The next morning, Sachi walked down a quiet residential lane, sunlight brushing against her peach midi dress. Her hair was neatly tied, a few loose strands framing her face, and her sling bag hung lightly at her side.
She checked the address again on her phone. "206 Bungalow,"it read.
Outside the gate, the number 206 was painted neatly in black at the corner.
"This should be it," she murmured to herself. The gate was tall and dark, the kind that revealed nothing inside. There was no watchman in sight.
Sachi knocked twice. No answer.She waited, then knocked again. Still nothing.
Finally, spotting a small gap near the corner of the gate, curiosity got the better of her. She bent slightly and peeked through the hole.
"Found anything interesting?" a voice came from behind her, smooth and teasing.
"Not really," she replied quickly and then Sachi froze. She turned—and nearly jumped back when she found herself face-to-face with a young man, barely inches away. He was tall, in a black hoodie and shorts, still catching his breath from jogging, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.
"If you're looking for someone to scam," he said casually, unlocking the gate through a keypad hidden on the side, "you might want to try another house."
Sachi blinked, half-offended. "Excuse me? Do I look like a scammer to you?"
Yuvan tilted his head, smirk still in place. "A little too early to tell."
He pushed the gate open and walked inside.
"Wait!" Sachi called, holding the gate before it closed. "I'm here to meet Yuvan."
"Good luck with that," he said, not turning around.
"I'm Sachi," she added quickly, "from Kindle Creative — Magnus Group."
That made him stop. The name rang a bell — his grandfather's voice from yesterday's call echoing in his mind.
He finally turned, eyeing her again, "Oh. So you're the one they sent."
Without another word, he gestured her inside.
As Sachi stepped through the gate, her eyes widened slightly. The entire bungalow—walls, pillars, even the garden furniture—was drenched in shades of black.
Inside, the house was dimly lit, the kind of soft lighting that made everything feel quiet and slightly unfamiliar. An open kitchen stretched to the left, all black counters and steel fixtures. The place was big—huge, actually—but somehow it still felt… empty. Too much space, too little life.
Did I just walk into a mafia's house? she thought, clutching her bag a little tighter.
Glass steps led up to the first floor like something out of a designer catalogue. On the ground floor she spotted one bedroom, the kitchen, a living room, and what looked like two more doors that could be anything—rooms, closets, secret chambers… with this colour scheme, who knew?
The living room had a high ceiling with a modern chandelier hanging dramatically above. A dining table stood near the kitchen, clearly meant for four, but only one chair was there. A middle-aged woman stepped out from the kitchen wiping her hands on her apron that was May. "Madam, please sit," she said warmly, pointing to the black couch.
Sachi nodded and sat, still taking in the eerie elegance of the place.
The woman—probably the house help—brought her a glass filled with perfectly chilled water."Coffee? Tea?" she asked politely.
"No, thank you. This is fine," Sachi said with a small smile, though she absolutely wanted neither coffee nor tea in this mafia-themed mansion.
Just then the front door opened again.
A man in crisp formal clothes walked in, office bag slung crossbody over his shoulder. He looked organized, well-slept, and dangerously efficient—like someone who reminded people of deadlines for sport.
He greeted her with a polite smile."You must be Ms. Sachi. I'm Varun—Sethi sir's assistant. I'll also be assisting Yuvan from now on."
Sachi blinked.
Assistant?This boy has an assistant?What is he, a limited-edition CEO?
She maintained her professional smile externally, but internally she was dramatically rolling on the floor.
Yuvan stood in his room, He sneaked out of his bedroom, peeking down the hall before stepping into the living room, Interesting, he murmured to himself with a sly grin. Let's see, Sachi… how long you can tolerate me.
This time, he wasn't gloomy or cold. His whole aura had shifted—he looked mischievous, almost playful. The hoodie-and-shorts jogger had transformed into a black jacket.
Sachi stared at him.
Is he… going to college? Seriously?
The moment May spotted Yuvan, she returned to the kitchen to fetch the breakfast she had already prepared—benne dosa, still steaming.
Yuvan casually sat on the couch, right next to Sachi, brushing a little too close for comfort. Varun stepped forward like a dutiful assistant.
"Yuvan, this is—"
But Yuvan completely ignored him.Instead, he tilted his head and looked straight at Sachi, smirking internally.
Sachi simply stared back, disturbed by how dramatically his behaviour had changed.
Varun tried again. "Sir, I'm Varun, I'll be assist—"
But before he could finish, Yuvan leaned forward, pretending to stretch, purposely letting his voice drop lazily."So, Miss Sachi… do you always stalk people from tiny peepholes? Or am I the lucky first one?"
Sachi's soul left her body for two seconds. Sachi mentally gagged.
May returned with benne dosa, placing the plate in front of Yuvan. At least someone in this house was normal.
By now Varun looked like a man who had tried five times to introduce himself and had given up on life. Sachi, ignoring Yuvan entirely, unlocked her phone and checked her schedule.
An offline meeting at 11:30.Time now: 10:45. Distance from here to office: around 35 minutes.
She shot up instantly.
Half of Yuvan's dosa was still lying on the plate when she grabbed his wrist.
"Let's go."
"I'm not done," he protested, still chewing.
She rolled her eyes, grabbed the remaining dosa, folded it neatly—and stuffed it into his mouth.
"Now you are."
Varun nearly choked laughing but quickly rushed outside to find a cab.
Sachi was still holding Yuvan's wrist, dragging him toward the gate. She checked her watch again. Then checked the empty road. She didn't even notice she was still holding him.
Ten minutes passed.
Finally, Yuvan spoke, voice low and amused, "Umm… how long are you planning to hold my hand? Should I cancel all my plans for the day?"
Sachi blinked, looked down, and yanked her hand away like she touched electricity.
She turned to Varun. "Cab?" "In ten minutes."
"Ten more minutes?"Her heart sank.
I never get late for meetings… never.
Before she could panic further, Yuvan casually walked toward the side of the bungalow, where a small garage stood. A moment later, he rolled out his glossy, brand-new bike—matte black, polished. He stopped in front of her.
"Get on."
Sachi hesitated. "No, I—"
"Suit yourself," he shrugged, revving the engine. "But you'll miss your meeting."
Sachi muttered a quick prayer to every deity she could remember, then got on the bike.
She sat stiff as a pillar, keeping her hands far away from him.Yuvan smirked.
The moment he accelerated, the bike shot forward—and Sachi instinctively grabbed him by the shoulders.
"Thought so," he murmured with a grin as they sped down the road.
Varun stood outside the gate, watching helplessly. He clutched his bag, blinking at the vanishing bike marks on the road.
He sighed dramatically and adjusted his office bag.
Shaking his head, he slowly began walking toward the main road to find his own cab.
Meanwhile, Yuvan's bike sliced through the traffic like he was in a video game, not real life.
He cut between cars, overtook from impossible gaps, and rode with the confidence of someone who believed signals were optional suggestions.
"Slow down!" Sachi yelled, gripping his shoulders tighter.
"I am going slow," he replied casually.
A bus honked angrily. Yuvan honked back, as if greeting a friend.
Sachi's soul screamed inside her body.
Finally—finally—they reached Magnus Group's building.
Sachi got off the bike, fixing her dress and her dignity.Yuvan removed his helmet, shaking his hair like a boy in a shampoo commercial.
"Come to the 5th floor," she said breathlessly. "Branding department. Don't be late."
Yuvan nodded with fake obedience."Hmm."
But the moment she turned to rush inside, he smirked. As if I'm going to listen to you.
He swung his leg over the bike and rode off in the opposite direction.
Sachi sprinted into the building, hurried into the lift, and reached the conference room just three minutes before the meeting began.
The TRP Foods team was already there, files arranged neatly, waiting and Neha joined too.
For 40 minutes, Sachi handled the discussion with poise—concepts, packaging ideas, emotional messaging, color palettes, everything. Her confidence flowed naturally.
Finally, she closed the last folder and smiled.
"We'll take care of your traditional values without losing the modern appeal," Sachi assured them.
The TRP team stood up, impressed."Perfect. We look forward to your proposal."
Sachi exhaled once they left. After stepping out of the meeting room, Sachi walked beside Neha.
"From today the shoots will start," Sachi said, scrolling through her schedule. "Make sure you visit the set and coordinate with the team, okay?"
Neha nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Sachi!"
They reached the branding bay. Sachi glanced toward her desk, here and there but no sign of Yuvan. Her brows knit. Where is this boy? she thought, scanning the floor once more. But Yuvan was nowhere to be seen.
Megha was reviewing a design when she noticed Sachi pacing from one end of the cabin to the other, phone in hand, brows tightly knit.
"Sachi…? What happened?" Megha asked, concerned.
Sachi froze. How was she supposed to say the new intern had vanished like smoke?
She forced a dry smile. "Nothing… just—network issues."
Megha looked unconvinced, but she nodded and returned to her screen.
Sachi stepped out immediately and dialed Varun to get Yuvan contact details.
Sachi dial, no response. She dialed again. And again.
Finally—"WHAT?" Yuvan picked up, sounding as if she had interrupted his royal nap.
"Where are you?" she snapped.
"Miss… Trainer… your tone."Sachi closed her eyes, breathing in patience.
Yuvan added, "Come to Munchies cafe. I'm bored."
Bored?" Sachi's jaw tightened. She told him firmly, "Just come to the office."
But Yuvan only replied, "If you come, then I'll think about it."
Sachi closed her eyes for a second, holding back her frustration. She had no choice—this challenge was tied to her promotion. "Fine. I'm coming," she said through her teeth.
She headed toward the exit.
At the café
Sachi entered with just her phone, her sling bag left behind on her desk in her hurry. She scanned the crowd.
Where is this irritating—
Yuvan waved dramatically from a corner table.
She marched toward him.
Before she said anything, Varun—sitting beside him with a cup of cappuccino—looked up and said earnestly,"Ma'am, I would've come to the office… but I can't afford to miss my morning coffee."
Sachi's soul left her body for half a second.
She inhaled sharply. Control. Promotion. Six months. You can do this.
She slid into the seat, muttering under her breath, "I swear I don't know who the intern is—him or me."
Yuvan leaned forward immediately, palm under his chin, smirk widening."Hmm? Did you say something? Say it loudly—I love clarity."
Sachi stared at him and she steadied her breath and started explaining the work—her tone calm, professional. Yuvan, meanwhile, looked like he'd left his interest somewhere. He raised a hand to the waiter."Two warm choco-chip cookies," he ordered casually.
A minute later, the cookies arrived, soft and fresh. Sachi's eyes flicked toward them before she could stop herself. Yuvan noticed immediately.
"Want?" he asked, nudging the plate toward her.
Sachi didn't even pretend—she took one and started eating without a second thought.Yuvan smiled, amused. Sachi wiped a crumb from her lip.
After finishing up, they got ready to leave for work. Outside, Yuvan pointed to his bike.
"I'll drop you. Sit."
"No need. I can go by myself," Sachi said, brushing past.
Yuvan grabbed her wrist—not harshly, but firm enough to stop her."Sachi, sit. Don't make me run again."
Seriously? she thought, rolling her eyes internally. But instead of arguing, she climbed onto the bike."Fine," she murmured.
As they rode off, on the other side of the road, Miha's car slowed. She spotted them—Yuvan on the bike, a girl sitting behind him—and fury shot up her spine."Who… is she?" she muttered, anger rising.And why is she sitting with Yuvan?
"Stop the car!" she snapped at her driver.
But by the time she stepped out, they were already gone.
Miha clenched her phone."How dare she sit on Yuvan's bike," she hissed to herself, already dialing Yuvan's number with shaking fingers.
After getting no response from Yuvan, Miha's irritation grew claws. She dialed Gauresh instead.
He picked up on the third ring, sounding distracted."Yeah, Miha?"
"Where is Yuvan?" she snapped. "He isn't answering my calls."
Gauresh sighed, shifting the guitar resting on his lap."He won't come to college today. He's started joining his company… mostly in the training period, I guess."
Miha let out a short, sarcastic laugh."Yuvan? And training? Seriously?""Whatever," she continued, dismissive. "You better ask Yuvan to meet me in the evening." And without waiting for a reply, she hung up.
Gauresh stared at his phone for a second, confused. Then he placed it on the table beside him, running a hand down his face.
"Great," he muttered to himself, "Now how am I supposed to ask Yuvan to meet Miha?"
He sighed heavily, leaning back in the club room sofa as the guitar slid onto his lap.
Yuvan reached the Magnus Building parking lot, parked his bike, and both got off, walking toward the lift. Sachi brushed her hair back, straightening her Midi dress.
"From tomorrow, wear formal clothes," she instructed.
Yuvan looked at his black jacket and jeans."What's wrong with this? I'm not your boyfriend to listen to you."
Sachi stopped walking.Yuvan, confused, stopped too and turned to face her.
Without warning, Sachi took both her hands and cupped his cheeks, pulling his face closer to hers.
"So if I become your girlfriend, will you listen to me?"
Yuvan froze.For a moment, his brain shut down; his face turned hot, ears red. He quickly pushed her hands down and walked ahead stiffly.
What the hell just happened?His heart was beating as if he'd run a marathon.
Behind him, Sachi frowned."Yuvan! Answer me!"
He didn't. He just jabbed the lift button, pretending it didn'taffect him.
Inside the lift, Sachi crossed her arms."Tomorrow—don't forget to wear formals."
"Yes, I got it," he snapped.
She blinked. Wait… shouldn't I be the irritated one? Why is he irritated?
The lift door opened. Varun was waiting. "Hey Yuvan—" Varun tried.Ignored.Yuvan walked straight past him. Varun sighed, "This boy is allergic to greetings."
Sachi whispered, "Come inside, Varun. Meeting room."
They entered the meeting room.Varun handed over a file.
"All formalities done. This is his basic info for your reference." And Varun left, completely giving up on properly introducing Yuvan.
Yuvan was already in a chair, playing games on his phone, legs stretched out.
Sachi sat opposite him."Please take notes. I'll explain a few points. For now, you'll start with scanning, printing, sample artwork sorting, and brand file organizing."
No response. He was still gaming.
Sachi closed her eyes.Breathe… breathe… She stood up. Yuvan—alert now—watched her silently. She grabbed the notepad, scribbled a clean list, and placed it in front of him.
"I've made these notes. Start doing them from today."
He stared at the neat handwriting, then at her. She didn't wait; she walked out, motioning him to follow.
When they reached the team area, she cleared her throat.
"Everyone, listen. Megha, Rekha, Neha, Ricky—this is Yuvan, intern under me."
Ricky leaned back with a grin."Sachi, did you just grab him from a club or what?"
Everyone laughed.
Yuvan, without lifting his head, replied,"If she grabbed me from the club, trust me, I wouldn't be here. I'd be back there enjoying."
The whole team went silent for two seconds—
Then Sachi forced a smile, stepping in quickly,"He's joking! He has… a special sense of humour."
She pointed at the empty desk next to hers."Sit here."
Then she dialed IT on her extension."Is Yuvan's laptop ready? …Okay. Send it in 10 minutes."She hung up and sat to start her work.
Within minutes, Megha rolled her chair next to Sachi's desk. "What's going on, Sachi?" she whispered. "I'll talk later. Busy right now," Sachi murmured, typing rapidly.
Megha raised both hands dramatically."Yes, ma'am." She began packing her things—she had a half-day. "Cupid proposal corrections are done. Check once and schedule the client meeting," Megha instructed.
Sachi nodded.
Megha came closer again."Sachi, at least ask why I'm leaving early." Still typing, Sachireplied, "You must have some reason". Megha's jaw dropped."Unbelievable. Anyway—my siblings' parents meeting is there. See you tomorrow."
She left, mumbling under her breath.
A knock on the glass partition broke the silence.
"Laptop for Yuvan," the IT guy announced, placing a new company laptop on the desk beside Sachi.
Yuvan didn't even look up.He just lifted one eyebrow slightly—like a king acknowledging a servant—and continued playing his game.
Sachi pressed her lips together.Calm. Peace. Buddha mode.
After another hour, Sachi finally closed her last file and stretched her arms above her head.
"Aah—done."
Then she remembered.Oh right… he exists. She slowly turned her head.
Yuvan sat beside her, legs stretched, leaning back, phone in hands, thumbs moving effortlessly.
Still playing games. She stared at him for three full seconds.
She couldn't even blame him—she hadn't explained anything properly yet. So she pulled her chair closer to him.
"Move," she muttered.
Yuvan blinked at her. "Excuse me?"
"Just move a little," she nudged, already opening his laptop.
He shifted an inch. Exactly one inch. Sachi sighed and started showing him the basics.
"This is how you open the company email, this is login… here is how you reply. Professional language only. No emojis."
Yuvan stopped her mid-sentence.
"Do you think I'm in 1st grade?" he asked, offended.
"No," Sachi replied dryly. "First graders actually listen."
He narrowed his eyes. She ignored his look, opened the folders, and pulled up two files.
"This is the Kindle Creative template. And this is a past proposal. Go through them so you'll understand our style. The basics are already highlighted—"
While she talked, Yuvan rested his elbow on the table, palm under his chin, staring at her like she was narrating a bedtime story.
His eyes didn't move from her face.Not even once.
After a minute of her talking, he smiled—a slow, amused, dangerous smile.
"So basically," he said, lazily,"you're telling me bedtime stories and giving me homework?"
Sachi stared at him."Yes," she said flatly. "Except you're the only intern who needs both."
Yuvan chuckled, that playful smirk returning.
She pointed at the laptop."Read."
He continued leaning on his palm, eyes fixed on her instead of the laptop. "You read for me."
Sachi didn't even look up. "No. You read."
Yuvan let out a dramatic sigh, sitting up straighter like he'd been personally wronged."Okay, okay… I'll read it, Serious-Face."
Sachi shot him a warning glare.
He grinned wider, mischief dancing in his eyes—clearing his throat like a stage actor.
"'Spiced Out aims to bring authentic household flavors—'"He paused and glanced at her."Wow. I might fall asleep from excitement."
Sachi didn't blink. "Keep reading."
He continued—this time in a dramatic, deep voice as though narrating a documentary.
"'Our approach will focus on emotional resonance, brand storytelling, and consumer trust—'…blah, blah, emotional, brand, trust. Are you sure this isn't a lullaby?"
Sachi closed the laptop halfway, just enough to make him straighten immediately.
"Fine! Fine," he huffed. "I'll read like a normal human."
She reopened it.
He leaned closer, eyes scanning the text properly now, but every few seconds he'd look sideways at her—as if checking how long she'd tolerate him.
After a moment he whispered,"So… Serious-Face, am I doing it right?"
"Perfect," she replied flatly.
"Hmm," he smirked, "didn't sound like a compliment."
"Because it wasn't."
Yuvan chuckled—soft, amused, and entirely unbothered.
Urvi pushed open the door and stepped inside. Their mother was sitting on the sofa, folding freshly dried clothes while the TV played in the background.
Urvi dropped her bag on the couch with a sigh. "Yeah… I went to meet Didi again."
That made her mom pause. "How was she?"
Urvi sat beside her, hugging a cushion. "Same old Sachi. Acting like everything is fine. Smiling like she doesn't get tired." She looked down, picking at a thread on the pillow. "Honestly, sometimes I feel she hides too much."
Her mom's hands slowed. A soft silence settled before she spoke."She has always been like that.
Urvi sighed deeply. "I told her to come home. But she won't listen."
Her mom gave a sad smile. "She's stubborn, I guess she didn't forgive me."
Urvi looked up, suddenly frustrated. "But, Ma… she's alone there. Her mom folded the last piece of cloth and looked at Urvi properly.
Her mom gently cupped her cheek."But don't worry. One day she'll come home. When her heart feels ready."
Urvi nodded, leaning into her mother's hand.
Her mother stood up after a moment, cupping Urvi's cheek before heading toward the kitchen. The soft clinking of utensils filled the silence, but her hands slowed as an old memory tugged at her.
Thirteen-year-old Sachi. Standing in the hallway, trembling. Her small fists clutching the edge of her mother's kurta, eyes swollen from crying.
"Mom… please… don't get divorced," she had sobbed, voice breaking with a desperation no child should ever feel. "Please don't separate. We'll be good. We'll be okay. Just… don't go."
Her mother remembered how she had looked away then, unable to bear the weight of that heartbreak. Sachi stayed with her father, wiping her tears with the back of her sleeve, trying to be brave. Urvi had stayed with her me. The family had split like a clean tear through paper.
Back in the present, the memory blurred as tears filled her mother's eyes. She gripped the counter, her voice barely a whisper.
"If I hadn't gone through with the divorce… maybe we all would have still been together.""I'm sorry, Sachi. I wasn't there when you needed me the most."
She wiped her face quickly before Urvi could see, forcing herself to breathe normally. But the ache in her chest stayed—quiet, old, and still unbearably heavy.
Inside MM's cabin, the atmosphere was heavy with authority. Sushant and his father Sanjay, stood before MM, who leaned back in his chair with a thoughtful expression.
"I've decided," MM said firmly. "Yuvan will join here as an intern under Sachi."
Sanjay instantly rubbed his forehead, exasperated."Dad, why waste time on Yuvan? He's not capable of handling business. All he's good at is spending money. Let him continue doing that."
MM's eyes sharpened. "Sanjay, don't forget—Yuvan is also a part of the Magnus Group. And I know one day he'll handle it well."
He turned to Sushant. "You tell me, Sushant."
Sushant straightened, meeting MM's gaze respectfully. "Grandpa, if you've already made up your mind about Yuvan, then I'll trust your decision. But…" his voice lowered just a little, "he's in my department. I won't be easy on him."
MM's sternness melted into approval. "Good. That's what I expect. Learn something from your son, Sanjay," he added pointedly.
Sanjay's jaw tightened, but he said nothing.
The meeting ended, and Sushant and Sanjay stepped into the lift. As the lift doors closed, Sanjay's frustration spilled out.
"Are you crazy, Sushant? I trained you. I made you capable to sit in that position. No one can take your place. Make sure of it."
The lift reached the ground floor with a soft ding. As the doors slid open, Sushant stepped out—but Sanjay's voice followed sharply.
"Don't forget that."
Sushant froze for a second, his shoulders stiff. Slowly, he turned back, holding the lift door with one hand.
"Dad," he said quietly but firmly, "Yuvan's parents died in an accident?"
And without waiting for a reply, he let the lift door close and walked away, leaving Sanjay staring after him.
Sachi cleared her throat. "Yuvan, from tomorrow, please wear formals and come at 10 a.m., okay? Tomorrow we have an internal team meeting, and you have to—"
Before she could finish, he hopped off the chair, waved dramatically, and started walking away.
"Byeeee, Serious face," he sang, not even turning.
She stared at his disappearing back, exhaling in defeat. "It's useless telling him anything," she muttered, pressing her fingers to her forehead.
So she grabbed her phone, typed out all the important points like a responsible adult dealing with an irresponsible child, and hit send.
Then she returned to her desk, she started getting into the flow, her phone buzzed with her mom's name blinking on the screen. Her hand paused mid-air. She looked at it for a moment… then gently placed the phone aside and continued typing, drowning herself in work instead.
Yuvan rode his bike slowly past the row of cafés, his eyes casually scanning the storefronts. The glow of warm lights reflected on the glass, displaying trays of pastries and cupcakes. He was about to accelerate when something tugged at his memory.
The day he first saw Sachi.
The way her face lit up, eyes widening like a child offered her favourite toy—that moment had stuck with him without his permission.
He smirked under his breath.
"Unbelievable," he muttered. "She is like a robot but smiles like that only for cake."
The thought made him unexpectedly amused. He stared at them for a second… and without thinking, he took a sharp reverse turn. Let's play a little with Serious-Face."
Sachi stood outside the Magnus Group building, checking her phone.The time flashed 7:30 p.m., and her cab app showed 15 minutes.
She sighed, shifting the strap of her bag on her shoulder as the evening breeze swept across the parking lot. Most employees had already left; only a few scattered footsteps echoed around her.
Just then, Sushant walked out, phone in one hand, laptop bag in the other. He was talking softly into the call, brows slightly drawn. When he ended the call, he noticed her.
"Good evening," Sachi greeted.
He nodded politely, then seemed to remember her. "Sachi? Waiting for your cab?"
"Yes, sir."
"Where do you stay? I'll drop you," he offered casually.
Sachi reacted too quickly, almost too loudly. "No, sir! My cab will be here in five minutes."
Sushant raised a brow. "Are you sure?"
"Yes, sir—see?" She held out her phone.
At that exact moment, a notification popped up: Cab cancelled.
Sushant exhaled a small laugh. "Seems like you'll have to wait a few more minutes."
Sachi's eyes widened as she checked again. "What…? It got cancelled…"
Just then, Sushant's car pulled up in front. He nodded toward it. "Last chance. I can drop you."
Sachi opened her mouth to accept—because saying no again would look too stiff—when suddenly a hand grabbed her wrist.
Yuvan.
He stepped in front of her, pulling her a bit to the side.
"How long are you going to make me wait?" he demanded, as if she owed him an explanation.
Sachi froze, completely taken aback. "Wait—for what?"
Sushant glanced at them briefly but didn't interfere. He simply got into his car, and it drove off.
The moment he left, Sachi yanked her hand free."What are you doing? Why did you pull me like that?"
Yuvan looked genuinely puzzled. "I was confused about what to buy, so I thought meeting you would make it easier."
"What shopping? I never agreed to—"
"And," he interrupted, raising a finger, "I'll treat you to those fancy cakes. The good ones. And tomorrow… I'll follow your instructions, okay?"
Sachi narrowed her eyes. "Bribing me now?"
"No," Yuvan grinned, "just… requesting nicely.
His tone turned unexpectedly earnest for a second.
Sachi exhaled. Him actually requesting like a semi-decent human for once.
"Fine," she muttered. "Just shopping. And quick."
Yuvan's face lit up instantly. "Deal."
He grabbed his helmet, handed her the other one, and the two walked toward his bike, Sachi still slightly irritated. Yuvan entirely pleased with himself.
Later they entered the Magnus Mall's premium floor, where most stores looked like art galleries rather than shops. Sachiwalked beside Yuvan, still annoyed, still confused, still forced to follow him. When they reached an expensive formal-wear store, Sachi blinked.
Not a single customer inside.Only staff standing neatly in a line—as if waiting.
The moment Yuvan stepped in, the manager hurried forward with a respectful bow.
"Sir, your formal shirts are ready. You can try them."
Sir?Sachi's eyebrows almost touched her hairline.
Before she could question anything, Yuvan casually led her toward the trial rooms. She sat outside, clutching her phone.
The trial room door clicked open. And the "fashion show" began.
First white shirt—sleeves folded, collar sharp, buttons neat.Yuvan walked out with that effortless confidence that didn'tmatch his age.
Sachi's thoughts betrayed her: He looks… manly. How is he only twenty-one?
She forced her expression neutral.
Next, a navy blue shirt.Then graphite grey.Then another white.And a steel blue that almost made her react out loud.
Finally, he appeared in a black shirt—sleek, fitted, dangerous.
Sachi's brain: Wow. Sachi's face: Blank like office printer paper.
After the tenth walk-out, Yuvan leaned against the wall, arms crossed.
"Which one should I buy?" She cleared her throat."White and blue. They look professional."
He nodded.
And then bought… three black shirts.
Sachi's eye twitched. Why did she even open her mouth?
Yuvan didn't stop there—he walked right out of the store without paying."Wait! Your bill—" She turned, confused.Thestaff bowed and said, "Ma'am, the billing is handled."
Handled?Just how rich was this boy?
Before her thoughts could settle, Yuvan's gaze landed on the gaming zone. Specifically—Bowling. He was walking there. When she tried to protest—"Shopping done, I'm lea—"
He grabbed her wrist and tugged her beside him. "Two-player slot," he told the staff.
"Y-Yuvan, I don't want—" "I booked. If you don't value money, then go home. I'll play alone."
Sachi froze.
Fine.Challenge first.Murdering him would come later.
They began playing.Yuvan, naturally, was a pro—throwing perfect, clean strikes with annoying ease.
And Sachi? The ball rolled so slowly the machine almost fell asleep.
Yuvan smirked."This is bowling, not meditation."
Her glare could melt steel. She tried again. The ball went to the gutter immediately.
Yuvan clapped dramatically."Wow. Impressive consistency."
She inhaled to keep from snapping. When she picked up the ball again, Yuvan suddenly stepped behind her, holding her wrist. "What are you doing?" she hissed. "Relax. Try throwing it properly." And he moved her arm with his, guiding the throw.
STRIKE. Sachi's eyes widened like she discovered a new galaxy. She actually jumped a little.
Her happiness was so pure Yuvan found himself smiling unintentionally. Sachi then watched him throw—observing every movement to copy it.
And when she tried again—Almost all pins fell, leaving one wobbling stubbornly. "That's it!" she exclaimed, almost bouncing.
Yuvan folded his arms, half-annoyed, half-amused. First she was behaving like an old hag… now like a child. He shook his head. This girl is dangerously unpredictable.
After almost an hour of bowling, Yuvan stretched his arms as if he'd won a world championship.
"Not bad, serious face. You managed to hit more than the gutter."
Sachi rolled her eyes and walked toward the exit, exhausted. Yuvan followed, hands loosely in his pockets, looking annoyingly pleased.
"Since you played so well," he drawled, "let's go get cake."
"No." Her answer came quicker than his offer.
He blinked. "No?"
"Yuvan, you can't bribe me with cake," she said firmly. "I want you to focus on work. Not for me—" She paused, searching for the right words. "—for your family. For yourself."
For a moment, he actually stopped walking.
Not because he was hurt.But because the words felt… unfamiliar.
People usually expected nothing from him. This woman expected effort. He studied her face, then smirked lightly. "So serious. You talk as if you're my wife."
She glared. "If I was, you'd be unemployed." "Oh?" He leaned closer. "So you think about that possibility?"
"I am leaving," she said flatly, walking ahead. Yuvan chuckled and followed her to the mall's exit. The night air was cool, the lights bright, and the parking lot quiet.
"I'll drop you," he said, twirling his bike keys.
"No. My cab is coming." "You sure?" He tilted his head. "You're not scared I'll kidnap you for another bowling round?"
"Yuvan," she sighed, "just go home."
He raised both hands in surrender."Fine, Miss serious face. Go home. Be boring."
She didn't react, didn't rise to his teasing. She simply adjusted her bag strap and walked toward the pickup lane.
He watched her for a moment, an odd expression flickering through his eyes—something unreadable, something he himself didn't understand.
Then he turned, stepping onto his bike.
"Tomorrow, ten a.m.," she reminded him before he could start the engine.
He saluted mockingly. "Yes, boss."
Sachi finally spotted her cab approaching, exhaling heavily. Both headed toward their respective homes—
That night, Sachi reached home.For the first time in months, she didn't switch on her laptop, didn't check mails, didn't even glance at pending tasks. She simply changed, fell onto her bed, and drifted into sleep—Herbody wasn't tired, but her mind refused to push even one step further. No overthinking.No preparing for tomorrow.Just sleep.
The next morning, she woke surprisingly fresh.
She dressed neatly in white flare pants and a crisp orange shirt, tying her hair with quick efficiency. As she stepped out of her building adjusting her handbag, she froze.
A bike.A familiar figure in a black formal shirt and grey pants.Leaning casually.Then waving at her.
For a second, she genuinely thought she was hallucinating.
"…No way," she whispered.
But the figure didn't disappear.
It was real. It was Yuvan. He waved again, this time more dramatically—like she was the one keeping him waiting.
Sachi marched toward him. "How did you even find my home address?"
Yuvan tapped his temple proudly."That's my hidden talent."
"That's not an answer—"
"Come on," he cut in, patting the backseat. "Hop on. Let's leave."
She gave him the deadliest glare known to mankind.
He only grinned.
Realizing she'd be late if she argued, Sachi climbed onto the bike.
The moment she settled, Yuvan turned slightly and said,"Yesterday you came to pick me… so today I came. Now we're even."
Then he accelerated.
The sudden burst of speed made Sachi jolt—and her hands instinctively flew to his shoulders, gripping tightly.
"Yuvan!" she yelled over the wind.
"What?" he called back."I drive like this only!"
Her grip tightened even more. Inside, Yuvan smiled to himself.And the two rode toward Magnus Group—one annoyed, one amused.
When they reached the office, Sachi stepped off the bike quickly, trying to slip back into her calm, professional mode. Yuvan parked and walked beside her with casual ease. Inside, the combined team meeting was already being set up.
Sachi entered the conference room and took her usual seat near the screen. Before she could open her laptop, Yuvan dragged a chair and sat right next to her.
SM began the presentation, introducing the major clients for the quarter: TRP Foods, Triumph Sounds, and an unexpected heavyweight—Crestline. The room instantly grew more attentive. It was a major opportunity, and SM trusted this team.
Sachi typed quickly, capturing every point. Surprisingly, Yuvan was listening with uncharacteristic focus, twirling a pen thoughtfully. Occasionally, he glanced sideways at her, but said nothing.
Ricky entered halfway with additional reports, settling opposite Sachi. The moment he noticed her, his face brightened. "Morning, Sachi. You look sharp today."
She gave him a polite nod. "Thanks."
Yuvan's jaw tightened, "Sharp? Seriously? he muttered.
As the meeting progressed, Sachi leaned slightly toward Yuvan, lowering her voice so only he could hear.
"Yuvan, try to understand the client plans," she murmured. "These three are big accounts. You need to know what they want, how they work. Take proper notes."
The discussion moved forward. Triumph Sounds needed a brand restructuring. Crestline required a complete identity overhaul. Sachi contributed ideas confidently, while Ricky supported several of her points. The team listened closely. Yuvan remained mostly quiet, writing notes and observing.
But when Ricky leaned forward and said, "Sachi, if you're free later, we can refine the Crestline deck together," Yuvan abruptly cut in.
"She's busy later. I need her help with the TRP outline."
Sachi turned toward him sharply. "You do not."
"I do now," he replied, arms crossed.
Ricky blinked. "Oh. Okay then."
Sachi lowered her voice. "What is wrong with you?"
"Nothing. Priorities," he said under his breath.
The meeting continued, with Sachi trying to remain professional and Yuvan pretending he wasn't bothered by anyone else getting her attention.
After the meeting, Sachi returned to her desk with the calm of someone who already knew what disaster awaited her. She opened her own notepad, rewrote all the points clearly, and prepared a fresh set of instructions—because she had zero faith that Yuvan had captured anything useful.
She turned to him."Yuvan, come here. I'll explain everything again."
He dragged his chair closer, half interested, half bored, but he sat.
Sachi began going through the brief—client expectations, campaign direction, deliverables. She was mid-sentence when Neha walked up with her bag already on her shoulder.
"Sachi, I'm leaving. Today's TRP Foods shoot is scheduled, so I need to be on set."
"Okay," Sachi nodded, still writing. "And schedule a meeting with Crestline for tomorrow at 11 AM."
"Done," Neha said, and left.
A few minutes later, Ricky appeared, looking around the department.
"Where's Neha? I needed her to check the draft—"
Sachi looked up. "Ricky, she left for the TRP Foods shoot.
"Oh," Ricky said, scratching his head. "Great. Perfect timing, as always." His eyes then landed on Yuvan. "Then intern, do one thing—scan these documents for me—"
Yuvan didn't even look at the papers."No."
Ricky blinked. "No… as in?"
"As in I'm not your assistant." Yuvan leaned back casually.
Megha stared at him like he had announced he was the CEO.Sachi blinked, speechless.Ricky… simply burst out laughing.
"Arre wah! Attitude max! Okay." He patted Yuvan's shoulder dramatically. He walked off still smiling, unfazed as always.
Sachi slowly turned to Yuvan with a look that could peel paint off walls.
He looked straight ahead. Unbothered. As if rejecting tasks was part of his natural breathing pattern.
She exhaled sharply, shoved the neatly written notes into his hand, and said, "Share this with the whole team. Properly. No shortcuts."
Yuvan accepted the paper, glanced at it once, then at her.
"Hmm," he hummed, the most non-committal response possible.
Sachi pressed her lips together.Why was mentoring him more exhausting than client work?
But she turned back to her screen and continued working—because someone in this duo had to act like a responsible adult.
Around lunchtime, Megha rolled her chair toward Sachi again."Come out for lunch, na. I'm starving."
Sachi shook her head without looking up. "Can't. I'm leaving for the meeting with Allure Boutique. They want a few changes. I'll eat later."
The moment those words left her mouth, Yuvan—who had been lazily slouched in his seat—suddenly straightened.He quietly closed his laptop, slid it into his bag, folded the notepad, and kept it aside.
Sachi finished packing her things and turned to him.
"I'm ready."
She blinked. "Ready… for what?"
"To leave," he said as if it were obvious. "We're going to the meeting, right?"
"You're not coming," Sachi clarified. "It's just a minor correction discussion."
"Did you send the minutes to everyone?"
Yuvan lifted his phone, screen already open to the sent mail."Hmm. Already sent."He tilted it toward her.
Sachi nodded, relieved but also suspiciously surprised. "Good." "Still you're not coming."
Yuvan shoved his hands into his pockets. "How will I learn anything if I don't attend meetings?"Before she could interrupt, he continued, "You said I need to improve. Improve means exposure. Exposure means meetings. Meetings mean I come."
Sachi stared at him for a long second, already tired."Fine," she exhaled. "But don't say anything unnecessary."
"No promises," he smirked.
They walked toward the exit. Megha watched them leave, eyes narrowing slightly before she shrugged and returned to her screen.
Outside the building, Sachi stopped. "Okay, let's book a—"
"I'll bring my bike," Yuvan cut in and started walking.
"No," she said immediately. "We're going by cab."
He turned back, completely unfazed. "I'm not sitting in a cab when we can reach in half the time. You're coming on the bike."
"Yuvan—"
"Don't waste time," he said, already moving. "I'll get the bike. You wait."
Sethi entered MM's cabin with a file in hand."Sir, just to update… Yuvan has gone with Sachi to attend a client meeting."
MM's brows shot up. "Meeting? He actually went?"
"Yes, sir," Sethi said, almost amused. "He insisted."
For a moment, MM just sat back in his chair, pleasantly surprised.Then he smiled—one of those rare, satisfied smiles that came only when his instincts proved right.
Sethi nodded with a polite bow and left the room.
Across the city, in the quiet VIP room of a hospital, Sushant sat beside his mother Sneha, holding her hand gently. She lay on the bed, pale but still dignified.
"Where is your father?" she asked softly.
"He's busy," Sushant replied. "Meetings, calls… the usual. So you get well soon, okay? Then we can go out on a date."
Sneha chuckled weakly. "Sushant… now you should go on dates with proper girl. Not me."
He rolled his eyes but smiled. "Mom…"
"I do have a few options in mind—" she began.
But Sushant stood immediately, avoiding the topic. "I'll get your food and medicines."
Before she could protest, he squeezed her hand lightly and walked out.
Sneha exhaled, staring at the door. "This boy…"
At Allure Boutique, the glass door chimed softly as Sachi and Yuvan stepped inside.The place was elegant—pastel walls, floating racks, and warm lighting.
A young woman, stylish and confident, came forward. "Hi, Sachi. Welcome."She shook Sachi's hand, then glanced curiously at Yuvan. "Please come to my cabin."
Inside, Shreya began explaining the required changes—tone of the copy, color adjustments for the new collection, and a revised launch plan.
Sachi nodded, taking notes, occasionally adding sharper, cleaner ideas.
"If you place the spotlight diagonally," she suggested, "your catalogue will look more premium. Also, try soft beige instead of bright white—it compliments your pastels."
Shreya's eyes lit up. "That's actually very good."
Yuvan sat beside Sachi, surprisingly attentive. He watched her confidence, her clarity, the ease with which she analyzed branding—something he never imagined could be… admirable.
Just then, Shreya's phone rang."Sorry, important call. I'll just be back."
She stepped out. The cabin fell silent.
Sachi leaned back, admiring the boutique through the glass. The neat arrangement, the dream-like shades, the curated designs—it reminded her of Urvi.
When will her day come? When will she open her own boutique like this?
Lost in thought, she stood up and wandered outside, taking pictures of the displays.
Yuvan followed a step behind. "You like it?" he asked casually.
"I don't have much interest," Sachi replied, still clicking pictures. "I'm just sending these to someone."
After finishing her call, Shreya returned to her cabin with an apologetic smile. "Sorry, it was important. Shall we continue?"
Shreya looked at Sachi curiously."How do you know so much about colours and designs? You're a whole package of surprises—everyone says that."
Sachi gave a small smile. "It's mostly because of my younger sister. She is a fashion Designer. We discuss these things a lot, so I pick up many ideas from her. And fortunately, they helped me here too."
"Impressive," Shreya replied, leaning in with interest.
Sachi then opened her tablet and showed a few of her sister's designs. Shreya's eyes brightened almost instantly."These are really good… actually amazing," she said honestly. "If she's interested, she can join us. We work designer-wise here—each designer has their own collection line, so customers recognise their individual work."
"I'll speak with her and let you know," Sachi said.
"Perfect.
Then by next Monday, I'll prepare a revised proposal," Sachiadded.
A few more minutes of polite conversation followed, and then Sachi and Yuvan stood up. They thanked Shreya and stepped out of the boutique together.
Outside the boutique, the sun was sharp and the wind warm. Yuvan walked ahead, pulling out his keys.
"I'll bring the bike," he said casually and went to the parking.Sachi stood there, opening her phone to check mails.
Within seconds, he stopped in front of her, helmet in one hand."Let's leave."
She sat behind him, convinced they were heading back to the office.But the moment the bike took a left instead of the straight road, she frowned.
"This is not the way to Magnus," she said, tightening her hold on the bag.
"I know," he replied simply.
"Then where are we—"
"My house," he said, as if it were the most normal thing in the world.
"Excuse me?" She leaned forward. "Why?"
"Relax," he said, not at all affected by her tone. "I already messaged May to get lunch ready. You didn't eat, and the meeting was long. You'll faint one day like this."
"What—Why would you—Yuvan!" she snapped, completely thrown off.
But he didn't look back.He just drove, utterly calm. As if taking her home for lunch was part of the internship program.
Sachi stared at his back, half-annoyed, half-confused.This boy had absolutely no sense of boundaries… By the time she could argue again, the bike stopped in front of his house.
He got off first."Let's go," he said, holding the gate open for her.
"Yuvan, I am not coming inside—"
"You are," he said, turning to her with a matter-of-fact expression. "Otherwise May will get scolded for making food you didn't eat."
She froze. "You scold May?"
"Obviously not," he muttered. "But she'll feel bad… and then Iwill feel bad. So just come inside."
Sachi blinked. Defeated, she sighed and stepped inside, mumbling,"Unbelievable…"
Yuvan smirked very slightly as he closed the door behind her.
The moment Sachi stepped inside, one thought struck her instantly:
"This house always gives me mafia-vibe."
Too quiet. Too big. Too spotless.And definitely too lavish for a 21-year-old who acted like a walking headache.
Her eyes instinctively travelled toward the dining area—and she froze.
The entire lunch was already served.Fresh rotis wrapped in a cloth. Paneer simmering in gravy. Dal perfectly tempered. The sabzi still steaming.
And something else caught her eye.
Last time… there was only one chair.
Today, there were two. One pulled out neatly, as if waiting for her.
Before she could process that, May walked out of the kitchen, her smile warm and motherly.
"Arre, you brought her!" Sachi flushed. "Hello… I didn't know I was coming."
"Obviously," Yuvan muttered behind her. "If I told you, you would've fought with me."
Sachi glared at him.May laughed. "You must be Sachi. Come. Sit. Food is getting cold."
Yuvan casually walked past her and pulled the chair out farther."Sit. I'm hungry."
She rolled her eyes and sat.
May served them lovingly. Sachi smiled politely. Yuvan smirked. "Told you."
"This doesn't justify you dragging me here," she said under her breath.
"It's not dragging. It's forcefully caring. Don't confuse."
"Same thing, Yuvan!"
May chuckled. "You two argue like an old couple."
Sachi instantly stiffened. Sachi focused on her plate.Yuvan leaned slightly toward her, a quiet smile tugging at his lips. He whispered, low enough that only she could hear. "I don't mind dating a serious-face, you know." "And I guess you agreed too… right?"
Sachi's head snapped toward him, eyes wide. "Agreed to what?" she whispered sharply. "You're hallucinating."
He tilted his head. "Are you sure? You didn't deny it earlier."
Sachi glared at him and went back to her food, cheeks slightly warm.
Yuvan leaned back, very satisfied
But as soon as Sachi tasted the paneer—fresh, perfectly cooked—her shoulders loosened.
Yuvan watched her reaction like it was the most interesting thing in the room.
After a few more minutes, May left to get dessert. May returned with two bowls of chilled kheer and served.
Sachi took one bite and melted inside—it was perfect. Yuvan leaned his cheek on his palm, eyes fixed on her. "Next time," he said quietly, "come because you want to… not because I drag you."
Her breath hitched. "Eat quietly," she muttered. "Can't," he said with a smile. "You're sitting right in front of me."
After finishing the meal, Sachi stood up and thanked May with a small, sincere smile."Thank you, May. The food was delicious." May's eyes softened. "Anytime, dear."
Yuvan grabbed his keys, and the two headed toward the door.As they walked out, May lingered in the dining room for a moment, watching Yuvan's retreating back.
A warm smile touched her face. It had been a long time since she'd seen him this light, this amused, this… alive. "Good for you, young master," she whispered to herself, before turning back to her duties.
"Go to TRP Foods," she instructed plainly. "You'll get more experience there. Meet Neha, help her. Don't argue."
Yuvan frowned immediately. "I don't want to go." "Yuvan," she warned softly but firmly, "please. It's important."
He sighed dramatically but gave in. "Fine. He dropped her at the office first, then reluctantly headed toward TRP Foods.
At Magnus Group
Sachi had just reached her floor when Megha joined her. They were discussing the boutique meeting and they got back to work. After an hour Megha's phone rang.
"TRP Foods?" she murmured, confused.She answered—and her expression dropped instantly.
"What? Canceling the deal? Why?" Megha asked, voice tight.
A pause.A sigh.And then—shock.
"Because… Yuvan?" she repeated louder, staring at Sachi.
Before Sachi could ask anything, the lift dinged and Neha hurried in with Yuvan right behind her. Megha rushed to them.
"What happened at TRP Foods?"
Neha's hands trembled; she avoided Sachi's eyes."N-Nothing… it's nothing…"
Yuvan stepped in front of her."It was my fault," he said calmly. "But I'm not apologizing."
"What?!" Megha stared at him as if he'd lost his mind.
Before anyone could speak, SM came storming into the department, expression thunderous."I just got a call from TRP Foods! What is going on?!"
His eyes landed sharply on Megha. "You were handling this! How could—"
"It was my responsibility," Sachi cut in instantly, stepping forward."I'll take care of it, sir."
SM's voice rose. "Take care? The deal is on the line, Sachi! We don't work like this!"
His words echoed across the entire department.Everyone froze.Even Yuvan, who had started stepping forward, stopped when Sachi subtly lifted her hand behind her—silently telling him not now.
SM left in anger.
The moment he was gone, the office fell into heavy silence.Only one sound remained—the rapid, steady tapping of Sachi'skeyboard as she sat down and began working without a word.
Even Megha didn't dare approach her.
Yuvan watched her back, guilt tightening in his chest, but before he could go to her, Megha stopped him. "Don't," she whispered. "Let her breathe."
One Hour Later
Sachi finally closed her laptop, packed her things, and quietly walked toward the lift.
Yuvan immediately followed her. "Sachi," he called, soft but desperate. "It wasn't your fault. Why did you took the blame on yourself"
She turned, calm as ever.
"Yuvan… indirectly, it is my fault," she said gently. "I was careless today. It's okay."
"You're not even blaming me?" he asked, stunned.
She gave him a small, tired smile."No. And don't blame yourself either."
Then she stepped into the lift. The doors closed.
Yuvan stood there, staring at the metal doors, wondering for the first time—
How can someone stay so calm after being yelled at for something I did?
And for the first time, something like responsibility—or maybe protectiveness—stirred quietly inside him.
Yuvan rode back home on his bike, but the entire journey feltslow. Restlessness prickled under his skin.
He parked the bike, stepped inside, and paced the length of his room twice.No use. He couldn't calm down.
With a sharp exhale, he pulled out his phone and called someone—the conversation was short, quiet.
The moment the call ended, he stood still for only a second.
Then he turned right around, picked up his helmet, and walked straight back out.
He started his bike again—he stopped only when he reached Sachi's house.
The engine died, he removed his helmet, stared up at the building entrance for a long moment.
The lights in the lobby glowed softly, reflecting on the glass doors. He could see the shadow of the guard inside, flipping through a newspaper. Everything looked calm. He took a step forward—inside the building, the familiar scent of disinfectant and warm lights greeted him. The lift stood open, waiting.
As the lift climbed floor by floor, the numbers blinked slowly in front of him.5… 6… 7…
The lift dinged.
He stepped out onto her floor, the corridor quiet, dim.Her door stood at the far end—simple, brown, perfectly ordinary. He walked toward it, every step echoing in the silence.He stopped in front of her door and knocked.
The door opened.
Sachi froze for a second, shocked to see Yuvan standing there with his helmet in one hand and attitude fully intact.She stepped aside wordlessly, letting him in.
"Why are you here?" she finally asked.
Yuvan didn't answer. Instead, he casually scanned her apartment, nodding like he was evaluating a hotel suite.
"Well organised," he commented. His eyes then landed on her laptop lying open on the couch. "Workaholic spotted."
"Yuvan," she repeated, "reason?"
He turned to her with a straight—and annoyingly witty—expression."You left like nothing happened. Anyway, I'm here to eat dinner."
Sachi blinked. "Seriously?"
"Yes," Yuvan said as if it were the most logical thing on earth. "Today you had lunch at my place, so dinner at your place. Fair enough. Balance maintained."
Sachi sighed. "Okay, fine. Let me serve something for you that you'll never forget in your whole life."
She walked into the kitchen, reheated her simple dal, sabzi, and rice in the oven, and served everything properly on the dining table.
Yuvan looked at the plates… then at her.
"What is this? Are we having breakfast?" He frowned. "Even my breakfast menu is bigger than this."
Sachi crossed her arms. "Yuvan, now you tell me why you actually came here. You didn't leave your lavish dinner to eat this."
Yuvan ignored her attitude and took a bite of the dal–rice mix.
He chewed.Looked at her.And said in the most serious tone, "Your cooking is exactly like your face expression—serious and lame."
Sachi glared. "Isn't that a good reason for you not to come here again?"
Yuvan took another spoonful anyway. "Still… there's warmth."
That one line made her blink, but before she could react, he continued:
"What is your plan?"
"Plan?" Sachi asked.
"Yes, plan. I'm training under you, so we're one team. Andmaybe I can be useful. Now tell me how you're handling it."
Sachi exhaled. "I'm planning to expose the head chef. And also make sure the deal isn't cancelled."
Yuvan leaned back, nodding. "Good. But first—"he pointed at her plate, "complete your dinner."
NEXT MORNING – TRP FOODS
Sachi reached TRP Foods early, her file clutched tightly in her hand and Neha was already waiting.Yuvan arrived a minute later on his bike, removing his helmet with that usual silent confidence.
They walked in together.
INSIDE THE TRP BOARD ROOM
The Manager, the Head Chef, a few supervisors were already present.
The moment the Head Chef saw Yuvan, he smirked and folded his arms like he owned the room.
Before he could start his drama, Sachi stepped forward calmly.
"Before any decision is taken," she said, placing her file on the table, "I want to submit something."
The Manager raised a brow. "Yes, Ms. Sachi?"
Sachi opened the file.Inside were written statements—signatures of past female employees, all saying the same thing:
The Head Chef had a history of inappropriate behaviour.Sachi continued, "These women didn't complain because they were scared of losing their jobs. Yesterday, I contacted them. Every story matched. Every detail matched."
The Chef's face turned pale for a second, then he regained his arrogance.
"This is fake! They are lying because they were fired for incompetence!"
Before anyone could react—
Yuvan stepped forward.
"Incompetence?" he repeated softly. "Then what about this?"
He nodded at the Manager.Two minutes later, a staff member entered with a laptop connected to the projector.This was something Yuvan had arranged through his "upper-level help" late last night—security access he normally wasn'tallowed to request.
The CCTV footage played.
Neha was asked to come into cold storage room.
The Head Chef following her.
Him cornering her.Her flinching. And then—
Yuvan storming in, dragging the Chef back and pushing him away.
Pin-drop silence.
Neha's eyes filled.The Chef's face drained of colour.
The Manager slowly turned toward the Head Chef, furious."You hid this? You blamed them?"
The Chef stuttered, "I— I was only—" "Enough," the Manager snapped. "Get out. Right now. Security!"
Two guards walked in and escorted the Chef out.
"Wait." Sachi's voice echoed through the conference room.
Everyone turned.
She walked up to the Head Chef, her steps calm but her eyes sharp with controlled fury.The Chef tried to look away, embarrassed, terrified, defeated.
Sachi stopped right in front of him. And without a single hesitation—
SLAP.
A sharp, echoing one.Across his face.The entire room froze.
Yuvan didn't even blink—he looked almost proud.
Sachi's voice was steady, firm, and loud enough for everyone to hear.
"For misbehaving with my colleague," she said, "I'm filing a complaint. You don't get to walk away like it's nothing."
The Chef clutched his cheek, eyes wide with humiliation and fear.
Security took him away.
The Manager didn't stop her.No one did.Everyone knew she was right.
Sachi, exhaled once, and turned toward Yuvan.
He whispered, "Remind me never to get on your bad side."
For the first time that morning, Sachi smiled.
The Manager exhaled deeply and looked at Sachi and Yuvan.
"I apologise on behalf of TRP Foods. The deal is not cancelled. We value your company and the honesty you brought here today."
Neha whispered, "Thank you… both of you."
Sachi simply smiled.Yuvan stuffed his hands into his pockets like it was nothing, but his eyes softened when he glanced at Sachi.
They walked out together.
Neha's eyes filled with tears she turned to Sachi, wiping her cheek nervously.
"Sachi… I'm sorry," she whispered. "I keep troubling you every day. But… thank you. For trusting us. For standing up for me."
Sachi placed a hand on her shoulder—firm, reassuring.
"Neha, you both work under me," she said softly, "so there will never be room for anything wrong. And listen—everyone is imperfect. We all learn from mistakes. You should be glad you experienced this early… next time, don't freeze. Just walk out. Be brave."
Neha nodded, sniffling.
Behind them, Yuvan watched silently—his expression softer than usual.For once, he had no sarcastic comment.
He turned to leave, heading toward his bike. Sachi noticed.
"Yuvan," she called out,"drop Neha to the office."
His answer came instantly—flat and shameless, "No."
And before she could scold him, he put on his helmet, swung his leg over his bike, and rode off straight toward Magnus Group, not even looking back.
Neha blinked.Sachi sighed.Typical Yuvan.
"Come on," Sachi said. "We'll take a cab."
Both got into a cab and headed toward the office.
By the time Sachi and Neha reached the office, the whole floor was buzzing again—half in shock, half in relief. SM had already calmed down after hearing the TRP Foods manager apologize for the misunderstanding. Megha rushed to them the moment they stepped in.
"Everything okay? They called and said the deal is continuing," she whispered, eyes wide.
Sachi just nodded. "Handled."
Neha kept her head down, embarrassed. Megha gave her a small pat on the back and went back to her desk.
Yuvan was already at his workstation, pretending to be deeply invested in his laptop—though everyone knew he wasn't. The moment he saw Sachi, he looked away as if he had done nothing special all morning.
Sachi didn't say anything either.She just sat, opened her laptop, and got back to wor
By late afternoon, the whole office felt light again. SM suddenly clapped his hands once, loud enough for everyone to look up.
"Tonight, dinner is on me!" he declared.
A cheer erupted instantly.
Ricky was already typing furiously on his phone. "Sir, I'm shortlisting places. Should I keep it budget-friendly or treat-friendly?"
SM glared. "Budget-friendly for you, treat-friendly for me."
"Perfect!" Ricky grinned. "I'll find something expensive that looks cheap."
Rekha smacked his arm. "Idiot."
Even SM laughed as he walked away.
By evening, everyone packed up and headed down together. Sachi joined quietly, still finishing a client message. Yuvan was walking toward his bike, completely uninterested in the celebration.
Ricky spotted him and grabbed his backpack. "Yuvan! Team dinner! Come."
"No—"
"Yes," Ricky insisted, dragging him. "We suffered together, we eat together."
Yuvan scowled but ended up walking with them anyway.
At the restaurant, the Magnus team filled a long table. Rekha, SM, Ricky, Megha, Neha, Varun, Sachi… and, reluctantly, Yuvan.
Varun waved warmly at both of them."Good evening, Sachi. Yuvan."
This time Yuvan actually nodded back—expression flat, but it was an acknowledgment. Varun looked pleasantly surprised.
Everyone settled. Ricky tried to sit next to Sachi, but Yuvan stepped in smoothly and took the seat. Megha sat on Sachi'sother side. Ricky groaned and squeezed himself between SM and Neha. Neha instantly blushed.
Food ordered, drinks were served. Everyone sipped beer or cocktails—except Sachi, who sipped her lemon soda, still busy on her phone coordinating with a client. Yuvan noticed but said nothing.
Midway through, Ricky clapped. "Let's play a game! Bottle spin. Whoever it points at will tell someone else to finish a full beer glass."
Everyone cheered and the bottle spun.
First round—pointed at Varun. He made Ricky chug.Second round—pointed at Megha. She made SM drink (which he pretended to refuse, then proudly finished).
Third spin… the bottle slowed… hesitated… then stopped exactly at SM and he pointed at Sachi.
The table howled. "No, no, no, I don't drink—" Sachi protested.
"Office rule," SM laughed. "Tonight, you must."
Sachi froze, eyes wide, genuinely distressed. Before she could react, a hand reached forward.
Yuvan.
He pulled the glass toward himself and drank it in one shot.
The table erupted.
Sachi just stared at him. Completely frozen.Something unfamiliar fluttered in her chest—not admiration, not shock… something warmer.
She didn't know it, but she fell for him a little right there.
Dinner wrapped up with laughter and chaos. One by one, the team left the restaurant.
At the exit, Yuvan quietly said, "Let's go. I'll drop you."
This time, Sachi didn't argue.Outside the restaurant, the night air was cool. Sachi stood near the entrance, arms folded.
Yuvan unlocked his bike, glanced at her once, then held out the spare helmet.
"Wear it," he said.
Sachi took it silently.The moment she sat behind him, her fingers automatically reached for the back handle—but the sudden jerk of the bike made her lose balance and she grabbed his shoulders on instinct.
Yuvan smirked. "Relax, I won't drop you."
"I'm not scared," she muttered, tightening her hold anyway.
They drove through the dim roads, city lights flickering past. For the first time, neither of them spoke. Sachi just listened to the wind, the soft hum of the engine, and her own racing heartbeat. Halfway through, he said quietly, almost teasing,"You know… you shouldn't fall for people who drink your punishment drinks."
"Who said I'm falling?" she snapped too quickly.
"Hmm. Your grip says otherwise."
She instantly loosened it. He laughed under his breath.
They stopped in front of her building. Sachi climbed off, awkward, pushing her hair behind her ear.
"Thanks… for the drop," she said softly.
Yuvan looked at her for a moment—too long, too direct and then he started the bike again and rode away.
Two weeks passed in a blur.The TRP Foods proposal approved. Work moved on, but Sachineeded a break. She'd been waiting for a chance to meet Urviand talk about Shreya's offer.
So she took a day off.
They met outside the theatre, just like old times, to watch their favorite horror movie. Meanwhile, at Magnus Group, Yuvan walked into the office and instantly noticed the empty seat beside his.
He frowned.
"Megha, is Sachi in a meeting?" he asked, pretending to sound casual.
Megha looked up from her screen. "No, she took leave today."
A beat.Yuvan blinked. "Why? Is she unwell?"
"No, she sounded fine when I called her in the morning," Meghasaid, shrugging. "Don't ask me why she didn't come. I'm not her diary."
Yuvan clicked his tongue. "Useless. I'm leaving. Headache."
"Huh…," Megha muttered as he walked off.
He tried calling Sachi, but her phone was on silent inside a dark movie theatre.Annoyed, clueless, and restless, he decided to go straight to her house.
After the movie, Sachi and Urvi wandered toward the mall. On the first floor, Sachi spotted the bowling arena—she recalled playing with Yuvan. For a moment she froze, memories hitting her all at once.
Then, without warning, she grabbed Urvi's wrist."Come," Sachi said.
"What? Where?" Urvi laughed.
"Just come!"
They played two rounds. Sachi was unusually energetic, almost childlike—cheering, laughing, jumping every time Urvi knocked down a pin.
Urvi stared at her, stunned."This is new. Since when do you get excited about games?"Sachi shrugged but couldn't hide her smile.
Urvi didn't know who was responsible for this change, but she was happy to see her sister like this.
When Yuvan reached Sachi's house, he rang the bell once… twice… no response.He stepped back, annoyed."Where did she go?" he muttered.
He finally accepted she wasn't home and left.
Later, Sachi and Urvi sat in a cozy café, sipping hot chocolate.
"So good, but still no one can beat your hot chocolate, Urvi," Sachi said, licking a bit of cream from her lip.
Urvi smiled proudly. "I know."
When the sun finally began to set, they walked through a quiet lane beside the park. Sachi explained everything about Shreya's offer. Urvi listened, wide-eyed and excited.
"That's huge, Didi! I definitely want to meet her," Urvi said.Sachi nodded.
Before parting, Urvi nudged her gently. "Please visit Mom sometime."
As usual, Sachi ignored the request and hugged her goodbye.
Sachi walked alone now, scrolling through her phone—until she heard a familiar, unwelcome voice.
Harsh. And beside him, clinging to his arm, was Isha—once Sachi's college friend, now the girl he cheated with.
"Oh look, Sachi," Isha smirked. "Still alone? Still acting all high and mighty?"
Harsh tugged her arm. "Isha, leave it."
But Isha didn't.
"You know, Harsh told me everything. How boring you were, how—"
Before she could finish, Sachi looked her dead in the eye, completely unbothered.
"At least I was loyal. And unlike you, I didn't need to steal someone else's boyfriend to feel relevant," Sachi said calmly.
Isha turned red. "You—" She raised her voice again—
—but stopped when someone's shadow fell between them.
Yuvan.
He had been sitting on a nearby bench, the one he always used when he needed to clear his head. The moment he saw Sachiwith Harsh and Isha, he stood up and walked straight toward her.
Without a word, he grabbed her wrist.
"How long are you planning to make me wait?" he said, loud enough for both Harsh and Isha to hear.
Sachi blinked.Harsh froze.Isha's jaw dropped.
Yuvan tilted his head, giving Harsh a cold, uninterested glance—like he wasn't even competition.
"Let's go," he said to Sachi, already walking.
She followed, stunned, as they left the two speechless behind them.
They both sat on the park bench quietly for a moment. The streetlights flickered on, washing everything in a soft gold.
"Yuvan… why are you here?" Sachi finally asked, still shaken from the encounter with Harsh and Isha.
Yuvan looked at her, jaw tight."I was finding you. At least inform me next time you're not coming. I—" he paused, softer, "—I got worried."
Sachi blinked. Worried?
He added, "Anyway, May was asking about you. She wants to invite you for dinner. If you're free… we can go today."
To his surprise, Sachi stood up immediately."Okay. Let's go."
Yuvan stared for a second, stunned."You're… coming? Seriously?"She nodded.
At Yuvan's House
They reached the gate when Miha, who had already been waiting, spotted them walking in together. Her expression turned sharp.
She stormed forward."Yuvan! Who is she? What is she doing here?"
Sachi instantly stiffened.
But Yuvan stepped in front of her—a small, protective shield without thinking twice.His voice went stern, deeper than usual."Miha, mind your tone."
Miha glared. "I'm talking to you! Why is she with you?"
Yuvan's eyes flashed as he replied,"None of your business."
Sachi looked up at him, shocked at the firmness in his voice.
Miha scoffed, "You're choosing her over me?"
Yuvan didn't even hesitate."Tonight? Yes. And if you can't behave, then don't involve yourself."
Miha stared at him, furious and speechless.
Without giving her another glance, Yuvan turned to Sachi—"Come. Let's go inside."
As soon as they entered, Sachi whispered, half-annoyed,"Wait…why is she angry at me? You should've told her I'm just your colleague."
Yuvan shrugged, completely unbothered."Who cares for explanations?"
Before she could respond, May came out with plates.Dinner was already served, and both sat. Yuvan kept teasing her about the way she ate, the way she held her spoon, even the way she blinked—Sachi tried hard to ignore him, but the corner of her lips kept fighting a smile.
After dinner, Yuvan tugged her wrist lightly."Come, I'll show you something."
He opened a door, revealing his play zone room:a mini bowling setup, an air-hockey table, a glass room filled with guitars, a mic stand, a couch, and bookshelves lining the walls.
Sachi stepped inside, wide-eyed.Yuvan grinned. "Wanna play?"
They started with bowling, then jumped to air-hockey—laughing, pushing, competing like two kids who forgot they were adults.
Inside the glass room, Sachi noticed a poster in the corner."Are you a fan of Echo3?"
Yuvan froze."…You know this band?"
"Of course. Neha dragged me to their concert last month."Yuvan's lips curved.
Sachi continued, "I love their song Fallen Star. Whoever wrote that… genius."
He smirked—a quiet, proud smirk—but said nothing.
Then her eyes fell on a photo frame:Gauresh, Kabir… and Yuvan.
She blinked. "You… know them?"Yuvan nodded casually.
Sachi whispered, shocked, "Neha would die if she met them. Don't tell me… wait you're the third member? The one whose identity is hidden?"
Yuvan didn't answer—he only smiled, grabbed her hand, and gently pulled her outside.
Under the porch light, he took out his phone and snapped a selfie of them."So, how does it feel meeting genius people?" he teased.Sachi rolled her eyes. "Genius? Please. Stop talking. Let's leave."
She crossed her arms tightly—the winter breeze was sharp, and she was clearly cold. Yuvan noticed instantly.Instead of walking to the bike, he turned."Wait here." Confused, she watched him walk into the garage.
A moment later, the gate rolled up and a black Jeep Wranglerrolled out—shining under the lights.
Yuvan stopped next to her, leaned over, and opened the passenger door.His voice was gentle, almost soft:
"Get in."
Sachi stared at the car, stunned.How rich is this guy…?
She climbed in without a word. The Jeep rolled onto the dark, quiet streets, warm air filling the cabin