In a distant marriage with her brooding husband, Ayan, Adira Khanna has resigned herself to a mundane life. However, fate has different plans when Ayan's childhood friends plan a week-long trip to Goa. Little did Adira know that this vacation would...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Chapter 12
I CAN SEE YOU
ARJUN
As we climbed up the steps of Aguada Fort, Ayan, Viraj and I made a personal little challenge, who would reach at the point first. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, the fort offered a mesmerizing panorama of the surrounding coastline. From the fort's elevated stairs, we gazed upon the vast expanse of the sea, its shimmering blue waters stretching out as far as the eye can see. The girls, Adira, Kavya, and Esha, followed behind us, engaged in their own conversations.
“You know, guys, it's amazing how much life has changed since our school days. We've come a long way, haven't we?”, I reached first and smiled.
“Absolutely, Arjun. It's like no matter what happens, we can always count on each other.”, Viraj nodded in agreement.
“You guys better not be getting all sentimental on me. I thought we were here to enjoy the sunset, not have a therapy session.”, Ayan smirked.
We found a comfortable spot to sit, our gazes fixed on the horizon.
“You know, it's moments like these that make me grateful for what we have. Life may have taken us on different paths, but it's our support for one another, that remains constant.”, Ayan said, looking at the view. One can’t help but get philosophical gazing at the view ahead of us.
“And let's not forget the countless adventures we've had along the way. Remember that time we got lost in the mountains? Or the prank on Ayan’s parents?”, Viraj chuckled.
“Oh, how could I forget? Those were the days. But you know what, guys? No matter where life takes us, I hope we always find our way back to each other.”, Ayan laughed.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the fort, I was lost in my own memory. I felt a sense of gratitude for these two friends standing beside me. In their presence, I knew that no matter what lay ahead, we would face them together, just as we always had.
…
(Fifteen years ago)
I entered the house late, the tense atmosphere hit me like a brick wall. My father stood there, his face contorted with anger. I knew I was in trouble.
"Arjun! Where have you been?" My father's voice boomed, his frustration evident in every word. I could feel his disappointment weighing heavily on me.
”Sorry. I- I lost track of time.”, I stammered.
He looked at me, his eyes narrowing as he noticed the paint stains on my hands. Panic set in as I tried to hide them behind my back, knowing it would only make things worse. I couldn't find the words to defend myself. Fear gripped me as I anticipated his next move.
