When Love Lasts✔️

Chapter 9

Sukhpreet Kaur 

As I gradually awakened from my slumber, my eyelids fluttered open to reveal a sight that both surprised and delighted me. There, lying peacefully beside me, was none other than Mankirat, fast asleep. It was a heartwarming sight to behold, as his serene expression and gentle breathing filled the room with a sense of tranquility.

However, as I fully regained my senses, a sudden realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. What had happened to our meticulously constructed pillow barrier? It had been our unspoken agreement, a fortress of softness that separated our sleeping spaces and ensured a peaceful night's rest. Yet, somehow, during the course of the night, it had vanished without a trace.

I couldn't help but chuckle softly to myself, realizing that the absence of our pillow barrier was a testament to the bond we shared. It was a symbol of the trust and comfort we found in each other's presence. In that moment, I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for the simple yet profound connection we had formed. As I watched Mankirat sleep soundly, I knew that no physical barrier could ever compare to the warmth and security we found in each other's arms.

As I gazed upon him, peacefully slumbering, a sense of guilt washed over me. It was absurd, really. After all, he was just my roommate, nothing more. I shouldn't be harboring these forbidden thoughts, yearning for something that could never be. Yet, there was an undeniable allure to his presence, a magnetic pull that I couldn't resist.

His serene face, untouched by the worries of the world, captivated me. The way his chest rose and fell with each steady breath was mesmerizing. I found myself fixated on the delicate curve of his lips, so effortlessly beautiful. It was as if they held the secrets of a thousand whispered promises, tempting me to cross the line between friendship and something more.

But reality quickly snapped me back to my senses. I knew deep down that he could never be mine, no matter how much I yearned for him. We were just two souls sharing a living space, bound by the constraints of societal norms. It was a cruel twist of fate, to be so close to what I desired, yet unable to reach out and claim it. So, I silently watched him sleep, cherishing these stolen moments, knowing that they were all I could ever have.

As the first rays of sunlight gently filtered through the curtains, I noticed a subtle movement from the slumbering figure beside me. His eyelids fluttered, and a contented smile slowly spread across his face. It was a heartwarming sight to witness, knowing that he was finding solace in his dreams.

Gradually, his eyes opened, revealing the vibrant hues of his irises. The sleepiness lingered in his gaze for a moment before recognition dawned upon him. With a warm and genuine smile, he directed his affectionate gaze towards me. It was as if the world had paused for a moment, allowing us to bask in the tranquility of the morning.

"Good morning, beautiful," he greeted me, his voice filled with tenderness and adoration. The words rolled off his tongue effortlessly, carrying with them a sense of familiarity and love. In response, I couldn't help but return his affectionate smile, feeling a surge of warmth and happiness enveloping me. "Good morning, Manny," I replied, my voice filled with equal affection, grateful for the start of another beautiful day together.

We both rise from our seats, a sense of anticipation filling the air as we prepare to make our way back to our dormitory. With a confident stride, he takes the lead, guiding us out of the house. As we step outside, a surge of boldness courses through me, compelling me to act on my desires. Without a second thought, I press him firmly against the wall, my heart pounding in my chest.

Standing on my toes, I close the distance between us, my lips meeting his in a passionate collision. The sensation is electrifying, sending shivers down my spine. In that moment, time seems to stand still as our bodies meld together, our lips moving in perfect harmony. The softness of his lips against mine is intoxicating, igniting a fire within me that I never knew existed.

The world around us fades into the background as we lose ourselves in this stolen moment of passion. The taste of his lips lingers on mine, a sweet and addictive flavor that I crave more of. Our bodies pressed against each other, the heat between us intensifies, fueling the fire of desire. In this impulsive act, we discover a connection that transcends words, a silent understanding that speaks volumes.

As we gradually distance ourselves from each other, a wave of realization crashes over me, flooding my mind with the weight of my colossal mistake. The taste of regret lingers on my lips, a bitter reminder of the impulsive action I took. I shouldn't have allowed myself to succumb to the allure of his touch, to the magnetic pull of his lips against mine.

The journey back home feels like an eternity, the silence between us growing thicker with each passing moment. I steal a glance at him, only to find him wearing a subtle smile that dances upon his lips. It's a smile that speaks volumes, revealing his lack of remorse for our stolen kiss. In that moment, I realize that he cherishes the memory we created, cherishes the connection we briefly shared.

However, as much as I long to embrace the possibility of a future together, I know deep down that it can never be. I can't allow him to believe that our impulsive act of passion can transcend into something more meaningful. The truth is, I too am unable to shake off the lingering desire that the kiss ignited within me. But the circumstances that bind us, the complexities of our lives, they render any hope of a future together futile. So, I steel myself, determined to protect both our hearts from the inevitable pain that would follow if we were to pursue this forbidden path.