SHADOWS OF DESIRES

chapter 5

  The mehndi ceremony was in full swing, with vibrant colors and cheerful laughter filling the air. The dance floor was alive with the rhythm of traditional music, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Adriti sat at a nearby table, savoring the delicious food in front of her. Her love for good food was no secret, and she was happily indulging in the array of dishes.

  Abhiman, who had been observing the scene from a distance, couldn't help but notice Adriti. There she was, enjoying her meal with such enthusiasm that a small bit of food had gotten stuck on her lips. He found himself drawn to her, unable to look away. Unlike the other girls he'd known, who often picked at their plates to avoid gaining weight and maintained a poised, ladylike demeanor, Adriti was unapologetically herself.

  As if sensing his gaze, Adriti looked up and met his eyes. She saw him staring and decided to tease him. "I know I'm beautiful, no need to stare," she said with a playful smirk. "And if you want some, go get it yourself. I'm not sharing mine."

  Abhiman's lips curved into a slight smile, and he continued to look at her, captivated by her candidness and natural charm. He had met countless women who were concerned with appearances and propriety, but here was Adriti, effortlessly breaking all those norms.

  Before he could respond, Shriti, with her usual exuberance, was in the center of the dance floor, leading a group of friends in a lively dance. Her infectious energy had everyone clapping and moving to the beat. Spotting Adriti enjoying her meal, Shriti's eyes lit up with mischief. She made her way over, weaving through the crowd, and stood before her friend with a playful grin.

  "Come on, Adriti! You can't just sit there and eat all night. Join us on the dance floor!" Shriti exclaimed, extending her hand.

  Adriti looked up, her mouth full, and shook her head. "Shriti, I'm eating. You know how much I love food," she replied, her voice slightly muffled.

  Shriti wasn't having any of it. She grabbed Adriti's hand and pulled her up, much to Adriti's protest. "No excuses! You're coming with me," Shriti insisted, dragging Adriti towards the dance floor.

  Adriti laughed, trying to hold onto her plate. "Alright, alright! Just let me finish this bite!"

  As they reached the dance floor, the music changed to a lively tune, and Shriti didn't waste a second in pulling Adriti into the middle of the group. Adriti's initial reluctance melted away as the rhythm took over. She found herself laughing and dancing along, her plate of food momentarily forgotten.

  Abhiman's gaze intensified as he watched her. Her movements were graceful, yet unrestrained. He noticed the way her waist swayed with the beat, the delicate curve of her collarbone, and her swan-like, fair neck. There was a magnetic allure in the way she moved, and he felt an almost unbearable urge to reach out and touch her, to feel the warmth of her skin against his fingertips.

  Every twirl and sway of her body captivated him further, her dress flowing elegantly with each step. He was entranced, his eyes never leaving her for a second. The sight of Adriti, so vibrant and full of life, was like a breath of fresh air in his otherwise controlled and calculated world.

  On the other hand, Ahana noticed how Abhiman's intense gaze followed Adriti's every move. She felt a surge of jealousy and hatred. She had always sought Abhiman's attention, but he never gave her more than a passing glance. Yet here he was, completely enthralled by Adriti, and it infuriated her.

  As the song ended, Shriti gave Adriti a playful hug. "See? Told you it would be fun!" she said, grinning.

  Adriti, slightly out of breath, smiled back. "You always know how to drag me into these things," she replied, her cheeks flushed from the dancing.