Next Morning at Manik's Office
Manik's morning routine at the office was like clockwork. He sat in front of his computer, eyes scanning security reports, a habitual ritual to ensure his company's safety. As he delved into the intricate details of the digital defenses, a flicker of movement on the CCTV caught his attention.
Manik: (whispering to himself) Cabir? Here?
A knot formed in his stomach. He wasn't prepared for the conversation he knew Cabir sought. With a swift decision, Manik dialed his secretary.
Manik: (on the phone) Tell Cabir I'm tied up in a crucial business meeting. I'll be back by evening.
The secretary relayed the message, and Manik exhaled a sigh of temporary relief. Dodging the impending confrontation, he immersed himself back into his work, his mind buzzing with thoughts of what was to come.
The office hummed with activity around him, but in Manik's world, it was a silent storm brewing, waiting for the inevitable clash of emotions and truths.
****
Afternoon at Manik's Office
Nandini stepped into the office, her mind already buzzing with the tasks awaiting her. As she settled into her work, a spark of inspiration led her to inquire about a particular novel she'd been eager to read. Approaching Manik's secretary, she posed her question with a hopeful smile.
Nandini: Is the novel "X" available in our library?
The secretary nodded affirmatively, prompting Nandini to make her way to the library, anticipation building with each step.
Meanwhile, in his cabin, Manik sifted through documents, realizing he needed one from the library. With his secretary on a lunch break, he dialed her number to confirm the document's location.
Manik: (on the phone) Is the document in the library? I need it urgently.
The confirmation came swiftly, propelling Manik to the library where a serendipitous encounter awaited him.
Inside the library, Nandini stood on a stool, reaching for her desired novel precariously placed on the top shelf. Just as her fingers brushed against its spine, the stool wobbled, threatening to send her tumbling.
Nandini: (startled) Oh no!
In a heartbeat, Manik entered the library, his quick reflexes catching Nandini just as she began to fall. Manik enters the library. With reflexes honed by years of quick decision-making, he lunges forward, his hand finding hers just as she starts to fall.
Time seems to slow down as their eyes meet in that fleeting but profound moment. Nandini feels a rush of gratitude and vulnerability wash over her. She sees concern mirrored in Manik's eyes, a depth of emotion that goes beyond mere courtesy.
Nandini: (breathless, looking up at Manik) Thank you... for catching me.
However, as Nandini tried to stand, a twist of her leg sent a jolt of pain through her. Manik swiftly scooped her up, gently placing her on a nearby sofa.
Manik: Let me see your leg.
Nandini: (hesitant) No, it will hurt.
Manik gently cupped Nandini's face.)
Manik: Trust me, it won't. Look into my eyes, Nandini.
Their eyes met, and Nandini felt a wave of comfort wash over her as Manik carefully tended to her injury, alleviating the pain.
Nandini: (smiling) Thank you, Manik.
Gratitude and relief flooded her, prompting a tight hug that Manik reciprocated with understanding.
YOU ARE READING
Crossroads of love: Enstranged or Adultery?
RomanceManik and Nandini found themselves in long, unhappy relationships. Manik had been married for 9 years and was in a 3-year relationship before that, which had grown distant over time. Nandini, in contrast, had an arranged marriage at 19, and she'd sp...
