Saathiya Mere 💕

Acceptance - Chapter 28

The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue across the city skyline visible from Yash's office. Mishti stood by the window, nervously fiddling with the hem of her dress. She had sensed that this meeting was going to be different, but she hadn't expected this. Yash, her boss, had always been kind, but today there was a heaviness in his eyes, a sense of anticipation that made her uneasy.

Yash took a deep breath, his heart thudding in his chest. "Mishti," he began, his voice softer than usual, "I've been thinking a lot lately... about us. I don't know how to say this without sounding completely out of line, but I've come to realize that you mean more to me than just a colleague or a friend."

Mishti's breath hitched. She had feared this moment, and now it was here, hanging in the air between them, Kuhu had once stated her doubt about this situation but she was the one to politely rubbish that away. Yash continued, his eyes searching hers for any hint of reciprocation. "I care about you, Mishti. Deeply. And I would like to take our relationship to the next level if you feel the same way."

There was a long pause. Mishti felt her cheeks grow warm. She looked down, trying to gather her thoughts. She respected Yash immensely—he was a good man, a wonderful boss, and a genuine friend. But her heart belonged to someone else. To Abir.

"Yash, " Mishti finally replied, her voice gentle but firm. "You are an amazing person, and I respect you so much. But... I don't feel the same way."

Yash's face fell, but he quickly composed himself, forcing a small smile. "Is it someone else?" he asked softly, though he somewhere knew the answer.

Mishti nodded. "Yes, it's Abir. We've been together. I am in love with him!"

Yash closed his eyes for a moment, the reality of the situation sinking in. He felt a sharp pain in his chest, a twisting of emotions he hadn't prepared for. He had hoped, perhaps foolishly, that she might feel something for him. But he had always known Mishti was someone who followed her heart.

"I see," he said quietly, his voice strained but still kind. "Abir is a good man. You both... deserve all the happiness in the world."

Mishti stepped closer, her eyes filled with empathy. "Thank you, Yash. That means a lot."

He nodded, forcing another smile, though his heart ached. He watched her leave his office, her silhouette framed by the setting sun. A single tear escaped his eye, but there was also a sense of peace. If Mishti was happy, then he could find solace in that. Even if it wasn't with him.

Later that evening, Mishti met Abir at their favorite café, the soft hum of quiet conversations surrounding them. She recounted her conversation with Yash, her tone gentle yet firm.

Abir listened carefully, his eyes focused on hers. "Are you okay?" he asked, concern lacing his voice.

Mishti nodded. "I am. But I feel bad for Yash. He's a good person, and I hope he finds someone who truly loves him."

Abir reached for her hand across the table, squeezing it reassuringly. "He will. And he'll be okay, Mishti. Just like we are."

Mishti smiled softly, grateful for Abir's understanding.

As the conversation shifted, a shadow crossed Mishti's face. She hesitated, then finally spoke, "Abir, there's something that's been bothering me... Meenakshi Aunty. She's against our relationship, and I feel like I'm coming between you and her."

Abir's expression tightened. "Mishti, you're not the problem. My mother has always been controlling. She wants to dictate my life, but I've chosen you. She needs to understand that."

Mishti sighed, her guilt deepening. "But what if I'm the reason for the rift between you two? I don't want to break a son and mother's bond. It's not right."

Abir's eyes softened as he leaned closer, sensing her inner turmoil. "Mishti, my relationship with my mother has always been complicated. It's not just about you. She needs to respect my choices, and I want you in my life."

Despite his reassurances, Mishti's heart felt heavy. That night, lying awake, her mind spiraled with negative thoughts. She wondered if leaving Abir would be the right thing to do, for his sake. She loved him deeply, but was she worth the price of his family? The thought of breaking his heart tore at her, yet the fear of being the cause of his pain was even greater.

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That's it for today guys!

Thank you for reading!!!