The salt air of North Goa clung to the skin like a damp sheet. Aakash swirled the amber liquid in his glass, watching the ice cubes clink against the crystal. Beside him, Divya sat stiffly, her floral dress buttoned up to the collar, her eyes scanning the crowded beach bar with a mixture of curiosity and judgment. Across the small wooden table, Rohit and Shreya looked equally poised, though Rohit had a predatory glint in his eyes that Aakash recognized.

"You have to try the seafood platter here, Aakash. It is the best in the city," Rohit said, leaning back in his chair.