The Serendipitous Encounter

Chapter 20 - Treat

In the evening Theodore came to pick Saraswati when he found her already waiting in the lane. He was about to come out but Saraswati went to his car and stood there knocking on the window.

"Please Come in Petal." his tongue slipped looking at her spotless beauty. Her eyes were too much to speak.

"W..What?"she scrunched her eyes

"I..I mean you look like a fresh green petal in this green dress..so..my tongue slipped sorry if I brother you." he was awkward when he heard a loud laughter. He looked at Saraswati who was having a hard time controlling her laugh.

"I..I..Oh Theo...you are such a cutie.." and the car jerked back when the driver looked at Saraswati like she had grown two horns.

Theodore glared at the chauffeur and nodded him to continue the drive

As they stepped outside the restaurant, the vibrant city lights of New York reflected off the wet pavement, creating a dazzling array of colors. Saraswati paused, her eyes sparkling with mischief, and handed Theodore a mask and a cap. "Put these on," she instructed, a playful grin spreading across her face.

"I don't want anyone recognizing us tonight. Let's keep the mystery alive."Saraswati chimed

"But why?"

"I am with you and you are a famous businessman, I think when they spot you with me they would assume and make up unusual stories. I am from a middle class Indian family and my parents trust me a lot. I don;t want any kind of misunderstanding." she said slowly but Theodore heard. He smiled and mentally appreciated her concerns towards her family.

Theodore's heart swelled with affection as he complied, pulling the mask over his face and adjusting the cap. His pulse quickened, not from the disguise itself, but from the thrill of sharing this secret adventure with her.

"It's okay but I should be look handsome in these." he said and Saraswewati again laughed

"Self obsessed person." she shook her head and sauntered ahead

"Neah obsessed with you Saras." he whispered when she came back and pulled him with her. He was robotically going wherever she was pulling him.

As he looked at her through the fabric of the mask, his eyes brimmed with admiration. Her beauty, both in appearance and spirit, seemed to shine even brighter in the night, her laughter a melody that lingered in the air. Every gesture, every smile from her was a treasure, a moment he wished to capture and keep forever.

Saraswati and Theodore meandered through the bustling streets of New York City, the energy of the city enveloping them in a whirlwind of lights and sounds.

Saraswati had recently been selected for a prestigious program at a top-tier lab, a significant achievement she wanted to celebrate. However, she felt a bit self-conscious about her financial limitations, unable to splurge on a fancy dinner at one of the city's upscale hotels.

She had chosen instead a quaint little restaurant tucked away in one of the city's less glitzy neighborhoods. The place was unpretentious, with checkered tablecloths and a warm, homey ambiance.

It wasn't the high-standard dining experience one might expect in such a vibrant metropolis, but for Saraswati, it was perfect for a cozy celebration. As they walked towards the Indian restaurant, she expressed her gratitude to Theodore for accompanying her, apologizing for the humble venue. She explained, "I know it's not the fanciest place, but I wanted to do something to celebrate. I hope you don't mind my pocket is just allow this."

Theodore, however, was far from disappointed. His heart raced with excitement just being near Saraswati. He had admired her from afar for so long, captivated by her intelligence and kindness.

Though she remained oblivious to his feelings, Theodore found joy in these simple moments they shared. He smiled reassuringly at her, his eyes reflecting genuine warmth.

"I don't mind at all," he said softly. "In fact, I'm just happy to be here with you. The place doesn't matter as much as the company."He rubbed his hands and held her hand.

They entered the restaurant, the cozy interior a stark contrast to the city's hectic pace outside. The air was filled with the aroma of comfort food, and they settled into a corner booth, the dim lighting creating an intimate atmosphere.

They both sat in the farthest corner and Theodore was looking everywhere, hence his bodyguards were also there in common clothes. Saraswati ordered their meal, when he noticed her lips and his gaze stopped their.

Then Theodore's eyes locked onto the waiter, who was licking his lips while Saraswati carefully chose dishes for him.

"Saras, order whatever you get for yourself," Theodore said, his voice edged with control.

"But I eat spicy, Theo," she replied, glancing up.

"It'll do," he insisted, his glare fixed on the waiter still ogling her.

Saraswati doubled the order, oblivious to Theodore's growing anger. She looked up, surprised by the tension in his face. "What's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing," he muttered, discreetly messaging his bodyguard to deal with the waiter. Shortly after, another waiter brought their order, nodding respectfully at Theodore, who finally relaxed, his possessive grip on the situation now secure.

As they began eating, Theodore's eyes softened, but his tone remained firm. "Saras, always tell me if someone bothers you. I'll handle it."

She blinked, a bit puzzled. "Theo, you don't need to worry so much. I can take care of myself."

He reached across the table, gently taking her hand. "I know you can. But you're important to me. I won't let anyone make you uncomfortable."

Saraswati smiled, squeezing his hand. "Thank you, Theo. You're always looking out for me."

As they chatted over their meal, Saraswati shared stories of her lab experiences and aspirations. Theodore listened intently, hanging onto her every word. For him, this moment was a cherished escape, a rare chance to bask in her presence and celebrate her achievements.

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