Doomed From The Start: A Marriage Agreement

chapter 39: Catch that hat!

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"Alright! Everyone, get on board!" Rihan hollered, jumping into the bus and waving us in, fully taking charge. The excited crew started filing in, buzzing with anticipation for the short tour planned for that evening.

We had planned to have a leisurely exploration of Goa’s cultural assets and colorful architecture, hoping to give our clients a taste of the region’s vibrant heritage and charm.

We had reserved two tour buses for the entire team, and the excitement was palpable as everyone quickly filled their seats. I found myself sitting behind Mr. and Mrs. Mehta, who were chatting animatedly in the front. The mood in the bus was light, filled with laughter and anticipation for what lay ahead.

Instinctively, I looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Jaanvi before we set off. She was one of the last few to board the bus, her soft curls bouncing as she made her way down the aisle. There were only a few seats left, and Jaanvi took a spot near the window in the back.

She looked stunning as ever, dressed in a fitted mini dress that fell just above her knees, with golden patterns elegantly running up and around the bold cerulean and emerald hues of her soft fabric, giving her an almost ethereal look. A delicate golden necklace adorned her neck, and diamond studs sparkled in her ears, catching the light as she moved.

Her hair fell in soft waves down her shoulders, with tiny silver charms woven into the strands that glimmered with every slight movement. God, she is just so fucking beautiful.

Once again, dumbfounded, I stared at her, wondering how a person could be so beautiful inside and out. My newfound peace was short-lived, as just as Jaanvi sat down near the back, Dilip, that good-for-nothing son of a bitch, swaggered over and slid in next to her. He threw his arm across the back of the seat, leaning in too close to Jaanvi. My stomach twisted with anger as I watched him.

I clenched my fists tightly, glaring daggers at that jackass, who remained completely oblivious to my burning stare, too caught up in leering at Jaanvi as he leaned into her personal space.

Jaanvi seemed completely comfortable with him next to her, and a burning jealousy coiled tightly in my chest. She laughed at something he had said, her eyes lighting up in a way that sent a wave of frustration crashing over me. I ground my teeth; I didn't like him being anywhere near Jaanvi. I don't know why, I just don't.

While I was busy burning a hole through the fucker's head, Tasha slid in next to me and wrapped her hands around my arms, leaning into me. I bristled, internally flinching at the unexpected contact.

Tasha shot me a bored look at my reaction, as if to say, "What now?" I shook my head, leaning back in my seat comfortably and forced my body to relax.

I had almost forgiven Tasha, but still, distaste and disappointment colored my feelings toward her. I just couldn't be casual with her after everything that happened. I don't know if I'll ever be.

"Why are you so tense?" Tasha inquired, leaning in closer as she sensed my discomfort.

"I'm not," I replied, forcing my gaze away from Dilip and Jaanvi before Tasha could catch on to it.

Tasha just rolled her eyes, once again switching back to her disinterested expression as she went back to her phone, dismissing my words.

I released a breath. As the last few people boarded, Rihan gave a thumbs up to the driver, signaling we were ready to go. The bus hummed to life and rolled out into the dusky Goa streets. The evening air was crisp and carried a salty pang of the ocean. Through the windows, I could see the colors of the city shifting under the evening light—warm, golden hues reflecting off the colonial houses and the lush greenery.