Unscripted Love

Chapter 7:

Naira:

Well, I'm pretty sure it isn't me. It's been a month since the interview aired, and Reyansh hasn't made any kind of proposal or declaration to me.

Moreover, every time I listen to the interview, I get the sense that Reyansh is speaking those words for someone else, not me. Perhaps someone else misunderstood him, maybe a relative or... well, why am I still entertaining these thoughts? It's not me.

Even though my own love life seems hopeless, at least there's some romance in the air with my bestie Ragini dating Sourav. And today, I have been invited to third-wheel their date!

Well, Ragini's making a big deal about my look today. Seems like they've got something up their sleeves, but I'm totally clueless about it.

Anyway, I'm not really in the mood for all the fuss with makeup and stuff. I've grabbed a pink kurti and a pair of jeans. Other than that, everything's the same: my hair's pulled back into a ponytail, my glasses are perched on my nose, and oh yes, I've adorned myself with my favorite jhumkas, which I'm absolutely obsessed with.

And Ragini, who is looking very beautiful, is wearing a sky blue dress adorned with delicate yellow flowers, her hair elegantly tied up in a bun with a couple of strands framing her face. The pendant around her neck adds a touch of grace to her attire, complementing her overall look perfectly. 

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Reyansh:

"Why do I need to go with you, Sourav?" I inquire.

"Most of the time, you remind me how the media is going to chase after me. And suddenly today, you need me," I add, puzzled.

"Rey, how can I not have you on my special day? You know that I'm going to propose to Ragini today. You have to be there, please. And who will take those photos when I kneel down and propose to her with that ring?" Sourav explains. "By the way, dress well!"

What does this guy mean by 'dress well'? He's going to propose to her. A lazy t-shirt and jeans are enough for dressing well.

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We reconvene in the hall after 30 minutes. I've been sitting here for 25 minutes already because my outfit didn't take much time to put together. Sourav is looking so handsome. I never knew he had such a romantic side. It feels strange to see him dressed up for a woman.

"You look great, buddy," I compliment."Hmm," Sourav responds."Only a 'hmm'?" I press."I'm feeling nervous," Sourav admits. 
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Naira:

"It's a five-star restaurant!" I exclaim, surprised by the choice of venue.I always had the notion that men take women to cafes, movie theatres, or picturesque venues for dates. But this posh five-star restaurant is beyond my expectations. Wow!

A waiter came and opened the door for us. I was overwhelmed by this kind of treatment.

And now I'm feeling underdressed for this posh restaurant. I should have worn something more extravagant if I had known we were coming here.

"You're Mr. Sharma's guests, right? Please follow me, I'll escort you ladies," the waiter says politely.

"Wait, no, we're not guests of any Mr. Sharma. The booking should be under Mr. Sourav Malhotra," I clarify. 

"You're Ms. Roy and Ms. Singh, correct?" 

"Yes." 

"Ma'am, please let me escort you." the waiter insists.

Why am I feeling tingly all of a sudden? Which Mr. Sharma has booked the table? Is Reyansh here?

"Welcome, Ladies!" Sourav greets us with a warm smile as we enter.  I quickly turn around, scanning the room with eager anticipation, hoping to catch a glimpse of Reyansh. But No, he hasn't come. Maybe busy shooting or something. 

Returning to the present moment, I notice the private room's exquisite decoration, adorned with vibrant red roses and delicate myrtles. As I observe Ragini's impressed expression, I notice a glimmer of happiness in Sourav's eyes and a gentle smile playing on his lips. It's clear that seeing her reaction brings him a sense of contentment and relief, as if all his efforts have paid off. Is Sourav going to propose to Ragini? Oh my God! Ragini is definitely going to say yes. 

"I hope you like my friend's little effort, Ragini," a familiar voice says. 

"Well, absolutely, Rey. Even my friend looks amazed. But is she amazed by this decoration or your presence?" Ragini says, teasingly.

Reyansh turns around and smiles at me. Suddenly, I feel a lump in my throat and goosebumps all over. What's going on? I need to control myself.

"Hi," I manage to say, surprised at how feeble my voice sounds. It's almost as if I've forgotten how to speak. I'm rendered speechless.

How can he look so handsome in just a t-shirt and jeans? His biceps are prominent, and his collarbone peeks out from beneath the fabric. His smile, always captivating, never fades. And his ruffled hair adds to his charm.

He steps closer and envelops me in a warm hug. His embrace sends a rush of emotions through me. I can feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against my chest.

"You look beautiful." he says softly.

"But, you're all red." he whispers into my ear, his breath tickling my skin.