Hold my hand_ TejRan fanfiction

Chapter 8: The Unexpected Alliance

The elevator doors chimed as they opened onto a luxurious hallway. Stepping out, Tejasswi found herself facing a floor-to-ceiling window showcasing a breathtaking vista of the storm-tossed ocean.

"Wow," she breathed, momentarily forgetting their conversation. The wind howled outside, whipping the palm trees into a frenzy. Sheets of rain lashed against the glass, blurring the world beyond.

Karan came to stand beside her, his gaze mirroring hers. "Looks like we're in for a wild ride," he remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Tejasswi turned to him, a hesitant question on her lips. "So, what do you have in mind for this 'exploration' of yours?"

Karan grinned. "Well, for starters, how about a swim? They've got a heated indoor pool downstairs, perfect for a day like this."

Tejasswi raised an eyebrow. "A swim? In a hotel pool? With you? Seriously?"

"Why not?" Karan countered, feigning innocence. "Isn't that what friends do? Besides, it'll be a great way to burn off some pent-up energy and build our bond."

Tejasswi couldn't help but smile. "You and your energy," she said, shaking her head playfully. "Alright, fine. For bond making one condition –keep it professional.. no funny business in the pool, Mr. Noon."

Karan chuckled. "Deal, Ms. Chatterjee. Now, shall we make a grand entrance or a sneaky one?he winked"

Tejasswi's lips twitched. "Knowing you, it'll be anything but sneaky."

With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Karan offered his arm. "Then let's make a grand entrance, shall we? After all, we don't get to be stranded in a five-star hotel every day."

Tejasswi hesitated momentarily before taking his arm, a warmth spreading through her as their fingers brushed. A playful energy crackled between them as they walked down the hallway, starkly contrasting the storm raging outside. Perhaps, Tejasswi thought, this forced friendship wouldn't be so bad. Maybe it could even be...fun.

The opulent lobby bustled with activity as Karan and Tejasswi entered, Karan's playful remarks and tejasswi's reply leading to their banter drawing curious glances. Karan, ever the showman, held his head high, a confident swagger in his step. Tejasswi, despite herself, couldn't help but straighten her posture, a touch of amusement dancing in her eyes.

"This way, my beautiful partner," Karan smiled, leading her towards the elevators adorned with gleaming gold trim.

As they waited, Tejasswi noticed a group of women huddled together, whispering and giggling. Their eyes kept flitting between her and Karan, fueling a blush that crept up her cheeks.

"Seems like we've caused quite a stir," Karan remarked with a low rumble.

Tejasswi scoffed. "Don't flatter yourself, Mr. Noon. They're probably just curious about the strange business partners who can't seem to decide if they're fighting or flirting."

Karan's smile widened. "Touché, Ms. Chatterjee. But honestly, which do you think it looks like more?fighting or flirting?" he smirked

Tejasswi suppressed her blush "Neither. Now, can we please get to that pool before you manage to charm the entire hotel staff?"

They stepped inside the other elevator, the silence suddenly thick. Tejasswi couldn't help but steal a glance at Karan but his gaze was fixed on her already. But, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes made her stomach flutter.

"So," he finally said, his voice a husky whisper, "about that deal we made..."

Tejasswi's heart skipped a beat. "What about it?"

"Do you think there's room for a little...flexibility?" Karan's voice dropped even lower, sending shivers down her spine.

Tejasswi's mind raced. Was he trying to back out of the deal already? Or was there something more he was hinting at?

Before she could respond, the elevator doors pinged open, interrupting their charged conversation. The pool area unfolded before them, a haven of tranquility amidst the storm's fury. Plush towels were neatly arranged on loungers, and the air shimmered with the gentle warmth of the heated water.

Karan extended his hand towards the changing rooms. "Shall we?"

Tejasswi took a deep breath, her resolve hardening. "Fine," she conceded. "But remember, Karan, this is just a swim. Nothing more."

A knowing smile played on Karan's lips. "Of course, Tejasswi," he agreed, his voice laced with a hint of amusement. "Just a swim. But who knows, maybe this storm will lead to a change in the weather...between us, I mean."

Tejasswi couldn't help but let out a soft laugh, the tension finally easing. Perhaps, she thought, a little flexibility wouldn't hurt. Maybe this forced friendship could be an opportunity to explore the unspoken feelings that thrummed beneath the surface. With a newfound sense of anticipation, she followed Karan into the changing rooms, a hint of a smile gracing her lips.