sweet nothings

Kunal: Look at you...and you said it's a silly selfie, not so much. You look absolutely beautiful 😍

Kunal: Dessert before dinner is always my favourite so yes please.

Kunal: It's true and honestly...I've already got HR looking into new associates if I ned them. But they do deserve it.

Kunal: You're a little biased my dear, so maybe I won't believe you right now.

Kunal: Great, I'll be excited to see you as always. Listen--I never 'ruin' anything, but I do think maybe I could do a little gifting for the woman who owns my heart. Don't you think?

Naz: Thank you babe, I know you're just saying that because it's your fave look on me when I wake up.

Naz: It'll be dessert and a midnight snack knowing you hehehe... 🤭

Naz: There's an intake soon right? I haven't seen the list yet, but I'll double check with HR. Would be good to have some of ours mentor the newbies - and push out the ones we don't want. Like those Suits boys sigh.

Naz: I am biased. So it's actually in your benefit to believe me. After all, I only ever go for the best. 😏

Naz: You know how much I love being spoiled by you. But honestly, I'd rather your attention right now. Clothes are merely optional. 💋

Kunal: Accha okay that's okay and pls send me ALL the selfies. Your face is my favourite to stare at.

Kunal: Hmmmm that's fine with me, I'm more excited about dessert. 🤤

Kunal: That's the truth but I'm not warning them--they're adults and they should know better. Their boss is hot sure--but not as hot as her boss 😉

Naz: [IMG_2389] just for you babe. 😘

Naz: Dessert before dinner okay with you? 🍭

Naz: Wah, what a mentor. I know you just want to see what happens because yes they deserve it, but I am worried it's going to be sooner than expected.

Naz: Two extremely hot bosses huh? Don't mind me, but I prefer their boss. He's just my type. 🥰

Naz: Sounds like a plan to me... 💋

Kunal: Please never censor yourself around me. You know neither of us need that.

Kunal: I think it'd be best if you picked up food from there and brought it back to your place? I just don't feel like having to answer questions in case I run into anyone..who knows her.

Kunal: You think I can stop them? They think she's beautiful and they're hoping for a 'Suits' like romance.

Naz: Arrey baba, I don’t censor myself around you. I meant I’d have to censor myself on Teams. Especially when I like sending you silly selfies. Which you won’t admit to, but do enjoy.

Naz: I get it. Any specific cuisine? I was thinking of the gyoza ramen, idk why but I have a craving for something hot.

Naz: There are better shows to base romances off, like Boston Legal for one. Just warn them that HR is an actual department and her boss isn’t afraid to haul them there. Even if their boss is hot 🔥

The Alibaug bungalow really was a thing of beauty and he had come here a lot more often after marriage—sometimes with Sheena and sometimes without but he tried to make it a monthly thing in the initial days but then life got busy and work got hectic and so now if he got out there even twice a year—that was a success. He followed her in, keeping his own bag off to the side of the hallway leading towards the bedrooms as he listened to her words and found it unbelievable what she said about trying his preferred fast food. “My Naz—this Naz…same difference,” he told her with a cocky smile—aware that while she was trying to differentiate between the two—he was not allowing that to happen. 

“You can sleep by the pool…just know that I’ll probably carry you back to bed anyways,” Kunal told her with a shrug, “sometimes we get too many little bugs out there and I wouldn’t want them to attack you…” Kunal’s voice dropped slightly, letting her know that he’d much prefer doing the attacking himself rather than allowing bugs to have that enjoyment. He led her to the bedroom and knew that she would find it beautiful—such was the way the entire place had been designed. They’d gone with a lot of open spaces and a neutral colour palette to ensure that it felt a lot more clean and fresh whenever they were here. 

He allowed her to venture deeper in the ensuite, choosing that moment to grab his own bag and wheeled it into the bedroom, keeping it near the closet which he forgot housed a lot of Sheena’s things still but luckily for him—it seemed like Naz had ignored that side and kept her things on the neutral section that had been left untouched so far.  He stood there in the doorway, just watching her with his arms crossed—leaning against the frame, still stunned that this moment was actually happening. She was here, with him, alone on a weekend away. His intentions had been mostly innocent when he’d first suggested this getaway but now since the day before—he couldn’t wait to have her lips pressed against his once more, his hands taking in every inch of the body he’d still had memorized, 

“I think that sounds perfect for Sunday,” he commented softly as he watched her before stepping into the room, aching to reach out for her but not wanting to lose the unspoken challenge that had come up between them. “Whatever you’d like Naz…we can do a tour, and I can show you all my favourite spots here and outside…or we can retire to the bedroom for a little fun?” He commented with a laugh before standing over her, not quite touching her yet. “But you mentioned being hungry…didn’t you? Should I show you the kitchen or will something else satisfy your hunger?”

"You're just too sweet K, but I couldn't let you do that. What if you hurt your back?" she retorted, raising an eyebrow before giggling. That man had an answer for everything and it was probably yet another favourite thing about him. He was perfect in her eyes and had been since she met him all those years ago. How life set us apart and together like those waves that crash upon the shore, she mused thoughtfully. Nazneen wasn't one for such profound thoughts but she couldn't help the distinction.

Letting Kunal's voice wash over her as she continued her mini tour of the bedroom suite, she almost lost her footing as he towered over her, and quite literally found herself in his arms. She shook her head with a little laugh, silently berating herself for not paying attention to his footsteps. Once upon a time she had been attuned to his entire being and now... well, she had found herself in a little conundrum.

If she stepped away now, it would ruin the little banter they had currently... but if she stayed, whatever patience she had left would be gone and didn't she want him to fold for once? For the moment however, she chose to stay where she was and responded very carefully, lest she do something that would cause her advantage to become moot.

"So many decisions K... I mean, a tour would be fabulous, but then I have the whole weekend for that. Eating something made by that personal chef of yours would also be a delight but I don't think I'm that hungry. I could retire for a little while, what do you think?" Her voice dropped slightly as she tilted her head up towards his, her lips centimetres away from his, knowing that this little game was steadily becoming more dangerous and enjoyed every second of it.

At this point though, she knew she was on the verge of folding and so be it. Kunal knew which buttons to press, which nerves to set on fire. Her lips found his, but instead of letting him take over, she pressed her lips to the corner of his and stepped back out of his arms. "I don't think hunger is quite the right word K. But I never could deny myself a taste of you..." Her words trailed off into a whisper as she pressed her body against his, meaningfully but briefly as she stepped back to the entrance of the dressing room.

He watched as she came closer to him and it made him wonder for a second if this was some ploy from her side but luckily for him—that didn’t happen at all and instead he was left watching her grab her bag even though she didn’t have any need to. “I can help you Naz,” he retorted before shaking his head and held out his own bag showing her his free hand. “I know it’s shocking but I have another hand which I could have used for your bag too, isn’t that amazing?” Still he led them both inside and watched her take in their home for the next couple of days and nights. 

Kunal knew that as it was a new place, she must’ve had some thoughts and opinions on the place the way she did about everything—but she hadn’t said anything yet which surprised him. But what she did next had him starting at her with his mouth wide open. “I’m sorry Miss. Malik, did I hear you correctly? You’re going to maybe steal a fry or two one day? Or have some of the heaven-like milkshake? who are you and what have you done with my Naz?” He just couldn’t help the words that slipped out of his mouth especially when she was saying such things that didn’t sound at all like her. 

The way she looked up at him, he felt it in her gaze even with his sunglasses as a barrier between the two of them right now. It was causing a small smirk to grow on his lips because really…how could he not have expected this? The two of them together was always a bit of a explosion just waiting to happen. But right now he found himself looking back at her and shaking his head slowly. “So—I should show you to the bedroom now huh?” He very purposely didn’t say ‘her’ room but if she genuinely wanted one that was different than his—he had one all prepped and ready to go for her. It was truly whatever she wanted. 

Walking inside the bungalow had Nazneen almost stopping in awe. It was beautiful and definitely the type of place she had envisioned for herself a long time ago... with a husband, children, lots of parties and good times - being the hostess with the 'mostest'. The twenty-two year old Nazneen would have scoffed at her right now, complaining that she was an old spinster who couldn't land a single man. Biting her lip to avoid continuing that train of thought, she continued following Kunal until she saw his mouth drop open in shock. She couldn't help the laugh that escaped and quickly covered her mouth. "I don't know about your Naz, but this Naz is finally going to let you have your way with those fast food joints you like so much." It was way too much fun watching him as he processed her words and the grin on her face was wide enough to match the sunshine outside.

"That would be nice K. I should know where I'll be sleeping... although with the weather this beautiful, I wouldn't be surprised if I fall asleep by the pool," she answered, letting him lead her to an entrance with double doors already opened and the sunshine bathing the room with an incredible early evening glow. It was at that moment that she realised this wasn't her room, but theirs. She could have hit her head with her hand in a d'oh moment as she recalled his cryptic way of speaking, but refrained because she still didn't want him to have the upper hand.

Deciding to let things be as they were, she walked further into the bedroom, and peeked inside the ensuite, not at all surprised by how spacious it was. The sunken bathtub gave her ideas for Sunday which she hoped would work with him... and if not, well, then all the more space for her. Smiling at her wicked thought, she continued through to the walk-in robe which looked more like a dressing room. Ignoring one complete side of the aread, she looked over the few shirts and pants Kunal had, admiring how his clothing taste had evolved, but still favoured classic cuts. Nazneen recognised how much had changed between them, but also how much still remained the same. It was like picking up a book years later and seeing it through another perspective. She gently placed her overnight bag on a shelf and walked back to the bedroom, glad she had agreed to this weekend.

"Well K, you've outdone yourself. The place is fantastic, and I'm thinking the tub would be a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon. So, what's the plan now sir? A house tour or just relaxing? Because I'm up for both." While she could have thanked him in other ways, it was too early for her to give up. So this would be a better way to enjoy her time before he started trying to rile her up. Nazneen was not going to give in... no matter how much she wanted to. Even if he was serving himself up on a platter for her to enjoy. Oh you are a goner Naz.

When their home for the weekend came closer, he hadn’t missed the look in her eyes and had to give her a bright smile before nodding, “yes there’s a personal chef to make you whatever you want. As for me—stop it, he makes a decent burger but the aloo tikki you get at one of the nearby McDonald’s isn’t at all rivalled by his burger. And you know very well…I’ll never say no to a McDonald’s burger.” But the sound of her laugher was making his chest almost swell in happiness. He knew the happiness that she was experiencing was partially because of him but it was enough. He had been apart from her for so long that it blew his mind to know he could still make her smile this way. 

He parked the car in the long driveway quickly enough, not missing the way she spoke to him because that had him raising a brow, wondering just how long it would be before the two of them were on top of one another. He had no problems with it of course, but he was quite intrigued if he was honest with himself. Naz was sometimes insatiable and he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t expecting much of the same during this weekend. He was about to head to her door but she’d quickly opened her door and so he couldn’t even tear his eyes away to step out himself as he watched her brush her hair back, the straps of her camisole ridiculously loose suddenly. “You know what happens when you tease me Naz,” he murmured before he heard the door shut and quickly opened his own to get out and grab the keys. But he didn’t go to open the door yet, choosing instead to grab their luggage before he did anything. 

With that in mind, the shorter woman decided to grab her bag from him, not wanting to make him feel like he was only there to do her bidding. "Thank you for taking my bag out K, but yours looks heavier, save your strength for that maybe?" she teased with a wink as she held her bag, grateful for her organisational skills once more as she felt that the items had not moved around at all. Not that there was all that much in there besides her multiple swimsuits and some lounge wear.

Gracefully slipping her sunglasses on top of her head, she turned back towards Kunal as she waited for him to lead her inside. Although she could have easily been a brat as she was once, things had changed considerably between them. Nazneen would rather settle for being a tease who couldn't help annoying him about his junk food habits. She was well aware she was pushing her boundaries, so settled for a conciliatory smile about eating McDonald's. "I'll have to take your word for how good the food is at McD's, maybe one day I might steal a fry or two... or a sip of the chocolate milkshake. Is that still your favourite there?" She was sure that she was going to worry him by actually agreeing to eat that stuff, but if it kept her patience from waning, then she was happy to continue this line of conversation.

“Yaad toh hai woh sab…honestly Naz, there’s not a single thing that I’ve suddenly forgotten from our past together,” he told her hoping she understand the hidden undertone of his words. Everything about her was 100% special and despite their time apart, he didn’t forget any of it. He began driving once more, needing to get them both on their way before he inched closer and took hold of her hand while he drove, keeping it on the gear shift with his own as he pressed a little bit faster on the gas pedal.

“I know, I’m pretty outstanding,” Kunal chuckled before pausing and glancing back in her direction. “I can almost vaguely remember someone in high school telling me that I should try to be a race car driver. She was incredibly gorgeous, any idea though..who she was?” Of course it was someone from the Malik family and while he would’ve gone along with that dream which was almost his own, he didn’t think he was good enough to complete professionally. Not to mention—his life would’ve taken a drastic 180 degree turn if he’d actually pursued it. 

“We’re both lucky that I’m not hungry,” he told her with a laugh before glancing back her way and smiling, “otherwise you and I both know that this trip would’ve had a few detours at least.” And really…at this point Kunal was hungry but for something else. Something Naz clearly knew with the way she stretched her arms, allowing him to see that exposed midriff that made him want to stop the car and drag her to the backseat. But he wouldn’t do it. Not when they were only about seven minutes from the bungalow that was still in Sheena’s name. “So it’s coming right over that hill…do you see it? It’s the house with the bricks and well—given it’s seclusion, we both should have nothing to worry about in terms of privacy. At least…he hoped not.

She laughed when he brought up her constant hyping of his driving skills. "I wonder who would praise you that much K... I mean, it's not like anything came of it," she added with a small smirk. Although she enjoyed his capable manoeuvring of his SUV, there was nothing like watching him in court or even meetings with other legal counsel. "Besides, whomever that gorgeous girl was, this pretty young thing definitely prefers the attorney you've become."

It wasn't until she started noticing bigger properties along the road that she realised they must be getting closer. Her excitement grew as took it all in. "Probably best... you did say something about a personal chef. I'm sure his skilled hands would make you a better burger than some of the junk I used to watch you put away like you were a bodybuilder," she sniffed, before breaking out into light chuckles. Who knew that just the idea of relaxing with her favourite person would lighten her mood, her demeanour so quickly?

As Kunal continued the descent towards his palatial bungalow, Nazneen stared out of the window in awe. If this was going to be their weekend retreat, she was going to make sure she made the absolute most of it. It was precisely at that moment that her hunger became insatiable and she was suddenly very aware of the man still seated besides her as he guided the SUV into park right outside the main doors. "I'm liking this place already K... let's get our bags and enter?" Her voice dropped a couple of octaves letting him know exactly what she really wanted to do... him.

Except, she wasn't going to let him at her that quickly. Opening her door, she gracefully stepped out of the car and brushed her hair back off her shoulder while tugging on one of the straps of her silk camisole, knowing very well she was playing a dangerous game. "What are you waiting for? Christmas?" she sassed with a teasing laugh as closed the car door shut on him.

Puling over the car at that moment had been the right thing to do and so as he held onto her hand and said what he needed to say—he was so thankful that she squeezed his hand gently, letting him know that she understood and wanted the same thing as he did. For him—every joy he’d experienced in life could be connected to her ultimately and while he knew as a married man he shouldn’t be able to say that—it was true. 

“Of course I wanted you to join me so that we both could let go of whatever is…essentially holding us back and just be together. But I promise, I didn’t have some ulterior motives for the weekend getaway; when I first suggested the idea to you—it truly had been just for both of us to relax.” But then things began happening between them, things that he’d never be upset about so of course he wanted this weekend to be more about them now. “Good—I’m glad and—“ yes of course we can start again. Those had been the words he’d wanted to say but her kiss had effectively stopped him and his train of thought. Instead he was smiling at her and feeling the way she cupped his cheek. 

Except the words she said had him chuckling very quickly before he shook his head and gave her nose a quick little kiss before he knocked his forehead gently against hers. “No of course not—this delayed us a bit,” he smiled before releasing his hold on her and gesturing for her to go ahead to her side of the car, “I promise it’ll be worth it. The bungalow is absolutely beautiful and you are going to love it.” He had already told her it was Sheena’s but given how his wife didn’t care when he went there and with who—he wasn’t about to remind her again.

"Anywhere where you are already makes it worth it K. Yaad hai? When I was stuck in Delhi and you decided to fly up just to spend the day with me. Purely because you knew I'd be bored by myself." The young woman grinned as she remembered how they'd almost missed their flight back and only made it with mere minutes to spare. It truly summed up their relationship... back then at least. Neither of them backed down when it came to the other's happiness, and it had made for some wonderful memories. She wondered if Kunal felt similarly but decided not to broach it for now. Just watching him drive was enough.

Looking outside the window a little while later, she smiled widely when she realised they were definitely far away from her apartment. She had not been to Alibaug since her friend's wedding a few years ago, so seeing some familiar sights was a positive. "Your driving is the only way you and I have made it here so quickly... and you didn't even stop for a burger. How sweet of you K!" Nazneen chuckled lightly, not in the least concerned that he might now stop on purpose. They were here to enjoy themselves, so why not live a little?

With that in mind, she decided to stretch her arms, not bothering to pull down the cropped cami as it showed a hint of her skin. It wasn't as though the driver was paying attention...

Samara: Always. You never have to worry about my being on your side okay? It's always going to be like that.

Samara: He's gorgeous and he knows what he's doing in the bedroom, that's for sure. I guess...I would just feel bad, and almost unfaithful if I did that. But I am going to bring it up with Jai, just so I know what his thoughts on the whole thing are...

Samara: No don't be sorry, I just meant because well---if I ever see this person, I'm going to know how good they are in bed and it's just...I don't think you wanted my non-judgmental self for that part, right? 😂

Nazneen: So cute, I could pinch your cheeks. I'll settle for picking up the bill when we meet next; so don't even try to argue.

Nazneen: Unfaithful? Sam, you're a single woman in your personal life. Enjoy that delicious specimen... I have every belief that Jai will encourage it as well, in his own way.

Nazneen: Please... I'll take every part of you Sam. I'm sure you'll end up meeting him at some point too. Then judge away and tell me that I'm in over my head.

Nazneen: Thank you gorgeous. I'll keep that in mind. Also I best get back to doing some work. I'll talk to you soon babe - and can't wait for our lunch! ❤️

Samara: Okay perfect, that would be a good fit for me, especially if the right people notice this whole link up with Jai.

Samara: Oh god, I'm sure he does. Somehow I think he gets mobbed everywhere, right? Poor guy. But yes okay I'll keep my mouth shut about it so that he doesn't know that I know who you are and how you're related.

Samara: I mean...that's good..we do always need some good action in our lives. I was in a...'fuck me when we're together' relationship with that model...Nitish but I guess we'll have to call it off when he's back in Mumbai. Can't risk it.

Samara: I wish I knew the best way to guide you, just...be safe with your heart please. Otherwise I'll have to find people to beat him up because you deserve someone who is all in with you.

Nazneen: Thanks Sam, I'm glad I have you on my side!

Nazneen: Nitish? Ooooh, he's a catch. There's nothing stopping you from the FWB world, you'll just have to be very discreet about it. Just keep Jai in the loop so he's not taken by surprise if he meets this guy.

Nazneen: ...what have I done to deserve this? Thank you my gorgeous girl! I'll try to be safe but with him... I was hooked when I was 16, it's been 14 years. I really never sought out anyone else and never wanted to either. Let's just hope this doesn't blow up in my face.

The truth was that Kunal knew what he’d done was seen as wrong in the normal person’s view but what those people wouldn’t understand was that what he felt for Naz—no one would understand. It was why he didn’t feel as guilty as he perhaps should feel. For now he just wanted to spend his time focusing on the woman in front of him because she was everything for him and that was all there was to say about it. Nazneen Malik had very easily snuck into his life when they first met and she’d stayed there despite him thinking he’d moved on…when in reality, she'd always been there, but the feelings had remained dormant until now.

The question about why Kunal needed a break did take him by surprise and while he had never really kept any secrets from her—this wasn’t something he felt comfortable telling her. Not when it was about his existing relationship that she wouldn’t want to know anything about. Still he was thankful that she was doing the best she could by keeping the mood light and just heading into another topic. The problem was that for so long now—Kunal had only had to think about himself, that it was hard to focus on someone else and their feelings but it was something he’d focus on and change about himself hopefully. 

“Of course you are Naz, that doesn’t change,” he felt her hand over his—the way her fingers brushed over his hand was enough to make him weak and yet he couldn’t even tell her that—not yet. “I’m glad we made this plan too—it’s been a long time coming,” and he didn’t mean just the two of them spending time together but everything that came along with it. When she mentioned his junk food, he only gave her a grin because he knew somehow she’d wear down and allow him to eat his favourites—especially since they were going to be together all weekend. 

He heard her say his name and glanced up because he heard the tone of her voice and it was enough to make him wonder if everything was okay or not. But he heard her speak and it made him sigh softly. “I get that, I just—feel weird, or rather unsure of how to go about explaining what I’m thinking and feeling and why I need this break.” But he saw her hold her ears and chuckled before shaking his head, “you don’t need to do that, honestly…I get it,” he smiled back at her for a second before pulling over on the side and taking her hand before hitting the button for the four-way flasher to turn on. “I just want you to know that nothing is going to distract me from you—unless you need time alone, this weekend because I just want to focus on you..and on us. Is that, is that cool for you?”

She bit her lip when she realised he was stopping the car on the side of the road, regretting saying anything. He shouldn't have felt weird or unsure, and it broke her heart. Until of course he spoke again. This man was truly going to be the death of her and it would be absolutely beautiful. She squeezed his hand gently, wanting him to know how much she cared and how much she wanted this.

"Cool? K... that's all I want— it's all I've wanted since you told me to join you. I'm so sorry I created this silly tension... can we start again? Properly?" And without a hint of doubt, she pressed her lips to his as a hello. This was her K, the man who she had spent all her adult life loving and missing. When he was ready to tell her, he would... she trusted him and had no reason to think otherwise. It was her that had been projecting her insecurities for no reason at all. Or so she told herself.

She pulled back after a moment, and cupped his cheek, relishing the intensity between them. Although she knew the mood would change eventually, the bond between them was all-encompassing and that filled her heart up with emotions she had no name for. "Hey K? Are we there yet?" she giggled, shaking her head and scrunching her nose knowing how silly she was being. But this was the only way she could push forward and let the tension disappear, for his sake.

When he saw her turning herself so that she was facing him, a grin was on his lips—unable to stop given how much she wanted to focus on him and how he couldn’t even fault her for it. This was how they used to be so of course this was how they’d remain even now. The truth was that many things could change—but the one thing that would always remain the same would be how they behaved around one another. Not to mention—this was her doing something that unfortunately he hadn’t experienced after her. The woman he’d joined his name to…didn’t choose to do things like this. Instead she often just pulled out her phone during their drives and focused on that small piece of technology. 

“You’re staring,” he told her with a soft voice not missing how she’d been looking at him for a bit since she turned in her seat to look in his direction. It made him wonder what she was looking at and for the first time in their time of knowing one another—he felt almost…nervous to know the thoughts in her head right now. But before he could ask her again—she was pulling out the charging cable and connecting her phone before he could say anything. “No—I was just listening to the radio before I pulled up to your place.” He rolled his eyes at her words about podcasts and shook his head, “I’ll have you know—sometimes they’re rather informative, so don’t knock them until you’ve tried them.” But even as he said those words, he couldn’t imagine listening to a podcast when they were together like this. “And despite what you just said about them—I can almost bet that sometimes you listen to them as well. 

Kunal watched her get comfortable in the large seats, his hand acting to reach from the gear over to her legs but Kunal kept his hands firmly on the shift and didn’t move them—at least not yet but there was definitely a probable chance that as the drive continued, his hand ended up on her leg. But he listened softly to the music, recalling some of them to be tracks they’d listened to together back in College but he glanced back at her and noticed the look on her face that made him curious to know what was on her mind. He wanted to ask but he also wanted to be able to properly devote his attention to her when he asked her what was wrong and that wasn’t something he could do in that moment. 

Hearing her voice, he glanced in her direction for a moment before shaking his head. How was he supposed to tell her that this weekend had always been something he’d been planning for but inviting her had been a last minute addition? He didn’t want to feel pressured to talk about his home life even though that was the main catalyst that forced him to make this plan in the first place. “I needed it, just like you did so this worked out perfectly, don’t you think? But uh—mainly things at home are just—stressful that this trip was always planned for me, I just felt like…you might need a break as well and given how you’re my favourite person to spend time with, makes sense to have you come with me, right?”

She shook her head and laughed at his explanation about listening to podcasts but offered no denial about listening to them herself. It was after all Kunal who had introduced her to them back in college, and there wasn't a week where she wasn't catching up on her favourites while running errands or cleaning the apartment. A lot of her life seemed to revolve around Kunal's tastes and his way of approaching life. It wasn't something she had actively noticed, but with the man back in her life, she was rapidly connecting the dots between her life then and now.

Letting the soothing sounds of Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik fill the ambience, Nazneen turned back in her seat to grab her handbag and take a sip of her water. While she wasn't particularly parched, there was a sudden drop of tension after broaching why he needed a break. It shouldn't have been a serious question however it was as though Kunal was trying to hide something from her. Whether it was his emotions or his relationship, Nazneen realised she needed to steer the conversation back into calmer waters. Her own insecurities needed to take to the back and allow both of them a proper chance to relax.

"I'm still your favourite person? Aww, you're just so precious," she cooed, resting her hand on top of his, gently running her fingers along his skin; an unconscious smile and soft humming the only reaction to how her soul thrummed with excitement. "I'm glad we have this weekend, and I'll be nice about your junk food."

After a moment, she continued knowing that the remaining car ride would feel awkward for her. "...K? We don't have to talk about anything that makes you apprehensive or pressured. I'm sorry for bringing it up. In any case, I'm just glad that you are taking time for yourself and that I get to cash in on it as well," she added, holding her ears for forgiveness and turned her body back towards him, as comfortable as ever. What she wouldn't give to kiss him right now, to hold him the way he'd hold her whenever she was anxious or upset. Kunal deserved the best, and she silently reaffirmed her commitment towards him - no matter his secrets.

Samara: I thought it was a good touch, showing me that the higher ups are keeping track of their clients. But yes please I'd love to be able to get a meeting with DCA.

Samara: Not really but it's alright--you're allowed to be the way you are but I still can't believe I had no idea you two were related. He probably will...but I'm sure it'll be good fun.

Nazneen: A cheap tactic to keep their remaining clients on board; thankfully they're not in the black... yet. I've reached out to my contact and should hear back in the day or so. It'll be great for you to get representation who keep your interests at the forefront at all times.

Nazneen: I prefer keeping it in the dark; he tends to get mobbed whenever he's meeting with Kunal in the office. Besides, he's played enough pranks on me over the years, it's about time I get one over him.

Nazneen: To be fair, this is the most amount of action I've had in years. Since we broke up around nine, maybe ten years ago? He's still just as sweet and dangerous as he was then. I'm beyond hooked Sam, but it worries me. He's married, I'm not. What if he has his fun with me and then walks away?

Samara: I believe that, but it honestly really sucks for so many people.

Samara: Hahaha okay good because I do adore your brothers and would love to spend time with them without shooing them away.

Samara: Oh thank god, I would hate to make it seem as if we're trying to keep it hidden or something, especially when there's nothing to hide.

Samara: I think so, and yeah it's a bit of a mess right now, but they did call me in a few weeks ago to tell me that everything with my account remains unchanged. But I'm not...feeling great about it. Yes, how about DCA, I don't know if they'd want to represent me, but we can try?

Samara: Awww sorry? I believe that with the boys but I'm pretty okay about it, only sometimes indulging but yes please.

Nazneen: Alina bhabhi will send you the invite. Oh and it's a very laidback party, so don't feel like you need to dress up.

Nazneen: I'm surprised they called you directly - that should have been Tara's job to ensure your account was up-to-date. DCA is scouting for more models; let me get in touch with them and set-up a meeting in the next two weeks.

Nazneen: You are not sorry at all... but it's fine. I could stand to be a little less uptight about these things, and spend more time with my brother. I think he'll fall off his seat when I say let's have beer & biryani. Okay now I definitely should say that, it'll make my week complete.