HEARTS ARRANGED, LOVE DISCOVERED

CHAPTER 50: ENGAGEMENT

The engagement day had finally arrived, and the Goenka mansion was adorned with lights and flowers, emanating an aura of festivity. Aarohi, dressed in an elegant lavender saree, stood by Neel's side, the smile on her face reflecting her excitement and nervousness.

As the rituals began, family and friends gathered around to witness the union of Aarohi and Neel. The engagement rings, symbols of their commitment, were placed on a silver tray, waiting to be exchanged. The room was filled with laughter and cheerful chatter.

As the moment approached for Aarohi and Neel to exchange rings, the lights unexpectedly went off, casting the room into darkness. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd, but Aarohi remained surprisingly composed.

Amidst the darkness, a figure silently moved closer to Aarohi. She couldn't see him, but she could sense his presence. It was Abhi. His heart raced as he stood inches away from the woman he loved.

Abhi gently took Aarohi's hand and slid a ring onto her finger. She knew it was him, her heart recognizing his touch, even in the pitch-black room. The feeling was electrifying, and she had goosebumps all over her skin.

With a soft, barely audible voice, Abhi whispered, "We are meant to be, Aaru. Nothing can keep us apart." Aarohi shivered, her emotions a whirlwind of confusion and longing.

Before she could react, Abhi pressed a delicate kiss on her ring finger and then on her cheek, his lips warm and familiar. Her heart raced as she felt his lingering presence, even after he had moved away.

Just as suddenly as the lights had gone off, they flickered back to life, revealing that it was Neel standing beside her, not Abhi. The room erupted in applause, assuming it was a romantic surprise orchestrated by Neel.

Aarohi blinked, her vision adjusting to the light, and she knew that she had felt Abhi, that his kiss had left an indelible mark on her soul. She exchanged rings with Neel, the weight of her decision pressing on her more than ever.

The engagement ceremony continued with guests showering their blessings and good wishes upon the couple. As the night wore on, Neel discreetly winked at Abhi from a corner, signaling that their plan had succeeded.

Eventually, the guests departed, and Neel's family bid their farewells. Aarohi, feeling emotionally drained, decided to retire to her room. The engagement had been a rollercoaster of emotions, and she needed a moment alone to gather her thoughts.

In the quiet of her room, Aarohi gazed at her engagement ring under the soft moonlight streaming through her window. The ring sparkled, but her heart was filled with memories of Abhi's touch and his whispered words. She blushed, unable to deny the lingering feelings she had for him.

Meanwhile, Abhi was in his own world, grinning from ear to ear. He had made his presence felt, even in the shadows, and he was determined to fight for their love, regardless of the obstacles in their path.