The Business of Hearts

Chapter-4 Unraveling Emotions

Author's POV

A few days after the party, Kiara sat in the bustling cafeteria of The Chaudhry's company. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the soft chatter of employees. She sipped her cappuccino, glancing at her phone occasionally. The last few days had been a whirlwind, especially with Yuvaansh Oberoi becoming a frequent presence in her life.

Just then, Yuvaansh walked in, spotting Kiara instantly. He made his way to her table with a confident stride. Dressed in a crisp blue shirt and tailored trousers, he looked every bit the successful businessman.

"Hey, mind if I join you?" he asked with a warm smile.

Kiara looked up, slightly surprised. "Oh, hi Mr. Oberoi. Sure, please sit."

He pulled out a chair and settled in, placing his coffee on the table. "It's Yuvaansh for you. Busy day?"

"Not really, just catching up on some emails," Kiara replied, her tone polite but guarded.

Yuvaansh leaned in slightly, his eyes focused on her. "You know, I was really impressed with your ideas at the meeting the other day. You have a unique perspective."

"Thank you," Kiara said, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "I try my best."

Yuvaansh took a sip of his coffee, studying her. "So, how did you get into the family business? Was it always the plan?"

Kiara shrugged, playing with the rim of her cup. "Not really. I was more interested in art and design. But you know how it is—family expectations and all."

"Totally get it," Yuvaansh nodded. "My parents wanted me to join the family business too, but I wanted to carve my own path first. That's why I started my own company before joining forces with them."

"That's impressive," Kiara admitted. "It must have been tough."

"It was," Yuvaansh said, his tone earnest. "But it was worth it. It taught me a lot about business and about myself."

There was a brief silence as Kiara processed his words. She found herself relaxing slightly, drawn in by his sincerity.

"So, what do you do for fun?" Kiara asked, breaking the silence. "When you're not conquering the business world, that is."

Yuvaansh laughed softly. "I paint. It's my escape. What about you?"

"Traveling," she replied with a smile. "I love exploring new places, experiencing different cultures. It gives me a fresh perspective."

Yuvaansh nodded, intrigued. "That sounds amazing. Where's your favorite place so far?"

"That's a tough one," Kiara said, leaning back in his chair. "But if I had to choose, I'd say Italy. The art, the food, the history—it's incredible."

"Wow, Italy is on my bucket list," Yuvaansh said. Her eyes lighting up. "Maybe someday."

"Definitely," Yuvaansh agreed. "We should go together sometime."

Kiara looked at him, slightly taken aback by the suggestion. "Maybe," she said, her voice unsure.

"Relax," Yuvaansh said with a chuckle. "I meant it in a professional way. A business trip. We could visit some art galleries, get inspired for new projects."

Kiara smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "That sounds like a good idea."

Just then, Kiara's phone buzzed with a message. She glanced at it and sighed. "Duty calls. I have to get back to work."

"Of course," Yuvaansh said, standing up. "But let's catch up again soon. I enjoy our conversations."

"Me too," Kiara admitted, standing up as well. "Thanks for the coffee chat."