The accidental vows

chapter 2 the twist of fate

Janvi’s POV

I was lost in my thoughts when suddenly I heard someone shouting. The joyful atmosphere turned tense in an instant. Raj looked furious, like someone had deeply hurt him. His parents—Rahul Uncle and Kajal Aunty—were visibly worried, and my parents rushed to calm them down.

Then, out of nowhere, Uncle started breathing heavily. He was sweating and looked pale before collapsing on the floor.

Everyone panicked.

Raj and his brother Abhi rushed to help, while my father and Raj carried Uncle to one of the rooms. Raj immediately called their family doctor to the venue. Aunty was crying uncontrollably, and Raj looked devastated and guilty.

I stood frozen, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Just a few minutes ago, everyone was laughing and dancing. Raj had looked so happy and excited for his wedding. How did everything change so suddenly?

The doctor arrived quickly and checked Uncle. After a thorough examination, he said, “He’s had another heart attack. It’s serious, especially since he already had one before. He needs complete rest and emotional stability.”

I turned to my mom and asked, “What just happened? He was fine a moment ago…”

Before she could answer, my dad came from the room and said, “Janvi, come with me. Uncle wants to talk to you.”

I nodded and followed him inside.

Uncle was lying on the bed, looking weak but stable. Raj and Abhi stood beside him, their faces filled with worry. When Uncle saw me, he smiled faintly and motioned for me to come closer.

“Sit here, beta,” he said softly.

I sat beside him, and he gently held both my hands in his. “Raj, Abhi… can you give us a moment?” he asked.

After they left the room, Uncle looked at me with tired but sincere eyes.

“Beta, I don’t know how to say this,” he began, “but can I ask you something?”

“Of course, Uncle,” I replied, concerned. “You can ask me anything. But please rest first, you look very weak.”

“I’ll rest later,” he said firmly. “But please… forgive me for asking this. I need you to do something for me… for me and Kajal.”

“Anything for you and Aunty,” I said, holding his hand. “You’re like my second parents.”

He looked at me with deep emotion and said, “Be my daughter.”

I smiled faintly. “Uncle, I already am like your daughter.”

He shook his head. “I want you to become my daughter. I want you to marry my son, Raj… today.”

I was shocked.

I couldn’t believe what I had just heard. I went blank for a moment. Why would Uncle want me to marry Raj? Did he somehow find out about my feelings for him?

Before I could say anything, my father entered the room.

“Say something, beta,” he urged gently.

Reality hit me hard. This wasn’t a dream. Uncle was serious. He wanted me to marry Raj.

“But… Raj was going to marry Priya,” I said, confused. “Why do you want me to marry him?”

Uncle sighed and handed me a letter. “Read this.”

The letter was from Priya.

> Raj,

I really love you, but today, I got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. My company has offered me a promotion and asked me to join immediately in London. You know how much I’ve always dreamed of working there.

Please understand—I’m leaving today. But don’t worry. Once I’m back, we’ll get married. Until then, wait for me. Take care.

Love you always,

Priya

I couldn’t believe it. She just… left?

Uncle continued, “Now you see… for Priya, her career matters more than Raj’s love and emotions. She expects him to wait… but what about Raj? What about his feelings? His respect?”

He paused before continuing, “That’s why I’m asking you, Janvi. Will you marry him? Save us from this shame. We’ve invited so many important guests and even media. If this wedding is called off now… our reputation will be ruined.”

Then both Uncle and my father asked gently, “Do you love someone? Is there anyone else in your life?”

I shook my head. “No, Dad. There’s no one. I’ve only ever had feelings for Raj.”

“But… what about Raj? Does he agree to this?”

Uncle gave a faint smile. “Don’t worry, beta. He has agreed.”

I sat there quietly for a few moments, heart pounding. Then I looked up at both of them.

“If Raj and my parents have no objection, then… I’m ready.”

Uncle’s eyes filled with tears. Aunty entered the room just then and hugged me tightly.

“Thank you, beta,” they both said together. “You are truly the sweetest and the best girl.”