"Tired?" I asked as I finally entered our room—after enduring a ridiculous amount of teasing and my patience being tested all evening by my cousins. Thankfully, they let me go once I gave in and handed over whatever they wanted. Weddings are beautiful, yes, but they come with a price—emotionally, physically, and definitely financially.

"Yes!" Akansha huffed, exhaling sharply as she began removing her jewellery and placing it on the dressing table. I had already taken off my pagdi, shawl, and all the other traditional accessories. Now, I was just in my sherwani and pants, finally able to breathe a little.