Meera Malhotra's eyes scanned the luxurious ballroom, her gaze lingering on the familiar faces of her parents' friends. She had grown up attending these charity galas, but tonight felt different. Maybe it was the presence of Rudra Rathore, standing across the room with an air of superiority that grated on her nerves.

Their parents, Mr. Malhotra and Mr. Rathore, were best friends, having known each other since their college days. They often hosted joint gatherings, much to Meera and Rudra's dismay. Tonight was no exception – a charity gala that neither of them wanted to attend.

As Meera's eyes met Rudra's, she felt a spark of annoyance ignite within her. Why did their parents insist on forcing them together like this? Couldn't they see that Meera and Rudra were polar opposites, destined to clash? Meera was a free spirit, always speaking her mind and challenging every decision. Rudra, on the other hand, was a traditionalist, adhering to the strict rules of his family's legacy.

Rudra's eyes narrowed as he watched Meera's approach. He had no interest in pretending to be friendly with her, not when their differences were so stark. Meera's carefree attitude was a far cry from the discipline and structure he valued.

"Meera, beta, come meet some of our friends," her mother called out, beckoning her over to a group of acquaintances.

Meera's smile faltered for a moment before she pasted it back on. She made her way over to the group, Rudra falling into step beside her. They exchanged a brief, awkward greeting before Meera launched into a conversation with one of their parents' friends.

Rudra stood back, observing the scene with a mixture of disdain and amusement. Meera was always so quick to charm the people their parents wanted them to impress. But he knew better – he knew that beneath her polished exterior, Meera was just as ruthless and cunning as he was.

As the night wore on, Meera and Rudra found themselves trapped in a series of awkward conversations, their parents hovering over them like chaperones. It was clear that they were expected to put on a united front, at least for the sake of their families' friendship.

But Meera and Rudra had other plans – plans that involved minimal interaction and maximum distance. They had learned to coexist in the same social circles, but that was where their relationship ended. Little did they know, their parents had other ideas, ideas that would soon throw them together in ways they never could have imagined.

"I'm so glad you two are getting along," Mrs. Malhotra said, beaming with pride as she glanced at Meera and Rudra.

Meera's smile never wavered, but Rudra's eyes flashed with annoyance. They were far from getting along – they were barely tolerating each other's presence.

As the evening drew to a close, Meera breathed a sigh of relief. She couldn't wait to escape the confines of the ballroom and Rudra's oppressive presence. But as she turned to leave, she caught Rudra's eye, and for a moment, they just stared at each other, the tension between them palpable.

It was clear that their families' friendship meant nothing to them. All that mattered was their own intense dislike for each other, a dislike that seemed to simmer just below the surface, waiting to erupt into something more.