[SHORT STORY]
I stormed outside and he followed me. I stopped after reaching near my car and turned back to look at him.
"What the fuck do you think you are doing." I yelled at him but there was no answer but an intense glare. I turned back and mas...
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LAVANYA
I lay there, staring at the ceiling, my thoughts tangled in the memories of last night. The warmth of Ekaksh's touch, the way he looked at me—none of it felt right anymore. I couldn't let myself dwell on it; I needed to move forward.
With a sharp intake of breath, I threw off the blankets and got out of bed, feeling the cool air on my skin. The chill was a reminder that I was still here, still in control. I headed straight for the bathroom, my steps purposeful, almost defiant.
As the hot water poured over me, I let it wash away the confusion and regret. The steam surrounded me, and for a moment, I felt like I could breathe again. This was my time, my space to think clearly.
I scrubbed away every trace of last night, determined to leave it behind. I couldn't let myself get caught up in what had happened; I had to be strong, had to be the Lavanya who didn't let emotions get the best of her.
After the shower, I wrapped myself in a towel, staring at my reflection in the mirror. The woman looking back at me seemed different—more resolute, more determined.
I quickly dried off and picked out an outfit that screamed confidence: a crisp blue blouse tucked into tailored white pants. It was a look that said I was in control, that I wasn't going to let anyone, least of all Ekaksh, shake me.
I grabbed my phone and typed out a message, keeping it short and to the point.
"We need to talk. Meet me at Café Noir at 2 PM. I'll make the reservation."
I hit send without hesitating, knowing I couldn't allow this to drag on any longer. He had to understand that last night was a mistake, and I needed to put distance between us.
By the time I arrived at Café Noir, I was fully composed. The ambiance was chic, with dark wood accents and low lighting. It was the perfect place for a difficult conversation—neutral territory.
I chose a table in the back, where we wouldn't be overheard, and waited. I had to do this—I had to end whatever this was between us. Last night had been a mistake, one I couldn't afford to repeat.
When Ekaksh finally walked in, his presence seemed to suck the air out of the room. He spotted me instantly and made his way over, his expression a mix of concern and uncertainty. I braced myself, knowing this wasn't going to be easy.
"Lavanya," he greeted me as he sat down, his voice soft.
"Ekaksh," I replied, keeping my tone as neutral as possible. "Thank you for coming. I'll get straight to the point. You're fired."
His eyes widened, and for a moment, he looked genuinely stunned. "Lavanya, you can't be serious."
"Be serious, Mr. Ekaksh. This is a professional meeting, I guess." I replied, trying to sound as confident as possible.
