Destined Apart♡

Chapter - 3

Author's pov

Rudra stood among the colorful balloons and festive decorations at his younger brother’s birthday party, surrounded by laughter and cheerful chatter. The celebration was in full swing when his grandfather unexpectedly took the microphone, drawing everyone’s attention. “I have an important announcement,” his grandfather said, his voice steady and confident. “I’m pleased to announce the engagement of my grandson Rudra to Neera!”

The room went silent. All eyes turned toward Rudra, and he felt his chest tighten. He knew Neera wasn’t a suitable match—her carefree, rebellious lifestyle clashed with everything he believed in. Yet, in that moment, with everyone watching, Rudra couldn’t bring himself to deny his grandfather. He glanced at the older man, whose face beamed with pride and hope, utterly oblivious to Rudra’s internal struggle.

For a split second, Rudra considered voicing his objection, but the weight of family expectations and the need to uphold his grandfather's dignity held him back. For the sake of his family, he forced a smile and nodded, agreeing to something he didn’t want. Inside, frustration bubbled up, but he promised himself he would talk to his grandfather later, away from the prying eyes of the guests. For now, trapped in the swirl of conflicting emotions, he could only go along with the announcement, hoping he could find a way out once the party was over.

The room erupted into applause after Rudra’s grandfather’s announcement, the sound filling the space as everyone celebrated the unexpected engagement. Aarna, standing at the back, clapped along with the rest, her smile bright as she watched the scene unfold. But her mind soon drifted to Yuv, Rudra’s younger brother, eager to know if he enjoyed the cake she had made.

Aarna approached him with a warm smile. “Hi, baby! Did you like the cake?”

Yuv’s eyes sparkled as he looked up at her. “This is the best cake I’ve ever had in my life!” he exclaimed.

Aarna’s heart swelled with joy at his words. Just then, Rudra’s grandmother, the matriarch of the house, joined them. She thanked Aarna for the cake and, curious about her work, asked, “What do you do, dear?”

Aarna beamed as she explained, “I run a bakery and handle all the baking myself. Sometimes, I even decorate for small events like engagements and birthday parties.” The grandmother nodded approvingly, her smile kind and warm. Aarna continued chatting with Yuv, who was just four years old, enjoying the simplicity of their conversation.

Suddenly, Rudra appeared, his expression tense as he approached them. “Come on, let’s go,” he said curtly, addressing Yuv without sparing Aarna a glance. Aarna stood up and, trying to keep the atmosphere light, offered a congratulatory smile. “Congratulations, sir, on your engagement,” she said.

Rudra shot her a disgusted look, his voice cold as he muttered, “Shut up,” before walking away. Aarna watched him leave, a mixture of confusion and annoyance bubbling up inside her. She muttered to herself, "Maine kuch galat bola kyah ... nevermind Ameer log or inke nakhre.”

("Did I say something wrong? Never mind. Rich peopleamd there dramas")

As the scene shifted to after the party, the guests had all left the hall, leaving only the family members, Neera, and her family behind. The atmosphere was heavy with lingering tension. Rudra, still unsettled by his grandfather’s sudden announcement, approached him and politely asked, “Grandpa, could we talk on the side?”

They moved to a quieter corner, away from prying eyes and ears. Rudra spoke first, his voice edged with frustration. “Grandpa, you promised to give me time to think about finding someone. Why did you announce my engagement to Neera without asking me?”