When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch 43 A Turning Point

Annika abruptly ended the call with Shivay, her mind preoccupied with the task at hand. She swiftly tucked her phone back into her pocket and hurried towards Aarush, who was struggling to assemble a intricate display.

As she approached, Annika's eyes met Aarush's frustrated gaze. "Let me help you." she said, her voice gentle.

Aarush's expression transformed from annoyance to relief. "Thanks, Annika. I'm not sure what's wrong with me today."

Together, they worked on the display, their hands moving in tandem. As Annika reached for a delicate component, her fingers brushed against Aarush's, sending a subtle shiver down her spine. Her heart fluttered, and she withdrew her hand, focusing on the task.

The brief touch sparked a flutter in Annika's chest, but she pushed aside the feeling, concentrating on helping Aarush.

After a few minutes of collaborative effort, the display began to take shape. Aarush stepped back, admiring their handiwork. "Thanks, Annika. "

Annika smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Anytime, Aarush. Now, I should get back to my task."

With a nod, Aarush returned to his assigned area, leaving Annika to ponder the unexpected spark she felt when their hands touched.

Thirty minutes flew by, with the team making remarkable progress – nearly half the work was complete. Annika surveyed the transformed space, satisfied.

"Time for a break, team!" Annika announced, her voice refreshing amidst the bustling activity. "Ruhi, Rudra, could you please grab some snacks for us? We've earned a recharge since lunch."

Ruhi and Rudra exchanged enthusiastic glances, happy to take a break from their tasks.

"Snack run!" Rudra exclaimed, already heading towards the door.

"Make sure to get something savory and sweet," Annika called out.

"And don't forget drinks!" Aarush added.

As Ruhi and Rudra departed, Annika smiled, anticipating the brief respite.

"This break will give us the energy boost we need to finish strong," Annika said to Aarush, her eyes sparkling with determination.

Aarush nodded, his expression mirroring her enthusiasm. "I'll go upstairs and let the others know to take a break soon."

He headed upstairs, leaving Annika alone for a few moments. Shortly, he returned, saying, "They'll be down in few minutes. They want to finish their current tasks first."

Annika nodded, her voice brief. "Okay."

As they waited, Annika settled into the chair behind the counter, while Aarush sat on the bench designated for customers. He pulled out his phone and became engrossed in scrolling through its contents.

Annika's gaze drifted to Aarush, her eyes observing him with interest. She noted the way his hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck, the focused expression on his face, and the gentle smile playing on his lips.

Suddenly, her mind began to wander, drawing comparisons between Aarush and Shivay.

She thought: Aarush's calm demeanor soothes me, whereas Shivay's intensity often leaves me breathless.

Aarush's kind heart and genuine interest in others make him endearing, but Shivay's mysterious nature keeps me intrigued.

Aarush's smile, though less frequent, radiates warmth, while Shivay's rare smiles hint at hidden depths.