Shadows Of Darjeeling

Chapter 19

Chapter 19

Amira stood in front of the mirror, running a hand down the smooth fabric of her black dress. It was elegant and daring at the same time, with a deep neckline that was balanced perfectly by the soft, flowing fabric. Gold jewelry-hoop earrings, a pendant necklace, and a bracelet-added a touch of warmth, and her gold heels matched the accents flawlessly. She couldn't help but admire herself in the mirror. Tonight, she felt different-confident, even.

Alana and Rachel were getting ready as well. Alana wore a royal blue dress that clung to her figure with a playful elegance, the shade complementing her dark hair perfectly. Her gold jewelry gleamed in the light, and her smile was wide, ready for the night ahead. Rachel was no less stunning, in a deep emerald green dress with a sleek silhouette. Her silver jewelry glimmered as she adjusted her hair, which cascaded down in loose curls.

"You both look amazing," Amira said, glancing from one to the other. "This night is going to be so much fun."

Rachel shot her a grin. "You look incredible, Amira. Boys won't be able to take their eyes off you."

Amira raised an eyebrow. "I don't even know Anyone that well."

Alana grinned, clearly amused. "You will. Trust me, they are  impossible to miss."

Rachel nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly. You won't have any trouble spotting him."

Amira rolled her eyes but smiled. "I'm not really here for that, you know."

"Of course not," Rachel teased, but her eyes sparkled with excitement. "But you'll see what I mean when we get there."

As they made their way to the party, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The venue was an impressive mansion, a grand display of wealth and power. The entrance was adorned with twinkling lights, and the sound of music filtered through the doors. When they stepped inside, Amira was taken aback by the extravagance of it all. The place was massive-lavish chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, gold and silver accents everywhere, and people dressed in their finest. It was the kind of world she had never really been a part of.

Before they could move deeper into the crowd, Amira spotted Mihir by the entrance, chatting with a group of students. His black tuxedo was impeccable, and his confident posture made him stand out. Mihir, like Rachel, came from one of the elite families in the city. It wasn't surprising to see him here.

"Mihir!" Rachel called out, waving her hand.

Mihir turned, flashing a charismatic smile. "Ah, if it isn't the three most beautiful girls in the room." His eyes lingered on Amira, and he gave her an appreciative look. "Amira, you look absolutely stunning."

Amira flushed slightly at the compliment but kept her response simple. "Thank you."

Alana nudged Rachel with a grin. "Looks like Mihir's got a soft spot for Amira."

Rachel raised an eyebrow. "He's always like this. Don't read too much into it."

Mihir, oblivious to their exchange, continued, "I'm sure we'll catch up later. Enjoy the night, girls." He turned back to his group, flashing them one last charming smile.

The three girls exchanged glances, and Amira couldn't help but laugh. "He's always so smooth, isn't he?"

Rachel rolled her eyes but smiled. "He's harmless. Let's focus on the party. I'm on a mission to find Naman."

"And I'm on a mission to find Adi," Alana said, practically vibrating with excitement. "I have to spot him first."

Amira's eyes narrowed slightly as she scanned the crowd. As Rachel and Alana moved ahead, already on the hunt for Naman and Adi, Amira felt her attention shift elsewhere. She wasn't looking for a boy to catch her attention; instead, her eyes roamed the room, searching for a face she couldn't quite get out of her mind.