Strings and Schemes

Chapter 12

A/N: Explicit content.

The following weekend, I head to the flagship store in London, my lengha in tow. Normally, I'd get ready at home, but my parents have signed me up for some PR stunt with the designer, which means hair, makeup, and wardrobe will all be done here.

I ring the doorbell, and Sanobia answers with a warm smile. "Raina, so good to see you."

I return her smile, genuine this time. "You too. Thanks for letting me get ready here—I've never done glam with a designer's team before."

Sanobia waves a dismissive hand. "It's our pleasure, truly. You're going to love the team. They're wonderful—and far less crusty than Mr. Malhotra."

A few hours later, I barely recognize myself. The transformation is stunning—like I stepped straight out of a Bollywood fairytale. I stare at my reflection, wide-eyed.

"I didn't know I could look like this," I whisper.

Sanobia grins. "You're an easy canvas to work with."

Right on time, my driver pulls up, and I carefully make my way to the car, mindful of every inch of fabric. When we arrive at the High Commission for the Friends of India event, I'm immediately aware of just how high-profile this is.Probably the most star-studded diplomatic function I've ever attended.

My pulse quickens when I hear the cameras flashing outside. Deep breaths. I tell myself. Just get through it. One last time.

The door swings open, and a familiar outstretched hand reaches for mine. Liam. I take it, and he carefully helps me out of the limo.

"You look amazing," he says, sounding almost breathless.

I smile. "Thanks for advocating for me."

"Always."

I squeeze his hand lightly. "Are you ready for this?"

He nods, but his eyes stay locked on mine. "I don't think anyone is ready to see how breathtaking you are, Rain."

We step onto the red carpet, every flashbulb aimed directly at us. Liam stays at my side, steady as ever. Louis joins us after his solo pap walk, his usual mischievous expression on full display. He pushes his sunglasses down just enough to glance at me over the rims, then waggles his eyebrows before waltzing over.

"Raina, you are basically a princess." He smirks. "This is the perfect dress."

I nod, smiling. "Let's get some photos before I turn into a pumpkin, yeah?"

We pose for a few more shots before heading inside. The venue is breathtaking—high marble pillars, imported straight from Rajasthan, ceilings draped with marigolds, warm golden lights casting an ethereal glow. It feels like stepping straight into India. I know I must look like a total tourist, taking it all in with wide eyes.

Louis Being... Louis

"Ambassador Addams!" Louis greets my dad like an old friend. "How goes it, pops?"

My father actually laughs—a deep, belly laugh. "Son, you're hilarious. Did you know that?"

Louis lights up, as if he's never been told he's funny before. "Truthfully, I think your daughter forgets just how hilarious I am 90% of the time."

I roll my eyes.

Dressed in a white salwar kameez, black suede shoes, and—of course—his signature sunglasses, Louis looks unfairly attractive. And after a week of feeling like I wasn't myself, maybe he's exactly what I need tonight.