Later that afternoon, Arjun Sharma returned to his Bandra apartment, his youthful vigor evident in his brisk stride. Ananya Desai, setting the lunch table, glanced up and paused, her eyes widening. "Uncle, you look… younger today. Did you wash your face or something?" she said, half-teasing, half-curious. Arjun chuckled, running a hand through his slightly thicker hair, his Physical Age of 37 enhancing his energy. "Just feeling good, Ananya," he said, his 73-kg frame and rejuvenated metabolism radiating vitality. The table was laden with dishes tailored to his tastes—fried bhindi, aloo matar, chicken curry, and a steaming bowl of vegetable soup—the aromas filling the cozy apartment.
Arjun took a bite of the chicken curry, the meat tender and perfectly spiced. "Ananya, this chicken is incredible," he said, leaning forward. "What's your secret?" Ananya blushed, stirring the soup. "I marinate it with yogurt and spices, then cook it slow," she said shyly. Arjun nodded, impressed by her domestic skills and positive attitude, a stark contrast to Priya's disengagement. "You're a natural," he said, boosting her confidence and raising her favorability by 1% to 32%. The Midlife Mastery System buzzed silently, noting their growing bond.
Arjun and Ananya ate heartily, savoring basmati rice and nibbling D-Mart chocolates. His rejuvenated metabolism kicked in, his body fat dropping to 17%, his frame leaner in his reflection. After lunch, Arjun joined Ananya at the sink, washing dishes side by side, their easy chatter fostering warmth. "You don't have to help, Uncle," Ananya said, but her smile said otherwise. Arjun shrugged. "Feels right," he replied, the clink of plates grounding their connection.
Priya Sharma, sulking on the couch over Arjun's earlier scolding, munched tandoori chicken snacks, her bandaged leg propped up. "So many D-Mart snacks," she muttered, eyeing the chocolate wrappers. "You're overdoing it, Dad." Arjun frowned, wiping his hands. "Watch the snacking, Priya. You'll regret the weight gain," he warned, his tone firm. Priya scoffed, returning to her phone, her entitlement grating against Ananya's effort.
Eager to unwind, Arjun gestured to his Samsung TV, a sleek addition to the living room. "Let's play a game, Ananya. Ever tried 'It Takes Two'?" Priya, still glued to her phone, waved him off. "Not interested, Dad." Ananya hesitated, her fingers twisting. "I've never played games, Uncle. I'll be terrible." Arjun grinned, handing her a controller. "You'll learn. It's fun."
In the cooperative game, one has to, navigating the first level's whimsical obstacles—a couple's teamwork mirrored in their characters. Ananya's nervousness faded as she followed Arjun's cues, dodging traps and solving puzzles. "Jump now, Ananya!" Arjun called, laughing as they cleared a hurdle. The two-hour session flew by, their synergy smooth despite the game's awkward couple-centric plot. Ananya's patience and willingness to learn shone, contrasting with typical gamer frustrations. "You're a quick study," Arjun said, impressed, as they high-fived.
At 3 PM, Arjun glanced at his watch, the system buzzing: "Task Progress: Help Ananya secure a student loan. Continue for 13 days to unlock full rewards." He stood, grabbing his keys. "Ananya, let's confirm your cashier job at D-Mart and hit the State Bank of India for your loan application. They will close soon." Ananya nodded, her gratitude evident. "I'm ready, Uncle." Priya's sulking and Rohan Malhotra's looming visit faded as Arjun focused on Ananya's future, Bandra's vibrant streets fueling his resolve.
Attribute Panel:
Height: 185 cm (+)
Physical Age: 37
Wealth: ₹31,01,390
Strength: 72
Spirit: 66
Props: Knowledge Scroll=6, Electrolyte Drink=7, Protein Shake=2
Daily Tasks: Nutritious breakfast, gym check-in, Ola rides, Efficient reading
Ananya's Favorability: 32% (+1%)