Chapter 13: chapter 13

Sanyogita's cheeks flushed a light pink hue as she felt a mix of embarrassment and relief. She hadn't been in the mood to dance with Vishal, whose persistent attention had begun to make her uneasy . But Prithvi's sudden interruption gave her sudden reprieve.Her gaze met Prithvi's for a brief moment, a silent understanding passed between them . A spark of surprise flickered across her face and then a gentle smile that illuminated her features."Of course," she said, her voice touched with a vibrant excitement.His face split in a friendly smile, his eyes creasing at the edges. He felt an overwhelming joy, glad that Sanyogita didn't look uneasy with him. Instead, she moved forward, her smile frequent and real.As she slipped her hand into Prithvi's, a jolt of electricity coursed through both their bodies. Her fine fingers intertwined with his, sensing the heat and power of his hold. Sanyogita's dark, coarse hair rippled on her back with every movement, its smooth waves tumbling down her back like a waterfall in the night .Prithvi took her hand and walked her out to the floor, where the band was starting a slow but melodic song with passionate music . "I was scared I'd have to dance with him," Sanyogita confessed, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes darting toward Vishal before returning to Prithvi's reassuring gaze. "Thank God, aap ne banchaliya" (Thank God, you rescued me).Prithvi's gaze transfixed onto hers, his eyes burning with admiration. He brought her closer than before , their bodies swaying in perfect sync. The soft rustle of her clothes, the sweet smell of her perfume, and the gentle pressure of her hands on his created a symphony of feelings. "You're looking gorgeous, Sanyogita," he whispered, the words echoing in her mind. Her cheeks flushed as if he could read her mind, her eyelids drooping downward. He pulled her closer, his arms around her waist, and led her to the dance floor. The music had a sensual melody that reflected the rhythm of their heartbeats.She didn't pull away, instead, her hand tightened around his, her fingers intertwining with his. On the contrary, Prithvi held her so close that she could smell his cologne ,she still did not complain .She was still looking at his charming brown eyes as she could get lost in it . The more time passed the more he held her closer , he tightened his grip on her waist.His strong plam touched her soft hand for the first time. His face was so close to her that she could feel the warmth of his breath against her face .There was now a dreamy gaze in his eyes.He captivated her by passing each second. He removed her hand and slowly caressed her arm by his fingers as warm as a flame against her skin.He held her captivated by his touch. She shivered by his touch and closed her eyes due to nervousness. She moved closer to him to give a hug .Her heart was pumping so fast that it could come out any time from her chest.Her brain had stopped working. She encircles her hands around his neck. Under the dim light, Prithvi's desire to kiss her intensified. He inched closer, their faces were a few centimetres apart, the world around them seemed to dissolve into nothingness . The red, blue disc lights of the party work like a fuel of their forbidden intimacy.Her plump, glossy lips caught his attention, inviting him to taste their sweetness and feel their softness on his. His breathing became heavy with keen anticipation and nervousness. Sanyogita's warm breath whirled around his face, sending shivers down his spine.Prithvi's hand instinctively reached behind her head and cradled her neck, sending an electric spark across her skin.  He drew his face closer, their lips an inch apart , the air thick with tension.Just as their lips were about to touch when the sound of shattered glass intervened. A waiter's accidental mishap broke the spell, and the music screeched to a halt. The lights flickered on, bathing the room into radiance. Both sprang apart, their faces flushing with embarrassment. They didn't dare to look at one another , the newly built up intimacy between them now laced with awkwardness.Sanyogita hastily fled from the party, her heels clicking on the marble floor. Prithvi followed her , his guilt-ridden conscience propelling him to apologise.Prithvi ran down the street, his gaze scanning the sidewalk for a glimpse of Sanyogita's posture. Finally, he spotted her near a taxi stand. She was standing straight, her palms clasped tightly to her chest, her eyes closed and praying. The soft glow of the streetlight illuminated her distress.He approached cautiously, his footsteps quiet on the pavement. "Sanyogita," he whispered softly, his words so quiet they were almost lost in the background din of the city .She was startled. With the back of her hand she wiped the sweat below her nostrils. Her eyelids fluttered, and she turned to face him. Her heart thudded in her throat, and her face flushed with shame.Prithvi stepped closer, his voice laced with sincerity. "I'm sorry, Sanyogita. Whatever happened , it was , it was a mistake. I've come…I came to apologise to you " His voice faded softly.Sanyogita's eyes went wide and slid away to evade his gaze. Her cheeks still flushed from memory of  their almost-kiss, she took a step back, increasing the distance between them and said "Sir, let's not discuss this anymore. It's late, and I really must go." Her tone measured, layered with professionalism, belied her inner turmoil."I get it, " Prithvi said, his voice soft . "But please know that my intention wasn't to make you uncomfortable. You're a valued member of my office, and I like the   professional relationship we have ."Sanyogita's hands clasped together, her posture unyielding . "Thank you, Sir. I appreciate your understanding." Her words were laced with a mixture of relief and uneasiness.The memory of their lips almost touching lingered, making the tension between them thick .  Prithvi's gaze lingered on her as it was , although his expression softened. "I'll drop you," he offered, his tone courteous, but laced with a hint of longing.Sanyogita's refusal was immediate, her words tumbling out in haste. "No, Sir, I can. Honestly , it's fine." She backed away, her eyes still averted, struggling to reconcile her attraction with the professionalism she strove to uphold."Please, Sanyogita, at least let me ensure you get home safely," Prithvi pressed, his furrowed brow full of concern.Sanyogita's voice was firm. "No, Sir. I'll be fine." She turned and hastily hailed a taxi nearby.As she slipped into the taxi , Prithvi's eyes lingered, his face serious out, "Sanyogita?"She turned, her eyes meeting him briefly. "Yes, Sir?""Take care," Prithvi said softly.Sanyogita's response was barely audible. "You too, Sir." Prithvi's eyes narrowed slightly, sensing her unease. He nodded curtly. "Very well. Goodnight, Sanyogita." The words felt hollow, leaving unspoken emotions hanging.Sanyogita's response was barely audible. "Goodnight, Sir." She turned and hastily hailed a taxi nearby, her heart racing with conflicting desires.The taxi drove away, leaving Prithvi alone with the faint scent of her perfume lingered in the air and the haunting question, "What if?"He stood there,He remained there, lost in thought, sounds of the city at night swirling about him. . The weight of unfinished longing occupied heavy on his chest. His eyes drifted upward, towards the sky, where a solitary moon hung, a silver crescent in the blackness . The stars were absent, leaving only a vast emptiness that reflected his mood.Prithvi's thoughts swirled, a maelstrom of emotions: longing, regret, and uncertainty. He felt the weight of what could have been, if their almost-kiss .. would happen.With a deep breath, he turned and slid into his car, the leather seat creaking softly. The key turned on the ignition, and the engine purred to his home.As he pulled away from the curb, Prithvi's gaze returned to the rearview mirror once again , his eyes locking onto the vacant space where Sanyogita's taxi had vanished. Inside the taxi, Sanyogita let out a shaky breath as she leaned over the backseat . her eyes shut, trying to soothe her churning mind. Her heart still racing from their meeting, she could not shake the memory of the intense eyes of Prithvi. Her mind wrestled with the implications of her gradually developed attraction towards her Boss . Her career and integrity would be at risk if she crossed the line from employee to something more."Why was I forced to work for him?" she grumbled to herself, anger and desire fighting a silent battle"Why did I have to work for him?" she muttered to herself, frustration and attraction warring within. "Why did he have to be my boss?"The taxi driver's voice interruption brought her back to reality "Madam, we're approaching your stop "Sanyogita opened her eyes, reality snapping back into focus. She paid the fare and stepped out into the cool night air, her thoughts still tangled in the web of her emotions.As she entered her room , Sanyogita couldn't shake the feeling that her life was about to take a dramatic turn – one that would challenge her professionalism, her emotions, and her very sense of self.**************The next day, Sanyogita maintained a deliberate distance from Prithvi, citing work-related issues as her excuse. Her body language screamed unease – averted eyes, and measured responses.Prithvi noticed the change, his keen eyes  detecting the subtle tension in her shoulders. He understood , and shame washed over him as well.  The incident at the party last night was still fresh in his mind, and he kept thinking that he had bridged the line.As they collaborated, Prithvi found it difficult to control his feelings. Why was it so difficult to control his feelings around her ? He wondered if he'd lost his edge, his usual composure crumbling in her presence.She was everywhere, yet seemed – seven oceans apart . Her proximity taunted him, a constant reminder of what he couldn't have. Sanyogita had become a haunting melody, echoing in his mind, refusing to dissipate.She was that Broken dream Of him that neither he wanted to forget nor he had the power to conceal it.Prithvi's thoughts swirled, a whirlpool of longing and regret. He'd never had her, yet she'd become an integral part of him – an unshakeable presence that left him questioning his own feelings.His contemplation was broken by his assistant's voice . "Sir, Vishal Kapoor is here to see you."He nodded for approval , composed himself, and stood up to greet his guest. When Vishal Kapoor glided into the cabin , he had a radiant smile across his features."Hello, Mr. Malhotra! It's an absolute pleasure to meet you again" Vishal exclaimed, his voice dripping with gratitude, as if the encounter would make his day.Prithvi's expression reflected a hearty welcome. "Good to see you too, Vishal. Please, have a seat." He gestured to the soft leather chair opposite his desk. Vishal made himself comfortable, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Mr. Malhotra, I wanted to tell you something about our new partnership. We've officially become business partners, but I'd like to believe that we're friends now too." A faint smile played at the corner of Prithvi's lips as he leaned back in his chair. "I'd like that, Vishal. Your collaboration holds great potential. I'm eager to explore the possibilities."Vishal's expression brightened . "Mr. Malhotra, it is an honor to work with someone like you. Without a doubt, your experience will help us take our business to new heights." Prithvi's eyes locked on Vishal's. "I am impressed by your innovative approach, Vishal. Our combined expertise will undoubtedly yield extraordinary results." Vishal beamed, a glint of pride on his face. "Thank you, Mr. Malhotra. Your guidance and support mean a lot to us.”Prithvi’s eyes remained fixed onto Vishal's. "I'm impressed with your innovative approach, Vishal. Our combined expertise will undoubtedly yield remarkable results."Vishal beamed, his face radiating pride. "Thank you, Mr. Malhotra. Your guidance and support means to me."Prithvi smiled, his expression softening. "Call me Prithvi, Vishal. We're partners now. No need for formalities."Vishal's grin widened. "Of course, Prithvi. I'll make sure to remember that."As they delved into the details of their partnership, Prithvi's mind occasionally drifted to thinking of Sanyogita. He wondered how to break the ice between them . They had become friends just a few days ago and he didn't want any further complications , not even wanting to show his desperation how badly he wanted her in his life .Prithvi's gaze rested on Vishal, his mind wandering beneath the surface. What had prompted Vishal to schedule this meeting? He felt a subtle motive beneath , but Vishal's enthusiasm was contagious. Just then, Sanyogita glides into the cabin, her confident stride commanding attention."Sir, I've brought the latest designs for your approval," she said , spreading vibrant images across Prithvi's desk.Vishal's eyes flicked toward Sanyogita, his eyes resting on her erect form. Prithvi noticed the brief glance, his senses tingling. Was Vishal attracted to Sanyogita professionally or personally?"Sir, see, our team has reworked the layout," Sanyogita explained to him ,  her tone firm and professional. "The new design should enhance user experience."Prithvi's focus returned to the discussion, but his awareness of Vishal's interest in Sanyogita persisted. He listened intently as Sanyogita outlined their next project, her passion for the work evident.Vishal's eyes roamed from the sketches to Sanyogita, his gaze lingering on her face for a brief moment . "Miss Sharma, it's beautiful... I mean, all these designs. You're incredibly super talented , and I have a soft spot for talented individuals." His voice was heavy with flirtation, his smile charming.Sanyogita's cheeks flushed, her eyes darting to Prithvi before returning to Vishal. "Thank you, Mr. Kapoor. Your approval means a lot to us."Prithvi's gaze snapped to Vishal, his eyes narrowing. Beneath the praise, he observed a subtle undertone of flirtation. His jaw clenched, a primal response rising up . He watched Vishal with an intense, predatory gaze, as if measuring potential rivals .Vishal, oblivious to Prithvi's growing unease, continued, "I must say, your creativity is captivating. I'd love to discuss these designs further, perhaps over dinner?" His voice was imbued with overtones.Sanyogita's smile wavered, her discomfort evident"I…. value the offer , Mr. Kapoor, but I think we should concentrate on the project.".She maintained her professional tone, despite the warmth spreading through her chest. Last night's incident flashed in her mind – Vishal's persistent attempts to approach her.Vishal's eyes sparkled with interest. "By the way, Miss Sharma, you can call me Vishal. As they say, naam le ke bulane se apna sa lagta hai." His voice dripped with charm.Sanyogita's smile widened, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ji Sir."Vishal chuckled. "Phir se... sir... No sir... Only Vishal.""Okay, Vishal," Sanyogita said, her voice laced with a hint of amusement.Prithvi's gaze turned icy, his eyes narrowing as he watched the dramatic meeting between the duo . A pang of jealousy stabbed at his gut, the feeling intensifying with each passing moment. Why didn't Vishal have his eyes on anyone else?Vishal's tone shifted, taking on a flirtatious edge. "Btw, I want you... " He paused, chuckling, but Sanyogita's eyes grew wider, her smile faltering.Prithvi's cough cut through the tension, his face darkening.Sanyogita's gaze drifted to Prithvi, the glass of water poised in her hand. But before she could offer it, Prithvi waved his hand, signaling he'd get it himself.Vishal's voice cut through the scene, his tone hopeful. "I mean, I want you to design some clothes for my family too."Sanyogita's eyes are dotted between her Boss and Mr.Kapoor but she held back her composure calm and collected.Prithvi's eyes narrowed, his mind racing. When a man involved his family in meeting a girl, it usually signified serious intentions.Vishal's eyes sparkled, awaiting Sanyogita's response. "Okay... Si..." she began, her voice hesitant.Vishal's left eyebrow arched, his face alight with anticipation.Sanyogita's lips curved into a gentle smile. "Okay, Vishal."Vishal's grin erupted , as if he'd conquered Mount Everest. His eyes gleamed with triumph.Prithvi gritted his jaw,  his eyes fixed on Vishal. A warning bell clanked in his mind – Vishal's interest in Sanyogita went beyond professional.Sanyogita, oblivious to the subtext, let out , "I'd be happy to discuss your family's design preferences."Vishal's excitement bubbled over. "Fantastic! I'll arrange a meeting with my mother and sister. They'll love your work."As Vishal pulled out his phone to schedule the meeting, Prithvi's unease deepened. He sensed Vishal's strategic maneuvering, using his family to win Sanyogita's trust.Prithvi's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with discomfort. His gaze oscillated between Vishal and Sanyogita, his thoughts simmering with thoughts. His jealousy flared, as if he'd been submerged in a pool of scorching red chili. She never smiled like that when she was with him , yet with Vishal, she seemed effortlessly at ease. Vishal's eagerness was conscious. "So, when will we meet?" He leaned forward, his eyes locked onto Sanyogita.Sanyogita's eyebrows wrinkled, her expression peculiar – a mix of surprise and wariness. "I... wasn't sure," she began.Vishal swiftly rectified his question. "I mean, when I come to pick you up for the design consultation, as before that, you'll need to meet my sister. She's eager to discuss her clothing designs with you."Sanyogita's face relaxed, her smile returning. "That sounds fine. I'll make sure to adjust my schedule."Prithvi's discomfort intensified. Vishal's casual mention of picking Sanyogita up, coupled with her willingness, ignited a fire within him. He felt like an outsider, watching their easy interaction with growing resentment.As Vishal and Sanyogita finalized the details, Prithvi's mind wandered. Why did Sanyogita's smile come so easily for Vishal, yet remain elusive for him? The thought gnawed at his pride.  Indeed he was that much jealous as if anyone drained him in a pool full of red chili. Sanyogita's smile illuminated her face. "Okay, Sunday will be fine. I hope you don't have any issues."Vishal's response dripped with charm. "Sure, ek dum... I can wait for you so long. I mean, my sister will wait for your design for so long." His lover-boy smile made Prithvi's irritation simmer.Prithvi's gaze had witnessed enough of the exchange. Frustration boiled over, and he burst in, his voice laced with annoyance. "Miss Sharma, you've forgotten that this weekend there is an urgent meeting in the morning, and it will continue late into the afternoon."Sanyogita's brow furrowed as she shifted her gaze to Prithvi. "Sir, which meeting? I checked, and there wasn't any meeting scheduled that day. Plus, the office is closed on Sundays."Prithvi's anger strained against his composed facade. "Miss Sharma, I don't care about other offices. In my office, rules and regulations are made according to my wishes. And I'm your boss. Why must I remind you every time there's an important meeting?" His tone bit with controlled irritation." What's going on in this office?? When and where the meeting will be held it should be your duty to remind me . Where does your mind always stay, Miss Sharma ??  " Prithvi’s voice rose in decibel. Sanyogita's eyes widened, taken aback by Prithvi's outburst. "I... I apologize, Sir. I wasn't aware."Prithvi's expression remained unyielding. "Miss Sharma, we don't pay you to apologize. I want results. You'll complete these 30 files today, before office hours end. Understand?" His gaze bore into hers.Sanyogita's eyes widened, her face pale. "Sir, 30. it's not possible. It's already 1:30, and my lunch break is nearing its end."Prithvi's position did not shift. "Those are not my concerns. I want all files prepared by today's office hours “Sanyogita's voice trembled. "Sir..." Her plea was met with silence.Prithvi rose from his chair, his movements deliberate and commanding. He slipped one hand into his pants pocket, the other gesturing toward the wooden cabinet. "Take those files, Miss Sharma."Vishal's eyes darted between Prithvi and Sanyogita, an alarm etched on his face. He intervened, attempting to rescue Sanyogita. "Mr. Malhotra, consider giving her two days."Prithvi cut him off, his voice still razor-sharp. "No need. Miss Sharma will prioritize her work commitments." His glare lingered on Sanyogita before shifting to Vishal.Vishal's mouth closed, his expression frozen in surprise.Prithvi's gaze turned icy. "Mr. Kapoor, in my company, decisions are mine to make. Punctuality and uninterrupted work are non-negotiable."His eyes flashed with a warning, his voice low and even. "Vishal, I think we've covered enough for today. Shall we schedule a follow-up meeting?" His tone brokered no argument.Vishal's grin remained, but his eyes flickered with awareness. "Of course, Prithvi. Sorry about that."Sanyogita gathered the files, her hands struggling to hold the piles. Vishal stepped forward, concerned etched on his face. "Let me help.""Thanks Vishal for your concern  but I'll  manage this ," Sanyogita replied, her voice strained. She exited the cabin, frustration and outrage simmering beneath her composed exterior.Prithvi watched her leave, his gaze lingering on the closed door. Then, he turned to Vishal, whose expression betrayed his dismay.Sanyogita seized the opportunity to exit. "Mr.kapoor please you'll excuse me, I have some tasks to attend to."Vishal looked bewildered, he tried to do something to rescue Sanyogita from the burden of work. As he planned to flop . As she left, Vishal's gaze transfixed on her retreating figure. Prithvi's jaw tightened, his emotions seething within him .Prithvi's gaze lingered on the door, his eyes scorching with intensity as Sanyogita disappeared from his view. Then, his attention shifted to Vishal, whose expression betrayed his dismay.Vishal' jaw slackened as he realised his plans had failed. His eyes, which had once been bright with hope, had dimmed with disappointment.Prithvi's lips curled into a faint, triumphant smile. Deep within, he celebrated his victory, his thoughts echoing with possessiveness. "Bravo Prithvi!.... Oops sorry Vishal, to douse your plans, but Sanyogita is mine alone... Sanyo sirf meri ki hai aur kisi ki nahi."