Between Us

24. The Jealousy Within

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Rudra…

As I mingled with guests and business partners, my attention never strayed far from Aarohi. She was the picture of happiness, her laughter ringing out as she moved effortlessly from one conversation to another, her presence lighting up the room. I couldn’t help but steal glances at her, captivated by how she seemed to fit perfectly into this world. She looked radiant, her smile genuine as she engaged with everyone around her.

Just then, Eklavya appeared beside me, a teasing grin on his face. “She’s looking beautiful, isn’t she?” he remarked, his voice low and knowing.

I nodded, my gaze still fixed on Aarohi. “Indeed, she is,” I replied softly, almost to myself.

Eklavya chuckled. “Oh, admiring her, are we?” he teased. “Well, let me go and say hello.”

I turned to him sharply. “Just don’t do anything unnecessary,” I warned, my tone more serious than I intended.

He laughed, brushing off my concern with a wave of his hand. “Relax, bro! You focus on your guests. Let me entertain my sweet sister-in-law.” With that, he moved away toward Aarohi.

The moment the words "sister-in-law" left his lips, a sharp pang shot through my chest. His casual use of the term struck a nerve, a stark reminder of how much I wanted her to be mine, to make her an inseparable part of my life. But it also brought a realization: perhaps it was too soon to think of her that way. Yet, the idea wasn’t unwelcome; in fact, it felt like a natural progression, something that would eventually come to pass. Still, it was a thought that caught me off guard.

I forced myself to return my focus to the people around me, nodding and smiling as they spoke, though my mind was only half-present. I could feel my eyes continually drifting back to Aarohi, watching as Eklavya joined her.

She laughed at something he said, her face lighting up with joy. Even from across the room, I could feel the warmth of her presence. My heart tightened again, a mix of longing and anticipation swirling within me.

Every smile she gave him, every glance in his direction, tugged at something deep inside me. I knew I should be mingling, building connections, strengthening bonds, but all I could think about was her. How she seemed to effortlessly draw everyone in, how her happiness was like a beacon in the room. And how desperately I wanted to be the one she turned to with that brilliant smile, to be the reason behind her laughter.

When Eklavya was leaving, he hugged her from the side, and she reciprocated the gesture. To be honest, I felt a surge of jealousy. I know he’s my best friend, but still, seeing them so close bothered me.

We moved on to the dinner section, and after a while, Aarohi appeared again, this time engaged in a conversation with her boss. Her boss then introduced her to a new guy. My attention instantly shifted to her.

I excused myself and joined Ekalavya, who was busy flirting with a group of girls. I grabbed his arm and pulled him aside. "You seem to be enjoying yourself a lot," I said, trying to keep my tone light.