Bound by Fate

"Kuch mulaqatein sirf ek pal ke liye hoti hain, par kuch kahaniyan hamesha ke liye likhi jaati hain."
(Some meetings last only for a moment, but some stories are written forever.)
Enjoy reading<3

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The Gala Begins

The hospital's charity gala was a grand affair. A breathtaking fusion of elegance and culture, the event hall was transformed into a world of shimmering lights, deep red and gold fabrics, and traditional handcrafted decor. Isha's boutique, Kapoor's Creations, had outdone itself.

Guests arrived dressed in their finest-women in exquisite sarees and lehengas, men in tailored suits or regal sherwanis. The air buzzed with conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the occasional burst of laughter.

Aarav, dressed in a crisp black bandhgala, stood near the entrance, scanning the crowd. He wasn't one for social events, but duty called. He was here for the hospital, nothing else.

At least, that's what he told himself.

Because despite his best efforts, his eyes searched for one person.

And then he saw her.

Isha Kapoor.

She walked in like she owned the place-wearing an emerald green saree that draped around her like liquid silk, her wavy hair cascading over one shoulder, silver jhumkas swaying as she moved. She looked stunning, and for a second, Aarav forgot to breathe.

She was talking to someone, laughing-completely in her element. And yet, when her gaze met his across the room, something flickered in her expression. Something unspoken.

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Isha's POV

I hated to admit it, but the gala was turning out better than I had expected. The boutique's designs were getting attention, and the hospital's cultural initiative was being praised. Business deals, donations, and connections were flowing seamlessly.

But my mind? It wasn't on the event.

It was on the man standing near the entrance, watching me.

Aarav Malhotra.

I wasn't sure what had changed, but over the last few weeks, something had shifted between us. The constant avoidance had been replaced by subtle glances, unsaid words, and-dare I say it-mutual understanding.

And yet, he still kept his distance.

I sighed and turned back to my conversation with a designer when a sudden hush spread through the crowd.

A moment later, the reason became clear.

A tall, stunning woman in a deep red gown entered the hall-her confident stride commanding attention.

Dr. Nisha Mehta.

I clenched my jaw. Of course.

---

Aarav groaned inwardly. Just when he thought he'd have a quiet evening, Nisha showed up.

She made her way toward him, flashing a knowing smile. "Aarav," she said smoothly, "I didn't think you'd be here alone."

"I'm here for work," he replied, keeping his tone neutral.

She pouted. "Such a shame. An event like this deserves a date, don't you think?"

Before he could respond, another voice cut in.

"I agree."

Aarav turned-only to find Isha standing beside him, her arms crossed, an unreadable expression on her face.