Tears Of Pain

**Chapter 4: Seeds of Doubt**

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The days continued to pass with a sense of growing normalcy. Kavya settled into her routine, her life with Arjun becoming more comfortable and familiar. Their bond deepened with each shared meal, each quiet conversation, and every small gesture of kindness. But despite the warmth of her new life, there was an undercurrent of uncertainty that she couldn't shake.

One morning, as Kavya prepared breakfast in the kitchen, Arjun entered with a thoughtful expression. "Kavya, I was thinking," he began, sitting at the small dining table. "How would you feel about attending a business event with me this weekend?"

Kavya paused, her hand hovering over the frying pan. "A business event?"

"Yes," Arjun nodded. "It's a charity gala hosted by one of my business partners. It's a good opportunity to network, but more than that, I thought it would be nice for us to go together. You’ve been getting more comfortable, and I’d love to introduce you to some of my colleagues."

Kavya hesitated. The idea of attending a formal event filled with wealthy, influential people made her uneasy. She had always felt out of place in such settings, and the thought of being scrutinized by strangers brought back memories of the judgment she had faced growing up.

Arjun noticed her hesitation and quickly added, "Of course, it’s entirely up to you. If you’re not comfortable, we don’t have to go."

Kavya forced a smile, appreciating his thoughtfulness. "No, it’s fine, Arjun. I’ll go with you."

As the day of the gala approached, Kavya’s anxiety grew. She found herself second-guessing her decision, wondering if she would be able to fit in or if she would embarrass Arjun in front of his colleagues. But she kept these thoughts to herself, not wanting to burden him with her insecurities.

On the evening of the gala, Kavya stood in front of the mirror, dressed in a deep blue sari that Arjun had chosen for her. The rich fabric clung to her frame, accentuating her curves, and the delicate embroidery sparkled under the light. Despite the beauty of the sari, Kavya felt a knot of unease in her stomach. She applied her makeup with trembling hands, trying to steady her nerves.

When she stepped out of the bedroom, Arjun was waiting for her in the living room. His eyes lit up when he saw her, and he smiled warmly. "You look beautiful, Kavya," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

Kavya blushed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Thank you, Arjun. You look handsome too."

Arjun offered her his arm, and together they left for the gala. The venue was a grand hotel in the heart of Delhi, its opulent halls filled with elegantly dressed guests. Chandeliers sparkled above, casting a warm glow over the room, and soft music played in the background. The air was filled with the sound of laughter and clinking glasses as people mingled and exchanged pleasantries.

As they entered the ballroom, Kavya felt a wave of apprehension wash over her. She clung to Arjun’s arm a little tighter, feeling like an outsider in a world of privilege and power. Arjun seemed to sense her discomfort and gave her a reassuring squeeze. "Just stay by my side, Kavya. You’ll be fine."

They moved through the crowd, Arjun introducing her to various colleagues and business associates. Everyone was polite and welcoming, but Kavya couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being judged. She noticed the subtle glances, the way some people’s smiles didn’t quite reach their eyes, and the occasional patronizing tone in their voices.

As the evening wore on, Kavya found herself standing alone by the buffet table, watching Arjun from across the room as he engaged in a lively conversation with a group of businessmen. She felt a pang of loneliness and self-doubt. In that moment, she wondered if she would ever truly belong in this world.

Just then, a woman approached her, holding a glass of champagne. She was strikingly beautiful, with sharp features and a confident air about her. Kavya recognized her as Priya Mehra, one of Arjun’s business partners.

"Hello, you must be Kavya," Priya said with a polite smile. "I’m Priya. I’ve heard a lot about you."

Kavya returned the smile, though she felt uneasy. "Yes, that’s right. It’s nice to meet you."

Priya’s eyes seemed to appraise her for a moment before she spoke again. "You’re very lucky to have married Arjun. He’s quite the catch, you know. Wealthy, successful, and so charming. But I suppose you already know that."

Kavya forced another smile, unsure of how to respond. There was something in Priya’s tone that made her feel uncomfortable, as if there was an underlying message behind the words.

"Arjun and I have worked together for years," Priya continued, her voice casual but pointed. "He’s always been a dedicated businessman. It’s interesting to see him with someone like you. I mean, you must find this world quite different from what you’re used to."

The words stung, and Kavya felt a flush of embarrassment rise to her cheeks. "It is different," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But Arjun has been very supportive."

"Of course," Priya said, her smile never wavering. "He’s always been generous. I’m sure he’ll take good care of you."

With that, Priya excused herself and walked away, leaving Kavya feeling more isolated than ever. The woman’s words echoed in her mind, planting seeds of doubt that threatened to take root. Was she really out of her depth? Did she truly belong in Arjun’s world, or was she just an outsider, clinging to a life that didn’t fit her?

The rest of the evening passed in a blur. Kavya stayed close to Arjun, but her mind was elsewhere, consumed by the lingering effects of Priya’s comments. By the time they returned home, she was emotionally exhausted.

As they got ready for bed, Arjun noticed the change in her demeanor. "Kavya, is everything okay? You’ve been quiet since the gala."

Kavya hesitated, not wanting to burden him with her insecurities. "I’m fine, Arjun. Just a bit tired, that’s all."

Arjun didn’t push further, but his concern was evident. He kissed her forehead gently before they settled into bed. Kavya lay awake long after Arjun had fallen asleep, her mind racing with doubts and fears. She wanted to believe that she was strong enough to navigate this new life, but the nagging voice in the back of her mind kept telling her otherwise.

In the darkness, Kavya made a silent vow to herself. She would prove that she belonged, not just in Arjun’s world, but in her own skin. She would face these challenges head-on, no matter how difficult they might be. But even as she made that promise, the seeds of doubt had already begun to sprout, and Kavya knew that the road ahead would be anything but easy.

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      Author aradhya ✨