The Unexpected Union

2. The Meeting

Asha's heart raced as she read the message from Karan. He had invited her to meet him at a coffeehouse near her office. during lunch when she entered the coffee shop, she was nervous probably for the first time since she gave her exams a few years ago. She spotted Karan sitting in the corner, sipping on a latte. He looked up and caught her eye, a charming smile spreading across his face. The knot in her chest loosened when she saw the friendliness on his face.

"Hey, Asha," he said, standing up to greet her. "You look stunning." Her heart skipped a beat when she heard his deep voice.

"Thanks, Karan. You don't look so bad yourself," Asha replied, trying to sound casual despite her nerves. She was blushing like a school girl and hated her body's reaction to the gorgeous man in front of her.

They sat down, and Karan asked, "So, Asha, tell me about yourself. How have you been? the Last time I saw you was at the 25 year anniversary of Mehra Telecommunications."

That was when it clicked Asha off where she had last seen him.She remembered a younger version of him sitting at bar looking solemn. " I have been great. It's just a little tiring to be the CEO and manage the whole company. But other than that there is nothing to complain. How are you? I remember Papa telling me about the new startup you invested in. How did that turn out for you?"

The conversation flowed so easily that it was like meeting an old friend over a cup of warm coffee.

"So,What do you like to do in your free time?"

Asha took a sip of her coffee before responding, "I'm a photographer, and I love capturing moments and beauty through my lens. How about you?"

"I love cooking and painting. But I also have a passion for photography. I'd love to see your work sometime."

Asha's eyes lit up. "That's great! I suck so bad at cooking that my mother doesn't even allow me near the kitchen now. Also, I'd love to show you my portfolio. Maybe we can even go on a photo walk together?"

Karan's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "That sounds amazing! I'll have to show you my photos too."

As they continued talking, Asha found herself feeling more comfortable around Karan. He was charming, witty, and shared her passion for photography. But she still couldn't shake off the feeling that he was hiding something.

"Karan, can I ask you something?" Asha said, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"Of course, what is it?" Karan replied, his expression open and honest.

"What's your favorite thing about photography?" Asha asked, studying his reaction.

Karan's smile faltered for a moment before he replied, "I love capturing moments that tell a story. But I also enjoy the solitude of being behind the lens, observing life without being noticed."

Asha's intuition kicked in. There was something more to Karan's answer, something he wasn't revealing. She made a mental note to probe deeper.

As they finished their coffee and prepared to part ways, Karan asked for her number. "I'll text you about that photo walk, okay?"

Asha agreed, and they exchanged numbers. As they said their goodbyes, Asha felt a spark of connection. Maybe this arranged marriage thing wasn't going to be so bad after all.

So, do you guys think Karan is hiding something or Asha is just being paranoid...

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I would love to hear your views and suggestions about the story

Love,

Coco