The Cold Flame

Part 6

Divya exhaled, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in her chest. She peeked at her reflection in the polished floor, imagining herself at the banquet—graceful and composed.

The real challenge, of course, would be surviving the brothers' scrutiny. But for the first time since arriving at the Kazan estate, she felt... maybe a little ready.

Divya stood in front of the mirror one last time, adjusting her kimono and smoothing out her hair. Her makeup was flawless but soft, and the outfit matched the elegance she had been practicing for weeks. She took a deep breath, steadying her nerves. Okay... you've got this. Just follow the rules. Be calm. Stand pretty. Don't talk too much.

She glanced around the room and frowned. "Wait a minute... where did Ayato go?"

Before she could think too much, she bumped into him in the hallway. She looked up, and for a moment, her heart skipped a beat. God... damn. This guy is fine. She shook her head quickly. Don't say it out loud, Divya.

He raised an eyebrow, his sharp gaze catching her staring. "Why are you staring?"

"Oh—uh, nothing! I'm ready. Let's go," she said quickly, brushing it off and walking alongside him.

They arrived at the carriage, and Divya took a seat opposite him, her hands fidgeting in her lap. She stole glances at him as they set off. Nervously, she said, "You... you look... actually nice for once."

He glanced up, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "You too."

Her cheeks warmed. She held onto his arm as the carriage slowed and they climbed the stairs to the estate. Guests greeted them, and Divya forced a polite smile, careful not to speak more than necessary.

Ayato leaned closer, whispering into her ear. "You're doing fine. Just keep doing... nothing. That's all you need to do."

Divya's eyes widened. Oh gosh... he's right next to my ear. So close. Her face flushed, and she gripped his arm just a little tighter.

As they approached the dining room, she froze. Standing tall before them were Ayato's two elder brothers. One's expression was sharp, calculating—he looked like a manipulator. The other radiated raw intimidation, like he'd snap at the slightest mistake. The brothers stared at each other, and Divya's stomach tightened.

She clutched Ayato's arm instinctively. He glanced down at her briefly, then back at his brothers, his expression calm and controlled.

Lord Renzou stepped forward, a smirk on his lips. "And this must be your new... doll?" he said, his voice dripping with implication.

Divya felt a pang of hurt but forced a polite smile. She could only hope it didn't show too much.

Before she could respond, the second brother, Masaki, spoke. "Now, don't be rude to her. She looks... wonderful. Silent, beautiful."

He lifted her hand and pressed a kiss to it, sending a shiver down her spine.

Ayato's expression darkened, and his voice was sharp. "No. She isn't a doll. She is to be my bride. I'm sorry, do you not know what that is? And I prefer if you refrain from touching her."

The brothers exchanged intrigued glances. Divya's fingers tightened around Ayato's arm, grounding him, and he shook himself slightly, refocusing on the moment.

"I... where is Father?" Ayato asked, looking to his brothers.

Renzou and Masaki nodded toward the front. "He is at the head table, two tables to the left. But perhaps you should greet him alone. We can watch her here."

Divya felt herself stiffen, but Ayato placed a gentle hand on hers. "No. She's coming with me."

The brothers exchanged a subtle glance, then stepped aside. Divya exhaled quietly and followed him.

As they approached the head table, Ayato's father rose to greet them. Despite his age, he had a warm, youthful smile. "Ayato, how are you? Are you eating well?"

Ayato bowed respectfully. "Yes, Father. I am well, thank you."

Divya followed his lead, bowing lightly. The father's gaze softened when it landed on her. "And you must be my son's bride. It's a pleasure to meet you, young lady."

She smiled nervously. "It's an honor, sir. Thank you for welcoming me."

He chuckled warmly. "I like you. You are kind and polite—a good addition to the family. Please, join us at the table."

Ayato and Divya seated themselves, her hand brushing lightly against his as they sat. Around them, the banquet began in earnest: laughter, conversation, and the clinking of glasses. Divya felt a strange mix of nerves and excitement, realizing she had survived her first formal encounter with the Kazan family—and maybe even impressed them a little.

As the chatter swirled around them, she glanced at Ayato. He looked... unexpectedly calm, almost proud. She squeezed his arm subtly, a small, unspoken acknowledgment that she had made it through.

The night had just begun, and Divya's journey into the world of nobles, etiquette, and her new life as Ayato's bride was only just starting.