Love lies

Chapter 25-dance of love

The truth was out but all was good. Reena was now free. The palace was filled with a buzz of excitement as everyone rushed around, getting things ready for the Kali Puja. 

The evening approached and all was ready for the big puja. Reena was busy getting ready in her stunning red lehenga. It was no doubt that she would steal the spotlight from Rocky today in her amazing look. 

Fatima ma walked in with a hurried expression on her face. "Reena dear are you ready? Everyone is already there" she said and Reena nodded, looking in the mirror one last time before she smiled, leaving with Fatima ma to where the puja would happen. 

They all arrived and Reena was waiting with Fatima ma and the others, eagerly waiting for Rocky's appearance. And there he was wearing a stylish blue suit. 

He began walking down the path, towards the large stairs where the others were waiting and the loud sound of drums echoed everywhere. 

Rocky's eyes searched around the whole crowd, looking for Reena when he spot her, blending seamlessly yet standing out amongst all the vermilion and roses that were scattered everywhere. 

Fatima ma passed the arthi tray to Reena and pushed her to the centre where she froze. All eyes were on her but hers were only fixed on Rocky as he trailed towards her, the signature smirk on his face.

He stood in front of her and Reena gave him a small smile, pinching the tilak between her fingers and gently brushing it across Rocky's forehead. The contact of her hands across his skin sent shivers down his spine. 

Rocky teased, leaning a little closer so he was right by her ear. "You look beautiful" he whispered seductively and Reena gave him a blushy smile, looking down shyly at her feet. 

Rocky took the arthi tray out of her hand and handed it to Fatima ma. He grabbed her hand and walked up the large stairs with her, performing the rituals. The people were glad to see the new future of KGF and their leaders so gracefully handling the rituals unlike Garuda.

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The courtyard of the palace was lit up with oil lamps and fairy lights. The night sky glimmered with stars, and the hum of joyous chatter filled the air. The scent of incense and freshly made sweets wafts around as the people began gathering in small groups.

Reena, busy overseeing the crowd, was completely unaware of what was cooking in everyone's minds. 

"Reena, there you are. Everyone's waiting for you to perform" Vaishnavi said, grabbing her by her arm but Reena stood firm in her place.

 Reena crossed her arms against her chest huffing. "Perform? There is no way I'm performing"

 "Come on, Reena. Its tradition. Someone from the family must give a performance" Revathi ushered her daughter but Reena was adamant, shaking her head.

"But now. I mean i haven't planned anything" Reena argued. 

 "Beti, there is no protocol with this. You do what you can. After all tradition is sharing your talents not about what looks good or not" Fatima ma said and she sighed, contemplating it. 

A little girl tugged on her lehenga, pleading. "Please, Bhabhi. Just one song". Reena looked around at everyone's pleading faces and sighed, finally agreeing. 

Everyone cheered in excitement, clearing the space so she could perform. The record player was brought and the soft hum of music began filling the room. 

All this while Rocky was eagerly watching her, amused to see her dance for the first time. Reena made her way to the centre, her dupatta tied at her waist.