Beneath The Storm (Completed)

Chapter 46: A Dance of Distance & Closeness

Happy Republic Day 🇮🇳

The bustling mall was alive with the sounds of footsteps, chatter, and the faint hum of a festive tune playing in the background.

Inaara and Navya strolled out of the restaurant, their laughter mingling with the crowd as their bodyguards formed a protective circle around them.

Both women appeared relaxed, their conversation flowing effortlessly.

Just as Inaara reached to adjust her dupatta, she felt a tap on her shoulder.

Turning around, she found Vihaan standing there with his trademark grin, his energy lighting up the space.

"Hiii, Inaara!" Vihaan's voice was cheerful and familiar.

Inaara blinked for a moment, then smiled. "Hyy, Vihaan!"

"And hello, Navya! How are you?" Vihaan's voice softened slightly, his tone oddly sweet as he addressed Navya.

Navya crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow.

"Hello, Mr. Vihaan. I'm good," she replied, her voice clipped, carrying a hint of annoyance.

Inaara smirked, noticing the subtle tension.

Before she could tease Vihaan, a deep voice cut through the moment like a knife.

"Vihaan."

Inaara turned to see Atharv walking toward them, his stride purposeful, his sharp gaze locked on Vihaan.

The air shifted as Atharv approached, exuding authority and composure.

A man walked beside him, his presence less commanding but notable.

Vihaan straightened up, his casual demeanor replaced by a nervous formality.

"Atharv! I saw her here and thought I'd say hello."

Atharv's expression didn't falter as he stood beside Inaara, his hand brushing hers momentarily as if to reassure her of his presence.

His voice was calm but firm. "Vihaan." He turned slightly toward the other man.

"Inaara, this is Mr. Sourav Gupta. Mr. Gupta, meet Inaara Rajvansh, my wife, and her friend, Navya."

Mr. Gupta, a portly man with graying hair and a calculating gaze, extended his hand.

"A pleasure, Mrs. Rajvansh. I've heard much about you. Your photos with Mr. Rajvansh often go viral-your elegance is well-known."

Inaara offered a polite smile, though her fingers tightened around her clutch.

"Hello, Mr. Gupta. The pleasure is mine." She glanced at Navya, who muttered a quiet, "Hello," her tone laced with disdain.

Inaara turned back to Vihaan, raising an eyebrow. "What brings you here, Vihaan?"

Vihaan shifted his weight and rubbed the back of his neck.