She was just breathing, But He made her live

Part 10

INT. CAR - NIGHT

Shravan is behind the wheel, driving through the night. The rest of the occupants, Naira, Tanya, and Kartik, have fallen asleep, exhaustion evident on their faces. Shravan steals a glance in the rearview mirror and notices Naira resting her head on Kartik's arm, a peaceful expression gracing her features. He can't help but smile, both surprised and touched by this unexpected connection.

SHRAVAN (whispering to himself)
Well, well... looks like someone has found some comfort in the most unexpected way.

He gently taps Tanya's shoulder to wake her up. She stirs from her slumber, rubbing her eyes, and then follows Shravan's gaze to Naira and Kartik. A similar warmth fills her heart as she witnesses the vulnerable side of Naira.

TANYA (whispering)
(sharing a knowing smile)
Seems like the walls around her heart are starting to crumble. Who would've thought?

Shravan nods in agreement, silently appreciating the unfolding bond between Naira and Kartik. With a renewed sense of purpose, he turns his attention back to the road.

SHRAVAN
(taking a deep breath)
I think it's time we find a hotel to rest for the night. We all need some sleep and a safe place to regroup.

Tanya takes out a map and studies it briefly.

TANYA
There's a hotel around 3 kilometers from here. We can head there.

Shravan navigates the car, driving for another 9-10 minutes until they reach the hotel. The tiredness of their journey lingers, but the prospect of a temporary refuge offers solace.

INT. HOTEL LOBBY - NIGHT

Shravan and Tanya step out of the car, stretching their limbs. Naira stirs awake as Tanya nudges her gently.

TANYA
Hey, sleepyhead. We've arrived. Time to get up.

Naira's eyes flutter open, and she realizes she had been resting on Kartik's arm. A hint of embarrassment washes over her face, quickly replaced by a guarded expression. Kartik also wakes up, their eyes meeting in an awkward yet intriguing moment of connection.

SHRAVAN
Alright, you two, Let's get down from the car.

Naira quickly composes herself, realizing the situation. Shravan hands Naira the car keys, and she takes charge, moving to park the car while the others proceed towards the hotel entrance.

EXT. HOTEL PARKING LOT - NIGHT

Naira parks the car and turns off the engine. Her hand instinctively reaches for the cigar, a familiar habit, but then she hesitates. Kartik, who is observing from the hotel gate, notices her internal struggle. A smile graces his face as he witnesses her throw the cigar away, a small yet significant act.

INT. HOTEL LOBBY - NIGHT

Kartik, Tanya, and Shravan enter the hotel lobby, looking around for a reception desk. Naira joins them shortly after, a newfound determination gleaming in her eyes.

KARTIK
I'm proud of you, Naira. Every step counts.

Naira's heart skips a beat as she locks eyes with Kartik. There is an unspoken understanding between them, a connection that transcends their circumstances. With a nod, she acknowledges his presence and follows the group.

INT. HOTEL LOBBY - NIGHT

As Naira, Shravan, Tanya, and Kartik enter the hotel lobby, a flicker of recognition flashes across the receptionist's face. Fear is evident in her eyes as she discreetly reaches for the phone, dialing a number. Naira, quick to sense trouble, narrows her eyes and realizes what is about to unfold.