Beneath The Storm (Completed)

Chapter-71: Laughter Between Shadows

The night stretched on, enveloping the Rajvansh Mansion in a quiet stillness, save for the occasional rustling of leaves outside.

In Avni's room, warm yellow lighting cast a soft glow over the three women-Inaara, Sangeeta, and Avni-engaged in casual conversation.

Their laughter and light chatter filled the space, offering a rare moment of peace after the long and eventful day.

A sudden knock at the door interrupted their conversation.

The maid stepped inside hesitantly, her voice uncertain as she addressed Sangeeta.

"Madam, Prachi madam is refusing to eat dinner. She is demanding her regular meal."

The atmosphere shifted instantly.

The warmth drained from the room, replaced by an air of irritation.

Sangeeta's brows furrowed, Avni let out an exasperated sigh, and Inaara simply lowered her gaze, lips pressing together.

Sangeeta inhaled deeply, her voice calm but firm. "Prepare what she wants."

The maid nodded and left, the soft click of the closing door punctuating the silence that followed.

Avni crossed her arms, her frustration bubbling over.

"Look how shameless she is. She didn't stay back, but she made sure to leave her daughter behind to create drama. Veiled woman's veiled daughter."

Her tone was sharp, laced with contempt.

Sangeeta's reaction was immediate and forceful.

"Avni!" Her voice cut through the room like a whip.

Avni blinked, startled by the sudden reprimand. She turned to her mother, disbelief flashing across her face.

"What, Maa? After everything, you're scolding me? Didn't you see how Bua and Prachi behaved? The way they disrespected Bhabhi?"

Her voice rose slightly, the injustice of it all making her chest tighten.

Sangeeta's expression remained stern.

"To vent your anger on them, will you stoop to their level? Is that what I've taught you?"

Her voice carried disappointment, her sharp gaze holding Avni in place.

"If she misbehaves, will you do the same? I have always told you-no matter what happens, you will never disrespect anyone."

Avni opened her mouth but closed it again, her fingers tightening into fists at her sides.

The frustration simmered, but her mother's words left no room for argument.

She swallowed and gave a small, reluctant nod.

Sangeeta's gaze softened slightly, though her authority remained unwavering.

"I never want to hear this from you again, Avni."