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"A night full of, masks and mystery's" ~authormazeen
Welcome to the 21st Chapter... _________________________
AUTHOR'S POV
The grand hall was buzzing with excitement as the host stepped onto the stage, her voice cutting through the chatter like a polished blade. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to tonight's award show!" she announced with a radiant smile. "We have a special treat planned for you all—a unique dance experience we're calling the Masquerade Shadow Swap Dance."
The audience's interest piqued, the host continued, "You'll be dancing with a partner, but here's the twist: every time the whistle blows, you'll swap partners. It's a game of rhythm and surprise! And yes, while we mentioned masquerade, you won't need to worry about your true face being seen. We've got that covered." She gestured toward the ball area. "As you enter, you'll each receive a masquerade mask to hide your identity. So, let's enjoy this night and let the dance begin!"
The guests began to move toward the shadow ball, a sea of anticipation and curiosity. Each guest received a unique mask—colorful, ornate, and shrouded in mystery. Avantika, standing with Ruhi and Armaan, turned to her friends and said, "You two go ahead. I'll catch up soon."
Ruhi, eyes narrowing with concern, replied, "No way, Avantika. I'm not leaving you alone, especially with that bastard Rajveer here."
Avantika knew Ruhi wouldn't relent easily. She gave Armaan a subtle nod, signaling him to intervene. Armaan stepped in smoothly, "Ruhi, come on. Avantika said she needs to use the loo. She'll join us shortly. Let's go." Without waiting for Ruhi to protest further, Armaan gently but firmly guided her away from Avantika.
UNKNOWN'S POV (IT)
The burner phone buzzed with an incoming call. IT answered with a curt, "Yes, she's headed towards the washroom. But he's not following her."
The voice on the other end was urgent. "You need to blend into the crowd. Don't get caught."
"Understood. I'm moving in," IT replied, a sinister grin spreading across their face as they hung up. Donning a mask, IT entered the ballroom, slipping into the sea of masked guests with a chilling calm.
AVANTIKA'S POV
Pills in hand, I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I popped them in my mouth. I dabbed the sweat from my forehead and mouthed a mantra to myself, "Everything is going to be alright. You didn't do anything wrong." My hands gripped tightly, leaving marks as I tried to steady my nerves.
Just then, the washroom lounge door creaked open. I quickly wiped away my tears, turning to see a familiar face. "Avantika, YOU?"
It was Akanksha Dutta, a batch mate I hadn't seen in years. Before I could respond, she enveloped me in a tight hug. "Oh my god, it's really you! How have you been? You vanished without a trace!"
