A Love Unseen

Character Aesthetic

D E D I C A T I O N

For all those patiently waiting for the stars to align, may you find the soulmate love you dream of. 

––––––––

C H A R A C T E R    A E S T H E T I C

Aditya Singh Chauhan (29 years old)

CEO of The Chauhan Group

––––––––

Tara Sharma (25 years old)

Owner of an Event Management Company

Meet the family members

Aditya's Family

Rudra Mehra (29 years old)

Aditya's college companion and closest friend, serving as the CEO of Mehra Enterprises. Known for his calm demeanor, sense of humor, unwavering support, honesty, and trustworthiness, he shares a strong bond with Aditya.

––––––––

Ram & Vrinda Rathore 

(Aditya's Mamaji & Mamiji.)

Anirudh Rathore (28 years old)

Ram & Vrinda's son. An IAS officer and to-be husband of Ishani Malhotra.

Riya Rathore (24 years old)

Anirudh's sister and an aspiring fashion designer.

Rishi Gupta 

Aditya's assistant and works in Chauhan Group of Industries. 

Tara's Family

Devdutt & Sumitra Saini

Tara's Nanu & Nani 

(Tara lives with her Nanu and Nani since she was 16 years old.)

Manish Sharma

Tara's father . Chairman of The Mirage Architects.

Arjun Sharma (30 years old)

Tara's brother and CEO of The Mirage Architects. 

Ishani Malhotra (26 years old)

Tara's childhood best friend. Owner of Women's Welfare NGO.

Parth Rawat (28 years old)

A General Surgeon affiliated with Nexus Healthcare, a medical facility owned by the Rawat family. He is a former schoolmate and senior of Tara and Ishani, and he is actively involved with a Women's Welfare NGO.

Kritika Mishra

Mutual acquaintance of Tara and Ishani, a psychiatrist employed at Nexus Healthcare.

Jatin Rai

He is employed in Tara's event management company, working under her guidance.

––––––––

Author's Note: I understand that there are numerous characters, you won't be able to remember all of them. However, as the story unfolds, you'll gradually become familiar with them. These individuals constitute the primary cast, and additional characters will be introduced as the story progresses.

Thank you!

A little heart to heart

––––––––

My lovely readers,

Hey everyone! Guess what? I just unleashed my very first story into the wild!  I'm bursting with excitement and gratitude to share it with you all. Big shoutout to each one of you for taking the time to dive into my world—it seriously rocks my socks!

Now, I'm totally new to this writing gig, so bear with me, okay? I'm all ears for your feedback, both the good stuff and the not-so-good stuff. Lay it on me! (P.S.: Be kind! 🫠) I'm here to grow as a writer and as a human, so let's do this together.

Thanks a million for stumbling upon my story and joining me on this wild ride. Your support? It's pure gold, and I couldn't do it without you. Let's make some magic happen!

Happy reading!!!🩵

––––––––

Just a heads up - this story's gonna be a slow burn, but trust me, it's gonna be worth the wait! 

Picture it like cozying up with a steaming bowl of Maggie on a chilly winter night - pure comfort and satisfaction. So get ready for loads of cute banter and heart-melting romance! Can't wait for you to dive in and feel all the warm fuzzies!

Tara Sharma

––––––––

Life is quite unpredictable, and you never know what is coming next. Just when you believe everything is unfolding as per the plan, life takes unexpected turns, and offers numerous surprises when you least anticipate them.  So, no matter how much we plan and prepare, it's better to go with the flow; fix what you can, and adapt what you can't.

Likewise, I never imagined I'd end up walking into the wedding altar with a stranger, all thanks to my Nani's efforts. They've been pushing me to find a life partner, but I've been too busy sorting out my life since high school to even think about dating. Sure, there were a few crushes, but nothing serious ever blossomed.

Lost in my thoughts, I suddenly heard the sound of hooves and lively chatter. Intrigued, I rose from my seat near the groom to catch a glimpse of what was happening. The man on the horse spotted me, halted, and dismounted. I strained to see his face, but it was a bit tricky. As he approached me step by step, my heart began to race.

I walked closer to him, and he had this thing called a sehra covering his face. I wanted to take it off, but then someone's hand stopped me. I touched the hand and found out it was my Nani.

Wake up, Taru. It's already 7 in the morning, beta, said Nani, gently stroking my face.

Just five more minutes, Nani. I swear, I won't sleep any longer, I replied, pulling the duvet over my face.

Okay! Don't say I didn't try to wake you up. Nani paused. As for Ishani's Ganpati Pooja, your Nanu and I will go on our own. You enjoy your sleep. Nani declared, giving up after trying to rouse me for a good 10 minutes.

Ganpati Pooja, I mumbled in my sleep, suddenly remembering that it was the day Ishani's wedding celebrations began. Here I am, still half-asleep, completely forgetting and running late for the pooja.

As soon as the realization struck, I jumped out of bed and hugged Nani from behind. Nani, how can you abandon your favorite child and go without me? But if you and Nanu are in the mood for some quality time alone, it's cool. You guys go, and I'll catch up with you later. Privacy is all yours, I teased her, and a rosy blush appeared on her face.

Stop it. It's not like that. You're getting cheeky, huh? I'll remind you of this when you're married and craving some privacy, she teased me back.

I'm not tying the knot anytime soon, my lovely lady, so you're stuck with me for eternity, I declared, planting a quick kiss on her cheeks. Grabbing the towel, I rushed to the bathroom, and her laughter lingered in the air as she left the room.

Hey, I'm Tara Sharma, and this is how my mornings typically unfold. Nani is my daily wake-up call, and I start the day with a morning kiss for her. 

However, today was a bit different—the dream. I don't usually have these kinds of dreams. Maybe Ishani, my lifelong childhood best friend who is getting married next week, has somehow influenced my mind. It's probably making me a bit delusional. 

We did everything together, from attending school and college to participating in competitions, to working for NGOs. By the way, Ishani runs her own Women's Welfare NGO, and besides managing events, I spend a good amount of time helping her there. We've shared most of our lives, from extended sleepovers to weeks-long trips. We've always had each other's backs, regardless of the situation. She's more like the sister I never had. It wouldn't be wrong to say that she might not even consider marriage if I'm not around. HAHA!!

Anyway, let's set aside the dream and concentrate on the task at hand. Being the owner of my own event management company, and with Ishani being the bride, I'm overseeing all the wedding festivities.

After finishing my morning routine, I stepped out after taking a refreshing shower. As I opened the wardrobe, the usual dilemma of deciding what to wear for the pooja hit me. Choosing an outfit is always the most challenging part.

I'll stick with my first love, I whispered to myself, carefully pulling out the white saree to ensure it didn't crease. Sarees hold a special place in my heart; perhaps it's because my mom used to wear them. Whenever I wear one, it's like wrapping myself in the warmth of her presence, just like when I used to hug her.

A saree always pairs well with big jhumkas, No doubt. I thought to myself as I retrieved the silver jewelry. After adorning myself and completing my makeup, I was ready for the day.

Morning, Nanu, I greeted him with a hug, making my way around the dining table. He always enjoyed his morning tea there while reading the newspaper.

Good morning, bache. You're all set, youthful, and beautiful as ever, he hugged me back, placing the newspaper on the table.

Well, I've inherited these genes from you guys, I playfully returned the compliment. And Nani, have you taken your medicines? I inquired while pouring myself some tea and serving a plate of poha for Nanu and Nani.

Of course, I took it right on time. Otherwise, you'd give my ears no rest the whole day, she complained, making Nanu and me burst into laughter.

Following breakfast, we headed to the temple for the pooja. Inside the car, I dialed Jatin, my assistant who assists me with everything, to check on the preparations. Once he confirmed everything was in order, I kept my phone back in my purse and gazed out of the car window.

A new day brings new possibilities, so I lowered the car window and stuck my face outside. The weather was amazing, making it a beautiful day. I just hoped everything would go the way Ishani wanted. My wish was simple - to bring a smile to her face. Well, God, Ishani has found her life partner. Please send someone special for me too, I quietly requested. There's no feeling in the world like knowing you have a partner to face whatever life throws you.

We arrived at the temple, a forty-minute drive from our house. I hurriedly stepped out of the car to do a final check on the preparations and make sure everything was in place for the pooja. The temple was adorned with white and yellow curtains, complemented by yellow marigold flowers. All the necessary pooja items were arranged, and the panditji had already commenced the preparations.

Both Ishani and Anirudh's family members have arrived for to pooja to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha to start the wedding preparations. The joy in both families was evident, and they were delighted with the decision for the marriage. 

Families are like branches on a tree—growing in different directions, yet their roots remain interconnected. Seeing their complete families, I couldn't help but wish for the same. While I have my Nanu and Nani, who love me dearly, there's still a yearning for the love of my parents.

I lost my mom in a car accident when I was sixteen, and my dad was frequently occupied with his work. Even on the day of the accident, he was engrossed in a meeting. My elder brother, Arjun bhaiya, tried to call him, but his assistant informed us that he couldn't answer the phone due to the ongoing meeting. Unfortunately, by the time he learned about the accident, it was already too late, and we had lost our mom.

After that, I left my parents' house and began living with my nanu and nani. Nanu showered me with all the love my dad couldn't provide. Despite their affection, no one could replace a mother's love. Luckily, after moving here, I found Ishani, and ever since then, there's been no looking back.

Taru, where's your mind wandering? Ishani asked as she embraced me tightly, bringing me back from my thoughts.

Nothing, I just got a bit emotional thinking that in a week, you'll be married and moving to your new home, leaving me, I confessed without breaking the hug.

Silly, I'm just shifting to a new house, but we'll still meet every day at the NGO and if not NGO I'll come at your house. You know I can't function without you, she playfully tapped my shoulders. 

As if my future brother-in-law will let you come every day, I chuckled.

And who needs his permission anyway, she laughed. By the way, Taru, I'm really nervous. Everything is so new, and I just don't know how many emotions I'm experiencing right now. Does it feel like everything is happening too fast? she asked nervously.

Not at all. It's perfect, just the way it should be. I understand you're nervous, but you have your family, me, and most importantly, Anirudh. So, sweetheart, don't be nervous—everything will be alright, I reassured, trying to ease her worries.

All the pooja rituals started with panditji chanting mantras. Ishani and Anirudh took their designated places while the family members made themselves comfortable around them. Only Ishani and Anirudh's immediate family members were present at the pooja, while the rest would be joining them in Udaipur, Rajasthan after two days for all the upcoming events.

After the pooja was done, everyone bid their goodbyes and headed home. Later Jatin came to me to inquire about the keys for the flat where all the wedding stuff was kept which needs to be delivered to Udaipur before the wedding. 

What do you mean, you don't have the keys? I questioned him.

I handed them over to Ishani di the day before yesterday. She needed to store some items there, and it seems she forgot to return them, he replied quietly.

Then you should have asked her, shouldn't you? And by the way, they were supposed to be delivered yesterday, and now you're asking me for the keys? I glared at him.

I'm sorry di, it won't happen again. He apologised.

It's fine. I'll get the keys from her, but ensure that you deliver them by this evening; otherwise, it will be too late, I told him.

After Jatin left, I quickly called Ishani.

Ishu😘: Hey honey! What happened?

Me: Nothing, I just called for the keys to the flat. You have them right?

Ishu😘: I'm really sorry Tara, I forgot to return them back.

Me: It's okay Ishu, I'll come and collect them.

Ishu😘: No, no ,no! I don't have them. I handed them over to Rohan, Anirudh's cousin. Wait, I'll get back to you in a minute.

With that she hung the call to call back again in five minutes. She informed me that keys were with Rohan Singh Chauhan and since he was currently occupied, he couldn't come here to return them, which means I'll have to go there to collect them.

I quickly sent her a message, requesting the address and informing her to let Rohan know that I would be there in an hour. Within a minute, a notification popped up on the screen. I then called Jatin, asking him to accompany me to Rohan's office.

––––––––

Authors note,

(Family isn't always about the people in your life who are blood relations. It's about the people in your life who want you to be in theirs. It's about the people in your life who accept you for who you are, support you in the things you choose to do and no matter what, are there for you. ☺️)

With that, Tara's introduction is wrapped up! Drop your thoughts in the comments below. I'm really excited to hear what you think! Fingers crossed you enjoy it!

Aditya Singh Chauhan

––––––––

A warm glow enveloped the field as the sun dipped below the horizon, creating long shadows that danced across the landscape. Here we are, on the starting line, we stood face to face, gearing up for an exhilarating horse riding race. 

This dude, standing right beside me, tossed out a challenge. If he loses, he'll manage the media fuss about the recent articles regarding my ex-girlfriend and take down all of them. It's a breeze for me, but who'd want to bother with the media and waste time when his uncle runs a media company?

So I took the challenge as it was a no-brainer for me. I've been into horse riding for ages, ever since I was in school. 

We nodded, and our horses sensed the change. Without saying much, we made our horses go. The wind blew through our hair as we raced side by side, a perfect mix of speed and skill. 

You remember the deal. Right? I said as I tugged on the horse's reins to pick up its pace.

It would be better to discuss the deal after the race is over. Who knows, you might end up losing, he laughed as he turned in my direction.

The sound of hooves echoed as we got closer to the finish line. Me and Rudra leaned forward, super focused. Everything around us blurred; the only thing on our minds was getting to the end.

Approaching the finish, I urged my horse ahead with a burst of energy. We crossed the line first, an easy win for me.

Breathing heavily but excited, I slowed the horse down. I looked at him, right there beside me. The competition turned into shared grins. We both knew the real fun was in the ride.

In the business world, where most relationships are purely for business reasons, Rudra Mehra is a person I see as a genuine acquaintance and a close friend. When I entered the business scene, he was one of the few, along with my family, who believed in me. Now, it's common knowledge that I have a solid business mindset. Since I became a part of the company, our business has grown tenfold.

Alright, it's decided then. You're in charge of handling the articles. I grinned and shot him a smirk.

I was planning on helping you with that from the beginning. Just wanted to test your riding skills, see if they've gotten rusty or not, he said, as if he could ever outdo me. This bastard.

Believe whatever helps you sleep at night, I remarked, rolling my eyes at him.

I truly wish you find someone to share your life with, so I can have my own peace and enjoy life. Or just tie the knot soon, buddy; dealing with the troublesome media is just too much of a headache, he said with sincerity as he dismounted from the horse.

I don't see that happening. I'll probably end up marrying someone my family deems suitable. Love and those silly feelings aren't my thing, I stated disinterestedly. Besides, going on dates is just a waste of time. I'd rather invest that precious time in building another business. Giving my horse over to the stable staff, I grabbed the towel from him and wiped away the sweat.

But what if you're missing out on something amazing? You can't deny the magic of falling for someone, the joy of being in love. He gave off the impression that he's had his fair share of love experiences.

Isn't it pathetic how much time we waste on certain people and in the end they prove they weren't worth any of it I handed the towel back to the staff. And besides, time is non-refundable. Use it with intention. I reverted back.

Magic or not, it sounds like a headache to me. I'd rather not complicate my life with emotions.

You never know, my friend. Love might find you when you least expect it, and you'll realize it's worth every second. I am looking forward to the day you'll have to eat you words. he replied with a grin.

After dropping him off at his place, I turned the wheels to head home. I need to prepare myself for facing Maa; she's going to throw a tantrum when she hears the news about our breakup. She's been persistent about setting me up on blind dates, and to avoid that, I entered into a fake relationship with a friend. 

Everything was going smoothly, but out of the blue, she decided to end it, wanting a genuine relationship instead of a fake one. I had been clear about my intentions from the start. If she thought that she could make me fall for her and turn this fake relationship into something real, well, she was mistaken. I don't make love.

I arrived at the mansion, parked the car, and as I walked towards the living room, a voice stopped me. I could tell it was my none other than Maa.

Adi, just stop right there. Why didn't you tell me about your breakup? This was the only thing left, to find out about your breakup through the news, Mom said in anger, crossing her arms on her chest.

Maa, I was planning to inform you, but I've been so occupied with the new project that I couldn't find the right moment, I tried to reassure her.

I know how much you share with me. It seems in this lifetime, I won't get to see my daughter-in-law's face because neither will you choose a girl yourself, nor will you listen to me and go on dates, she said emotionally. Explain it to your son, Vivek; I just don't want to talk to him, she turned around to walk away.

Before she could storm away in frustration, I swiftly moved with purpose, taking large strides to position myself in front of her. Placing my hands on her shoulders, I tried to reassure her.

Maa, please look at me. She turned her face away. I am sorry. I should have informed you earlier, but I thought if I mentioned it, you'd arrange another date, so I chose to let it go this time. I gently held her cheeks in my hands, but she continued to avoid making eye contact. It seems she's really upset.

Okay, fine. What do you want me do? Tell me and I'll do it. I said giving up.

As I spoke, a smile formed on her lips, as if she had already made up her mind. Whenever she desires something that goes against my preferences, she emotionally manipulates me, and unfortunately, she succeeds every time.

Alright, since you're apologizing, I'll forgive you this time. But keep in mind what you just told me, or I might get upset again. She hugged me and gently touched my cheek. Go freshen up, and then join us for dinner, she said as she headed towards the kitchen.

I headed towards the stairs, contemplating what task she might assign me. The last time I made a promise, she ended up signing me up on a matrimonial site. It was incredibly embarrassing; the next day at the office, board directors were introducing their daughters as potential matches. It became a news sensation, with thousands of girls apparently interested in marrying me. I could choose anyone I wanted, but that's a story for another time.

I quickly showered and changed into a T-shirt and sweatpants. Tossing the used towel onto the drying stand, I grabbed my phone from its charging spot. I dialed Rishi, my assistant to arrange a meeting with Mr. Costa, an Italian businessman, tomorrow to wrap up the deal.

Ok, sir. I'll schedule the meeting in the afternoon with Mr Costa and I'll check the arrangements.

Also, send me the file with all the details for the contract now, I instructed, asking him to email it to me.

After examining the contract details, I headed downstairs to join the family for dinner—the only time of the day when we all gather to enjoy a meal and share our daily experiences. Given everyone's busy schedules, family time is a rare thing, so to address this, Dadu, Dadi, along with Maa established a rule: during dinner, no one is allowed to discuss work-related matters or business. It was fair enough.

Bhaiya, you're finally here. Look at Rohan bhai, he's teasing me by calling me a monkey, Ananya complained while chasing after him.

Ab bandar ko bandar nahi bulaunga toh chuhiya bulaunga kya? he teased again, playfully tapping her on the head.

(If I don't call a monkey a monkey, should I call you a mouse?)

Wait, let Dad come, then we'll see who the real monkey is, she tried to threaten him. Ananya is the only girl child in the family, so she is loved and pampered by everyone, especially by Dad. 

With that, she grabbed the jug and splashed water on him across the dining table, then hid behind me. Bhaiya, now save me from this wild creature, she playfully teased him, while I put my hand on her shoulder.

Wait, I'll teach you a lesson now, chuhiya. he circled the table to catch her, but one angry glance from me made him step back. Seeing this, Ananya laughed and stuck her tongue out at him.

Bhai, this is very unfair. No matter what she does, she always gets away with it, whether it's Bade papa, you, Dadu, or papa, everyone favors her, he fake cried. Seems like no one loves me in this house, Badi Maa.

Why were you teasing her then? It's your own fault, Maa scolded him while serving rotis to everyone. Ananya playfully winked at him.

Oh God, these two have started fighting again. You've both grown up; at least behave like adults sometimes, Dadi scolded both Ananya and Rohan, making her way to the dining table from her room along with Dadaji.

Ananya is still a kid, Maa, but Rohan, he's grown up, and yet he keeps behaving childish, Chachu defended Ananya, prompting her to go and hug him. You are the best, Chachu.

Aditya beta, haven't your dad arrived yet? It's time for dinner, Dadu asked me while sitting at the table.

Actually Dadu, Dad had to go to London for an urgent meeting today, he'll be back day after tomorrow, I informed him, he nodded and I took my seat.

But we are leaving for Udaipur for Anirudh's wedding that day, bhabhi. How will Bhaisa come? Chachi asked Maa.

Your bhaisa will come directly from London to Jaipur and then to Udaipur, Maa informed everyone while serving kheer to everyone.

After dinner, I touched both Dadu's and Dadi's feet, wished everyone goodnight, and went to my room, not before kissing Maa and Ananya on the forehead as a goodnight gesture. 

Next morning, I started my day early. I headed out for a jog, something I do every morning. Exercising isn't just about staying fit for me; it's a routine that clears my mind. The steady pace of my jog becomes a backdrop for thinking, like a canvas where I reflect on things.

With each step, my mind feels renewed, letting me think about the decisions I've made. It's like a quiet time to make sure the choices I've made align with where I want to go. This routine isn't just about what happened before; it's a way to plan for what's coming. 

Today's meeting with Mr. Costa is crucial because after this deal, we will commence business in Italy, and Mr. Costa is a well-established businessman there. Signing a deal with him means staying a step ahead of our competitors.

After my morning jog, I headed to my room for a shower. Emerging from the shower, a towel casually hung around my waist, I felt the remnants of hot water linger on my face, neck, and torso. 

I went to the wardrobe and picked out a clean white shirt, paired it with black pants and a matching coat. A coordinated tie and neatly styled hair added the finishing touch.

A bit of cologne in the air, and I left my room, ready for the day.

Good morning, sir, Rishi greeted me, handing over the file as I made my way to the lift, headed for my executive suite on the 20th floor.

Is everything ready for the meeting? I inquired, to which he nodded and replied, Yes, sir. They are waiting for you in the conference room. Quickly, I headed there. After an hour or so, the meeting concluded with Mr. Costa expressing satisfaction with the contract, and he signed the deal. The Chauhan Group is the only entity capable of meeting Mr. Costa's demands; no other business in the industry can match our capabilities.

Mr. Costa, it's a pleasure to have successfully concluded this deal. I believe it marks the beginning of a fruitful partnership between our companies. I expressed, offering my hand for a handshake.

Indeed, Mr. Chauhan, I share the sentiment. This collaboration opens up new avenues for both our organizations. I appreciate the professionalism your team demonstrated throughout the negotiations. he added, extending his hand in return and offering a professional smile.

This deal received widespread media coverage, given its significance in the business world across the country. The PR team has already summoned the press for a conference, to be conducted by Rohan after the deal's completion.

After the  meeting was over, I had another one scheduled with Mr. Malhotra that I needed to attend. I pressed the button for the ground floor in the elevator.

In the elevator, I received a call from Mr. Malhotra, but there was no signal. I patiently waited for the lift to reach the ground floor. As soon as the doors opened, without diverting my attention from the phone, I stepped out of the lift.

Stepping out, I accidentally bumped into a young woman, and our bodies collided. She started losing balance, but without thinking, I quickly reached out. I caught her hand and gently placed my other hand on her waist, ensuring she didn't fall.

Authors note

Hey hey, amazing readers! Buckle up because here comes Aditya's prologue. His take on love might be a bit different from mine, but hey, that's what makes this journey interesting, right? (chuckling sheepishly) After all, this is our adventure together! 

And let me tell you, I'm super excited for you to meet the main characters. And, if they don't win you over at first, no worries—I've got tricks up my sleeve to make sure they grow on you. 😉 Don't forget to drop your thoughts in the comments!

Oh, and any guesses about who the mystery young woman might be? 🤭 Let the speculation begin!

1: The lift connection

––––––––

TARA

I asked Jatin to accompany me to The Chauhan's Group since going there alone felt awkward. I've met with Anirudh's parents and his sister, Riya, to discuss wedding preparations. I even went shopping with Rohan once for the groom's sherwani along with Ishani and Anirudh, and that's when I first met him. He's a cool and funny guy, and we instantly clicked. However, I haven't met the entire family, so going there alone would be uncomfortable.

As we approached the office, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sheer elegance and modernity of the glass building. This place is a striking difference from the outside world, blending luxury and functionality seamlessly. It was not just a physical space; it embodied the essence of the Chauhan legacy.

Hey, I'm Tara Sharma. I have an appointment to meet with Mr. Rohan. Could you kindly assist me? I approached the lady at the reception desk.

Yes, ma'am. Rohan sir has already informed us of your arrival. May I kindly request you to wait in the designated area? She responded warmly and I nodded. She guided me to the waiting area.

As I made my way to the seating area, I collided with an unexpected obstacle – a solid, towering figure. Yes, a muscular wall. Our bodies bumped into each other, and I struggled to maintain my balance. Fearing a potential fall, I instinctively shielded my face with both hands.

Just as I was about to fall, he moved with an agility that took me by surprise. His strong hands found mine, pulling me towards him, and his touch grazed my bare waist, adorned by the delicate drape of the saree. 

A shiver ran down my spine, and I couldn't bring myself to unveil my face, feeling the uneven rhythm of my heartbeat. 

Slowly, I removed my fingers from my eyes, still keeping my face partially covered. His gaze locked with mine, and my eyes met his deep orbs. His eyes were so deep and I was so lost in them that I couldn't find words even if I wanted to.

As I uncovered my face and regained my balance, his grip on my waist tightened, and in a surprising yet effortless move, he lifted me with one hand, never letting go.  He turned around, and before I could comprehend, we were inside the lift. The doors closed, sealing us in, and my heart raced, caught in the whirlwind of the unexpected encounter.

Before I could utter a word—or maybe even shout—he quickly placed his hand over my mouth, and I stared at him with a questioning gaze. The dominance in his eyes became evident as our gazes locked.

Enraged, I removed his hand from my mouth and retaliated by biting it from the side.

Are you out of your mind? What are you trying to do, miss? he exclaimed, pulled his hand away and furrowed his brows.

Exactly! What do you think you're doing? I demanded in frustration.

Excuse me, I just saved you from falling when you seemed lost in your world, he responded with a deep voice, exuding an air of authority, holding my gaze and not budging an inch.

Well, thank you for saving me, but that's not what I'm asking, I said in annoyance. Why did you lift me and pull me into the lift? 

See, I have no interest in pulling you anywhere it's just that the reporters were near the reception area, and I didn't have much of a choice. It was a strategic move to prevent articles about us from dominating the news tomorrow morning. He made the excuse, expecting me to believe it.

Haha, like I'm going to buy that story. Are you the boss around here, expecting articles about you? I questioned him sarcastically, my hands still on his chest as he pinned me against the lift's wall.

Well, nice to meet you, Ms. Trouble, he replied. This man is crazy, thinking he's the boss here. Well, let me correct his general knowledge.

Excuse me, what did you just call me? I asked, my tone laced with anger and annoyance. How dare he call me that? Well, Mister, let me make one thing clear—I know who's the boss here. He is Rohan Singh Chauhan, and you certainly are not him.

You are partially right, Ms. Trouble. Well, to make it completely right... the boss here is Aditya Singh Chauhan, and unfortunately, he is standing in front of you, and about Rohan, he is my little brother, he replied with a smirk as confusion flashed across my face.

I cleared my throat to break the awkward silence and glanced away. Why did I have to resort to biting his hand? I could have simply asked him instead, but no, I chose to bite his hand. Well, Congratulations! You have embarrassed yourself in front of this narcissist. God, I wish the earth could just swallow me right now, sparing me from this embarrassing situation.

Don't call me that. I glared at him.

Call you what, Trouble? I wish I could just give him a good kick; he's that annoying. Well, I won't let him have the upper hand.

Who cares if you're the boss here? You could have told me earlier about the reporters, I took a deep breath in frustration, again looking at him. Gosh, this isn't very comfortable.

Just as I was about to throw another argument, the lift door opened, and I could hear people waiting outside. He quickly put his hand on my mouth again to prevent me from speaking and pressed the lift's 'CLOSE' button. This guy seems to have a knack for keeping people from speaking; it's like his favorite pastime.

So, I bit his hand again. The first time was intuitive, but this time, he practically asked for it.

So, Ms. Trouble, you do bite. he wore a smirk, seems like this time he was enjoying instead of getting angry at the little stunt that I pulled again. 

Not just biting, Mr. Chauhan, I can scratch too. Put your hand on my mouth again, and you'll find out. I threatened him, but to my surprise, his expression transformed into a genuine smile, something I didn't think he was capable of. And don't call me that, it's Tara Sharma, just stick to that.

I waited for his response, but he remained silent, looking at me with surprise. I realized this whole while his hand was on my bare waist and I was holding onto him. We were inches away from each other, and I'm certain he could feel my breath on his neck. Suddenly, the atmosphere became hotter than I had anticipated.

ADITYA

To my surprise, she is something else. While people hesitate to speak up against me, she dares to argue. I initially pegged her as just a pretty face, but it turns out she's courageous. And not to forget, LOUD too.

With us in such proximity, the air seemed to heat up, and I suddenly became aware that I was still holding her by the waist. I've seen my maa and chachi wear sarees, and undoubtedly, they look beautiful. However, this five-foot-four-inch trouble before me, adorned in a white saree, looked truly enchanting, way beyond beautiful. I never thought a saree could look this attractive on someone.

I cleared my throat to shake off those thoughts. Before I could retract my hand from her waist, the lift door swung open and Rohan stood before us, his jaw hanging halfway as if he had witnessed the eighth wonder and was left in awe. This was precisely the scenario I had wanted to avoid by closing the lift door and muffling her words.

Anticipating his reaction, I swiftly withdrew my hand from her waist and took a few steps back, pretending to be engrossed in something on the other side as if it held my unwavering attention.

Bhai, Tara, what are you two doing in the lift together? Do you know each other? he questioned, his tone laced with surprise.

No, we don't, we both replied simultaneously, turning our faces to look at each other and instantly looking away as our eyes met.

Okay, okay. Why are you guys so worked up then? he said, wearing a confused expression. Why is he asking so many questions all of a sudden?

Before he could bombard us with more questions, she intervened, asking him, Rohan, will you please return the keys? I'm already getting late.

Oh, yeah. Here they are. He retrieved a pair of keys from his pocket and handed them over to her.

She took the keys and quickly left, opting for the staircase—a clever move to escape this awkward situation. I also stepped back in the lift, putting some distance between us to avoid any further scrutiny. I pressed the closed button, but he was quick enough to enter.

Bhai, now that Tara is gone, spill the beans. What were you both doing in that compromising position inside the lift? he smirked as if he had caught me red-handed.

Nothing that you were anticipating, I retorted with a cold tone, hoping he'd get the message to drop the topic right there. I raised my hand to loosen the tie, feeling it tighten around my neck.

Bhai, hold on. Don't move. he instructed, turning to face me and clasping my palm in his hand. What's this red mark? he raised his eyebrows, and I hastily withdrew my hand from his hold, realizing what he was referring to. Damn, he'll probably tease me about this for who knows how long now.