Page 50 of Knot So Romantic

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.

CHAPTER 21

Kavita

There are only a few families staying at the resort tonight, and dinner is a lively affair with Arjun cracking wedding jokes.

“The most effective way to remember your wedding anniversary is to forget it once. You’ll never hear the end of it, and you’ll never forget it again!” he says.

“Like he does,” Kiara teases.

“Do you know the secret to a happy honeymoon?” he asks Dilip.

“No, bro.”

“It’s room service and remembering which remote control turns off the TV and which one turns off the lights.”

His jokes get laughs around the table. Neel and I are seated next to each other. He’s having soup. He gets up to get more food and returns with another bowl of soup.

“You like it that much?” I ask him.

“You should try it.” He nudges his bowl toward me. “Go on.”

I’m sharing his soup? I catch Kiara’s raised eyebrows across the table and smile.

“Neel, can I try some soup too, please?” Elena says from across the table, obviously teasing him.

“Get your own, Elena!” Neel responds.

“Okay, I guess your soup is only meant for the special company tonight.”

I blush, and Neel chuckles. “I agree.”

He’s not even denying it.

“Kavita, you’ve transformed my brother,” Elena teases. “He was always so grumpy at the dinner table.”