Manan : U complete me ✔️

A Shock

(Nandini's POV) Spending weekend with Manik proved to be very different. I never expected him to open up about his family. He seemed kind of sweet. Not a cynical a*s that he shows himself to be. He looked happy; not all irritated and ice cold. If he were like that even a bit social as he was with his family, I would have fallen for him long back. My mind wavered. He is attractive. He was completely in formals for dinner but very casual when he came to take Navya for shopping. A T-shirt and Jeans has never suited anyone better compared to people I have seen and been with. He carried himself so well, there was something raw and sensual about him. On top of that, spoiling Navya was indeed a sight to see. I don't think even Cabir would do that. He treats his loved ones completely opposite to how he treats others.

As much as I am attracted to him, I cannot afford to fall in love with him. He will only hurt me and make me cry. Besides, I don't think I can ever have a normal relationship, not with him, not with anybody. Everytime I thought of that, I became depressed. I resolved that I would never feel why me at any point of time I life but being with Manik brings out my fear, my insecurities, my inferiority complex. I don't know how many times I felt helpless when I am with him. Why do I have to deny myself from falling in love with him? Why am I such a coward? Why do I hide myself among the glitters of this society? Everytime I think about this I feel like crying. I don't want to feel like this anymore. I just hope that I will split away from Manik as soon as possible. I shouldn't get too close to him.

After we got back, work got the better of us. We ate our food together and stayed formal to each other. That ease and comfort we felt when travelling and in the city was nowhere discovered after which maybe for the better. Not maybe, it is for the best.

Few days later, he suddenly started to talk during lunch that we had together as usual.

(Manik) "So, Nandini, what are your hobbies?"

(Nandini) "Why?" Why so suddenly?

(Manik) "Nothing really. Actually, I have a request to make." As if it would have been his genuine interest!

(Nandini) "And that would be?"

(Manik) "Can you be my partner for the Company's annual party?"

(Nandini) "Get an escort." Oh my! I shouldn't have said that. His face grew rigid and eyes looked distant and cold.

(Manik) "I would, if I had not been engaged for sometime. So what is your answer again?" I could only bite my lips. His attitude sent shivers in me. All because of my reply.

(Nandini) "I will come. I will stay at Cabir's place."

(Manik) "The event spreads over three days. You cannot leave until the party is over. Hence, room has been booked for you."

(Nandini) "Fine." He didn't talk after that. It felt like he didn't want anything to do with. All I could do is stay grumbly and dejected. All because of dad! No, I cannot blame him. He asked me whether I wanted to get away from this project. Like a fool, I said no. Really, why me!

(Manik's POV) About a month after visiting my home, Nandini and I started travelling together again. I can say that the relationship has not worsened. What do I want from this, I don't know clearly now. But feelings as muddled still grow. Three day stay and parties and get-togethers, an irritant but a necessity. It is hosted in our family hotel and rooms were booked for our family.

First day was for present and future business associates.

While waiting in the hall, talking with people, Nandini came down rather quietly, dressed absolutely stunning, went straight to Cabir. Even if he is her cousin, I am her fiancé. Isn't it natural to come to me first? I went to get her. She didn't resist joining me but she definitely showed her reluctance. She was introduced to many people. I don't know what I am doing! Why am I introducing her when I have no intention of committing to the engagement?