"Married in Her Shadow"

The Reception Night

The Rathore mansion was abuzz with activity, every corner lit up with shimmering lights and decorated with extravagant floral arrangements. The grand hall was a vision of opulence, with cascading chandeliers illuminating the intricate gold and ivory decor. Velvet drapes adorned the walls, while tables were dressed in white linens and silverware, gleaming under the warm glow. The fragrance of fresh roses and lilies filled the air, mingling with the hum of anticipation for the night’s reception party.

Upstairs in one of the mansion’s luxurious suites, Aarohi sat in front of a gilded vanity mirror. She looked at herself, unsure whether she even recognized the woman staring back at her. Draped in a purple lehenga that seemed to hold the night sky within its folds, Aarohi was the picture of regal beauty.

The jewel-toned purple fabric shimmered with every movement, catching the light and throwing delicate reflections of silver. The lehenga was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with intricate embroidery of silver threads forming delicate patterns of blooming flowers and trailing vines. Tiny crystals were sewn into the fabric, making it appear as though Aarohi was wrapped in a galaxy of stars.

The blouse she wore was tailored to perfection, hugging her figure in all the right places. It was heavily embellished with silver stones, yet its elegant design ensured it didn’t overpower the rest of her look. The blouse featured a delicate sweetheart neckline and short sleeves that allowed her jewelry to take center stage.

Her dupatta was sheer and ethereal, a gossamer fabric bordered with intricate silver beadwork. Draped diagonally across her body, it added an air of drama and sophistication to her appearance. At her waist, a silver belt, encrusted with shimmering gemstones, cinched the ensemble together, emphasizing her slender frame.

The jewelry Aarohi wore elevated her entire look to a new level of grandeur. Around her neck hung a magnificent necklace with an oval-cut amethyst stone at its center, surrounded by a cascade of diamonds that sparkled with every turn of her head. Matching earrings dangled delicately from her ears, while her wrists were adorned with layers of silver bangles, some studded with purple gemstones. A delicate maang tikka rested on her forehead, completing the ensemble with a touch of tradition.

Her makeup was a subtle yet powerful statement. Her eyes were the highlight—a smoky effect that brought out the deep, soulful brown of her irises, framed by thick, curled lashes. A soft blush adorned her cheeks, giving her a natural glow, while her lips wore a muted pink that added warmth to her features.

Her short bob, usually unruly and casual, was styled into loose waves. The hairstylist had added volume, letting the curls fall effortlessly, with a few strands framing her face. The combination of her unconventional hairstyle and the grandeur of her attire created a striking balance of modernity and tradition.

As Aarohi sat there, lost in thought, the voices of the hairstylists and makeup artists behind her pulled her back into reality.

"Do you think she knows?" one whispered, leaning closer to another.

"Knows what?"

"About Naina ma’am. How she and Veer sir were...you know..." The voice trailed off into a suggestive tone, followed by soft laughter.

Aarohi stiffened slightly but didn’t turn. She bit her lip, pretending to focus on her reflection.

"Honestly," another chimed in, "Naina ma’am was so elegant. She and Veer sir looked perfect together. It’s hard to imagine anyone else in her place."

"I know, right?" The first one sighed dramatically. "She had such a commanding presence. And that long, luscious hair? Perfect. It’s a shame things ended the way they did."