Chapter 29
A week after Dimitri’s heartfelt proposal, the estate’s grand hall was transformed into an exquisite setting for their nikkah ceremony, the Islamic marriage contract that would unite them as husband and wife. The room was a vision of elegance, with gold and white drapery cascading from the high ceilings, intricate floral arrangements of roses and jasmine adorning every corner, and crystal chandeliers casting a warm, inviting glow.
The guests—close family and friends—were dressed in vibrant traditional attire, the women in colorful saris and lehengas, and the men in sherwanis and tailored suits. The air buzzed with excitement, a soft hum of conversation punctuated by bursts of laughter.
In a private room, Celestina prepared for her big moment. Her ivory lehenga was a masterpiece, its gold embroidery shimmering under the soft light. The fitted bodice was adorned with delicate pearls, and the flowing skirt was as light as air. Her dupatta, sheer and edged with intricate gold lace, was draped gracefully over her head, giving her an ethereal glow.
Her hair was styled in an elegant bun, adorned with fresh jasmine flowers that added a touch of romance to her look. Jewelry completed the ensemble—a statement necklace of uncut diamonds and emeralds rested on her collarbone, while matching earrings and bangles jingled softly with her every movement.
“You look like a queen,” said one of the attendants, beaming at her.
Celestina smiled, nerves and excitement swirling in her chest. “A queen marrying her king,” she said softly, thinking of Dimitri.
As the music swelled, signaling her entrance, she took a deep breath and stepped into the hall.
Dimitri stood at the front of the hall, waiting for Celestina. He looked every bit the regal groom in his tailored white sherwani, the intricate gold embroidery catching the light. His turban was adorned with a single emerald pin, a subtle nod to his heritage.
When he saw her entering, his breath caught. She was radiant, her grace and beauty leaving him momentarily speechless.
As Celestina approached, the guests rose in unison, their admiration palpable. Dimitri met her halfway, offering his hand.
“You’re breathtaking,” he whispered, his voice low enough for only her to hear.
“And you’re not so bad yourself,” she replied with a teasing smile, though her eyes shimmered with emotion.
Together, they walked to the front, where the imam awaited them.
The nikkah began with the recitation of verses from the Quran, the imam’s voice calm and melodic as he invoked blessings for the couple. The guests listened in respectful silence, their hands folded in prayer.
The imam explained the significance of the nikkah: a sacred contract in Islam that binds two individuals in mutual respect, love, and partnership. It was a moment of deep meaning, one that Celestina felt resonate in her heart.
Dimitri was asked first if he accepted the nikkah.
“I do,” he said, his voice steady and filled with sincerity.
Celestina’s turn followed. She met Dimitri’s gaze, her voice unwavering. “I do.”
Their vows were exchanged next, simple yet profound words that spoke of commitment and devotion.
“With this union,” Dimitri said, his tone reverent, “I promise to honor you, cherish you, and stand by you, always.”
Celestina’s heart swelled as she repeated her own vows, her voice filled with quiet conviction. “I promise to honor you, cherish you, and stand by you, always.”
When the vows were completed, the imam offered a prayer, blessing their marriage with love, prosperity, and happiness.
As soon as the nikkah was declared complete, the hall erupted into applause and cheers. Family members rushed forward to embrace the couple, offering heartfelt congratulations and blessings.
The celebrations began in earnest, with tables laden with an elaborate feast. Guests indulged in dishes ranging from biryanis and kebabs to decadent desserts like gulab jamun and baklava.
Celestina and Dimitri took their seats at the head table, where they were showered with gifts and playful banter.
“You’re glowing, Celestina,” one of Dimitri’s cousins teased. “What’s the secret?”
“She married the most charming man alive,” Dimitri said with a wink, earning laughter from the table.
“And humble,” Celestina quipped, rolling her eyes but smiling.
The night ended with music and dancing, the joyous atmosphere carrying on late into the evening.
That night, Dimitri and Celestina returned to their private villa, the echoes of the celebration still fresh in their minds.
On the terrace, under a sky dotted with stars, Dimitri wrapped his arms around her from behind. The soft breeze carried the scent of jasmine from the gardens below.
“You’re my wife now,” he murmured, his voice filled with wonder.
“And you’re my husband,” she replied, leaning back against him.
He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. “I promised to treat you like a queen, and I’ll spend the rest of my life keeping that promise.”
