ENIGMA

CHAPTER 19

Author's Note:

Dear Readers,

I wanted to give you a heads-up that the upcoming chapter is quite extensive. It spans 2,824 words, and I understand that this is a significant read. For those of you who have been following along, I truly appreciate your dedication and patience. If you have the time, I encourage you to dive into this chapter as it contains crucial developments in the story.

Thank you for your continued support and for sticking with me through this journey. I hope you find the chapter engaging and worth the read.

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Mrs. Sharma nodded in agreement. “It would be great to have a set date so that we can start making the necessary arrangements.”

Mrs. Malhotra looked thoughtful, then responded, “Of course. I’ll confirm it.”

He turned to his wife, Mrs. Malhotra. “Let’s call Panditji and set a date for the engagement ceremony.”

Mrs. Malhotra nodded in agreement and retrieved her phone to contact their family priest. Soon after, the call was made, and the priest was consulted about the most auspicious date for the engagement. After a brief discussion, the date was set for a month later.

As the arrangements continued, Mr. and Mrs. Sharma arrived with a spread of traditional foods, adding to the festive atmosphere. They greeted everyone warmly and offered the delicious fare, adding a touch of home to the occasion.

Amid the bustle, Advik noticed Ruhani repeatedly checking her phone. His eyes narrowed slightly, though he kept his demeanor calm. He approached her, his voice low but firm. “Ruhani, is everything alright?”

Ruhani looked up, her face showing a mixture of anxiety and embarrassment. “It’s nothing. Just... trying to keep in touch with... some things.”

He gently guided her back to the group where the traditional ceremonies were underway. The atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation as Mr. and Mrs. Malhotra presented gold rings to Advik and Ruhani, symbolizing the finalization of their engagement.

“Please, take these rings,” Mr. Malhotra said, holding out the elegant pieces. “May they always remind you of the commitment you’re making to each other.”

As Advik and Ruhani accepted the rings, Advik glanced at Ruhani, whose eyes flickered nervously between the ring and her phone. He knew that she was struggling with the situation but chose to maintain a supportive facade for the moment.

Mrs. Malhotra then spoke with a warm smile, “This is a heritage of the Malhotras. When a wedding is confirmed, we provide this ring to the bride and groom. It symbolizes the exchange of vows and the commitment to one another.”

Ruhani was momentarily lost in her thoughts, her gaze unfocused. Advik noticed her distraction and gently squeezed her forearm, bringing her back to reality. She looked up, her expression a mix of apprehension and resignation.

“It’s okay, Ruhani,” Mrs. Malhotra reassured her. “Now, Advik, please place the ring on Ruhani’s finger.”

Advik complied, carefully sliding the ring onto her finger. He tightened it just enough to ensure it fit securely, his touch deliberate and firm. Mrs. Malhotra then turned to Ruhani. “Now, it’s your turn. Place the ring on Advik’s finger.”

As Ruhani took the ring, her hands trembled, and tears began to well in her eyes. She struggled to steady herself, her composure breaking down. Seeing her distress, Mrs. Sharma came forward to assist her, gently guiding her hand to place the ring on Advik’s finger.