On Monday morning, as Nakul promised Nandini, he called the lawyer with papers. Nandini read all the papers and signed them. Now, Nandini is the owner of the mansion her mother purchased for her years ago for her to gift for her 18 th birthday gift. She also checks all her mother's jewellery as listed on the papers. After checking that all the jewellery is here. After that, the lawyer collected the papers and went back as he needed to submit them to the court. She collected all the papers and jewellery and went back to her room.

NEXT DAY

The Malhotra family arrived at the Mehta residence with the traditional gravitas of an old-money dynasty. Though Manik was absent due to an international corporate crisis that had been scheduled months prior, the delegation was formidable.

Nyonika Malhotra, Manik’s mother, was a woman of immense grace, her eyes sharp but warm. She was accompanied by Pallavi, Manik’s Chachi, and the younger sisters, Kriti and her cousin Ayushi.

As Nandini entered the living room dressed in a simple, elegant ivory suit, the room fell silent. She greeted the elders with a respectful, traditional namaste.

Nyonika watched her closely as she sat down. There was no pretence in Nandini’s movements, no eager desire to please that Nyonika often saw in societal circles. There was only a calm, poised dignity.

"She is beautiful, Bhabhi," Pallavi whispered to Nyonika, who smiled warmly.

The Roka ceremony was performed with quiet elegance. Nyonika placed a stunning diamond set and the traditional shagun of gold coins into Nandini’s hands. As she patted Nandini’s cheek, Nyonika noticed the slight coolness of her skin but chose not to comment on it.

"Manik was deeply apologetic that he couldn't be here, beta," Nyonika said softly, her hand lingering on Nandini's shoulder. "The overseas acquisition was finalized months ago, and he had to fly out last night. You will meet him directly at the wedding altar. I hope you do not mind."

"I understand, Aunty," Nandini replied smoothly. "Business demands respect."

Nyonika’s smile widened; she appreciated the maturity. She said, "Beta, Aunty nahi Mumma, Mom or Ma now you can call me anything you like."

Nandini replied with a heavy heart but a clear voice, "I understand, Mumma."

After an hour of polite conversation, during which Sarah handled the hosting with her usual social perfection, the Malhotra ladies took their leave, thoroughly charmed by the quiet girl who was to become their eldest daughter-in-law.

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