However, as soon as her aunt stepped in, her gaze swept across the spacious house. The house had been recently modified to accommodate Bani's bakery business, making it more suitable for an online setup.
"Oh, my! This house is so big now!" her aunt exclaimed, her voice tinged with surprise. "Your mother really went all out, didn't she? You must be making good money if you can afford such changes."
Bani's mother, who was arranging a tray of sweets for the guests, turned to face her sister-in-law with a calm smile. "The old house wasn't practical for a business like this. We had to make these changes to support Bani's dreams."
Her aunt pursed her lips but didn't say much after that. Instead, she turned her attention to the small setup where some of Bani's baked delicacies were displayed for the guests. She picked up a cupcake, inspecting it as if she were a professional food critic.
"Hmm, let's see how these taste," she said before taking a small bite.
Bani watched carefully, waiting for the verdict. To her surprise, her aunt's expression softened ever so slightly.
"It's good," she admitted begrudgingly. "Did you make this yourself?"
Bani nodded.
"Well… not bad," her uncle said, helping himself to a piece of cake.
It wasn't exactly high praise, but for them, it was as close to a compliment as she could get.
As the clock ticked closer to the auspicious time, more guests arrived, and the atmosphere grew livelier. The chatter, the scent of freshly baked goods, and the sense of something new unfolding made the air feel electric.
The promoter and his crew wasted no time, setting up cameras and adjusting the lights to capture every perfect moment. Today was not just another day—it was the beginning of a dream turned reality.
Outside the shop, a large LED TV had been placed for today's event. Normally, it wasn't there, but for this special occasion, they had taken their own TV outside, ensuring that every passerby could witness the magic unfolding inside Bani's Bakery. A pre-recorded promotional video played on the screen, showing golden-brown croissants being pulled from the oven, the silky swirls of frosting atop cupcakes, and most importantly, Bani herself—her hands deftly working, her passion evident in every motion.
Inside, the air was filled with the comforting scent of vanilla and freshly baked bread. The counters gleamed, trays of pastries and cakes stood proudly on display, waiting for their first eager customers.
As guests started arriving, the excitement in the room grew. Friends, family, and curious passersby gathered, drawn by the delicious aromas and the warm, welcoming ambiance. Some whispered among themselves, watching as the final touches were made, while others took their phones out, ready to capture the moment.
Finally, the time had come.
Bani stepped forward, her apron dusted with flour, her hands slightly trembling—not with fear, but with the overwhelming rush of emotions. Aman stood beside her, his phone raised, prepared to livestream the moment to an even wider audience.
She took a deep breath.
With all my heart, I welcome you to my "Ethereal Bakes bites," she announced, her voice steady yet brimming with emotion. "From today onwards, we are officially open! Thank you to everyone who has supported me. I promise to bring you the freshest, most delicious baked goods made with love."
A moment of silence followed—just a brief second where her words hung in the air—before the room erupted into applause.