With only four precious days until the wedding, Daniel sat in the sunlit hall, sipping tea alongside Mary's husband, James. Their conversation meandered like the morning mist as they set out for a invigorating walk. Suddenly, Daniel halted, his eyes captivated by an exquisite elevated building nestled amid lush gardens alive with playful swings and vibrant blooms. "Brother, why stop here? What enchants you so?" James inquired, curiosity lighting his face.
Daniel's voice brimmed with wonder. "This house is a dream—poised near the bustling main road, cradled in verdant gardens, with the elegant structure at its heart. Parking sheds for three cars, servant quarters, everything! I yearn for a home like this in India." James grinned. "Of course, we can claim it. The owners view visitors in an hour—let's return then, or approach them this afternoon." Their walk complete, they hurried back and shared the discovery with Mary, whose face glowed with delight. "What joy! Brother, seize it. We'll visit at 4 PM."
That evening, they approached the owners. "Are you selling?" Mary asked eagerly. The lady nodded warmly. "Yes, we've posted a board—someone must've whisked it away. We're eager, but wait 24 hours; my father arrives from the USA tomorrow. We're trading this gem for a grand estate on the outskirts." True to her word, by next day, the house was registered in Daniel's name—a triumphant new chapter.
Daniel summoned Mary's prospective son-in-law, Max, to behold the treasure. "This is yours," he declared with paternal pride, "a gift for you and Rose. Stay here in India, alongside your grandparents' home, whenever you wish. God bless your union." Max, ever the poised entrepreneur, demurred humbly. "Father, no gifts for me—God granted me talent and business acumen. From age sixteen, I've nurtured Grandfather's legacy for a decade, expanding it relentlessly at 26. I'll forge ahead." His words, laced with quiet resolve, earned applause from Daniel, James, and Mary. "Not just for you, my boy," Mary added tenderly, "but for Rose and the children God will bless you with. This Bangalore haven suits you perfectly, near our hearts."
Overjoyed, they whisked Max home to share the news with his grandparents, whose faces radiated bliss. The next day, Daniel and Mary crisscrossed the city in their cars, distributing over 200 ornate invitation cards to relatives and friends from dawn till dusk, bolstered by heartfelt calls. From the USA, calls poured in: "We land tomorrow!" or "Day after!"—at least 25 in all, swelling the excitement.
Anticipating nearly 100 families from abroad, Daniel urged Mary and James to secure functional lodges. "Our new Bangalore house fits them all," James proposed eagerly. "On 2,000 square yards with multiple floors, it welcomes over 100 souls." Servants sprang into action, scrubbing every corner spotless for the imminent influx. The venue was booked for 20 days, maids poised to pamper guests through the wedding and beyond—USA visitors lingering 10-15 days post-ceremony. Chefs and sweetmakers were enlisted for delectable feasts, Max orchestrating on-site delights.
They visited the priest at Civil Lines Church, bearing gourmet sweets, a flowing gown, and a tailored coat for the occasion. "Join us with your entire family—parents, siblings," they implored, invitations extended to neighbors and friends alike. Then, urgent calls: "We're at the airport, arriving in Delhi within the hour!" Daniel mobilized everyone—maids, servants—to receive them with grace, escorting to tidy bedrooms and fulfilling every whim, ensuring joy until their departure.
Four to eight cars rolled up in waves, each ferrying 10-12 beaming guests. One by one, they descended before Mary's home, greeted by Daniel, Mary, and James with open arms and warm embraces. As dusk fell, relatives and friends freshened up in the sparkling new Bangalore house, servants tending every need with flawless care. Amid the whirlwind, instructions flowed from Mary, Max, and Daniel: politeness, kindness, precision. With three days left, every neighbor, relative, and visitor would be cherished. The fourth day dawned—the wedding, a crescendo of love and celebration.