The chandeliers glittered like trapped stars, casting golden pools of light across the ballroom. Laughter swirled through the air, threaded with music and perfume and the low hum of society’s approval. Mira stood at the center of it all, wrapped in a silk saree the color of rose dawn, every detail chosen to signify celebration, promise, and a future already decided.
But her heart felt like a clenched fist.
She lifted her gaze as guests clapped politely, their smiles trained on her and Kabir—her fiancé, her family’s pride, the man she was supposed to build a life with. Kabir stood tall beside her, handsome and composed, his hand lightly resting at her back as if he already owned the right to guide her.
He looked perfect.
She felt anything but.
Kabir leaned in. “Smile, Mira. Everyone’s
