HUKUMAT : WAR FOR THRONES

Fires of uncertainty

Nainital

2 weeks later

The evening of the Freshers' Party was in full swing, with the hall elegantly decorated, filled with vibrant lights, and echoing with laughter. Everything seemed to be going smoothly. Manali, after ensuring the final touches were in place, left to get ready at her apartment.

When she returned, the party had already started, and her arrival turned heads instantly. Dressed in a stunning peach-colored dress that flowed gracefully around her, Manali looked breathtaking. The soft hue of her attire perfectly complemented her glowing skin, making her the center of attention as she entered the hall. Conversations paused momentarily, and all eyes were frozen on her, admiring her beauty.

As she walked further in, she suddenly collided with someone. Her heart skipped a beat as she looked up to see Ishaan standing in front of her again. Irritation flickered across her face.

"Dikhai nahi deta?" she snapped, glaring at him.

Ishaan, caught off guard and clearly still flustered from their earlier encounters, could barely respond. Before he could muster a word, Manali huffed in frustration, "Tum yahan bhi... Ahhh," and stormed off into the hall. Poor Ishaan was left standing there, frozen and unsure of how to respond.

The function soon began, and the principal made a grand announcement. "Tonight, we are honored to have Mr. Ishaan Shekhawat as our esteemed chief guest, thanks to the special request by Shivay and Akshat." The crowd applauded enthusiastically, though Manali remained distant, her mind still replaying her frustrating interactions with Ishaan.

As the evening unfolded, games and performances began. Laughter and cheer filled the hall as students participated in fun activities, from musical chairs to a lively dance-off. Performances by various student groups entertained the crowd, with some showing off their singing talents, while others danced with full energy and passion. As the night progressed, the most anticipated moment arrived-the announcement of Mr. and Miss Fresher.

The principal stepped up to the stage with a smile. "It's now time to crown this year's Mr. and Miss Fresher," she announced, holding the names in her hand. "Our Mr. Fresher for this year is Mayank!"

Mayank stood up, grinning smugly as he walked to the stage, bowing slightly as he was crowned.

"And for Miss Fresher, we have the lovely... Sonali!"

The crowd roared with excitement, and Sonali beamed as she took the stage beside Mayank. After the applause died down, a wave of voices rose from the audience. "Dance! Dance!" they chanted, demanding a performance from the newly crowned winners.

But the students weren't just asking for Mayank and Sonali. No, they wanted more.

"Manali and Akshat! We want last year's Mr. and Miss Fresher!" someone shouted, and soon, the entire hall echoed with the same demand.

Manali hesitated, her heart racing. She hadn't prepared for this. Akshat smiled at her, offering his hand. But just as she was about to take it, Mayank intercepted her, insisting on dancing with her. The way he touched her hand made her skin crawl.

Mayank's grip on her tightened, and she reluctantly agreed, feeling trapped in the situation. The music began to play, but Manali was barely aware of it. All she could focus on was the rising discomfort as Mayank's hands roamed too freely. His whispers, once charming, now felt suffocating, and she began to feel trapped in his arms, her anxiety building.

As the dance continued, she could no longer ignore the unwelcome touches. Panic set in. Her breaths quickened, and her mind screamed for her to get away from him, but she was forced to endure it in front of everyone. The memories of their date, of how he had tried to take advantage of her, rushed back, only amplifying her fear and loathing.