RESTART

Chapter 6

The grand hotel ballroom was awash in soft, twinkling lights, and the scent of fresh flowers filled the air. Jeevika and Abhiman stepped out of the car, hand in hand, their presence commanding attention as they walked toward the entrance. Jeevika's lehenga shimmered with every step she took, and Abhiman looked dashing in his tailored suit. The couple's arrival was met with admiring glances from the guests who had already started to gather.

As they entered the ballroom, Jeevika caught Abhiman's gaze. His eyes were fixed on her, and there was a warmth in his expression that made her heart flutter. She felt a mix of excitement and nerves, a stark contrast to the composed exterior she tried to maintain. The sparkle in his eyes made her acutely aware of the significance of this night—both a celebration of their union and a step into a new chapter of their lives.

Abhiman gently squeezed her hand, guiding her toward the stage that had been set up for the evening's festivities. The guests, including her own family, were starting to mingle and find their seats. Jeevika noticed her stepmother and stepsister among them, their presence a reminder of her past life. Her stepmother's cold smile and her stepsister's dismissive glance were unsettling, but she focused on the supportive faces of her own relatives. She embraced her father, drawing strength from his comforting presence.

The party was in full swing when Veer, always ready to add a touch of fun, took to the microphone. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he announced with a grin, “It’s time for the newlyweds to have their first dance!”

Jeevika's heart skipped a beat as the spotlight turned toward her and Abhiman. The eyes of everyone in the room were now on them. Abhiman gently guided Jeevika to the center of the dance floor, and a soft, romantic melody began to play.

The song was one of those timeless classics, filled with a gentle romance that seemed to perfectly encapsulate the essence of their new life together. As the first notes drifted through the room, Abhiman pulled Jeevika close, their bodies moving together in a slow, intimate dance.

Jeevika felt a rush of warmth as she rested her head against his chest. The softness of his breath, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, and the way he held her made the world outside seem to fade away. The anxiety she had felt earlier melted into a quiet, comforting peace. The crowd seemed distant, as if they were in their own little bubble of tranquility.

As they swayed to the music, Abhiman’s hand gently rested on the small of her back. His touch was both reassuring and tender. Jeevika looked up at him, and their eyes locked. The connection between them deepened, and she could see the sincerity and warmth in his gaze.

For a moment, everything else fell away—her past, her fears, the presence of her stepmother and stepsister. It was just the two of them, sharing this precious, intimate moment. Jeevika realized that while the journey ahead might be fraught with challenges, this night was a beautiful beginning.

Veer watched from the side with a broad smile, nudging Meera and exchanging a knowing look. Their playful teasing had softened into genuine happiness for the couple. The guests watched the dance with appreciation, some even joining in with soft applause as the song continued.

When the song came to an end, Abhiman gently guided Jeevika to a graceful finish. He looked down at her with a smile that spoke of both relief and joy. “You were amazing,” he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jeevika’s cheeks flushed with a mixture of happiness and shyness. “Thank you,” she replied, her voice equally soft.

As they stepped away from the dance floor, the applause from the guests was warm and encouraging. Jeevika felt a new sense of belonging, a glimpse of the happiness that could be hers. Though the night was still young and many more traditions awaited, this moment had given her a sense of hope and connection.

The reception continued with laughter, music, and joyful conversations. Jeevika found herself gradually relaxing, allowing the evening to unfold naturally. With Abhiman by her side and the support of her family, she began to embrace the happiness that was slowly but surely becoming a part of her new life.

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