> Setting: The car pulls up to a gated property surrounded by tall trees, blooming plants, and a long cobblestone driveway. The golden light of dusk falls on the windows of a stunning bungalow — more like a miniature palace than a home.
As soon as the car stopped, Aahi's eyes widened.
The house before her wasn't small… it was huge.
Cream-colored walls, large antique windows with deep wooden frames, a beautiful porch with steps leading up to hand-carved double doors. A wide garden stretched along the side, filled with roses, lavender, and koi ponds shining in soft sunlight.
> "W-wait…" Aahi blinked, stepping out of the car slowly.
"Mom… you said we were moving into a small house."
Her mother stepped out, removing her sunglasses with a sly smile.
> "This is small… compared to the last one," she said, shrugging playfully.
"You've been living in hostels and hospitals too long, Aahi. It's time you breathe again."
> "This isn't breathing," Aahi muttered. "This is a luxury spa on a mountain."
Her grandmother giggled behind her.
> "Don't complain, beti. You'll love it once you see the koi pond."
Still speechless, Aahi slowly walked up the steps — letting the scent of the flowers and warm wood calm her. The place felt ancient, peaceful… but it held secrets too.
And just as she reached the main entrance —
> "You're late."
A voice came from behind.
She turned quickly.
A young man leaned casually against the side pillar.
Mid-twenties, tall, sharp jawline, longish hair tied loosely at the back, wearing black cargo pants and a maroon half-sleeved shirt. His arms were crossed. His expression — unreadable.
There was something fiery about him… not in attitude, but in aura.
Red.
Same lazy smirk. Same piercing eyes. Same red rose casually twirled between his fingers.
He walked with the confidence of someone who didn't need permission to exist.
> "You still look like you're processing this house," he said, pausing in front of her.
"Did no one warn you that your mother's version of 'small' is a lie?"
Aahi crossed her arms, lifting an eyebrow.
> "I'm adapting."
> "You're doing great," he said with a wink.
"Most people faint. Or try to marry me out of shock."
She rolled her eyes. "Is that supposed to impress me?"
> "Not yet," he replied. "But this might."
He held out the red rose, now perfectly still in his hand.
Not flashy. Not forced. Just… offered.
> "Peace offering," he said. "For the chaos you're about to experience in this house. And for my… charming honesty."
Aahi stared at the rose, then at him.
> "Is this your daily routine? Flirt and flower?"
Red smirked wider.
> "Only when I see something worth blooming for."
> Boom. Smooth.
She hesitated for a second… then gently took the rose.
> "Thanks," she said, softly. "It's… pretty."
> "So are you," he answered without missing a beat.
Then turned and walked away again, the wind catching the hem of his shirt like some dramatic exit scene.
Aahi stood still.
Rose in hand.
Face slightly flushed.
Heart… confused.
She wasn't here for boys.
She didn't believe in sparks at first sight.
But Red?
He had a way of messing with gravity.