Chapter 14
Manisha arrived at Chai Time a few minutes early, deciding to hold off on going inside until it was time to meet Paul.
She wasn’t thrilled about the dates happening at Rohit’s workplace—something she’d definitely need to discuss with Deena later.
It was evident that he wasn’t particularly fond of her, and that was just fine.
She could manage the situation gracefully, given the circumstances.
She made the best of it, arranging to go over the legal paperwork with him at some point that afternoon.
And Manisha could admit that Deena was right; it was also a relief to be away from the prying eyes of any aunties or uncles.
As her cousin had reminded her, the gossip train was hot in Baskin for any single person.
Pulling up the email from Sunil, she read it one more time before considering how to respond. Finally, she crafted a quick reply:
Hey Sunil,
At Curry and Cupid, we’re women who take our food seriously.
It’s less about preferences and more about non-negotiables.
If you can’t appreciate a perfectly spiced curry or enjoy a lazy Sunday aloo paratha brunch with your match, well, we definitely got your order wrong and probably need to find you a new date.
Just know that as long as you’re into good food, you’ve found the right place and are already halfway to winning our hearts!
Admin
After sending the message, she checked the time. It was now or never; lingering outside in the sweltering sun would only leave her sweaty and frazzled before her date. She took a deep breath, steeling herself.
As she imagined sitting across from Paul, their laughter merging with the rich aroma of coffee, she pictured her dress straps slipping off her shoulders, adding a playful flirtation to their conversation.
She could almost hear her mother’s voice, proud that her flirting tips were being put to good use.
In her fantasy, Paul would gently push the straps back up her shoulders, letting his fingers linger just a moment longer on her arm. It would be a date she’d never forget. With one last tousle of her wavy hair, she stepped inside, hoping to spot Deena already settled in.
The café was bustling, and Manisha quickly caught sight of Rohit at a table in the back.
If he happened to notice her early arrival and wondered why she was there, she could effortlessly explain that she was meeting potential clients, just as Deena had advised.
Finding a quiet corner table, she texted Deena to let her know her location.
She casually checked her messages as she waited, noting that her date was running a bit late. Tapping her foot lightly, she scrolled through Instagram to pass the time.
“Thought you could use one of these, or do you prefer something stronger?” Rohit teased, setting a cup of tea on the table.
“Thanks,” Manisha replied, sounding reluctant, then fixed her gaze on him.
He stood there awkwardly for a moment.
“I said thanks,” she reiterated, her voice clipped. What was he still doing there?
“Right, sorry…So, uh, why are you all made up?” Rohit asked, flustered.
“Made up? Gosh, you sure have a way with words,” Manisha said, rolling her eyes. “I have a couple meetings with potential clients if you must know.”
Rohit squinted at her. “So, you’re back to work in Baskin?”
“Something like that.”
“Speaking of work,” he continued, “I guess you can walk me through the café papers when you’re done with your meetings. My dad wants an update.”
“Yeah,” Manisha said, flicking her hand in the air.
“How long do you think you’ll be?” Rohit asked.
“I don’t know,” she said irritably. She could really do without all the questions.
“You don’t know, like you have no idea?”
“I don’t know like I don’t know,” she snapped back. “Who are you, my personal timekeeper?”
His face soured, tone matching it. “I figured I’d ask to avoid either of us having to wait on the other. You’re doing my dad a favour, sure, but the world doesn’t revolve around you, Manisha. Some of us have our own things to do.”
It took everything in Manisha to not literally growl at him. What could this walking embodiment of rich and entitled possibly have to do?
But she was the picture of grace, biting her tongue.
Rohit threw his hands up in exasperation. “You know what, Manisha, fine. The sooner we wrap things up, the sooner we can avoid each other.”
“You can say that again.” Manisha took a sip of tea and shot him a glare.
“Say what again?” Deena interjected, approaching the table and interrupting their tense exchange.
“Nothing,” Manisha and Rohit chimed in unison.
Rohit let out a sigh. “I’m going to head back to the kitchen. I’ve suddenly developed a headache.” He cast a pointed glance at Manisha before turning to go.
“Funny, I have one, too. A migraine,” Manisha called after him.
“You have a migraine?” Deena asked, concern etched on her face.
“Yes! No. He’s just so irritating!”
“Why are you two always at each other’s throats like that?” Deena asked, exasperated. “Actually, forget it. Don’t worry about Rohit. Focus on your dates.”
“I can’t believe I still have to help him with that paperwork for his dad afterward!” Manisha groaned.
“Let’s prioritize your dates first,” Deena suggested softly. She looked at Manisha and grinned. You look incredible…‘looking like a total VOW!’ ” Deena did a lousy job of striking a pose reminiscent of the viral Indian auntie from TikTok and her fashionable flair.
Manisha couldn’t help but laugh, her earlier crankiness melting away. “You’re too much, Deena. I really appreciate you always having my back.”
“Of course! So, how are you feeling?”
“Honestly? I feel great! I’m excited, and you know what? I’ll try not to put too much pressure on myself.” She paused momentarily, then added with a twinkle in her eye, “Well, maybe just a pinch…but overall, I’m really optimistic.”
Deena’s smile grew even wider. “I’m feeling optimistic, too—especially since Paul is here!”
“Oh my god, he’s here!”
“Oh, and if he mentions Leena Auntie…”
“Leena, as in my grandma?” Manisha raised an eyebrow.
“I know, I know! But your grandma is definitely more glam-ma than mine! I found this old profile picture of her online from her teaching days at UCLA that was perfect for Curry and Cupid’s ‘matchmaking auntie,’ so I just popped it on to the site. Indian Grandmas don’t go online.”
“We haven’t talked to her in ages. But whatever will find me Prince Charming.”
“Alright, well he may be coming right up. Good luck! I’ll be hanging out over there in case you need me.” She gestured toward a quieter spot, giving Manisha a reassuring smile.
Manisha smiled as a man walked toward her, waving enthusiastically.
His tall frame was dressed casually yet stylishly, his dark jeans complementing a well-fitted navy shirt that accentuated his athletic build.
His hair fell in a way that looked effortlessly cool, and the warm smile he wore revealed straight white teeth, bringing out his dark brown irises.
“Manisha?” Paul inquired, his voice deep and confident.
“That’s me!” Manisha said, rising to greet him, her eyes flitting over his assured stance. “It’s great to meet you, Paul.”
Paul stepped in for a hug, catching Manisha off guard, but she welcomed it.
Be your authentic self, she heard Manny’s voice saying in her mind.
He then held out her seat, exhibiting a politeness that made her smile even wider.
“Wow, this place is amazing!” he exclaimed, glancing around at the vibrant decor.
“It’s been a beloved part of Baskin for many years. Did you grow up here, too?” Manisha asked curiously, noting the passion in his voice.
“You bet, but I moved to New York for my graduate studies, and now I’m back. I wanted to be closer to home. My sister and I are running a physiotherapy clinic together here,” he shared, his eyes lighting up as he spoke about his work.
“That’s wonderful,” Manisha said, genuinely impressed. “And I can relate—I’ve been living in London for the past few years, but I’m also ready to return home. But I opted out of running the family business with my brothers. I couldn’t work with both of them day in and day out.”
Paul stared at her, a spark of curiosity flickering in his eyes. “You know, you’re not exactly what I expected from a Baskin type of girl,” he remarked thoughtfully.
“What do you mean by that?” Manisha asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Well, you have really great style and confidence. It’s been a while since I’ve met someone I find physically attractive,” he explained, his expression sincere.
“Thank you, that’s nice. Um, I hope we share more than just physical attraction,” she said with a playful smile, her heart racing a little at his compliment.
As she took a moment to appreciate how handsome he was—especially with those irresistible dimples that appeared each time he smiled—Rohit interrupted their conversation with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for Paul. “Fresh coffee. Thought you could use it for your meeting?”
Manisha scowled, about to respond, but before she could, Deena, her friend, swooped in like a superhero.
“Rohit, can you assist me with the coffee I accidentally spilled on the table way over there? You know me, I’m just so clumsy.” Manisha could see right through Deena’s act.
“Sure, but I just want to make sure Manisha and her guest don’t need anything else,” he replied, still lingering.
“Rohit, come with me now! I actually need your help right now!” Deena insisted, grabbing Rohit’s arm and immediately pulling him away.
“Alright, now that’s some impressive service here!” Paul said, chuckling to himself. “They really anticipate your needs—unless you know him?”
“Him? No. Not really!” Manisha replied, eager to refocus their conversation. “I think he owns this place, but let’s get back to you. So, you enjoy travelling, you’re a fan of Sunday night football, and apparently, you can cook an amazing lasagna.”
“You read and remembered my bio. I love that about you.”