The Wedding Whisperer

Chapter 8 : Secrets

"Where are you going?" Aarohi asked, sounding suspicious.

Akshara picked up her tote with an extra pair of clothes to change into for the dance practice with Abhimanyu that evening and said, "I'm heading to a meeting and then to the gym."

"What meeting? It's Friday night, and we were all supposed to go out for drinks and play poker at Jai's house." Aarohi raised a curious eyebrow.

"I am meeting a caterer who seems to have a good platter option. I don't want to miss out on a good deal." She felt guilty about lying to her best friend.

Aarohi smacked her forehead with her palm. "Lord... and here I was secretly hoping that you were meeting someone."

"Nice." Akshara let out a laugh.

"You know, organizing weddings is cool, but you need to get your own life. You need to either go on dates or start dating people we meet as part of our work."

"Not happening." Akshara shook her head.

"Then you need an online profile so you can start seeing someone. You haven't had a relationship since that prick ruined it all," Aarohi grumbled.

Akshara rolled her eyes. "It's not because of him that I don't meet other people; it's because of work."

"Then prove me wrong that your ex is not the reason you don't date anymore."

Akshara laughed. "I will after Anisha's wedding."

"I don't believe you. Then you'll say after my wedding." Aarohi laughed.

"Are you getting married? Who is the lucky guy?" Akshara winked.

"I know you will find another excuse and—"

"Aarohi, I'm serious. I will create an online matrimonial profile right after Anisha's wedding."

"Promise?"

"Yes. I got to go. You guys have fun." Akshara left her office and headed to the parking lot.

Akshara was excited about the surprise Abhimanyu was planning for his sister. The best gift in her mind. She followed the instructions to Abhimanyu's place and realized he lived pretty close to his office, in an upscale apartment complex.

Abhimanyu's parents' mansion was one of the most beautiful homes she had ever been to, and if it were up to her, she would live in that house to be close to the parents and not live on her own like Abhimanyu did. But she knew people enjoyed their freedom. Not everyone obsessed over living with their parents, and she knew it would end up being a fantasy that would never be a reality for her.

It was almost seven by the time she approached the private elevator that took her directly to Abhimanyu's apartment and punched in the code. She had stopped at home on her way to change out of her work clothes. Although not professional attire, she knew it would be easier to practice dancing in comfortable athletic clothes instead of the pencil skirt and silk blouse she had on that day.

She waited as the elevator rode up to the penthouse and keyed in another passcode to open the doors. The heavy metallic doors opened up to a partially covered outdoor space that had a beautiful view of the city on one side and a sanctuary of plants on the other side.

She could immediately see Anisha's touch as a home designer in every aspect of the outdoor space, and the area was just stunning. She walked to the large double doors, and even before she could ring the bell, the doors opened, and Abhimanyu stood at the door wearing a t-shirt that fit him snugly and a pair of linen lounge pants.

"Hi Akshara. Come on in."

"Thanks. You have a beautiful home." She scanned the beautiful living area. "I see a lot of Anisha's touch outside but not so much on the inside."