Layers of Us

Chapter 50

Ram's POV -

From the moment Tripura stepped onto the stage, Ram's world seemed to narrow down to her alone. The way the spotlight danced on her shimmering lehenga, the grace in her movements, and the mischievous smile on her lips - everything about her had him completely transfixed.

He had seen her many times before, but tonight, she seemed like a different person altogether, someone who was unapologetically radiant and out of his reach, even though she was his wife.

When she swayed her hips to "Kajar Mohabbat Wala," Ram couldn't take his eyes off her. His chest swelled with pride - she was his. But then the sight of Rishabh stepping in for "Mehbooba Mehbooba" was like a splash of cold water.

His jaw tightened as he watched Rishabh circle her, matching her steps effortlessly. And then there was Rishi - his playful antics with Tripura during "Laal Genda Phool" made Ram clench his fists. They were too close. Too comfortable.

The thought kept nagging him - why wasn't it him up there with her? He was her husband, yet she seemed so carefree and natural with them. His own insecurities began to bubble up as the crowd cheered for her and her co - dancers. Did she enjoy dancing with them more than she ever would with him?

And yet, he couldn't look away. Her every move, every smile, every turn of her head tugged at something deep inside him. His heart raced when her eyes briefly met his in the crowd, and he swore she smirked, as if she knew exactly how captivated he was. He wanted to grab her, spin her into his arms, and tell the world she was his and only his.

But as the performance went on, jealousy gave way to admiration. Tripura owned the stage with such power and grace that Ram felt like the luckiest man alive. His urge to dance with her only grew stronger with every passing moment. He wanted to match her steps, to feel her hand in his, to hear her laughter up close as they moved together.

By the time the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted in cheers, Ram couldn't sit still anymore. His heart was full - full of love, admiration, and maybe just a little frustration. He promised himself that no matter what, the next time she stepped onto a stage, he would be right beside her, where he belonged.
Because Tripura wasn't just his wife - she was the center of his world, and he was done watching from the sidelines.

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Finally, it was time for Ram to take the stage.

Cousin: "Ram bhaiya, it's your turn now. Show us what you got!"

The moment Ram stepped onto the stage, the crowd roared with excitement. His energy was contagious, and it was clear he was ready to give it his all. All eyes were on him, but Ram's focus was solely on Tripura.

Her smile was warm, but her expression remained unreadable, making his heart race faster.

The lights dimmed momentarily, and then flashed brightly as the music began:

DJ: "This is something special
To all the Paajis and the Parjayiaans
This is Patiala House in it!"

Ram started with a powerful bhangra move, exuding the charm and energy that brought the crowd to life.

Ram:
"Laung da lashkara
Oh baby tera jaan se pyara
Oh baby ainwe chamka dil saada
Ke dekh gaya pyar yeh Patial vi"
With a sharp turn and a grin, Ram pointed to the crowd, engaging them as he sang with swagger.

Ram:
"Ho jab se dil haara
Oh badla main saara ka saara
Oh baby jiven gabru dildara
Oh baby tera yaar yeh Patial vi"
As the beat dropped, the background dancers joined in: