Falling Into Oblivion

Chapter 19: A Festive Courtyard

unedited chapter ahead.

The courtyard was alive with energy. The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the warm evening air, and fairy lights twinkled across the trees and tents, casting a golden glow. Intricate rangoli patterns decorated the floor, while the cheerful sound of women's laughter filled the space. They sat together, applying mehendi (henna) on each other's hands, their chatter blending with the rhythmic beats of the dholak. Children ran through the crowd, their delighted giggles adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Banhi moved effortlessly among the women, her smile as radiant as the marigold garlands she was arranging. Her laughter rang out, harmonizing with the music and lighthearted chatter.

"Should I put these flowers here, Didi?" a little girl asked, holding a bundle of bright yellow marigolds in her tiny hands.

"Yes, that's perfect! Just over there," Banhi replied warmly, pointing toward the entrance. Turning to Anala, who was busy tying ribbons to the tent poles, she added, "Look at these colors, Anala. They're so beautiful!"

Anala grinned, brushing her hair out of her face as a ribbon fluttered in the breeze. "You've made this whole celebration glow with your energy and laughter, Banhi."

"Alright, enough! I'm not used to hearing so many compliments—I might actually blush!" Banhi replied with a playful laugh, swatting lightly at her friend.

Nearby, Dhriti and a group of girls were seated on colorful cushions, their arms extended as intricate mehendi designs adorned their hands. Dhriti called out, waving her henna-streaked hand. "Banhi, come on! Your hands are still empty!"

"Let me finish some work first," Banhi replied, pretending to sound exasperated, though the sparkle in her eyes betrayed her joy.

As Banhi turned to hang another garland, a shadow fell over her. She froze for a moment before glancing up. Danish stood there, his presence commanding, his intense gaze fixed on her. He was dressed sharply, his dark shirt contrasting with the golden glow of the lights. He said nothing at first, just watching her as she adjusted the flowers.

"Need a hand?" he asked smoothly, stepping closer.

Banhi's smile faltered for a fraction of a second, but she recovered quickly. Keeping her voice calm, she replied, "No, I can manage. Thanks."

Danish didn't move away, his eyes never leaving her. "You've been busy all day. Let me help," he said, his voice low, almost tender, though it carried an edge that made her pulse quicken—not with warmth, but with unease.

"It's really fine," Banhi replied, avoiding his gaze. She kept her hands busy with the garlands, hoping he'd take the hint and leave.

But Danish stayed, his presence oppressive yet calculated. As she bent to pick up another garland, she felt something cold against her shoulder. She froze, looking up to find Danish had placed his car keys there casually, the metallic clink deliberate.

"Banhi," he said softly, his voice almost a whisper, but there was a weight to it that made her stomach twist. "You're ignoring me."

Banhi forced a smile, her mind racing for a way to defuse the tension. "I'm just caught up with all this work. It's a busy night," she said, trying to keep her tone light.

Danish tilted his head, his smile not reaching his eyes. "You always find an excuse to stay busy when I'm around. Why is that?"

Her heart raced, but she kept her expression neutral. "That's not true," she said carefully. "There's just so much to do. You know how weddings are."