.Chapter-24. The Picture.

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2500+ Words

 chaahat ban gae ho tum
 ki aadat ban gae ho tum,
 har saans me yoo aate jaate ho,
 jaise meree ibaadat
 ban gae ho tum.

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Author's pov:

Ashwin and Yuvan stepped into the lobby of the upscale hotel, their spirits buoyed by the prospect of their reunion and the adventures that lay ahead. The lobby was adorned with elegant furnishings and bathed in soft, inviting lighting, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury.

As they approached the check-in counter, a courteous hotel staff greeted them with warm smiles. Ashwin stepped forward, exchanging pleasantries with the receptionist as he completed the check-in process. Yuvan, ever the social butterfly, engaged in lighthearted banter with the staff, eliciting laughter and adding a touch of joviality to the proceedings.

Once the formalities were complete, Ashwin received the key cards to their rooms, and the duo made their way to the elevator. Inside the elevator, they exchanged excited glances, their anticipation palpable.

"So, Ash, ready for a memorable stay in London?" Yuvan asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Ashwin grinned, his own excitement mirrored in his friend's demeanor. "Absolutely," he replied, his voice tinged with enthusiasm. "It's been too long since we've had a chance to catch up like this. I'm looking forward to exploring the city with you, Yuvan."

Yuvan nodded eagerly, his adventurous spirit already tingling with anticipation. "You bet! London's got so much to offer – from its iconic landmarks to its vibrant culture," he exclaimed. "And with you as my tour guide, I have no doubt we'll make the most of every moment."

As the elevator doors slid open on the 23rd floor, Ashwin and Yuvan stepped out into the corridor, their eyes immediately drawn to a figure standing just a few feet away. It was a woman, her silhouette elegant and poised, framed by the soft glow of the hallway lights.

Ashwin's heart skipped a beat as he recognized her. It was Riya, his ex-girlfriend. Memories flooded back to him, memories of a time when they were happy together, before everything fell apart.

Yuvan noticed the tension in Ashwin's posture and glanced at him, concern evident in his eyes. But Ashwin remained silent, his gaze fixed on Riya, his expression guarded.

Riya turned as she sensed their approach, her eyes locking with Ashwin's. There was a flicker of surprise in her expression, quickly masked by a composed facade.

"Ashwin," Riya greeted, her voice smooth and composed, though there was an undercurrent of tension beneath the surface.

"Riya," Ashwin replied, his tone cool and distant.

Yuvan observed the exchange silently, his senses on high alert as he took in the charged atmosphere between the former couple.

Riya's gaze shifted to Yuvan, a polite smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "And who is this?" she asked, though her eyes never left Ashwin's face.

"This is Yuvan, my friend," Ashwin replied tersely, his jaw clenched.

Yuvan nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze steady as he assessed the situation.

Riya's smile faltered slightly, though she quickly regained her composure. "Nice to meet you, Yuvan," she said, her tone polite but tinged with a hint of desperation.

Yuvan returned the greeting with a nod, though his expression remained neutral.

The tension between the three of them was palpable, each moment stretching out uncomfortably as they stood in the dimly lit corridor.

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