Shiddat

Chapter 13

On Saturday morning, both the Rathore and Sharma households buzzed with excitement, each preparing meticulously for the momentous meeting that would shape their futures.

At the Rathore Mansion, the air was filled with the fragrant scent of fresh jasmine and marigolds, with the staff meticulously arranging everything to perfection. Sumiran Rathore, the matriarch, oversaw the preparations with a discerning eye, ensuring that every detail reflected the family's pride and status. The occasion was more than just a meeting-it was a crucial step in solidifying ties between two esteemed families.

Meanwhile, in his room, Arjun Rathore glanced out of the window, lost in thought. The significance of the day was not lost on him, yet an unsettling feeling gnawed at him. His phone buzzed on the polished oak table, snapping him out of his reverie. It was his PA, Ms. Rao, and the look on Arjun's face darkened as he answered the call. The conversation was brief, but it was clear from his furrowed brow that the news was unwelcome.

After hanging up, Arjun turned back to his family, his expression apologetic. "Something urgent has come up at the office. I need to go in for a bit, so I won't be able to come with you all."

A collective sigh filled the room, the festive atmosphere momentarily dampened by the disappointment. Rajveer Rathore, Arjun's father, placed a reassuring hand on his son's shoulder. Arjun nodded, grateful for his father's understanding, before excusing himself to prepare for the unexpected trip to the office.

Across town, the Sharma residence was equally alive with activity. Ananya stood before her wardrobe, carefully selecting an outfit that would strike the right balance between elegance and comfort. The day held the weight of her family's hopes, and she wanted to make sure she honored those expectations.

After a journey of about an hour, the Rathore family's sleek car pulled up in front of the Sharma residence. The house, with its well-kept garden and welcoming facade, radiated warmth. Inside, the air was thick with anticipation. When the doorbell rang, Nalini felt her heart skip a beat. She quickly composed herself and hurried to the door, her face lighting up with a bright smile as she greeted the Rathores.

"Namaste, please come in," Nalini Sharma said warmly, her voice filled with genuine warmth as she ushered the Rathore family inside.

The living room, adorned with tasteful decor and bathed in the soft glow of afternoon sunlight, became the setting for their meeting. The scent of freshly brewed tea and the soft clinking of cups filled the air as polite conversation flowed between the two families. The Rathores, seated comfortably on the plush sofas, engaged in friendly exchanges with the Sharmas, both sides eager to make a good impression. Yet, beneath the surface of these pleasantries, there was a shared awareness of the true purpose of this gathering-a purpose that added a subtle tension to the atmosphere.

As the conversation ebbed and flowed, Maya's curious eyes scanned the room, searching for the one person she hadn't yet seen. Leaning forward slightly, she asked in a playful tone, "But where is she?"

Nalini's smile wavered for just a moment before she chuckled lightly, understanding the anticipation behind the question. "Ananya is just upstairs," she replied, her voice tinged with both pride and fondness. "I'll go get her." Excusing herself, she made her way upstairs, her footsteps soft on the polished wood.

Upstairs, Ananya stood before the mirror, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. Dressed in a mint green saree, the soft fabric draped gracefully over her, enhancing her natural elegance. The reflection staring back at her was that of a poised young woman, yet beneath her composed exterior, her heart fluttered with a mix of anxiety and curiosity. Her mind raced with thoughts of the man she was about to meet-a man whose reputation preceded him. She knew enough about the Rathores to be nervous, especially Arjun Rathore, the eldest son and heir to the family's empire. He was a man of few words, known for his steely demeanor and ruthless business acumen. What if it's him? she thought, her heart skipping a beat. How would I manage with someone so aloof-someone who doesn't even smile? The very idea seemed daunting. But why would someone like him agree to this?