CANVAS OF COURAGE [Ongoing]

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Sanvi listened intently, her heart still racing from the encounter.

"But" Kaira continued, her voice tinged with caution, "I've also learned that real connections take time to build. Sometimes, what feels like an instant connection might just be our emotions playing tricks on us. It's important to stay grounded and let things develop naturally."

Sanvi nodded, her thoughts swirling with a mix of excitement and rationality.

Kaira gave her a reassuring smile, her tone warm and understanding. "And that's perfectly okay.  If it's meant to be, things will fall into place."

 Despite her attempts to rationalize, the thought of Siddarth lingered in her mind. This was likely just a fleeting moment, a single crossing of paths. Yet, she couldn't help but wonder—would their paths ever cross again?

8 PM, AT THE VELVET BISTRO

SIDDARTH POV

After ensuring that Eshan would drop Arya home safely, I decided to come here. Pushing open the heavy, ornate door of Velvet Bistro, the familiar scent of polished wood and fine leather and the soft jazz music created a calm environment, a stark contrast to the storm brewing in my mind.

What could he possibly want to tell me now? Didn't I already tell him I can't do that deal? Why is he bothering me? He knows the consequences if I go against him. The lives of my loved ones are on the line.

Making my way to my usual corner table, the plush leather chair offered a sense of familiarity and comfort. I signaled to the bartender for my usual drink, a classic Old Fashioned. Taking a sip of my drink as it arrived, I tried to focus on the task at hand. However, thoughts of Sanvi kept intruding. Her words, her smile—all of it had captivated me. But I reminded myself that such distractions were a waste of time I couldn't afford. My life was too busy for such indulgences.

Leaning back in my chair, I stared into the amber liquid in my glass. I knew I needed to stay grounded, to keep my focus on my work and the goals I had set for myself. Emotions could disrupt even the most carefully laid plans. I sighed, wondering if fate would ever allow our paths to cross again.

Just then, a shadowy figure entered the lounge, scanning the room with purpose. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized the familiar silhouette. This was the person I had come to meet, the one who held the answers to the pressing questions that had been gnawing at me. The air seemed to thicken with tension as the figure moved past my table and sat just behind me, ensuring that our meeting would remain discreet.

"Good evening, Siddarth," the figure greeted me in a low voice, filled with an air of mystery.

"The CCTV here won't be working for a few hours, but we still can't take risks," he added.

I nodded slightly, keeping my gaze forward. "Get to the point. Why did you call me here? You already know I am not interested in that proposal," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the mounting suspense.

"You're declining the offer again? Why?" he asked, attempting to keep his voice calm.

I took a deep breath, choosing my words carefully. "I trust no one, not even myself. I can't take risks with my loved ones. One mistake could ruin everything."

"Are you worried about Arya? I already told you before, didn't I? I provide her the best security."

"I still want to decline the offer," I stated firmly.