The Sun & the Stars Aligned

35: Secrets

TARA

"You can do this, Tara," I whispered to myself, taking a deep breath to steady my nerves.

Standing before the grand venue, my heartbeat quickened as I clutched my purse. The shimmering, sequined gown I wore glistened in the evening light, casting a warm golden hue that made me feel elegant and regal. Off-the-shoulder straps draped gracefully on my arms, the gown hugging my curves perfectly. Tiny sequins created a cascade of glitter with every step I took, and the high slit revealed a glimpse of my leg. I adjusted my hair, letting the soft curls fall over my back.

I exhaled slowly, facing the huge entrance swarmed with reporters.

"Mr. Rajawat, your father Raja Pratap Singh Rajawat's deteriorating health is leading him to step down from his position. What do you have to say about this?" one reporter asked, thrusting a microphone towards him.

Security surrounded him tightly, preventing anyone from getting close. He dodged all questions, choosing to remain silent. His eyes met mine for a fleeting second before his security escorted him inside. Even that brief eye contact sent a shiver down my spine.

Abhimanyu Pratap Singh Rajawat was known for his cold, ruthless demeanor and his unforgiving nature towards betrayal. The heir to the Rajput throne and son of Raja Pratap Singh Rajawat of Jaisalmer, his name alone commanded respect. I had read countless articles about him; he was the epitome of a perfect heir. His coronation was imminent, scheduled for the end of the year due to his father's failing health. However, the Royal family had never publicly addressed his father's condition, leaving everything to speculation.

The reporters' attention shifted when a black Rolls Royce pulled up. "What is he doing here?" I thought, perplexed. The media swarmed around the car. The door opened, and Aditya stepped out.

Dressed in a sleek black tuxedo, his hair perfectly styled, he looked absolutely stunning. The tuxedo accentuated his broad shoulders, exuding an aura of power and confidence. His dark eyes scanned the crowd, and when they found mine, a slow, knowing smile spread across his face.

My breath hitched. Despite the chaos, his presence exuded a calm and control that captivated me. I couldn't take my eyes off him. He walked towards me with smooth, confident strides, as if he owned the very ground beneath his feet.

"Mr. Chauhan, you know this party is organized by your rival, Raghav Chopra, to welcome Mr. Rajawat. So why are you here?" asked a reporter.

Aditya stepped beside me, his hand possessively around my waist. "I'm here to accompany my wife. Now, if you'll excuse us," he said, his tone firm yet polite.

"Adi, what are you doing here? I told you—" I began as we walked inside, but he cut me off.

"I know, jaan, and I realized my mistake. My wife doesn't need any security when her husband can protect her from the world. I'm not sorry for what I did, but I am sorry for not discussing it with you." His grip around my waist tightened, a protective gesture.

"No need to apologize. I know you did it for me, and you would never do anything to hurt me." I smiled up at him, my anger melting away.

"You look gorgeous, baby," he whispered huskily in my ear, his breath warm against my skin. "This shade suits you. I can't wait to ruin it." His teasing words made me blush, but a sudden clearing of a throat interrupted us, shifting our attention.

"Mr. Chauhan, what brings you here? I thought, given our business rivalry, you'd never show up. Well, I'm glad to see you here. Finally, you get to see what the Chopra's are all about," Raghav Chopra said, smirking as he sipped his wine.