Chapter 2: The Engagement I Never Chose

I sit on the bed, staring at the red lehenga laid out in front of me. The embroidery shimmers under the soft light, mocking me.

Tomorrow is my engagement.

The thought sends a chill down my spine. No matter how many times I repeat it in my head, it doesn’t feel real. Just yesterday, I was Meera Kapoor, living an ordinary life. And now, I am Meenu Malhotra, the fiancée of Aarav Rathore—a man who will never love me.

I know how this story goes.

Meenu, the real Meenu, was desperate for Aarav’s affection. She chased after him, ignored his coldness, and clung to the fantasy of a love that never existed.

But I am not her.

I don’t want this engagement. I don’t want to stand beside a man who loathes me.

But what choice do I have?

A sharp knock on the door makes me flinch.

"Meenu, open the door," my mother’s voice calls out.

I take a deep breath before standing up and unlocking the door.

Kavya Malhotra steps inside, elegant as ever, her sharp gaze scanning me from head to toe. Her eyes land on the lehenga, and a satisfied smile tugs at her lips.

"Good," she says, walking toward it. "This was specially designed for you. Tomorrow, you’ll wear it and make sure you look perfect."

I swallow the lump in my throat. "Mother, do we really have to rush this engagement?"

Her smile falters, replaced by a look of disapproval. "What kind of question is that?"

I hesitate. "I just think… maybe Aarav doesn’t want this. He never agreed to this engagement."

She sighs, as if speaking to a child who doesn’t understand the world. "Aarav’s feelings don’t matter. This alliance is bigger than personal emotions. You have one duty, Meenu—to secure your place as his wife."

I clench my fists, my nails digging into my palms.

It doesn’t matter what I say. My mother sees love as nothing more than a business deal.

"You’re not a little girl anymore," she continues. "Tomorrow, you will become the future Mrs. Rathore. So, stop overthinking and do what’s expected of you."

She reaches out, cupping my cheek in a way that is almost gentle. But her words feel like chains tightening around my throat.

"Make Aarav fall for you, Meenu. No matter what it takes."

I lower my gaze, forcing a small nod.

"Good girl," she murmurs before walking out, leaving me alone once again.

I release a shaky breath, my eyes burning.

She wants me to please Aarav, to do everything in my power to make him love me.

But I know the truth.

Aarav Rathore will never love Meenu Malhotra.

And tomorrow, I will officially become his fiancée.

A role I never wanted.

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End of Chapter 2

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