Bridging Hearts

12. Would you like to dance with me?

Her

The moment I stepped out of QuantumTech with Bhaiya, excitement bubbled inside me. I couldn't believe it—Dante Marchetti, Mr. Grump himself, had actually asked me to dinner. Well, it wasn't a date, and it wasn't romantic, but it was still... something.

As we headed to the car, my mind raced with possibilities. Was Dante just trying to smooth things over after our argument, or was there something more? I felt a thrill of anticipation. Maybe tonight I'd see a side of him that wasn't all brooding and scowling.

We settled into the car, the familiar comfortable silence between us. Except tonight wasn't usual—I had plans I wasn't sure how to explain to Bhaiya.

"Hey, Bhaiya," I started, keeping my tone light. "Do you think it's alright if I head out by myself tonight?"

He shot me a quick glance, eyebrow raised. "By yourself? What's the occasion?"

I hadn't prepared a perfect excuse, and saying I was having dinner with his best friend was definitely out of the question. So, I settled for a half-truth. "I just want to explore the area a bit. Get a feel for the surroundings."

Bhaiya gave me a skeptical side-eye but didn't press. "Alright, just keep your phone on and check in now and then."

"Of course, Bhaiya. Promise." Relief washed over me as I smiled at him, my excitement building.

"Don't stay out too late," he warned as we pulled into the driveway.

"No promises!" I teased, hopping out of the car.

Once inside, I raced to my room, thoughts swirling about the evening ahead. I rifled through my wardrobe, discarding options that were too formal or casual. After what felt like ages, I settled on a simple yet flattering red dress that struck the right balance between effortless and elegant.

Next came my hair, which I curled lightly, and a touch of makeup to highlight my features. As I gazed at my reflection, excitement mixed with nerves settled in.

I grabbed my purse and headed for the door. Bhaiya lounged on the couch, flipping through a magazine. He looked up as I approached, his eyes narrowing.

"All this just to check out the surroundings?" he asked, suspicion lacing his voice.

I shrugged, trying to sound casual. "A girl likes to look her best. I'll see you later."

He gave me a long look but eventually waved me off. "Take care, Tara."

With a final smile, I stepped outside into the cool evening air, my heart racing. This was it—whatever this night would turn into, it was about to start.

As I reached the street, I saw Dante beside his sleek black car, checking his watch. He looked serious, his suit perfectly tailored. For a moment, I hesitated, wondering if this was a mistake. But when he met my gaze, the tension melted away.

Him

Standing outside their house, my mind raced. I adjusted my hair for the hundredth time, catching my reflection in the car mirror. Everything had to be perfect tonight. It was dinner with her, and I still wasn't sure how it had come to this. I checked my watch again; the seconds ticked by too slowly.

Anticipation gnawed at me, a strange mix of excitement and nervousness. When had I last felt this way? Probably never.

Then, I heard soft footsteps approaching. I straightened up, turning toward the house. My eyes met hers, and for a moment, time froze. She was breathtaking, like something out of a dream, her dress hugging her figure, hair framing her face perfectly.