The Broken Heart Syndrome

CHAPTER 5

RHYTHM

Here I thought I might get some time to continue my current fantasy novel and relax but it was all wishful thinking.

But I can't complain either cause of how everything turned out. I look at myself in the mirror. The crop top and skirt fits me perfectly, leaving an inch or two space around my waist. I accessorized it with fake gold hoops and rings and straightened my wavy hair. I like keeping my looks sleek and simple. I don't like to wear too much makeup in general and because of my acne too but I'm a sucker for bold eyeliner looks. So, today I did what makeup artists call sleepy eye makeup which just compliments my naturally upturned eyes.

So yeah I feel pretty today after a very long time.

Coming from a family of public figures who have a lot of acquaintances, going to these kinds of parties isn't new for me but it has been hard for me for last couple of years. Now, I can't really stand big gatherings, stares, small talks, it all just makes me anxious and too stimulated. So, I made a mental list of things to remind myself to keep calm.

So welcome to Rhythm's social events survival 101-

1) There are always going to be people who are better looking and better dressed from you, so just have to be confident in whatever you are wearing and turn off that voice that says otherwise.

2) Don't make eye contact with anyone. Pretend like you and your companions are the only people there.

3) Busy yourself with a drink or dive right in the food area.

4) Stick close to your brother, annoying him will be your personal entertainment for the evening.

5) Or my absolute favourite. Find yourself a place, out of sight of everyone, take out your phone and

READ!

Ha! The best! I'm a freaking genius.

While I'm reminding myself of these, we are here already at the venue. The party is in the front lawn of some 7-star restaurant. It's very pretty here, decorated with fairy lights. I never would have thought that rich people's business parties would be like this. I thought it'd be all very formal and boring.

We are seated at a round table. And my father and uncle have already started about who's who and who will be more inclined to be helpful.

I'm more interested in the food in front of me. I can't eat a lot but my brother can, so I turn my attention to his plate. He knows the drill so he's already offering it to me. I laugh at his resigned face.

"Rhythm, do you know who that man is? The one in white kurta in the middle?" asks my father.

I frown and look at where he's pointing.

In the middle of the biggest group here, is a man. He looks very important by the attention he's getting. He's probably in his early 60s with graying hair and medium build.

"I'm not interested in politics or politicians, father. Why would I know him?" I mutter distracted on my phone, searching for something to read.

"Well, he's very successful, famous and rich politician in the US, his name is Aadiraj Singhania. He has many successful businesses around the globe." He says.

"Well, then he should start sharing them a little with us little folks," I say sarcastically making everyone laugh at the table.

Father chooses to ignore this like always and continues, "All his businesses are handled by his oldest son and his friend."

"Anyway, one of the main reasons for this party is that he's looking for someone for his son to settle down with."

I frown," I thought this was a political business party. You know gossiping about conspiracies, scandals and making deals and allies."