It was almost midnight. The Mehendi and Dhokli ceremonies had just come to an end, leaving behind echoes of laughter, music, and the lingering scent of henna in the air. My house—no, my home—was dressed like a bride itself, adorned with radiant colours, cascading flowers, and golden fairy lights that flickered like stars.

Relatives and neighbours had come to celebrate, their joy filling the walls of my house. Some had already left, while others had decided to stay, their voices gradually fading as exhaustion took over.