Qainaat

24

Next day:

Dhara settled into the car, placing her belongings on the passenger seat beside her. She took a moment to look at her reflection in the rearview mirror, smoothing her hair into place before driving off to Rana Co.

Upon reaching her destination, she stepped out of the car, adjusting her outfit—a dark royal blue shirt paired with beige double-pleated pants. A delicate gold heart pendant hung from a thin chain around her neck, and a vintage Cartier watch adorned her left wrist. She took a moment to admire the company building. The last time she had visited with him, she hadn't had a chance to take it all in because he had been walking too fast.

As she entered the building, she was greeted by Anirudh's secretary, who was already waiting for her and promptly guided her to Anirudh's office. After thanking the secretary, she knocked on the door.

'Come in,' called a stern voice from behind the large doors.

Upon entering, Dhara was immediately struck by the seriousness of the space. The office was modern and sleek, with large windows showcasing the city skyline. Bookshelves filled with some books lined the walls, and the air carried the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

Anirudh sat behind a wide desk, intently focused on his computer screen, a pen twirling between his fingers. When he looked up, his sharp black eyes met hers, holding a hint of curiosity. His hair was slicked back with gel, giving him a polished look. He wore a fitted black shirt and pants, his sleeves rolled up to reveal veiny forearms. A chunky silver bracelet and a kalawa adorned his right wrist, while a Rolex graced his left.

Standing up, he pulled out a chair for her, a gesture both courteous and authoritative.

'Hello,' Dhara said, her voice polite but firm.

Anirudh nodded in acknowledgment before reaching for a stack of files and blueprints. He placed them on the desk between them.

'Here—Mr. Dixit sent these,' she said softly, sliding the papers toward herself.

'Oh, Harsh made these already?' Anirudh said, his tone tinged with surprise and admiration as he examined the blueprints she unfolded.

A knock on the door interrupted them.

'Come in,' Anirudh said.

Harsh entered the room with a broad smile, his eyes lighting up when he saw Dhara. He waved at her before shaking Anirudh's hand.

'Hello, Miss—oh, sorry—Dharaji,' Harsh greeted her warmly, taking a seat beside her. Anirudh's eyes narrowed slightly at the sight of Harsh sitting perhaps a bit too close to Dhara for his liking. Something stirred in him—a flicker of something he couldn't quite place—but he let it go, shaking off the unfamiliar feeling.

Dhara returned his smile, feeling more at ease with his friendly presence.

The meeting proceeded, filled with lively discussions and meticulous planning. When they finally concluded, the blueprints were approved, and the project was ready to commence.

As they gathered their things, Harsh turned to Dhara with a hopeful smile. 'Um, last time you had a ride home, but can I drop you off today?'

Dhara hesitated, unsure of how to respond. She glanced around, searching for the right words.

Anirudh interjected smoothly, 'Well, Mr. Dixit, I almost forgot... here.' He handed Harsh a small box of sweets.

Harsh accepted one, curious. 'What's this for?' he asked, taking a bite.