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Thursday, July 25, 2019

Night Adventures and Unexpected Twists(A lot can happen over a coffee : Chapter 4)



"Okay, then come over to my house," Karthik's invitation held a genuine warmth.

"You're kidding, aren't you?" Deepika's uncertainty tinged her words.

"No, I'm serious," 

"What kind of guy are you? We just met this morning, and it's a bit forward of you to ask something like this," Deepika's surprise was evident in her tone.

"Deepika, let's not react so strongly, and there's no need to overanalyze it," Karthik's interruption carried a soothing undertone, gently addressing the whirlwind of emotions in Deepika's mind.

Karthik's hands fumbled nervously, as he awaited Deepika's response. To his astonishment, Deepika's silence lingered before she abruptly ended the call. Doubts flooded his mind – had he inadvertently misspoken or caused offense? A short while later, Deepika stormed back into his view, a storm of anger on her face. One of her eyebrows arched challengingly, daring him to echo the words he had uttered before.

"Ma'am, just chill. My sole concern is to ensure your safety, that's all."

The moment he met Deepika, a profound realization struck him – he had found his soulmate. Every shared moment became a cherished treasure, affirming his belief that she was the perfect partner with whom he could wholeheartedly embrace life's highs and lows. Despite Deepika's marriage dilemma, he clung to unwavering optimism, confident that their journey would conclude with positivity. 

This certainty fueled his unhesitant invitation to his home; to him, it was a gesture of inviting his future wife. As she strolled, the trees' gentle rustled a cooling breeze that tenderly caressed her faces, leaving her refreshed.

"My friend, do not entertain those wild midnight. It's 11:55, not exactly the prime time for making life-altering decisions!" Karthik chimed in with a chuckle. "And trust me, the word 'yes' is not mandatory here."

"But if you're feeling a bit shaky about it, no worries at all. I can totally be your chauffeur to your friend's place," he added, playfully raising an eyebrow.

Feeling a wave of relief, Deepika's fingers gravitated towards her mobile, contemplating her friends' availability. She hesitated though, wary of the late hour and not wanting to stir up anyone's sleep. An alternative strategy formed in her mind – a quick check of their "Last Seen" status on WhatsApp. Her intention was to reach out only if their online status or "Last Seen" fell within the last 20 minutes.

Karthik understood her intention and secretly wished that her friends shouldn't be available. It turned out that his wish came true, thanks to a bit of luck.

"Alright then, if you really want me around, I can totally moonlight as a night security guard and camp out by your place," he teased, playfully pointing towards the road.

"Fair point," Deepika replied, her tone light. She paced back and forth, her steps leading her back to him. "Or...we could do something a bit more adventurous and spend the night together. Just throwing it out there."

Karthik raised an eyebrow, a mischievous grin breaking out. "Oh really? And how do you propose we do that?"

Deepika thought for a moment before revealing her master plan with a confident nod. "Well, I've heard whispers about this magical spot called Bistro Cafe on Mysore Road. It only comes alive in the dead of night, but it's supposedly safe, quiet, and perfect for some outdoor dining. What do you think?"

Karthik's smile widened. "An hour's drive for a midnight adventure? Count me in."

With that, the decision was made. They piled into the car, ready to embark on their escapade.

 ☕❤ ☕
Bistro Cafe, nestled on the outskirts of Bangalore as Deepika had mentioned, was situated over an hour's journey away from her home. While spending the entire night out wasn't the most practical notion, for Karthik, it stood as a preferable option when compared to leaving Deepika alone or at a friend's place. He harbored an unwavering commitment to her safety, deeming the lengthy drive worthwhile in exchange for extended moments in her company.

As they navigated the path to Bistro Cafe, Karthik couldn't resist stealing occasional glances at Deepika. Her hair swayed gently in the night breeze, her face bathed in the moon's ethereal glow. Lost in contemplation, he pondered the uncertain course of their shared journey. Would their paths converge, or would destiny pull them apart?

The sound of Deepika's voice brought him back to the present. "We've arrived!" she exclaimed.

Karthik parked the car, and together they ventured towards the cafe. Surprisingly vibrant for the late hour, the place buzzed with activity. They managed to secure a table tucked in a quiet nook, offering refuge from the bustling crowd. Their conversation meandered through their past adventure experiences, tales involving friends and family members.Words flowed naturally, and Karthik found himself captivated by Deepika's infectious zest and fervor.

A surge of contentment enveloped Karthik. She had carved herself a place as someone exceptional in his life, and he wasn't going to let her slip away without putting up a fight.

"What would you like to have?" Karthik inquired, his gaze fixed on the menu.

"I'm sorry, but I don't eat anything after 10 p.m. Snacking late at night can lead to health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and kidney failure....," Deepika responded

With a chuckle, Karthik interjected, a playful grin on his face, "Hold on, don't keep going with your scary list of horrors. It's just one night, we will survive." 

Deepika laughed, rolling her eyes in mock exasperation. "Alright, alright, I'll trust your judgement this time."

"Well, thank you, Ms. Cautious," Karthik quipped, his eyes sparkling mischievously.

As they bantered, the waitress arrived to take their orders. After some contemplation, Karthik decided, "I'll have the chicken pasta, please."

Deepika followed suit, "I'll go with the veg salad."

As the waitress left to place their orders, Karthik leaned back in his chair. "So, tell me, what's your favorite childhood memory?"

Deepika's face lit up. "Oh, that's a tough one. But I think it has to be the time spent with my family. Every Saturday night, we used to share stories and sleep under the stars."

"That sounds amazing," Karthik replied, genuinely interested."I've always wanted to try that. Let's continue after our marriage," Karthik suggested with a grin.

She gave him an earnest look, a reminder that their current status was that of friends and that marriage was a long journey ahead. 

"Well," she began thoughtfully, "If you're marrying someone like ABC, and I'm marrying someone like XYZ, we could all become one big family of friends. What do you think?" her tone a mix of dark comedy and playful sarcasm.

"Ah, yes! The ABCs and XYZs of our future family sitcom," Karthik quipped with a wink.

As their conversation flowed, the hours seemed to melt away, replaced by shared stories, laughter, and the promise of a connection that was growing stronger with every passing moment.

When they found themselves immersed in the night, cocooned within each other's presence. Suddenly, the serenity was broken by the sound of approaching footsteps. Karthik's head turned, and recognition painted his face – it was Naresh and his girlfriend Vidya, strolling towards them. 

Excitement and surprise swirled within Karthik as he swiftly rose from his seat, wearing a wide grin and extending a warm welcome to his friends. Greetings and playful taunts filled the air for the next couple of minutes, creating a spirited atmosphere that Deepika observed with interest. 

With a smile, Karthik introduced Deepika to his friends, while Deepika navigated through her momentary embarrassment to offer her greetings.

"Deepika, Oh... your secret's safe with us," Vidya teased, casting a knowing glance at Naresh. 

"Karthik, Deepika – Nice combination!" Naresh playfully teased, seamlessly joining in the lighthearted banter.

As the night unfolded, the quartet reveled in each other's company. Tales and laughter flowed, and a sense of ease enveloped Deepika in the presence of her newfound friends. Their warmth was a welcome embrace in the unfamiliar territory.

When the clock struck 4, and the cafe's closing time neared, Karthik excused himself, promising to settle the bill. However, it was Naresh who intervened, revealing that the tab had already been taken care of. He orchestrated a plan – Karthik would drop Vidya home while escorting Deepika back to her place.

As the night unfolded, the quartet reveled in each other's company. Tales and laughter flowed, and a sense of ease enveloped Deepika in the presence of her newfound friends. Their warmth was a welcome embrace in the unfamiliar territory.

When the clock struck 4, and the cafe's closing time neared, Karthik excused himself, promising to settle the bill. However, it was Naresh who intervened, revealing that it had already been taken care of. He orchestrated a plan – Karthik would drop Vidya home while escorting Deepika back to her place.

Naresh couldn't help but sport a grin as he observed the surprise on Karthik's face. After a brief pause that hung with a touch of awkwardness, Naresh broke the silence, his voice laden with amusement, "You both came in a car, right?" Naresh grinned mischievously. "Take Vidya with you and drop her at her place"

Vidya giggled, catching onto the banter. "Well, it's a brilliant plan."

Karthik's eyebrows shot up in surprise, and he exchanged a quick glance with Naresh. "Wait, what?"

"Don't worry, guys. I was just joking," Naresh chuckled, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "We don't want to ruin your date. I'll drop Vidya off, and you two can enjoy the rest of the night... sorry, morning."

Vidya added, "You two can keep each other company on the way back."

Karthik laughed, shaking his head. "Oh come on, Naresh. You're not ruining anything. We're just hanging out."

Deepika chimed in, playfully adding, "Yeah, and besides, we're all friends here, right?"

Vidya joined in the teasing, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, just friends? Karthik, you didn't mention that part."

Karthik's cheeks reddened slightly, and he shot a mock glare at Vidya. "Alright, alright, friendly hangout buddies, then."

The group shared a hearty laugh. Deepika was taken aback by Naresh's use of the word "date," but she decided not to make a big deal out of it. Naresh hugged Karthik, wishing him all the happiness in the world. 

Once Naresh and Vidya left, Deepika and Karthik walked to the car. Karthik whispered, "I'm sorry about all the teasing. They're just happy for us."

Deepika looked at him with a smile. "No need to apologize. It's all in good fun."

As they settled into the car, Karthik pondered for a moment before asking, "So, what's the next move?"

"I think my keys might be at the office," Deepika said, her voice pondering. "I usually go to my yoga class at 5:30 AM, so you can drop me off there and then I can take a cab to the office once my class is over."

Karthik raised an eyebrow, his expression a mix of disbelief and amusement. "Yoga? At 5:30 AM after a night out?"

Deepika gave a determined nod, a playful glint in her eyes. "Yep, I'm all about that healthy lifestyle. Don't worry, I've got this. And the key situation? I'll handle it."

Karthik let out an exasperated sigh, shaking his head in mock surrender. "Alright, you're the boss. But what if the keys are nowhere to be found?"

A confident grin played on Deepika's lips. "Oh, I will pull out my detective skills. No key can escape me."

Karthik chuckled, clearly charmed by her spirit. "Well, Ms. detective Deepika, I wish you luck."

As they continued driving, Deepika suddenly broke into a smile. "You know, I never thought my night would end up like this."

Karthik smirked, teasingly replying, "Life's full of surprises, isn't it?"

Deepika gave him a playful shove, "Oh, stop being all philosophical."

Karthik laughed heartily, "Alright, alright. I'll stick to being your driver."

Deepika's laughter joined his, filling the car with a light-hearted energy that seemed to encapsulate the entire night.

 ☕❤ ☕

Entering the yoga studio, Deepika could sense the positive aura enveloping her. Despite the fatigue, she was glad she had chosen this path. The yoga class infused her with revitalizing energy. As she checked her phone afterward, a message from Karthik illuminated the screen.

**Karthik:** Thanks for your time  I had a great time; it's one of the best ones.😊

**Deepika:** I'm really glad to hear that! I had a fantastic time too..😊

With renewed enthusiasm, she booked a cab and headed to the office to retrieve her keys. Walking into the familiar surroundings, her keys were exactly where she had hoped – resting on her desk. A smile danced on her lips, a fitting ending to the night's escapade.

Driving back home, the quietude of the night allowed her thoughts to drift toward Karthik. Their unexpected connection surprised her, yet she couldn't deny the enjoyment she had experienced in his company. Perhaps, just perhaps, this was the beginning of something unique, something worth exploring.

At home, as she prepared to retire for the night, her phone emitted a soft chime. Karthik's message brightened the screen.

**Karthik:** Can't wait to see you again. Miss you... Take care. 😊

**Deepika:** Aww, that's sweet! Miss you too. Have a great day!

**Karthik:** You too! Take care and have an amazing day ahead.

**Deepika:** Thanks, Karthik! Catch up soon!

**Karthik:** Definitely! Counting down already. 😄

**Deepika:** Haha, same here! Bye for now!

With a content heart, she closed her eyes, reflecting on the wonderful connection she shared with Karthik. Their conversations were always a highlight of her day, and the thought of him brought a smile to her face. She cherished the anticipation of their next meeting, the chance to dive deeper into their growing bond.

As she lay in bed, her thoughts drifted between the memories they had already created and the possibilities that lay ahead. She imagined their laughter echoing through cozy coffee shops, their hands intertwined on leisurely strolls, and the countless conversations that would weave the fabric of their unique story.

In the midst of these daydreams, a sense of gratitude enveloped her. She was thankful for Karthik's presence in her life, for the way he had shown her new perspectives and shared his own. She felt a warmth deep within her, an acknowledgment that love was indeed taking root in her heart.

However, as the night deepened and silence settled in, a restlessness stirred within her. She recognized that her feelings for Karthik were evolving beyond friendship, and that realization unnerved her.

Her attempts to calm her racing thoughts with a book or a cup of tea proved futile. The more she tried to suppress her emotions, the more they surged to the surface. It was as if her heart had taken on a life of its own, beating in rhythm with the unspoken words that hung in the air between her and Karthik.

In a decisive moment, she reached for her journal and pen. With each stroke of ink on paper, her emotions found a voice. She allowed herself to express the myriad of feelings that had blossomed within her—joy, uncertainty, hope, and the undeniable pull of attraction. As the words flowed, she realized that her emotions were a testament to the depth of their connection.

As the final sentences formed on the pages of her journal, a sense of clarity washed over her. She had acknowledged her feelings for Karthik, embracing the beauty of their unfolding love story. And while the future remained uncertain, she was determined to embrace each moment, allowing their relationship to evolve naturally.

With a serene smile, she closed her journal and set it aside. The restlessness that had kept her awake had transformed into a sense of peace, a tranquil acceptance of the emotions that had taken root in her heart. As she closed her eyes, she felt a comforting certainty that whatever lay ahead, her love for Karthik would continue to grow, intertwining their lives in unexpected and beautiful ways.

Click here to Read the Next Chapter


Thursday, July 18, 2019

Raindrops of Romance : (A lot can happen over a coffee : Chapter 3)


Raindrops of Romance 

 (A lot can happen over a coffee : Chapter 3)


"It's incredible how we can fall deeply in love with someone in such a short span of time. The strength of a connection isn't always measured by time; it can even flourish in the blink of an eye."

At Deepika's Office...

With each ticking second, Deepika's anxiety grew. The mix of nerves and confusion made her wonder whether she might have already developed feelings for Karthik. In an effort to manage her time effectively, she decided to leave the office ahead of schedule, so she could visit the salon and get her facial done. All of this was in preparation for her first dinner date.

As the clock struck 5 in the evening, Deepika approached Jahnavi, her colleague and trusted friend. With a composed demeanor, she addressed Jahnavi, "I've sent you my status report. Could you kindly gather the status reports from the other team members and submit it to the onsite leadership? I wrapping up for the day."

Jahnavi acknowledged Deepika's request. As Deepika headed for the exit, Jahnavi couldn't resist inquiring with a touch of playful jest, "What's cooking? The punctual one who never leaves the office before time is showing up late and bailing out early today. Something's fishy."

"I've got a few pending banking work from earlier today," Deepika retorted, with an urgency coloring her tone.

Jahnavi quirked an eyebrow, a skeptical grin playing on her lips. "Which bank stays open past 5? I'm not buying that excuse."

Rolling her eyes at Jahnavi's skepticism, Deepika defended herself. "I'm dead serious, Jahnavi! I have a dinner date tonight. His name is Karthik," she admitted, her voice softer now.

Jahnavi swiveled in her chair, studying Deepika intently. "Hold up, really? Who's this Karthik guy?"

"He's the one my parents found for me. If all goes well, we might be heading towards marriage. But I want to know him better first," Deepika clarified.

Jahnavi's raised eyebrows spoke volumes of her surprise. "Well, I'll be damned. I never thought I'd see the day. So, what's your take on him?"

Deepika hesitated for a moment, her expression thoughtful. "Honestly, I'm not sure. We've only had a few phone conversations. But I guess I'm open to giving it a shot. That's why we're meeting again for a dinner date"

Jahnavi found it hard to swallow Deepika's sudden interest in romance.

"Nice try, I can't believe you're actually going on a date, hence I'll stick with your bank excuse," Jahnavi quipped, returning to her work. 

Deepika rolled her eyes playfully, "Believe it or not, Jahnavi! I'm heading to the dating and romance arena."

Deepika couldn't help but laugh at the humorous disbelief in her friend's expression.

 ☕ ☕
                                     
While riding her scooter back home, an unexpected encounter awaited Deepika. As she navigated the streets, her heart skipped a beat when she spotted Karthik's car parked on the side. For a moment, she contemplated whether to halt and strike up a conversation with him. But her curiosity overcame her hesitation, and she steered her scooter towards his parked vehicle. As Karthik stepped out of his car, a warm smile graced his face.

"What a coincidence! You were on my mind," he exclaimed. A blush tinged Deepika's cheeks as she struggled to conceal her bubbling excitement.

Deepika's shy smile persisted as he approched her, "Aren't you supposed to be at the office until 8:00?" Karthik asked, a wide grin on his face. 

Deepika observed him closely before replying, "Well, I could ask you the same thing, couldn't I?"

A smile forming on his lips. "You know what they say, Deepika, smart people finish work early and leave early."

Deepika raised an eyebrow and retorted, "Oh ho, is that so?"

"Hey, hold on a second. Did you leave the office for a secret mission?" Karthik's eyebrow quirked up, his curiosity evident.

Deepika couldn't resist a mischievous grin. "Absolutely! I'm on a mission to find ways to Avoid Marriage Proposals."

Karthik burst into laughter. "Well, I'm on a mission to win those proposals and make them fall head over heels in love."

Suddenly, a clap of thunder erupted from the sky, abruptly interrupting their conversation and signaling the forthcoming rain

All of a sudden, it dawned on Deepika, and she inquired, "Hey, wait. Are you telling me that I left early to get ready for a dinner date tonight?"

"Well, it might sound crazy, but hey, that's the reality."

"Oh, I bet! You left early for the very same reason," she questioned him.

Karthik winked, "You caught me," 

"And of course! I needed that extra time to ensure I could leave a lasting impression on my.....par..t.ner, ...well, you know," he wanted to say, but smiled instead.

Just then, another resounding clap of thunder echoed through the air, emphasizing the moment.

With a graceful smile, she shifted the topic, "Isn't the weather beautiful today?"

Karthik's eyes sparkled with playful concurrence. "Indeed, let's seize the moment and relish a cup of nice, hot tea."

Deepika's lips curved into a smile, her response to Karthik's question accompanied by a nod of agreement. In the following moment, they found themselves at a modest roadside tea stall, the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea filling the air as they placed their orders. 

However, just as they settled in, the heavens opened up, sending rain cascading down. The rhythmic patter of raindrops on the shop's shutter above created a serene melody. Amused glances were exchanged as they realized the absence of suitable shelter nearby. 

Standing side by side, shoulders brushing against each other, they felt an inexplicable connection, a sensation that transcended words. She couldn't help but wonder if there was a larger force at play, guiding their encounter, their shared laughter, and even the unexpected rainfall. It was as though the universe's hand had united them amid the rain, fostering moment of togetherness. 

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, reminiscent of long-time lovers who had shared years of stories and secrets. To any bystander, it would be difficult to fathom that they had only met that very morning.

As the rain eventually abated, darkness descended upon the streets. The timing was perfect for dinner, and the spontaneous decision was made to head straight to a restaurant, leaving Deepika's scooter parked at her apartment.

As they embarked on their journey to the dinner destination, a sense of anticipation mingled with the cool evening breeze, carrying with it the promise of more delightful moments to come.


 ☕ ☕

Empire Restaurant:
The dinner table gleamed under the warm chandelier light, adorned with fine china and crystal glassware. 

Seated across from one another, their gazes locked in an unspoken exchange, they found themselves interrupted by the approach of a waiter. Standing poised with an iPad in hand, he awaited their dining choices. 

"One Chicken Biryani" , Karthik said, flashing a friendly smile at the waiter. He then turned towards Deepika and asked, "And for you, Deepika?"

Curious about her options, Deepika inquired, "Could you suggest some light vegetarian options?" 

She looked up at the waiter, who patiently listed a few choices. After a moment of consideration, she decided, "I'll go with a Plain Dosa."

As the waiter noted down her order, Karthik's mind couldn't help but comment, *One of the most unexciting dishes ever.*

The waiter turned his attention to Karthik, holding his iPad ready, and asked, "Would you like to add anything else, sir?"

"Oh, and one large whiskey, neat," he replied with a casual tone.

Deepika's eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting that choice. "What?" she exclaimed, caught off guard by the unexpected request.

Karthik burst into laughter, his friendly chuckle filling the air. "Haha, don't worry, Deepika. I'm just pulling your leg," he reassured her with a happy twinkle in his eyes.

After the waiter left with their orders, a comfortable silence settled between them. Soon enough, Karthik's Chicken Biryani arrived, and he immediately dug in without waiting for Deepika.

Observing Karthik's hearty enjoyment of his meal, Deepika's inner frustration grew. She watched as he delved into the Chicken Biryani, seemingly unaware of her pending order of the Plain Dosa. His lack of consideration for her feelings struck a chord, leaving her both baffled and annoyed. "Oh man, this guy is totally clueless," she couldn't help but mutter under her breath, her head shaking in disbelief. Despite her irritation, however, the aroma of the food wafting around the table managed to stir her own appetite.

As if sensing her thoughts, he glanced up and said between bites, "Hey, never mind. I'm actually really hungry." Completely clueless about the tension brewing within Deepika, he continued to eat with gusto. 

Deepika found herself wondering if he had a radar for social cues or if he was simply too absorbed in his own world. She entertained the fleeting notion of him possessing mind-reading abilities, although she quickly dismissed the idea with a faint smile. Despite her frustration at his lack of thoughtfulness, there was something endearing about his candidness.

As she observed him, she began to see a different perspective. Karthik, was simply being himself without any pretense. There was a certain authenticity in his behavior, even if it meant being less than suave. It was a quality she hadn't encountered often, and she couldn't help but acknowledge its merits, especially when considering the foundation of a genuine, long-lasting relationship.

As their meal progressed and the conversation picked up its pace, the waiter returned with the bill. Without any grand gestures or attempts at impressing, Karthik smoothly took care of the payment, a small action that showcased a different side of him beyond his initial unromantic facade.

After relishing a delectable dinner, they lingered at the entrance, patiently awaiting the valet parking attendant to retrieve their vehicle. For Karthik, a tinge of reluctance swept over him; he was not quite ready for the evening to conclude. The desire to prolong their time together had him yearning for a little more. As the moment hung in the air, he mustered the courage to suggest a leisurely walk. The mere thought brought a soft glow to Deepika's face, an unspoken affirmation of her eagerness to join him in the idea.

They set off seeking the quieter streets away from the bustling crowd. The thoroughfare was flanked by trees on both sides, their leaves rustling in response to the cool breeze that had descended after a recent rainfall. Deepika, feeling the refreshing chill, rubbed her hand against her cheek, absorbing the pleasant sensation. As they ambled along, the rhythm of their steps seemed to synchronize with the cadence of their conversation. 

As their steps carried them forward, their conversation flowed effortlessly, traversing topics that ranged from eveything. The world beyond seemed to dissolve, leaving only the two of them wrapped in a suspended moment. As their journey continued, Karthik found himself developing deeper emotions for Deepika with each exchanged word, a silent wish forming that the connection he shared was reciprocated.

On the journey back, they found themselves enveloped in a tranquil ambiance within the car, a melodic tune playing softly in the background. As the music played, a comfortable silence settled, allowing them to share their musical preferences, the notes of each song weaving a subtle connection between them. 

However, when the time came for Karthik to drop Deepika off at the entrance of her apartment building, an unexpected pang of reluctance gripped his heart. With each step she took toward the entrance, the distance between them seemed to stretch, triggering an involuntary ache within him. He waited there, his admiration for her growing, until he saw her safely entering her house. Even after a few minutes, he noticed her apartment light was still off. As he observed her from the car, he realized she hadn't yet gone inside. He realized he couldn't let her go into the building without any reassurance. A determination filled him, prompting him to take action. After taking a deep breath, he reached for his phone and called her to check what might be the issue. In that very moment, he secretly yearned for more time to be shared between them.

Deepika voiced her concern, "I seem to have misplaced my house keys. They might have slipped out of my purse somewhere, or I could've left them at the office."

Karthik offered a solution, "Would you like to go to your office or the restaurant to check if they are there?"

Deepika shook her head, her anxiety evident, "No, that might not be a good idea."

Seeking to calm her worries, Karthik suggested, "Don't worry too much. How about I come over and help you with the lock?"

Deepika contemplated for a moment and responded, "It's quite late now, and I don't want to disturb my neighbors by creating noise. But thank you for the kind offer."

Prompted by genuine concern, Karthik didn't hesitate, "What if you consider coming over to my place instead?"

Do Karthik's words genuinely reflect his thoughts?

Hot Coffee Brewing...