She was just breathing, But He made her live

Part 14

INT. CAR - NIGHT

The awkwardness in the air is palpable after the unexpected kiss. Kartik and Naira exchange furtive glances, unsure of how to navigate this new territory. Kartik's regret lingers, a churning mixture of emotions.

KARTIK (whispering)
Naira, I... I'm sorry. I shouldn't have...

Naira's soft voice interrupts him, her eyes heavy with exhaustion.
NAIRA (drowsy)

It's okay, Kartik. I am not drunk. (cutely)
Kartik led out a chuckle.

Their conversation is cut short as they notice Shravan and Tanya exchanging knowing glances from the other car, a look of realization on their faces. Kartik and Naira share an awkward smile before turning their attention back to the road.

INT. CAR - LATER

The drive to the hotel is accompanied by the steady hum of the engine and the soft breaths of the sleeping Naira. Kartik sneaks glances at her now and then, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions.

Kartik's internal monologue echoes through his mind.

KARTIK (thinking)
What have I done? I shouldn't have kissed her, especially when she was drunk. She needed comfort, not this added confusion.

He continues to drive, lost in his thoughts, occasionally stealing glances at Naira. Meanwhile, Shravan and Tanya's car is following closely, their eyes occasionally flicking to Kartik's car.

INT. HOTEL LOBBY - NIGHT

Kartik parks the car in the hotel parking lot, gently shaking Naira awake. She stirs and blinks her eyes open, disoriented for a moment.

KARTIK (softly)
Naira, we've reached the hotel.

Naira rubs her eyes and stretches, yawning sleepily.

NAIRA (drowsy)
Oh, right. Thanks, Kartik.

Kartik helps her out of the car, his touch gentle as he guides her towards the hotel entrance.

INT. HOTEL CORRIDOR - NIGHT

Kartik stands outside Naira's hotel room, contemplating what to do next. He can hear the faint sound of music and laughter coming from the other rooms, a stark contrast to the emotions that are swirling within him.

INT. NAIRA'S HOTEL ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Kartik gently pushes open the door.

Gently, he lays Naira down on the bed, arranging the pillows to ensure her comfort. He watches her for a moment, a mixture of emotions swirling in his eyes. Her vulnerability, her strength, and the pain she carries – they all seem to be laid bare in this moment.

Kartik reaches for the sheet and carefully pulls it over Naira, tucking her in as thought she's the most precious thing in the world. His touch is tender, almost reverent, as he ensures she's warm and comfortable.

As he stands up to leave, he hears a faint sound – Naira's voice, soft and almost pleading.

NAIRA (murmuring)
Please... Kartik... don't go...

Kartik turns back, his gaze locked onto Naira's form. He moves back to the bedside, taking a seat on the edge. He reaches out and gently brushes a strand of hair away from her face, his touch soothing.

Kartik's voice is barely above a whisper, a soothing presence in the stillness of the room.

KARTIK (softly)
I'm here, Naira. I won't go anywhere.