The annual college gala was the kind of event where reputations were cemented and social games were played to perfection. Ruhi hadn't planned on making a statement tonight, but after the past few days of Abhi's teasing and his newfound interest in making her jealous, she decided it was time to remind him exactly who he was dealing with.
Dressed in a sleek black gown that hugged her figure just right, she walked into the grand hall, her head held high. She could feel the eyes turning toward her, whispers of admiration and envy trailing in her wake. But there was only one gaze she was searching for.
She spotted Abhi near the bar, effortlessly charming a group of students. He was dressed in a tailored suit, his presence commanding as always. But when his eyes landed on her, his smirk faltered for just a second-just enough for Ruhi to know her entrance had the intended effect.
She walked past him without a word, ignoring the way his gaze followed her. Before she could reach the group of girls she usually hung out with, a familiar voice called out to her.
"Ruhi! You look-wow."
She turned to find Rohan standing there, looking genuinely impressed. He extended a hand. "Can I have this dance?"
Ruhi hesitated for the briefest moment before placing her hand in his. She wasn't particularly interested in Rohan, but she wasn't above using him to prove a point. As they stepped onto the dance floor, she made sure to steal a glance at Abhi.
He was watching. And he wasn't amused.
Rohan, oblivious to the silent war unfolding, led her into the dance. "You're glowing tonight," he murmured.
Ruhi smiled, tilting her head slightly. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Rohan."
He chuckled, spinning her gracefully. But even as she danced, she could feel the weight of Abhi's gaze. The moment the song ended, she turned-only to find him right there, standing close, his expression unreadable.
Without a word, Abhi extended a hand toward her, dismissing Rohan entirely.
She raised a brow. "What, no clever remark?"
He simply smirked. "Dance with me."
It wasn't a request.
As she placed her hand in his, she felt a familiar thrill rush through her. The game between them was far from over.
And neither of them was willing to lose.
....to be continued.....
Author's Note:
Forget the gala—this was a battlefield in black-tie. Ruhi came dressed to slay, and Abhi? Oh, he didn't even know what hit him. That little crack in his cool? Yeah, we saw it. And now they're dancing—not just with each other, but on the razor edge of obsession and pride. Who's winning? Who cares—we're just here for the sparks.
—Your author, sipping drama like champagne and loving every second.