I’ve always enjoyed being close to her… but since when did I want her to feel it too?
“Stop talking nonsense. Why are you here?” Her clipped remark slices my thoughts apart. I draw in a breath, trying to bury the strange rush of feelings.
“Fine. Is your work not done yet? It’s almost time to leave.”
“It’ll take a few more minutes to finish this review.”
“How’s everything going?”
“Interesting. I’m learning something new every day. You?” She finally glances at me, which makes my heart jump.
“Same here. I am really enjoying it. It’s enthralling.”
“Good to hear.”
“So Aditi and I planned dinner tonight. Want to join us?”Great job, Rey. Invite someone to third-wheel your date.
But Amyra is not just my best friend, but is also Aditi’s cousin. It shouldn’t be weird… right?
“Sorry, Rey. I don’t want to tag along on your romantic evening with my sister. And I have plans with Sanchi too, it’s been long time.”
“It’s also been a long time since you hung out with me, but sure, ignore that.” A sarcastic laugh slips out before I can stop myself, making me sound pathetically desperate.
“Rey, you’re no longer the single guy chasing after his best friend. Focus on dating my sister and give her the attention she deserves.” She finally cracks a soft smile, instantly soothing the chaos inside me. I pretend it doesn’t matter.
“I told you I’d balance everything, didn’t I? Anyway, should I wait for you?”
“No. You go ahead. I need to meet my mentor before I leave.” She effortlessly rejects my hope for a few more minutes with her, and it stings more than it should.
“Alright. See you tomorrow. Have fun with Sanchi.”
I grunt the words, push up from the chair, and stride to my own cubicle, dropping into my seat with more force than necessary.
God, why am I acting like a kid because she asked me to get lost?No. I’m just overthinking. Overreacting.
Like she said… I should focus on my girlfriend instead of obsessing over every little thing Amyra does.
Rey, get a grip over yourself.
*****
“Aditi! Here!” I wave as she looks around the restaurant, searching for me where I’ve been waiting for the last fifteen minutes.
“Hey, Reyansh!” She rushes to me, and I pull her into a warm hug, her arms instantly wrapping around me.
“I missed meeting you,” she whispers when we part, and I cup her face, smiling.
“I missed us, too. Let’s make some beautiful memories tonight.” I brush my fingers through her hair, her cheeks flushing as she nods. We head to the elevator that leads to the top floor.
“Didn’t we have a buffet downstairs? Where are we going?” she asks, surprised.
“This place is famous for its rooftop dining. I booked it for us.” I lean back against the elevator wall, watching her eyes brighten.
“Oh my God! I’ve always wanted to have dinner under the stars. Thank you for fulfilling a tiny dream of mine.” She hides her smile behind her hands, and pride quietly blooms in my chest.
“I’m glad I get to see you smile like that.” I pinch her cheek, and just then, the elevator doors slide open.
“Here we go.” I take her hand and lead her out.
