Hope to Love

Chapter 22 - Staking the Claim!

Abhimanyu

"You are the dumbest person I've ever met." Rudra says, after the Swarli trio leaves the canteen.

"Seriously, do you like her or not?" Viraat had to be here to add that.

There's no possible excuse for the obvious. I blew my chance of confessing my feelings and I can't forget the change in her demeanour. It was like she'd raised her wall instantly.

To be honest, I wanted to shout and tell that asshole Viraat, 'she is mine'.

Chubbs being in my arms almost had me say that, but my mind unbelievably gave me a knee-jerk reaction and induced the fear of losing her forever.

"Everyone's afraid of losing the one they like or love." Nirvaan states.

"I assure you that she likes you. Anyone can see that in her eyes." Viraat rolls his eyes.

"I thought you loved her." I say, unable to understand his motive for provoking me.

"Don't doubt my love for her. I have loved her for more years than the months you have known her."

"Then why are you provoking me to propose? I might not deserve her." I challenge him.

"That's why you deserve her." Rudra smirks.

Is everyone else taking lessons from some love guru but me?

"What I feel doesn't matter. She likes you." Viraat sighs.

I don't doubt that. But she still needs time to accept this is more than just liking. Liking someone can be just attraction. I need more from her. I need everything she ever has to offer.

I want her love, something beyond simple infatuation.

"She still needs more assurance from Abby that he likes only her." Nirvaan chuckles.

I trust Nirvaan for a reason. He always understands everyone's unsaid words and maybe feelings.

"I think now is the time. She needs you the most." Viraat argues.

"I'm there for her as a friend. I'll always be there for her." I say.

"You know what I mean."

"I agree with Abby." Rudra says with his eyes in his phone.

"Do the hell you want." Viraat says, "Keep one thing in mind, if I get even a single hint that she likes me even a bit, I swear I'll get her." He warns before leaving the canteen.

I grin. He can try.

I only have to worry about my studies and career. Just like my Chubbs said.

No amount of physical pleasure from other girls can match the level of pleasure Chubbs gives me.

Her maturity and ambition for her career and respect for my career makes her the best girl anyone can get. I want to encourage her in fulfilling her dreams and I have no doubt she will support mine.

"Are you worried about him?" Rudra asks me.

"Who?" I ask.

Rudra chuckles, "Expected."

"You are planning to confess your feelings before the year ends, right?" Nirvaan asks.

Year end? It's only three months away. Still, I'll go crazy, if I have to wait that long.