The Mafia heart ( book 1 )

chapters 14 The Silent Day at the Luxury Shopping Center

The luxury shopping center shimmered under the bright lights, its polished floors gleaming, with rows of high-end boutiques displaying some of the most extravagant items money could buy. Vikram led Mehek in through the grand entrance, keeping a light hand on her shoulder to guide her gently.

Once they stepped inside, he looked around and noticed an empty seat in the center of a lavish boutique. He guided Mehek there, gesturing for her to sit.

"Just relax here for a while, Mehek," he said with a warm smile. "Today's all about you. I want to see you happy, alright?"

Mehek glanced around uncertainly but nodded quietly, taking a seat. Her hands were neatly folded in her lap, and she appeared almost lost among the displays of glittering jewels, silk scarves, and designer handbags. She kept her gaze low, occasionally glancing up, but each time Vikram caught her eye, she quickly looked away, as if unsure of how to react.

Vikram, noticing her discomfort, leaned closer and whispered, "There's no need to be shy. Whatever catches your eye-don't hesitate, okay?"

She nodded slightly, but Vikram could see her unease, and it made him pause for a moment.

Just then, Arman strolled over with a teasing grin on his face, nudging Vikram with his elbow. "Vikram, you know... this is the first time I've ever seen you like this. Trying to win a girl over with diamonds and pearls?"

Vikram rolled his eyes at his friend, though a faint smile crept across his lips. "Arman, stop. I just want her to enjoy herself. She deserves a day like this."

"Sure, sure," Arman chuckled, crossing his arms. "But, you do realize she hasn't said a single word since she got here, right? She looks like she'd rather be anywhere else in the world."

Vikram's expression softened as he looked over at Mehek. She sat stiffly, her hands clutching the sides of the chair, looking as though she was waiting for a reason to leave. Her eyes kept darting from one display to another, but she didn't seem interested in anything at all.

Before Vikram could say anything, a well-dressed saleswoman approached, her arms full of exquisite jewelry pieces. She placed a diamond necklace on the table in front of Mehek, its facets glittering under the showroom lights.

"Miss, we have some of our finest pieces today. I think you'll love these," the saleswoman said, her voice filled with confidence. She placed the necklace down delicately. "This one, crafted with the finest diamonds... Isn't it just stunning?"

Mehek looked at the necklace briefly but didn't touch it. She nodded politely, her face expressionless, and quickly looked down at her hands.

Vikram frowned slightly and leaned forward, speaking softly. "You don't like it?"

Mehek glanced up at him, her eyes unsure. "It's... it's beautiful," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "But it's... it's too much, Vikram."

The saleswoman paused, her smile faltering just a bit. "Not a problem! We have more options, of course," she said, maintaining her professional tone. She carefully placed the necklace back in its case and instead took out a delicate sapphire bracelet. "How about this one? It's understated, but very elegant."

Meanwhile, Arman was watching the entire scene with a smirk, his amusement barely contained. He leaned over to Vikram, whispering, "You might be aiming a bit high here, my friend. She's barely looking at any of this."

"Just... give it a minute," Vikram replied, still focused on Mehek. "She's probably just... adjusting."

Kartikeye, who had been standing a few steps behind, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings, moved a bit closer. His gaze flickered between Vikram and Mehek as he observed the scene.