“Amyra, I— I’ve lost my mind. I’m so sorry. Please forgive—”
“Whether I’m pitiful or shameless is none of your concern, Mr. Karan Mahajan,” she replies coldly, her voice as steady as ice. “Please, just let me go.” She begins to turn away, and instinctively, I reach out, grabbing her wrist gently.
“I swear it was unintentional. Please don’t leave me with this bitter taste.” She pulls her hand back, fixing me with an unwavering gaze that pierces through my defenses.
“I know your intentions weren’t meant to hurt, but they reflect how you truly feel, Karan. In the brief time we’ve known each other, you’ve become a cherished friend, and I value the bonds I forge. I want to keep in touch even after you leave the company. But I won’t use you as a rebound to forget another. I refuseto give false hope or exploit your feelings. You need to accept reality and focus on your future. You deserve someone who can offer you complete attention and unwavering commitment. I hope we both find solace from the agony of unrequited love.”
Her voice steadies as she steps closer, wrapping her arms around me in a gentle embrace, patting my back softly. I close my eyes, savoring the warmth I’ve always longed for, the sweet touch flooding my heart with emotion. My vision blurs as I return the hug, however briefly. But then, without a moment’s hesitation, she pulls away. Speechless, I watch as she takes my hand and shakes it gently, a bittersweet farewell.
“I wish you all the best in your future, Karan. I’m always just a call away as a friend. Until we meet again.” With a small smile, she lets go and turns away, disappearing into the darkness.
It’s over.
I’m losing a woman who is so pure-hearted, fiercely loyal, and profoundly kind. I can’t blame her as she was clear from the beginning. I’m the one who ignored the signs and let my feelings grow. Now that every chance is gone, I must accept the darkness surrounding me and gather the courage to walk through it until I find the light again.
It won’t be easy, but I have no choice except to move forward and leave this phase behind. As for Reyansh, he must be blind not to see the unconditional love she holds for him. Or maybe, someday, he will.
As for me, it’s time for me to return to my roots and focus on what truly matters in life.
Chapter 31
Reyansh
It’s already been a week since we returned from the successful international conference trip, yet Karan is nowhere to be seen. When I asked Amyra about him, she simply said his internship was over. But how was that possible? Wasn’t he supposed to complete the internship with us?
Why would he leave without any prior notice, or had he been hiding it all along?
Even if he was meant to leave, why would he take a separate flight from Singapore to India? He could have at least accompanied us, considering it was his last time with us, especially with Amyra. And why didn’t he even visit B&T Corp to bid a final goodbye to his mentor or inform the heads of the company? Okay, maybe I’m going delusional after finally getting rid of the obstacle that blocked my path to Amyra and that too so easily.
Something definitely happened during their meeting at the Helix Bridge. When she returned, she looked lifeless, calm yet lost, barely speaking on our way back. I tried to understand the reason behind her disturbed behaviour, but she refused to open up.
Even the news about Karan leaving the internship came out only when I pestered her too much. Since then, she’s been strangely distant, as if her mind is tangled in something she doesn’t want to share with anyone. I can’t help but imagine multiple scenarios about what happened between Karan and Amyra that night, something that stole her peace.
There’s a strong chance Karan confessed his feelings to her, and she rejected him. But why would that shake her so deeply? Why does she look so gloomy, so withdrawn, that it aches my heart every time I find her lost in herself?
Just because it hurts to see her hurt doesn’t mean I should invade her personal space and force her to spill the truth.
I will wait for the right time.
Karan might have left the company, but he still lives in the same city. I fear what if our parents visit the Mahajans to set a match between him and Amyra. But I know Amyra better than that. She doesn’t bend to societal pressure but stands firm for what she truly believes in. I just hope I don’t end up living a nightmare anytime soon.
At present, we’re seated in a meeting hall surrounded by the regular core staff. I’m certain the Chairperson and CEO are about to address us.
“Congratulations on the successful international conference in Singapore to the young team led by Amyra, Reyansh, and Karan. I also extend my appreciation to the mentors who guided them with dedication.” Amyra’s father smiles warmly while my dad maintains his usual stern expression.
“Thank you, sir.” The hall fills with applause. I force a small smile, but Amyra remains unreadable, her face perfectly composed.
“With Karan wrapping up his internship to focus on his own company, you both still have your remaining internship period to complete. This will be the final phase of your journey. You’ll be posted to different sub-brands of B&T Corp within the city, one month in each branch. This schedule begins next week, which is just a day away. I expect you to work hard and prove yourselves worthy of higher responsibilities in the future. I wish you both the very best.”
My dad concludes in a firm tone. We nod quietly in response.
Different sub-brands mean we’ll be working separately. We won’t see each other except on holidays or if we deliberately choose to meet. And considering how Amyra believes I have other personal responsibilities to fulfil, I doubt she even wants to go out with me anymore.
That means we might barely talk for the next three or four months. I don’t think I have the tolerance to stay away from her that long. Today, this very moment feels like the right time to express my feelings. If I bind us together now, I’ll finally have the right to meet her anytime, anywhere, without restraint.
As the meeting continues, we’re asked to return to our cubicles. The floor is almost deserted since everyone is still inside the hall. I pull Amyra toward an empty cabin nearby, and she looks horrified by my sudden move.
“What are you doing, Rey?” She yanks her hand back, clear annoyance flashing across her face, an unfamiliar sight.
