It’s not a competition, so why do I even want to swap places with Karan?
“It’s lunchtime. I request everyone to move inside the adjacent restaurant.” The host’s announcement snaps me out of my thoughts.
“Come on!” a whisper reaches me, and I realize Amyra is already walking ahead with Karan.
This guy never leaves her alone.
I grit my teeth and hurry to her other side. As we enter, the staff guide our fathers into a private chamber while the employees settle in the open area.
Dad and Harsha's uncle suddenly turn and gesture for us to follow them. I instinctively hold Amyra’s hand to lead her inside.
“But Karan…” She slips her hand away, confusion in her eyes.
“I mean all three of you, young lads!” Dad smiles, making Amyra return the smile and glance at Karan before nodding. They exchange broad smiles and step into the private chamber, leaving me behind, resentment and frustration simmering in my chest.
“Rey, come on…” she calls, and I shut my eyes briefly to regain my composure before entering.
The seniors seem deep in discussion, so the three of us settle at another table with Amyra seated between us.
“The restaurant management is one of the sponsors, I guess,” Amyra says, and Karan nods.
“Yes. They offered to sponsor the meals when I visited to confirm the venue,” he explains, eyes fixed on her.
“That’s brilliant. You did absolutely well.” She pats his shoulder, clearly impressed, while my fist curls under the table in silent rage.
“Let’s order first.” Amyra glances at me, and I nod.
After we finish selecting dishes, I force myself to stay calm and act normal, just like we have in the last three weeks, meeting regularly, sharing bits of our lives, chatting over coffee, taking quick strolls around the office, and finding each other in our cubicles.
Even though I’ve managed to avoid Karan around her, especially in their newly allotted cabin, a bitter feeling still flares when I see him spending time with her. There are moments I wish I were in his place, but I know that’s impossible, so I simply cheer her on.
“I’m so proud of you, Ames. Everyone is talking about your work. The employees and the heads are pleased with this unique idea of the Employee Engagement Campaign. They said it’s the first time it’s happening outdoors and for such a meaningful cause.” I beam, having seen how much she poured into this, her first campaign and how it exceeded everyone’s expectations.
Amyra is born to shine, and I’m lucky to witness it from the front row.
“Such a relief to hear that, Rey! Thank you. But if you want to compliment the campaign, give credit to both Karan and me. He put in equal effort, and I’m so glad to have a partner who matches my determination.” She looks at Karan with genuine gratitude, and he taps her head playfully. I feel irritation creeping into my insides to hear his praise from her lips.
“Oh, Amyra! I feel so fortunate to share my first campaign with you. But your part was harder than mine. Still, I’m very satisfied with the outcome.” He grins, his eyes warm with fondness, and my foot taps restlessly under the table. My irritation doubles.
It’s almost certain he still harbors feelings for her, and maybe he’s even hoping to win her over.
And that unsettles me for reasons I don’t want to admit.
“Let’s dig into the food now,” Amyra chirps, thankfully diverting the topic from mutual admiration, and we follow her statement like obedient puppies by immediately picking up the spoons and forks.
The day stretches into the afternoon session. We grab the beach clean-up kit along with a trash bag Amyra picked up from the eco-NGO partners.
“See you after the session.” Karan excuses himself, and Amyra nods.
“Come on, Rey! Hands forward.” Amyra taps my chest lightly, making me face her. I extend my hands as she slips gloves onto my fingers, her focus gentle and steady, and the gesture touches me more than it should.
It only proves that no matter who enters her life, my place in her heart stays intact. But still, I can’t control the fear of losing her someday, or more precisely, to somebody.
I don’t like her choosing Karan as her boyfriend; that much is certain. But will I ever be happy even if Amyra gets close with someone other than Karan? I am not sure. It’s insensible, and I know it.
I take a moment to admire her look: simple, stylish, the company jersey flowing over wide-legged dark blue jeans, beige sneakers, high ponytail, bare face with minimal makeup, and her trademark nude lipstick. She always looks effortlessly gorgeous. I love how she experiments with jeans, and every style suits her perfectly.
“Now give me the tools, Rey!” she says, pulling on her gloves.
