Maruvarthai🤍

XVII

The evening sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the sprawling lawns of the Farmhouse. Dressed in their most elegant attire, friends and family filtered in for the grand wedding of Rana and Nitya. The faint sound of traditional Kannada music wafted through the air, mingling with shouts of laughter and giggles. Colourful decorations adorned every corner, setting the perfect backdrop for a celebration overflowing with joy.

Prabhas stood by the entrance, the rays of the sun dancing off the starched white of his kurta. As he scanned the gathering, he couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. Weddings were always a free-for-all when it came to his parents questioning his marital status. But today wasn't about them. As if on cue, his gaze landed on Anushka.

Anushka was radiant, draped in a peacock blue saree that accentuated the graceful curves of her body. Her long hair cascaded down like a waterfall, shimmering under the soft light. She was a vision of beauty and confidence, moving effortlessly through the crowd as she chatted with family members. Her laughter pierced through the chatter, an intoxicating melody that made Prabhas's heart race.

"Dude, How many times I warned you? Stop drooling!" a voice cut through his thoughts. It was Rana, looking polished in his traditional attire as he joined his best friend. "I've seen cadets with better composure than you are right now."

Prabhas chuckled, shaking his head. "Can you blame me? Look at her, man! She's looks stunning."

Rana rolled his eyes but wore a smirk. "Well, if you want to keep that 'stunning' close to you, you might want to bring her back from the empty room before anyone realizes you're missing."

"What empty room?" Prabhas asked, raising an eyebrow.

"The one over there," Rana said, nodding towards a nearby corridor that led to less-travelled parts of the farmhouse. "I know you guys haven't got a moment of yours yet. So sneak to that room but don't make me guard you guys for too long."

"Are you a freaking mentalist?" Rana rolled his eyes at Prabhas's antics. "Because I love you! And if it wasn't your wedding day, I would've kissed you right here".

"Hey! Get lost you donkey". Rana laughed slightly pushing Prabhas.

Prabhas palmed the back of his neck, anxiety creeping in at the thought. His parents definitely wouldn't miss an opportunity to inquire about his relationship status. The last thing he wanted today was another lecture about settling down.

As Prabhas navigated through a sea of family and friends, he made a beeline toward the corridor. His heart thumped in anticipation. Anushka. Just the thought of her sent a rush of adrenaline through his veins. He caught sight of her slipping away from the main hall, evidently trying to avoid the watchful eyes of relatives.

"Sweety!" he called softly, quickening his pace.

She paused, half-turned, her lips curling into a playful smile that made his heart skip. "Trouble already?" she teased, eyes sparkling.

"We just met—how can I be trouble?" He flashed his charming grin.

"Keep telling yourself that," she replied, leading him to the empty room. The door creaked open, and they slipped inside, the sound of the festivities fading into the background. It was dimly lit, secluded, and an air of intimacy enveloped them instantly.

His gaze danced over her, the elegance of the saree accentuated by the playful bounce of her curls. She flipped her hair back, and just like that, Prabhas was lost. Caution flew out the window as he stepped closer.

"Wow, you look incredible," he murmured, taking in the sight of her. She placed a hand on her hip, striking a confident pose.

"Flattery won't get you anywhere, Officer," she replied playfully, her tone light but her eyes smouldering with challenge.