Dawn of Spring

Chapter 15

Chapter 15

Vivaan slipped into the living room only to be greeted by the same sight. They were giggling like little children. What could be so funny? At that moment, he felt Gia was a much better company, but unfortunately, she was deep in slumber.

He shook his head. What was he thinking? His best friend conveniently ditched him for a girl, the same girl whose company he had started to find tolerable. In this defense, Vivaan hardly found anyone bearable. So finding Ahana's company appreciable was an achievement. She should be thankful for making it to his list. But here she was, least aware of his presence.

Never mind his feeling, claiming his determined self, he walked out and away from them. He could use some 'me-time.'

A few minutes later, Ahana found him sitting on the front porch, staring off at the beautiful garden blossoming with red roses and white lilies. Vivaan was too engrossed to notice her presence. The sight was pretty. The gardener devoted extra time and effort to keeping this flower looking its best, as it was his mother's favorite.

In this case, the honors should go to his father, who loves gardening and is a master at it. His mother has imposed some strict house rules, being punctual and clean. Being wealthy does not mean you can relax from hard work - in fact, it means you must work twice as hard - or so his mother believes.

Vivaan sighed, collecting himself.

Ahana stood there watching him curiously.

It was the start of spring. The wind had picked up since the morning, and she could feel its touch against her gentle skin, mussing her tresses into a chaotic mess. She pulled at her shirt to properly tuck it in before going outside. Her heart gave a heavy pull when she saw him standing there.

He looked so lonely, unlike his regular cocky self.

"Vivaan?"

At the sound of his name, he spun around. His face was a complex mix of pain and discomfort. He managed to school his features into something more neutral, but the melancholy swinging in his eyes remained.

"You okay?"

"Why wouldn't I be?"

The answer was final, leaving no room for debate, doubt, or further inquiry.

Ahana bit her lips. She decided to go for something light and easy. "Okaay! Mind if I sit?"

"Yes"

"Pardon me," she stopped in her tracks. Her bended knees halted abruptly at his answer.

Vivaan kept his gaze fixed on the flowers, not so much as giving her a sidelong glance. His voice was tinged with anger as he said, "I'd like to be alone."

Ahana could not pinpoint the reason troubling him.

"Did someone text you something harsh?"

"No," he snapped, angrier at himself than her over his irrational fear and desire.

"Did someone say something over a call?" She asked again.

"No," he repeated.

"Do you find taking care of a toddler a little overbearing?" Gia was not the reason. Ahana knew, but she had to make sure.

"What? No," he looked at her stupidly. "Stop asking silly questions."

"Then what's troubling you?" She asked softly.

"I just want to be alone." He snapped at her.

She nervously bit her lips as she watched Vivaan's back. Ahana stood there, unsure what to do or say, shifting her weight from foot to foot. Vivaan glanced over his shoulder and saw her tapping her legs out of nerves. He sighed loudly and shook his head, not understanding the duality he was feeling - wanting to be around her and wanting to stay away. He was afraid of the emotions he was starting to feel.