Starlite Affair

3. The Hectic Life

NAVYA'S POV

The November air carried a hint of festivity, blending with the scent of freshly bloomed marigolds, a staple for Indian weddings. I stood in my studio, my heart racing with equal parts excitement and nervousness. My new bridal collection, designed meticulously over the past six months, was now out in the world. It wasn't just a collection; it was my vision, my labor of love, my dream brought to life on silk, velvet, and organza.

"This is it," I whispered to herself, brushing my fingers lightly over a lehenga that shimmered under the soft golden light of thd studio. The intricate embroidery, the delicate beadwork, every pleat, every stitch-it all spoke of a timeless elegance.

The campaign had launched a week ago, and the designs were already turning heads. Social media was ablaze with praise from influencers, celebrities, and brides-to-be. But I knew the double-edged sword that came with online visibility. Amidst the admiration, there were always whispers of criticism, and she dreaded scrolling through comments to find negativity.

"I just hope they see the effort," I muttered, pulling the shawl tighter around my shoulders.

My brand had always been about balance. Though known for catering to elite clientele, I ensured my collections included pieces that were accessible to everyone. Fashion wasn't meant to be exclusive-it was meant to make people feel extraordinary.

As I scrolled through my phone, checking updates about the collection, my thoughts drifted to Aadhya. If anyone understood my stresses and triumphs, it was her. Aadhya had a knack for knowing what I needed before I even realized it myself.

"She's my Mehta Saab," I often joked, referring to the wise problem-solver from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. "Whoever marries her will be the luckiest man alive."

A knowing smile played on her lips as she thought about Ishaan, Aadhya's partner . "He hit the jackpot with her," she mused, chuckling softly.

After all the designs were and launched I was just craving a moment of peace, a break from the chaos of the fashion world. Aadhya's suggestion to attend a three-day yoga retreat couldn't have come at a better time. "You need it," Aadhya had insisted. "Recharge, reset, and then conquer the world."

And conquer the world I would. After the retreat, I had a monumental task ahead: preparing for an international fashion show in Rome. The theme, Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion, was both a challenge and an inspiration. It was about breathing life into vintage aesthetics and creating something fresh, something magical.

The retreat was everything I needed. Nestled in the lap of nature, the camp offered her a sanctuary to clear her mind. Each sunrise brought meditation sessions, and every evening ended with soulful conversations around a bonfire. The three days flew by, but they left me rejuvenated, ready to dive back into my craft.

Two months of meticulous planning followed. Sketches, fabric selections, late-night calls with her team-it was a whirlwind. But I thrived in the chaos. By the time I boarded the flight to Rome, I felt confident.

The fashion show was a triumph. The audience was mesmerized by my creations, each piece weaving a story of rebirth and resilience. The designs didn't just turn heads; they touched hearts.

Standing on the grand stage in Rome, with applause echoing around her, I felt a surge of gratitude. This was what I had worked for, dreamed of. But even in that moment of glory, a part of me longed to return home, to my roots, to the people who kept me grounded.

The day after my return to India, as I sipped her morning coffee, my phone buzzed. It was Aadhya.

"Urgent," the text read. "Meet me as soon as possible."

I frowned, concern flickering in my eyes. Aadhya was rarely this abrupt. Finishing my coffee in one swift gulp, I grabbed her bag and headed out. Whatever it was, I knew one thing for sure-Aadhya would never call her unless it was truly important.

Well that's it for this chapter
Stay tuned for the next part