It`s not just young nymphets who latch on to mega heroes for a possible entry into films. Men are no less ambitious. Or shall we call it that they are as unscrupulous? Praveen Dabas who has a number of forgettable serials, some great brand endorsements and a film role in Monsoon Wedding, is the new man in Preity Zinta`s life.

The giggly actress denies any affair though, "He is just a co-star and we are buddies," she brushes aside the rumors doing the rounds. But the young actor who has also dabbled in theatre, is playing an important role in the Zinta starrer Karz being shot in Toronto currently. Whenever the Rajput actress has no work, she is found shopping, eating out or shopping with him. Her close friends insist she is pretty serious of the Australian boyfriend kept under wraps for long and that Praveen is "just a pal."

A girl is entitled to many friends we are aware Ms. Zinta. But do close friends also play footsie under the table at a restaurant, which is what you were caught unawares doing one late evening?