The airplane touched down with a soft thud.

Zoya stared out the window, her hand resting in Akif’s — fingers laced, wedding ring glinting under the sunlight.

"Mumbai," she whispered.

Akif smiled, kissing the back of her hand.

“No more goodbyes. From now on, this city will see you every single morning — in my arms.”

Her cheeks flushed, and her heart, oh her heart — it raced like she was arriving for the first time again.

But this time, not scared, not lost.

This time, as Mrs. Zoya Malik.

---

The Grand Welcome

The car pulled up outside Akif’s house. Zoya had visited once before — but not like this. Not with so many flower garlands on the gate. Not with his whole family waiting, smiling, hands full of gifts, aarti thali, and tears of joy.

Her mother-in-law pulled her into a warm hug, whispering softly,

“My daughter has come home.”

That one word — daughter — made her eyes tear up. So many years she had waited for this. To be wanted. To be loved. To be kept.

Akif’s father hugged her too, “I hope you’re ready. You’ve stolen our son’s peace; now you’ve stolen our hearts too.”

Even his naughty cousins screamed from behind,

“Bhabhi is here! Hide all the secrets!”

“Honeymoon ke stories sunani padegi!”

Zoya laughed through tears, eyes flicking toward Akif who just stood proudly, smirking like she was his biggest achievement.

Because she was.

---

The New Life Begins...

The evening passed with rituals, giggles, dinner, and way too many selfies.

Zoya finally entered their room — their room. Soft fairy lights. Framed pictures. Her books already placed beside his. A little "Mrs. Malik" mug on the side table.

She touched it all slowly, letting the feeling sink in.

Akif came behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

“Do you like it?”

She turned around, cupped his face.

“I love you.”

He leaned in, resting his forehead against hers.

“I’m never letting you go again.”

---

And that night, they didn’t need fireworks.

Just silence. Heartbeats. A soft “I love you” whispered over skin. And a home finally filled with peace.

---