HEARTS ARRANGED, LOVE DISCOVERED

CHAPTER 54: THE SHOWDOWN

As the veil was lifted from Aarohi's face, revealing her radiant beauty, everyone in the room marveled at her. Her graceful presence took their breath away, and they couldn't help but smile, enchanted by her ethereal beauty.

But when Neel's sehra was raised to reveal his face, shock rippled through the room. Instead of Neel's smiling visage, it was Abhimanyu, standing there, that greeted them all. Aarohi, in particular, was struck by mortification.

Aarohi: (sternly) Abhimanyu, what is this? Where is Neel? Why are you here?

Her words hung heavily in the air, and everyone present, from the Goenkas to the Birlas to Neel's parents, was stunned into silence.

Bade Papa, Badi Mama, Manjari, Harsh, and Mimi, all spoke in unison: "Abhimanyu..."

But before anyone could make sense of the situation, Neel descended from the stairs, a triumphant smile on his face. He stepped forward, ready to face the music.

Neel: (confidently) I know you all have a lot of questions, but I assure you we will answer them.

Aarohi, however, was not ready to let this slide. Her shock gave way to anger, and her voice trembled with rage.

Aarohi: (furious) Answer them? Are you kidding me? Is this some sort of twisted joke to you? Does my consent even matter to you? I have been married off to someone like I'm a piece of livestock! HOW COULD YOU? You cheater, rascal...

Aarohi's anger overwhelmed her, and she fainted. Abhimanyu acted quickly, catching her in his arms. He carried her to the bedroom, gently placing her on the bed.

Abhimanyu: (softly) Akshu, please make her comfortable and stay with her.

With that, he turned to face the bewildered crowd.

Abhimanyu: (determined) I will answer all your questions, but right now, my wife needs me.His voice was resolute, and he patted Aarohi's head gently, determined to prove his love and support for her.