CHAPTER 12: The Dinner Party

The night of the dinner party was a spectacle. it was something people would really have a chance to see , the Chandeliers bathed the Malhotra dining room in a soft golden glow, illuminating the ornate table adorned with crystal glasses and intricate floral arrangements. The atmosphere was as meticulously curated as the guest list, a mix of Arjun's business partners, old friends, and family members.

Meera, draped in an emerald-green saree chosen by Shalini, moved through the room with a grace she didn't entirely feel. Her heart raced with the weight of expectations, her every move scrutinized by the watchful eyes of the Malhotras' elite circle.

Arjun was by her side, his demeanor calm and controlled. Though his hand occasionally brushed hers, a silent reminder of their united front, there was no mistaking the distance between them.

As the first course was served, Meera found herself seated next to Aditya, whose easygoing charm did little to mask his curiosity.

"You handled tonight's pressure well," he said, his tone light but probing.

"Thank you," Meera replied, forcing a smile.

"You know," Aditya continued, swirling the wine in his glass, "Arjun is lucky to have someone like you. Most people would've cracked under the spotlight by now."

Meera raised an eyebrow. "What makes you think I haven't?"

Aditya laughed, but there was something in his expression that suggested he wasn't entirely joking. "Fair point. But if you ever need someone to talk to—someone who's not part of this circus—you know where to find me."

Before Meera could respond, Ishani's voice cut through the room. "Aditya, stop monopolizing my bhabhi. She has other people to charm tonight."

Meera shot Ishani a quick glare but allowed herself to be drawn into another conversation. The rest of the evening passed in a blur of polite small talk and forced laughter.

As the final guests departed, Meera let out a sigh of relief. The night had gone off without any major mishaps, but she felt utterly drained.

"You did well," Arjun said as they stood in the empty dining room, his voice devoid of emotion.

"Thanks for the encouragement," Meera replied, her sarcasm masking her exhaustion.

Arjun's lips quirked in what might have been a smile, but he said nothing more as he turned and walked away.

For a brief moment, Meera allowed herself to wonder: beneath his cold exterior, was there any part of Arjun that truly cared?

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Authors Note :

Please leave a like and comment if you like the story . And let me know how you want the story to progress. And I am sorry for not posting this regularly I was busy with exams and all but now I promise I will upload more chapters regularly. Please give me love.

this is my first novel .

XoXo

Anonymously Yours ✨

(echoedverse)

A a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a

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