After the Last Goodbye (13).

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Previous Part.

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The crowd cheered as the brand Ambassador, a popular Bollywood star, cut the ribbon with a flourish. Amidst the clicking of cameras and showers of confetti, the scene was electric. Vibrant colours and buzz of excitement, with the dash of glamour made the ambience lively. The stores interiors were a stunning blend of modern and Indian flair. Intricate patterns and traditional motifs, the fusion was outstanding. 

With the upbeat music and hum of conversation, the atmosphere seemed dynamic. Brand's signature products were displayed elegantly. Among the 'oohs and aahs', fashion enthusiasts, influencers and media people mingled, checking out the latest collection. Manasi was glad to be here. Kumar and her, greeted the owners and other dignitories. 

"This is Vipul Kapoor", one of them introdced Vipul to Kumar. Vipul shook hands with him. "Kumar here! Glad to meet you Mr. Kapoor", Kumar said. "You can call me Vipul, now that we are collaborating, let's not make it so formal", Vipul smiled. 

"You've already met Manasi. Of course, you were classmates too", Kumar said.

And Vipul's eyes fell on Manasi. She looked elegant in the beautiful silk sari. Her hair let loose, neatly kohled eyes, bindi and jhumkas, made her look chic and classy. 

"Kumar knows about us? Is he Manasi's husband? The way they are togther seems so", Vipul's thoughts made him wonder. But his eyes were still locked on Manasi. Kumar sized up some jitters between them.

Manasi cleared her throat, "Hello Vipul Sir", she said, to ease the awkwardness. "Hello! Miss...Mrs. Manasi", Vipul replied. 

Kumar was now more confused. "Mrs. Manasi?", this was new to him. But as Manasi didn't clear the air, he restrained from saying anything. 

Kumar went ahead to talk to someone else, while Manasi was left standing in front of Vipul. She looked around feeling out of place all of a sudden. 

"You had called yesterday?", Vipul broke the silence. "Yes, but I didn't talk to Manavi. I kept the promise. I didn't even wish her when she told me it's her birthday", Manasi babbled, her voice was earnest. "Yes I know. she told me. I was bust with her 5th...birthday. So I couldn't call back", Vipul said, his voice was forthright. 

Manasi fidgeted with the end of her pallu and getting over her nervousness, she blurted, "Can we sit somewhere and talk Vipul? I don't want you to misunderstand any further. We'll be meeting often due to work. Let's not make this more awkward". 

"Won't your husband mind us talking like this?", Vipul asked gesturing towards Kumar. "I don't have a husband Vipul. He is my boss", Manasi replied. 

"But you were married.....", Vipul was apprehensive. "I was once.....not anymore Vipul". Manasi sounded subdued. Vipul's exprressions were flustered.

The crowd cheered once again as the Bollywood star was leaving the venue.

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AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is a fictional story. Resemblance to any sort in real life is purely coincedental.

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