My unfulfilled dreams are enough to anchor me back to reality, yet I need this time to introspect to understand my role in this relationship and what it truly means to me. I only hope I find the courage to walk through the storm without getting completely devastated.
Chapter 28
Amyra
“Shanaya ma’am, what is the time and location of the international conference tomorrow?”
We had just reached the luxury hotel straight from the Singapore airport, checked in at the reception, and were about to head to our suites when Karan and Reyansh nudged me forward to ask about the conference details.
“I’m glad you asked,” she says, pausing. “We must have forgotten to inform you. The conference begins sharply at 9 a.m., hosted at the prestigious waterfront convention hall at Marina Bay, seamlessly connected to this hotel. We need to gather in the hallway at 8:30 a.m. so we can leave together.” She stops mid-step to relay the information, the other two mentors nodding in agreement beside her.
“Alright, ma’am. We’ll be on time,” I reply with a nod, Reyansh and Karan mirroring it instantly.
“Good. Revise the conference documents before the day ends, and be prepared for tomorrow. Also, feel free to explore the hotel and the surroundings, Singapore is a lovely place. See you tomorrow morning.” Then the mentors step into the elevator, leaving first, since their suites are on a different wing. We proceed to another elevator.
“Let’s settle into our suites first,” Karan suggests as we move ahead. I notice Reyansh quietly grabbing my trolley suitcase and pulling it along.
“I can hold that—”
“That’s fine. Keep walking.”
Always in protective mode around me!
The hotel rises along Marina Bay like a statement carved in glass and steel, quietly powerful and unmistakably elite. Everything here moves with intention. Marble floors echo faintly beneath measured footsteps. The air carries the subtle scent of white tea and polished wood. Conversations stay low, respectful. This is a place that understands privacy as a language of its own.
After taking the elevator to the fifth floor, we turn right into the corridor.
It’s hushed, carpeted in deep charcoal, bathed in soft golden lighting that never fully fades, even at midnight. Floor-to-ceiling windows at the far end open to the Marina skyline, city lights stretching endlessly, a reminder that Singapore never truly sleeps. Our suites are positioned side by side: Reyansh’s in the center, mine on the left side, Karan’s on the right.
“See you tomorrow, guys.” I take the suitcase from Reyansh and turn to step inside my suite when Karan’s voice stops me.
“What about dinner? Let’s go together.” I glance at my wristwatch. It’s still early, and exhaustion weighs heavily after the journey.
“I’ll order room service. I really need to rest,” I say, letting my fatigue show. He nods quietly and disappears into his suite, while I notice Reyansh still standing there, staring.
“Do I need to tell you separately? Just get lost,” I mutter, shoving his chest in irritation before unlocking my door and slipping inside.
The suite leaves me momentarily speechless, expansive, designed less for comfort and more for command. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows dominate the living space, offering uninterrupted views of Marina Bay, water, lights, and constant movement. At night, the city feels like it’s breathing right outside.
Plush sofas, minimalist art, and a work desk positioned deliberately to face the view, as if success itself is meant to be contemplated here. The bedroom flows seamlessly from the living area. A king-sized bed dressed in crisp white linen, warm lighting that never feels harsh, curtains gliding open at the touch of a button, luxury that doesn’t demand attention, but earns it. The bathroom is all marble and glass, complete with a deep soaking tub overlooking the city, privacy ensured, indulgence unquestioned.
I already love this place.
I shrug off the bomber leather jacket Reyansh had given me on the flight when the cold became unbearable. I bring it to my chest, inhaling his scent, lingering in his warmth one last time for the day before folding it neatly and placing it in the wardrobe.
Though my body aches with exhaustion, I opt for a hot shower and comfortable clothes. I rummage through my suitcase for essentials and head straight into the bathroom. By the time I return from the bedroom, I’m ready to collapse onto the bed for a long, deep sleep, but a knock on the door interrupts me. I frown, confused. I haven’t ordered room service yet.
Dragging my feet, I walk to the door and open it to find Reyansh standing on the doorstep, freshly bathed, dressed in a black shirt and black track pants. How does someone look this irresistible without even trying…
“Don’t you invite me inside?”
“Didn’t I tell you I’m too tired to step outside?”
“Did I say I’m here to take you out? Now move aside.” He squeezes past me into the suite, eyes roaming around as he takes in the space.
“Gosh, Rey. Why are you even here?”
“Because I know you’re probably calling it a day and skipping dinner for sleep. Let’s order room service and eat together.” He knows me too well, and that realization feels unexpectedly warm.
