Beneath The Storm (Completed)

Chapter-66: A Man in Love

The ballroom shimmered, a sea of sequins and champagne flutes, the air thick with the murmur of conversations and the lilting melody of a live band.

Inaara thought wryly, another page in the bewildering saga of her life with Atharv.

Tonight, however, felt different.
Atharv, usually a distant figure in these social gatherings, was an unwavering presence beside her.

His large hand enveloped her smaller one, their tiny fingers intertwined, a delicate, almost childlike connection that belied the tension simmering beneath the surface.

He was a constant, solid anchor in the swirling chaos of the party.

When he did move, just a few steps to greet a business associate or to retrieve a fresh drink for her, his eyes never left her.

They were a silent, watchful presence, scanning her face for any sign of discomfort or unease.

Inaara, accustomed to being left to navigate these events alone, found herself both surprised and touched by his attentiveness.

It was a novel experience, this feeling of being seen, of being cared for.

He’d ask, his voice a low rumble in her ear, “Are you alright, Inaara? Do you need anything?”

His brow would furrow slightly, a flicker of concern creasing his forehead.

Inaara, typically reserved, found herself almost wanting to laugh, a nervous, delighted sound.

"I'm fine, Atharv," she'd reply, a soft smile playing on her lips.

"Just...fine."

Her feet, encased in elegant but torturous heels, began to ache.

Atharv noticed her subtle shift in posture, the slight wince that she tried to conceal.

"Sit down, Inaara," he said, his voice firm but gentle.

"Your feet must be aching." He guided her to a plush velvet sofa, his hand lingering on her arm, a silent reassurance.

Even the simple act of her going to the restroom was met with his quiet consideration.

He positioned himself a respectful distance away, his back to the door, a silent guardian.

Inaara emerged to find him leaning against a marble pillar, his gaze sweeping the crowd, but snapping back to her the moment she appeared.

His body language was relaxed but alert, a subtle demonstration that he was ready to step in at a moment's notice.

The people around them, the seasoned socialites and business magnates, noticed the shift in Atharv's demeanor.

Whispers rippled through the crowd, curious glances darting in their direction.

Inaara, used to being the invisible wife, felt a strange sense of validation, a quiet acknowledgment of her presence.

The feeling wasn't one of being caged or suffocated.

It was something different, something she couldn't quite define.