In a vibrant city in southern India, amidst temples, traditions, and modern chaos, two souls on different paths are unknowingly destined to cross. She is an aspiring doctor-grounded in family values, guided by her devotion to Lord Venkateswara, and with a penchant for dark romance novels. Known for her quiet demeanor in public, she hides a mischievous, playful side around her closest friends. He, the eldest of two brothers, is a rising star in software development, cool-headed, practical, and utterly devoted to his family. Cooking is his outlet, where he finds calm amid the chaos, and though he's not particularly religious, he respects his mother's wishes to pray now and then. He considers himself quietly mischievous, but all that changes when he meets her.
Their paths cross through family ties and social circles, setting off a sequence of teasing exchanges, shared secrets, and moments of unexpected closeness. Her lively, teasing nature sparks his curiosity, while his quiet charm and unwavering confidence catch her off guard. As they navigate their quirks, families, and the rhythm of their love, their story unfolds through silly fights, romantic teases, and a blend of traditional and modern values that bind them.
As Claire aims to leave her oppressive stepfamily behind, she befriends Zion. Will he be her ticket to freedom or a distraction in achieving her dreams?
*****
Claire Olsen has had a crush on Zion Petrakis since the first time she laid eyes on him, but he never noticed, instead only having eyes on the school's it girl, Maddie Jennings. Knowing she couldn't compete with Maddie, Claire hid her feelings for Zion, satisfied with admiring him from afar. However, when a series of events led Claire closer to Zion, her feelings for him grew from infatuation to love. And despite fighting hard to keep her feelings contained by distancing herself from Zion, he was determined to show her that he's earned a spot in her life.
[[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]]