The phone vibrated uselessly in my hand. Still no answer. I glanced out the window, the emerald lawn a vibrant testament to the impending festivities. Yellow and green silks billowed in the gentle breeze, the scent of marigolds thick in the air. My haldi and mehndi. The pre-wedding rituals are meant to cleanse and bless. All I felt was a rising tide of anxiety.

"What is he doing? Why isn't he taking my call?" I muttered, more to myself than anyone else.