The orange hues of the setting sun bathed the KC Headquarters in a warm glow, creating long shadows across the polished floors. Inside her cabin, Vayra leaned back in her chair with a tired sigh. Her fingers ached from flipping through countless files, and her eyes were strained from hours of staring at her computer screen.

She stretched her arms above her head, arching her back slightly to ease the tension in her muscles. The stack of case files she’d been working on was finally complete, neatly arranged on the edge of her desk. For a moment, she allowed herself to bask in the quiet satisfaction of a job well done.

Her moment of peace was interrupted by the soft buzz of her phone vibrating against the table. Startled, she glanced at the screen. The sight of the sender’s name made her heartbeat quicken.

Abhishek❤

A small smile crept onto her lips as she unlocked her phone.

Busy solving crimes, Officer Vayra?

Her cheeks flushed a delicate pink. She glanced at the door of her cabin, ensuring no one was around to witness the uncharacteristic blush on her usually composed face. She quickly typed a reply.

What’s it to you, cricketer? Shouldn’t you be practicing your batting skills instead of texting me?

The reply came almost instantly, as if he’d been waiting for her response.

Practice is over. My focus is now entirely on you.

Her blush deepened, and she bit her lip to suppress a grin.

Smooth. But I’ve got work to do.

Work? At this hour? Don’t tell me you’re planning to camp out at the office tonight.

I might, considering how much there is to do.

You’re impossible. But adorable. Take a break, Vayra. You’re not a robot.

She couldn’t help but laugh softly at his words. Abhishek had an uncanny ability to read her mind, always knowing when she needed a gentle reminder to take care of herself.

Fine, but only because you asked so nicely.

That’s my girl. Now, what’s your plan for tonight? Or do I have to kidnap you for a proper dinner?

Vayra smirked at his audacity.

Kidnap me? That’s bold talk for someone who knows I carry handcuffs.

You say that like it’s a threat.

Her laughter filled the empty cabin, a rare sound that broke through the usual seriousness of her surroundings.

---

The conversation flowed effortlessly, their teasing banter a welcome distraction from the weight of her responsibilities. For the next few minutes, the outside world faded away as they shared playful texts, Abhishek’s charm drawing her further away from her work-induced fatigue.

When the clock struck seven, Vayra realized how much time had passed. She glanced at her desk, still littered with loose papers, but for once, she didn’t feel the pressure to dive back into work.

I’ll call you in ten minutes. Pick up, or else.

Or else what?

Or else I’ll show up at your office and embarrass you in front of your colleagues.

She shook her head, smiling despite herself.

You wouldn’t dare.

Try me.

Her grin widened as she typed her final reply.

Alright, alright. I’ll pick up. You win this time.

She set her phone down, her heart a little lighter than it had been all day. As she began tidying up her desk, she realized how grateful she was for moments like these—moments where she could let her guard down and simply enjoy the attention of the man who had somehow found his way into her fiercely guarded heart.

For the first time that evening, Vayra allowed herself to feel something other than exhaustion. She felt cherished.