TARGET: 45 VOTES AND COMMENTS!

Shubman stood in the hotel lobby, the bouquet of pink roses in his hand, trying to calm his racing heart. 

He wore a vibrant, tropical button-up adorned with pink, blue, and yellow palm tree patterns, the bright blue collar standing out against his tanned skin. 

Perfect for a beach party, he thought, glancing at the time, excited for Layla to arrive.

Just then, he spotted her coming down the stairs, and he felt his breath catch. 

Layla stepped into view wearing a stunning short spaghetti strap red dress that hugged her figure perfectly, paired with a white sheen shrug.

The dress accentuated her sun-kissed skin, and Shubman couldn't help but stare.

"Wow," he breathed, meeting her at the bottom of the stairs. "You look pretty!"

She grinned, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Thank you! And you... well, you clean up nicely too, Mr Businessman" She noticed the bouquet and her smile widened. "Are those for me?"

He nodded, handing her the flowers. "Pink roses—your favorite, right?"

She inhaled the sweet scent, her heart fluttering. "They are! You're full of surprises, Shub." She glanced up at him, teasingly. "Is this a date or something?"

"Date?" Shubman echoed, raising an eyebrow playfully. "Well, I didn't say that. But... if you want it to be, I wouldn't complain."

Layla laughed, her voice light and airy. "So we're not actually dating, then? Just two people enjoying a beach party?"

"Exactly! Just two friends, enjoying a lovely evening," he said, trying to sound nonchalant while suppressing the slight flutter of nerves.

"Friends who give each other roses," she teased, taking a step closer, her shoulder brushing against his. "What would others think?"

"Let them think what they want," Shubman replied with a wink. "I'm here to protect my friend from all those staring eyes. You know, I'm basically your bodyguard now."

"Haan, bilkul!" she laughed, rolling her eyes. "My very colorful bodyguard."

As they walked out of the hotel together, Layla couldn't help but glance over at him, impressed by his vibrant outfit. "Nice shirt, by the way. Very tropical!"

Shubman chuckled, shaking his head. "I can't be too much of a show-off, can I?"

"Arre kyu nahi? Show off all you want! But I'm definitely not carrying around a giant flower necklace," she replied, giggling as they stepped onto the beach.

Once they reached the party, Shubman's eyes widened as he noticed the crowd. Layla was instantly the center of attention. 

Men all around them stared in awe, their eyes lingering a little too long, and he felt a pang of jealousy grip his chest. He instinctively pulled Layla closer to him.

"Hey! Easy there, don't crush the flowers," she teased, glancing up at him.

"Kya karun? You're like a magnet for attention!" he replied, his voice a mix of amusement and irritation.

"Toh kya hua? You should be proud," she said, flashing him a confident smile. "Besides, I'm only here with you."

"Still, it doesn't sit right with me. I'm not a fan of sharing," Shubman admitted, his tone half-serious, half-joking.

Layla raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh really? Possessive much, Shub?"

"Only a little," he said, trying to sound casual. "Now, how about we get some tequila to take the edge off?"

"Tequila it is!" she said, her eyes lighting up at the suggestion. They walked over to the bar, and as they approached, Shubman felt a little surge of confidence. 

"Two tequila shots, please!" he ordered with a grin.

She leaned in closer, her voice playful. "You think you can handle it, tough guy?"

He smirked, leaning back against the bar. "Mujhse panga mat lo! Mei Thor hu. What about you?"

"OMG! that was so cute! But I can handle myself, Thank you very much" she replied, a competitive glint in her eye.

"Dekhte hain! Let's see who can keep up then," he said, holding up his shot glass as the bartender slid them their drinks.

"Cheers to that!" Layla clinked her glass against his, their eyes locking for a brief moment that felt electric.

"Cheers!" Shubman echoed, and they both downed their shots in unison, the smooth burn of tequila igniting their spirits.

The beach party was in full swing, music blaring as laughter and chatter filled the air. 

After a few tequila shots, Layla and Shubman found themselves sitting on a cozy lounge chair with a perfect view of the waves, the glow of string lights overhead adding to the romantic ambiance.

"Alright, since we're basically best friends now," he began, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, "let's play a game of 21 Questions!"

"Since when?" She asked, raising an eyebrow. "What are we, kids?"

"Exactly! Just two kids having fun," he replied, taking another shot and immediately refilling his glass. "I'll start. What's your favorite food?"

"ghar ka khana! Nothing beats my mom's cooking," she said, her eyes lighting up at the thought. "What about you?"

"Butter chicken!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "You can't go wrong with it, especially if it's from a good dhaba!"

"Are you secretly a food critic or something?" she teased, shaking her head in disbelief. "Okay, your turn."

"Fine! What's your favorite childhood memory?" he asked, leaning in, intrigued.

"Oh, that's easy! Me, my sister and my mom visiting my nana- nani in Punjab," she replied, her smile fading slightly as if a deeper emotion was hiding beneath.

"Okay, what's your dream job?" Shubman asked, genuinely curious.

"Honestly? I'd love to be a travel writer. Exploring the world and writing about it sounds amazing," Layla said, a dreamy look in her eyes. "And you?"

"Main? I'm a businessman," he replied, feigning seriousness while trying to suppress his laughter.

"Real estate, investing, that sort of stuff. Very high stakes. You know, the usual."

"Businessman, huh? With a bright shirt like that, I'd say you're the life of the corporate party," she laughed, playfully nudging him with her elbow.

"Hey! It's all about branding," he shot back, trying to keep a straight face. "Plus, it attracts clients."

They continued taking shots, giggling as they dove deeper into the questions.

"What's one thing you've never told anyone?" Shubman asked, his expression turning more serious.

"Umm... that I used to be super shy in school," Layla confessed, her voice quieting down. "I had a tough time making friends. I still get nervous in big groups."

"Seriously? You're like a social butterfly now!" he replied, his eyes wide in surprise. "So, it's all an act?"

"Not an act! Just... a learned skill," she said, shrugging. "But enough about me. What about you? What's something you're passionate about?"

He hesitated, almost spilling the truth about his cricket career. "Well, I love helping people—like, a lot," he said. "I run a business where I give back to the community."

She narrowed her eyes, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "You're not selling used cars, are you?"

"Bilkul nahi! Just imagine, me in a suit, selling used cars! Not my vibe at all," he said, dramatically shaking his head.

They were both a few shots in now, and the laughter came easily, but Layla could sense Shubman's evasiveness. 

She decided to press a bit. "So, any hidden talents?"

"Oh, I can juggle!" he replied, grinning like a child. "Watch this!" He grabbed a few empty shot glasses, stacking them awkwardly in his hands. "One, two, three—"

"Are you serious? Put those down before you break something!" she laughed, trying to stop him. But he tossed them up, and they clattered to the ground.

"Oops!" he chuckled sheepishly. "Well, that went well."

They both burst into laughter, the chemistry between them growing stronger.

"Okay, okay, let's get serious for a second," Layla said, her eyes twinkling. "What's your biggest fear?"

Shubman paused, the playful facade slipping for a moment. "I guess... letting people down. Especially my family."

She sensed the vulnerability in his tone and felt a pang in her chest. "Woah, that's deep! You're not just a businessman. You're a philosopher too."

"And what about you?" he asked, tilting his head, genuinely curious.

"Mine? Hmm, I guess... being alone. I always worry that I'll never find my place or my people," she admitted, looking down at her drink.

He felt a soft tug at his heart. He realized he wanted to be one of those people for her. "You're not alone, Layla. You've got me."

"Kya? Just because you brought me flowers and tequila doesn't mean we're best friends!" she shot back, but there was warmth in her tone.

"Fine, but I'm keeping the flowers!" he declared dramatically, raising his drink in a toast. "To unexpected friendships and chaotic games!"

"Cheers!" Layla clinked her glass against his once more, the tension between them electric.

 They both took another shot, and Shubman noticed her lingering hesitation to open up fully. He decided to change the subject for now.

"What's your guilty pleasure?" he asked, attempting to keep things light.

"Rajshri Bollywood movies! I can binge-watch them for hours!" she replied, her eyes shining with excitement. "And I'm not ashamed of it!"

"Wow! So you're a Bollywood buff, huh? What's your favorite movie?" Shubman asked, leaning in.

"Hum Saath Saath Hai! It's a classic! How about you?" Layla grinned, enjoying the banter.

"I like science fiction," he replied, laughing.

They spent the next few rounds of questions diving deeper into each other's lives, sharing stories and laughter, each shot breaking down barriers and drawing them closer. T

he beach party continued around them, but it felt like they were in their own little world.

As the night wore on, Layla felt herself slowly warming to him, despite the little voice in her head that urged her to keep her guard up. 

Shubman, on the other hand, was more intrigued than ever, determined to uncover the layers of the woman sitting beside him.

"Okay, one last question, Shub," she said, her voice more serious. "What do you want most out of life?"

He took a moment, his expression thoughtful. "I want to leave a mark—something that people will remember me for. And maybe... find someone special to share it with." 

He looked at her, the weight of his words hanging in the air.

She felt a warmth spread through her, and she found herself smiling softly. "You will, I'm sure of it," she said, her voice sincere.

As the vibrant music pulsed through the beach party, Layla and Shubman continued their playful banter, the atmosphere charged with excitement and the smell of salt in the air.

 Suddenly, a tall, blond guy sauntered over, exuding confidence as he flashed a charming smile.

"Hey there! I couldn't help but notice how stunning you look tonight," he said, his voice smooth. "How about a dance?"

She raised an eyebrow, her expression quickly shifting from amused to unimpressed. "Thanks, but no thanks," she replied firmly, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.

Shubman's laughter bubbled up, seeing the blond's surprise at Layla's rejection. 

The blond boy's grin faltered, and he straightened up, momentarily caught off guard. "Come on, don't be like that. I promise I'm a great dancer."

Layla looked up, her expression shifting from unimpressed to anger"Uh, no, thanks!" she replied, her tone sharp. "I'm actually in the middle of something important here."

Shubman couldn't help but crack up with laughter at the boy's audacity. "Dude, you really picked the wrong moment!" he said, shaking his head as he took a sip of his drink.

The blond's confident facade shattered completely as he stammered, "Uh, right... maybe I'll just... uh... find someone else?" 

He awkwardly stepped back, the wind of embarrassment and regret visibly deflating him.

Shubman erupted in laughter, the sound loud and infectious.

"You should've seen that coming, man!" he called out, enjoying the sight of the blond walking away, his shoulders slumped.

"Don't worry, he'll get over it," Layla said with a chuckle, trying to suppress her amusement. "Some people just don't know when to take a hint."

"Clearly!" he replied, still grinning. "But that was legendary. You just saved me from having to step in and save your honor."

" I've had enough of guys thinking they can just waltz in here and sweep me off my feet," she said, rolling her eyes. "Especially when they're not my type."

"Oh? And what is your type?" Shubman asked, raising an eyebrow and leaning closer, curiosity sparkling in his eyes.

"Hmm, I guess someone who's confident but not cocky," Layla replied, her gaze meeting his. "And definitely someone who can make me laugh."

"Wow, that sounds a lot like me!" he said, grinning widely. "Except for the not cocky part, of course."

Layla laughed, shaking her head. "You might be onto something. Just don't let it get to your head."

"I'll try my best! But now you owe me a dance!" Shubman declared playfully, standing up and extending his hand. "Let's show everyone how it's really done."

With a mix of reluctance and laughter, she took his hand, the tension of the moment quickly evaporating as they headed toward the dance floor, the energy around them buzzing with life.

As the night deepened, the atmosphere shifted from lively chatter to an intimate ambiance, illuminated by twinkling fairy lights and the soft glow of lanterns. 

Both stood close together, the noise of the party fading into the background as a slow song began to play. 

The soft, sultry sounds of "Senorita" by Shawn and Camila filled the air, wrapping around them like a warm embrace.

With a subtle tug, Shubman pulled Layla closer, their bodies almost fitting perfectly together.

 Her heart raced as they began to sway, the rhythm drawing them into each other's orbit.

His hands found their place on her waist, his touch both comforting and electric.

She looked up, meeting his gaze, and felt her breath hitch. The world around them faded, leaving just the two of them in this moment. 

She could feel the heat radiating off his body, the way his presence enveloped her like a protective shield.

"Kya soch rahe ho?" she whispered, her voice barely audible above the music, a playful challenge in her eyes.

"Bas tumhare baare mein" he replied, his tone low and teasing, causing her cheeks to flush.

As they danced, their movements grew more fluid and passionate. He leaned closer, his lips grazing the shell of her ear, sending shivers down her spine. 

She could feel his warm breath against her skin, making her pulse quicken with desire.

She bit her lip, resisting the urge to lean in closer as she savored the tension building between them.

Their bodies swayed in perfect harmony, inching closer as they moved. With every turn, Layla felt the heat rising between them, their chemistry undeniable.

 Shubman's hands moved from her waist to her back, gently pulling her in as he dipped his head, their foreheads almost touching.

She could see the warmth in his eyes, the longing reflected in his gaze.

They inhaled deeply, the air thick with anticipation. It felt as if time had stopped, the outside world completely forgotten as they got lost in each other. 

The song's lyrics flowed through the air like a whisper, urging them to take that final step.

Just as they were about to close the distance, lips almost brushing, a shrill ringtone shattered the moment, echoing through the intimacy they had created.

 Rrrrrrrriiiinggggggggggg

The sound was harsh and jarring, breaking their connection.

Layla groaned in annoyance, rolling her eyes as she pulled away slightly.

"Seriously? Who disturbs moment like this?" she exclaimed, frustration etched across her features.

Shubman chuckled softly, trying to mask his disappointment. "I'm so sorry," he said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out his phone, glancing at the screen. "It's my manager, Seb. Must be important."

"Is it more important than our moment?" she teased, a playful pout on her lips, but her heart still raced from the near kiss.

He glanced back at her, his eyes filled with regret. "I'll be quick, promise!" he said, giving her an apologetic smile before answering the call.

 As he turned away, Layla watched him, her heart still fluttering from their intimate dance.

As Shubman spoke, she couldn't help but replay the moment in her mind, the heat of his body so close to hers, the tension that had hung in the air, and the unspoken words that lingered just on the tip of their tongues. 

It was maddening how one phone call could interrupt something so perfect.

"Sorry, just give me a minute," he said into the phone, his voice muffled.

 Layla crossed her arms, tapping her foot impatiently as she glanced around, trying to shake off the lingering feelings from their almost-kiss.

"Kya bakchodi hai," she muttered under her breath, her mind racing with thoughts about the chemistry they shared.

 She couldn't deny the thrill, but as much as she tried to ignore it, the undeniable attraction was growing stronger by the second.

As Shubman wrapped up the call, she shot him a teasing glare. "*I was enjoying our dance, you know!*"

"I know, I know!" he said, laughing as he walked back towards her. "But now I owe you a proper dance, right? One without interruptions."

Layla smirked, feeling her earlier annoyance melt away. "*Fine, but this time, let's not let phones ruin the moment."

"Deal," he said, extending his hand to her, an invitation for another round on the dance floor.

With a smile, she took it, feeling the warmth of his grip and the excitement of what was still to come.

Few hours later,

As the party continued to sway in the background, Layla and Shubman found refuge in a cozy hammock nestled beneath swaying palm trees.

The gentle breeze brushed against their skin, and the rhythmic creaking of the hammock offered a soothing backdrop as they settled into the fabric, the tension from their earlier dance still hanging in the air.

Layla nestled against the soft material, trying to shake off the feelings of uncertainty that flooded her mind.

Shubman, sitting beside her, glanced over, his expression serious yet soft.

"So, what was that earlier?" Layla broke the silence, her voice low but firm, her heart pounding with the need to clear the air.

"Do we even know what we are? Friends? Or something more?"

Shubman sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I thought we were getting to something more," he replied, his gaze steady as he met her eyes.

"I mean, the way we dance, the way we talk... it feels special, doesn't it?"

"But we've only known each other for two days," she countered, shaking her head. "How can we jump to anything serious? It's crazy!"

"Is it?" he pressed, his voice rising slightly in frustration.

"You feel it too, don't you? There's a connection between us! Just because it's been a short time doesn't mean it's not real."

"Shub" she sighed, exasperation creeping into her tone.

"You can't just dive into something without knowing where it's going. What if it doesn't work out?"

"What if it does?" he shot back, his eyes glimmering with emotion. "What if we're meant to be something incredible together?"

"You're not thinking straight," she insisted, feeling a wave of panic rising within her.

"This is a vacation fling for you. You'll go back to your life, and I'll go back to mine. We can't be serious about this."

Shubman's expression softened, and he leaned closer, a vulnerability creeping into his voice. "I'm not just looking for a fling. I really like you, Layla."

She felt her heart flutter at his words, yet doubt gnawed at her.

"But you barely know me. What if this is just a spark? What happens when the vacation ends?"

"Then we figure it out,"  he replied, frustration mingling with desperation.

"I don't want to lose this. You don't know how rare it is to find someone you click with so easily."

"And you're already crying over this?" she challenged, folding her arms as she leaned back. "You're being ridiculous."

"Maybe I am," he admitted, his voice trembling slightly.

"But I can't help how I feel. I like you, and I don't want to let fear dictate what could be something amazing. I'm ready to take a leap if you are."

Layla's heart ached at the sight of his vulnerable side.

She could see the sincerity in his eyes, the way he was willing to put himself out there, while she was holding back. "Shub, I—"

"Please, just give me a chance," he interrupted, emotion spilling over.

"I'll prove to you that this can be real. You don't have to be scared. I promise I won't rush you. But don't shut the door before we even try."

She felt the lump in her throat grow as his words sank in. She was terrified of vulnerability, of opening herself up to someone she hardly knew.

"I just... I don't know if I can do this," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You don't have to have all the answers right now," he coaxed, reaching out to squeeze her hand gently.

"Just know that I want to be here for you. No matter what that looks like. Just don't walk away from something that could be beautiful because you're scared."

Layla's heart raced, torn between the pull of her fear and the warmth of his words.

She could see the sincerity in his eyes, the way he genuinely wanted to understand her hesitation.

But could she really let him in?

"I need time," she finally replied, pulling her hand away, her heart aching at the thought of pushing him away.

"This is all too much for me right now."

"I can wait," he said softly, the vulnerability etched across his features. "*But I'll be here, ready whenever you are.*"

They sat in silence, the weight of the conversation lingering heavily between them.

Layla leaned back into the hammock, staring up at the stars twinkling above, her mind racing with a whirlwind of emotions.

She didn't want to hurt him, but she also didn't want to get hurt herself.

As the party continued to shine with life, she knew one thing for sure: the connection they shared was undeniable, and the fear of losing it scared her more than anything.

Heyyy everyone.
So this was the seventh chapter of the book.

I have no idea what i have written in this one. Matlab, kuch bhi?

Did you see how almost Lulu and Shub kissed?

Did you like how she rejected that Gora Pakora?

Anyways back to the topic,
How was it?

Please comment as much as possible.
They're important to me.

Any guesses for the next chapter?

(I really want to write an angsty chapter, but It'll come much later, probably chapter 17-18)

Till then,
With love
Yours author 💕