Manvi had been tirelessly searching for a job but hadn't been able to secure one. It was becoming increasingly difficult for her to manage as she had rent and monthly bills to pay. She found herself in a cafeteria, sipping a coffee, lost in her thoughts. 

Aarav entered the cafeteria with one of his clients and settled at a table opposite to Manvi's. They engaged in a discussion about a project. Manvi glanced at him and was surprised to see him there. After finishing the meeting, Aarav walked over to her.

"May I?" Aarav asked, gesturing to the seat opposite hers.

Manvi hesitated for a moment but nodded, "Haan Aaravji, baithiye." she replied, unsure of his intentions.

Aarav settled down and Manvi asked, clearly curious, "Aap aur meeting yahan?"

Aarav smiled warmly, "Haan, meri beti ka hukum hai main apna akdupan thoda kam karun."

Manvi smiled in response to his words. "Mujhe bahut acha laga aap mein itna badlav dekhke."

"Tum sahi kehti thi Manvi," Aarav replied thoughtfully, "haan, main apne emotions hamesha chupake rakhta tha lekin tumne meri aankhein padh li."

"Aaravji, aapke saath jo hua wo bahut galat tha lekin kisiki wajah se khudko badal lena, yeh toh aapne khudke saath hi nainsaafi ki hai na," Manvi pointed out gently.

"Manvi, kabhi kabhi khudko protect karne ke liye badlna padta hai! Main sirf duniya ke liye badla tha, apni beti ke nahi," Aarav explained.

"Baatein toh sahi kahi aapne. Waise ek baat kahun?" Manvi said, seeking to change the subject.

Aarav nodded in agreement.

"Aapka yeh akdupan aap par suit karta hai," Manvi complimented him.

He smiled warmly at her and then noticed the file in her hand. "Tum job ke liye?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Manvi sighed softly. "Haan, woh case ki wajah se mujhe nikal diya coaching waalon ne. Toh bas permanent job dhoondh rahi hun koi," she explained, hoping he would understand her predicament.

Aarav nodded thoughtfully, then straightened up with a determined look in his eyes.  "Mere office mein ek vacancy hai. Tum chaho toh join kar sakti ho." he offered.

Manvi was taken aback by his suggestion. "Main? Par main toh ek teacher hun," she responded, trying to politely decline.

Aarav's demeanor changed subtly. He leaned forward, his tone becoming more insistent. "Isliye financial consultant tumse achha koi ho nahi sakta! Think about it," He pressed on, his confidence bordering on arrogance.

Manvi felt uncomfortable with his attitude. She straightened in her seat, feeling pressured. "Aaravji, main aapka offer appreciate karti hun par mujhe lagta hai ki main khud apne efforts se job dhundh lungi," she asserted politely but firmly, hoping he would respect her decision.

Aarav's expression hardened slightly, his jaw set. "Manvi, sometimes opportunities come knocking only once. This is a chance for you to step up," he countered, his words now sounding more like a command than an offer.

Manvi felt a surge of frustration. She had always admired Aarav, but now she sensed a side of him that made her uneasy. "I understand, Aaravji, lekin mujhe aapki madad ki zarurat nahi hai," she replied, her tone tinged with disappointment.

Aarav leaned back in his chair, his disappointment palpable. "So be it," he said curtly, pulling out his shades and leaving without another word.

Manvi watched him go, conflicted and disheartened. She had hoped for understanding and support, but instead, she felt pressured and misunderstood. As she sat there alone in the cafeteria, she resolved to continue her job search on her own terms, determined not to compromise her principles or accept help that didn't feel right.

Aarav sat in his car, frustration simmering beneath the surface. His thoughts churned with irritation as he recalled the situation involving Dhruv and Manvi.

"Uss Dhruv ne itna kuch kar diya hai, phir bhi samajh nahi rahi hai yeh ladki!" he muttered to himself, his voice edged with annoyance. "Dhakke maarke nikali gayi hai coaching centre se... Koi school ya coaching centre waale wapas nahi lenge."

He gripped the steering wheel tightly, his mind replaying the injustice Manvi had faced despite Dhruv's involvement. Aarav knew Dhruv's actions had caused repercussions that were now affecting Manvi's job prospects.

"Ab kya karein?" he pondered aloud, frustration evident in his tone. He felt torn between wanting to help Manvi and realizing the limitations imposed by her current situation.

Aarav took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He knew Manvi's dismissal was unfair, but the challenge lay in finding a solution that respected her dignity and independence. As he drove on, his thoughts raced with possibilities, determined to find a way to support Manvi without compromising her principles or his own convictions.

Aarav sat at his desk in his office, contemplating the best way to proceed. He knew Manvi needed a job urgently, and despite their previous interaction, he was determined to help her without overstepping boundaries again. With a decisive nod, he picked up his phone and dialed his assistant.

"Advertise for the job vacancy we have," he instructed, his tone firm yet thoughtful.

His assistant acknowledged the order and swiftly put together an advertisement, highlighting the qualifications required for the position. Within hours, the ad was posted online and in local newspapers.

Meanwhile, in her small apartment, Manvi sat at her desk, going through her bills. The landlord's recent ultimatum weighed heavily on her mind. She knew she needed a job quickly to avoid eviction.

Glancing at her laptop, she noticed Aarav's job advertisement for a financial consultant position in his office. Despite her reservations about accepting help from him again, the urgency of her situation left her with little choice. She took a deep breath and made up her mind to apply.

A few days later, Manvi found herself in front of Aarav's office building, nerves tingling with anticipation and anxiety. She took a moment to compose herself before entering, walking through the sleek glass doors into the reception area.

"May I help you?" the receptionist asked politely.

"I'm here for the interview for the financial consultant position," Manvi replied, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil.

The receptionist checked her list and nodded. "aap baithyie Mr. Aarav will be with you shortly."

Manvi sat down, her heart pounding with a mix of apprehension and determination. She rehearsed possible interview questions in her mind, determined to make a good impression.

After what seemed like an eternity, Aarav emerged from his office and saw Manvi waiting nervously. He approached her with a welcoming smile that she found both reassuring and unsettling.

"Manvi, thank you for coming in," he greeted her warmly, motioning for her to follow him into his office.

Manvi followed, trying to keep her composure. "Thank you for considering my application, Aaravji," she replied, using the formality to maintain a professional distance.

Aarav nodded, taking a seat behind his desk. "Let's get started then," he said, his tone business-like yet not devoid of empathy.

The interview progressed with Aarav asking probing questions about her experience and skills. Manvi answered to the best of her ability, her determination to secure the job evident in every word.

As the interview drew to a close, Aarav leaned forward slightly. "Manvi, I appreciate your candid responses," he began, his eyes searching hers.

Manvi held her breath, unsure of what was to come next.

"We'll be in touch soon," Aarav concluded, his tone giving nothing away.

Manvi nodded, standing to leave. "Thank you, Aaravji," she said, mustering a small smile.

She walked out of his office, her mind racing with thoughts about what the future held, grateful for the opportunity yet wary of the complexities it might bring.

Aarav sat across from Manvi in his office, the atmosphere tense yet professional. He had just completed the interview, carefully assessing her qualifications and potential fit for the financial consultant position.

"Manvi, aaj tum apna waqt nikal ke aayi I appreciate it," Aarav began, his voice measured as he leaned forward slightly.

Manvi nodded, trying to gauge his reaction. "Thank you, Aaravji. I'm grateful for the opportunity."

Aarav nodded in acknowledgment. "Your experience and skills are commendable," he continued, his expression serious. "And after careful consideration and review by our HR team, I'm pleased to offer you the position of financial consultant at our firm."

Manvi's eyes widened slightly in surprise and relief. "Oh, thank you so much, Aaravji!" she exclaimed, unable to hide her gratitude.

Aarav held up a hand, his demeanor becoming more formal. "But let me be clear, Manvi," he interjected firmly. "yeh faisla tumhari qualifications aur meri HR team ke approval ke baad liya gaya hai na ki hamare past ya koi personal relationship ke basis par"

Manvi nodded earnestly, understanding the distinction he was making. "Of course, Aaravji. I appreciate your transparency."

Aarav nodded, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Good. Welcome to the team, Manvi," he said, extending his hand across the desk.

Manvi shook his hand firmly, a sense of accomplishment and relief washing over her. "Thank you again, Aaravji. I won't let you down," she promised sincerely.

Aarav nodded once more, withdrawing his hand. "I trust you won't," he replied confidently.

As Manvi left Aarav's office, she felt a mix of emotions gratitude for the opportunity, determination to excel in her new role, and a newfound respect for Aarav's professionalism. She knew that despite their history, her merit had won her the job, and she was ready to prove herself worthy of Aarav's trust.

After offering Manvi the job and ensuring she understood it was based on her qualifications, not their personal history, Aarav leaned back in his chair with a sigh of relief. He watched Manvi leave his office, feeling a sense of satisfaction that he had managed to assist her without compromising her self-respect.

As he reflected on the interaction, Aarav couldn't help but feel a twinge of pride in Manvi's resilience and determination. He knew she had faced challenges and setbacks but had always maintained her dignity. Offering her the job was not just about fulfilling a vacancy; it was about recognizing her skills and giving her a chance to prove herself.

"Good decision," he murmured to himself, a small smile playing on his lips. "She'll do well here."

With that thought, Aarav turned back to his work, confident that he had made a positive impact on Manvi's life and hopeful for her success in the new role. He knew that by supporting her in this way, he had upheld both his professional standards and his commitment to helping others achieve their potential.

Khushi sat in her room, absorbed in her thoughts. News of her father, Aarav, offering a job to Manvi had left her intrigued and amused. She couldn't help but wonder if her father's frequent acts of kindness towards her meant something more than just friendship.

"Dadda aajkal dost ki madad bahut karne lage hai!" she exclaimed to herself, her eyes widening with playful speculation. "Oh my god... kahi unke dil mein dost ke liye feelings toh nahi aa rahe hai."

Aarav returned home later that evening, greeted by Khushi who hurriedly went to the kitchen to fetch him a glass of water. As he settled comfortably on the couch, Khushi approached with the glass in hand, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

Aarav smiled warmly at his daughter, taking the glass from her and drinking the water gratefully. Khushi then settled down beside him, resting her head on his lap. Aarav gently caressed her head and kissed her forehead lightly, cherishing their bond.

"Dadda, kaisa tha aaj aapka din?" Khushi asked, eager to engage him in conversation.

"Bahut acha, Khushi," he replied, his voice filled with contentment.

"Anything new?" she pressed further, curiosity bubbling inside her, particularly about Manvi.

"Nahi... as usual meri meetings aur jab tak daanto na koi kaam office mein hota nahi hai," he shared casually.

"Acha? Aur dost?" Khushi inquired slyly, unable to contain her curiosity about Manvi.

Aarav glanced down at her with a hint of surprise. "Tumhe kaise pata?" he asked, mildly amused by her intuitive nature.

"Dadda, aapki hi beti hun... mujhe sab pata hota hai," Khushi replied confidently, a playful smile on her face.

"Haan, Manvi ko office mein job offer ki hai maine! Kitni ziddi hai pata hai... Are, owner usey dhamki deke gaya hai do baar phir bhi apni zid pe adi rahi... Isliye mujhe advertise karna pada," he explained, a hint of exasperation in his tone.

Khushi giggled at her father's frustration. "Dadda, aajkal aap dost ki bahut chinta karne lage hai," she teased, poking fun at his newfound concern for Manvi.

"Nahi..." Aarav began to deny, but Khushi interrupted him playfully.

"Yes," she argued back, teasingly.

Aarav gave her a knowing look. "Dekho, I was concerned as a dost samjhi," he replied defensively.

Khushi burst into laughter. "Maine toh kaha hi nahi... Aapne hi waisa socha," she teased further, enjoying their banter.

Aarav sighed and lightly tapped her forehead in mock annoyance. "Movies dekhna band karo!" he teased back, a smile tugging at his lips despite himself.

Khushi continued to laugh, delighted by their playful exchange. She was pleased that her father had taken steps to help Manvi and secretly hoped it might lead to something more.

Aarav submerged himself in the tranquility of his indoor pool, the cool water enveloping him in a comforting embrace. The gentle ripples created by his movements reflected the turmoil of his thoughts. He couldn't shake off Khushi's words from earlier, her playful yet probing remarks about his increasing concern for Manvi.

As he glided through the water, his mind replayed the recent interactions with Manvi. Her presence in his life had evolved from a source of tension to one of unexpected comfort and understanding. He recalled the moments when he had offered her the job, wanting to help her without imposing, and wondered if his actions had conveyed more than mere friendship.

"Dadda, aajkal aap dost ki bahut chinta karne lage hai," Khushi's words echoed in his mind. He couldn't deny that his feelings towards Manvi had shifted subtly, driven by admiration for her resilience and appreciation for her character. Yet, he also felt the weight of past misunderstandings and the complexities of their intertwined lives.

As Aarav floated on his back, gazing up at the ceiling, he contemplated the possibility of a deeper connection with Manvi. He wondered if their renewed interactions could lead to something more profound, something that transcended their initial misunderstandings and insecurities.

The serenity of the water enveloped him, offering a moment of clarity amidst the swirling emotions. Aarav resolved to tread carefully, mindful of both Khushi's well-being and Manvi's feelings. He knew that navigating their evolving dynamics would require patience and understanding, but he was willing to explore what the future held, hopeful that his swimming thoughts would lead him to the right decisions.

As Manvi sat in her new office cubicle, her mind couldn't help but drift to thoughts of Aarav. She reflected on how their relationship had evolved over time, from initial misunderstandings to a tentative friendship that now seemed to be shifting once more.

She remembered the days when Aarav had been visibly insecure about their interactions, especially concerned about Khushi's affection shifting towards her. His protectiveness towards his daughter had sometimes created tension between them, despite Manvi's efforts to reassure him of her intentions.

"lekin pichle kuch dino se" Manvi thought to herself, her heart feeling unexpectedly light. She recalled moments when Aarav had shown kindness and concern towards her, offering her the job and supporting her without compromising her dignity. His softened demeanor had begun to stir feelings in her that she had long suppressed.

"kya wo badal rahe hai? ya main hi sab imagine kar rahi hun?" she wondered, uncertain yet hopeful. The way he had looked at her during the interview, the small gestures of understanding and respect they had all started to thaw the walls he had built around his heart.

Manvi leaned back in her chair, contemplating the complexity of their relationship. She knew there were still unresolved issues and misunderstandings between them, but she couldn't deny the warmth she felt whenever Aarav was near. His genuine concern for her well-being was touching, and she found herself wanting to reciprocate those feelings.

"shayad hamare beech kuch," she thought quietly, a small smile tugging at her lips. She knew it wouldn't be easy to navigate their emotions, especially with Khushi in the picture, but she was willing to take that leap of faith.

As she returned to her work, a sense of anticipation filled her. Whatever the future held, Manvi was ready to face it with an open heart, hoping that Aarav's changing behavior was a sign of deeper connection and possibly even a new beginning for them both.

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