"I don't want to become the kind of Adwait who would rip every single skin cell off any man who dares to have even the faintest touch upon your skin," He placed a soft, lingering kiss on her earlobe.
Nitya's heart raced in response to his words. Sh...
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I closed my eyes gently, letting the vibes wash over me, but my eyebrows couldn't help but scrunch up as this one scene kept playing in my head.
Niharika stepping into Adwait's room.
My throat tightened, and my heart felt heavy, like some deep ache had settled in. Why wouldn't this scene just fade away? I wanted it gone so bad, to clear my mind, but it clung on tight, refusing to let go.
The realization that they both resided in the same hotel, and perhaps even shared the same room, caused a whimper to escape my lips.
All through the night, tears just kept streaming down my face, and I lost count of how long I cried. I was so overwhelmed with sadness that I couldn't bring myself to pick up when he called again, scared of what he might ask. The whole night was tormented by thoughts of what they could be up to.
I felt a soft pat on my head, pulling me out of my thoughts. When I opened my eyes, there was the priest, looking at me with concern written all over his face.
"Cast your worries upon them, my child. They are the eternal guardians of the universe. Do not allow yourself to be tormented. They forever lend their ear to their beloved children," he assured, pointing towards the divine idols that stood before us.
My hand went up to my cheek, and I felt the dampness there. Didn't even realize I was crying.
I found myself drawn closer to the divine idols. "I don't need to say it out loud; you know what troubles me better than I do. Please show me the way. I'm lost and really need your guidance," I pleaded, hands clasped, eyes shut tight in grave prayer.
"Niu".
I heard my mother calling me out. I quickly opened my eyes and wiped away the tears that had blurred my vision.
"Maa, if you have finished, let's make our way home. I need to arrive at the university early," I moved towards her.
"Yes, indeed. However, let me introduce you to someone first," She replied, gently clasping my hand in hers.
Together, we walked towards the empty expanse within the temple. I looked over and saw a lady, probably around my mother's age, dressed in a bright green saree. Next to her was a man who looked about my age, maybe her son.
"Mrs. Sharma, this is my daughter, Nitya," my mother introduced, and I extended a warm greeting to the lady.
Drawing closer to me, she placed her hand upon my head. "God bless you. She is such a beautiful child, Kashi," she remarked to my mother, who responded with a smile.
I blushed and quietly muttered a 'thanks' to her for the nice words. Stepping back a bit, she introduced me to her son, who was giving me a friendly smile. I smiled back at him, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
"He is my son, Raj. He has recently assumed the managerial position in a renowned company," she exclaimed, her voice filled with pride.
I nodded in acknowledgment while Maa and Mrs. Sharma got into their conversation a bit away. A while later, I started sneaking peeks at my wristwatch, knowing I had to jet home soon to make it to university on time.
