INNOCENCE

Chapter : 26

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The Mehra Manor was bathed in soft, golden light, the chandeliers casting a warm glow across the elegant hall. The atmosphere was intimate and sophisticated, with close friends and family gathered to celebrate Ananya’s remarkable success. The air was filled with the gentle hum of conversations, laughter, and the occasional clink of glasses.

Ananya stood near the grand entrance, effortlessly drawing the attention of everyone around her. Dressed in an exquisite midnight-blue saree that shimmered under the lights, she looked radiant, poised, and in complete control. Her hair, elegantly pinned to one side, framed her face, accentuating her sharp features. Yet, it was her aura that made her stand out even more—a blend of grace, power, and an underlying intensity.

Rihaan, dressed in a sleek black suit, stood near her, his wide eyes constantly darting around the room, excited by the lively atmosphere. He was fascinated by the grown-up conversations but content just being near Ananya. Mr. and Mrs. Mehra were speaking with some close friends, while Raj and his wife, Priya, kept their children, Isha and Rishi, entertained. It was a perfect gathering—small, private, and filled with people who genuinely cared about each other.

As the party went on, Ananya was called over by Mr. Mehra. “Ananya, dear,” he said warmly, “come greet the Sharmas. They’ve just arrived.”

Her gaze flickered for a moment but remained unreadable as she nodded and walked gracefully towards the door where Mr. and Mrs. Sharma stood. They looked awkwardly out of place, clearly aware of the tension that lingered between them and Ananya, though it was mostly masked by smiles and polite conversation.

“Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. Sharma,” Ananya greeted them, her voice smooth and formal. She didn’t falter for a second, her eyes briefly meeting Mr. Sharma’s with a glint that only he seemed to catch.

Mr. Sharma’s gaze lingered on her, his mind racing. He was trying to assess her demeanor, searching for any sign that she knew about the papers he had received. His fingers twitched at his side as if ready to defend himself. But Ananya, as usual, was an enigma. There was nothing in her expression that betrayed what she knew, if she knew anything at all.

Mrs. Sharma, oblivious to the tension simmering between her husband and Ananya, offered a polite smile. “You look beautiful, Ananya. It’s such a wonderful party.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Sharma,” Ananya replied with a nod. “I’m glad you could join us tonight.”

After a few more exchanges, Mr. Sharma, unable to take the uncertainty any longer, cleared his throat. “Ananya, could we speak in private for a moment? There’s something I need to discuss with you.”

Ananya’s eyes flicked to him, her expression still cool and controlled. She didn’t want to create a scene, so she nodded. “Of course, Mr. Sharma.”

They walked out to the balcony, away from the crowd, the cool night air brushing against their skin. The moment they stepped outside, the silence between them became heavy, almost suffocating. Mr. Sharma fidgeted uncomfortably, his mind a whirlwind of anxiety. He could feel his pulse quickening with every second that passed.

He glanced at Ananya, who stood calmly, gazing out at the moonlit sky. She was so still, so composed, it unnerved him. Finally, he couldn’t take it anymore. He needed to know if she was aware of what had been revealed to him.

“So… Ananya,” he started, his voice shaky. “How… how have you been? You seem… different.”

Ananya slowly turned to face him, her expression unreadable but her eyes sharp. She didn’t respond immediately, letting the tension build. Then, in a clear, almost too-calm tone, she said, “Uncle, why do you sound so anxious?”