Whispers of heart

Chapter :10 :- A Night of Friendship and Support

The evening sky was painted in hues of orange and pink as Mia stood outside Alex's home. The sprawling bungalow, once a sanctuary of laughter and childhood adventures, now seemed shrouded in an inexplicable gloom. Lily, her usual companion, couldn't accompany her this time, leaving Mia with a sense of unease. She hesitated for a moment before ringing the doorbell, her heart pounding in her chest. To her surprise, the door creaked open, revealing an eerie darkness within.

"Alex? " Mia's voice echoed through the silent hall, met only by the chilling silence. Growing more concerned, she fumbled for her phone, attempting to call him. No answer. With trepidation, she ventured further inside, her footsteps barely audible on the plush carpet.

Upstairs, Mia found herself standing before Alex's closed bedroom door. A strange mixture of fear and determination coursed through her veins as she pushed it open gently. "Alex, are you in there?" she called out, her voice laced with worry.

Inside, the room was dimly lit, revealing Alex sitting at his desk, his head bowed in profound despair. Mia's heart ached at the sight of her friend, his usual lively spirit replaced by a haunting emptiness. "Alex, what's happened?" she asked softly, her hand finding its way to his shoulder.

He looked up, his eyes devoid of the spark she knew so well. "Mia, what are you doing here?" His voice, lacking its usual warmth, sent shivers down her spine.

Concern etched across her face, Mia gently squeezed his hand, feeling the heat radiating from his feverish skin. "Alex, you're burning up. You need medical help. Let me take you to the doctor."

A bitter smile played on his lips as he pulled away. "It's just a fever, Mia. I'll be fine. You don't have to worry about me."

But Mia saw the pain etched in his eyes, the shadows of a hidden torment. "Alex, i know something has happen. You don't have to face this alone. Whatever it is, we can find a solution together. You're not alone in this."

His gaze dropped, his voice barely audible. "My parents are getting a divorce."

The revelation hit Mia like a punch to the gut. She felt her own eyes welling up with tears, mirroring the pain she saw in his. Without a word, she pulled him into a tight embrace, offering him the solace of her friendship. "I'm so sorry, Alex. You don't have to carry this burden by yourself. Lean on me. you can cry."

Tears streamed down Alex's face as he finally allowed himself to break, the weight of his emotions pouring out. Mia held him gently, her embrace a sanctuary where he could unload his anguish. In that moment, their friendship transcended words, offering a refuge from the storm raging within him.

After what felt like an eternity, Alex pulled away, his eyes red but his spirit lighter. "Thank you, Mia. I'm sorry for pushing you away earlier."

Mia smiled through her tears, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. "You don't have to apologize for it, Alex."

Mia looked at Alex with determination in her eyes. "Alex, you need to rest and regain your strength. I'm going to make you a proper dinner. You can't heal on an empty stomach," she said firmly, her voice filled with resolve.

Alex tried to protest weakly, "Mia, you don't have to go through all this trouble for me. I can manage on my own."

Mia shook her head, her expression unwavering. "No arguments, Alex. Friends take care of each other, and that includes making sure they eat properly. Besides, cooking for you is the least I can do after all the times you've been there for me."

A small smile tugged at the corners of Alex's lips as he realized the depth of Mia's sincerity. "Thank you, Mia. I appreciate it, more than I can express."

After some time .Mia carefully balanced a tray laden with steaming food as she made her way back to Alex's room. The aroma of freshly cooked dishes wafted through the air, filling the space with a comforting warmth.

She gently knocked on the door before entering, finding Alex sitting at his bed, lost in his thoughts."Alex, dinner's ready," Mia said softly, her voice laced with concern.

"I made your favorite dishes – your mom's recipe for chicken soup and some rice. I hope it'll help you feel better."

Alex looked up, his eyes weary yet appreciative. "Mia, you really didn't have to go through all this trouble. I can't thank you enough."

Mia placed the tray on the bedside table and pulled up a chair, her eyes filled with empathy. "Alex, it's not trouble.  Now,  I'll serve you."Alex complied, his movements slow and deliberate.

Mia ladled a generous portion of chicken soup into a bowl and placed it in front of him, followed by a serving of rice. "I hope it tastes okay. I'm not as good a cook as my mom, but I tried my best," she said, offering him a reassuring smile.

Taking a spoonful of soup, Alex blew on it gently before taking a tentative sip. His eyes widened in surprise, and a hint of a smile played on his lips. "Mia, this is amazing. Your cooking is as good as your mother's, if not better."

Mia blushed at the compliment. "I'm glad you like it. Eat up; you need your strength to fight off that fever."

After they finished their meal, Mia collected the empty dishes. "I'll take these to the kitchen and be back in a minute. Is there anything else you need?"

Alex shook his head, his eyes reflecting his gratitude. "No, Mia, you've done more than enough. Thank you for everything."

Mia smiled, her eyes filled with genuine care. "You're welcome, Alex. Don't hesitate to call me if you need anything else.

After some time Mia came and handed him his medicine, her eyes reflecting unwavering determination. ." Now, take your medicine and get some rest."

With a reluctant nod, Alex agreed, retreating to his bed.

Alex hesitated for a moment before speaking softly, "Mia, I know it's late, but I don't want you to go home alone. It's not safe at this hour. Let me drive you back."

Mia shook her head, concern etched on her face. "Alex, you're not well. I can take a bus; it's not a problem. Your health is more important right now."

Alex insisted, his voice earnest. "I can't let you go alone, especially when you've been so kind to me. Please, let me drop you home. It's the least I can do."

"Alex trust me i will be safe, i will give you a call when i reach at home". Alex nodded

On her way home, Mia found herself waiting at the bus stop. Unbeknownst to her, Ethan, driving by in his car, recognized her silhouette against the dim streetlight.