He notices. I know he notices because his grip tightens slightly. Something soft settles in my chest.
Up ahead, Neel suddenly darts toward a small shooting game stall and starts arguing with the operator about the rules. Aditya and I slow down behind him.
“Divya.”
His voice is quieter now. I turn toward him.
The park lights glow softly across his face. For once he doesn’t look amused or teasing. He looks… thoughtful.
“Can I ask you something?”
“Of course.”
He hesitates for a moment, like he’s choosing the right words. Then he lets out a small breath.
“Would you go on a date with me?”
I blink.
“We are technically on one right now,” I say slowly. He shakes his head immediately.
“No.”
There’s a faint smile on his lips, but his eyes remain serious. “This doesn’t count.”
I raise an eyebrow. “Neel’s list does not qualify as a proper romantic arrangement.”
I laugh quietly.
“That sounds very official.”
“I’m being serious.” His thumb traces the side of my hand absently.
“I mean a real date.” The words settle gently between us. “No missions,” he continues. “No supervision from a seven-year-old.” I feel warmth creeping up my neck. “Just you and me.”
For a moment I don’t say anything. Because something inside my chest is doing strange, hopeful things again. He shifts slightly closer.
“Only if you want to,” he adds quickly. “You don’t have to say yes.”
I look up at him. Really look this time. The man standing in front of me spent the entire evening making sure my little brother had the best night possible. He bought ridiculous prizes. He endured terrifying rides. He held my hand like it was the most natural thing in the world.
And he almost kissed me. Twice. My lips curve slowly.
“Yes.”
The word leaves my mouth before my brain has time to analyze it.
Aditya blinks.
“Really?”
“Yes.”
The smile on his face grows immediately, slow and genuine in a way that makes my heart feel ridiculously light. “Good,” he says.
Then he nods once like he has made a very important decision. He places a quick kiss on my forehead and I smile, "This saturday?" He asks and I nod.
Neel suddenly runs back toward us. “GUESS WHAT.”
