After check-in, the team gathered in the lobby to review the schedule. Airam stood slightly apart from the group, absorbing everything with sharp focus. Even after hours of travel, her eyes were bright, full of purpose.
Harry eventually walked in.
He didn't speak.
He didn't need to.
The room noticed him before he even reached the group, calm, composed, expensive from head to toe.
Airam didn't even look at him. She discussed the project points with the others, smiling, confident, and asking smart questions. And Harry… watched.
The way she listened.
The way she gestured with passion.
The way she owned every inch of space without trying.
He admired it silently.
When he finally approached the circle, Airam instantly stepped back, creating distance like it were a reflex.
Joe whispered, half-amused, "She's avoiding you again."
Harry didn't answer. But he did glance at Airam just for a moment, then looked away before anyone noticed.
Except Airam.
She noticed everything.
That night, the hotel hosted a welcome dinner for the project team.
The dining hall was warm, elegant, filled with soft music and sparkling lights.
Airam arrived in a simple but graceful dress, nothing fancy, yet she looked effortlessly radiant. She laughed easily with her colleagues, her energy filling the space.
Harry sat at the head table.
Of course.
When Airam walked in, his gaze drifted toward her without meaning to.
She caught it.
Rolled her eyes.
And purposely sat at the farthest table.
Throughout dinner, she talked about Homalia's culture, asked thoughtful questions about the project, and encouraged nervous team members. Her leadership spirit shone naturally, without authority or title.
And Harry?
He said little… but watched a lot.
Every time she smiled, a small, barely-there smile tugged at the corner of his lips.
After dinner, Airam returned to her room. The balcony overlooked the entire city, glowing lights, quiet streets, and the distant sound of gentle music.
She took a deep breath.
This place felt like a dream she never knew she wanted.
Her phone buzzed.
A message from her sisters,
"Send pictures!"
Airam chuckled and took selfies with the night sky behind her. She captioned one,
"Your girl is international now. Watch me become rich."
She was about to go inside when she heard a soft voice from above, faint but familiar.
She froze.
Looked up.
Harry was on his balcony, the one directly above hers, leaning slightly on the railing, staring at the city.
He didn't notice her at first.
Of all the balconies in this huge hotel… why this one? she groaned internally.
He finally glanced down. Their eyes met.
Silence.
Heavy.
Unintentional.
Charged.
Harry gave a small, almost shy nod.
Airam narrowed her eyes and turned around immediately, walking inside and closing the curtain.
Behind her curtain, she muttered,
"No. Nope. Not starting any balcony drama. Not in another country. Not with him."
But her racing heartbeat betrayed her.
And upstairs, Harry stood still, surprised at how disappointed he felt when she disappeared from view.