Their bond deepened over time, gradually transforming their contract marriage into something genuine and heartfelt. Rishi became increasingly captivated by Lakshmi's strength, resilience, and unwavering kindness. He often found himself admiring the way she handled challenges with grace, whether it was managing household responsibilities or supporting her family or her office work.

One evening, as they were having dinner, Rishi looked at Lakshmi with a newfound appreciation. "Lakshmi, I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone as strong as you," he said sincerely.

Lakshmi looked up, slightly surprised. " I’ve just been doing what needs to be done."

Rishi shook his head. "No, it’s more than that. You handle everything with such grace and kindness. It’s... inspiring."

Lakshmi blushed, feeling a warmth spread through her. "Thank you, Rishiji. That means a lot to me."

As time passed, Lakshmi also discovered a depth and warmth in Rishi that she hadn’t expected. One late night, they found themselves in the kitchen, sharing a quiet conversation over tea.

"You know, Rishiji," Lakshmi began hesitantly, "when we first got married, I didn’t know what to expect from you. But you’ve shown me a side of yourself that I really admire."

Rishi raised an eyebrow, curious. "Oh? And what side is that?"

Lakshmi smiled softly. "You’re generous and thoughtful. You care deeply about your family, and you’ve been incredibly supportive of me. I’m starting to see you as more than just my husband by contract."

Rishi’s expression softened, and he reached across the table to take her hand. "Lakshmi, I’ve realized that I care about you too. More than I ever thought I could."

Their relationship continued to grow, built on these moments of honesty and mutual respect. The initial awkwardness and uncertainty gave way to a deeper connection. They began to share their dreams, their fears, and their hopes for the future.

One evening, as they sat on the balcony watching the sunset, Rishi turned to Lakshmi and said, "Lakshmi, I never expected to find someone like you in my life. I think... I think I’m falling in love with you."

Lakshmi’s heart skipped a beat. She looked into his eyes and saw the sincerity there. "Rishiji, I feel the same way. I’ve fallen in love with you too."

Their confession marked a turning point in their relationship. What had started as a contract marriage had now blossomed into genuine love. They both knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, not out of obligation, but out of a deep and abiding love for each other.
...............

One sunny afternoon, Rishi approached Lakshmi with a twinkle in his eye. "Lakshmi, I have something special planned for us this weekend. Will you join me?" he asked, his tone filled with anticipation.

Curious and intrigued, Lakshmi agreed. "Of course, Rishi. What is it?"

"You’ll see," he replied with a mysterious smile. Then he handed her a beautifully wrapped gift. "Wear this on the weekend."

Curious, Lakshmi opened the gift to find a stunning white gown inside. She looked at him, puzzled. "Aren't we going to Delhi to visit the family this weekend?"

Rishi’s smile widened. "You’ll see," he repeated, his eyes twinkling with anticipation.
......

That Saturday, Rishi took Lakshmi to a beautiful garden, adorned with flowers and fairy lights. Their close friends and family were gathered, their faces beaming with joy.

"Rishi, what’s going on?" Lakshmi asked, her heart pounding with excitement.

Rishi took her hands in his, looking deeply into her eyes. "Lakshmi, what started as a marriage of necessity has blossomed into something I never expected. I’ve fallen in love with you. Today, I want to renew our vows, not out of obligation, but out of love."

Lakshmi’s eyes filled with tears of joy. "Oh, Rishiji, I love you too."

They both wrote the vows and the ceremony began, intimate and heartfelt. Rishi’s grandmother stepped forward, holding the vows they had written.

Rishi went first, his voice steady and full of emotion. "Lakshmi, you have shown me what true strength and kindness are. I promise to stand by you, to support you, and to love you with all my heart, not because I have to, but because I want to. You’ve changed my life in ways I never imagined."

Lakshmi’s voice trembled with emotion as she spoke her vows. "Rishiji, when we first married, I didn’t know what to expect. But you’ve shown me a world of love and respect. I promise to be your partner, your confidant, and your friend. I will stand by you through all of life’s challenges, because you are the man I love."

As they exchanged rings, the gathered guests clapped and cheered, tears of happiness in their eyes.

After the ceremony, they shared a quiet moment together, away from the crowd.

"Thank you, Rishiji," Lakshmi whispered, resting her head on his shoulder. "This means everything to me."

Rishi kissed her forehead gently. "Thank you, Lakshmi, for being the amazing person you are. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you."

As they walked hand in hand through the garden, the fairy lights twinkling around them, they knew their love story was just beginning. The bond they had forged through trials and triumphs was now sealed with a promise of enduring love and partnership.
.....................................................................

A/N

Hi everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I apologize for the late update—work has been quite hectic since I returned from vacation.

Today, I'm sharing the final chapter of our story, "Contract to Love." Thank you for reading and accompanying me on this journey. I truly appreciate your support. Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Also, feel free to suggest any story ideas in comments. If I find the time in the future, I'll definitely consider working on them.

Don't forget to check out my other stories as well.

Signing off for now—take care, everyone.

Bye-bye!