Warm lights float overhead like captured stars, glowing softly over the empty tables and the private glass dome prepared only for us. The city below feels distant, respecting that this moment is ours alone. She walks beside me with lanterns reflected in hereyes, and I realize every bit of this is worth it just to make her feel special.
“You booked the entire rooftop again?” she asks, pointing playfully.
“I can’t help it. We deserve privacy,” I reply, and we settle into our seats. A waiter arrives, and once she orders, I give mine.
“Tell me how it is working at B&T Corp!” she leans in, curious.
“It’s interesting, learning and working with a good team. It’s been positive so far.”
“That’s great. I admire people who take their goals seriously. Since you’ll lead the company someday, staying invested helps you stay consistent.” Her maturity always reminds me of how she built herself after losing her parents so young, choosing ambition over distractions.
“That explains how you became the topper of the final semester.” Her results were announced recently, and she absolutely aced it. I’m proud of my girl.
“Oh, Reyansh! I’m just following the path that you and Amyra Di have already set so high.” She says. Eventually, our gossips fill the air as we laugh together, and our food arrives right on time.
“No, darling. I honestly think you’d thrive in the business world with the discipline you have.”
“No way. My dream has always been to become an AI Research Scientist. I want to pursue post-graduation abroad, where Artificial Intelligence has the best scope.”
“That’s a unique path. Are you working toward it?”
“Yes, I shortlisted a few universities. Sending applications is all that’s left.” I absolutely adore the way her eyes always sparkle when she talks about her goals, her drive is so contagious. Also not to ignore, how divine she looks in that full-sleeved Oliver bodycon dress, extending below her knees.
“Didn’t I tell you Harsha Uncle and Neelima Aunty would support your higher studies?” Last week, she finally told them, and they were surprisingly happy to help her but just a little worried about her safety. But, as always, Amyra stepped in and eased their concerns.
“Yes. I worried unnecessarily and Amyra Di really is a pure soul,” Aditi says with a fond sigh.
“Yes, yes. Your Amyra Di is kind to everyone,” I mutter… except me.
She raises her brows. “What was that?”
“Nothing. Eat,” I dodge the topic.
“You know, shrimp dishes are my favorite! I could eat anything with shrimp in it,” She gushes, and I blink.
“No way. I love shrimp too. I’d still eat it today if I hadn’t stopped seven years ago.” My voice softens as a familiar memory warms my chest.
“That’s odd. If you love any food so much, why would you stop?” she asks.
“Because of Amyra.” A moment flashes in my mind, the one that changed everything, and I drift into that warm memory.
“Hey, Ames! What’s wrong? You’ve been scratching nonstop,” I asked as soon as we got into the car, driving home after dinner outside post-college.
“I hid something from you, Rey.”
“What is it?”
“I’m allergic to seafood… especially shrimp.”
“What! Then why did you taste the shrimp from my plate?” Her hands were already red, irritation spreading quickly, yet she kept trying to resist scratching.
“I always avoided shrimp since childhood because they make me itch. But I’ve watched you enjoy them for so long… I just wanted to try it once, with you.”
“Are you crazy? Why would you risk your health just to taste something I like?” My voice shot up unintentionally as she pulled out a tablet from her handbag and swallowed it.
“Relax. This will stop the reaction.”
“Still, Ames… you shouldn’t be this reckless.”
