chapter 43

“If I help you turn your café around, it’ll raise my reputation within the industry,” Aditya continued, his tone matter-of-fact. “As a business consultant, my success depends on the businesses I work with. People notice results. If I can help your café become more successful, it’ll showcase my expertise. And as a food blogger, the more successful your café is, the more exposure I’ll get—more opportunities for collaborations, sponsorships, and a wider audience. It’s mutually beneficial.”Riya’s face remained neutral as she processed his words, her mind spinning. She had known there was probably some self-interest involved, but hearing it out loud felt different. For a moment, she felt a pang of vulnerability. She had been so focused on her own struggles that she hadn't stopped to think about what Aditya’s true motivations might be.Aditya seemed to sense her internal conflict and quickly added, "But, I want to make it clear—it's not all about me. It’s about the potential of this place. I see what your café could become, and I genuinely believe it could grow with the right strategy. Helping you succeed is a win for both of us, but I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think there was something worth investing in."Riya looked down at her hands, her fingers still lightly tapping the cup. His words hung in the air, and she couldn't help but wonder if it was all just a business transaction for him. Her instincts told her to be cautious, to keep a safe distance, but at the same time, she couldn't deny the fact that Aditya was offering something she truly needed: help, guidance, and the possibility of a future where she and Milli wouldn’t have to struggle so much.“I think...” she said slowly, “I think I’m ready to try.”Aditya nodded, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “You won’t regret it, Riya. And if you do, we’ll work through it together. But you have to trust yourself first.”For the first time in a long while, Riya felt a spark of hope flicker inside her. She wasn’t alone in this anymore. And maybe—just maybe—this could be the start of something beautiful.Later that day, Aditya met Nirmala and Milli. Riya had invited him to join them for a late lunch at her apartment, unsure of what to expect, but wanting to gauge his character beyond the business proposals.When Aditya entered the small living room, Milli was sitting on the floor, her crayons scattered around her, concentrating on coloring a picture of a tree. Riya stood by the door, watching as Nirmala rose to greet him.“Aditya, this is my mother-in-law, Nirmala,” Riya introduced, her voice tentative. “And this is Milli, my daughter.”Aditya smiled warmly, kneeling down to Milli’s level. “Hello, Milli. That’s a beautiful picture you’re drawing.”Milli looked up, her big eyes studying him for a moment before she shyly smiled. “Thank you.”The interaction was simple, but there was something genuine in Aditya’s demeanor. He spoke to Nirmala with respect, showing interest in her stories and asking questions about her life. He didn’t try to impress them, just quietly blended into their world with an ease that surprised Riya.As they sat down to eat, Riya couldn’t help but notice the way Nirmala’s eyes softened when she spoke to Aditya. The older woman seemed to be evaluating him, as she did with most people, but there was something approving in her expression.After lunch, as Aditya stood to leave, he turned to Riya. “I’m really glad we met today. I know you have a lot to think about, but I’m here whenever you’re ready.”Nirmala, who had been watching quietly from the kitchen, finally spoke up as he reached the door. “Aditya,” she said, her voice steady but kind, “sometimes, a person’s actions speak louder than words. We’ll see what you can do to help, but remember, it’s not just about business. It’s about trust. And if you can earn that, you’ll have all of us behind you.”Aditya nodded, his gaze steady. “I understand. I won’t let you down.”As the door closed behind him, Riya felt a wave of uncertainty wash over her. She wasn’t sure what the future held, but for the first time in years, she felt like she had a chance to build something new—not just for herself, but for Milli, and maybe even for a love she never thought she’d find again..