The forced alliance

Chapter 8

Amidst the dusty roads, Abhimaan and Aradhyaa decided to take a break at a roadside eatery, away from their mission's hustle and bustle.

The sun was scorching, and they found refuge at a shabby wooden table. The air smelled of spices, and the sounds of fellow travelers chatting in the distance created a soothing background.

As they sat down, Aradhyaa looked around, her eyes sparkling with wonder. In her quirky, filmy girl persona, she couldn't help but imagine the eatery as a set from a classic Bollywood movie.

The simplicity of the place, the rustic charm, and the aroma of spices evoked a sense of nostalgia.

"Sir, you know," she said with a mischievous glint in her eye,

"this place reminds me of that scene from a movie where Raj and Simran type couple have a moment at a dhaba. Just add a little rain, and we'd have a perfect filmi moment."

Abhimaan, ever vigilant, couldn't help but crack a small smile at her filmy reference. "You've got a vivid imagination, Aradhyaa. But remember, we're not here for a Bollywood romance.

"Aradhyaa chuckled. "I know, I know, Sir. But a little Bollywood flair doesn't hurt, right?"

Abhimaan, always on guard, remained watchful, though a touch less grumpy than usual. He scanned their surroundings, mindful of potential threats.

He couldn't help but notice Aradhyaa's enjoyment of the place, which softened his demeanor a bit.While waiting for their meal, Aradhyaa broke the silence.

"This place is so different from our usual surroundings, isn't it?"

Abhimaan grunted in agreement, his guard still up. "It's a welcome change. We need a break."

Aradhyaa couldn't help but notice Abhimaan's subtle glances.

She decided to bring up the recent mission. "I must say, Sir, your briefing earlier was impressive. Your attention to detail is remarkable."

Abhimaan nodded, still focused on his food but visibly pleased.

"Thank you, Aradhyaa. It's crucial to be thorough when we're dealing with matters like this."As they were waiting for their meal Aradhyaa decided to open up a bit more.

"I've always admired your dedication to the job, even if your exterior is a bit gruff."

Abhimaan chuckled, a rare sight. "I guess I've developed a tough shell over the years. It's not easy in this field.

"Aradhyaa couldn't help but smile. "Well, I appreciate that you're looking out for me.

Their food arrived, and they quietly enjoyed a simple yet delicious meal. Aradhyaa savored the flavors, and Abhimaan, though engrossed in his food, occasionally stole glances at her. There was an unspoken connection growing between them, stronger since their mission briefing.

Aradhyaa couldn't help but notice Abhimaan's subtle glances.

Aradhyaa's filmi spirit was contagious, and Abhimaan found himself appreciating the simplicity of this moment. It offered a temporary escape from their high-stakes mission.

After sometime a group of 5 to 6 rowdy boys stopped at dhaba

As Aradhyaa and Abhimaan sat at the wooden table, savoring the flavors of their meal and enjoying the rustic charm of the eatery, a group of unruly men entered. Their loud laughter and disrespectful comments in Hindi disrupted the peaceful atmosphere.

One of the goons, named Ravi, elbowed his friend, Raju, and leered at Aradhyaa, saying, "Dekh be, kya maal hai! Kaash, woh yehan hamare saath baithi hoti."