Shiddat

Chapter 15

The grand hall shimmered with the brilliance of opulent chandeliers, casting a warm glow that danced across the polished marble floor. Lavish tapestries depicting scenes of valiant knights adorned the walls, each stroke of color telling tales of bravery and honor. Rich, golden curtains framed the windows, offering glimpses of the meticulously manicured gardens beyond, where lanterns twinkled like distant stars. The air was thick with the aromas of a global feast-delicacies from every corner of the world graced the tables, their fragrances mingling in a tantalizing symphony that teased the senses. The hum of excited conversation filled the room, punctuated by bursts of laughter, as elegantly dressed guests, their attire sparkling like constellations, moved through the space with a lively grace.

In the heart of this dazzling scene stood Arjun, a figure of undeniable presence and poise. His dark blue suit, woven from the finest silk, was meticulously tailored to accentuate his broad shoulders and athletic physique. Silver embroidery, delicate and intricate, traced the edges of his suit, adding a touch of sophistication that set him apart. His hair, artfully tousled, framed a face marked by sharp features and a smile that, though warm, hinted at a depth of character not easily discerned. But it was his eyes-deep, penetrating pools of brown-that drew people in, exuding an aura of intelligence and quiet confidence that commanded respect. Among the sea of glittering gowns and sharp suits, Arjun was a beacon of elegance and authenticity, his presence as commanding as it was comforting.

As he moved through the hall, Arjun effortlessly took charge of the traditional rituals, each gesture steeped in reverence and precision. His voice, deep and resonant, guided the assembly through ancient customs, infusing the proceedings with a sense of gravitas that anchored the evening in tradition.

Meanwhile, in a quiet room above the festivities, Ananya stood before a mirror, her reflection a study in contrast. The soft glow of the lamps bathed her in a golden light, but her heart was heavy with doubt. "Was this marriage just another deal for him?" she wondered, her voice barely a whisper as tears welled in her eyes, memories of the previous day's events playing on repeat in her mind. Arjun's words, cold and distant, had cut deep, leaving her questioning the very foundation of their impending union. She glanced down at her bare finger, soon to bear the weight of a ring that felt more like a shackle than a symbol of love. Closing her eyes, she tried to steady her breath, but the thought of facing the man who was to become her husband filled her with dread that twisted her stomach. "Does he even want to marry me?" The question lingered in her mind, heavy and unanswered.

As the rituals in the hall continued, the murmurs of the crowd shifted towards the entrance, where a collective hush fell over the guests. All eyes turned to Ananya, now making her entrance. She was a vision in white, her gown flowing like liquid silk to the floor. Delicate lace adorned the bodice, shimmering in the soft light, while her veil, as sheer as a whisper, framed her face with an ethereal glow. Her smile, though tinged with uncertainty, lit up the room, her eyes sparkling with a mix of hope and fear.

Aryan, Arjun's closest friend, who had been standing by his side, leaned in with a nudge and a playful grin. "Come on, buddy, everyone's waiting to see the star couple. It's your moment! Although you didn't see her photo before, you can't seem to take your eyes off her now!"

Arjun, momentarily distracted from his composed demeanor, glanced at Aryan before stepping forward to escort Ananya onto the stage. The candlelight flickered softly around them, the curtains shimmering like a dream as they stood together, a picture of poised elegance. As he slid the gleaming ring onto Ananya's trembling finger, his expression remained inscrutable, revealing nothing of the thoughts swirling in his mind. In contrast, Ananya's hands shook visibly as she placed the diamond ring on Arjun's finger, her nervousness palpable. She looked up at him, her eyes filled with unspoken dreams for their future, but his gaze remained distant, devoid of emotion.