CHAPTER 20 Kavita
Kavita
I’m surprised by Neel’s invitation and even more surprised that I said yes. It’s unexpected, but I’m excited about the chance to spend time with him away from our busy lives.
Nysara is a beautiful place in the hills. The air is crisp, reminding me of Ooty, though quieter and more secluded. The resort we’re here to check out is picturesque, nestled among rolling green hills with a low cloud cover.
I ride with Kiara and Arjun, arriving at a beautiful whitewashed building with brown pillars that oozes old-world charm. As I step out of the car and stretch, I breathe in the cool air, instantly falling in love with the place.
Kiara looks around and whistles. “I love it! It’s even better than the pictures.”
Arjun parks and joins us, pulling Kiara into a kiss. “So romantic,” he says.
“Stop it!” she laughs.
“What? You’re my wife now,” he chuckles.
While they’re teasing each other, I wander off to explore. There’s a small farm area with goats and pigs. One of the farm hands lets me pet a baby goat, and I’m holding it when Neel arrives.
He smiles as he approaches. “I see you’re already making friends. Is that a goat?”
“Sir, do you want to hold one too?” the farm hand asks, picking up another baby goat and handing it to Neel before he can refuse.
I laugh as I watch Neel struggle to hold the squirming goat. It’s clearly more mischievous than the calm one in my arms.
“I want the one you’re holding,” Neel says, eyeing my docile goat enviously.
I hand him my goat, and his face lights up as it snuggles against his chest.
We spend a few more minutes enjoying the gentle baby goat before reluctantly handing it back to the farm hand. As we walk away from the small farm area, I notice Elena and Dilip waving at us from near the main building.
“Looks like they want us to join them,” I say to Neel.
He nods, still smiling from our goat encounter. “Let’s go see what they’ve found.”
We make our way over to Elena and Dilip.
“When Neel said he wanted to invite someone along, I didn’t expect it to be you, Kavita!” Elena says. “But I’m really glad it is.”
Neel shakes his head, looking a bit embarrassed.
Elena turns to him. “I think my big brother is finally loosening up. He looks happier already,” she teases.
Neel tugs her ponytail, making her yelp, “No fair! You teased me so much when I told you I liked Dilip!”
I feel my cheeks warm as Neel turns to me. “Don’t believe a word she says.”
“Nothing at all?” I ask playfully.
“Well, maybe some things. Just don’t take everything she says too seriously.”
“Got it,” I reply, smiling.
Neel reaches for my hand, and I take it. My fingers intertwine with his, settling naturally into his large, gentle grip. Walking beside him feels both cozy and thrilling at the same time. We’re not quite lovers, but this new closeness is exciting.
Kiara and Arjun join in on the teasing, but I can’t stop smiling. This simple act of holding hands with Neel in front of everyone means so much to me.
Soon, Kiara leads us to the open area for Elena’s hen party. The sight takes my breath away. It’s a large green space on top of the hill, offering a stunning view of the valley below. Tall trees line the area, creating a sense of privacy.
The centerpiece is a large infinity pool. Its blue water seems to blend into the sky at the horizon. Around the pool are comfortable loungers and cabanas with colorful cushions and light curtains that move gently in the breeze.
To one side, there’s a stylish bar made of wood and stone that fits perfectly with the surroundings. It looks ready to serve cool drinks and snacks.
I notice a space being set up for music and dancing, with string lights hung between the trees. I can imagine how magical it would look at night.
But the most captivating part is the view beyond the pool—layers of hills stretching into the distance, partially veiled by a light mist. It’s nature at its most beautiful and serene.
“This is perfect,” I say, squeezing Neel’s hand as I take in the stunning scenery and elegant decor.
He returns the squeeze gently. “I agree. It’s a great blend of charm and luxury, perfect for Elena’s party.”
Elena hugs Dilip’s arm. “My friends will love it here. What do you think, dear?”
“Perfect,” he agrees.
Kiara adds, “It’s private, and we can book the whole resort. Plus, there’s plenty of space for the bar and dancing.”
“I love it so much. I think Dilip should have his bachelor party here, too,” Arjun suggests, making us all laugh.
“Why not?” Dilip nods.
Elena reminds us, “Okay, let’s explore some more. Remember, we came to check this place out for me.”
“Of course!” Kiara says. “Let’s check out the food now. I’m hungry. What about you guys?”
Suddenly, we’re all famished. The lunch spread is delicious, set up in open gazebos overlooking the valley. There’s a variety of finger foods, pizzas, and Indian dishes.
As we eat, Neel bites into a tomato. “Delicious!” he exclaims.
“Everything is grown on the farm,” our server says.
We spend the next hour talking, laughing, and sampling everything on the menu.
Kiara insists on trying every dish, not wanting to take any chances with the food for Elena’s party. Arjun eagerly joins in the tasting. Neel chuckles at their playful banter.
My best friend and her husband are perfect together. I couldn’t have imagined a better match for Kiara.
Arjun keeps us entertained with stories about how he and Kiara met. He tells us about a project where they had to pretend to be a couple to land an assignment. We all crack up as he describes how they once got locked in a barn and ended up rescuing a cat together.
Turning to Elena, I say, “What about you two? Any fun stories to share?”
Elena and Dilip exchange a glance before Dilip speaks up. “Well, there was this one time I got stuck in the ladies’ bathroom at her office,” he begins, grinning. “It was so late, I thought I’d be there until morning. Luckily, Elena was working overtime and heard me calling for help.”
“I’ll never forget the look on his face when I opened that door,” Elena adds, giggling.
After Elena and Dilip finish their story, Neel adds, “Speaking of workplace mishaps, I once accidentally sent an email meant for my sister to the entire company. It was about her birthday party plans that included an embarrassing childhood story.”
As we all laugh, Neel stands up. “Anyone need a refill?” he asks, gesturing to our drinks. Before I can answer, he’s already picking up my glass.
“Your glass is empty,” he murmurs, his voice low and meant for my ears only. His eyes meet mine with a warm smile.
As Neel walks to the drinks station, I can’t stop staring at him, admiring how his tailored shirt shows off his broad shoulders and how the sunlight catches the silver strands at his temples.
My eyes travel down his face, and I have a sudden urge to trace the strong line of his jaw and the sturdy curve of his neck with my fingers.
As he pours the drinks, I can’t help but stare at his elegant hands, imagining how they might feel against my skin.
When he returns, I’m still watching him. He places my drink in front of me, his fingers lightly brushing mine as he sets it down.
“Thank you,” I manage, my voice unexpectedly husky.
Our eyes meet as he sits back down, and I feel my heart skip a beat. His gaze locks onto mine, making me feel like I’m the only person in the room.
The stories continue, and bursts of Neel’s laughter fill the air once more. I find myself drawn to this version of him. He’s thoughtful, fun, and supportive—everything I’ve dreamed about and more. With each passing moment, I realize I’m growing fonder of him.
Though he hasn’t come right out and said he likes me, I understand his caution, given his past.
As I watch him enjoying himself, I hope I’m part of the reason he’s so happy.
What strikes me most is how comfortable he seems to have me here among his sister and my friends.
He’s included me in their conversations and inside jokes as if I’ve always been part of their circle.
I notice how he’s loosening up around me, his smiles coming more easily, his laughter more frequent.
It feels natural, being here with him, as if I’ve found a place where I belong.
And I can’t help but want to be a bigger part of it.