𝙁𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙚 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚

Chapter 12 - Wedding Preparations

Akshit's Pov

On the day of the bachelor's party, Aarav ,shruti, tiara and I , we all were set to head to our chosen venue, Since we couldn't host the party due to restrictions from the elders and presence of a lot guests, we planned we would enjoy at Chachu's house. But the plan got cancelled and Aarav somehow still managed to get us into a pub in the last minute.

So now we are sneaking out as most of the elders are at Nitya bhabi's house. Great!! Aarav arrived at my house as planned, and we were about to leave together. However, just as we were making our way downstairs to the car, Dadu halted us.

With a knowing smile, he remarked, "Kaha chale hain? Mujhe bhi leja, chal! (Where are you going? Take me along too!)" I couldn't help but be amused by Dadu's enthusiasm.

"Wow, Dadu, you want to join us? " I replied, genuinely surprised. Dadu chuckled and quipped, "Of course! Who says I'm too old for a good time?" Aarav joined in, adding, "Absolutely not, Dadu! You're as youthful as ever."

Our laughter filled the hallway as Dadu continued, "But seriously, kids, I was just pulling your leg. If I come along, who'll keep your Dadi company? You go and have a blast; I won't breathe a word to anyone. Don't overthink." With a fond smile, Dadu bid us farewell, leaving me reflecting on the depth of his love for Dadi.

We arrived at the venue, and everything seemed to be in full swing, with the music, drinks, and ambiance setting the perfect tone for the party. Shortly after, Rony, my cousin, joined us as planned, instantly injecting a vibrant energy into the gathering. His presence alone lifted everyone's spirits, including mine. As people say 'The heart of the party.' As he mingled with the crowd, he engaged in lively conversations, including some with Shruti and Tiara. I couldn't help but notice their laughter, wondering what could be so amusing. But I brushed off the thought, convincing myself i don't care.

However, as time passed, I noticed Rony fetching drinks for both of them, and then something caught my attention. Tiara was affectionately patting Rony's head amidst their laughter. Confusion and a twinge of whatever it is, surged within me. Why was she being so affectionate with him? Without fully realizing my actions, I found myself impulsively walking over to them, taking Tiara's hand and placing it on my head, asking, "My hair's grown too long right? Should i cut them?". It was such a ridiculous move, and I instantly regretted it as everyone's eyes turned towards me, questioning my sudden behavior. Tiara's bewildered, response, "wh... what?" , only added to my embarrassment.

In an attempt to rescue the situation, I awkwardly brushed off my actions, claiming it was nothing and that her opinion didn't matter anyway. Tiara suddenly hearing my reply withdrew her hand, clearly frustrated, and left the scene. Then suddenly, Shruti piped up about my hair, "Bhai, mein bol du (Should I say?)", and Aarav chimed in, laughing from the background, "Or mein kaat du? (And should I cut them?)" . I just glared at him and without saying anything, I walked away. As I left, I overheard Rony asking, "What was that?"

I made my way through the crowded part towards the drinks section, intending to quench my thirst. There, I spotted Tiara ordering a ginger ale. Opting for a classic gin and tonic, I placed my order. Tiara's response, a casual "Huh, expected," caught my attention. Leaning in, I leaned in to ask, prompting her to explain, and she countered, "As per your mouth tastes bitter, it does suit you." I striked back, "As someone who doesn't drink, how do you know that?" Suddenly, upon hearing my question, she tensed up.

Her reaction caught me off guard, her sudden stiffness indicating discomfort. Without a word, she swiftly departed, leaving me standing there, stunned by the abrupt exchange. However, when our orders arrived, I decided to take both drinks, intending to give her the ginger ale. Yet, as I approached her, she declined saying briefly, "I don't need it anymore."