Ananya carefully packed her files and laptop into her bag, her mind still buzzing from the little moment with Rehan. She adjusted her shirt and started walking toward the office exit, trying to shake off the lingering butterflies.

“Hi… Ananya, right? You’re new here?” a voice called out.

She turned slightly to see a man with a confident smile approaching her. He had sharp features, neatly combed hair, and an air of casual charm.

“Uh… yes, that’s me,” she replied politely, offering a small smile.

“I’m Rudra,” he said, extending a hand. “Just wanted to say… you’re looking really nice. New faces like yours brighten up the office.”

Ananya blinked, not quite catching the subtle flirtation in his tone. She forced a polite smile, her chest tightening with an odd sense of suffocation.

“Oh… thank you,” she murmured, gently nodding. “I… I should get going.”

Without waiting for a response, she picked up her bag and walked past him, keeping her eyes forward. Her steps were quick, purposeful. The office suddenly felt too crowded, too overwhelming, and she just wanted some air—and space—from the unwanted attention.

Ananya’s steps were quick, her mind still replaying Rudra’s lingering gaze. The suffocating feeling made her hurry toward the exit door, eager to get some fresh air.

In her rush, she didn’t notice the figure coming from the opposite direction—she bumped into someone, and a phone slipped from his hand onto the floor.

“Oh! I’m so sorry,” she exclaimed instinctively and bent down to pick up the phone.

Without looking up, she handed it over quickly, expecting a simple “thank you.”

Her eyes finally met his as she looked up—and froze.

It was Rehan.

Her heart skipped a beat. The teasing, intense gaze she had noticed earlier was now fixed on her, and for a moment, the office, the awkward encounter with Rudra, everything, seemed to fade away.

“Thanks,” Rehan said, his voice calm but carrying that faint edge of amusement she knew all too well.

Ananya’s lips parted slightly, caught between embarrassment and the sudden rush of recognition.

The office workers who happened to be passing by froze in their tracks, their mouths slightly open in disbelief.

Rehan—the same Rehan who was infamous for his grumpy attitude, his razor-sharp temper, and his habit of yelling at anyone who made even the smallest mistake—was standing completely calm. His phone had slipped from his hand while he was on a call, and yet he wasn’t raising his voice.

All eyes were on the scene: the usually intimidating, strict, and unapproachable Rehan, silently taking the phone back from a girl who had accidentally bumped into him.

“He… he didn’t yell at her?” one intern whispered, nudging a colleague.

“Not even a single shout,” another murmured, still staring, completely shocked. “And his phone… he didn’t even scold her for it!”

Even those who had long grown used to Rehan’s temper felt their jaws drop. Some exchanged hurried glances, silently acknowledging that this girl—Ananya—was clearly someone special if even Rehan couldn’t bring himself to lose his composure.

Meanwhile, Rehan’s calm demeanor remained unshaken, though there was a subtle, unreadable flicker in his eyes as he looked at her—one that none of the onlookers could interpret.

Ananya’s cheeks heated instantly, a mix of embarrassment and disbelief flooding her. She could feel every pair of eyes in the office on her, and her heart raced like she had just done something scandalous—though all she had done was bump into him.

Why… why isn’t he shouting at me? she thought, still holding her breath. He’s… he’s Rehan! The same guy who scares everyone here just by glaring at them.

Her mind raced, trying to make sense of it. The way he calmly took his phone, the faint amusement in his eyes… it was unlike anything she had ever seen from him. Every worker passing by had that shocked look, and suddenly Ananya felt painfully aware of her own presence.

She shuffled her feet, wanting to shrink into the floor. Okay, focus, Ananya… just… just say something normal. Don’t embarrass yourself further.

But even as she tried to steady herself, she couldn’t help stealing a quick glance at Rehan. That calm, composed exterior… that subtle flicker of something she couldn’t name… made her heart skip again.

She had no idea that this small, accidental encounter would leave such a strong mark on both her and everyone watching.

---

Rehan’s gaze swept over the group of shocked onlookers, and his calm, commanding voice cut through the office murmurs.

“Everyone… get back to work,” he said firmly, his eyes sharp as daggers. The employees immediately scattered, muttering apologies under their breath, still trying to process what they had just seen.

Then, his attention shifted back to Ananya. His voice softened slightly, though still carrying that unmistakable authority.

“Ms. Mehra… I will see your project tomorrow. I’m a little busy today.”

Ananya’s mouth dropped open. Wait… what? She blinked, stunned.

“Wh-what?” she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. She had been expecting at least a comment about the bump, or maybe a brief scolding—but this? He was… letting it slide?

Rehan simply gave her a faint, unreadable smile before straightening and walking away, leaving Ananya frozen in place, her mind spinning with disbelief.

Ananya finally reached her apartment, grateful for the quiet after the chaos at the office. The space was beautiful—minimal luxury with soft neutral tones, sleek furniture, and carefully placed decor that made it feel both elegant and cozy.

She let out a long sigh, the exhaustion from the day weighing heavily on her shoulders. Slowly, she climbed the stairs to her room.

The moment she stepped inside, she dropped her bag onto the bed with a thud and let herself collapse onto it, stretching out completely. The soft sheets and quiet comfort were a stark contrast to the hectic energy of the office.

After a moment of just lying there, she grabbed her phone and quickly opened a message to her best friend, Esha.

"I’m so exhausted, yaar," she typed, letting out another sigh as she hit send.

---

Her phone buzzed almost immediately:

"Uh-oh… what happened? Spill it, ex-drama incoming? 😏"

Ananya typed quickly, letting out her frustration:

"First, there was this guy at the office, Rudra… he was flirting or something. Felt so suffocated, had to rush out."

Then, almost in disbelief, she added:

"And then… I bumped into Rehan."

Esha’s phone buzzed instantly, full of excitement:

"Wait… Rehan? THE Rehan? Your ex?! 😱 Tell me everything!"

Ananya smiled faintly, recalling the day’s events:

"Yes… him. But he’s so different now. Strict, grumpy, yells at everyone for tiny mistakes. And today… I bumped into him, his phone fell, and he didn’t yell at me. Not a single word! Just calmly said he’ll see my project tomorrow. I… I don’t even know what’s happening 😳"

Esha’s reply came immediately, a mix of teasing and curiosity:

"Oh wow 😏… your ex-Rehan turned scary office Rehan, but still has his calm moments? This is getting interesting!"

Ananya ,tossing her phone onto the bed for a moment and staring at the ceiling. Despite being exhausted, she let herself sink into the comfort of her room, grateful for a quiet moment away from the chaos of the office.

"Yeah… just an exhausting day, that’s all," she typed back, keeping her deeper feelings to herself.

---

Just as Ananya was about to put her phone aside, it rang. Seeing Esha’s name flash on the screen, she sighed and answered.

“Hello?” she said tiredly.

“Madam ji,” Esha’s cheerful voice chimed through, “apki exhaustion dur karne ke liye I have an idea!”

Ananya raised an eyebrow, half-smiling despite her tiredness. “Oh really? And what’s that?”

“There’s a new club in town. Meet me there 😉. I’ll message you the address. Trust me, you’ll forget all your office stress in no time!”

Ananya let out a small laugh, feeling a tiny spark of excitement amidst her exhaustion. “Alright, Esha… send me the address. I’ll think about it.”

“Think about it? No thinking! Just come! I’m counting on you,"Esha teased before hanging up.

Ananya placed her phone back on the bed, shaking her head with a smile. Despite the tiring day, the idea of a night out with Esha made her feel… lighter, almost like a small escape from everything.

---

Ananya sighed again, swinging her legs off the bed. The thought of stepping out after such an exhausting day made her feel a little lazy, but Esha’s excitement was contagious. She knew a night out could be just the distraction she needed.

She headed to her wardrobe and quickly chose a bold yet elegant outfit—a sleek, black bodycon dress that hugged her curves perfectly. It was daring, confident, and ideal for a night at the club.

Next, she went to her vanity. She brushed her hair into soft waves and applied makeup to match her look: smoky eyes, a touch of shimmer on her cheeks, and a deep red lip that added an extra edge. She wore simple earrings and a delicate bracelet that would catch the club lights just right.

Before leaving, she double-checked that she had her phone, wallet, and keys. She took a deep breath, admiring her reflection for a moment. The dress made her feel bold, powerful, and ready to escape the day’s stress.

“Alright, Esha… let’s see what this night brings,” she murmured to herself, locking the door behind her as she stepped out, confidence radiating with every step.

At Obsidian Lounge

The neon lights of The Obsidian Lounge glimmered against the sleek black exterior as Ananya approached the entrance. The bouncer gave her a quick nod after checking her name on the guest list, and she stepped inside, instantly enveloped by the club’s opulent atmosphere.

The interior was a perfect blend of luxury and glamour—dark velvet drapes, golden accents, crystal chandeliers, and ambient lights that danced across the polished floors. The faint thrum of music mixed with the soft chatter of the elite crowd, creating an intoxicating energy.

Ananya adjusted her black bodycon dress as she walked through the crowd, feeling the fabric hug her perfectly. Her heels clicked lightly on the marble floor, drawing the occasional glance, though she barely noticed. Her eyes scanned the room until she spotted a familiar figure waving enthusiastically from the VIP section.

“Ananya! Over here!” Esha called out, already perched comfortably with a drink in hand.

Ananya smiled, weaving through the crowd to reach her friend. “Esha, this place is… wow,” she murmured, taking in the luxurious décor and lively atmosphere.

Esha grinned mischievously. “Told you! This place is perfect for letting loose after a long day. Come, sit—I’ve saved you a spot!”

Ananya settled beside her, letting the music and energy of The club wash over her. For the first time since leaving the office, she felt a spark of excitement—and maybe, just a little thrill.

The rhythmic bass of the music vibrating through the floor. The golden ambient lights danced across the room, and for the first time all day, she felt herself loosening up a little.

“What should we drink?” Esha asked, eyes twinkling with mischief as she flipped through the menu.

Ananya skimmed the list and said softly, “I’ll have a cranberry Moscow mule. Sounds refreshing.”

“Perfect choice,” Esha smirked before looking up at the waiter. “One cranberry Moscow mule… and one Sex on the Beach for me.”

Ananya froze mid-breath, her eyes going wide. She whipped her head toward Esha in utter disbelief.

“Excuse me?” she hissed, tugging Esha’s arm and pulling her closer. “Did you just… did you just say that out loud?”

Esha blinked innocently. “What? That’s the name of the drink!”

Ananya’s jaw dropped, her cheeks warming with embarrassment. “How can that even be the name of a drink? Who names it like that?” she whispered, glancing nervously around as if the whole club had heard.

Esha burst out laughing, shaking her head. “What can I do, yaar? I didn’t invent it! Chill, it’s just a cocktail.”

Ananya buried her face in her hands, groaning. “God, you’re impossible.”

The waiter returned a moment later with their drinks, setting down the crystal glasses with a polite nod. Ananya cautiously picked up hers, the chilled copper mug cold against her palm, while Esha proudly raised her scandalously named cocktail with a grin.

“To new beginnings,” Esha said dramatically.

Ananya sighed, shaking her head but clinking her glass anyway. “To… you and your shamelessness.”

They both laughed, and Ananya took her first sip, the tang of cranberry and ginger spreading warmth through her chest, making her forget—for just a moment—the mess her life had become.

---

Ananya set her drink down and let herself relax into the music, swaying slightly to the beat. Esha had already moved closer to the dance floor, pulling her along with infectious energy. For a few moments, Ananya felt free—laughing, letting go, and forgetting the tension of the office.

But then… something made her freeze.

Across the bar, by the golden-lit counter, her eyes caught a familiar figure. Her heart skipped a beat, and suddenly all the warmth and lightness she felt drained away.

It was Rehan.

And he wasn’t alone. A stylish, confident-looking woman leaned against him, laughing at something he said. His hand rested lightly on her back, and the sight of them together made Ananya’s chest tighten.

Her fingers trembled slightly around her glass, the music turning into a blur. She blinked, trying to convince herself she was imagining it.

Esha noticed her sudden stillness. “Ananya? What’s wrong?” she asked, following her gaze.

Ananya’s voice was barely a whisper. “It… it’s Rehan. He’s… with another girl.”

Esha frowned, but a teasing smirk appeared. “Well, I guess your perfect ex is enjoying his night too. Don’t worry, yaar… you’re here to have fun, remember?”

Ananya swallowed hard, her heart pounding. She wanted to tell herself Esha was right, but seeing him there—so close, so casual—stirred feelings she hadn’t dared face yet.

She took a deep breath, gripping her glass tighter. Tonight, she had come to escape… but somehow, Rehan had found his way into her escape.

---

Ananya took another sip of the strong drink, trying to ignore the sight of Rehan laughing with another girl. The chatter and music around her faded… until the opening notes of “I Hate Luv Storys” hit her ears.

Her hand froze mid-air, the glass trembling slightly. That was their song. The same song that had played when they had danced together at their friends party—the one where they first saw each other, their laughter, teasing, and sparks had filled the room. She could almost see him there, close, challenging her to match his moves, and the silly grin he wore as he tried to make her stumble. Boys & Girls competition on who's dance better?

The memory hit her like a wave, sharp and bittersweet, and she couldn’t move. Her heart remembered everything the song held—every glance, every laugh, every stolen moment between them.

---

The crowd around them seemed to blur, but Rehan’s ears caught the first familiar chords of “I Hate Luv Storys”. His hand, mid-gesture, froze. His heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, the world seemed to shrink to the memory the song held—the way Ananya had laughed, the way she had challenged him to match his steps, the way their hands had almost touched.

Then, as if drawn by the same invisible thread, their eyes met across the room. Time slowed. The noise, the laughter, the clinking glasses—all of it melted away. All Rehan could see was her—the girl who had made that song their story.

For a heartbeat, neither moved. Recognition, surprise, and something unspoken flickered between them, heavier than any words could carry.

To be continue...

***********************************

Author Note

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