Learning to Love

Chapter 24

“Where are you taking me?” Priya asked, surprised.  She was taken away from the crowd and pulled toward the VIP lounge.   

“Come here.” Aman said pulling her into the empty VIP lounge.

“What are we doing here?” Priya asked, amused.  

Aman didn’t answer her.  He simply watched her, admiring her beauty.  He took a deep breath and walked closer to her.  He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close.  Priya’s eyes widened in surprise.  She tried to move away from him, but his hold on her tightened.   She instinctively looked down.  Aman’s face inched closer to hers.  He searched her eyes for any sign of resistance, but she refused to meet his gaze.  He gently moved her chin up with his fingertips, forcing her to look at him.  He moved closer until they were barely inches apart.  

Aman kissed Priya.

Their lips met, and passion erupted between them.  Priya felt an unfamiliar charge build up inside of her.  Her senses fogged up and she couldn’t think straight.  Her hands rested on Aman’s chest.  One of his hands cupped her cheek as the other arm stayed firmly around her waist.  The kiss was gentle, but passionate.  Suddenly, fireworks beamed over the New York City skyline, as if a celebration of Aman and Priya’s union had commenced.  

Aman gently pulled away, breaking the kiss.  Priya was left breathless.  Colorful lights from the fireworks flooded the room.  Aman smiled at her.  

“Happy New Year, Priya.” he whispered, pressing his lips to her cheek.  Priya blushed.  

“It’s so beautiful here.” Priya said, turning around to watch the fireworks.  

Aman wrapped his arms around Priya, hugging her from behind.  He rested his chin on her shoulder and proceeded to watch the fireworks with her in his arms.  

“To the New Year! Wishing everyone a prosperous year. Let’s hope this year brings more parties, more money, and more love!” Hiten raised a toast, welcoming the new year.  

The crowd raised their glasses and cheered.  Rajiv, who doesn’t drink, and Payal raised their glasses of juice.  After she and Aman rejoined the crowd, Priya quickly raised a glass of water Aman handed her, while he himself took a glass of vodka from the bar.  Hiten raised another toast and wished then announced that the party will go on all night long.  

“You’re going to have a huge hangover tomorrow.” Aman commented as Hiten downed a shot of tequila.  

“Whatever. Tonight is my night! Party on!” Hiten slurred carelessly.  

“Didi! Where’d you go? You missed the fireworks.” Payal came running up to Priya.  

“I saw them.  They were wonderful!” Priya answered.  She eyed Aman as he talked with Hiten.  “By the way, don’t think I didn’t see what happened between you and Rajiv.” Priya said mischieviously

The color from Payal’s face drained instantly.  A blush crept onto her cheeks.  

“Didi, I…” she tried to say, “It’s how they celebrate the New Year here.”

“Save it, Payal.” Priya said seriously.  

“But Didi, it won’t happen again. I promise. Rajiv is sweet.  I told him he could.” Payal was nearly in tears.  

“Payal! I was just kidding.”  Priya said quickly, hiding a smile.  

Payal looked at her suspiciously.  

“Really, Payal. I like Rajiv.  Just don’t let things go too far.  You aren’t married yet.” Priya warned.  

“I almost had a heart attack!” Payal exclaimed.  “Do you really like him?”