The warm golden lights from the sangeet hall streamed out through the intricately carved archway, catching in the sequins of Kiara's dupatta as she walked, step by slow step, beside Ruaan. The faint notes of dhol beats and laughter from inside faded into the background like a faraway memory. The real drumbeat was under her skin. The heat was in her cheeks.

Kiara couldn't look up. Not at the gate, not at the ceiling, and definitely not at Ruaan.