Chapter 38: A Hint of Jealousy

The corporate event continued with guests moving from one display to another.

Veeresh was speaking with a few business associates when he noticed movement near the entrance.

He turned.

His eyes widened.

Poornima.

She had arrived wearing a simple yet elegant saree, carrying herself with quiet confidence.

Veeresh (thinking): Poons? What is she doing here?

Before he could walk over to her, Arnav noticed her arrival.

A warm smile appeared on Arnav's face as he walked toward her.

Arnav: "Ms. Poornima! Welcome."

Poornima smiled politely.

Poornima: "Thank you for inviting me, Mr. Qureshi."

They shook hands.

Veeresh watched the interaction from across the hall.

Veeresh (thinking): She was invited? She didn't tell me.

Arnav gestured toward the dessert display.

Arnav: "Please come."

"I'd like to introduce you to a few of our guests."

Poornima nodded.

Poornima: "Certainly."

They walked together through the hall.

Several guests recognized her.

Guest 1: "Your desserts are exceptional."

Guest 2: "The macarons were amazing."

Guest 3: "I've visited your bakery many times."

Guest 4: "Everything is beautifully presented."

Poornima smiled graciously.

Poornima: "Thank you so much."

"I'm glad you enjoyed them."

Across the room, Veeresh continued watching.

He folded his arms.

Arnav leaned in slightly while speaking to Poornima so they could hear each other over the noise of the event.

They laughed politely during the conversation.

To Veeresh...

It looked as though Arnav was standing a little too close.

His jaw tightened.

Veeresh (thinking): Why is he standing so close?

A little distance wouldn't hurt.

Another guest joined them.

Arnav proudly introduced Poornima.

Arnav: "She's the talent behind today's desserts."

The guests applauded her work.

Poornima thanked them with a smile.

Veeresh felt proud hearing everyone praise her.

But at the same time...

He couldn't stop looking at Arnav.

Every time Arnav smiled while talking to her...

Every time he stepped a little closer in the crowded hall...

A strange feeling settled inside Veeresh.

He had never experienced it before.

Veeresh (thinking): What is this feeling?

...Am I jealous?

He let out a quiet sigh.

Watching from a distance wasn't easy anymore.

He straightened his coat.

Veeresh (thinking): Enough.

Time to go to my wife.

With that, he began walking toward Poornima, determined to join the conversation.