Gill sighed, her voice tinged with a hint of hope. "It's about time. They've always been close, but this conversation seems different. More... meaningful."

Mr. Chandrashekar nodded again, his expression thoughtful. "Yes, it does. I just hope they're ready for the kind of commitment we're all thinking about."

As the two parents continued their observation, Shubman and Thalia's conversation grew even more earnest. 

Thalia's eyes were locked onto Shubman's, her expression serious yet tender. 

"You know, it's not just about us making it work. It's about us being happy together. If we're committed, we can face anything."

Shubman's hand gently squeezed hers, his voice low and earnest. "Yeah, and we'd make our own way. Screw all the pressure and the expectations. We'd build something real, something that's ours."

Just then, Thalia's mother, Mrs. Chandrashekar, joined Mr. Chandrashekar and Mrs. Gill. She caught sight of her daughter and Shubman, a small smile playing on her lips. 

"It looks like they're really connecting," she said softly.

Mrs Gill nodded, a glint of approval in her eyes. "Yes, it does. Maybe this is a good sign. They're talking about their future, and it seems like they're on the same page."

Mr Chandrashekar cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the two parents. "Shall we join them? It might be time to have a more direct conversation."

Mrs. Gill and Mrs. Chandrashekar exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of apprehension and encouragement. 

"Alright," Mrs. Gill said. "Let's go. It's better to be involved in this discussion rather than waiting on the sidelines."

The parents approached Shubman and Thalia, who were still engrossed in their conversation. Thalia was leaning slightly forward, her hand resting on Shubman's arm, her gaze earnest. 

"I really think we could make this work, Shubman. We'd be able to create our own path."

Shubman nodded, his eyes reflecting his deep emotions. "I believe that too, Lia. We can face everything together, as long as we're committed."

Just then, their parents arrived at the table, causing Shubman and Thalia to look up in surprise. Mrs. Gill gave them a warm, slightly nervous smile. 

"Sorry to interrupt, you two. We couldn't help but overhear your conversation. It sounds like you're having a meaningful discussion."

Thalia blushed slightly, her hand still holding Shubman's. "Oh, um, yes. We were just talking about... well, about the future and what it would be like if we actually decided to be together."

Mrs. Chandrashekar's eyes were soft and understanding as she looked at her daughter. 

"We're glad to see you both talking openly. It's important to have these discussions."

Mr. Chandrashekar nodded, his expression serious but supportive. 

"Yes, it's crucial that you both understand what you're getting into and how you can make it work."

Shubman cleared his throat, still holding Thalia's hand. "We know it won't be easy. There are a lot of things to consider. But we're committed to figuring it out."

Mrs Gill's eyes sparkled with a mixture of relief and pride. "That's wonderful to hear. It's good to see that you're taking this seriously and thinking about your future together."

Mrs. Chandrashekar added, her voice gentle, "And if you do decide to move forward, know that we'll support you. We want what's best for both of you."

Shubman glanced at Thalia, then back at their parents, his expression a mix of determination and nervousness. 

"Thanks. We really appreciate your support. It means a lot to us."

Thalia nodded, her gaze shifting between her parents and Shubman. "Yes, thank you. We're both trying to figure things out, and your support helps a lot."

As the conversation between the parents settled into a supportive and encouraging tone, Shubman took a deep breath, a mixture of hope and vulnerability in his eyes. 

He turned back to Thalia, extending his arm towards her with a gentle, almost tentative gesture.

"Lia," he said softly, his voice laden with emotion. "If you're willing, if you're truly ready to take this step with me, then... will you spend your life with me?"

His eyes searched hers for an answer, the question hanging in the air between them. The weight of the moment was palpable, and Thalia felt her heart pounding in her chest. 

She looked at Shubman, her gaze softening as she processed his words and the sincerity behind them.

Instead of responding with words, Thalia's emotions overwhelmed her. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around Shubman's neck, pulling him into a tight embrace. 

Her face buried into his shoulder as she clung to him, her body trembling slightly with the intensity of her feelings.

Shubman's arms wrapped around her, holding her close as he felt her warm breath against his neck. He could sense the depth of her emotions and the earnestness of her response. 

For a moment, the chaos of the wedding and the pressures of their families seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of them and their shared commitment.

Thalia's voice came out muffled against his shoulder, but it was clear and full of emotion. "Yes, Shubman. I want to spend my life with you. I don't want to imagine a future with anyone else."

Shubman's breath hitched slightly, and he tightened his embrace, his own emotions rising to the surface. 

"Lia... you don't know how much this means to me. I've been so scared, and hearing you say that... it's everything I've been hoping for."

Thalia pulled back slightly, her face still close to his, her eyes shining with unshed tears. 

"We can face whatever comes our way. Together. We'll create our own path, our own traditions, and make it through all the shit that life throws at us."

Shubman nodded, his gaze tender and full of affection. "Yeah, together. We'll make it work. We'll face it all as a team."

Their parents watched from a short distance, their expressions a mix of relief and approval. Mrs Gill gave a small, contented smile to Mr Chandrashekar, who nodded in agreement. 

"It looks like they've made up their minds," Mrs. Gill whispered.

Mr Chandrashekar nodded, his eyes reflecting a proud satisfaction. "Yes, they have. It's good to see them so connected and committed to each other."

As Shubman and Thalia held each other close, the intensity of their conversation had transformed into a tender, heartfelt moment. 

They were enveloped in their own world, their future together taking shape amidst the backdrop of the wedding festivities.

Shubman gently cupped Thalia's face, his thumb brushing away a stray tear from her cheek. 

"We'll get through this. And we'll make it our own, no matter what anyone says."

Thalia smiled through her tears, her hands still resting on his shoulders. 

"We will. And we'll make sure that our life together is everything we want it to be."

Later that evening, the wedding reception had come to a close, and the guests had begun to disperse. The festive energy of the ceremony had given way to a more subdued atmosphere. 

Shubman watched as Thalia, who had been vibrant and animated throughout the day, began to show signs of exhaustion. Her usually bright eyes were drooping, and her movements were sluggish.

As the last of the guests filtered out of the venue, Shubman approached Thalia, who was seated on a nearby bench, trying to keep her eyes open. 

He knelt beside her, his voice low and gentle. "Hey, Lia, you look like you're about to pass out. Let me help you."

Thalia blinked wearily at him, a small, tired smile on her lips. "I'm so tired, Shubman. I think I might fall asleep right here."

Shubman nodded with a tender smile, then carefully lifted her into his arms, cradling her against his chest. 

Her saree, a flowing black fabric adorned with intricate patterns, shifted slightly, and her pallu slipped off her shoulder, revealing the back of her blouse. 

He adjusted his hold to ensure she was comfortable, then glanced down, noticing the pallu hanging loose.

With a soft chuckle, he carefully draped the pallu back over her shoulder, making sure it was securely positioned. 

His touch was gentle and considerate, his fingers brushing against her bare skin as he adjusted the fabric. 

"Can't have my girl looking like a mess, can we?" he said softly, his voice laced with affection.

Thalia mumbled something incoherent, her head resting heavily against his shoulder. Shubman smiled, his heart warming at the sight of her trust and vulnerability. 

He carried her towards his car, her head nestled against his chest, her exhaustion palpable.

He reached the vehicle, a sleek black SUV parked nearby. With practised ease, he opened the passenger door and carefully set her down on the seat. 

As he did, he noticed her saree pallu had shifted again, revealing the delicate backless design of her blouse. He gently adjusted the pallu once more, ensuring it was draped properly over her.

Shubman then reached for the seatbelt, gently pulling it across Thalia's lap. "Alright, sweetheart, just need to get you all buckled in," he said softly, his tone tender as he secured the seatbelt. 

He made sure it was snug but comfortable, his fingers brushing lightly against her arm as he worked.

With Thalia safely secured, Shubman closed the passenger door gently and walked around to the driver's side. 

He slipped into the seat, his thoughts focused on making sure she was as comfortable as possible. As he started the engine, he glanced over at her, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

"Hey, Lia," he said softly, his eyes lingering on her as he adjusted the rearview mirror. "You get some rest. I'll take you home, and you can sleep as much as you want."

Thalia stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open just enough to meet his gaze. "Thank you, Shubman," she murmured, her voice barely audible. "You're the best."

Shubman chuckled, his heart full. "I'm just doing what any good guy would do for his girl. Now, close those beautiful eyes and get some sleep. I've got this."

As he drove through the quiet streets, the gentle hum of the engine and the soft glow of the dashboard lights created a soothing atmosphere. 

Shubman's thoughts were solely on Thalia, his mind drifting to the conversation they'd had earlier. 

He felt a renewed sense of purpose, a deep commitment to making their future together as wonderful as possible.

The night air was cool and calm, a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos of the wedding. Shubman drove carefully, making sure every bump in the road was as smooth as possible. 

He stole occasional glances at Thalia, ensuring she was comfortable, her face peaceful in sleep.

When they finally arrived at her place, Shubman turned off the engine and quietly got out of the car. He opened the passenger door and gently shook Thalia's shoulder. 

"Lia, we're home. Time to wake up, sweetheart."

Thalia stirred, her eyes opening slowly. She looked at him with a sleepy, disoriented smile. "We're here?"

"Yeah, we're here," Shubman replied softly. "Let me help you inside."

He carefully helped her out of the car, supporting her as she leaned against him. With a gentle, reassuring hand, he guided her towards the entrance of her flat. 

"Let's get you inside and into bed. You deserve some well-earned rest."

Thalia nodded, her exhaustion evident but her smile still present. "Thanks, Shubman. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Shubman grinned, his eyes warm with affection. "You don't have to worry about that. I'll always be here for you, Lia."

As they entered Thalia's flat, Shubman gently guided her towards her bedroom. The evening had been exhausting, and despite the lingering excitement from the wedding, both of them were clearly ready for some rest.

Thalia's eyes were half-closed, her movements slow and deliberate. Shubman helped her to sit on the edge of the bed, then knelt down to remove her footwear. 

His fingers were deft and careful as he unlaced her heels, one by one. He glanced up at her with a soft smile, his heart swelling with affection. 

"Let's get you out of these," he said quietly. "You deserve to be comfortable."

Thalia managed a sleepy smile in response, her eyes drooping as she relaxed into the bed. "Thanks, Shubman," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Once her shoes were off, Shubman stood and removed his blazer, draping it over a nearby chair. He then turned his attention back to Thalia, who was now lying on the bed, her saree slightly wrinkled from the day's events. 

He carefully helped her adjust her position, making sure she was comfortable.

"Alright, let's get you settled," Shubman said softly, his voice soothing as he helped her lie down. He tucked the saree around her, making sure she was well-covered and cozy.

As he was about to pull away, Thalia reached out, her hand grabbing his sleeve with a gentle but insistent tug. 

"Shubman, stay with me," she said, her voice laced with sleepiness and a touch of longing. "I want you here."

Shubman's heart melted at her words. He smiled, his eyes tender as he climbed onto the bed beside her. 

They had shared the same bed countless times before, and their close physical proximity was something they both cherished. 

He settled down beside her, feeling her warmth against his side.

Thalia immediately snuggled close, her head resting on his shoulder, her arm draped over his chest. 

She fit perfectly against him as if she was meant to be there. Shubman's arm instinctively wrapped around her, pulling her closer. 

He buried his face in her hair, breathing in the familiar, comforting scent of her.

"You're so cozy," Thalia murmured, her voice muffled against his chest. "I've missed this."

Shubman chuckled softly, his breath warm against her skin. "I've missed it too, Lia. It's nice to have you close, especially after a long day."

They lay there together in comfortable silence, the world outside their cozy cocoon seeming to fade away. Shubman's fingers lightly traced patterns on Thalia's back, a soothing gesture that made her sigh contentedly.

"Shubman," Thalia whispered, her voice barely audible. "I'm really glad we're doing this. Even with all the craziness, I feel like this is right."

He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his heart full of love and determination. "Me too, Lia. We're going to make it work. I promise."

Thalia's eyes fluttered shut, her breathing deep and even as she drifted off to sleep. Shubman watched her for a moment, his gaze filled with warmth and affection. 

He felt a deep sense of contentment knowing they were together, sharing this quiet, intimate moment.

As he lay there with Thalia in his arms, Shubman's mind wandered to their future together. Despite the challenges they would undoubtedly face, he felt a renewed sense of optimism and hope. 

With Thalia by his side, he knew they could navigate anything that came their way.

It was a risk. But they were gonna take it.

soup rants!

- hello everyone!

- I hope you guys are having a great day so far, and I also hope you guys enjoyed this chapter!

- I had to make this chapter lengthy, for certain reasons, and I hope you guys understood why.

- man indian parents and their obsession with getting their kids married

- but hey, so Shub and Lia are taking the leap. [ have you seen them? gorgeous people ]

- I cried writing this chapter, ngl

- also comments on the chapter?

- I hope you guys liked this one!

- with lots of love, supraja 🫶