"From Rivals to Forever: A Journey of Love"

Chapter 39

Aditi's Perspective

As we settled into our seats, a sense of lightness washed over me. The weight of earlier compliments and attention had faded, replaced by a warm glow of friendship and camaraderie. I glanced over at Kabir, who was seated just a few rows ahead. He was laughing with Raghav and Aditya, but I could see the slight tension in his jaw, a sign that the jealousy was still simmering beneath the surface. There was something undeniably sexy about the way he carried that jealousy—it made him appear more rugged and fiercely protective.

On my left, Raghav leaned in, flashing a grin that was equal parts charming and mischievous. "You know, Aditi," he began, his voice low, "I'm really starting to think you should join a modeling agency. You've got the looks, and that saree? Wow!"

I laughed, playfully rolling my eyes. "Thanks, Raghav, but I think I'll stick to my studies for now."

Aditya, on my right, chimed in, his tone teasing. "Oh, come on! You should take advantage of your beauty. Just imagine—Aditi, the next big thing! You'd leave everyone in the dust."

I shot him a playful glare. "And what about you, Mr. Future Superstar? You'd be left behind, wouldn't you?" My words were light, but there was a spark of flirtation in my tone.

Aditya smirked, leaning back with an exaggerated flair. "I think we both know I'd shine brighter. But if you ever need a partner for those modeling gigs, you can count on me. Just imagine the headlines: 'Aditi and Aditya, the Power Duo!'"

I chuckled, my heart racing a little at the idea. "As long as I get top billing, I'm in!"

Raghav leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Arre, tune meri bhabhi nahi banna kya? Kabir is jealous." His expression was both playful and curious, as if he was trying to gauge my reaction.

I nodded slowly, a smile creeping onto my lips. There was something about the way Raghav teased that made me feel a rush of excitement. The idea that Kabir's jealousy was evident to others only made me more intrigued by what was brewing between us.

The auditorium buzzed with excitement as our teachers announced that all the twelfth graders would be doing a ramp walk. I felt a mix of nerves and thrill surge through me. It was one thing to dress up and look pretty; it was another to strut down a ramp in front of everyone. But the thought of doing it alongside my friends, especially Kabir, gave me a confidence boost.

As the music shifted and the lights dimmed, I took a deep breath, reminding myself to own the moment. I glanced over at Kabir one last time. He was looking directly at me, his expression a mix of encouragement and intensity. I felt my heart race.

We lined up, anticipation crackling in the air. I could hear the murmurs of excitement from the audience, their whispers mixing with the rhythmic beat of the music. Finally, it was my turn. As I stepped onto the ramp, my heart pounded, and I focused on the crowd, trying to exude confidence and grace.

With each step, I felt more alive. The fabric of my saree flowed elegantly around me, catching the light. I noticed familiar faces cheering me on—friends and classmates who were as excited as I was. But the moment my eyes met Kabir's again, I felt a jolt of energy. He looked incredible, his strong frame radiating charisma. His eyes held a blend of pride and something deeper, something that made me smile despite my nerves.

After the ramp walk, we gathered back together, and I felt a rush of exhilaration. "How was that?" I asked Raghav and Aditya, my heart still racing.

"Fabulous!" Raghav declared, grinning widely. "You were like a queen up there!"

Aditya leaned in, his gaze playful. "But I think someone was a little jealous, eh, Kabir?" He glanced over at Kabir, a knowing smirk on his face.

Kabir chuckled, but there was a hint of seriousness in his eyes. "Maybe I was just admiring the talent," he replied, a playful edge to his voice.