The grand hall was filled with the vibrant buzz of laughter, music, and clinking glasses. Zara’s wedding had brought together old classmates, family, and friends, creating a nostalgic yet celebratory atmosphere. Amidst the decorations and festivities, two best friends found themselves lamenting their single status.

Isha dramatically wiped an imaginary tear from her eye.

"Ayesha, I know this is wedding season, but too many weddings just make me feel even more single!"

Jiya joined in the mock drama, crying exaggeratedly as well.

"Come on, Isha. We three know we're gonna die single."

Their playful exchange masked a deeper sense of frustration. It seemed like everyone around them was pairing off, leaving them to wonder when their time would come.

"I still can't believe Zara is getting married, bro,"

Ayesha scoffed, shaking her head.

"In school, she changed boyfriends like a hundred times. I hope she doesn't get a divorce with this guy and marry another."

Isha laughed, shaking off the lingering bitterness.

"Let's go grab some drinks. Not a husband or boyfriend, but drinks will always be there for us."

"Okay, fine!"

Ayesha agreed, her laughter echoing through the hall as they made their way to the bar.

At the bar, the three friends were caught up in their conversation when Ayesha's expression turned mischievous.

"By the way, what about Mehra, your fake boyfriend?

"He’s back in Mumbai after years." Jiya said

Isha rolled her eyes.

"First, stop with that smirk. And yeah, I know he’s back. That creep seriously... He asked me to be his fake girlfriend like it was nothing. I swear, I’m about to tell him, 'Bro, let’s break up this fake relationship. I’m done.'"

"Can't you see, you little—"

Before he could finish her sentence, she looked up to see Kabir Mehra standing before her, his eyes locked on hers. He started to speak, but the words caught in his throat as he took in her appearance.

"I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to do it, but you suddenly bumped into me and the drink fell on you—"

"Bhai" Jiya said in shock

Just then, a voice called out. "Kabir! Come on, we’re getting late. And what have you done to your shirt— Oh, Isha , right? How are you, my daughter-in-law?"

Isha blinked in confusion, her mind struggling to process the rapid turn of events.

"I’m sorry, but I don’t recognize you. Who are you, Aunty?"

"Mom what are you doing here!?"Jiya asked confusingly

"Oh, you forgot? anyways I’m Kabir’s mom, Kabir Mehra’s mom, your boyfriend and soon-to-be husband,"

The older woman said, her tone matter-of-fact.

Kabir leaned in, whispering urgently to his mom,

"Mom, shut up. It’s not the right time now!"

Forcing a smile, Isha greeted her.

"Aunty, how are you?"

"Mrs.Mehra, hi how you doing!?"

"Ayesha, my dear I am fine!"

"Oh Kabir, when am I supposed to see my grandchild? Your cousin sister Aditi got married to Rohan, and she’s younger than you,"

Kabir’s mom continued, oblivious to the mounting tension.

"Mom, you’re right. Me and Isha will definitely plan a baby, don’t worry,"

Kabir said, trying to keep the situation under control.

Isha stood there, stunned into silence.

"Good, I need to see my grandchildren. And Isha, it’s 'Mummy,' not 'Aunty.' Now, I have some work, so I’ll take my leave,"

Kabir’s mom said cheerfully before departing.

As soon as she left, Isha’s composure cracked.

"You motherf**ker! We know we’re in a fake relationship. Why did you say that?"

Kabir smirked, enjoying the chaos he had caused.

"What? I didn’t say anything wrong. And I’m leaving too because I smell like drinks, thanks to you."

"Urgh, I will kill him,"

Isha fumed as Kabir walked away, still smiling.

"And we might get married by next month, sweetheart,"

he shouted back, his voice filled with teasing.

"You f**king bast**d,"

Isha retorted, her voice carrying across the hall.

Ayesha and Jiya hurried after her friend.

"Isha, wait for us!"

Ayesha,Jiya and Isha found themselves in a whirlwind of emotions after Kabir's mother unexpectedly declared their fake relationship would lead to marriage. They retreated to a quieter corner of the wedding venue, trying to process what had just happened.

"Isha, what are we going to do?" Ayesha asked, her voice tinged with concern.

"I don't know, Ayesha," Isha replied, her mind racing. "I never expected this to get so complicated. His mother is convinced we're getting married now."

"But we can't just go along with it, can we? It's insane!" Jiya exclaimed.

Isha nodded, her thoughts jumbled. "I can't believe Kabir didn't clarify things. He just went along with what his mother said."

"Typical Kabir," Ayesha muttered, rolling her eyes.

"Always avoiding confrontation." Jiya said

They fell silent for a moment, watching the festivities around them. Couples danced, laughter echoed through the hall, but for Isha,Jiya and Ayesha, the air was heavy with uncertainty.

"What about your brother?" Ayesha asked suddenly. "Could he help us? Maybe talk to Kabir or his mother?"

Isha shook her head. "I don't want to involve my brother in this mess. He's dealing with enough already."

Jiya sighed, frustration evident on her face. "Well, we can't just ignore it either. We need a plan."

"I know," Isha said softly. "But for now, let's just try to enjoy the wedding. We'll figure something out later."

Ayesha and Jiya nodded reluctantly. "Fine, but we're definitely talking about this tomorrow. I won't let you marry Kabir Mehra just because of some misunderstanding."

Isha managed a weak smile. "Thanks, Ayesha and Jiya. I appreciate you being here."

"Always, girl," Ayesha replied, squeezing Isha's hand reassuringly.

As they returned to the celebration, Isha couldn't shake the feeling that her life had taken an unexpected turn. She glanced across the room and caught Kabir's eye. He offered a tentative smile, but Isha looked away, unsure of what the future held for them.

As the night wore on, the festive atmosphere of Zara's wedding continued unabated.