MY MOON

CHAPTER 28: ALEX

After our meal, we took our time getting ready for the party. Alya disappeared into one of the bedrooms to change, and I took the opportunity to freshen up as well. When she emerged, dressed in a stunning blue emerald bodycon that highlighted her natural beauty, I couldn't help but stare.

"You look incredible," I said, my voice filled with genuine admiration.

"Thank you," she replied, her cheeks flushing slightly. "You don't look so bad yourself."

I laughed, feeling a warmth spread through me at her words. "Shall we?"

We headed to the venue in the hotel car, the city lights casting a magical glow over everything. As Alya and I walked into the grand ballroom, the energy was palpable. The room buzzed with anticipation and excitement. The polished marble floors reflected the dazzling chandeliers overhead, casting a warm, golden glow across the sea of elegantly dressed guests. The unveiling of the new car designs was the highlight of the evening, and everyone was eager to see the masterpiece that Alya had crafted.

The moment we stepped inside, we were immediately greeted by a wave of applause and congratulations. Industry leaders, media personnel, and enthusiasts alike surrounded me, their faces lit with genuine admiration. Alya's designs had captured the imagination of everyone present, and it was clear that her hard work was about to be rewarded in spades.

"This is Alya Rastogi, the brilliant designer behind our latest model," I announced proudly, gently guiding her forward. Alya's eyes widened slightly at the sudden attention, but she quickly composed herself, smiling graciously as people flocked to her side.

"She's truly the genius here," I added, stepping back to let her shine. "Her vision and creativity are what brought this car to life."

Alya blushed at the praise but accepted it with grace, engaging with each person who came to speak with her. It was incredible to watch her in this light. She was radiant, her confidence and passion evident in every word and gesture.

People were enamoured not only by her work but also by her poise and elegance. Offers and opportunities flowed in from all sides. Representatives from rival companies were eager to discuss potential collaborations, and journalists were vying for interviews, desperate to capture her thoughts and insights.

As I observed from a short distance, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. Alya was in her element, and seeing her celebrated for her talent was a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Throughout the evening, our eyes met across the crowded room more times than I could count. Each glance was charged with a mixture of shared pride and a growing connection. There was a silent communication between us, a mutual understanding that this night was a pivotal moment.

At one point, Alya caught my eye and smiled, a look of pure joy and gratitude on her face. It was a smile that spoke volumes, and I found myself returning it with an intensity that surprised even me. In that instant, I realized how much I missed her smiling at me. How much I missed her looking at me.

As the evening progressed, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. The curtains were drawn back to reveal Alya's design—a sleek, sophisticated car that embodied innovation and elegance. The audience erupted in applause, and Alya was quickly ushered onto the stage to speak about her creation.

"Good evening, everyone," she began, her voice steady and filled with emotion. "I'm incredibly honoured and excited to share this moment with all of you. This design represents not just months of hard work, but also a vision of what the future of automotive excellence can be."

She spoke eloquently about her inspiration, the challenges she faced, and the team's effort behind the scenes. Her words were met with enthusiastic applause and admiration. I watched her, mesmerised by her ability to captivate and inspire those around her.

When she finished, I stepped onto the stage to join her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Let's hear it again for Alya Rastogi, the brilliant mind behind this incredible design," I said, leading another round of applause.

Alya looked up at me, her eyes shining with gratitude and a hint of something deeper. "Thank you," she mouthed, and I nodded, feeling a warmth spread through me.

After the formal presentations and speeches, the evening transitioned into a more relaxed celebration. Guests mingled, enjoying the exquisite hors d'oeuvres and champagne that flowed freely. I noticed Alya standing alone for a moment, taking in the room with a serene expression.

Seizing her alone, I made my way over to her, a small bouquet of white roses in hand that I asked my assistant to prepare for the evening. "For you," I said, presenting the flowers with a smile.

Alya's eyes widened in surprise and delight. "Alex, these are beautiful! Thank you," she said, taking the bouquet and breathing in the sweet fragrance.

"Congratulations!," I replied softly. "Tonight is all about celebrating your incredible talent and hard work."

She looked up at me, her expression softening. "I am so happy tonight it's perfect, it's everything I thought it would be. Even this flowers are pretty, thank you, you didn't have to though."

"I wanted to ," I said, meeting her gaze. "You've worked so hard for this, and I'm really proud of you."

For a moment, we stood there in silence, the noise of the party fading into the background. There was a connection between us, something unspoken yet profoundly felt. It was a moment of quiet intimacy amidst the chaos, and I cherished it.

As the band began to play a slow, romantic tune, I extended my hand to Alya. "May I have this dance?"

She hesitated for a moment, then smiled and placed her hand in mine. "I'd like that."

We moved to the dance floor, the soft lighting creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. As we swayed to the music, I held her close, feeling the rhythm of her heartbeat against mine.

"You're really good at this now," Alya said, looking up at me with a playful smile.

"I've had some practice didn't want to just sit aside again when you are dancing your night away, like back in the sangeet," I replied, returning her smile. "But dancing with you in my arms, I think you're making me look better than I am."

She laughed softly, the sound sending a shiver down my spine. "I doubt that."

As we danced, the world seemed to fade away. It was just the two of us, moving in sync, our bodies and hearts perfectly aligned. The connection between us was undeniable, and I found myself drawn to her in a way I hadn't expected.

"Alya," I began, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'm really glad you're here tonight. And not just because of the success of this project. I mean... I'm glad you're here with me."

She looked up at me, her eyes searching mine. She smiled softly.

We continued to dance, the music weaving a spell around us. It was a moment of pure magic, a glimpse into a future that held the promise of something more. Maybe one day we can be more than friends again.