•𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐃 𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐄• /𝑳𝒂𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒚𝒂 𝑺𝒆𝒏/

' 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 1 '

AAROHI'S POV-

Aarohi's fingers danced across the canvas, vibrant colors blending together in a swirling storm of creativity. Her art studio, tucked away in a quiet corner of Mumbai, was her sanctuary. The scent of turpentine and paint filled the air as she lost herself in the rhythm of brushstrokes.

"Aarohi, beta, come downstairs! Your mother needs you!" her father, Vikram, called out from the hallway.

Aarohi sighed, setting down her brush. She wiped her hands on a rag, leaving smudges of paint on her cheeks. "Coming, Papa!"

As she descended the stairs, the sounds of sizzling spices and lively chatter enveloped her. Her family's home was always filled with warmth and laughter.

"Aarohi, we need to talk," her mother, Sonal, said, as she entered the kitchen.

Aarohi's heart skipped a beat. What could this be about?

"Aarohi, we've received a proposal for your marriage," Sonal said, her voice gentle but firm.

Aarohi's heart sank. She had expected this day would come eventually, but she had hoped to delay it.

"Who is it, Maa?" Aarohi asked, trying to sound calm.

"Lakshya Sen, the badminton player. His family is well-respected, and he's a good boy," Sonal replied.

Aarohi nodded, her mind racing. She had heard of Lakshya, of course – who hadn't? But she had never thought she'd be married off to a sports star.

"What do you think, beta?" Vikram asked, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and expectation.

Aarohi hesitated, unsure of how to express her feelings. She didn't want to disappoint her parents, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that this was all happening too fast.

"I...I don't know, Papa," Aarohi said, trying to articulate her thoughts. "I've never even met him. What if we're not compatible?"

Sonal placed a reassuring hand on Aarohi's arm. "We've spoken to his family, and they're lovely people. Lakshya is a nice boy, and he'll take care of you."

Vikram added, "And think of the stability and security this marriage will bring, beta. Lakshya is a successful athlete, and his future is bright."

Aarohi nodded, understanding her parents' perspective. But she couldn't shake off the feeling that they were rushing into this.

"Can I at least meet him before making a decision?" Aarohi asked, hoping to stall the process.

Sonal exchanged a glance with Vikram before nodding. "We'll arrange, They are coming to see you soon. But remember, Aarohi, this is a good opportunity. Don't let your doubts cloud your judgment."

Aarohi nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. She knew her parents wanted the best for her, but she couldn't help wondering if this was the right choice.

LAKSHYA'S POV-

Lakshya Sen was in the middle of a intense badminton practice session when his coach, Kumar, called him aside.

"Lakshya, your parents want to see you," Kumar said, his expression serious.

Lakshya wiped the sweat from his forehead, wondering what this was about. He had been focusing on his game, trying to qualify for the upcoming tournament.

As he entered the living room, he saw his parents, Rajiv and Nalini, sitting on the couch, looking somber.

"Lakshya, we need to talk," Rajiv said, his voice firm.