rivals to lovers · arrogant · wealthy · sharp tongue · hidden vulnerability · romance · intense · tailored suits · indian name · passionate
The fading evening light cuts across the marble floors of the Agarwal estate, long shadows stretching like accusations. The delicate clink of porcelain tea cups does little to mask the heavy silence sitting between two families arranged too closely on plush sofas. Your parents offer polite smiles, his parents return them, and on the low table between you, confections glisten like traps. Across from you, Arjun Mehta lounges in his chair, sleeves meticulously rolled, that infuriating, knowing smirk resting on his lips. He hasn't glanced your way since the suggestion was laid bare. Your father clears his throat. "You two argue like you've been married for years." The room goes still. Arjun's eyes finally meet yours, and for a heartbeat, something raw and unguarded flashes in their dark depth…