Together Forever

Chapter 10

Anika's POV

As I got ready for the DJ night, the usual excitement I should've felt was nowhere to be found. Instead, a heavy cloud of dread hung over me, all because of Uday. I couldn't believe how everything had changed so quickly—how he had changed. I never expected him to cross that line, to shatter the trust I had in him. How could he do that to me? 

The thought of dancing with him tonight made my stomach churn. I didn't want to be near him, let alone dance with him, but how was I supposed to explain that to everyone?

I glanced at my reflection in the mirror, trying to find some semblance of the excitement I should've been feeling. My outfit was perfect, my makeup carefully done, but there was a hollowness in my eyes that I couldn't ignore. With a sigh, I grabbed my keys and a small bag with some clothes, knowing I'd be staying at Masi's house after the DJ night.

When I arrived, I parked my car and took a deep breath before stepping out. As I walked toward the entrance, I spotted Masi and Nitya's family standing together, their laughter and easy conversation a stark contrast to the turmoil inside me. For a moment, I hesitated, forcing a smile onto my face before walking over to join them. 

I approached them, trying to keep my emotions in check. As soon as Nitya saw me, she rushed over with a bright smile and pulled me into a warm hug. "You're here! Wow, you look so pretty, Anika!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

I forced a smile, returning the compliment. "You're looking stunning too, Nitya," I replied, genuinely meaning it. Nitya had a way of lighting up a room, her joy contagious even in moments like this.

I went on to greet everyone else in the group—Masi, Nitya's parents, and the other relatives—carefully avoiding Uday. I could feel his gaze on me, heavy and persistent, but I refused to meet his eyes. Just the thought of facing him made my chest tighten, so I focused on the others, engaging in small talk and smiling as best I could.

"Come, let's go inside," Nitya said, linking her arm with mine. "Guests will start arriving soon."

With a nod, I followed her lead, thankful for the distraction. We all made our way into the hotel, the air inside buzzing with anticipation for the night ahead. The venue was beautifully decorated, filled with vibrant colors and twinkling lights that reflected the celebratory mood. But no matter how lively the atmosphere was, I couldn't shake the unease settled deep within me.

Then my phone rang and i excused myself.

I talked for a minute on the phone and was about to go,when I turned around, only to bump straight into someone. My heart skipped a beat as I looked up and realized it was Uday. My body tensed as I quickly averted my gaze and stepped aside, determined to walk away without a word.

"Anika," he called, stepping in front of me, blocking my way. His voice held a strange mixture of concern and tension, but I wasn't in the mood for any of it.

I kept my gaze down, refusing to meet his eyes. "Move," I muttered, trying to brush past him, but he gently caught my wrist, stopping me in my tracks.

I ignored him and shifted to move around him, but he stayed in my way, his voice more insistent this time. "Anika, please."

He sighed, running a hand through his hair, a sign of his own frustration. "I just... I wanted to check if you're okay. You've been avoiding me all night."

"I wonder why," I snapped, finally looking up at him, my eyes narrowed with irritation. "What did you expect, Uday? That I'd just pretend like nothing happened? That I'd smile and dance with you like everything's fine?"