Alicia: The girl I met on twilight

35

As the days unfolded, Aarav and Alicia found themselves seamlessly transitioning from occasional interactions to daily communication. What started as a playful call evolved into a regular exchange of texts, calls, and meaningful conversations.

After office hours, their phones became a bridge connecting them beyond the workplace. Aarav and Alicia exchanged messages, sharing details about their days, discussing common interests, and delving into the intricacies of their lives. The initial hesitation melted away, giving rise to a natural and effortless connection.

During breaks, they would find solace in each other's company over phone calls. Whether it was discussing work anecdotes, sharing laughter over inside jokes, or simply enjoying the comfort of each other's virtual presence, their daily conversations became a source of joy amidst the bustling atmosphere of Delhi.

The more they talked, the more they discovered about each other – dreams, aspirations, quirks, and even the mundane details that make up a person's life. Aarav found himself drawn to Alicia's warmth, intelligence, and the genuine nature that radiated through every word. Alicia, in turn, appreciated Aarav's sincerity, humor, and the genuine interest he took in her thoughts.

Their growing connection became a testament to the unexpected bonds that could flourish amidst the ordinary moments of an office routine. Aarav and Alicia's daily interactions unfolded like a story, each text and call weaving a narrative of shared laughter, understanding, and the blossoming of something special
In the late afternoon, as the golden hues of the Delhi sunset cast long shadows through the office corridors, Aarav found himself inadvertently positioned near Mr. Singhania's office standing with box of chocolates to give to Alicia
The muffled sounds of a conversation between Mr. Singhania and Alicia reached his ears, and curiosity compelled him to linger.

**Mr. Singhania:** (leaning casually against the corridor wall) Alicia, may I have a moment?

**Alicia:** (smirking) Of course, Mr. Singhania. What's on your mind?

Mr. Singhania, with a discerning look, brought up the topic that would soon shatter Aarav's perception of his connection with Alicia.

**Mr. Singhania:** I've observed a certain camaraderie between you and Aarav lately. Everything going smoothly?

Alicia, with a calculated smile, responded in a manner that would echo in Aarav's thoughts long after the conversation had concluded.

**Alicia:** (mocking laughter) Oh, that guy? He's just my boredom buddy. You know, a newbie like him can't grasp our professional intricacies, right, darling?

The term "boredom buddy" hung in the air like an unspoken revelation, and Aarav, hidden from their view, felt the impact of those words. His heart sank as the realization set in that perhaps the connection he had felt with Alicia was merely a facade, a pastime for her.

Aarav stood there, unseen and unheard, grappling with the unexpected revelation. The laughter he had shared with Alicia now felt like a distant memory, replaced by the sting of mockery. The corridors that once felt familiar now seemed alien, echoing with the harsh truth of Alicia's words.