Uma stood trembling in the center of the vast marble chamber, her henna-decorated hands clasped tightly in front of her as if they could somehow shield her from what was to come. The heavy red and gold bridal lehenga felt like an anchor dragging her down, its intricate embroidery and multiple layers pressing against her delicate skin. The room itself was a vision of opulence designed for this very night. Silk drapes in deep crimson hung gracefully from the tall four-poster bed that dominated the space, scented candles flickered softly on every polished surface casting a warm golden glow that seemed to highlight every curve and shadow, and fragrant rose petals were scattered generously across the marble floor and the expansive silk sheets. Yet none of this beauty could ease the deep terror twisting inside her stomach like a living thing.