Bridging Hearts

4. Whoa, Easy There

Her

As I watched Dante step out of his room, adjusting his watch, we made eye contact. I couldn't resist rolling my eyes at the sight of him looking so polished.

"Hey, Bhaiya!" I called out as I walked into the living room. "You should come with us. It'll be fun!"

Bhaiya looked up from his laptop and shook his head. "I can't, Tara. I have to prepare for the upcoming meeting. You know how important it is."

"But it'll be more fun with you," I insisted, giving him my best puppy-dog eyes.

He chuckled, clearly not buying it. "Nice try, but I really need to focus. Besides, I think you and Dante could use some bonding time."

I glanced at Dante, who was watching our exchange with mild interest. "Are you sure, Bhaiya? Maybe Dante should stay here with you."

"No way," Bhaiya said firmly. "Dante, you should go enjoy the city for the day. Tara's a great guide."

Dante hesitated, then nodded. "Alright, if you're sure. I'll take your word for it."

"Great!" I said, clapping my hands together. "Let's get going, then."

As we stepped out of the house, I could already feel the energy of Kolkata pulsing around us. The city was alive, and I was eager to show Dante all it had to offer. But as we started walking, I could sense his reluctance.

"Ready for an adventure, Dante?" I asked, trying to keep things light.

No reply. He was scrolling on his phone.

I rolled my eyes. "Alright, then. Let's see if you can keep up."

Our first stop was the Victoria Memorial. The majestic white marble structure stood out against the blue sky, surrounded by sprawling gardens and fountains.

"So, this is the Victoria Memorial," I said, gesturing to the grand monument. "Pretty impressive, right?"

Dante nodded, looking up at the structure. "It's definitely something. What's next, Petardo?"

I shot him a look but decided to let it slide. "Next, we're heading to Howrah Bridge. It's one of the city's landmarks."

As we made our way to the bridge, the busy streets of Kolkata unfolded around us. The cacophony of honking cars, bustling vendors, and the aroma of street food filled the air. This trip was getting more frustrating. Dante's dry wit was getting on my nerves, and it wasn't long before we were exchanging barbs.

"You know, you could try to enjoy yourself, Mr. Grump" I said, a hint of irritation in my voice.

"I am enjoying myself," he replied. "Just not in the same over-the-top way you are."

"Over-the-top? Really?" I retorted. "Just because I'm not brooding silently like you doesn't mean I'm over-the-top."

"Brooding, huh? That's a new one," he said with a smirk.

I sighed. "You know what, let's just get to the next spot."

Our next stop was New Market for some shopping. The narrow lanes were packed with stalls selling everything from trinkets to clothes, the air thick with the scent of street food and the chatter of vendors. I figured Dante might appreciate the eclectic mix of shops and stalls, but he seemed more interested in pointing out the flaws in my navigation skills.

"Are you sure this is the right way, Petardo?" he asked, glancing around skeptically.

"Yes, I'm sure," I snapped. "I've lived here my whole life, remember?"