JOURNEY OF LOVE

Chapter 16

Kabir entered Vikram's office, today he had opted for a more casual look—a deep navy blue dress shirt, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, paired with slim-fit charcoal trousers. His dark hair was neatly styled, though not as rigid as it usually was for corporate meetings, and the scent of his cologne was understated but clean. His shoulders still squared off as he moved, the natural confidence that seemed to flow effortlessly from him casting a quiet authority over the room.

Vikram's office reflected his personality—modern, sharp, but with just enough warmth to make it inviting. Glass walls gave a view of the city skyline, and minimalist furniture accented by a few personal touches—a bonsai tree on the windowsill, a framed family photo, and an old chessboard on a side table—completed the space.

He leaned back casually in his chair as Kabir walked in. He was wearing a dark grey shirt, buttoned up just enough to look professional, but the absence of a tie made it clear he wasn't a stickler for formality today. His sleeves were rolled up, revealing a sturdy wristwatch and a couple of faint tattoos peeking from under his cuffs.

He looked up and smirked, pushing himself up to stand in a smooth, unhurried motion. "Finally, Mr. Singhania has arrived," he joked, his tone carrying a hint of the familiarity that only comes from years of friendship.

Kabir raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Still on time, aren't I? I know better than to leave the city's top lawyer waiting."

Vikram shrugged, walking around his desk to meet him. "I don't know, Mr. Singhania. Ever since you became this high-profile businessman, I sometimes wonder if you still have time for us common folk." His voice was teasing, but there was genuine warmth in his eyes.

They shared a quick, firm handshake, which ended in a brief clap on the back—an easy, wordless gesture that summed up years of camaraderie. There was no need for formal greetings or awkward pleasantries they knew each other too well.

They'd met years ago, at a dull family function. Both of their fathers were good friends from law school, and they'd dragged the boys along. Vikram, bored out of his mind, had suggested sneaking out, and Kabir, usually the obedient one, had surprised himself by agreeing. They had spent the evening exploring the gardens outside, away from the stuffy adult chatter, and that night had been the start of their friendship—a friendship that had lasted through years of school mischief and late-night study sessions.

Now, here they were, both successful in their fields—one a respected lawyer, the other a prominent businessman. But despite the changes, the friendship had endured.

Vikram's face turned more serious as he gestured for Kabir to sit, moving back behind his desk. He slid a folder toward him, the weight of it landing with a soft thud.

"So, here's the infamous contract you requested," Vikram said, opening the folder to reveal a stack of papers filled with precise, legal wording. "I went over everything we discussed, but I added a little something of my own in there."

Kabir raised an eyebrow as he opened the folder. The contract was written with Vikram's usual attention to detail, every clause outlined in meticulous legal language. It was surreal to see the terms of his marriage laid out like a business transaction.

Contractual Marriage Agreement

This Contractual Marriage Agreement ("Agreement") is made by and between Kabir Singhania, hereinafter referred to as "Party A," and Sia Malhotra, hereinafter referred to as "Party B".

1. Purpose of the Agreement

1.1 The purpose of this Agreement is to establish a legally recognized marriage between Party A and Party B to fulfill family, social, and business obligations.