An Inconvenient Flame

Chapter 38

Abhiraj's pov.

I finally wrap up the online meeting, clicking the "end call" button with a sigh of relief. My head's still buzzing with all the discussions and decisions, but at least it's done. I lean back in my chair, rubbing my temples when Ishika's voice draws my attention.

"Yeah, I was coming for dinner."

"Should we eat in the outdoor lounge, it has a beautiful view?" she asks, a hint of excitement in her tone.

I look up. For a minute my brain stops functioning. Ishika is wearing a teal sundress that clings to her petite frame in a way I've never seen before.

Her hair are tied in a messy bun. She looks different...softer, somehow and, unexpectedly beautiful.

I almost scoffed at myself as soon as I comprehend the thought.

"Shall we?" Ishika bites her lip, unsure of my answer.

I glance from the ceiling window of the living area, the sun is setting, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

It's a beautiful evening, perfect for dining outside. "Hmm, yes," I hum in agreement.

"Great, I'll gather the dishes." She grins in excitement and runs to kitchen.

We gather our plates and head out to the balcony. The outdoor lounge is cozy, with comfortable seating and a stunning view of the Seattle skyline.

I'm glad we've an outdoor patio here. I've always been very particular of the open spaces in my abode, for me they are like my own outdoor haven.

I sit across from Ishika. She has a subtle amount of glow in her eyes, more of an excitement.

I raise my eyebrows at her, "Do you wanna say something?"

"Nothing."

" I can tell there's something you want to say," I press gently, taking a bite of my food. The flavors barely register as I focus on her expression.

Ishika fidgets with her fork, pushing a piece of vegetable around her plate.

"Actually, Abhiraj," she begins, her voice soft, "I didn't even realise how used to I have gotten of being alone, until you both came to Seattle." I set my fork down, giving her my full attention.

"The last eight months..." She pauses for a moment, "they haven't been the best for me. But having you both here, it's... it's nice." She gives me a bright smile, looking all cute and soft.

"We're here now." I say. She nods paying her attention back to her plate.

"Do you want salad?"

I nod. "Sure."

And we start eating in silence. I watch her intently, taking her in the entire time.

Throughout our time apart, the only way I connected with her was through the pages of her diary. 

Now, sitting across from her, those moments and feelings she poured out rushes back to me, feeling more alive than ever.

And I can admit to myself, surrounded by her presence  just how deeply I care for her. she keeps pushing back the hair strands from her face, and her nose scrunch every time they escape from the clutch.

Ishika looks so young with all that make up free face. I wonder how she'll react if I caress her cheeks and her soft brown lips.

I clear my throat, trying to reign in my thoughts, ignoring how refreshing she is and the fact that she's so tiny.