Aroha's POV
The sky was painted in shades of gold as the sun dipped behind the city's edge. I adjusted the dupatta on my head, walking quietly behind Ammi as we entered the luxurious wedding hall. I didn't belong here. Not with my simple dress, not with my quiet ways. But Ammi had insisted I attend her friend's daughter's wedding.
I kept my gaze low, not wanting to draw attention. The laughter, the shimmer of chandeliers, the scent of roses — it all blurred around me. Until I felt it.
Eyes. Watching me.
I looked up for just a second. And that's when I saw him.
Tall. Sharp suit. Cold eyes. Power in the way he stood, like he didn't need to speak to be obeyed. His presence sucked the air out of the room. And he was looking straight at me.
My heartbeat stuttered. I looked away, but I could feel his gaze following me. Like a shadow I couldn't shake.
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Hassam's POV
I didn't come here for company. I came to show face — make a statement. In my world, absence means weakness.
Then I saw her.
A girl in a pale blue dress. Head lowered, not out of fear — out of grace. There was something in the way she moved, quiet but proud.
She didn't know who I was. That made it even more dangerous. Because I wasn't supposed to want. Not her. Not anyone.
But I did.
And in my world… what I want, I take.