DIVYA
I paced back and forth in my living room, my eyes darting to the clock every few seconds. The minutes were dragging, and my frustration was growing with each tick. My fingers fidgeted restlessly, beads of sweat forming on my forehead. Each breath felt heavier than the last, the suffocating weight of anxiety pressing against my chest. I rubbed the spot over my heart, trying to calm the erratic rhythm, but it was no use. The silence of the room only amplified my panic.
Suddenly, the shrill ring of the doorbell shattered the stillness. Startled, I rushed to the door, flinging it open. My breath hitched as I gasped, "Oh, thank God you're finally here! I thought you weren't coming."
Vaani stood on the threshold, frowning at my words. Without a word, she brushed past me, making her way into the apartment with an air of indifference. I quickly shut the door behind her, trying to steady myself.
"Why would you even think that? I told you I'd be here," she said, tossing her bag on the couch, her tone slightly irritated.
"You're half an hour late, Vaani!" I shot back, exasperation creeping into my voice.
She rolled her eyes and waved a dismissive hand. "Oh, come on. It's New York traffic. You should be used to it by now. Besides, celebrities are fashionably late all the time. Why are you freaking out?"
"Vaani, for once, could you take this seriously?" I groaned, running a hand through my hair. "I need to get ready quickly, or we'll miss the event."
"Alright, alright, chill out," she sighed dramatically, heading towards my bedroom with a few shopping bags in tow.
I let out a long, weary sigh and rubbed my temples in frustration. If my secretary, Nancy, hadn't been on leave, I wouldn't have had to rely on Vaani, of all people. She's such a headache. How she manages to be a leading model with her flippant attitude is beyond me. The thought of attending this prestigious award ceremony unsettled me, but going alone felt even worse. Diya had been my first choice, but she was tied up with work, leaving me with no other option but to drag Vaani along because she was the only free today.
I just hope tonight goes smoothly. I wasn't sure if I'd win the New York Canvas Award, but the experience alone was monumental. This event could change so much for me.
"Divya! Hurry up! Are you planning to be late for your own award show?" Vaani's impatient voice snapped me out of my thoughts.
With a deep breath, I hurried into the bedroom, silently praying that the rest of the night wouldn't spiral into chaos.
As I entered the bedroom, I saw two gorgeous dresses laid out on the bed. One was a sleek white gown, and the other, a bold red. Vaani had picked them out for me since my wardrobe lacked a proper evening gown, and with the event only hours away, I had no time to shop.
"Which one?" Vaani asked, motioning towards the dresses.
"Huh?" I blinked, caught off guard by her question.
"Pick a dress. I already chose the best ones. Normally, I'd pick for you, but I know you'll complain later if you're uncomfortable," she teased. "Hurry up."
I stared at the dresses, indecisive. "I don't know, Vaani. I'm not used to going to events like these, so I have no clue what to choose. You pick, and I swear, I won't complain," I said nervously.
She sighed, eyeing me for a moment. "The white one. It'll look stunning on you." She handed me the dress before practically shoving me into the bathroom.
I sighed, glancing down at the dress in my hands as I stepped inside. But one look in the mirror, and I gasped. I looked like a complete mess-my hair was sticking to my face from sweat, and my skin appeared dull and tired. There was no time for a full shower, so I washed my face quickly, hoping it would help me look a little more refreshed.
Once I slipped into the gown, I had to admit, it was gorgeous. The one-shoulder design hugged my figure perfectly, with a slit that showed just enough of my legs and a tasteful cutout at the waist. The delicate belt at my waist completed the look. Vaani definitely knew fashion better than I did.
When I walked out of the bathroom, I found Vaani had changed into a black shimmering evening gown. "How do I look?" she asked with a playful grin.
"Stunning," I replied, smiling.
"You look like an angel," she said, winking at me. My cheeks warmed at the compliment as she led me to sit in front of the mirror and began doing my makeup. She kept it simple yet elegant, finishing with a neat bun adorned with delicate pearls. I opted for the diamond earrings Diya had gifted me last year, their subtle sparkle a perfect match for the gown.
"Here are your heels," Vaani said, placing a pair of high heels in front of me. The heels were beautiful, but they were high-higher than I was used to. A flicker of anxiety crossed my face.
"Don't worry, you've got time to practice walking in them before we leave. You'll be fine," Vaani reassured me, sensing my nervousness.
I nodded, slipping them on and grabbing my white clutch, making sure to tuck my phone and house keys inside. While I paced around the room, adjusting to the heels, Vaani finished her look. Her smoky eye makeup and sleek bun made her look every bit the glamorous model she was.
"Alright, let's go," she said once she was ready. I locked the apartment before following her out.
As we stepped out of the building, I spotted Vaani's black Maybach parked outside. She slid into the driver's seat, and I quickly followed suit, settling into the passenger seat. The drive was quiet, my nerves too overwhelming for small talk, while Vaani remained focused on the road.
Soon, we arrived at the venue, and my stomach twisted as I saw the sea of paparazzi crowding the entrance. Flashing lights, cameras, and shouting-it was all so overwhelming. I swallowed hard, the nerves bubbling up again.
"I'm nervous," I muttered under my breath.
"I know," Vaani replied calmly, giving my sweaty hand a reassuring squeeze. "But don't worry. You've got this."
She glanced at me with a soft smile. "This is new now, but you're a rising star, Divya. You'll get used to it."
I nodded, taking a deep breath. "Let's go."
With that, Vaani stepped out of the car, and I followed. Instantly, the paparazzi swarmed, bombarding us with flashing lights and a barrage of questions. The sudden rush of attention made me dizzy, but Vaani remained composed, walking gracefully as the guards escorted us through the chaos and into the venue.
As the heavy doors shut behind us, blocking out the madness of the cameras, I finally allowed myself to exhale. The night had only just begun, and I had no idea what to expect-but for now, at least, I'd made it inside.
The event is taking place at The National Art Club was breathtaking, a perfect blend of history and elegance, the kind of place that spoke of grandeur the moment you stepped through the doors. The high, vaulted ceilings stretched above us like a cathedral, adorned with intricate moldings that seemed to tell stories of artists long gone. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, casting a soft, golden light that bathed the entire room in a warm glow, like we were standing inside a masterpiece ourselves.
The décor was a work of art in its own right. Long, sweeping drapes in deep burgundy and gold lined the walls, the fabric heavy and luxurious, adding a regal touch to the space. Each table was a vision of sophistication-dressed in satin tablecloths that shimmered under the candlelight, set with fine china that looked almost too delicate to touch. Fresh arrangements of white lilies, roses, and greenery spilled out of elegant glass vases, their soft fragrance weaving through the air, subtle but unmistakable.
The bar area was framed by tall, gold-framed mirrors, reflecting the lively buzz of the crowd. The bartenders moved with an effortless grace, pouring sparkling wine into crystal flutes, their movements almost choreographed, as though they were part of the art around them.
Soft music floated through the air, the sound of a string quartet tucked away in the corner, their melodies delicate and refined, blending perfectly with the hum of conversation. The guests themselves were just as polished as the venue-dressed in evening gowns and tailored suits, they moved with a kind of effortless grace, their laughter light and polished.
I sighed in relief as I noticed the event hadn't started yet. Vaani and I found our seats, and soon after, drinks were served. I glanced at Vaani, who, as usual, appeared calm and composed, the picture of grace. Of course, she was used to this-being a model, she had likely attended countless events like this one. Meanwhile, I could feel the nervous energy bubbling inside me.
"Look at the man to your left," she whispered suddenly, her voice low but pointed.
Instinctively, I turned my head directly to the left, only to hear her hiss, "Divya!"
I snapped my gaze back to her, confused. "What?"
"I didn't mean to look at him directly!" she grumbled under her breath, frustrated.
"But you told me to look at him," I protested softly.
Vaani sighed heavily. "What I meant was to look at him discreetly, not like you're staring him down!" she explained, as if that made perfect sense.
I raised an eyebrow at her in question. Seriously? If she wants me to look at a man, why not just look openly? Is it some crime now to glance at someone?
"He's been looking at you for a while now," she continued in a more hushed tone. "He seems... interested."
"So?" I replied nonchalantly, taking a sip of my champagne.
"He's wearing an Armani suit and a Breguet watch. He's handsome and clearly rich." She eyed me, waiting for some sort of reaction.
"And?" I raised an eyebrow again, unimpressed.
Vaani glared at me. "If you keep up this attitude, you'll be single for the rest of your life," she muttered under her breath, clearly exasperated.
I chuckled softly and shook my head. The thought didn't bother me in the slightest. Honestly, I didn't mind waiting for the right man to come along, no matter how long that took. I wasn't about to rush into anything just because someone had a fancy suit or a pricey watch.
Before Vaani could launch into another lecture about my lack of enthusiasm, the host finally announced the start of the event. I silently thanked the universe for the perfect distraction, eager to escape her playful yet relentless matchmaking attempts. This event was big enough to handle without adding Vaani's nonsensical chatter into the mix.
The event passed by in a blur, each award blending into the next, until the moment I had been waiting for finally arrived. My breath caught as the host's voice filled the room once more.
"And now, the final award of the evening, the prestigious New York Canvas Award, goes to..." The pause that followed seemed to stretch on forever. I felt Vaani's reassuring hand squeeze mine. My heart raced as I crossed my fingers, praying silently.
"Divya Aggarwal!"
A gasp escaped my lips. I couldn't believe it-I'd actually won! Vaani elbowed me gently, urging me to move. With shaky legs, I stood, taking a deep breath as I made my way to the stage.
As I climbed the stairs, the host's voice echoed in my ears, "The award will be presented by Mr. Raghav Sinha." I froze for a split second. Raghav? Here?
I glanced up and there he was, walking towards me with that familiar, unreadable expression. He looked regal in his tailored royal blue suit, every inch the powerful, confident man he always appeared to be. My heart skipped a beat as he approached. His gaze locked onto mine with an intensity that sent a thrill through me.
He handed me the award with a polite smile, his grey eyes never leaving mine. His touch was warm as his hand briefly rested on my waist, sending an unexpected shiver down my spine. For a moment, the world faded away. The noise of the crowd, the lights, everything-all I could feel was the heat of his hand and the rush of emotions swirling inside me. I was suddenly all too aware of how close we were, and it made the air in the room feel stifling despite the coolness of the air conditioning.
"You look beautiful. Congratulations," he whispered, his voice low and smooth. His words made my cheeks flush, and I hoped no one could see the effect he had on me.
Before I could fully process it, the host handed me the microphone. I took it, but my mind was still spinning, clouded by thoughts of Raghav. As I turned to speak, I caught a glimpse of him walking offstage, leaving me feeling oddly empty.
The host cleared his throat, snapping me back to the present. I looked out at the audience, scanning unfamiliar faces, and then spotted Vaani cheering me on. A bittersweet sadness crept in-shouldn't there be more people here for me? Family? Loved ones? I had none of that. The realization hit me hard, and I swallowed back the emotion rising in my throat.
"I... I don't really know what to say," I laughed nervously, and the audience joined in with soft chuckles.
"First of all, I'm beyond honored to receive such a prestigious award," I continued, my voice steadying. "I'd like to thank my elder sister and my friends for always supporting me. This award is for her, my sister, who's been my constant source of strength. Without her, I wouldn't be standing here today. Thank you."
With that, I hurried off the stage, eager to escape the spotlight. My heart was still racing, but not because of the award. I searched the room for him, my eyes scanning every corner, hoping for another glimpse of Raghav. But he was gone. Disappointment weighed heavy on my chest. Why had he left so soon?
I absentmindedly set the award down on our table as Vaani threw her arms around me, pulling me into a tight hug. I barely registered it, too caught up in thoughts of the man with the piercing grey eyes. I couldn't explain it, but I desperately wanted to see him again, to feel that spark between us.
"What's wrong? Are you looking for someone?" Vaani asked, noticing my distraction.
I shook my head quickly, trying to compose myself. "No, I'm just... tired. Let's go."
She nodded, understanding, and with that, we made our way out as the event wrapped up. Vaani drove me home, the ride quiet and reflective. When we arrived, I stepped out of the car, still lost in thought, and signaled for her to roll down the window.
"Thanks for the ride, and I'll return the dress after I get it dry-cleaned," I said, my voice heavy with exhaustion as I lingered at the car window. Vaani waved me off dismissively, her lips curving into a playful smile.
"Don't worry about it. Keep it. Consider it a gift to celebrate your big win," she said, and with that, she drove off, leaving me standing at the curb, watching the tail lights disappear into the night.
I sighed as I stepped into my apartment, kicking the door closed behind me. The quiet was a relief after the whirlwind of the evening. I tossed my purse onto the sofa and gently placed the award on the coffee table. Tomorrow, I'd take it to my gallery, maybe give it a special place. The thought warmed me, but exhaustion clung to my body like a weight.
I slipped out of my heels, feeling the sting in my calves as I massaged them. The ache of the day was setting in. My body craved rest, but my mind wasn't ready to let go yet. I sank onto the edge of my bed, legs dangling over the side, closing my eyes for just a moment.
And there he was.
Raghav's face flashed before me-the soft smile he gave as he handed me the award, the way his eyes lit up, shimmering with pride. Did I imagine that look? Or was he genuinely proud of me? The thought stirred something deep within me, a flutter of hope. What did he think of me now? Was I worthy in his eyes? Did I finally measure up to his world, his standards?
But as quickly as the warmth came, it was crushed under the weight of reality. My chest tightened as the truth sank in, heavy and undeniable. Raghav was like royalty-powerful, untouchable. And I... I was just another face in the crowd, admiring him from afar. He was a king, and I was a mere peasant.
He deserves a queen, someone who can stand beside him, rule his world with him. Someone strong, fearless, who can fight the battles life throws at them. Not someone like me, still struggling to stand up to her own family, let alone the world. No, I wasn't the one for him. I could never be. My feelings were nothing more than a foolish crush, destined to remain unrequited.
A deep sigh escaped my lips as I lay back on the bed, his face still lingering in my thoughts, those piercing grey eyes haunting me as I drifted into sleep.
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