Ever Since We Met

CHAPTER 2

I was waiting patiently in the lobby for Mumma—we were supposed to go shopping for the wedding outfits. That's when I saw him.

A well-groomed guy walked in. He had this dominant, confident aura. I don't usually drool over people, but this guy? Oh boy.

Just as I was mentally preparing myself to not stare, he took off his shades and walked past me to hug a lady—probably in her late 40s, classy and elegant.

Still no sign of Mumma. Ugh.

Finally, she appeared.

"Mumma! Where were you? I've been waiting forever," I said, clearly annoyed.

Just then, the classy lady called out,

"Mahira!"

Mumma smiled and dragged me along to meet her. Oh god—I had zero energy for socializing. And the guy next to her? He was intimidating.

"Juhi, meet my daughter Krisha. And Krisha, this is Juhi Rathore and her son Reyansh Rathore," Mumma introduced.

"Finally! It's so lovely to meet you, Krisha. I asked about you at dinner yesterday. You're gorgeous, beta," Juhi Aunty said, patting my cheek.

"Nice to meet you too, Aunty," I smiled.

Mumma chimed in,

"When did you arrive, Reyansh? All your friends had so much fun yesterday. You missed everything!"

"Don't worry, Mahira Aunty," Reyansh said, his voice deep and smooth. "I cleared my schedule so I can enjoy the rest of the events."

Oh god, why does his voice sound like melted chocolate? Focus, Krisha!

Juhi Aunty asked,

"Where are you two headed? Is this a mother-daughter outing?"

"Not really, Aunty," I replied. "My plan to attend the wedding was very last-minute, so I don't have any clothes. We're heading to Suman Aunty's boutique."

"Perfect! I'm going there too—to pick up a few things for me and Sia. Let's go together."

And just like that, we all got into the car. Reyansh was driving. Juhi Aunty sat beside him, and I was in the back with Mumma.

⸻

At the boutique, Suman Aunty had the most beautiful pieces ready. I tried on a few dresses, and when I walked out in the first one—Mumma's face lit up. I felt someone's eyes on me... and I knew exactly whose they were.

After we were done, we thanked Suman Aunty and got back into the car. Once again, I found myself admiring the resort.

"Mumma, this place is magical. It's the perfect wedding venue!"

"I forgot to tell you," she said. "This resort belongs to the Rathores."

"As in... Juhi Aunty?"
"Yes," she smiled.

We thanked Juhi Aunty for the ride. I was carrying a bunch of shopping bags when she said,

"Reyansh, why don't you help Krisha to her room? She's carrying too much."

As we made eye contact, I swear—I felt butterflies. I immediately looked away, trying not to trip or say anything stupid.

We walked in silence until Reyansh started a conversation.

"So, you studied in London?"
"Yeah," I replied, suddenly forgetting how to form a sentence.

"You like the resort?"
"It's beautiful. One of the nicest I've seen."

"Thanks. It's one of our dream projects. You should explore it at night—it's even better then."
"I will," I said with a small smile.

We reached my room.

"Thanks for helping with the bags."
"No problem. You're our guest. And... you looked beautiful in all the dresses," he said, handing me the bags.

Was I blushing? Yep.

"Thank you," I replied shyly.
"See you at the sangeet tonight," he said before walking away.

And now—I just remembered the dance. I completely forgot. I'm stressed.

Guys, I'm sorry for not publishing for so long. I'll try to be regular now on. Do show some love
Thank you for giving my book a chance.