Lunch.

The midday sun streamed through the windows of the Bendilani Group headquarters, casting a warm glow over the bustling cafeteria. Mark stood at the counter, placing an order for two takeaway meals—one for himself and one for Anushka. He tapped his fingers lightly on the counter as he waited, his mind drifting to the morning's events and the way Anushka had finally softened in his arms. A small smile played on his lips as he thought about her, his heart swelling with affection.

Just as the cafeteria staff handed him the two neatly packed meals, a familiar voice called out from behind him. "Hey, big bro!"

Mark turned, his smile widening as he saw Jacqueline approaching. She looked as polished as ever, her tailored blazer and sleek ponytail giving her an air of authority, but her playful grin reminded him of the sister he'd grown up with.

"Jacqueline," Mark greeted, his tone warm. "What are you doing down here? Don't you have a mini cafeteria in your office?"

Jacqueline shrugged, her smirk widening. "I do, but I like coming down here sometimes. It's nice to be around people, you know? Plus, the food smells better when you're surrounded by the chaos of the cafeteria."

Mark chuckled, shaking his head. "You're such a people person. I don't know how you do it."

Jacqueline's eyes flicked to the two takeaway packs in his hands, and her smirk turned into a knowing grin. "So, I see you and Anushka are officially the talk of the building. Everyone's buzzing about you two. It's kind of adorable, honestly."

Mark rolled his eyes, though his smile didn't fade. "Yeah, I guess so. It's not like we planned for it to be this big thing, but… well, you know how it is."

Jacqueline raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing. "Oh, I know. You've always had a way of making headlines, big bro. But seriously, I'm happy for you. Anushka's great, and you two seem really good together."

Mark's expression softened, his tone sincere. "Thanks, J. That means a lot."

Jacqueline's grin returned, and she gave him a playful nudge. "Just don't let it go to your head, okay? I don't need you getting all sappy on me."

Mark laughed, shaking his head. "Don't worry. I'll leave the sappiness to you."

Jacqueline rolled her eyes, but her smile didn't waver. "Alright, big bro. I'll let you get back to your lunch date. Don't keep her waiting too long."

Mark nodded, holding up the takeaway packs. "Thanks. I'll see you later, J."

As Mark headed for the elevator, Jacqueline watched him go for a moment before turning to find a spot in the cafeteria. She spotted a table with a group of girls from the marketing team and made her way over, her confident stride turning heads as she went.

"Mind if I join you?" Jacqueline asked, her tone friendly but commanding.

The girls looked up, their eyes widening slightly at the sight of Jacqueline Bendilani standing at their table. "Of course!" one of them said quickly, scooting over to make room.

Jacqueline sat down, her presence immediately commanding the table. The girls exchanged excited glances, clearly thrilled to have the company's CEO joining them for lunch. As they chatted, Jacqueline couldn't help but overhear snippets of their conversation—most of which revolved around Mark and Anushka.

"Did you see them in the lobby this morning?" one of the girls whispered, her tone giddy. "They were holding hands! It's so cute!"

"I know!" another girl chimed in. "And did you see the way he looked at her in the elevator? It's like they're in their own little world."

Jacqueline smirked to herself, her amusement evident. She didn't say anything, but she couldn't help feeling a sense of pride. Her big brother had finally found someone who made him happy, and it was clear that Anushka felt the same way.

---

Meanwhile, back in the office, Anushka was sitting at her desk, her fingers flying across the keyboard as she worked on a report. The morning's events had left her feeling a mix of emotions, but she was determined to focus on her work. Just as she was about to dive deeper into her task, there was a soft knock on the door.

"Come in," Anushka called, her tone professional but welcoming.

The door opened, and Stacey stepped inside, her expression friendly as always. "Hey, Anushka. Just wanted to check in and see if you're coming down for lunch."

Anushka smiled, shaking her head. "Not today. Mark's gone to pick up some food for us. We'll be having lunch in the office."

Stacey's eyes lit up with admiration, and she nodded. "That's so sweet. You two really are the perfect couple."

Anushka's cheeks flushed, but she didn't deny it. Instead, she offered a small smile. "Thanks, Stacey. That means a lot."

Stacey grinned, her tone playful. "Well, enjoy your lunch."

Anushka laughed, the sound light and carefree. "Well nice lunch too."

As Stacey left the office, Anushka leaned back in her chair, her mind drifting to Mark. Despite her initial frustration, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment. He was stubborn, yes, but he was also kind, loyal, and fiercely protective of her. And as much as she hated to admit it, she loved him for it.

A few minutes later, the door opened again, and Mark walked in, the two takeaway packs in hand. "Lunch is served," he announced, his tone cheerful as he set the food on the table.

Anushka smiled, her heart swelling with affection as she looked at him. "Thanks, Mark."

Mark grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Anything for you, Ruhi."

As they sat down to eat, the world outside their office faded away, leaving just the two of them, together. And for now, that was enough.