Published on 22nd July 2024.
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Another chapter is here.
Do share your love through the comments. I love reading them.

A long rant in the end.

The chapter is unedited.

♡ Bheegi si bhaagi si

- S H L O K -

I had been waiting for the past three minutes when Akriti finally arrived, slightly out of breath. "I'm so sorry for being late, Mr Shah." She apologized, quickly setting her materials on the table.

"No problem, Ms Goyal. Let's get started." I replied, waving off her apology.

We dove straight into the meeting, discussing the intricate details of the hotel's design. Akriti was thorough and precise, her vision for the space aligning perfectly with what I had in mind. As the meeting progressed, I found myself increasingly impressed and somewhat mesmerized by her professionalism and attention to detail.

"These are the color schemes I've shortlisted," Akriti said, sliding a set of swatches across the table. "I think these tones will create a warm and inviting atmosphere for the guests."

I nodded, examining the samples. "I agree. These look good."

As we continued discussing various elements - the layout, the furniture, the lighting - I couldn't help but think about what Rajiv had told me.

Akriti and Yash were divorced.

Which meant she was single.

This information was a relief but also introduced a new layer of complexity to our interactions. I found myself more enchanted by her every minute, noticing the way her eyes lit up when she talked about her ideas and the slight smile that played on her lips when she explained her concepts.

Despite the weight of my personal concerns, I managed to stay engaged, appreciating Akriti's expertise and dedication.

As the meeting drew to a close, Akriti started to pack up her materials. I watched her for a moment, then cleared my throat. "Ms Goyal, before you leave, there's one more thing I'd like to discuss."

She looked up, slightly surprised. "Of course, Mr. Shah. What is it?" I signaled Rajiv to step out, and he complied.

"I have a personal favor to ask," I began, trying to keep my tone casual. "Would you be interested in helping with a renovation project? It's separate from the hotel work."

Her curiosity was piqued. "What kind of project is it?"

I reached for a folder on my desk and handed it to her. "It's a renovation of my penthouse. I believe your touch could really bring it to life."

Akriti opened the folder and began leafing through the documents. After a few moments, she looked up, her eyes bright with interest. "This looks like a fascinating project. I'd love to help. But-"

"Great," I said, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders. "Can we plan out a schedule that accommodates both the hotel and this personal project?"

She nodded, pulling out her planner. "Absolutely. Let's see how we can fit everything in."

We spent the next several minutes coordinating schedules and setting milestones for both projects. Her efficiency and enthusiasm were evident, and I felt confident that she was the right person for the job.

As we wrapped up our planning, I took a deep breath, deciding it was the right moment to address something that had been on my mind. "Ms Goyal, can I ask you something more personal?"

She looked up from her notes, curious. "Of course, Mr Shah. What is it?"

"We've been working together for quite some time now. I think it's time we drop the formalities. Please, call me Shlok."

Please....

Akriti blinked, clearly taken aback. "Shlok?" She repeated, as if testing the name.

"Yes," I said, offering a small smile. "Shlok."

She hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Alright, Shlok."

I felt a small sense of relief. "Thank you. And may I call you Akriti?"

She seemed to consider this for a moment before giving a slight nod. "Yes, you can."

The atmosphere in the room shifted subtly, the new level of familiarity easing some of the tension. I stood up, signaling the end of the meeting. "Thank you for your hard work, Akriti. I'm looking forward to seeing the final results."

"Thank you, Shlok." She replied, gathering her things. "I'll make sure you have no complaints."

As she walked out of the room, I watched her leave, my thoughts drifting back to the complicated situation with Yash and her. Even though I tried to keep a professional attitude, I couldn't ignore the feeling that I was walking a tightrope, trying hard to balance my work responsibilities with my personal worries.

When Akriti called me by my name, it felt like a small but important step toward managing the complicated situation we were in. It was a small moment, but it made a difference in how I felt about everything.

Learning that she was single stirred a whirlwind of emotions - relief, happiness, and a nagging uncertainty. The realization that she was available sparked a deeper attraction, yet the complex circumstances made me question whether pursuing a relationship would be wise or simply a distraction from our professional goals.

With a heavy sigh, I turned back to my desk, ready to handle the rest of the day's tasks. The weight of responsibility was still pressing down on me, but I was determined to do whatever it took.

❀✿❀

A week (7 days) later~

The penthouse was a mess. I had tried my best to tidy up before Akriti arrived, but with the hotel project consuming most of my time, I knew it was a losing battle.

I glanced around at the clutter-boxes stacked haphazardly, construction materials scattered across the floor. It wasn't exactly the impression I wanted to give, but it was what it was.

I had bought this place a year ago but never had the time to get it furnished.

When the doorbell rang at precisely 10 AM, I took a deep breath and opened the door. Akriti stood there, looking every bit the professional with her notepad. Despite the chaos, her calm demeanor was a welcome sight.

"Good morning, Akriti," I greeted, stepping aside to let her in. "I'm sorry for the state of the place."

She smiled reassuringly as she entered. "Don't worry about it, Shlok. It's alright."

Shlok.

I never realised how pleasant my name could sound.

As we walked through the entrance foyer, I noticed how close we were standing. Her presence was calming, and the warmth of her smile was a stark contrast to the cold, empty space around us.

I led her into the living room, pointing to the scattered items. "This is the main area." I said, trying to ignore the awkwardness of the situation. "I envision it as a spacious, welcoming space. I want it to be comfortable."

Akriti stepped closer to the large windows, her fingers trailing lightly along the dusty sill. "I see the potential here. What's your vision for this space?"

I was suddenly aware of how close we were, the distance between us seeming to shrink with each step. "The current layout isn't working, and I think we need a complete redesign," I stuttered. "How about, you add whatever you feel to be right? You have the entire freedom to do so." She nodded.

As we moved through the dining area, I caught the delicate scent of her perfume - a blend of chocolate and vanilla - that seemed to weave itself into the very fabric of the penthouse, creating a lingering, comforting presence

"I'd like this area to be more inviting." I said. "Maybe something more streamlined and sophisticated."

Akriti made notes, her body leaning slightly toward mine as she considered the space. I noticed how her eyes sparkled with creativity, her enthusiasm contagious. We then entered the kitchen, where I felt her proximity even more acutely.

"I'd like this updated," I admitted, my voice betraying a hint of vulnerability. "Something modern and efficient. It should combine style with practicality."

She nodded, and our hands brushed briefly as she reached for a nearby counter. The touch was fleeting but electrifying, and I could see her excitement for the project mirrored in her eyes. "I'll work on a design that fits both modern elements and functionality."

Next, we visited the bedrooms. As she examined the space, I watched her closely. She moved with a grace that was both professional and intimate, her presence filling the room in a way that felt unexpectedly personal.

"I want this room to be a sanctuary." I said. "It should be calming, a space where I can truly unwind."

She looked at me with an understanding gaze before nodding, and I felt a sense of connection that went beyond the professional. "I'll ensure the design enhances relaxation and comfort."

Finally, we reached the balcony, which was currently an empty space. We stood together, looking out over the city. I felt a growing sense of closeness, the boundary between us seeming to blur.

All I wanted to do was hug her.

But I wasn't sure if it was vulnerability or just the heat of the moment.

"I'd like this to be a cozy outdoor retreat," I said. "Somewhere I can relax and maybe entertain guests."

Akriti's hand brushed against mine as she pointed to different areas of the balcony. The touch was brief but electrifying, and I could see her excitement for the project mirrored in her eyes.

I knew she never felt the same.

Never would!

Despite the warmth of our interactions, a part of me couldn't shake the feeling that she might never reciprocate these feelings. The more I imagined what could be, the more I was haunted by the fear that these moments were nothing more than fleeting connections in the midst of our professional engagement.

"I can definitely work with this. It has the potential to become a wonderful outdoor living area."

As we finished the tour and returned to the living room, the atmosphere between us felt different - charged with an unspoken connection. I felt a mix of anticipation and relief as I spoke. "Thank you for coming today, Akriti. I know handling both the projects would be really difficult."

Her smile was warm and genuine, and for a moment, the professional distance between us seemed to vanish. "Of course." She replied. "I'm excited to start working on the designs. I'll make sure to incorporate your ideas and preferences."

As she gathered her things and prepared to leave, an unexpected pang of disappointment settled in my chest. The brief yet meaningful moments we shared had left a mark on me, and I found myself longing for more time in her presence. The departure felt like the end of something that had only just begun to unfold.

I wondered what might happen next between us.

I walked her to the door, our steps echoing softly through the empty penthouse. The familiarity of her presence felt strangely comforting amidst the chaos. When we reached the door, she paused and looked up at me, her expression thoughtful.

"Shlok," She began, her voice soft. "I'll get started on the plans and send them to you as soon as I can." With Akriti's expertise, I was confident that the renovation would be a success.

As she stepped out, I felt an unexpected pang of regret. I realized how much I enjoyed her company, how much I looked forward to seeing her again. I watched her walk down to her car, her figure gradually disappearing from view.

Closing the door behind her, I leaned against it, reflecting on the day. The penthouse, once a burden, now seemed full of promise with Akriti's involvement.

With a deep breath, I turned back to the mess that surrounded me.

I made a mental note to clear some time in my schedule for the penthouse project, eager to see how Akriti's designs would bring the space to life.

One thing was clear, if I asked her out, she would've surely turned me down. This was the safest way.

I couldn't shake the sense of guilt for involving her in my personal matters when she was originally hired for the hotel's project. It felt selfish, yet I found myself unable to resist the pull of her influence in my life

I couldn't help myself when it comes to her.

✿ ❀ ✿

AUROUS CHARMS ✨

How was the chapter? Your views on it?

Trust me, I'm done with the work routine of shlok and akriti. We gotta shift to their love life asap.

Personal rants: Okay, so someone sent me a huge motivating message on the day next to my birthday. I don't know who that person is. And that message was kept in my message requests for a month.

Now, I received another message request from a different person, and the message read that he had an urgent question. I thought it was some junior who wanted to know more about the colleges (as I've received such messages earlier), so I accepted the message request. Turns out this guy was a creep. Don't worry, I handled him well. No, didn't shout on him. Just kept on asking him senseless questions until he was frustrated. He wanted to talk about love, I shifted the topic to career. Poor guy was defending his degree, saying it's one of the reputed courses, still couldn't get a minimal package 🥹

Back to the first person, I thought to accept that message request too, and typed thanks a lot to his oh-so motivating message. I was sure that if he was another creep, I was gonna use all the gaali I knew. Basically, I wanted to frustrate him too. Bhai, now this guy started confessing that he likes me, and when I asked what do you even like in a private account, he said "ittu sa dp". I thought it was another creep like the last one but he just confessed and vanished after saying "thank you for this". Like bro, you were supposed to make me block you, not be so nice. 😭

Trust me, these people don't know me personally. Sirf dp dekhkar aise confess karna is too easy. No person who knows me personally would dare to come up and confess in their sane mine. Even my guy friends are afraid of the kind of humor I have.

This is it.
Phew, done.

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