Tere Liye

Akshara

The sun dipped low in the sky, casting long shadows across the busy streets of the city. I stood in front of the café, my heart racing as I glanced at the time on my phone. I was early, a rare occurrence for someone who always seemed to be running behind. Today was different; today, I was meeting him.                                  

Aditya Kapoor. The name alone sent chills down my spine. A businessman known for his ruthlessness, his reputation preceded him everywhere. I had heard stories—whispers of his cold demeanor and how he instilled fear in those around him. I couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension as I pushed open the door to the café, the bell chiming softly above me.

The interior was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the storm brewing in my chest. I chose a table near the window, hoping the bustling ambiance would calm my nerves. I ordered a chai, trying to distract myself as I waited.

Minutes passed, stretching into what felt like hours. Just as I was beginning to doubt his arrival, the door swung open, and in walked Aditya. He was taller than I had imagined, with a commanding presence that seemed to draw the attention of everyone in the café.  I was mesmerised by his breath taking looks. But it's not just his looks or his presence; it's the way he carries himself, like he's always one step ahead, a master of the game. His dark eyes scanned the room before landing on me, and for a brief moment, time stood still.

"Akshara Sharma?" he asked, his voice smooth yet edged with an authority that sent a shiver down my spine.

"Yes," I replied, rising to greet him. He extended a hand, and I took it, feeling the coolness of his grip. It was a handshake that felt more like a challenge than a greeting.

"Thank you for coming," he said, his tone polite but distant.

"Of course," I managed to say, though my heart raced in the silence that followed. He took a seat across from me, and I could feel the tension building like a coiled spring.

"Is this your favorite place?" he asked, glancing around the café.

"It's nice," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "I come here often."

Aditya nodded, but I could see his attention drifting. It was as if he were sizing me up, trying to gauge my worth before making any further moves. I had read about his business dealings and the way he operated—cold, calculated, and always in control. But I wouldn't let him intimidate me.

"Why did you agree to meet me?" he asked abruptly, his eyes narrowing slightly. "You could have easily declined."

I hesitated, unsure how to respond. The truth was, I didn't want to be here, but my family had insisted. "I thought it was important to meet," I finally said, pushing my hair behind my ear.

"Important for whom?" he pressed, his voice rising slightly. "Your family? Or you?"

"Both, I suppose," I replied, my annoyance flaring. "This is about more than just you and me."

"Then let's be clear, Akshara," he said, leaning forward. "I'm not interested in playing games. If you're here to fulfill some obligation, just say it. I don't have time for half-hearted meetings."

His words felt like a slap, and anger surged within me. "You think you can just walk in here and dictate the terms? This isn't a business deal, Aditya! You're not the only one with expectations."

"Then what do you expect?" he shot back, frustration evident in his tone. "Do you want sympathy? I'm not here to cuddle you. This isn't a fairy tale."

"Fairy tale?" I scoffed, crossing my arms. "You think this is a joke? I didn't want to be part of this arrangement any more than you did. But here we are, forced into a meeting because of our families. So don't act like you're the only one suffering."