Chapter-68: The Hidden Reality

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The evening was set in a grand hall, decorated elegantly for the success party, with lights gleaming and soft music playing in the background. Guests were already mingling, glasses clinking with cheers, and the hum of conversation filled the air. Raj and Neyonika entered, their presence commanding attention as they made their way toward Mahir, Bela, and Vishakha, who stood at the center of the room.

 Raj and Neyonika entered, their presence commanding attention as they made their way toward Mahir, Bela, and Vishakha, who stood at the center of the room

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"Ah, Raj, Neyonika! Good to see you," Mahir greeted, extending his hand warmly.

"Likewise, Mahir," Raj replied, shaking his hand with a firm grip. "It's been a long journey, but here we are."
Neyonika smiled graciously at Bela and Vishakha, exchanging pleasantries. The tension between Vishakha and Neyonika was palpable, but both women maintained their composure, acknowledging each other with polite nods.

Manik stood off to the side, his eyes scanning the crowd anxiously. He was waiting, searching for one face that hadn't arrived yet. Cabir, noticing Manik's impatience, nudged him playfully.

"Relax, man," Cabir whispered, leaning in close. "I just spoke to Navya, and she said they're on their way. Don't worry."

Manik nodded, but his heart raced with anticipation. His eyes darted back to the entrance every few seconds, hoping to catch a glimpse of Nandini. Mukti and Alya had gathered around Bela and Vishakha, discussing the upcoming fashion show they were organizing.

"Our next show is going to be bigger than ever," Mukti said with enthusiasm. "We've got some incredible designs lined up, and the response has already been overwhelming."

"I've seen the previews," Bela chimed in. "You two have outdone yourselves. It's going to be a huge success."

Vishakha nodded in agreement, though her attention was divided. Her eyes occasionally flickered toward the door, knowing Nandini would be arriving soon. A sense of dread crept up on her, but she took a deep breath, reminding herself of Bela's words earlier in the day.

"Just for today, Vishakha. Let's get through tonight," Bela had advised gently.

Vishakha had reluctantly agreed, though the thought of Manik and Nandini together still caused her heart to twist. She wasn't ready to face the reality of their relationship, but for tonight, she would keep her composure. She had to.

At that moment, the doors swung open, and Navya walked in with Nandini by her side. Nandini looked radiant in a beautiful red gown that flowed elegantly around her, her hair cascading over her shoulders. Her eyes immediately locked with Manik's across the room, and for a moment, everything else faded away. The noise of the crowd, the conversations, the clinking glasses - it all disappeared as they stared at each other with longing eyes.

Manik's breath hitched at the sight of her, and his heart pounded in his chest. She looked stunning, and the soft smile playing on her lips made him feel like the luckiest man in the world. Nandini, on the other hand, felt her nerves settle as soon as she saw him. His presence grounded her, making her feel safe, even in the chaos around them.

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