Our Secret Love

7. Closer Than Ever

After the conversation with Arjun, Aarav couldn’t shake off the feeling that this was something real. Kiara was on his mind all day, and he knew it was only a matter of time before he’d want to see her again. By the time he wrapped up work, his fingers were already tapping out a message to her.

Aarav: What are you up to tonight?

Kiara: Are you asking me out, Mr. Mehta?

Aarav: Depends. Are you saying yes, Ms. Kapoor?

Kiara: Tempting… but you’ll have to come up with something better than just dinner.

Aarav smirked at her message, enjoying the playful challenge she’d thrown his way. Kiara wasn’t the type to settle for a simple dinner, and frankly, he wanted something more memorable too. His mind spun with ideas, and within a few minutes, he’d settled on one.

Aarav: Meet me at Central Park in an hour. And don’t worry—it’s not just dinner.

He had barely hit “send” when he saw the three little dots appear, followed by a message that made him laugh out loud.

Kiara: Intrigued… see you there.

---

An hour later, Aarav found himself pacing near the fountain in Central Park, carrying a small bag with something he hoped she’d enjoy. He had prepared a few things for tonight that weren’t quite typical for him, but he figured Kiara was worth it.

When he looked up, he saw her walking toward him, dressed in a casual yet stunning outfit—a simple blouse and jeans, but somehow she managed to make it look effortless. Her hair was loose around her shoulders, and the way she smiled at him as she approached made his heart skip a beat.

"Right on time," he greeted her, trying to keep his voice steady.

“Don’t sound so surprised,” she replied, nudging him with her shoulder. “So, what’s this ‘not just dinner’ thing?”

He pulled out a small blanket from the bag and gestured toward a quiet spot under the trees. “I thought we’d have a little picnic. I brought some snacks and coffee, and… maybe a little surprise.”

Kiara’s eyes lit up as she looked at him, clearly impressed. “Well, color me surprised, Mr. Mehta. A picnic in the park? That’s not what I was expecting.”

They settled on the blanket, and Aarav handed her a small thermos. She took a sip, her eyes closing briefly as she savored the taste. “Mmm, hot chocolate with a hint of cinnamon? Now, I know you did your research.”

He chuckled, shrugging modestly. “I may have picked up a few things from your favorite coffee orders.”

As they chatted, Aarav found himself relaxing in her presence, the usual weight of his responsibilities melting away. There was something about her that made him feel like he could let down his guard, and he realized he hadn’t felt this way in a long time.

“So,” she said, leaning back against the tree and looking at him with a mischievous smile, “what’s with the sudden romance? Are you trying to impress me?”

"Maybe," he replied, his eyes meeting hers with a challenge. "Is it working?"

She laughed, but there was a softness in her expression. “You know, I didn’t expect someone like you to be so… thoughtful. You’re always so serious and focused at the office.”

Aarav looked down, feeling a little vulnerable under her gaze. “I guess I don’t usually show this side to people. It’s easy to get lost in work and forget to just… be myself.”