"What the hell is happening? Don't you know who is coming to our studio today? It's The Prime Minister of India. Hurry up, you morons." A 35-year-old woman was yelling at her subordinates to make arrangements properly.

On the other hand, every department in the 'Fast News' was gearing up for the interview when a 20-year-old boy walked inside the office. He was the newly appointed intern who had come to the headquarters of one of the reputed news channels in Mumbai, India - Fast News.

It was a dream come true moment for Aarav Khanna who after completing his journalism graduation, had an opportunity to work as an intern with Fast News for six months.

He entered the office and went to the reception. The receptionist asked him to wait inside one of the conference rooms where a few other interns like Aarav were waiting.

"Our star reporter Vikram Bhatia will soon be interviewing the Honorable PM. Mind you, ours is the only channel with whom the Honorable PM agreed to an interview." The reporter was boasting about their channel in the news telecasted on the TV.

Everyone was watching the news (coz they didn't have any other choice), but Aarav's vision was fixed on the picture that flashed on the top right corner of the screen. Yes, he was Vikram Bhatia, one of the most promising journalists in India who had won many prestigious awards in just five years of his career as a political journalist.

Vikram was a role model for many upcoming journalists like Aarav. His handsomeness was like an additional perk to his awe-inspiring career. While Aarav was busy thinking about Vikram, a lady walked inside the conference room.

"So, you are the new interns, right?"

"Yes madam" Everyone said in unison and stood up.

"Okay guys, we have no time for formal introductions and all. Just to let you know that I am the chief editor of Fast News, Mihika Tanna. I'll call out your names and you will report to your concerned senior reporters in the newsroom."

After allocating everyone their duties, the lady finally told Aarav to follow her as he would be reporting directly to Vikram. Aarav's heart raced as he entered the bustling newsroom. His gaze was immediately drawn to the charismatic star reporter who was busy fixing his mic and make-up before the interview.

"Vikram, he is your intern. Tell him if you need anything." The chief editor said and rushed out of the room.

"Good morning Sir. I am Aarav. I am one of your biggest fans." Aarav said and extended his hand.

"Call me Vikram, not Sir. For now, just go and stand in that corner. Don't disturb me till the interview is over. Is that clear?" Vikram went away without a handshake.

Aarav felt a bit disheartened. He had imagined this moment several times in his mind, but never thought it would be like this. He had always dreamt of a memorable first meet with his idol, but not all dreams come true, right? So, Aarav had no other option but to accept the reality and stood in the corner as per Vikram's suggestion.

Finally, after an hour the PM left the studio along with his bodyguards and the entire newsroom heaved a sigh of relief. Everyone applauded Vikram who solely managed the interview amazingly.

Vikram thanked everyone and was about to go to the cafeteria for lunch. But, while taking off his mic his gaze fell on a boy who was standing in the corner patiently. Vikram indicated to Aarav to come near him.

"By the way, I feel like I have seen you before," Vikram said while handing over the mic to the support staff.

"I have attended almost every event and lecture of yours, Vikram Sir. The symposium with young journalists at Wilson College, face-to-face talk with retired political journalists and…"

"Oh My! Vikram, you surely have found a fanboy for you." The chief editor who was standing next to Vikram said and cut Aarav in between.

Vikram smirked at his chief editor's comment and asked Aarav to join him for lunch. Aarav immediately agreed and both of them went to the cafeteria. Aarav couldn't help but notice how everyone stared at him while walking behind Vikram. He also felt like some of them giggled and gossiped with each other.

"If you are wondering why people were staring at you, it was because they all know that I am gay. Maybe till now, they must have imagined us in different poses as well." Vikram said while sitting on one of the tables in the cafeteria.

"But what's the big deal about being gay? Your life is your choice. Who are they to pinpoint at you?" Aarav said and brought a smile to Vikram's breathtakingly handsome face.

"Thanks, Aarav, but not everyone is like you. By the way, are you single?"

"I beg your pardon"

"Oh! I am just asking because if you are in a relationship, you better break up now rather than in a few weeks. Our job is pretty demanding and you will realize it in a few days."

"Does that mean, you too are single?" Aarav asked and the next moment felt like banging his head on the nearby wall for being so direct in their first ever interaction.

"For now, simply remember to work hard during these six months." Vikram asked while eating his favourite chicken biryani.

"Yes Sir, I mean Vikram. I'll never let you down." Aarav said and finished his homemade lunch.

As days passed, Aarav got used to the fast-paced world of breaking news and tight deadlines. Vikram noticed the young intern's dedication and curiosity. They began working closely on stories, sharing insights and Aarav couldn't help but find himself falling deeper into admiration for Vikram's talent and charm. What began as a mere mentorship blossomed into an unexpected connection within a few months.

Both of them realized that this connection was beyond a superior and intern or even beyond friendship. The way they cared for each other, the way they helped each other even without asking for it, and the way they felt comfortable and at the same time a bit nervous around each other, conveyed that between the race of headlines, their heartbeats had already collided.

Finally, after a few days of continuous work, Vikram and Aarav got a day off.

"Now I understand the importance of a day off. How good it feels to know that tomorrow I can just be in bed for the entire day." Aarav said while sipping coffee at a sea-facing coffee shop.

Vikram just laughed his heart out after hearing what Aarav said.

"What's your plan for tomorrow, Vikram?"

"Nothing great. I'll probably go to the office and stay inside the air-conditioned newsroom for the entire day without any fieldwork." Vikram said and sipped hot chocolate.

"Are you mad? Why do you want to go to the office tomorrow? You can spend some time with your mother. In the last few days, I have seen your mom calling you constantly and asking you when you would be home." Aarav said.

Vikram just smirked at this and didn't say anything for some time. Aarav was confused if he made a mistake by saying what he said. After a few minutes, Vikram gathered himself from the chain of thoughts running erratically through his mind and looked at Aarav.

"Not everyone is lucky to have an understanding family like you, Aarav. I too like you come from a middle-class family. However, the day my parents came to know that I am gay, they started treating me like an untouchable."

Vikram saw how Aarav was shocked to hear what he said. He continued drinking his hot chocolate and asked Aarav to chill. Vikram didn't want to spoil his intern's mood so he ordered walnut brownies for both of them as a treat. Both had a good time together enjoying the cool evening breeze at the sea-facing coffee shop and went back to their respective homes.

The next day as Aarav had planned to lie down in his bed and sleep out the entire day didn't happen. Since last night he couldn't forget Vikram's saddened expressions when he talked about his parents' disapproval of him being gay. Aarav decided to do something and called Vikram at 7:00 am.

"Weren't you going to rest today? Why are you calling me so early, baby boy?" Vikram said in a sleepy tone.

"Vikram, I have sent you the location of my house. You are coming to my place for lunch today and we are going to spend the entire day together. Is that clear? So get up, get ready and I'll be waiting for you."

"Oye, did you forget that I am your senior?"

"Not at all, but today I am not your intern. It's a friend calling another friend to hang out. So, get going." Aarav said

"Are you sure you are my friend? I believe we are much more than that." Vikram said

There was dead silence over the call as Vikram clean-bowled Aarav with his question.

"Okay fine. I'll be there as soon as possible. It's been so long that I want to talk about something personal. Cya soon." Vikram hung up the phone after listening to a small hmm from Aarav.

Vikram smiled and liked the way Aarav talked to him with authority. Not to forget that he simply adored the way Aarav got shy when Vikram mentioned being more than friends.

Aarav was busy preparing for lunch while constantly controlling the butterflies that were giving him goosebumps. Suddenly his doorbell rang and he quickly looked at the wall clock. It was merely 9:30 am and he wasn't expecting anyone so soon.

Aarav opened the door and was shocked to see Vikram in a biker jacket with his helmet in one hand. Vikram directly barged inside Aarav's house and sat comfortably on the sofa in the living room.

"Thank you for coming early. Now help me in the kitchen." Aarav said and pulled Vikram inside the kitchen.

"Let me tell you I am a very good eater but an equally bad cook," Vikram said while wearing the kitchen apron.

"You can do the chopping and other side jobs. Leave the cooking to me. I have learnt to be a master chef in the past three years." Aarav said and they both worked together to cook a delicious meal.

"So you are a perfect wifey. Am I right, baby boy?" Vikram asked and saw a slight blush on Aarav's cheeks.

"Help me with these veggies," Aarav said and handed over the vegetables for chopping to Vikram.

Their hands brushed while doing so and Vikram smirked when Aarav took his hands out of Vikram's.

Vikram was surprised to see how efficiently Aarav was cooking and simply followed his instructions. It felt strange to be on the other side as every day Vikram was the one to give instructions to Aarav at the office.

Within two hours the lunch was ready and they both had it while watching one of their favorite Bollywood movies. Now it was already 6 pm and Vikram thought of going back to his house.

"Oh! Before you go back, let me introduce you to my parents." Aarav said and got up from the sofa in the living room.

Vikram was confused, but he just went along with Aarav into a small prayer room. He saw some idols of Hindu Gods and a photo frame of Aarav's parents beautifully smiling at the onlookers.

Aarav made Vikram sit on the floor after putting on the floor mat and looked at his parents' photo frame with heartfelt emotions.

"Ma, papa! Sorry, we got so busy cooking and watching movies that we couldn't come to meet you earlier. By the way, he is Vikram. My senior and my idol. Yes, he is one whom I talk about every day." Aarav said and pointed towards Vikram.

Vikram was speechless. He just couldn't imagine how lonesome Aarav was in his life at such a young age without his parents by his side. Vikram smiled with tear-filled eyes and joined his hands to offer his prayers to Aarav's parents.

"Hello, Aunty and Uncle. I wish I could meet you in person, but never mind. I am Vikram, your son's senior at Fast News. That's a different thing that he doesn't consider me as his superior anymore. But truly, your son is a gem of a person."

Vikram said and put a hand on Aarav's shoulder.

"I promise you that as long as I am alive, Aarav will never be alone," Vikram said and gave a pat on Aarav's back.

"Ma, papa, you both have a special connection with God, so please request him to be kind to Vikram so that the way you both accepted me open-heartedly as gay, even his parents do," Aarav said and astonished Vikram.

Vikram simply looked at Aarav with pure admiration. How can someone be so selfless? Many such thoughts lingered in Vikram's mind and his eyes conveyed them easily to Aarav.

Vikram said goodbye to Aarav's parents and hurriedly got up. He then went to the living room and had a glass of water. Vikram always did that to calm himself when he thought his emotions were going to take over his mindfulness.

"Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable. It's just that I wanted to…" Aarav couldn't complete his sentence as Vikram hugged him tightly.

"Thank you Aarav for coming into my life and letting me know how precious it feels to have someone like you around. I know you may feel it's abrupt but I want to confess something." Vikram broke the hug but still had his hands wrapped around Aarav's waist.

Aarav simply looked at Vikram and asked him to say without any inhibition.

Vikram mustered the courage to share his true feelings. Vulnerable yet determined, he confessed his admiration for Aarav.

"I truly love you, Aarav. I know you are my intern, but I just had to say it. It's been a long time since I wanted to say it to you."

"It's been a while since I wanted to hear this from you, Vikram," Aarav said and brought a smile to Vikram's face.

"But, why did you suddenly confess your feelings?" Aarav asked

"Because I realized that God had gifted me with a pure soul and I didn't want to lose him. The way you requested uncle and aunty for me, was too precious and selfless."

"But do you think this relationship is possible, Vikram? I mean, you are one of the top journalists and I am just an intern."

"Aarav, my job is just a part of my life, but you are the heart of my life. And tell me one thing, are you gonna be an intern throughout your life? No, right?"

Aarav felt relieved after hearing Vikram's heartfelt confession and the way he assured him about the future of their relationship. It made him certain that Vikram too, like him, was serious about their relationship.

Aarav hugged Vikram and said, "You don't know how long I have waited for this. I love you too, Vikram."

Both of them were on top of the world that day when their bond got an official name. Yes, they agreed to become boyfriends but decided to keep it under wraps from the office people.

Their love story unfolded within the whirlwind of news reporting. Their shared glances and stolen moments escaped the notice of their colleagues. Mumbai, with its kaleidoscope of cultures and traditions, embraced their connection and provided a sanctuary for love to bloom amidst the clamour of a bustling metropolis.

In the weeks that followed, Aarav and Vikram had to strike a balance between their love and professionalism. They learned to cherish stolen moments in the crowded newsroom and sought refuge in the hidden corners of Mumbai, away from prying eyes.

Amidst the chaos of breaking news and editorial meetings, Aarav discovered the layers beyond Vikram's public persona. The fearless reporter revealed vulnerability, dreams, and fears, creating a bond that transcended admiration. They became each other's confidantes, supporting one another through the highs and lows of both professional and personal realms.

As the six-month internship neared its end, Aarav and Vikram faced the daunting prospect of navigating a future beyond the newsroom.

On an evening when Vikram and Aarav were travelling in Mumbai local train from Churchgate to Andheri, Vikram noticed that Aarav was lost in his thoughts.

"What's the problem, baby boy?"

"Vikram, my internship will end next Friday and then what are we supposed to do?"

"Let's elope and hide away from this ruthless world that doesn't allow lovers to stay together. Let's go to some place where there won't be any inhibitions stopping us from doing what we truly desire."

"Vikram, can you please talk without any melodrama."

"Aarav, just because your internship is ending, it's not the end of the world. We can still meet each other and…"

"But nothing would be like the way it is."

"Okay, I agree, we won't be able to meet daily like we do now, but it's not like we would be poles apart. We will figure out something."

Vikram assured Aarav who simply sighed and looked out of the window. Meanwhile, a couple came and sat in front of them. The girl held her boyfriend's hand tightly and leaned her head on his shoulder comfortably while looking into his cell phone.

Vikram looked at Aarav and noticed a sad look on his face. The way Aarav was looking at the couple disturbed Vikram. The couple got down after a few stations and Aarav again looked outside the window.

"Why is my baby so silent?" Vikram went close to Aarav and whispered in his ears.

Aarav nodded without saying anything and continued looking outside. Vikram held Aarav's hand and squeezed it lightly. Vikram's eyes conveyed his true love for Aarav which Aarav felt through his heartfelt touch. Aarav was about to put his other hand over Vikram's but an old uncle came and sat in front of them.

He looked at the way Vikram and Aarav had held hands and gave a disgusted look to both of them. Aarav immediately took his hand off and got up from his seat to alight at the next approaching station. Thankfully it was Andheri station wherein Aarav and Vikram wanted to alight. Throughout the walk towards Aarav's home, he was dead silent. He didn't even let Vikram hold his hand and quickly ran inside his apartment as soon as they reached.

Vikram sighed and left for his home. He couldn't sleep properly till the time Aarav texted him Good night. Vikram then replied and slept with a smile on his face. At least his baby wasn't angry with him.

The week passed and today was the last day of Aarav's internship. All of his colleagues prepared farewell gifts for him and other interns. Everyone was present in the newsroom except the person who meant the world to Aarav.

Vikram had to go on the field to cover an important political rally. Aarav was extremely angry with his boyfriend but couldn't reveal it to others. He fake smiled at all others, quickly packed his stuff and bid adieu to his colleagues. While Aarav was about to leave, one of the office boys came to him and said that he had been called into the studio.

Aarav was utterly confused as to who must have called him in the studio after his farewell. He went inside the studio to witness complete darkness.

"Did anyone pull a prank on me?" Aarav thought after entering the studio.

Suddenly, he heard a sound and the studio's main door was closed. The pitch darkness made it impossible for Aarav to move and out of nowhere, he felt a touch on his right palm. Someone held his hand delicately and made him walk a few steps forward.

After a few seconds that mystery person left Aarav's hand and there was a beam of light flashed across the room.

"Just like this beam of light, you entered my life out of nowhere and took away my darkness.

Just like this beam of light, you made me believe that if we are together we can fight back any amount of darkness in this world."

Suddenly the lights in the studio switched on and Aarav's lost smile was back on his cute face. He saw the person he was waiting for, standing in front of him with a bouquet of red roses.

Vikram slowly moved towards Aarav, handed him the bouquet and knelt in front of him.

"Aarav, here I offer myself to you for a lifetime. Would you do me the favour of accepting me as your legally wedded husband?"

Vikram pulled out a diamond ring from his pocket and offered it to Aarav.

Aarav looked at Vikram with tear-filled eyes while accepting the ring. Vikram then got up and put the ring on Aarav's ring finger.

"Now you can lean on my shoulder anytime and anywhere you want. You don't have to walk away from people's unpleasant glares." Vikram said and held Aarav's face delicately in his hands.

Vikram wiped the tears on Aarav's face and brought his face close to him. Vikram was about to put his lips on Aarav, but suddenly all of his colleagues walked in and the couple had to stand a bit apart.

Everyone celebrated their union by bringing in a cake that had the message 'Love Wins All Odds'. Aarav's gaze fell on two people who were standing at a corner witnessing the frenzy in the newsroom. It didn't take much time for Aarav to realize that those two people were Vikram's parents.

Aarav went near Vikram and asked him to come with him. Both of them approached Vikram's parents who were standing with a blank expression on their faces.

"Ma, Papa. I have finally got my happiness. Please don't ruin my happy moment." Vikram said.

"Sir, Ma'am. I love your son very much and I promise to love him till my last breath. Please give us your blessings for a bright future together." Aarav joined his hands and requested Vikram's parents.

Vikram's parents looked at each other and smiled. Vikram's mother then extended her hand and brought Aarav close to her.

"Thank you Aarav for making my son the happiest man in the past six months. Please continue to love him and may you both get all the happiness in the world." Vikram's mother said and hugged Aarav.

Vikram looked at his dad who was looking at him with a smile. He put a hand on Vikram's shoulder and gave a pat on his back.

"Go ahead, my boy. A wonderful life is waiting for you with open arms. Live it together."

Aarav and Vikram's happiness knew no bounds. They both looked at each other and held hands.

"Oh come on guys. That's so boring. We need to see your chemistry. Come on, kiss each other." Vikram's boss and the chief editor Mihika Tanna said.

All other staff members yelled at the top of their voices and encouraged them to kiss. Vikram's parents smiled and encouraged them too.

Vikram grabbed Aarav close to him and kissed him on the lips. Everyone cheered and clapped for the couple. Through the kiss Vikram and Aarav conveyed how much they loved each other and how happy they were now that they had got approval for their relationship from their loved ones.

"Let's continue creating our story, unbound by societal expectations" Vikram said after breaking the kiss and holding Aarav in his arms.

"Sure, hubby. Anything for you." Aarav said and brought a smile to Vikram's face.

Finally, Aarav and Vikram's love story transcended the confines of the newsroom. As they embraced the uncertainty of the future, Fast News channel's office and the vibrant city of Mumbai stood witness to a love that defied norms. It reminded them that there still exists a world that believes in true love and celebrates love in all its forms.

In a city that thrived on stories, Aarav and Vikram's love story became an unspoken narrative, transcending societal norms. Their journey was a testament to the power of love and authenticity, a beacon in the sprawling expanse of Mumbai where dreams and realities converged.

                    ----The End---- (Not at all)

💜 A beginning of a beautiful life OFFICIALLY TOGETHER 💜

A big hug and thank you to all those who read the complete story. Please vote, share and let me know your views on the story through comments.