Shubham usually feels relief at waking up alone. It isn't often that he allows one of his sex partners to stay the night. But this hadn't been a one-night stand, it had been Aditi in his bed, and for some inexplicable reason he feels hollow to find space next to him empty and the sheets cool. Her perfume still clings to the pillow next to his head. Instinctually though, he knows she has to be in his house somewhere.

His eyebrows furrow when he notices the floor-length cream curtains billowing in front of the French doors to his balcony. He can't recall leaving them open last night. Confused he drags himself out of bed, picks his boxer briefs off the floor, and slips them on before padding over to investigate. Drawing the curtains back his heart lurches at the sight of Aditi relaxing poolside, her long, tan legs lazily stretching out in front of her on the Chaise Lounge. Startled by the noise of him pushing open the door, she twists to look back at him, smiling.