Layers of Us

Chapter 41: A request!

The Kapoor Haveli was abuzz with excitement and chaos. Lights were being strung across the courtyard, colorful drapes hung from balconies, and the fragrance of fresh marigolds filled the air.

Preparations for Rishabh's wedding were in full swing, and everyone was caught up in the festive frenzy.

Amidst the vibrant chaos, Tripura's phone buzzed insistently in her pocket.

Stepping aside from the group of women she had been laughing with, Tripura answered the call.

"Hello?" she said softly, walking towards a quieter corner of the haveli.

"Tripura!" came an excited voice from the other end. It was Aman Mehra, a renowned film director and one of her old friends. "Thank God you picked up. Listen, I need you - no, correction - I desperately need you!"

Tripura chuckled. "Aman, slow down! What happened?"

"I'm working on this new song for my film, and I swear, no one can do justice to it but you. I can already see you in every beat, every move. You have to do this, Tripura!"

She hesitated, glancing back at the ongoing preparations. "Aman, you know I'd love to, but there's .... ahmm ... my friend's wedding happening right now. It's chaotic here, and my time is -"

"Please, Tripura. I'm not shooting it in Mumbai. We'll come wherever you are! We'll set up everything there. It's just one song. One song! I'll handle everything else, I promise. You just have to show up and perform. You owe me this one!"

Tripura sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. Aman was one of her closest friends, and the sincerity in his voice was hard to ignore.

After a long pause, she relented. "Alright, Aman. I'll do it."

"Yes! I knew you wouldn't let me down. Ronit will be there too - it's going to be magic, Tripura. I'll text you the details. See you soon!"

The call ended, leaving Tripura feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension.

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Tripura found Ram standing by the balcony, overlooking the courtyard where fairy lights twinkled like stars.

He had a faint smile on his face as he watched his younger siblings running around with wedding props.

"Mr. Kapoor," she called softly.

He turned, his smile fading slightly as he noticed the serious look on her face. "What happened, Tripura? You look worried."

She hesitated for a moment before stepping closer. "I... I received a call from Aman Mehra today. He's shooting a song for his film, and he wants me to be a part of it. They're coming here to Amritsar for the shoot."

Ram raised an eyebrow but said nothing, waiting for her to continue.

"The thing is... for various reasons which you are aware of, I will introduce myself as a family friend during the shoot. Not as your wife."

The words hung heavy in the air between them.

Tripura quickly added, "Mr. Kapoor, you know how it is, between us, right!? We have been hiding this reality since the beginning. I don't want things to get difficult for me.. and for you too... "

Ram held up a hand, silencing her gently. "You don't have to explain, Tripura. I understand."

"You do?" she asked, her voice soft and uncertain.