He Hates Me Or Does He?

PART 43: THE DREAD

The wedding was finally over. After a week of chaos, rituals, and relatives, this dinner party was the last of it. With that, the madness would finally end.

I slept in until late morning, my body aching with exhaustion. The constant smiling, the endless greetings, and the emotional strain had drained every bit of energy I had left. But tonight was the final event—an intimate dinner for the bride and groom’s closest families. After that, I could finally breathe again. I could start planning how to quietly piece my reputation back together and find a way to expose the truth—without dragging my father into it.

I’d been trying to collect evidence. Something to prove I hadn’t lied. Something that showed what Aadarsh had done to me. But it was dangerous territory. If I exposed too much, I risked hurting people I loved. And I didn’t know if I was willing to do that—not yet.

Anjali di had booked the central library’s lawn for tonight. A quiet place, away from the wedding hall madness. Just close family, a handful of cousins, and no unnecessary guests.

In the afternoon, Sanjana di called to ask what I planned to wear. I told her I hadn’t decided. After a few minutes of scrolling through my wardrobe, I chose a simple yet elegant black V-neck dress. It was formal but understated—perfect for the night.

The rest of the day passed quietly. I ate light, rested more, and tried to push the gnawing anxiety aside.

By the time I arrived, the lawn looked magical. Soft white and cool blue lights draped across the trees. Tables were arranged neatly, warm yellow bulbs glowing above them. The evening breeze felt like a small comfort.

I spotted Sanjana di and ran to hug her. Our cousins followed, the air suddenly full of laughter and teasing. For a moment, I felt normal. Safe.

My parents were already there, talking with the groom’s family. I gave them a small wave and turned my attention back to my cousins. The moment felt peaceful.

Then I saw him.

Aadarsh sat at a table in the corner, his eyes fixed on me. His gaze didn’t waver. My stomach dropped.

I turned away quickly and sat with Sanjana di, who handed me a cup of coffee. Her presence calmed me. Just then, Vihaan arrived and took the empty chair beside Aadarsh.

Sanjana di nudged me with a grin. “You know, if you get married soon, we could have another celebration.”

I smiled faintly. “Marriage is not on my radar anytime soon.”

“You say that now, but one day…” She trailed off, her smile teasing.

A waiter arrived with appetizers. I reached for a piece of paneer tikka, struggling to cut it with the flimsy fork. Across the lawn, Aadarsh was still staring. My fingers froze mid-motion.

I looked directly at him. “Do you need something?” I asked, voice calm but distant.

He said nothing, just turned away and picked up a piece of crispy corn.

I took a shaky breath. Something felt wrong. He wasn’t just watching me—he was planning something.

Vihaan leaned toward him. “Where were you all day, man?”

“Just stayed in the room. Wasn’t feeling great.”

I tried to dismiss the tension building inside me. He couldn’t know what I had done. I had been careful. I had covered every track. Still, unease lingered.

I turned to Sanjana di. “I need to use the restroom. Want to come?”

She shook her head. “I’m waiting for Pratyush,” she said with a smile, referring to her fiancé.