Intensely Twisted Fate

Chapter : 10

Laranya's POV

Preeti has an interview today for her college internship. It's hard to believe it's been nine months since my birthday. That day was different-Shravan by my side, and everything felt right. Ever since then, having him around has been like a dream. No matter the day, no matter how busy, every moment feels perfect. Even Sundays, when we have no plans, we just spend time together doing nothing in particular. Shravan even got to witness my foodie side up close, and I'm glad I had someone who didn't judge when I devoured all my favorite foods.

And then there was that one day in the office, working together on an important project, when Shravan trailed off and mentioned he liked someone. My heart skipped a beat, but I never had the chance to ask him more about this girl. It was almost as if the conversation was unfinished, but with everything going on, I didn't have time to dive into it.

I used to think that women were the ones obsessed with shopping, but Shravan has proven me wrong. He's almost as crazy about it as I am. We've gone shopping together a few times. He buys stuff for himself, but mostly for his parents. I, on the other hand, buy things for myself and him when I find something I think he'd like. One thing I learned is that he loves taking pictures. I, on the other hand, don't care much about it-I just need someone to take my picture! Our contrasting personalities seem to blend perfectly, and I think it's part of what makes us such a good team. It's fun being a duo.

Sometimes, we spend weekends at my place, and other times, I visit his parents. They're wonderful-so cool and amazing. I love hearing their stories, especially Shravan's childhood ones that always make him blush. I never imagined life could be this fulfilling, this perfect.

Now, I'm sitting with Shravan in his secret cabin. No longer the boss's secretary assistant, Shravan now works full-time as a journalist. He surprised me with the news the day after my birthday, and I couldn't be happier for him. We've spent countless hours together in this cabin, and despite the busy schedule, I love being here with him. I tap my foot, waiting for Preeti's call, knowing it'll come soon. Shravan's equally excited because he's been helping Preeti with her studies for her upcoming exam. He's been tutoring her on weekends, going out of his way to help her understand difficult topics. Sometimes, out of sheer boredom, I poke my head into her books, which always annoys her, but Shravan-he's different. He doesn't mind me hanging around, and that's why I always end up reading along with him.

As I'm lost in my thoughts, my phone rings, snapping me back to reality. It's Preeti. I quickly put it on speaker.

"Di, I did it! They accepted me, and they're even paying me for the internship!" Preeti's excited voice fills the room, and I smile at Shravan, even though Preeti can't see it.

"I'm so happy for you, Preeti!" I tell her. "Soon, you'll be busy working just like me!"

"Di, come on. Not everyone who works is like you. You're always glued to your laptop. But don't worry, I'm sure I'll be meeting some handsome guys during my internship. I hope I find someone as cute as Shravan to date!" she teases.

I quickly put my phone on my headset to keep Shravan from hearing her silly remarks. "Do it, who knows, maybe you and Shravan are out on secret dates already."

Preeti's teasing is relentless, but I'm in no mood to entertain her right now. "Preeti, I have work to do. Bye, and congratulations again!" I end the call quickly before she can go any further.

I glance over at Shravan, feeling a little guilty about Preeti's teasing. "I'm sorry, Shravan. She's just, ugh, I don't know what to say."

Shravan smiles at me, reassuring me. "Don't worry, Lara. She passed the interview. That's the important thing. And now, she'll be able to help you too, so you won't have to carry all the responsibility on your own." He pats my arm, trying to comfort me.