I Found You

3.

"Are you ready Gudiya? They're asking for you." Advait asked, entering Adhira's room.

Devika was there, helping her get dressed and trying to ease her as she grew increasingly nervous and anxious with each passing minute.

Being an introvert, Adhira never liked being the center of attraction. She was never good at talking, meeting new people, or making new friends.

"Yes Bhai, you take her out with you. I need to check on the food." Devika replied, pinning the dupatta sideways on Adhira's right shoulder.

Giving her a nod, Advait moved towards his baby sister, patting her head as if to ask her relax. "Everything is gonna be alright." He said.

Adhira offered him a small smile and inhaled deeply, recalling her father's words about the guy, that gave her some reassurance.

He was described as a man of responsibilities, someone with strong family values and respect for elders. Most importantly, he didn't have any issues with her studying or working after marriage.

Her father seemed to be totally impressed with the guy.

"His family is so cool. They're definitely gonna like you, so chill." Advait said, wrapping an arm around her shoulder and pulling her into a side hug.

But with each step Adhira took, her anxiety grew stronger. As she descended from her room to the hall, her nerves threatened to get the best of her.

She raised her eyes from the floor as the faint murmur of chatter gradually shifted into clear, audible conversation.

Entering the hall, she noticed that Yuvaan had effortlessly captivated his entire family with his storytelling about the movie he recently watched, Jurassic World.

Joining her hands in Namaste with a soft smile on her face, Adhira took careful, measured steps toward the woman in her late forties, seated with her Taiji.

Saanvika rose from her seat as she noticed Adhira approaching. She welcomed her with open arms, patting her head before she could bend to touch her feet to seek blessings.

"Khush raho." She said warmly. "Let me introduce you to everyone." She placed a comforting hand on Adhira's back.

[Stay happy]

"She is Mukti, my daughter." She began. Adhira nodded and smiled at the girl, who seemed close to her own age.

"And these are Kabir and Veer," She said, gesturing toward the two boys, who nodded politely in greeting.

"And this is my husband," She continued, pointing toward Jaideep, seated next to Adhira's father.

Next, she gestured toward another man occupying the chair adjacent to the sofa, where her Tauji, Anand was seated.

Adhira's gaze shifted and settled on Vikram, who was dressed in grey trousers and a black shirt. Her chestnut brown eyes met his black ones— eyes which had been quietly watching her since the moment she entered.

His broad shoulders and well defined biceps stood out beneath the fabric of his shirt, complementing his lean, athletic frame. There was no denying that his appearance was striking.

Vikram's eyes took in the woman beside his Choti Maa. She wore a lemon yellow organza suit, her long brown tresses falling freely down her back, pinned at the front.

It was her simplicity that drew him in the most.

Adhira nodded her head almost shyly, averting her gaze from him. Saanvika made her sit beside her, beginning with some questions. "So, what are your hobbies?"