Cold Bones

FOUR : Dances and Danger

(Songs for the chapter- Me and the Devil by Soap & skin, Madness by Ruelle and Lost Forever *speed up version* by Sergio Valentino)
...

As they ascended to the eleventh floor,the weight of what she had proposed clawed in on her.In the urgency of the moment, lacking an alternative, she put forth the contract. Yet, what if securing the internship proves elusive? Law isn't cakewalk, and with her domestic turmoil, concentration would become even more challenging. The prospect of Murtasim intentionally obstructing her path looms—can she truly place her trust in him?Her hand threatened to slide away from his grasp, palms sweaty,as she approached the gateway of her engagement venue,a place about to seal her doomed fate.

The entrance was nothing less than a grand spectacle of magnificence. Elaborate floral arrangements were spread across the archways, their vibrant colors creating a breathtaking display. The massive chandelier hung from above, casting a warm, luxurious glow on the intricate gold and silver accents adorning the entrance.Every detail, from the finely designed curtains to the plush carpet underfoot, exuded extravagance, setting the tone for a celebration of unparalleled splendor.The elaborate setting made her feel small,an irrelevant object used to attain bigger goals.

With their fingers intertwined,the couple had immediately garnered attention from the spectators,ogling at them with adoration while the enormous crowd surged her anxiety.She had left behind this life,this constant media gaze and scrutiny, she thought she was free of it,and yet again she found herself amidst the spotlight which was merely an onset of infinite chaos.Murtasim nodded facing her,a signal to proceed.Stepping foot inside,what she first noticed was her father's beaming face,his eyes stuck on the clasped hands of the couple.It was just as he wanted.The question did not cease to nudge her—what is it about this relationship that could be so essential for the company?A piece was missing, she couldn't rest until it's located.

She found herself at the pinnacle of discomfort,impatient to let go of his hand.She quickened her pace,prompting Murtasim to speedup. The lush velvety couch sprawled on the elevated platform, embellished with sophisticated blooms and gilded details, mirrored a throne befitting only the scion of a company as esteemed as theirs and his betrothed. He trodded upon the stage first, offering his assistance for Meerab's ascent, deftly managing the weight of her heavy saree. Their gaze locked briefly before he hoisted her up with a slight jerk, her mermaid silhouette prompting a momentary imbalance that led her to collide with his chest.She swiftly regained her composure taking a step back. "Thanks" she muttered forcefully, "Pleasure" came the tight lipped response.From the corner of her eyes, she observed him flexing his hand, as though the act of touching her had imparted a sense of contamination, akin to a disease.She couldn't stop herself from rolling her eyes.

Enveloping Murtasim in his embrace, Anwar praised his polished look.Initially tense, Murtasim gradually eased his muscles, mentally preparing for the charade he would need to maintain throughout the evening. He returned the hug with reluctance.It is only when her father remarked on his appearance that Meerab truly took a notice of him that evening. Dressed in an Armani suit tailored to perfection, he carried himself with an effortless grace that commanded attention. The deep navy fabric of his suit complemented the subtle sheen of his silk tie, his impeccably polished shoes complimenting the confidence in his stride.The waist cost especially accentuated every contour of his toned physique.With a well-groomed beard framing a strong jawline,his piercing brown eyes conveyed both intelligence and charisma.Well, Meerab supposed he looked alright,indifference too high to esteem him for more.

Interrupting her review,drifting gracefully in an exquisitely expensive saree,her mother-in-law approached the stage with Murshad.Huge grin on their faces,not quite reaching their eyes.Meerab wondered if it is truly the case or she had merely read in between lines.Probably the latter,for she called out to her husband enthusiastically,hastening him to come up to the stage, "Dear would you mind joining us now?I believe it's time we begin the ceremony."
"Oh I'll be there in a second, love",mouthed the old man to his wife. Meanwhile,Murshad playfully shook the shoulder of his obnoxious older brother, chiming, "Can't believe you are getting engaged bhai!", displaying genuine excitement in his manner. Murtasim however, did not seem too pleased with the gesture, casting a plain glare of irritation before swiftly concealing it for the public's sake.