Crush Story

The Interview

Aatika's heart raced with excitement as she reviewed the details of the upcoming job interview. Finally, a chance to prove herself and take a step forward in her career. With a sense of determination fueling her every step, she made her way to the designated address, unaware of the surprises that awaited her.

As the doorbell rang, Arhaan's assistant, Nisha, greeted Aatika with a warm smile, inviting her into the elegant foyer of the house. "Please, make yourself comfortable," Nisha said, gesturing towards the plush seating arrangements.

Aatika marveled at the opulence surrounding her, her eyes widening in awe as she took in the grandeur of Arhaan's home. "Wow," she breathed, unable to contain her admiration. "This place is beautiful."

Nisha chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Sir has impeccable taste," she remarked proudly. "But let's not keep him waiting. Follow me, please."

As they made their way through the spacious halls, Aatika couldn't shake the flutter of nerves in her stomach. This was it-the moment she had been waiting for. Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, she prepared herself to face whatever lay ahead.

Upon entering the room where the interview would take place, Aatika's breath caught in her throat as she came face to face with Arhaan. Despite her best efforts to maintain composure, she couldn't help but feel a surge of butterflies in her stomach at the sight of him.

But this was soon shattered as she saw a picture of him and another woman hung on the opposite wall. This lady in the frame was very beautiful elegant just how it would suit Arhaan. But as she looked at the picture carefully she realised - "This is Aafiya" . "Arhaans ex-wife " Nisha confirmed.

Aatikas heart sank and she felt something burning inside her. Was it envy? She thought.

Arhaan had his mind consumed with thoughts of finding the perfect caregiver for his beloved daughter, Aasma. His recent divorce had left him with mixed feelings about trust and vulnerability, but one thing remained unwavering-the unconditional love he held for his daughter.

Nisha gestured for her to take a seat, and Aatika obliged, her nerves tingling with anticipation. Arhaan stood there with an air of command, his presence filling the space. "Miss Aatika," he greeted curtly, his gaze piercing. "I trust you're aware of the gravity of this interview."

Aatika met his gaze with unwavering resolve. "Absolutely, Mr. Shaikh," she replied, her voice steady. "I'm here to demonstrate why I'm the perfect candidate for the position."

Arhaan's lips curved into a faint smirk. "Let's see if you can live up to that claim," he challenged, his tone laced with skepticism. "Time is precious, so let's not waste any."

With that, he dove into the interrogation, firing questions with precision, each one designed to test Aatika's mettle. But Aatika was ready, her responses quick and concise, her confidence unshakeable.

"Why should I entrust my daughter's education to you?" Arhaan demanded, his eyes narrowing.

Aatika didn't flinch. "Because I bring dedication, passion, and a proven track record of nurturing young minds to their fullest potential," she asserted, her voice unwavering.

Arhaan's skepticism lingered, but he pressed on. "And how do I know you won't disappoint me?" he probed, his tone challenging.

Aatika met his gaze with quiet determination. "Because I understand the importance of this role, Mr. Shaikh," she replied firmly. "I won't rest until I've earned your trust and exceeded your expectations."

Arhaan's demeanor softened slightly, a flicker of respect in his eyes. "We'll see about that," he conceded, his tone less harsh. "But make no mistake, Miss Aatika, my standards are high, and I expect nothing short of excellence."

Aatika nodded, her resolve unyielding. "Understood, Mr. Shaikh," she affirmed, her voice steady. "I'm ready to rise to the challenge."

"Look, Aatika," he began, his voice quieter now, "my daughter is precious to me. I can't afford to make any mistakes when it comes to her care and education. And somehow, I feel she's bonded with you after her mother left. She was too sad, but she's comfortable around you. So please, don't run away - at least not this time."

Aatika's heart softened at his words, her resolve melting in the face of his sincerity. "I won't, Mr. Shaikh," she promised, her voice gentle. "I'll be here for Aasma, for as long as you need me."

Arhaan's lips curved into a playful smirk, his eyes dancing with mischief. "Only for Aasma?" he teased, leaning closer with a twinkle in his eye. "What about me?". Aatika chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, Mr. Shaikh," she replied, matching his playful tone, "I suppose I could make an exception for you. After all, someone needs to keep you in line."

Arhaan feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart in mock hurt. "Are you implying I can't handle myself?" he protested, his voice dripping with exaggerated indignation.

Before Aatika could respond, the door creaked open, and Aasma entered the room, her bright smile lighting up the space. "Hi, Miss Thatikha!" she exclaimed, rushing forward to envelop Aatika in a warm hug.

Aatika couldn't help but return the embrace, her heart melting at the genuine affection in Aasma's gesture. "Hello, Aasma," she replied, her voice soft with affection. "It's good to see you again." Aasma exclaimed" Wow I love your unicorn bag". " Oh yes Unicorns are my favorite" blushed Aatika.

He observed as Aasma eagerly showed Aatika her latest artwork, regaling her with tales of her adventures at school.

"Daddy, Daddy, look! Miss Aatika has her own art page online. that is so cool!" Aasma exclaimed, holding up Aatika's phone proudly.

Arhaan smiled at the sight, his heart warming at the bond forming between Aasma and Aatika. "That's incredible, sweetheart. Miss Aatika must be very talented."

"She's the best! Can she stay and draw with us, Daddy?" Aasma pleaded; her eyes wide with hope.

Arhaan glanced at Aatika, who stood nearby with a gentle smile. Aatika's eyes sparkled with warmth. "I'd love to, Aasma. But I'm here to help you with your studies today. How about we save the drawing for later?"

Aasma's disappointment was evident, but she nodded reluctantly. "Okay, Miss. But you have to promise to draw with me next time, okay?"

Aatika nodded, her heart swelling with affection for the young girl. "I promise, Aasma."

There was a warmth between them, a connection that transcended the boundaries of a typical caregiver-child relationship.

Arhaan couldn't deny the fondness Aasma held for Aatika, and it stirred something within him-a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of his doubts. Perhaps Aatika was more than just a candidate; perhaps she was the missing piece to their fractured puzzle.