Inside Sandy Guest House, the hall was filled with music and laughter. Familiar faces—mostly friends and relatives Ria had invited—chatted over drinks, filling the crowded room with vibrant energy.

Ria hadn't felt much like celebrating when she first walked in, but Mira kept cracking jokes, gradually lifting her spirits.

Shortly before eight o'clock, Dan stepped onto the elevated platform at the front of the hall, holding a microphone. He had been checking his watch repeatedly, eager to begin the moment Ria had set. Unable to wait any longer, he turned on the microphone, instantly drawing everyone's attention.

Ria’s heart hammered against her ribs. She kept glancing nervously at her phone...