𝐶𝘩𝑎𝑎𝘩𝑎𝑡 𝐾𝑎 𝑆𝑎𝑓𝑎𝑟 | 18+

Chapter 8- Lunch together

Adrian Singhannia

Ethan's voice cut through the tension in my office, his tone steady and reliable. "Sir," he began, "Armani ma'am is in the company today. You should talk to her about continuing the project for Fashion Week."

His words were a reminder of the mounting pressure. Fashion Week was approaching fast, and with it, the deadline for six new dress designs. The clock was ticking, and every minute counted. Managing the models and ensuring every detail was flawless was no small feat. I felt the weight of responsibility pressing down, but I nodded curtly in acknowledgment.

"Yes, I'll handle it," I replied, my voice taut with the strain of the workload. I rose from my desk, picking up my blazer with practiced ease. After buttoning it up, I motioned for Ethan to keep an eye on the progress downstairs. I needed to have a word with Shayantika about the project and ensure we were aligned.

Walking down the corridor toward her office, I took a moment to steel myself. The office that once belonged to Virendra Armani was now hers, and it was time for us to address the tasks at hand. I knocked on the door and entered, finding Shayantika at her desk. Her expression shifted from surprise to attentive as I took a seat.

I briefed her on the current status of the project, detailing the progress and the hurdles we faced. Her focus was unwavering as she listened. After going through the details, I extended an invitation for lunch, hoping to discuss the project further in a more relaxed setting.

"Of course," she agreed with a nod, and we both exited the building. As we walked to my car, I opened the door for her, a gesture of courtesy that seemed to surprise her. She slid into the seat, and I followed, signaling my driver to get us moving.

The drive to the newly opened five-star restaurant was smooth. This place, a recent addition to the city's elite dining scene, was one I hadn't visited yet. Although I had attended the grand opening, this would be my first time experiencing it as a regular patron. The restaurant, a testament to modern architecture, gleamed under the midday sun. It was sleek, with expansive glass walls and clean lines that reflected the city's vibrant energy.

As we arrived, I could see the anticipation in Shayantika's eyes. I led the way, flanked by my bodyguards, who kept a discreet but vigilant watch. Inside, the restaurant was a masterpiece of design. The interior boasted a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort, with plush seating and artful décor.

We made our way to a table positioned by a glass wall, offering an unobstructed view of the bustling Mumbai skyline. The city stretched out before us, a mosaic of colors and movements. I settled into my seat and gestured for Shayantika to sit across from me.

Shayantika Armani

"So Mss. Armani, what would you like to eat?" His question cut through the formality of our business discussion, offering a slight reprieve from the intensity of the meeting.

I hesitated for a moment, glancing at the menu. "Um, I'll have fried rice with a salad," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "Just water for me, please."

As he placed our orders with the waiter, I could sense the shift in focus. Adrian seemed to drift into his world of urgent messages and calls, leaving me to my thoughts. I glanced around the restaurant, taking in the luxurious surroundings. It was clear this place was special, and I felt a twinge of curiosity about its significance to him.

Eventually, the silence between us was broken by my own question. "Mr. Singhannia, could you update me on the work progress?"

He set his phone aside, returning his attention to me. As he began explaining the project's details, I found my mind wandering. The business jargon and technicalities were a far cry from the pleasant ambiance of our lunch setting. It was a stark contrast that made it hard to stay engaged.

Thankfully, the arrival of our food provided a welcome distraction. The waiter's formal demeanor and swift exit only deepened my curiosity about Adrian's connection to the restaurant.

"Hm, it's my restaurant," he said with a casual shrug, as if it were a simple fact. "I thought I'd give it a try today."

I blinked in surprise. "Oh, really? That's impressive." The realization dawned on me, adding a new layer of respect for him.

As we ate, I couldn't help but remark on the city's beauty. "The city is actually quite beautiful. I wouldn't have known if I hadn't come to India."

"It is," he agreed, his gaze shifting from the cityscape to me. "But I wasn't talking about the city."

I furrowed my brow in playful confusion. "Oh? What do you mean?"

"The restaurant's view," he clarified with a slight smile. "Not just the city."

His words made me smile, and I relaxed into the conversation. We chatted more easily, sharing insights and stories that felt far removed from the pressures of our work. It was a brief escape, a chance to connect beyond the roles we played in the business.

When our meal ended, Adrian called the waiter, settled the bill, and left a generous tip. The transition back to reality was abrupt. The throng of paparazzi outside was overwhelming, and I felt a mix of anxiety and frustration as cameras flashed and questions were shouted. Adrian's bodyguards handled the situation with practiced efficiency, guiding us to the car.

As we drove back to my office, the car ride was quiet. I thanked Adrian as I stepped out, appreciating the effort he had made to make the lunch more than just a business meeting. He waved as the car drove off, and I watched it disappear down the street.

Returning to my office, I couldn't shake the feeling of having crossed a threshold. The day had been both demanding and unexpectedly pleasant. As I settled back into my work, I found myself reflecting on the meeting and the man behind the business facade. Despite the pressures, there was a sense of relief and anticipation about what the future might hold.

TO BE CONTINUED

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