Of course. Because why would fate ever let him be far from me?
No way! I murmur to myself.
Not just my life, now he’s invading my workplace too.
Chapter 12
Reyansh
“You’re much smarter than I expected. This is absolutely perfect.” My mentor, Mr. Raghav Sinha, is meticulously reviewing the balance sheets I dedicated my entire day to preparing, his eyes gleaming with approval.
“Thank you, sir,” I respond, a warm smile spreading across my face.
“I’ll submit this to the CFO, and that wraps up our work for today. I’m genuinely impressed with how quickly you’re grasping the concepts and taking on real responsibilities in less than three weeks. Your hard work is truly commendable, Reyansh. Keep it up.” He beams at me, his pride radiating like sunlight, and I lower my head, a smile playing on my lips as I absorb his words.
Throughout my life, appreciation has followed me like a loyal shadow, and I’ve come to crave those kind words that make all my efforts feel worthwhile.
“That means a great deal to me, sir. However, I must credit a significant portion of this success to the best mentor in the company. Your guidance transforms complex topics into something much easier to understand.”
His laughter rings out warmly, illuminating his face with genuine joy. “You certainly have a way with words. Anyway, you can call it a day now; the clock is nearing closing time. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He gives my shoulder a hearty pat, and we step out into the bustling hallway, parting ways as we head in different directions.
These past two weeks have unfolded like a thrilling new chapter in my life, filled with hectic schedules and constant trips between my mentor’s office and my modest cubicle. What I studied about finance during my postgraduate program feels like a mere appetizer compared to the substantial feast of knowledge I’m devouring now. We’re still navigating the foundational concepts, but yesterday he entrusted me with a financial report, and I’m relieved and proud that it turned out well. The best part so far is his cool, brother-like attitude, being unmarried, in his early thirties, and always pushing me to do better. It can be overwhelming sometimes, but I won’t complain, especially with a big responsibility awaiting me in the future.
Some days I even work overtime when he asks, but I don’t mind. There isn’t much going on in my life except for my girlfriend. Though I do feel guilty for not spending time with her, I am making up for it today. That’s why I planned to take her on a dinner date tonight.
A surge of excitement runs through me just thinking about finally meeting Aditi today. Only a few more minutes before I can leave the office. I head toward my cubicle, but freeze when I cross another identical one to the left, observing the lights to be on. I turn back, my steps leading toward that glass-paneled space. Through the clear sliding door, I spot the familiar silhouette bent over her laptop.
Despite working under the same roof and literally just a few steps apart, I hardly see my best friend anymore, let alone get time together. Amyra Bajaj is the most focused person I know. Once she dives into work, the world around her disappears.
Most of the time, she is away in her mentor’s cabin. And even when I catch her in her cubicle and try to talk, she gives short replies, claiming she’s too busy. Sure, I’m overloaded too, but I still make time to greet her. Why can’t she? It’s starting to feel like she’s avoiding me, which stings more than I admit. Are we drifting apart? No. I won’t let that happen.
If I have to chase her again and again shamelessly, so be it.
But she doesn’t even join me for a quick coffee at the canteen.
Bracing for her poker face, I knock once before sliding open the door. I drop into the swivel chair beside hers. She doesn’t even blink.
Leaning over the desk, elbow propped under my head, my gaze instantly locks onto my best friend.
“Don’t you even turn around to see who entered your cubicle?” I finally break the suffocating silence, but her expression doesn’t budge.
“Who else would dare sneak in without permission except you, Rey?” Her lips move, yet her eyes stay glued to the screen. I study her face, how those spectacles loosely slide down her nose, giving her a nerdy charm that strangely suits her. My gaze trails down to her burgundy fitted top paired with high-waisted tailored trousers, her ponytail pulled tight, bold red lipstick, and beige pumps. Jewel-toned styled outfits with bold lipsticks—that’s become her signature office look, and it fits her perfectly.
Since when did I notice how a red matte lipstick makes her full lips look…gorgeous?
“If you’re done staring, you can leave. I’m working, if you can’t tell.”
Her flat tone needles my patience. I reach out, my hand catching her mid-movement. She freezes, and finally her eyes flash to mine.
“Engrave this in your mind. I need your full attention when you’re speaking to me. Am I invisible to you?”
Our eyes lock, tension thickening between us. She’s the first to break away, slipping her hand out of my hold and returning to her laptop as if nothing happened.
What the hell was that?
Why did I want her attention that badly?
Why does her ignoring me get under my skin?
