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Laughter and music filled the air, creating a kaleidoscope of sound and colour. Women adorned in vibrant saris and intricate jewellery sat together, their hands delicately painted with intricate henna designs, while the rhythmic beats of dhol reverberated through the night, drawing everyone into a lively dance. Yet, despite the festive ambience, a quiet feeling of weariness simmered beneath the surface.
The vibrant atmosphere was electric as the mehendi and sangeet celebrations unfolded for my best friend, filling the air with laughter, music, and the sweet aroma of marigolds. Twinkling lights adorned the venue, casting a warm glow on everyone dancing joyously, while the occasional crackle of fireworks added a festive backdrop to the festivities. I carefully balanced a tray of lush green mehendi in one hand, its intricate designs promising beauty and celebration, as I descended the stairs, feeling a buzz of excitement. Suddenly, a voice called out from behind, and before I knew it, I collided with a towering figure—an imposing six-foot man, flanked by his friends who seemed more like a gang than companions. The tray nearly slipped from my grasp as I recoiled, but it was too late; his drink splashed onto his blazer, a cascade of liquid betrayal.
"I'm so sorry!" I exclaimed, my cheeks flushing in embarrassment, but his glare was icy, his annoyance palpable.
"I can't tolerate and understand short girls," he snapped, his sharp eyes glinting with disdain. Taken aback, I shot back defiantly,
"What do you mean by short girl?? I'm 5'4!" My voice was laced with indignation as I held his gaze, refusing to back down.
"Proud of it, huh?" he retorted with a smirk that sent a shiver down my spine. "Yes, bastard," I replied hotly, turning on my heel to walk away, but he blocked my path, his demeanour aggressive.
"What did you say?? You—" he began, but before he could continue, one of his friends intervened.
"Leave it, bhai. She is a girl. It's a family function." Relief washed over me as I slipped past them, my heart racing. What a rude man! He had no idea how to treat a lady. The thought of the girl he would eventually marry sent a shiver of sympathy through me—she’d be in for a rough ride. I shook off the encounter as I made my way to Abhira, the tray of mehendi still in my grasp, ready to kick off the festivities. The mehendi and sangeet were about to begin, and I had my performance to prepare for, a heartfelt rendition of "Raat Ko Jab Chand Chamke." With my spirits lifted and the music calling, I was determined to embrace the joy of the night, leaving the rude encounter far behind.
