In a distant marriage with her brooding husband, Ayan, Adira Khanna has resigned herself to a mundane life. However, fate has different plans when Ayan's childhood friends plan a week-long trip to Goa. Little did Adira know that this vacation would...
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Chapter 31
So it goes…
Adira
Among the elite, a dinner was more than just a meal. It was a stage for whispers, exchanges of secrets, and the birthplace of rumors that would ripple through the upper echelons. This evening's gathering was no exception.
The long table was adorned with majestic chairs, each looking fit for a royal, complete with sparkling glass chandeliers overhead. On the opposite side, the buffet displayed an array of dishes, a delightful blend ranging from Indian curries to Italian dishes.
The ladies delicately nibbled on bruschetta and sipped on soups, watching their health and figures. Meanwhile, the uncles wasted no time in heaping their plates with an assortment of richly flavored meat curries and breads.
Almost everyone had made their presence known by now. Arjun's father and stepmother had also arrived, and it was hard to miss the resemblance between father and son – the same eyes, same lips, albeit adorned with distinguished grays. His stepmother, on the other hand, seemed like a model, her appearance enhanced by the work of modern cosmetic wonders – slender legs, enhanced breasts, plumped lips – not a hint of motherly warmth in her demeanor.
Ayan's mother held court at a small gathering of ladies, Esha among them, their conversation of the latest designer fashion trends. Their animated gestures and hushed tones mirrored the intrigue.
Meanwhile, the household maids and the nanny were busy nursing the roaming kids, ensuring they were well taken care of, while the ladies indulged in their fashion-focused discussion.
At another corner, Ayan, Viraj, and Arjun delved into the practicalities and logistics of the upcoming day, their discussions punctuated by nods of agreement. Meanwhile, Kavya and I bonded over our shared passion for both Bollywood and Hollywood movies.
The seating arrangement reflected the web of hierarchy that was prevalent in such gatherings. Ayan's father occupied the head position, a declaration of authority. Beside him, Ayan's mother held her own station, while guests of greater importance nestled closest to the center, their presence a testament to their wealth and standing. The arrangement cascaded in descending order, a design created by Ayan's mother herself.
As for my own placement, I found myself between my mother and Ayan, Arjun seated on the opposite side, flanked by Kavya and Viraj.
"We'll need to ensure a smooth transition from the outdoor area to the ballroom.", Arjun quipped
"You've thought of everything, haven't you?", Viraj raised an eyebrow.
"Well, someone has to. Now, for the vendors, security, sound, and lighting have all been coordinated. They know their cues and setups.", Arjun smirked. It was a serious turn on seeing Arjun talking in his no nonsense voice.
