An Inconvenient Flame

Chapter 31

Apologies for the delay, First I had to shift from flat to a pg and then my semester exams started, they're still going on. That's why I was unable to take out some time to write.

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Seattle 

As the plane descends at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, I feel the butterflies fluttering around my stomach. Lastly it's happening- I'll be  beginning a new journey here in this emerald city. It's just...so good.

Though I feel a little bad for troubling Abhiraj still I couldn't bring myself to tell him not to come along with me. It's my first time, going abroad, travelling in a plane, I wanted a support.

Anyways I am bad at holding grudges. No matter what a person does I just let it go; I don't forget.

After fetching our bags we make our way outside, colliding with the crisp Pacific Northwest air.

I take a deep breath. Tingle rolls all over my chest.

Abhiraj has arranged for a car to take us directly to the university campus where my dorm is located.

As we pass through the bustling city streets, it suddenly started raining, covering the lush parks,  cafes, and skyscrapers in a blanket of haze. Seattle already feels alive.

"I'll be leaving tomorrow. Hopefully all the formalities will be completed by today itself." Abhiraj's voice pulls me from my reverie.

"Huh..."

"I'll be flying back tomorrow."

"Oh okey." I say grimly.

Catching on to the words, I am hit with a deserted feeling, trying to nag me.

What if he forgets me due to my absence? Just like everyone does.

I frown on my absurd thought, obviously whatever will happen, will happen.

But what if?

Until Ivaan is with him, he can't.

And what if this distance leads to separation? Or maybe cheating...that can happen you know, right.

I frown thinking of all the possibilities. Now nothing can be done. And anyways what difference was my presence making. Atleast my absence will give a long period to this marriage.

I withdraw myself from the depressing thoughts, and look towards him. "Where will you be staying tonight?"

Why are you asking such a dumb question? Obviously in a hotel. Idiot.

"I'll be staying in Arjun's penthouse."

I frown in confusion, "Arjun isn't in India?" What is my brother-in-law doing here in Seattle?

"He is living here from past eleven months. We are working on an important merger, it's on its brink. And as soon as it gets completed our company can start spreading it's ventures here in USA. It'll be possible in probably two to three months."

"Ohh...that's great." I reply, giving him a smile.

" He was excited to meet you, but due to some urgency he had to go to Dublin. He'll contact you soon." He says, but quickly adds,  "If that suits you." Maybe not to overwhelm me.

I lean back in the seat, and relax.

"I'll be happy to meet him." How can I not. Knowing someone I know is here in this stranger city, is...relaxing.