Destined to a Gangster

24 - Casino Royale

Raghav opened the door to the car for Pallavi. She was a little dazed with her surroundings and took his hand cautiously. He wondered what was going on in her mind right now. She didn't look curious as he had expected rather she looked nervous. As he walked her into the building he tried to replay their conversation trying to figure out her mindset.

As they entered the beautiful lobby of the hotel she kept looking around at the people. Yet she did not for a second look at him. If anything her face looked somewhat scared. He turned towards the restaurant on the left but to his surprise Pallavi  turned to the right heading towards the reception. He quickly placed his hand on her shoulder to stop her. She looked at him questioningly so he pointed towards the restaurant. The change in her expression was instant.  She looked relieved for some reason but he couldn't understand why. As they walked towards the restaurant a light bulb went off in his head. He finally understood why Pallavi was  acting so weird. For a moment he thought of continuing the joke but in the next, decided against it. He didn't want her to get mad and ruin the night.

As they were guided to the table by the hostess. He pulled back a chair for her and helped her sit down, before taking his own seat.

"So what do you think?"

"It's a beautiful place."

He waved to the server to bring in their food since he had picked their menu beforehand.

"So we came here to eat?"

"Of course! Why did you think we came here?"

"You said something about my list? I don't remember dinner listed. Even if it was at this beautiful place."

"You are impatient. The night has just started."

He passed her the drink menu while she made a face at him.

"What would you like to drink?"

"Wine"

He placed both their drink and appetizer order before focusing back on her.  She was visibly relaxed now as she observed the restaurants interior. He had no interest in watching  anything but her. In the black dress she looked nothing short of divine. It was when the food was delivered that they both broke from their respective trances.

She took a tentative sip of her wine and smiled appreciating the taste. He congratulated himself on making the correct choice.

"I wanted to ask you something"

He looked at her wondering what this could be.

"You can ask about anything just not about tonight."

She rolled her eyes at him.

"Nikhil - did he really need to go or did you plan it."

"A little of both."

"What does that mean?"

"Meaning there was a situation that I just used to my advantage."

"Hmm" she took a sip of her wine.

"I don't lie Pallavi. Also, this was a perfect time to cross off another item on your list"

He gave her a smile as their food came to the table.

"I have a feeling this is going to be more about you than me."

"Not at all Ma'am, I am here for you."

He gave her a wink and for good measure served her food first.

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As their dishes were cleared away the server left the dessert menu while taking their final drink orders. He passed the menu for Pallavi to pick while he asked for a refill of his drink and ordered a glass of port for Pallavi.