Aarohi And Dev

CHAPTER 39

Aarohi POV

As I prepared for the day, yesterday's memories were so vivid and clear that just thinking of him made my heart race. Glancing in the mirror, I spotted a small maroon mark on my neck, and the memories instantly resurfaced, making me blush. I concealed it with foundation and opted for a high-neck dress to avoid any potential controversies and sidelong glances from my family.

While driving to university with Tara, we decided to visit a café. To ease his worries, I texted him about our plans.

"Have Rajveer and Mayank resolved their issues?" Tara asked, pulling me from my reverie.

I immediately recalled my last conversation with Mayank, where he confessed his confusion about Rajveer and hinted at an impending wooing stunt. I smiled, imagining what Rajveer was about to experience, fully aware of Mayank's mischievous plan.

"I think everything is going to be alright," I assured Tara, trying to ease her anxiety. "I hope so. Rajveer is such a poor communicator, and so is Mayank. Who knows what's going to happen," she said in a dramatic tone.

"Exactly, let’s hope everything works out for them," I replied, looking at Tara with a hopeful expression.

"Well, you're not exactly a great communicator yourself, Tara. I pity your future man," I teased, matching her dramatics.

"That's why I don't need anyone," she said, her voice tinged with a weariness that went beyond the surface. She seemed exhausted from reality, from betrayal, and from always being the one to make an effort. But deep down, I knew she was tired of being alone. I just hoped she would find the best man, someone who could teach her the true meaning of love and care, just as Dev had shown me.

I nodded, unsure of how to respond and not wanting to prolong a conversation she wasn't comfortable with.

When we arrived at the university, Rajveer was already waiting, with no sign of Mayank. Tara, as usual, discarded the chocolate, note, and a rose that had been left for her, and we started our day. For nearly six months, Karthik had been leaving these tokens without fail, hoping to change Tara's feelings toward him. Yet Tara, steadfast and unwavering, had never once given him any hope.

A few minutes later, Mayank arrived, and the atmosphere shifted noticeably. He looked... different. His style had transformed, making him appear more approachable, and I couldn’t help but think about his plan. Everyone stared at him in shock, while Rajveer's expression clearly indicated he was smitten.

Tara, however, seemed unfazed by the change. Narrowing my eyes at her, she leaned in and whispered, "He asked for my help to revamp his style, so I obliged." My girl is a fashionista, admired by everyone for her impeccable dress sense. It was no surprise that Mayank had turned to her for advice.

"What’s with the sudden makeover?" I asked as he settled at the desk beside Rajveer.

"After university, I have a date," Mayank announced, feigning shyness. He was a good actor, but I knew him too well to be fooled.

Rajveer's face turned pale at this revelation, his attention fully captured.

"Why? With whom? When? What about me?" Rajveer bombarded Mayank with questions, and his usual calm demeanour shattered. His voice carried a mix of fear and irritation, making it clear how much he cared for Mayank. I began to feel bad for Rajveer, who genuinely liked Mayank. I shot Mayank a slightly angry look, silently demanding an explanation for this foolishness.

"It's my childhood friend. She treats me so well, so gently, and we communicate perfectly. Our vibes match, so I thought of giving it a try," Mayank said, transitioning from a dramatic to a shy expression. It was clear he was playing a part to provoke a reaction from Rajveer. Although I understood his intention, I still felt bad for Rajveer.