THE PARADISE OF LIES ✔️

36. FEELINGS

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This chapter won't have Telugu conversations as this part includes only Office part and Mukthi's part. 

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The Days passed in a hurry and Mukthi was busy planning a celebration to mark the progress of their project. With the weekend approaching, she decided it would be a perfect opportunity to ask Vikramaditya to join her for a celebratory outing.

After wrapping up a meeting, Mukthi approached Vikramaditya's office with a casual yet confident demeanor. She was about to knock on his door when she overheard voices in the lobby. Out of Curiosity she paused and peeked out . She saw Vikramaditya and  Vaidehi talking animatedly near the elevator.

Mukthi's heart sank as she watched the scene unfold. Vikramaditya and Vaidehi appeared relaxed and affectionate. They are sharing laughter and gentle touches. Vaidehi even though clearly pregnant is  radiated warmth and happiness. Vikramaditya's face was lit up with a genuine smile as he gently held her hand and whispered something that made her laugh. She saw a spark in Vikramaditya's eyes.

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Mukthi hesitated as she is  feeling a mixture of surprise and frustration. She had intended to ask Vikramaditya to join her for a weekend celebration but now the sight of him with his wife with whom he is so clearly in love made her reconsider her approach. She hated herself for being unable to bury her feelings.

She waited discreetly by trying to process her emotions. After a few moments, the couple seemed to be ready to leave. Mukthi took a deep breath and walked up to them with her smile which seems to be somewhat forced.

Mukthi : Vikram ! Vaidehi ! Hi ! 

she greeted by trying to sound casual. 

Mukthi : I didn't expect to see you here.

Vikramaditya turned with a smile and  clearly happy to see Mukthi. He wrapped his hand around and Vaidehi's waist possesively and spoke , 

Vikramaditya : Oh, hi Mukthi. We were just heading out for the weekend. I was planning to take Vaidehi out for a dinner. I forgot my mobile in office. So, We came to collect it.

Vaidehi's eyes are sparkling as she greeted Mukthi warmly. 

Vaidehi : Hello Mukthi ! How are you ? 

Mukthi nodded by  forcing a smile. 

Mukthi : I'm good, thank you. I was actually just about to ask Vikram if he'd like to join me for a celebration this weekend. We've made some great progress on the project.

Vikramaditya looked thoughtful for a moment. 

Vikramaditya : That sounds like a great idea, Mukthi. But Vaidehi and I have already made plans for the weekend. Perhaps another time ? Let's have blast along with our team ! 

Mukthi felt a twinge of disappointment but nodded understandingly. 

Mukthi : Of course, I understand. Enjoy your evening out.

As she watched them leave, Mukthi's mind raced. She couldn't help but compare herself to Vaidehi, trying to understand why Vikramaditya was so deeply in love with his wife. In Mukthi's eyes, Vaidehi didn't match her own standards of beauty or charm. The contrast made Mukthi question herself and her feelings. 

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Mukthi sat in the lobby all alone and her emotions are swirling. She thought about Vikramaditya's devotion and how genuine it seemed. She admired his commitment but also felt a pang of jealousy and confusion. Why was he so captivated by Vaidehi? Did he not see the potential for a connection with someone like her?