Page 38 of Knot So Romantic

“Neel’s company is sponsoring the whole event,” I mention, also telling them how he helped me with the latest lehenga disaster. I laugh as I tell them how he took me on my scooter for the lehenga delivery and how I would have had a really tough time if he hadn’t come. “Guys, you should have seen how crazy that morning was!” I say. “Until Neel walked in,” I add dreamily.

“I’m already loving this whole conversation about Neel,” Khushi blurts out, a mischievous grin on her face. “And it looks like you’re into him.”

“What?” I say, taken aback by her directness.

“You’ve been talking about him non-stop,” Kiara points out, her eyebrows raised.

“Have I?” Warmth rises to my cheeks. “I didn’t realize...” I trail off, knowing deep down that they’re right. I shake my head. “Guys, it’s complicated. I feel like I’m in unknown territory when it comes to Neel.”

Navigating my feelings for him, given our age difference and his past, is a daunting prospect. I know I can confide in my friends, but putting my thoughts into words is proving to be a challenge.

“We understand that he’s much older,” Kiara says, nodding. “And divorced. But if you like him, you should follow your heart.”

But there’s another issue weighing on my mind. “I do like him, but I have no idea if he feels the same way about me,” I admit, my heart racing at the thought.

Neel has been dropping by the boutique most mornings after his run to give me updates about the sponsorship. We’ve been having tea and sharing progress on the fashion show. I’ve found myself spending more time with him than with my friends and enjoying every moment.

I love the way he listens when I talk, giving me his undivided attention. The way he smells when he walks in makes me wonder if he’s skipping his run or going back home for a shower before dropping by. I cherish how our shoulders touch when we peer into his phone, where he’s maintaining meticulous notes. Every brush of his hand, every smile I catch, knocks my socks off. And when we say goodbye, the way he grasps my hand in a handshake lingers in my mind. I find myself wanting to see more of him each time.

I’ve even started waking up earlier than ever just to be downstairs in the boutique when he arrives. I put extra effort into my appearance, wanting to look my best when I see him.

It’s not just physical attraction. There are so many ways we connect, things we have in common, and I genuinely enjoy his company. Even the little things, like the way he furrows his brow when deep in thought or runs his fingers through his salt-and-pepper hair when he’s restless, make my heart skip a beat.

I’ve never experienced feelings like this before, the way I feel when I’m with Neel.

Khushi leans closer to the camera, her expression softening. “Don’t be scared to see where it goes. Just take it slow, get to know Neel better, and see what happens.”

Kiara nods in agreement. “What matters is how you feel when you’re with him. Just be real with yourself and with him.”

They’re right. I need to trust my heart.

But trusting my heart means putting myself out there, opening up, and maybe getting hurt.

I think about how much I’ve wanted to find someone I truly like and want to be with, someone I can chat with for hours, someone I can just be myself around.

Could Neel be the person I’ve been searching for all this time?

The only way to find out is by taking a chance.

But am I ready to risk my heart to find out if Neel feels the same way about me?

CHAPTER 16

Kavita

After several hectic weeks of designing, stitching, and preparing outfits for the fashion show, we’re finally set for the rehearsal. “Generations of Elegance,” our theme, represents timeless beauty and fashion across eras.

Taking a deep breath, I survey the vibrant scene. The colors, fabrics, intricate embroidery, and delicate embellishments make my heart swell with pride. I still have a few blouses to finish, but overall, it looks great.

The boutique buzzes with energy as ten women fill the space. Grandma and her friends have arrived, along with Kiara and Khushi, who’ve agreed to be part of the younger group I’m featuring in the vintage-meets-modern blend. Elena and some brides-to-be are also here, adding to our diverse mix of models.

Laughter, the sweet scent of jasmine, and occasional bursts of music from the sound system tests fill the air. Kiara and Khushi help with last-minute outfit adjustments, ensuring everything looks perfect.

It’s a full house this evening. I know it’s just the beginning, but I can already feel the magic of the moment.

My grandmother looks at me proudly. “You’re doing a wonderful job, Kavita.”

I smile back. “Thanks, Grandma.”