When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch 61. Festival Frenzy

Annika sauntered towards Shivay, her smile radiating an infectious energy. Shivay, still reeling from her previous antics, attempted to compose himself, muttering under his breath, "All will be good."

As Annika reached him, she playfully circled his chair, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She halted behind him, her proximity sending a shiver down Shivay's spine.

Without warning, Annika's slender hands slid around Shivay's neck, her touch sending tingles through his body. Her warm breath whispered against his ear, "Shivay, be ready for the next adventure. You'll never forget it."

Shivay's pulse quickened as he gulped, his voice barely above a whisper, "What's the next adventure, Annika?"

Annika withdrew her hand, her smile still teasing. "You'll know soon enough," she tantalized, her eyes glinting. "First, let's fuel our hunger. You stay here; I'll bring something to eat."

With that, Annika vanished into the bustling festival crowd, leaving Shivay alone in the stall. His mind began to whirl, anticipation building. What did Annika have planned now?

Shivay's thoughts swirled with possibilities: another outrageous outfit, a surprise performance, or perhaps something entirely unexpected. The uncertainty only added to the thrill.

As he waited, Shivay's gaze drifted around the vibrant festival grounds, his senses heightened. The aroma of street food wafted through the air, mingling with the sound of laughter and music.

Shivay's stomach growled, reminding him of his hunger. But his mind remained fixated on Annika's cryptic promise. What lay ahead?

Minutes later, Annika returned, her arms laden with an assortment of steaming food and drinks. She efficiently transformed the stall into a makeshift dining area, arranging chairs to create a table and reserving one for herself.

As she began to unpack the food, Shivay's eyes widened in surprise. His health-conscious sensibilities recoiled at the array of street food: steamed momos, samosa, pav bhaji, noodles and Manchurian, corn pizza, Vada pav, dosa, idli sambhar, and cold drinks.

Shivay's discomfort grew, unsure how to react. He didn't want to offend Annika, who had thoughtfully brought these dishes. Yet, the sheer quantity and variety of junk food made him uneasy.

"Annika, don't you think you brought a bit...less food?" Shivay ventured, his tone laced with sarcasm.

Annika chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "Actually, I thought I hadn't brought enough! My hands could only carry this much. I saw many more items I wanted to try later."

Shivay's lips curled into a wry smile, amused by Annika's playful justification.

Annika handed Shivay a plate filled with steaming dosa and idli sambhar, accompanied by a warm smile. "These are for you," she said, her voice filled with thoughtfulness. "I know you're particular about your diet, and these are the healthiest options here, with less oil."

Shivay's heart swelled with appreciation, touched by Annika's considerate gesture. Even amidst the chaos of the festival, she had remembered his dietary preferences.

"How do you manage to remember everything, Annika?" Shivay asked, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

Annika chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "I don't understand what your stomach is made of, that it can't handle these delicious foods!" She teased, shaking her head.

Shivay's lips curled into a grateful smile. "Thanks, Annika. You're incredible."

As they savored their food, their banter turned playful. Annika pretended to fuss over Shivay's eating habits, while Shivay retaliated with lighthearted jokes about Annika's love for street food.