CROWNED WITH LOVE : A JOURNEY OF TRADITION AND TEMPTATION

CHAPTER 16 : Mehndi Ceremony

HAPPY READING

 Vihanna called her parents, fabricating a tale about falling head over heels for Prince Aadhyant and urgently wanting to tie the knot due to his father's failing health. Despite the falsehood, her parents, accustomed to backing her choices, readily embraced her announcement, their hearts brimming with joy for their daughter's supposed happiness.

Meanwhile, within the lavish confines of the Raghuvanshi Mansion, Prince Aadhyant took center stage, declaring his desire to wed Vihanna within a week. His parents, elated at the prospect of their son's impending nuptials, welcomed the news with unrestrained delight.

The Raghuvanshis had harbored a fondness for Vihanna since her initial visit, and now, as the prospect of her becoming part of their family loomed closer, their affection for her blossomed even more.

Today marked the vibrant celebration of the Mehndi and Sangeet functions, held within the resplendent halls of the Raghuvanshi Mansion.

The guests had all gathered, enveloping the grandeur of the occasion with their presence. Vihanna sat adorned in a stunning lehenga, her hands being delicately adorned with henna by two skilled artists. The air resonated with the melodies of folk songs, providing a lively backdrop to the festivities. Alisha and her companions swayed gracefully to the music, their movements exuding joy and merriment.

Amidst the cheerful ambiance, one notable absence lingered - Aadhyant. A last-minute urgent meeting had called him away, leaving his presence missed in the midst of the revelry. His mother's voice echoed through the halls, calling out to him with concern. "Aadhyant beta, where are you? Today is the first function of your wedding, and you're not here. Come home soon," she urged.

Aadhyant's response came swiftly, reassuring his mother of his imminent return. "Yes, Maa, I am on my way. My work is concluded, and I'll be there in a few minutes."

As Vihanna observed the joyous scene around her, a twinge of guilt gnawed at her conscience. The happiness shared by all present was palpable, yet she couldn't shake the nagging realization that their joy was built upon a foundation of falsehood. The impending revelation of the truth weighed heavily on her mind, knowing that it would inevitably bring pain and disillusionment to those she held dear.

After a while, Aadhyant finally arrived, making his entrance into the function adorned in a pristine white kurta, intricately embroidered. His presence commanded attention, his charm evident in every stride he took. Vihanna's eyes locked onto him as he entered, her breath catching in her throat at the sight of him. Aadhyant looked strikingly handsome in his traditional attire, his allure heightened by the elegance of ethnic wear.

Engaged in conversation with his mother, Aadhyant's attention momentarily shifted as he caught Vihanna's gaze. A warm smile graced his lips, causing Vihanna's heart to flutter in response. She quickly averted her eyes, pretending to be engrossed in the intricate patterns being etched onto her hands.

As Aadhyant made his way towards her, Vihanna couldn't help but steal glances at him, her heart racing with anticipation. He stood before her, his proximity sending a wave of nervous excitement through her. Leaning in slightly, he brought himself to her eye level, his face mere inches from hers. With gentle, deliberate movements, he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

In a soft whisper, he said, "You are looking breathtakingly gorgeous" his compliment sincere and heartfelt. Vihanna's cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and delight, unsure whether to interpret his actions as genuine flirtation or mere theatrics for the sake of their charade.