Page 39 of Knot So Romantic

Soon, I clap my hands for attention. “Alright, ladies, let’s practice walking to the music!”

As a classic Bollywood track with a lively beat starts, the women line up. The atmosphere is jovial, with everyone in high spirits.

First, I let them do their own thing, simply walking down the ramp to the music. Kajal Aunty decides to practice her “signature walk,” strutting down the makeshift ramp like a supermodel with exaggerated poses and dramatic turns. The others cheer her on, soon trying out their own moves, leading to laughter and playful competition.

When the music switches to a fast-paced dance number (an impromptu addition), some women dance instead of walking. Kiara and Khushi join in, turning it into a full-on dance party.

Rimli Aunty’s sari comes loose during her walk, but she handles it gracefully, adjusting on the spot and continuing.

My grandmother, in a stunning purple sari, adds a bright feather boa as an accessory. Soon, everyone is embellishing their outfits with tiaras and trails.

Amidst the commotion, I don’t notice Neel arrive.

Our eyes meet as he approaches. “Am I too late to join the fun?” he asks, smiling.

“No, you’re right on time,” I say, trying to contain my laughter as one woman pulls him into practice, insisting he take a turn on the ramp.

The women seem to adore him. One tries to teach Neel some basic moves, and I watch his endearing attempts to mimic her. Slowly loosening up, he starts shuffling, grinning as he does.

As the rehearsal winds down, the room is filled with smiles and excitement. We’ll probably need a couple more practice sessions, but for now, the women go off to change.

Despite dresses, saris, and accessories scattered all over the place, I feel elated. Apart from a few wardrobe malfunctions and the time it took to settle everyone down, everything went smoothly.

Neel approaches me with a sheepish smile. “You’ve got quite the lively group here, Kavita.”

I nod, feeling a warm glow of happiness. “I’m glad you came.”

He shrugs. “I wouldn’t have missed it.”

Kiara and Khushi eye me meaningfully across the room as Neel talks to me. Elena joins us, saying, “The changing room is packed.” She turns to Neel with a teasing smile. “Hey, Neel! I didn’t know you could dance.”

He doesn’t seem to mind her teasing. Instead, he gives her hair a playful tug and exclaims, “Look at you! I can’t believe how absolutely stunning you look in this dress.”

“Her wedding dress is going to look even more stunning,” I say, beaming as Neel admires the fuchsia-pink ensemble she’s wearing.

“Maybe I could get this one for one of the after-parties. It’s gorgeous!” Elena says.

I nod, promising to save it for her after the fashion show. It does look stunning on her, but I’m sure the rose and gold embroidery detail wedding dress we’re making for her is going to take her breath away.

“I can’t wait to see my wedding dress,” Elena says as if reading my thoughts.

“We’ll have it ready soon,” I promise, just as my grandmother walks over.

“This is going to be a beautiful show,” Grandma says, her eyes glistening. She’s followed by each woman beaming and hugging me as they all get ready to leave.

Elena checks her watch and says, “I’ve got to run, folks. Have a few errands to run before I head home.”

The place is mostly empty now. Kiara stretches her arms over her head, sighing. “Whew, that was a lot of fun, but I’m exhausted!”

Khushi helps me organize all the outfits and put them back on the rack. “Same here. Those ladies were amazing, though. So full of energy!”

Neel watches us. He’s already asked if he can help twice. “It really felt like something special. All of you are so good together.”

Kiara and Khushi beam at him.

“We sure are!” Khushi exclaims.

Today has brought back so many memories of times in the past when we’ve teamed up, whether for a game or a competition. I love that my friends are always willing to help. And now, there’s Neel. “I’m glad you’re here to share it with us, Neel.”