Head over Heels ☑️

Chapter 22 - Khushi

🎶 Capital Letters - Hailee Steinfeld

Khushi stepped into the warm and inviting ambiance of Fuego Grill, the restaurant nestled by the beach with its open-air seating and soft, flickering lanterns. The scent of grilled seafood and freshly baked bread mingled with the salty breeze, creating an atmosphere both cozy and luxurious.

It was almost dusk, and the dying light cast its final rays on the restaurant. Khushi's gaze wandered over the large semi-circular tables that were nestled in an arc around a large arena where the Boduberu performers were preparing for their act.

The rhythmic sound of drums echoed faintly in the background as the performers warmed up, dressed in traditional Maldivian attire.

"This is lovely," Khushi murmured, glancing at Arnav-ji with a smile. Frida guided them to the centermost booth and she slid in followed by Arnav-ji.

"The performance will begin shortly," said Frida, clasping her hands together in a polite gesture. "Meanwhile, our servers will walk you through the menu, while they serve you, please don't hesitate to call on me. I shall take your leave now, I hope you enjoy your dinner!"

Khushi smiled when Frida handed them the menus, gave a slight bow and departed.

"There's so much seafood," she whispered with her brows furrowed, looking slightly overwhelmed.

Arnav-ji chuckled, leaning closer. "That's because we're on an island, Khushi. But don't worry, I've got you covered."

When the server returned, Arnav-ji placed their order with his usual confidence. For her, he selected a spread of vegetarian delights: fresh garden salads, roasted vegetables, and a platter of wood-fired flatbreads topped with locally sourced ingredients. For himself, he ordered a seafood platter that included grilled lobster, seared tuna, and prawns.

Their food arrived shortly, the vibrant colors of the dishes as appetizing as their aroma. Khushi dug in with enthusiasm, savoring each bite of her perfectly cooked vegetarian meal, while Arnav enjoyed the flavors of the ocean.

As the server disappeared, the lights shifted to the arena, casting them in shadows as the Boduberu performance began. The stage came alive with the deep rhythmic pounding of drums, accompanied by energetic singing and clapping. The performers moved with a synchronized fervor, their motions telling stories of the Maldives' rich heritage.

Khushi was captivated, her eyes wide with wonder. She leaned forward slightly, her hands resting on the table as she took it all in. "It's incredible," she said loudly, her voice almost drowned out by the drums.

"It sure is," came a voice from their right.

They turned to find Mr. and Mrs. Verma seated on the adjacent curved table. Raghu-ji smiled at them, gesturing to the dancers while Rima-ji gazed at the performance with hooded eyes.

Khushi returned the smile enthusiastically. Arnav-ji clapped and she whipped her head back toward the dancers and groaned inwardly at having missed the final act.

"We shall take a small break," announced the host, taking center stage while the dancers retreated to indulge in refreshments. "While we wait, the servers will be around to take your orders. We also offer a unique experience where you can make up a cocktail of your choice with the plethora of drinks we have to offer. It's an open bar! Please help yourselves and we shall soon return with another mind blowing performance."

"Why are we paying so much to make our own drinks, eh?" guffawed Raghu-ji, glancing between the bar and Arnav-ji.

"Didn't you hear the guide?" interjected Rima-ji, a vein pulsing on her temple. "It's just an option."