Accepting Reality

Part 6 - Playing Dirty

In the spacious, modern office of AR Designs, a lively conversation was brewing among a group of friends. Khushi, Lavanya (La), NK, Sahil, and Preetika were gathered around a cluster of desks. Joining them today were Lisa and her friend Vicky, a flamboyant and talented bisexual model who always had a witty comment ready. The topic of their discussion had taken a serious turn, touching on the ethics of sleeping with someone to get ahead in the fashion industry.

Vicky: "Honestly, I think it's just another form of using your assets. In our industry, looks matter, and if someone wants to use that to their advantage, who are we to judge?"

Lisa (nodded): "It's about survival, really. Everyone's trying to make it, and sometimes you have to play the game."

Sahil: "But isn't that just compromising your morals? There has to be a line somewhere."

Khushi: "Well, maybe you need to lighten up, Sahil. If both parties agree, what's the harm? It's a strategic move, like any other."

Sahil: "Khushi, are you saying you would...?"

Khushi: "I'm saying that sometimes you have to do what it takes to get ahead. And who says it's not fun along the way?"

Lavanya: "Oh, come on, Sahil. Besides, if it gets the job done, why not?"

NK: "So, Khushi, are you suggesting you've done this before?"

Khushi (laughed): "A lady never tells. But let's just say, I know how to get what I want."

Sahil, feeling a mix of shock and curiosity, couldn't hold back.

Sahil: "Where did you go after the fashion show last weekend, Khushi? You just disappeared."

Khushi: "None of your business, Sahil. Why are you so interested? Preetika was with you wasn't she?"

La (defending Khushi): "She informed her roommate, and that's me, remember? You were being a bit weird that day, Sahil."

Preetika, sensing the tension, tried to steer the conversation back to safer grounds.

Preetika: "Well, regardless of personal choices, it's important to keep things professional. Everyone has their own path."

Vicky(leaning forward): "Exactly. And some paths are more fun than others, darling."

Sahil, however, had been observing Khushi closely. He couldn't help but notice how she had been dressing up more provocatively since the fashion show last week. Finally, curiosity got the better of him.

Sahil: "Khushi, why are you so dressed up these days? Especially since the fashion show last week?"

Khushi raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk forming on her lips. Before she could respond, La and NK jumped in.

La: "Oh, come on, Sahil! We work in a fashion house. What's wrong with indulging in a little self-care and looking fabulous?"

NK (chuckling): "Yeah, Sahil. Maybe you should try it sometime. You know, keep up with the office fashion standards."

The group burst into laughter, enjoying the light-hearted banter.

Lisa: "Seriously, Sahil, have you been living under a rock? Fashion is what we do here!"

Vicky: "And darling, Khushi just knows how to turn heads. Maybe you should take notes."

Khushi: "Sahil, why don't you mind your own business? What I wear or how I look has nothing to do with you. Maybe you should focus on your work instead."

Preetika: "Don't take it personally, Khushi. We all know Sahil means well."

Sahil, looking defeated, stood up and mumbled, "I've got work to do," before quickly leaving the room.