The day of the business party arrived, but Joyce stood firm, arms crossed. "You're not going," she declared. "It's unsafe with everything that's been happening lately. Stay home and focus on your work."
Khusi groaned, dropping to his knees dramatically. "Come on, Mama! Don't be so harsh. It's just a party! I promise we'll be careful!" He grabbed her foot, pleading like a child.
Even Aryan, usually stoic, looked hopeful, his eyes gleaming with quiet excitement.
Joyce sighed, softening as she glanced at Aryan. "Fine. Since your brother seems to want this too, I'll allow it. But remember," she said firmly, "be careful and stay out of trouble."
"You're the best, Mama! I won't let you down!"
Joyce shook her head with a small smile. "You better not."
Aryan and Khusi nodded eagerly at Joyce's words, twisting their heads in agreement like mischievous kids. The moment she turned away, they jumped with excitement, rushing off to prepare.
Their first stop? The dressing store. They browsed through racks of sharp outfits, finally settling on matching black-and-white blazers, perfectly tailored to their styles.
Khusi spun around in front of the mirror, grinning. "How do I look, Aryan? Like a superstar, right?"
Aryan simply gave a thumbs-up, his silent approval speaking volumes.
"Alright, bro," Khusi said, clapping Aryan's shoulder. "Time to rock this party in style!"
By 8 p.m., the cruise stood majestically at the port, its lights glowing against the dark waters, ready to depart. Khusi and Aryan arrived in a cab, stepping out with an air of excitement.
Nearby, Richard was already in his element, chatting with a group of girls. When he spotted Khusi, he waved him over enthusiastically.
As soon as the girls noticed Khusi and Aryan, their attention shifted. They gathered around the brothers, showering them with questions and compliments.
Richard's grin faltered, a flicker of jealousy crossing his face. "Alright, alright, enough chit-chat," he said, clapping his hands. "Let's get on board before they leave without us!"
The group hurried up the gangway as the cruise horn signaled its imminent departure, the night promising adventure.
Khusi's words were like magic, effortlessly pulling the girls around him into his orbit. His charm was undeniable, and as he smiled and chatted, the group hung on every word. Richard, feeling a bit left out, tried to step in and interrupt, but it was clear—Khusi had their attention locked in.
Aryan, seeking a break from the crowd, wandered over to the side of the ship. He leaned against the railing, his eyes scanning the sparkling city lights below. As he relaxed, a single drop of water brushed against his cheek, snapping him from his thoughts.
He turned and his gaze was immediately drawn to the upper deck. There, standing behind a glass partition, was a stunning girl, with a heart locket chain on her neck. Her cheeks were a delicate shade of red, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, and there was an air of nervous energy around her that only added to her allure.
For a brief moment, their eyes met, and Aryan felt a spark—a subtle connection that sent a rush of warmth through him. She seemed to hesitate, then quickly turned and moved inside, leaving Aryan standing there, entranced by her presence.
He couldn't help but smile, intrigued and curious. The sight of her lingered in his mind, but he eventually shook it off, turning back to enjoy the view. After a few moments, his brother's call broke his focus, and he reluctantly walked back to join the others, the mystery of the girl still swirling in his thoughts.
Inside the grand banquet hall, the music was loud and energetic, filling the air with excitement. Couples swirled and twirled across the floor, everyone in perfect rhythm. Richard, already with a beautiful partner, was lost in the dance, his eyes occasionally glancing over at his friends.
Meanwhile, Khusi and Aryan stood by the side, caught in the spotlight. Five stunning girls approached them, each eager to have them join the dance floor.
Khusi grinned, flashing a playful wink. "My brother's not really into this kind of thing," he said, gesturing toward Aryan, who gave a small, uninterested shrug. "But hey, let's not waste time! We're here to have fun!"
With that, Khusi grabbed the hands of two of the girls and led them onto the dance floor, pulling Aryan along with him. Aryan reluctantly followed, but Khusi's enthusiasm was contagious. The music took over as they joined in, moving to the beat, the energy of the room swirling around them.