12-10-2026, 10:27 PM
Part 1 – An Arranged Marriage, An Unexpected Shock
Story by Sivamurugan 85
1. A New Beginning
Subha was twenty-eight years old. She was a beautiful young woman with a charming face, expressive eyes, and a naturally graceful appearance. Her long, dark hair fell well below her shoulders, adding to her beauty. Her eyes were especially attractive, revealing her emotions even when she tried to hide them. Her smile could brighten the mood of anyone around her, and her gentle way of speaking made people feel comfortable in her presence.
She was not someone who depended on expensive clothes or heavy makeup to look beautiful. Even in a simple saree, she carried herself with an elegance that attracted attention. Her fair complexion, well-defined features, and confident yet modest personality made her stand out wherever she went.
But Subha was more than just a pretty face. She was mature, thoughtful, and deeply attached to her family. She respected her parents and believed that marriage was a lifelong commitment. Although she had her own thoughts about love and relationships, she knew that her parents would eventually begin searching for a suitable groom.
Her father had a small business, and her mother was a homemaker. They had been looking for a good alliance for their daughter for some time.
One Sunday morning, Subha was helping her mother in the kitchen when her father called her.
Subha's Father: "Subha, come here for a minute. Your mother and I want to talk to you about something important. We've been thinking about your marriage for quite some time. You're twenty-eight now, and we don't want to rush you into anything, but we feel it's time to start looking seriously. We've received a proposal from a respectable family. The boy is thirty-three years old, and he owns a textile shop. From what we've heard, he's hardworking and responsible. His name is Sakthi. Before we take things any further, we want to know what you think about meeting him."
Subha stopped what she was doing and looked at her father.
Subha: "Appa, I know you've both been thinking about my marriage. I'm not against getting married, and I don't want to disappoint you either. But marriage is a big decision. I don't want us to say yes just because the family is good or because the boy has his own business. I want to meet him, talk to him, and understand what kind of person he is. If he respects me and if we feel comfortable with each other, then I'm willing to consider it. Please don't make a decision on my behalf before I get a chance to know him."
Her mother smiled and came closer.
Subha's Mother: "That's exactly what we want, dear. We aren't going to force you into anything. His family also seems to believe in doing things properly. First, they'll come and meet us. You can talk to Sakthi in front of the family, and if both of you like each other, we can discuss the next step. Your happiness matters more to us than anything else. We want you to have a husband who takes care of you, respects your feelings, and stands beside you throughout your life."
Subha nodded, although a small wave of nervousness passed through her heart.
She had no idea that the man she was about to meet would change not only her future but also the life of someone from her past.
2. Meet Sakthi
Sakthi was thirty-three years old and owned a textile shop in the town. Through years of hard work, he had established a reasonably successful business. He dealt in sarees, dress materials, men's clothing, and other textile products. His shop was doing well, and he had earned a good reputation among his customers.
He was a practical man who believed in hard work and family responsibilities. He was neither excessively talkative nor unfriendly. He preferred to think carefully before making important decisions.
His parents had been asking him to get married for quite some time.
One evening, while Sakthi was checking the accounts in his shop, his father walked in.
Sakthi's Father: "Sakthi, how long are you planning to keep postponing your marriage? You've worked hard to build your business, and we're proud of what you've achieved. But life isn't only about running a shop and making money. You need someone to share your happiness and difficulties with. We've spoken to a family about their daughter. Her name is Subha, and she's twenty-eight. Her parents seem like good people, and they have brought her up well. We haven't promised them anything yet. We simply want you to meet her and see whether you both get along."
Sakthi closed the account book and leaned back in his chair.
Sakthi: "Appa, I'm not avoiding marriage. You know how much time I spend at the shop. Sometimes I open in the morning and don't get home until late at night. I want to make sure that whoever comes into my life understands my responsibilities. I don't expect a wife to agree with everything I say, but I do want us to understand and respect each other. If Subha and her family are comfortable with me, I'm willing to meet them. Let's speak to them first and see how things go."
His father was pleased with the answer.
Sakthi's Father: "That's all we wanted to hear. Her family has agreed to come next Sunday. We'll arrange everything at home. You don't have to pretend to be someone else or try to impress them with your money. Just be yourself, speak honestly, and give the girl a chance to express her thoughts. If this alliance is meant to work, it should begin with mutual respect."
Sakthi smiled and returned to his accounts.
For him, the proposal was a new chapter in life.
For Subha, it was an uncertain step into the future.
Neither of them knew how much the past would matter.
3. The Day of the Bride-Seeing Ceremony
The following Sunday, Subha's house was filled with activity from the morning.
Her mother had prepared sweets and snacks. Her father had arranged the seating in the living room, and relatives had arrived to help welcome the groom's family.
Subha stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom.
She wore a beautiful deep-maroon silk saree with a traditional golden border. The saree complemented her figure and gave her a graceful, mature appearance. A matching blouse fitted neatly at the shoulders and sleeves. Her long black hair had been combed carefully and left partly loose, with a few strands framing her face. Small gold earrings, a delicate chain, and a tiny bindi completed her look.
Her eyes were naturally expressive, and the light makeup around them made them look even more striking. A soft smile appeared on her lips whenever she looked at herself in the mirror, but it disappeared as soon as she remembered that a family was coming to assess her as a potential bride.
Her mother entered the room and looked at her daughter with affection.
Subha's Mother: "Subha, you look lovely today. I know you're nervous, and that's completely natural. Remember, you're not going there for an examination. You're meeting another family, just as they're coming to meet us. Don't worry about whether they'll like your appearance or whether you should say something impressive. Speak naturally, and don't hide your opinions. If Sakthi is a good man, he'll appreciate you for who you are, not just for how you look. Now come downstairs. They've arrived."
Subha took a deep breath and followed her mother.
A few minutes later, Sakthi entered the house with his parents.
He wore a neatly pressed light-blue shirt and dark trousers. His appearance was simple and well-groomed. After exchanging greetings, the families settled down in the living room.
Sakthi's mother was the first to speak.
Sakthi's Mother: "We've heard a lot of good things about your family, and we're happy that we've finally had the opportunity to meet you in person. Our son runs his own textile business, so most of his time goes into managing the shop. He's a responsible person, and we're now hoping to find someone who can become a good life partner for him. We don't believe that marriage should be decided only by looking at a person's salary, property, or family background. Character and understanding matter just as much. We would like the children to meet and speak a little before either family makes a decision."
Subha's father nodded appreciatively.
Subha's Father: "We feel the same way. Our daughter has grown up with a lot of affection, and naturally, we want her to be happy after marriage. We aren't looking for a family simply because they have money or a business. We want a son-in-law who understands that a wife has feelings, expectations, and opinions of her own. At the same time, we know that no marriage is perfect from the beginning. Both people need patience and understanding. If Sakthi and Subha are comfortable with each other, we will be happy to take this proposal forward."
After some general conversation, Subha was invited to sit with Sakthi at a comfortable distance while their parents continued talking nearby.
For a few moments, neither of them knew what to say.
Finally, Sakthi smiled.
Sakthi: "Subha, I know this situation can feel a little awkward. We're sitting here because our parents think we might be suitable for each other, but we're the ones who will have to live together if this marriage happens. So I'd rather speak honestly than try to impress you. I own a textile shop, and my work can be demanding. There are days when I have to stay late or deal with unexpected problems. I want to know what you're expecting from marriage. You don't have to give me an answer that you think I'll like. Tell me what you really feel."
Subha looked at him with a little more confidence.
Subha: "I'm glad you said that, Sakthi. I also think we should speak honestly. I understand that running a business takes time and effort. I wouldn't expect you to stop working or give up your responsibilities after marriage. But I would want us to make time for each other, even if it's only a little time every day. I believe a wife should support her husband, but I also believe a husband should support his wife. I don't want a marriage where two people live under the same roof but never understand what the other person is going through. I want friendship, trust, and respect between us."
Sakthi listened carefully.
Sakthi: "That's a fair expectation, Subha. I can't promise that every day will be easy, because business has its own problems. But I can promise that I'll try to make time for my family. I don't want my wife to feel that the shop is the only thing that matters to me. I also believe that misunderstandings should be discussed instead of allowing them to grow. If something bothers you, I would prefer that you tell me directly. And if I make a mistake, I hope you'll give me a chance to understand it and correct it."
Subha smiled slightly.
Subha: "That sounds reasonable. I don't expect anyone to be perfect. I only hope that we can speak openly without being afraid of each other's reactions. I may not agree with you about everything, and there may be times when you don't agree with me. But if we can sit down and talk, I think we can handle most problems. After all, we're not just choosing someone to attend family functions with. We're choosing the person who will be beside us through the ordinary days of life."
Their conversation continued for several minutes.
Although neither of them felt an immediate romantic attraction, they found it easy to speak to each other. Sakthi appreciated Subha's maturity, while Subha felt that he was more thoughtful than she had initially expected.
Eventually, their parents asked them to join the family again.
4. The Families Make Their Decision
After Subha and Sakthi returned to the living room, the elders began discussing the proposal more seriously.
Sakthi's Father: "We've had a good conversation today, and we're happy with what we've seen. Our son is willing to move forward with this alliance, provided Subha is also comfortable. We believe that both families have similar expectations about marriage. If your daughter agrees, we'd like to discuss the engagement and wedding arrangements. We don't want to delay matters unnecessarily, but we also don't want to rush without giving the children a chance to think."
Subha's father turned towards his daughter.
Subha's Father: "Subha, you've spoken to Sakthi, and you've had the opportunity to understand a little about him. We won't ask you to agree just because we're happy with the proposal. Tell us honestly whether you feel comfortable taking this forward. Whatever you say, we'll listen to you."
Subha looked at her parents, then at Sakthi.
Subha: "Appa, Amma, I think Sakthi is a sensible person. I liked the way he spoke about marriage, and I feel that we can understand each other if we both make an effort. I'm willing to go ahead with this alliance. I know that meeting someone once doesn't tell us everything about them, but I feel comfortable enough to take the next step."
A broad smile appeared on both families' faces.
Sakthi's mother immediately offered sweets to Subha.
Sakthi's Mother: "We're very happy to hear that, Subha. From today, please think of us as your own family. We know that there will be many new things for you to get used to after marriage, and we'll do our best to make you feel comfortable. We want you to come into our home with happiness, not fear. Let us discuss an engagement date that works for both families."
The elders began discussing auspicious dates, the engagement arrangements, and the possible wedding month.
The bride-seeing ceremony had ended successfully.
The arranged marriage was moving forward.
But somewhere far away, a man who knew nothing about this proposal was about to receive a phone call that would change his life in an entirely different way.
His name was Vishal.
5. Sakthi Calls His Best Friend
Vishal was twenty-nine years old and had been Sakthi's close friend for several years. Their friendship was built on trust, jokes, and countless conversations about work and life.
However, Vishal was currently abroad on a work-related assignment. He had left India before Sakthi's bride-seeing ceremony, and his schedule was packed with professional responsibilities.
He knew that Sakthi's parents were looking for a bride for him, but he had no idea who the girl was. Sakthi had not told him Subha's name, and Vishal had never seen her photograph.
That evening, after the families had agreed to proceed with the alliance, Sakthi called Vishal.
Vishal answered after a few rings.
Vishal: "Hey, Sakthi! What's going on, man? I was just about to call you. I've been caught up with work for the past few days, and I barely get any free time here. Tell me, how are things back home? Is the shop doing well? And what's happening with your marriage plans? Last time we spoke, you said your parents were arranging a bride-seeing ceremony. Don't tell me you've already found someone and are preparing to get married without even giving me a chance to tease you properly!"
Sakthi laughed at his friend's enthusiasm.
Sakthi: "You haven't changed at all, Vishal. Even when you're on the other side of the world, your first priority is finding a reason to tease me. Yes, the bride-seeing ceremony took place today, and things went well. The girl's name is Subha. She's twenty-eight, and her family seems good. We had a chance to speak, and I liked her attitude towards marriage. She's sensible, speaks clearly, and seems to understand the importance of mutual respect. Our families have agreed to move forward with the alliance, so the engagement will probably happen soon. If everything goes according to plan, the wedding may be arranged within the next few months."
Vishal sat up in his chair.
Vishal: "Wait a minute! You're telling me that you met a girl today, spoke to her for a little while, and now the families are already discussing the engagement? That's fast, even by arranged-marriage standards! But seriously, I'm happy for you, da. You've spent years building your business, and you've always said you wanted a partner who would understand your responsibilities. If you've found someone you feel comfortable with, I hope everything works out well. At least send me an invitation in advance. I don't want to find out about your wedding from somebody else's social media post!"
Sakthi: "Of course I'll invite you, you idiot! You're one of my closest friends. How can I get married without you being there? But there's one small problem. You're abroad, and you keep saying your work schedule is unpredictable. I don't know whether you'll be able to return when the wedding date is fixed. If you can't come, I'll never let you forget that you missed my wedding. I'll bring it up every time we speak for the next ten years!"
Vishal laughed loudly.
Vishal: "Listen carefully. I might be busy, but I'll do everything I can to attend your wedding. You're not just an ordinary friend to me. We've shared too many memories for me to miss such an important day. Once you have the date, tell me immediately. I'll speak to my office and see what arrangements I can make. And one more thing, I want to meet this mysterious Subha before you get married. At the very least, I should get to see the woman who's finally convinced my friend to settle down!"
Sakthi smiled, looking at the family members who were still discussing the engagement arrangements in the next room.
Sakthi: "You'll meet her when you come here for the wedding. There's no need to worry about anything now. I'm happy with how things have gone, and our families are happy too. For the moment, I just want to finish the engagement arrangements and concentrate on the shop. Once the wedding date is confirmed, you'll be the first person I call. Now tell me about your work. When are you coming back to India? You've been away for so long that we've almost forgotten what you look like!"
Vishal: "I'm hoping to finish this assignment soon, but I can't promise an exact date yet. There's still some work pending, and the company wants me to stay until everything is completed. I'll keep you updated. Don't worry about me, though. You focus on your marriage preparations. And Sakthi, I'm genuinely happy for you. I hope this new chapter brings you all the happiness you've been waiting for. When I return, we'll celebrate properly, and you can tell me every detail about how you met Subha and how the whole arrangement came together."
The two friends continued talking for a few more minutes before ending the call.
Sakthi returned to his family, unaware that his best friend's cheerful congratulations carried a hidden irony.
Vishal, meanwhile, returned to his work abroad.
He had no idea who Subha was.
He had no idea that the woman Sakthi was preparing to marry was the same woman he had once loved.
And he had absolutely no idea that, on the day of the wedding, he would be standing face-to-face with the woman he had never truly forgotten.
6. The Engagement
A few weeks later, both families gathered at a marriage hall for the engagement ceremony.
Subha wore a rich green silk saree with a gold border. Her long hair was decorated with jasmine flowers, and a delicate gold necklace rested against her neck. Her expressive eyes and warm smile drew the attention of the relatives who came to congratulate her.
Sakthi wore a cream-coloured shirt and a traditional veshti. He looked happy and confident as he sat beside Subha on the decorated stage.
The elders exchanged gifts, the rings were brought forward, and the engagement ceremony began.
Subha's father addressed the gathering.
Subha's Father: "Today is a very happy day for our family. We're pleased that our daughter Subha and Sakthi have agreed to begin this new chapter together. Marriage is not simply about two people exchanging rings in front of their relatives. It's about two people promising to stand beside each other when life is easy and when it becomes difficult. We pray that they will always treat each other with love, patience, and respect. On behalf of our family, I thank everyone who has come here to bless the couple."
Sakthi's father followed.
Sakthi's Father: "We're equally happy to welcome Subha into our family. From the day we first spoke to her parents, we felt that this alliance had the potential to become a good relationship between two families. Today, we're taking another important step towards their marriage. We hope that our children will build a life filled with happiness, understanding, and trust. We ask all of you to bless them and pray that their future together will be bright."
The rings were exchanged amid applause.
Subha and Sakthi smiled for the photographs as their relatives congratulated them.
After the ceremony, Sakthi found a quiet moment to speak to his fiancée.
Sakthi: "Subha, now that the engagement is over, everything suddenly feels more real. Until today, marriage was something our parents were discussing and arranging. But now, when I look at you sitting beside me, I realise that we're actually preparing to begin a life together. I know we still have a lot to learn about each other, and I don't want either of us to feel pressured to become a perfect husband or wife overnight. I want us to take our time, talk openly, and gradually build a relationship that makes both of us happy."
Subha: "I feel the same way, Sakthi. I'm happy that the engagement went well, and I'm looking forward to our wedding. At the same time, I know that marriage brings new responsibilities. We may have different habits, different expectations, and different ways of looking at things. I hope that we'll give each other enough time to adjust. I don't want us to pretend that everything is perfect just because we're engaged. I'd rather we remain honest with each other and learn how to become good partners as time goes by."
Sakthi nodded with a smile.
Neither of them noticed the shadow that their future was about to cast over their happiness.
7. The Wedding Day
The wedding day arrived sooner than everyone expected.
The marriage hall was beautifully decorated with flowers, traditional lamps, and colourful fabrics. Relatives moved from one place to another, photographers arranged their cameras, and the sound of the wedding music filled the hall.
Subha sat in the bridal room, dressed in a stunning traditional wedding saree. The rich silk fabric, intricate gold jewellery, and flowers woven into her long hair made her look radiant. Her face carried a mixture of happiness and nervousness as the women around her helped with the final arrangements.
Every detail of her appearance seemed to reflect the importance of the day. Her eyes were bright, her smile was gentle, and the traditional bridal decorations enhanced her natural beauty without taking away her simplicity.
Outside, Sakthi was welcoming relatives and checking the wedding arrangements.
Vishal's flight had landed earlier that morning. After completing the necessary formalities and travelling to the marriage hall, he arrived just as the preparations were reaching their busiest stage.
He was dressed in a dark formal suit, carrying a small travel bag. He had been looking forward to seeing Sakthi, congratulating him in person, and meeting the bride for the first time.
As he entered the hall, Sakthi spotted him immediately.
Sakthi: "Vishal! You actually made it, da! I honestly thought your work would keep you there until the last minute. I'm so happy you've come. You've arrived just in time, because the wedding ceremony will begin shortly. Come inside. I've been waiting to introduce you to everyone. You know how much your friendship means to me, and having you here today makes this occasion even more special. Come, let me take you closer to the stage so you can meet my family and my bride."
Vishal grinned and shook his friend's hand.
Vishal: "How could I miss your wedding, da? I had to rearrange my work, but I managed to get permission and catch the flight. I've been waiting for this day ever since you told me about the engagement. So, where is the famous Subha? You've spoken so much about how sensible and understanding she is, but you haven't even shown me a photograph. At this point, I'm beginning to suspect that you're deliberately keeping her hidden just so you can surprise me on the wedding day!"
Sakthi laughed and placed a hand on Vishal's shoulder.
Sakthi: "There's no big mystery, you fool! Everything happened so quickly, and between running the shop and arranging the wedding, I never got around to sending you her photograph. Anyway, you'll see her in a moment. She's getting ready in the bridal room, and the family will bring her to the stage shortly. Just wait here with me. Once the ceremony begins, I'll introduce you properly. Today is going to be one of the happiest days of my life, and I'm glad my best friend is standing beside me."
Vishal nodded and looked towards the decorated stage.
A few minutes later, the wedding music grew louder.
The relatives began moving towards their seats.
The bridal procession started.
And then Vishal saw her.
A woman in a magnificent wedding saree was walking towards the stage, surrounded by relatives. Her long hair was adorned with flowers, and her face carried the same beauty that had remained in his memories for years.
Vishal's smile disappeared.
His eyes widened.
His body became completely still.
For a moment, the sounds of the wedding hall seemed to fade away.
It was Subha.
The woman he had once loved.
The woman he had never expected to see again.
The woman who was now walking towards his best friend, dressed as his bride.
Vishal stared at her in disbelief, unable to understand how fate had brought them together in such a cruel and unexpected way.
Vishal (thinking): "Subha...? No, this can't be happening. Of all the people in the world, how could it be her? Sakthi's bride is Subha? The same Subha I loved? The same woman I thought I would never see again? Why didn't I know? Why didn't anyone tell me her name? How am I supposed to stand here and watch the woman I once loved marry my best friend?"
Subha reached the stage.
She looked up and noticed Vishal standing beside Sakthi.
For one brief moment, her eyes met his.
Her smile faded.
Recognition flashed across her face.
She stopped walking.
Sakthi, unaware of the storm that had suddenly erupted between the two people standing before him, turned towards his friend with a proud smile.
Sakthi: "Vishal, come here! I want you to meet my bride properly. This is Subha, the woman I've told you about. Subha, this is Vishal, my closest friend. He's been away abroad for work, and he travelled all the way back to India to attend our wedding. He's like a brother to me, and I'm really happy that he's here to share this important day with us."
Vishal could not answer.
He looked at Subha, then at Sakthi.
His best friend was standing beside the woman he had once loved, preparing to marry her.
Subha's hands trembled slightly as she tried to maintain her composure.
Neither of them spoke.
And Sakthi, still smiling, had no idea that the biggest secret of his wedding had just been revealed.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Story by Sivamurugan 85
1. A New Beginning
Subha was twenty-eight years old. She was a beautiful young woman with a charming face, expressive eyes, and a naturally graceful appearance. Her long, dark hair fell well below her shoulders, adding to her beauty. Her eyes were especially attractive, revealing her emotions even when she tried to hide them. Her smile could brighten the mood of anyone around her, and her gentle way of speaking made people feel comfortable in her presence.
She was not someone who depended on expensive clothes or heavy makeup to look beautiful. Even in a simple saree, she carried herself with an elegance that attracted attention. Her fair complexion, well-defined features, and confident yet modest personality made her stand out wherever she went.
But Subha was more than just a pretty face. She was mature, thoughtful, and deeply attached to her family. She respected her parents and believed that marriage was a lifelong commitment. Although she had her own thoughts about love and relationships, she knew that her parents would eventually begin searching for a suitable groom.
Her father had a small business, and her mother was a homemaker. They had been looking for a good alliance for their daughter for some time.
One Sunday morning, Subha was helping her mother in the kitchen when her father called her.
Subha's Father: "Subha, come here for a minute. Your mother and I want to talk to you about something important. We've been thinking about your marriage for quite some time. You're twenty-eight now, and we don't want to rush you into anything, but we feel it's time to start looking seriously. We've received a proposal from a respectable family. The boy is thirty-three years old, and he owns a textile shop. From what we've heard, he's hardworking and responsible. His name is Sakthi. Before we take things any further, we want to know what you think about meeting him."
Subha stopped what she was doing and looked at her father.
Subha: "Appa, I know you've both been thinking about my marriage. I'm not against getting married, and I don't want to disappoint you either. But marriage is a big decision. I don't want us to say yes just because the family is good or because the boy has his own business. I want to meet him, talk to him, and understand what kind of person he is. If he respects me and if we feel comfortable with each other, then I'm willing to consider it. Please don't make a decision on my behalf before I get a chance to know him."
Her mother smiled and came closer.
Subha's Mother: "That's exactly what we want, dear. We aren't going to force you into anything. His family also seems to believe in doing things properly. First, they'll come and meet us. You can talk to Sakthi in front of the family, and if both of you like each other, we can discuss the next step. Your happiness matters more to us than anything else. We want you to have a husband who takes care of you, respects your feelings, and stands beside you throughout your life."
Subha nodded, although a small wave of nervousness passed through her heart.
She had no idea that the man she was about to meet would change not only her future but also the life of someone from her past.
2. Meet Sakthi
Sakthi was thirty-three years old and owned a textile shop in the town. Through years of hard work, he had established a reasonably successful business. He dealt in sarees, dress materials, men's clothing, and other textile products. His shop was doing well, and he had earned a good reputation among his customers.
He was a practical man who believed in hard work and family responsibilities. He was neither excessively talkative nor unfriendly. He preferred to think carefully before making important decisions.
His parents had been asking him to get married for quite some time.
One evening, while Sakthi was checking the accounts in his shop, his father walked in.
Sakthi's Father: "Sakthi, how long are you planning to keep postponing your marriage? You've worked hard to build your business, and we're proud of what you've achieved. But life isn't only about running a shop and making money. You need someone to share your happiness and difficulties with. We've spoken to a family about their daughter. Her name is Subha, and she's twenty-eight. Her parents seem like good people, and they have brought her up well. We haven't promised them anything yet. We simply want you to meet her and see whether you both get along."
Sakthi closed the account book and leaned back in his chair.
Sakthi: "Appa, I'm not avoiding marriage. You know how much time I spend at the shop. Sometimes I open in the morning and don't get home until late at night. I want to make sure that whoever comes into my life understands my responsibilities. I don't expect a wife to agree with everything I say, but I do want us to understand and respect each other. If Subha and her family are comfortable with me, I'm willing to meet them. Let's speak to them first and see how things go."
His father was pleased with the answer.
Sakthi's Father: "That's all we wanted to hear. Her family has agreed to come next Sunday. We'll arrange everything at home. You don't have to pretend to be someone else or try to impress them with your money. Just be yourself, speak honestly, and give the girl a chance to express her thoughts. If this alliance is meant to work, it should begin with mutual respect."
Sakthi smiled and returned to his accounts.
For him, the proposal was a new chapter in life.
For Subha, it was an uncertain step into the future.
Neither of them knew how much the past would matter.
3. The Day of the Bride-Seeing Ceremony
The following Sunday, Subha's house was filled with activity from the morning.
Her mother had prepared sweets and snacks. Her father had arranged the seating in the living room, and relatives had arrived to help welcome the groom's family.
Subha stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom.
She wore a beautiful deep-maroon silk saree with a traditional golden border. The saree complemented her figure and gave her a graceful, mature appearance. A matching blouse fitted neatly at the shoulders and sleeves. Her long black hair had been combed carefully and left partly loose, with a few strands framing her face. Small gold earrings, a delicate chain, and a tiny bindi completed her look.
Her eyes were naturally expressive, and the light makeup around them made them look even more striking. A soft smile appeared on her lips whenever she looked at herself in the mirror, but it disappeared as soon as she remembered that a family was coming to assess her as a potential bride.
Her mother entered the room and looked at her daughter with affection.
Subha's Mother: "Subha, you look lovely today. I know you're nervous, and that's completely natural. Remember, you're not going there for an examination. You're meeting another family, just as they're coming to meet us. Don't worry about whether they'll like your appearance or whether you should say something impressive. Speak naturally, and don't hide your opinions. If Sakthi is a good man, he'll appreciate you for who you are, not just for how you look. Now come downstairs. They've arrived."
Subha took a deep breath and followed her mother.
A few minutes later, Sakthi entered the house with his parents.
He wore a neatly pressed light-blue shirt and dark trousers. His appearance was simple and well-groomed. After exchanging greetings, the families settled down in the living room.
Sakthi's mother was the first to speak.
Sakthi's Mother: "We've heard a lot of good things about your family, and we're happy that we've finally had the opportunity to meet you in person. Our son runs his own textile business, so most of his time goes into managing the shop. He's a responsible person, and we're now hoping to find someone who can become a good life partner for him. We don't believe that marriage should be decided only by looking at a person's salary, property, or family background. Character and understanding matter just as much. We would like the children to meet and speak a little before either family makes a decision."
Subha's father nodded appreciatively.
Subha's Father: "We feel the same way. Our daughter has grown up with a lot of affection, and naturally, we want her to be happy after marriage. We aren't looking for a family simply because they have money or a business. We want a son-in-law who understands that a wife has feelings, expectations, and opinions of her own. At the same time, we know that no marriage is perfect from the beginning. Both people need patience and understanding. If Sakthi and Subha are comfortable with each other, we will be happy to take this proposal forward."
After some general conversation, Subha was invited to sit with Sakthi at a comfortable distance while their parents continued talking nearby.
For a few moments, neither of them knew what to say.
Finally, Sakthi smiled.
Sakthi: "Subha, I know this situation can feel a little awkward. We're sitting here because our parents think we might be suitable for each other, but we're the ones who will have to live together if this marriage happens. So I'd rather speak honestly than try to impress you. I own a textile shop, and my work can be demanding. There are days when I have to stay late or deal with unexpected problems. I want to know what you're expecting from marriage. You don't have to give me an answer that you think I'll like. Tell me what you really feel."
Subha looked at him with a little more confidence.
Subha: "I'm glad you said that, Sakthi. I also think we should speak honestly. I understand that running a business takes time and effort. I wouldn't expect you to stop working or give up your responsibilities after marriage. But I would want us to make time for each other, even if it's only a little time every day. I believe a wife should support her husband, but I also believe a husband should support his wife. I don't want a marriage where two people live under the same roof but never understand what the other person is going through. I want friendship, trust, and respect between us."
Sakthi listened carefully.
Sakthi: "That's a fair expectation, Subha. I can't promise that every day will be easy, because business has its own problems. But I can promise that I'll try to make time for my family. I don't want my wife to feel that the shop is the only thing that matters to me. I also believe that misunderstandings should be discussed instead of allowing them to grow. If something bothers you, I would prefer that you tell me directly. And if I make a mistake, I hope you'll give me a chance to understand it and correct it."
Subha smiled slightly.
Subha: "That sounds reasonable. I don't expect anyone to be perfect. I only hope that we can speak openly without being afraid of each other's reactions. I may not agree with you about everything, and there may be times when you don't agree with me. But if we can sit down and talk, I think we can handle most problems. After all, we're not just choosing someone to attend family functions with. We're choosing the person who will be beside us through the ordinary days of life."
Their conversation continued for several minutes.
Although neither of them felt an immediate romantic attraction, they found it easy to speak to each other. Sakthi appreciated Subha's maturity, while Subha felt that he was more thoughtful than she had initially expected.
Eventually, their parents asked them to join the family again.
4. The Families Make Their Decision
After Subha and Sakthi returned to the living room, the elders began discussing the proposal more seriously.
Sakthi's Father: "We've had a good conversation today, and we're happy with what we've seen. Our son is willing to move forward with this alliance, provided Subha is also comfortable. We believe that both families have similar expectations about marriage. If your daughter agrees, we'd like to discuss the engagement and wedding arrangements. We don't want to delay matters unnecessarily, but we also don't want to rush without giving the children a chance to think."
Subha's father turned towards his daughter.
Subha's Father: "Subha, you've spoken to Sakthi, and you've had the opportunity to understand a little about him. We won't ask you to agree just because we're happy with the proposal. Tell us honestly whether you feel comfortable taking this forward. Whatever you say, we'll listen to you."
Subha looked at her parents, then at Sakthi.
Subha: "Appa, Amma, I think Sakthi is a sensible person. I liked the way he spoke about marriage, and I feel that we can understand each other if we both make an effort. I'm willing to go ahead with this alliance. I know that meeting someone once doesn't tell us everything about them, but I feel comfortable enough to take the next step."
A broad smile appeared on both families' faces.
Sakthi's mother immediately offered sweets to Subha.
Sakthi's Mother: "We're very happy to hear that, Subha. From today, please think of us as your own family. We know that there will be many new things for you to get used to after marriage, and we'll do our best to make you feel comfortable. We want you to come into our home with happiness, not fear. Let us discuss an engagement date that works for both families."
The elders began discussing auspicious dates, the engagement arrangements, and the possible wedding month.
The bride-seeing ceremony had ended successfully.
The arranged marriage was moving forward.
But somewhere far away, a man who knew nothing about this proposal was about to receive a phone call that would change his life in an entirely different way.
His name was Vishal.
5. Sakthi Calls His Best Friend
Vishal was twenty-nine years old and had been Sakthi's close friend for several years. Their friendship was built on trust, jokes, and countless conversations about work and life.
However, Vishal was currently abroad on a work-related assignment. He had left India before Sakthi's bride-seeing ceremony, and his schedule was packed with professional responsibilities.
He knew that Sakthi's parents were looking for a bride for him, but he had no idea who the girl was. Sakthi had not told him Subha's name, and Vishal had never seen her photograph.
That evening, after the families had agreed to proceed with the alliance, Sakthi called Vishal.
Vishal answered after a few rings.
Vishal: "Hey, Sakthi! What's going on, man? I was just about to call you. I've been caught up with work for the past few days, and I barely get any free time here. Tell me, how are things back home? Is the shop doing well? And what's happening with your marriage plans? Last time we spoke, you said your parents were arranging a bride-seeing ceremony. Don't tell me you've already found someone and are preparing to get married without even giving me a chance to tease you properly!"
Sakthi laughed at his friend's enthusiasm.
Sakthi: "You haven't changed at all, Vishal. Even when you're on the other side of the world, your first priority is finding a reason to tease me. Yes, the bride-seeing ceremony took place today, and things went well. The girl's name is Subha. She's twenty-eight, and her family seems good. We had a chance to speak, and I liked her attitude towards marriage. She's sensible, speaks clearly, and seems to understand the importance of mutual respect. Our families have agreed to move forward with the alliance, so the engagement will probably happen soon. If everything goes according to plan, the wedding may be arranged within the next few months."
Vishal sat up in his chair.
Vishal: "Wait a minute! You're telling me that you met a girl today, spoke to her for a little while, and now the families are already discussing the engagement? That's fast, even by arranged-marriage standards! But seriously, I'm happy for you, da. You've spent years building your business, and you've always said you wanted a partner who would understand your responsibilities. If you've found someone you feel comfortable with, I hope everything works out well. At least send me an invitation in advance. I don't want to find out about your wedding from somebody else's social media post!"
Sakthi: "Of course I'll invite you, you idiot! You're one of my closest friends. How can I get married without you being there? But there's one small problem. You're abroad, and you keep saying your work schedule is unpredictable. I don't know whether you'll be able to return when the wedding date is fixed. If you can't come, I'll never let you forget that you missed my wedding. I'll bring it up every time we speak for the next ten years!"
Vishal laughed loudly.
Vishal: "Listen carefully. I might be busy, but I'll do everything I can to attend your wedding. You're not just an ordinary friend to me. We've shared too many memories for me to miss such an important day. Once you have the date, tell me immediately. I'll speak to my office and see what arrangements I can make. And one more thing, I want to meet this mysterious Subha before you get married. At the very least, I should get to see the woman who's finally convinced my friend to settle down!"
Sakthi smiled, looking at the family members who were still discussing the engagement arrangements in the next room.
Sakthi: "You'll meet her when you come here for the wedding. There's no need to worry about anything now. I'm happy with how things have gone, and our families are happy too. For the moment, I just want to finish the engagement arrangements and concentrate on the shop. Once the wedding date is confirmed, you'll be the first person I call. Now tell me about your work. When are you coming back to India? You've been away for so long that we've almost forgotten what you look like!"
Vishal: "I'm hoping to finish this assignment soon, but I can't promise an exact date yet. There's still some work pending, and the company wants me to stay until everything is completed. I'll keep you updated. Don't worry about me, though. You focus on your marriage preparations. And Sakthi, I'm genuinely happy for you. I hope this new chapter brings you all the happiness you've been waiting for. When I return, we'll celebrate properly, and you can tell me every detail about how you met Subha and how the whole arrangement came together."
The two friends continued talking for a few more minutes before ending the call.
Sakthi returned to his family, unaware that his best friend's cheerful congratulations carried a hidden irony.
Vishal, meanwhile, returned to his work abroad.
He had no idea who Subha was.
He had no idea that the woman Sakthi was preparing to marry was the same woman he had once loved.
And he had absolutely no idea that, on the day of the wedding, he would be standing face-to-face with the woman he had never truly forgotten.
6. The Engagement
A few weeks later, both families gathered at a marriage hall for the engagement ceremony.
Subha wore a rich green silk saree with a gold border. Her long hair was decorated with jasmine flowers, and a delicate gold necklace rested against her neck. Her expressive eyes and warm smile drew the attention of the relatives who came to congratulate her.
Sakthi wore a cream-coloured shirt and a traditional veshti. He looked happy and confident as he sat beside Subha on the decorated stage.
The elders exchanged gifts, the rings were brought forward, and the engagement ceremony began.
Subha's father addressed the gathering.
Subha's Father: "Today is a very happy day for our family. We're pleased that our daughter Subha and Sakthi have agreed to begin this new chapter together. Marriage is not simply about two people exchanging rings in front of their relatives. It's about two people promising to stand beside each other when life is easy and when it becomes difficult. We pray that they will always treat each other with love, patience, and respect. On behalf of our family, I thank everyone who has come here to bless the couple."
Sakthi's father followed.
Sakthi's Father: "We're equally happy to welcome Subha into our family. From the day we first spoke to her parents, we felt that this alliance had the potential to become a good relationship between two families. Today, we're taking another important step towards their marriage. We hope that our children will build a life filled with happiness, understanding, and trust. We ask all of you to bless them and pray that their future together will be bright."
The rings were exchanged amid applause.
Subha and Sakthi smiled for the photographs as their relatives congratulated them.
After the ceremony, Sakthi found a quiet moment to speak to his fiancée.
Sakthi: "Subha, now that the engagement is over, everything suddenly feels more real. Until today, marriage was something our parents were discussing and arranging. But now, when I look at you sitting beside me, I realise that we're actually preparing to begin a life together. I know we still have a lot to learn about each other, and I don't want either of us to feel pressured to become a perfect husband or wife overnight. I want us to take our time, talk openly, and gradually build a relationship that makes both of us happy."
Subha: "I feel the same way, Sakthi. I'm happy that the engagement went well, and I'm looking forward to our wedding. At the same time, I know that marriage brings new responsibilities. We may have different habits, different expectations, and different ways of looking at things. I hope that we'll give each other enough time to adjust. I don't want us to pretend that everything is perfect just because we're engaged. I'd rather we remain honest with each other and learn how to become good partners as time goes by."
Sakthi nodded with a smile.
Neither of them noticed the shadow that their future was about to cast over their happiness.
7. The Wedding Day
The wedding day arrived sooner than everyone expected.
The marriage hall was beautifully decorated with flowers, traditional lamps, and colourful fabrics. Relatives moved from one place to another, photographers arranged their cameras, and the sound of the wedding music filled the hall.
Subha sat in the bridal room, dressed in a stunning traditional wedding saree. The rich silk fabric, intricate gold jewellery, and flowers woven into her long hair made her look radiant. Her face carried a mixture of happiness and nervousness as the women around her helped with the final arrangements.
Every detail of her appearance seemed to reflect the importance of the day. Her eyes were bright, her smile was gentle, and the traditional bridal decorations enhanced her natural beauty without taking away her simplicity.
Outside, Sakthi was welcoming relatives and checking the wedding arrangements.
Vishal's flight had landed earlier that morning. After completing the necessary formalities and travelling to the marriage hall, he arrived just as the preparations were reaching their busiest stage.
He was dressed in a dark formal suit, carrying a small travel bag. He had been looking forward to seeing Sakthi, congratulating him in person, and meeting the bride for the first time.
As he entered the hall, Sakthi spotted him immediately.
Sakthi: "Vishal! You actually made it, da! I honestly thought your work would keep you there until the last minute. I'm so happy you've come. You've arrived just in time, because the wedding ceremony will begin shortly. Come inside. I've been waiting to introduce you to everyone. You know how much your friendship means to me, and having you here today makes this occasion even more special. Come, let me take you closer to the stage so you can meet my family and my bride."
Vishal grinned and shook his friend's hand.
Vishal: "How could I miss your wedding, da? I had to rearrange my work, but I managed to get permission and catch the flight. I've been waiting for this day ever since you told me about the engagement. So, where is the famous Subha? You've spoken so much about how sensible and understanding she is, but you haven't even shown me a photograph. At this point, I'm beginning to suspect that you're deliberately keeping her hidden just so you can surprise me on the wedding day!"
Sakthi laughed and placed a hand on Vishal's shoulder.
Sakthi: "There's no big mystery, you fool! Everything happened so quickly, and between running the shop and arranging the wedding, I never got around to sending you her photograph. Anyway, you'll see her in a moment. She's getting ready in the bridal room, and the family will bring her to the stage shortly. Just wait here with me. Once the ceremony begins, I'll introduce you properly. Today is going to be one of the happiest days of my life, and I'm glad my best friend is standing beside me."
Vishal nodded and looked towards the decorated stage.
A few minutes later, the wedding music grew louder.
The relatives began moving towards their seats.
The bridal procession started.
And then Vishal saw her.
A woman in a magnificent wedding saree was walking towards the stage, surrounded by relatives. Her long hair was adorned with flowers, and her face carried the same beauty that had remained in his memories for years.
Vishal's smile disappeared.
His eyes widened.
His body became completely still.
For a moment, the sounds of the wedding hall seemed to fade away.
It was Subha.
The woman he had once loved.
The woman he had never expected to see again.
The woman who was now walking towards his best friend, dressed as his bride.
Vishal stared at her in disbelief, unable to understand how fate had brought them together in such a cruel and unexpected way.
Vishal (thinking): "Subha...? No, this can't be happening. Of all the people in the world, how could it be her? Sakthi's bride is Subha? The same Subha I loved? The same woman I thought I would never see again? Why didn't I know? Why didn't anyone tell me her name? How am I supposed to stand here and watch the woman I once loved marry my best friend?"
Subha reached the stage.
She looked up and noticed Vishal standing beside Sakthi.
For one brief moment, her eyes met his.
Her smile faded.
Recognition flashed across her face.
She stopped walking.
Sakthi, unaware of the storm that had suddenly erupted between the two people standing before him, turned towards his friend with a proud smile.
Sakthi: "Vishal, come here! I want you to meet my bride properly. This is Subha, the woman I've told you about. Subha, this is Vishal, my closest friend. He's been away abroad for work, and he travelled all the way back to India to attend our wedding. He's like a brother to me, and I'm really happy that he's here to share this important day with us."
Vishal could not answer.
He looked at Subha, then at Sakthi.
His best friend was standing beside the woman he had once loved, preparing to marry her.
Subha's hands trembled slightly as she tried to maintain her composure.
Neither of them spoke.
And Sakthi, still smiling, had no idea that the biggest secret of his wedding had just been revealed.
TO BE CONTINUED...
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