The next two days at J & J Corporation felt like a silent dance, one Airam led with graceful, deliberate steps.
She didn't hide.
She didn't shrink.
She walked through the office halls with her head high, heels clicking like a heartbeat of assurance. When she spoke about the Acacia Project, her voice blossomed with passion.
"This structure isn't just steel and glass," she explained to two junior architects, her eyes glowing. "It's meant to breathe with the environment. It has a story, a rhythm, something people feel before they even step inside."
Her smile was bright, warm enough to draw the attention of half the floor. But the moment Harry stepped into the room, her smile dimmed not out of fear, but of choice.
She gathered her notes."Excuse me," she'd say coolly. "I have to review something."
And she left.
Every. Single. Time. Harry never tried to stop her. He simply watched her quietly, unblinking.
He admired the confidence she wore like armor. The elegance in her movements.The fire in her voice when she spoke about the project. Sometimes his friend whispered teasingly behind him, "Are you going to talk to her today?"Harry only sighed. "She's not ready."
But the truth sat heavier in his chest. He wasn't ready either. He doesn't know what to say. He did get close to them just to observe them, and that's the truth.
By the weekend, departure day finally arrived.
Airam stood at the door of her home, hugging the kids one by one as they tugged at her dress.
"Auntie Airam, don't forget to bring us something!" one begged.
"I'll bring you a whole suitcase," she laughed, kissing the top of his head.
Her mother cupped her cheeks. "You'll be fine, my child."
"I know," Airam whispered, confidence settling in her like a warm blanket. "I can do this."
She carried her small suitcase out the door, her heart fluttering with nerves. It would be her first time flying.
At the airport, she joined the long economy check-in line, humming softly to calm her excitement. She glanced around.
Then she froze. Harry stood across the hall, calmly handing his passport to a staff member in a separate line, a line with practically no one in it.
Of course. Of course, he wouldn't have to queue for hours like everyone else.
Airam's brows knitted together. When it was finally her turn, she leaned in and asked, "Excuse me, why is that check-in line different?"
The woman smiled politely. "Oh, that's for First Class passengers."
Airam blinked."First… Class?"
"Yes. Economy checks in here." She wasn't feeling small. She refused.
"Can I upgrade to First Class?" she asked. "How much will I pay?" The lady took her passport and typed quickly. Then her eyes widened. Her smile deepened.
"Well… look at that."
"Look at what?" Airam asked cautiously.
"You don't have to pay anything. You've been selected for a complimentary upgrade."
Airam blinked. "I… what? No. No, I'll pay."
The woman laughed softly. "Ma'am, it's free. You got a lucky number ticket. According to the system, you're entitled to a First-Class seat with no extra charge."
Airam stood there stunned, then slowly, beautifully smiled.
Finally. Finally, something was working in her favor.
"Enjoy your flight," the woman said, handing her the new boarding pass.
"I will," Airam replied, stepping away with a surge of pride in her chest.
As she headed toward security, her upgraded ticket in hand, she felt like the universe had whispered
This time, it's your turn.