Obsession

Chapter 11: A saree and secret

Aaryavart Sarees was a place unlike any other. It was an oasis of culture, tradition, and timeless beauty, with rows upon rows of rich, intricate fabric displayed like treasures waiting to be discovered.

As they entered, a salesman greeted them with a warm smile. "How can I assist you today?"

Rishabh, momentarily unsure, glanced toward Sunidhi. His raised eyebrows silently asked for her guidance. Sunidhi returned a calm smile, taking the lead.

"We’re looking for something in Banarasi or Bandhani sarees," she said confidently.

"Of course, this way please," the salesman replied, guiding them to an exclusive section where the soft shimmer of Banarasi silk reflected under the soft lighting.

They sat, the atmosphere filled with the scent of rich fabric and the anticipation of choosing the perfect piece. The salesman began presenting an array of sarees, each more exquisite than the last.

“This is one of our finest Banarasis,” the salesman began, holding up a deep red saree. “Made with real gold threads and designed by the master artisans of Varanasi, this piece is a symbol of marriage and tradition. Red is the color of married Indian women, signifying strength, honor, and pride. I believe this would look wonderful on you, ma'am."

Sunidhi glanced at the saree, admiring the intricate patterns and the depth of its color. Rishabh, with his eyes shining, couldn’t help but agree. "You would look absolutely ethereal in this. This color would highlight your elegance perfectly."

Sunidhi felt a flicker of warmth at his words, but then quickly reminded herself of the reason they were here. "It’s beautiful, but we’re here to choose a saree for the shagun."

Rishabh nodded in understanding, but couldn’t help the small sense of wanting to buy it for her. "Yes, of course. We’ll keep it in mind."

After a bit of deliberation, Sunidhi, with her sharper judgment, selected a simpler yet equally beautiful saffron saree. It had a rich golden silk border and a soft sheen that would look perfect for the occasion.

"This one will do," Sunidhi said, feeling satisfied. "It's elegant and just right for the shagun."

"Absolutely," Rishabh agreed, though his mind was still partially lost in thoughts of the red saree. He gestured to the salesman. "Could you please wrap the red saree as a gift? We’ll take it."

"Of course, sir," the salesman replied, quickly wrapping the saree with care.

With the saree packed, they were on their way to the hospital. Sunidhi’s car was parked there, and the drive was filled with an unexpected silence, each of them lost in their thoughts.

“So… how’s life going?” Rishabh broke the silence, turning to face Sunidhi.

Sunidhi smiled softly, her gaze focused on the road ahead. “Hmm... it’s devotional, loving, crushing over, and warm,” she said, her voice filled with a softness Rishabh hadn’t noticed before.

"Crushing over?" he repeated, a hint of curiosity and concern creeping into his voice.

Sunidhi glanced at him, a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. "Yes."

Rishabh’s mind immediately darted to thoughts of Siddharth. Could it be him? Could she still have feelings for her neighbor? The thought unsettled him, making his pulse quicken for a moment.

“It’s not Siddharth,” Sunidhi answered, as if reading his thoughts.

Rishabh’s brows furrowed. "Huh?"

Sunidhi gave a small laugh. "I said, it’s not Siddharth."

"Then who?" he asked, now more intrigued than before.

Sunidhi’s lips curled into a playful smile. "Find out, mister."

Rishabh’s surprise was evident, but he couldn't help the feeling that something more was at play. "Who would've thought," he muttered, "that a mature doctor like you would have a crush on someone like a teenager?"

“Oh, hello?” Sunidhi shot back, her playful tone masking her growing affection. "I’m not exactly a teenager, but I’m not dead either. He’s such a handsome, generous, and ethical man. Every girl’s dreamboy. And I’ve known him for years."

Rishabh fought the rush of jealousy that hit him like a wave, but he managed to maintain his composure. "Well, I’m sure he’s a great guy, but sometimes looks can be deceiving," he said lightly, trying to push his emotions aside. "Some people seem perfect on the outside, but you never know what’s inside."

Sunidhi’s face brightened with conviction. “No, trust me. He’s truly worthy of admiration. He’s been a part of my life for a long time, and I know him well.”

Rishabh chuckled under his breath, the jealousy still simmering. “A worthy person,” he muttered, more to himself than her.

As Sunidhi pulled into the parking lot and parked her car, Rishabh glanced over at her, feeling a mixture of emotions. Despite the lighthearted banter, something deeper was pulling at him, something he couldn’t ignore.

"Take care," he said softly as she unbuckled her seatbelt.

"You too," she replied, giving him a small smile.

As she walked away, Rishabh sat in the car for a moment, still processing the conversation. His mind circled back to the phrase she had used: "crushing over." The jealousy gnawed at him, but there was something else—a realization he hadn’t fully come to terms with yet.

She was his friend, his confidant, his companion. But deep down, he knew now that he wanted more. And the thought of losing her to someone else was something he wasn’t ready to accept.

“She’s mine,” he whispered softly, a vow to himself, as he drove off into the night.

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Revised and edited.
Word count: 905~