Who needs a fairy tale when you've got a marriage contract? From strangers to lovers, all it took them was a pen and some fine print.
In the bustling city of Mumbai, Gautam Kapoor stood as a beacon of success and affluence. Admired by many for his a...
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Megha was growing more anxious by the minute. Gautam was nowhere to be found. She searched everywhere she could think of, but there was no sign of him. Finally, exhausted and defeated, she decided to let him calm down. Maybe they could talk later, she thought, when emotions weren't running so high.
The Golden Goose Film Festival was a major event, held at the prestigious Ambani Cultural Exhibition Center. Celebrities from all corners of the entertainment industry were in attendance. It promised to be a grand evening.
At 7 PM, Megha was ready. She had spent hours getting dressed and styled. A company van arrived to take her and her co-actor, Ritesh Goel, to the event. As they rode in the van, Megha forced a smile, trying to brush off her worries.
"Everything okay?" Ritesh asked, noticing her discomfort.
Megha nodded, offering a weak excuse. Inside, she was a whirlwind of emotions but forced herself to stay composed.
They arrived at the venue just in time. The moment they stepped out of the van, the media swarmed around them. Megha wore a stunning black off-the-shoulder dress. The only accessory was a sun grass brooch on her chest. Under the bright lights, the diamonds and gems sparkled brilliantly.
Megha looked every bit the queen, radiating confidence and grace. She and Ritesh, flanked by bodyguards, made their way through the crowd. They paused to sign their names on the signature wall, a tradition at such events.
Right behind them were Naina and her co-star, Aryan Singh. Naina waved to the crowd and approached the signature wall, standing next to Megha.
Naina gave a sly smile. Despite her attempts to spread rumors about Megha, the media had blocked every scandal. Megha remained untouchable.
Inside, the Cultural Arena was packed with celebrities. Singers like Vipul Jain and Anuv Dandekar were also in attendance. The event was hosted by two of India's most famous presenters, known for their seamless chemistry and quick wit. They hardly needed a script.
The ceremony began with a recap of the Golden Goose Awards' history. Then, it was time for the first award: Best Actress.
The hosts announced the nominees. "Naina Sharma for 'Tu Balkhati Ek Nadiya,'" one said. "Megha Gupta for 'Saanjh Ki Dulhan,'" the other added.
Both actresses had delivered stellar performances. Now, it was up to the judges to decide the winner. Megha and Naina stood on the stage, awaiting the results.
Four judges had already voted. It was a tie: two votes for Megha, two for Naina. The final judge, Mahesh Bhatt, had the deciding vote.
"Both actresses were outstanding," Mahesh said. "But my vote goes to the one with the most promising future. My vote is for Miss Naina Sharma."
Naina's face lit up with triumph as she received the award. Megha, despite her disappointment, hugged Naina and congratulated her.
Megha's mind was elsewhere. She went through the motions, but her thoughts were consumed by Gautam. She sent him message after message during the ceremony.
"Honey, where are you? Please don't get angry," she texted.
"You know I never keep anything from you. I only love you and have no feelings towards that guy."
"Honey, please believe me. I have never betrayed our love. Please give me a chance to explain."
"Honey, please forgive me."
But there was no response. As the evening continued, Megha's heart grew heavier. She had lost an award and, more importantly, she feared losing Gautam. She knew she had to find him and make things right.
The festival continued in full swing, but Megha's heart wasn't in it. She kept glancing at her phone, hoping for a message from Gautam. Nothing. She mingled with the guests, posed for photos, and answered interview questions, but her mind was miles away.
Ritesh noticed her distraction. "Megha, are you sure you're okay?" he asked again during a quiet moment.
Megha nodded, forcing another smile. "I'm fine, Ritesh. Just a bit tired."
Ritesh didn't seem convinced, but he let it go. Megha appreciated his concern, but she couldn't bring herself to confide in him.
The awards continued, and the atmosphere grew more celebratory with each passing hour. Megha felt like an outsider looking in, her mind preoccupied with her personal turmoil. She replayed her last conversation with Gautam over and over, trying to figure out where things had gone wrong.
As the night drew to a close, Megha excused herself from the festivities. She needed some air. She stepped outside into the cool night, hoping the quiet would help clear her mind. She pulled out her phone and sent one last message to Gautam.
"Honey, I love you. Please talk to me."
Still no reply. Megha's heart sank. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.
*****
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