Rishtey

Chapter - 18

Anamika stepped out of her suite, the soft rustle of her dress trailing behind her as she made her way to the grand ballroom. The hotel was abuzz with activity, waiters scurrying with trays of hors d'oeuvres and guests arriving in their finest attire. She paused outside the ballroom, taking a deep breath to calm the slight nervousness bubbling within her. 

Pushing open the heavy double doors, she was met with a sight that took her breath away. The room was dazzling—gold and silver accents adorned the space, crystal chandeliers hung majestically from the ceiling, and the soft hum of classical music created an air of sophistication. 

Raman spotted her immediately and hurried over, a wide smile on his face. "Anamika, you look stunning. Come, let me introduce you to a few people." 

Before she could respond, he was already leading her toward a group of dignitaries and business tycoons. As the introductions began, Anamika slipped effortlessly into her professional demeanor, shaking hands, exchanging pleasantries, and discussing the project with poise and confidence. 

Throughout the evening, she felt herself relax. The environment was warm and welcoming, and she noticed how Raman and Ishita subtly ensured she was comfortable. Every so often, Raman would make a light-hearted joke, easing the formality of the discussions. 

At one point, Roohi, dressed in a beautiful pink gown, ran up to Anamika with excitement. "Anamika Aunty! You came! Papa ne mujhe aapke baare mei bataya toh main aapko kanse dekhna chahti thi." 

Anamika crouched down to her level, a smile lighting up her face. " Awww, Of course, I wouldn’t miss it for the world. You look like a princess tonight, Roohi beta." 

Roohi giggled, her cheeks turning pink. "Thank you! Will you dance with me later?" 

"I’d love to," Anamika promised. 

As the evening progressed, the formalities gave way to more relaxed interactions. Guests mingled, laughter echoed, and the celebratory mood became infectious. Raman took the stage to deliver a speech, his words a perfect balance of professionalism and gratitude. 

"Our success is not just ours," he began, looking out at the crowd. "It belongs to everyone who believed in this vision, especially our collaborators. A special thanks to Anamika and her team for making this dream a reality." 

Applause erupted as he gestured toward Anamika. She felt a flush of pride but managed a gracious smile as the spotlight briefly fell on her. 

Later, true to her word, Anamika joined Roohi on the dance floor. The little girl twirled and laughed, her joy contagious. Other guests joined in, and soon, the floor was alive with energy. For the first time in a long while, Anamika allowed herself to let go. She laughed freely, enjoying the moment without any lingering thoughts of the past. 

Ishita approached her with two glasses of sparkling juice, handing one to her. "You seem to be having a good time." 

"I am," Anamika admitted, taking a sip. "It’s refreshing, really. Thank you for making me feel so welcome." 

Ishita smiled warmly. "You deserve it. Besides, Raman has always spoken highly of you. And seeing Roohi so happy with you—well, that says a lot. Usne aapki pictures tv and magazines mei dekhi hai, she admires you a lot."  She spoke to which Anamika smiles, her heart full of love for the little girl.

As the evening wound down, Raman and Ishita ensured she wasn’t left alone. They accompanied her back to her suite, chatting about future plans for the project. 

Once inside her room, Anamika sank onto the plush bed, a tired but content smile on her face. For the first time in months, she felt a sense of peace—a fleeting but welcome respite from the chaos that had marked her recent days.