Aarohi And Dev

CHAPTER 4

Aarohi POV

"This is what I was talking about. Whatever is on your mind, just voice your thoughts. I'm here to support you, no matter what" Her words echoed in the car.

I tend to be quite talkative around her, but when it comes to sharing my emotions, I find it challenging. I think it’s also because I’ve never truly been heard in my life. It’s always someone giving orders, and me simply following them, without ever expressing my own opinions.

I was shocked to see my home decorated as if an event or celebration were going on when I arrived. I hope my suspicions are unfounded. Despite my reserved nature, I can gauge situations accurately.

"Wow, mujhe nahi pata tha aaj Aarav bhai ki shaadi hai!" Tara gasped with excitement as she took in the decorations.
[ Wow, I didn't know today is Aarav bhai's wedding ]

As soon as I laid eyes on my mother, I gently took her hands and asked, "Ma, what's happening?" Although I had a feeling, I didn't want it to be the truth.

Just as my mom was about to speak up, my dad intervened, exclaiming, "You're here! Get ready right away, they'll be here soon!" With a sudden revelation, Mom exclaimed, "Your engagement is set for tonight." Apologies shone through her eyes.

Despite the chaos inside, I put on a smile and said, "Sure, I'll get dressed and be down in a moment."

As Tara assisted me in getting ready, she began, "I understand you weren't informed about this. I also realize you wouldn't appreciate me stepping in and speaking with your dad. But if you need my assistance, just let me know. I promise, I can alter your destiny." She has a knack for lifting my spirits.

"You're the best thing that's ever happened to me, you know that?" I said lovingly. "Well, let's face it, I'm kind of a big deal," She joked with a wink. We had a good laugh and then made our way back downstairs.

With no sign of the man yet, they decided to postpone the ceremony. Just as uncertainty began to settle in, a man in his mid-twenties arrived at the ceremony, his presence bringing a sense of relief and anticipation to the gathering.

He was of average height and build, with a friendly smile and a warm demeanor. His hair was neatly styled but not overly styled, and his features were pleasant and approachable.

He walked up to me and took my hand gently, leaning in to whisper, "I apologize for keeping such a lovely lady waiting." As I attempted to release my hand from his hold, Tara swiftly stepped in, liberating my hand with a playful smirk aimed at him.

Tara leaned in and joked, "If someone dropped that line on me, I'd have done a dramatic fainting act on the spot!" Honestly, that line was cringe worthy. Who talks like that?

Following the ring exchange ceremony, Advik, whose name I learned from his family, suggested a walk in the garden. As we walked, he inquired, "Tell me about yourself?" I wondered if this was turning into impromptu interview.

"Aarohi, as you're aware, I've just begun my MBA program" Dang it! Socializing is not my forte. What else should I add?

"Oookay, hi Aarohi, but what about your likes and dislikes?" He further queried. He is nice.

"I like sleeping and binge-watching, but I can't stand people who lack consideration." I attempted to express.

"I anticipated that you would mention your interest in academics, given your reputation for academic excellence" Advik said.

Not everyone excelling in academics necessarily enjoys studying. Personally, I find the whole process repulsive, I detest studying. However, I push myself to study because I simply cannot bear the thought of failure.

I smiled and made an effort to strike up a conversation, "What about you?"

"I must confess, I have a weakness for admiring beautiful ladies and engaging in delightful conversations with them", he owned it, and I had to fight back the urge to cackle like a wicked witch.

Fortunately, Tara swooped in just in time like my guardian angel, announcing, "Ruhi, your mom is calling you" Addressing Advik, I remarked, "I think it's time for me to go. It was nice getting acquainted with you." With a warm smile, he replied, "The pleasure was mine."

As we entered the house, I inquired of Tara, "What's up with mom calling?" To which she promptly replied, "Oh no, she didn't!"

"I respect your privacy, but I had this gut feeling about him that I couldn't ignore. I'm sorry if I disrupted your pleasant stroll with him," she added with a less-than-delighted expression, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at her reaction.

"Don't worry, you didn't" I assured. After the ceremony concluded and everyone said their goodbyes, I asked Tara to shoot me a text once she got home safely.

As I made my way to my room, I noticed Dad and Dadi glancing in my direction. While Dad's expression remained neutral, Dadi's gaze held a hint of disdain.

After everything settled down, I took a moment to relax and checked my phone to see if Tara had sent me a message. I checked her message that said "Reached," and then I noticed she created a group called "3 single, 1 sacrificed." I couldn't help but chuckle and tapped on the chat with amusement. She texted at the same time

TarStar : Breaking news: Ruhi just upgraded her relationship status to happily engaged! Show her some love, folks!

Rajveer : Congratulations!

Mayankey :  Ari's engagement. I am feeling betrayed. Who's the lucky guy?

Rajveer : Definitely not you.

Mayankey : Zip it! I'll be the dream boyfriend anyone could ask for!

TarStar: Ah, the dream boyfriend who doesn't know when to zip it! Dream on, buddy!

Me:  Hey, let's put the roast on hold before someone gets burnt!
And Mayu, It's Advik Shah!

I shared the pictures from the ceremony with them.

Mayankey : Woah, he is handsome!

Me: I'll catch you up on the rest of the details tomorrow, don't worry!

Rajveer left the group chat.

Mayankey : Weirdo
TarStar: Weirdo
Me: Weirdo

We all texted at the same time. Shortly after, I received a text from an unknown number and tapped on it to see who it was from.

UNKNOWN: Good night beautiful, Dream about me.

I didn't need to think twice to know who it was. He's on a whole new level of cheesy.

I saved his number as Advik, bid goodbye and drifted off to sleep.
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