Chapter 17

The college auditorium glowed with golden lights as the fest reached its grand finale—a masquerade-style ball organized by the students. Music swelled through the speakers, soft at first, then rising into a rhythm that pulled everyone toward the dance floor.

Students, dressed in gowns and sharp suits, twirled and laughed. Some professors stood back, clapping and cheering. Others, drawn into the spirit, joined the fun. The air carried the sweet mix of celebration and freedom.

Poornima stood near the edge, watching her students dance with innocent joy. She smiled, her simple blue saree flowing lightly as she adjusted her glasses. She had no intention of stepping onto that floor—dancing was not her strength.

But then a familiar voice cut through the music.

“Dance with me, Miss Rai.”

She turned, startled. Veeresh Raj stood before her, tall and magnetic in his dark suit, his hand extended. His eyes held their usual command, but tonight, something gentler lingered there.

Poornima blinked, shaking her head slightly. “I… I don’t know how to dance.”

A rare smile curved on Veeresh’s lips. “Then let me teach you.”

Before she could protest again, his hand wrapped around hers—warm, steady, certain. He pulled her gently onto the dance floor. The students cheered, thrilled to see their professors joining in.

The music slowed, shifting into a soft melody. Veeresh placed her hand carefully in his, his other hand guiding her with quiet precision. At first, Poornima’s steps were hesitant, her movements unsure.

But his grip was firm, reassuring, his gaze steady. “Just follow me,” he whispered.

And so she did. Step by step, her nervousness melted. Their movements grew in rhythm, her laughter escaping as she nearly stumbled and he caught her with ease. For a fleeting moment, under the glowing lights and the curious eyes of their students, time blurred.

To the world, it was just a dance.

To them, it was something else—an unspoken beginning.