fake boyfriend

Chapter 6

Nandini's POV:

I woke up to the smell of fresh coffee wafting through the house. The faint clatter of dishes in the kitchen told me Dad was already up, getting ready for his day.

 He always made breakfast for the both of us—a small routine that had remained ever since Mom passed away.

I threw on a loose hoodie and jeans before heading downstairs. Dad was in the kitchen, humming a tune as he flipped pancakes on the griddle. His glasses were slightly crooked, as usual, and he had a little smear of flour on his cheek. It was these small, imperfect moments that made me appreciate him even more.

"Morning, Dad," I greeted.

"Morning, Nandu," he said, giving me a warm smile. "You're up early today. Big plans?"

I hesitated for a second. I hadn't told him about the whole fake relationship thing with Manik. I didn't want him worrying about me, especially with something so... unconventional. Dad had always been protective. I didn't want to add to his worries.

"Yeah, just, uh... busy day ahead," I replied.

"Busy? With what?" he asked, placing a stack of pancakes on the table.

"School stuff, you know. Some extra classes, and, uh, maybe hanging out with friends later." I tried to sound casual, but I could feel his eyes on me, trying to read between the lines.

Dad nodded, though his expression turned thoughtful. "You're hanging out with friends more often these days. That's good, Nandu. You've been keeping to yourself a lot lately."

I nodded, trying to keep my smile from wavering. Dad was always perceptive. He could tell when something was off, but thankfully, he didn't press further.

"So," he said, sitting down across from me, "anything else you want to tell me?"

I shook my head, quickly stuffing a piece of pancake into my mouth to avoid any more probing questions.

He chuckled, taking a bite himself. "Alright. Just remember, you can tell me anything, Nandu. I'm always here."

"I know, Dad," I said, my voice softer. "Thanks."

As we finished breakfast, I felt a pang of guilt. I hated keeping things from him, but I just needed to figure this out on my own. I cleared the dishes and gave him a quick hug before heading back to my room to get ready.

I picked out a casual blue dress with white sneakers, something simple yet cute enough to pass for someone who's "dating" Manik Malhotra. I gave myself a once-over in the mirror and sighed. 

Just as I was about to leave, Dad called out from the kitchen, "Be safe, Nandu. And have fun."

"I will, Dad," I called back, grabbing my bag and heading out the door.

My phone buzzed just as I stepped outside.

"Outside. - M"

Of course, he was punctual. I hurried down the steps and grabbed my favorite strawberry drink, and there he was, leaning against his car, looking effortlessly cool. He was in a black T-shirt and jeans, a look that seemed to suit him perfectly.

"Morning, Kapoor!" he greeted me with a grin as I approached.

"Morning, Malhotra," I replied, trying to sound casual.

"Nice dress," he commented as I got into the car.

"Thanks," I mumbled, trying to hide the blush creeping up my cheeks.

The drive to school was filled with light random jokes

manik : what's that?

" oh! this. it's my favorite drink. amm.. you wanna try " I say and passhing my drink He takes a sip and looks at me impressed.