Chapter 31- "Snake in heaven..."

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"As I stand on the landing of the stairs and look down; the sight is enough to reel my head. The hall is full of pomp and unknown people. All are staring at me as I am the eighth wonder of the world. My palms are sweating and my guts are churning with jim-jams. Right now, I am looking like a total nincompoop in this grandeur attire. I claw my gown and try to find out my saviour amidst this swarm of sophisticated people. Just then I locate him, coming gracefully towards the staircase. His eyes are sparkling with plaudit and love. I watch out for my man with full attention. He is looking not less than any prince. My handsome Brute. I chuckle in my mind. I lift my gown a bit and start coming downstairs while he takes a few steps to reach me. With a content smile, he forwards his left hand to me and I rest mine on it. Manik and I come downstairs with humble yet proud steps. Right now, I am really feeling like a queen."

"Meet my wife, Mrs Nandita Manik Malhotra."

Manik introduces Nandini to the guests as they get circled by all the curious crowd. Nandini looks around with a shy expression. A suppressed buzz takes place among the people. Some guys come forward and stretch their hands to get a handshake with Nandini. Some ladies hug her while softly pecking her cheeks as a gesture of cordial first meeting. Some desperate and over-enthusiastic guys try to kiss the back of her palm; however, they immediately get impeded by Manik. He knows very well where to draw the line.

"I must say, Manik, after a long wait, you have chosen a rare pearl for yourself. She is as pretty as an Angel."

An elderly man praises with an affectionate tone. Nandini shyly stares down. Manik shackles her with her shoulder and mouths,

"Yes, she is my Angel."

The girl Alisha comes forward and says in a sarcastic tone.

"But how did you get this Angel? Or should I say, she straight came from heaven? Where are you from Nandita? Must be from any business family who are very regressive about their female members. Because I haven't seen you at any party or business magazine. Don't say that Manik got married to an unknown middle-class girl. Really, Manik?"

Her words strain Nandini's nerves at once. She gulps her saliva and looks at Manik. He smiles at her and blinks to comfort her stress.

"She is from this mother earth and that is enough for her identity. Alisha, have I ever asked you where did you live before coming to this film industry? Whether it was any hostel, home or any slum? (His tone is razor sharp) Because I never felt it is needed. Your work is your identity, not your background. So, it will be better not to be so inquisitive about our personal matters. Otherwise, you know I have all the information about everyone's matter."

Manik's chilled voice makes all the blood drain from Alisha's face. She immediately plasters a fake smile on her face and replies,

"Of course, she is your wife. What other identity does she need? Congratulations, Nandita. Wish you both a happy married life."

Nandini nods her head in gratitude. One of the guests says enthusiastically,

"Okay, enough of introduction. Now let's enjoy the party. Nandita, I have heard that you have a beautiful voice. Please sing something for us. It will be a great honour to listen to you."

Nandini frowns at Manik who is grinning mischievously. Suddenly an idea peeps into her mind. She smiles at the guest and mouths with full conviction,

"I don't know what Manik has told you about my singing but it is just a hobby. But I can assure you about Manik's voice. I know, most of you don't know that he can play the guitar and sing like an artist."

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