"Politics isn't merely about power; it's about wielding influence with finesse, orchestrating the dance of nations on the world stage."
•••
Welcome to a tale that echoes through the luxurious enclaves of the capital to its very downtrodden streets.
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Khatri Estate
Ananya sat before her dresser, gently running her fingers through her hair as she brushed it.
She wore a delicate, pastel pink sari that shimmered softly in the light, its elegant drape enhancing her graceful appearance.
The mangalsutra around her neck felt unusually heavy, a constant reminder of Trayaksh as frustration bubbled just beneath the surface.
Where is he? Why hadn't he informed me anything about when he'll be back?
Last night he dumped like hot coal and just left without a word.
Jab man karta hai aate hain, jab man karta hai chale jate hain.
(Coming and leaving whenever he pleases.)
No calls. No texts. Nothing. They'd never exchanged numbers or talked on the phone, but she had his—courtesy to Vani—and she was sure he must have hers. And if not, it wouldn't take long to find out.
As the classic saying went—if he wanted, he would.
Didn't he want a chance? Is this really his way of making amends?
She remembered his words from yesterday echoing in her head, Shh... it's nothing. I'm here, okay?
She scoffed. Yeah right.
Does he even think about me?
Her reflection in the mirror showed a blend of beauty and sadness.
The absence of Trayaksh loomed large in her mind—where had he gone without a word and without any indication of when he might return were thoughts that circled constantly in her head.
The silence of his absence was deafening.
Just as her thoughts threatened to spiral, the intercom buzzed, jolting her from her reverie. She quickly walked out of her bedroom and moved to the panel by the door, pressing the button.
"Who is it?"
"It's me, Chachi," Jhilmil's warm voice, soothing like a balm to Ananya's restless heart came through.
Ananya's lips curved into a smile as she hurried to open the door.
Jhilmil stood there, her deep green sari draped gracefully, with a serene smile that radiated warmth. Behind her, two servants struggled to carry a staggering number of shopping bags and boxes.
