Chapter 19. Heartbreaking Farewell II

The moment had arrived. I walked down the aisle with my father on one side, my mother on the other, and Lucas trailing behind us. The anticipation was palpable as we approached the corridor leading to the mandap.

Entering the sacred area where the mandap stood, I could feel the weight of countless eyes upon me. Among those intense gazes, one stood out—the piercing stare of my soon-to-be husband. I lacked the courage to meet his eyes, so I kept my focus on my intertwined fingers, their nervous fidgeting serving as a distraction. With each step, I could sense the scrutiny of the gathering.

Finally, we reached the stage, and my mother gently squeezed my arm, signaling me to ascend the stairs and stand by Cassian's side. I carefully held up my heavy lengha to avoid tripping and adding embarrassment to my anxiety while climbing the steps.

As I prepared to take that crucial step onto the stage, a hand suddenly appeared before me. I lifted my gaze to see none other t