Page 149 of Scandalous Games

Whatever it is, it shuts Rosa right up, leaving Iris and me gaping with our jaw slack. Even scarier is the blush darkening our moody friend’s cheeks.

Yep. Black magic it is.

I blink when Nova aims his charming smile at me and says, “Congratulations on the nuptials, Bianca. I have to admit, I didn’t see it coming after the last time.”

Suddenly, I recall that he witnessed the scene at the club when I ran into Dash. Not flustering under his intense gaze, I shrug and reply, “The heart wants what it wants.”

“Indeed.” Still holding our friend captive, he informs us, “I’m going to steal my fiancée, if you don’t mind.”

“Well, I mind,” snaps Rosa.

“Nobody asked.”

Nodding at Iris and Nathan, he pulls Rosa after him until she has no choice but to follow. She gives me an apologetic smile over her shoulder. Nathan, who was quiet until now, smiles warmly at me. He looks ravishing in his all-black three-piece suit that does nothing to hide his ample muscles.

“Congratulations, Bianca.”

“Thanks, Nathan.”

Everyone knows Nathan as the good and perfect son of the Singhania clan, unlike his older brother, Kian, who is the black sheep of the family. He is ever the gentleman, charming and following in his father’s footsteps. However, considering he’s Nova’s best friend, I know he couldn’t be as flawless as the media paints him.

Nevertheless, he adores the world of Iris and it’s enough reason for me to trust him. Just then, she lightly smacks him on the arm and scolds, “Why didn’t you warn me about Nova?”

His lips curve to the side. “Just like you warned me about Rosa?”

“I just found out.”

“Mhmm… Dance with me.”

“But Bee—”

“Go on, Iris.” I wave her away. “I have to meet my parents anyways.”

As I glance around the grand room, I’m taken aback by the stunning decorations. The chandeliers hang from the ceiling. The stage, adorned with thousands of flowers to provide a gorgeous backdrop. Elegantly dressed men and women mingling and enjoying themselves around the vast room. Few, including my friend and Nathan, dancing while a live band plays soft acoustic music.

My parents really went all out for this party. Extravagant and over the top. Except I know it’s another act to show off their wealth to their friends, our extended family, and business rivals. You know, to make up for the fact that their daughter eloped and had a private court marriage.

They don’t realize it’ll only feed the gossipmongers.

These are the people I’ve grown up around, yet I wouldn’t trust any of them. Few rush to my side and congratulate me, and I give them a polite smile with a thank you. I’m so glad I didn’t choose a heavy dress to wear. Otherwise, I’d be limping like a duck. I honestly just want to survive the next couple of hours without any drama. And if luck isn’t on my side, then thank fuck there’s alcohol.

Among the throngs of people, I search for Dash, but he’s nowhere to be seen. Probably mingling with the guests since he has also invited a few of his colleagues. I think I even glimpsed Kian, which is a surprise since he never comes to these gatherings.

As I gaze at the familiar faces, I hate to think Dash has no family remaining, which makes me wonder if he’s still in touch with Niall and his mother. Did he keep in touch with them after the death of his father? The urge and curiosity to ask about them always strikes me, but I hold my tongue. His relationship with them was complicated and tumultuous enough. I don’t want to touch any bad nerves, which I unknowingly end up doing.

Maybe he’ll tell me on his own.

“Bianca beta.” My mom emerges out of nowhere, intent glimmering in her eyes. Grabbing my hand, she pulls me in the direction she came from. “Come on, there’s someone I want you to meet.”

“Have you seen Dash, Ma?” It’s been almost an hour since I left him in the hallway. I especially begin to worry when there’s no glimpse of my father either. “Where’s Dad?”

“They are both together. Your father is introducing him to his friends.”

Before I can interrogate her further, we come to a halt in front of one of her longtime friends. Mr. and Mrs. Patel are our neighbors and they have an export business. They are actually one of the nicest couples I’ve met and have practically seen me grow up. Beside them, I notice their tall son, whose name I can’t recall, but last I checked, he was studying abroad.

“Namaste, Aunty.” I face Mr. Patel before greeting. “Uncle.”

“Oh my god! Look at you, Bianca,” Mrs. Patel praises before wrapping me in a warm hug, her bangles clanking softly as she pulls back. “Just as beautiful as I remember.”

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