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The next few days in Lucknow were marked by an unexpected spell of heavy rain. The monsoon had arrived early, turning the streets into rivers and the skies into a canvas of dark, brooding clouds. Ananya watched the downpour from her apartment window, the rhythmic patter of raindrops a soothing lullaby to her restless mind.

She thought about Arjun and their serendipitous meeting. Despite the rain, she felt an unusual warmth within her. They had exchanged numbers, and though neither had reached out yet, she couldn't shake off the anticipation of seeing him again.

Arjun, too, found himself thinking about Ananya as he navigated the rain-soaked streets, his camera capturing the beauty of the monsoon in Lucknow. The city's charm was magnified in the rain—the shimmering reflections on the wet cobblestones, the soft glow of streetlights through the mist, and the vibrant colors of umbrellas moving like flowers in a breeze.

One afternoon, unable to resist the urge any longer, he decided to call her. As the phone rang, he felt a flutter of nervousness. When Ananya answered, her voice brought an immediate sense of calm.

Hi, Ananya. It's Arjun.

Hi, Arjun ,  how have you been?

she replied, a smile evident in her voice. 

Good, though a bit damp

He chuckled. 

The rain is relentless. I was wondering if you'd like to join me for a walk? I know it sounds crazy, but there's something magical about this weather.

Ananya hesitated, then agreed. 

I'd love that. Where should we meet?

How about the Bara Imambara? It's beautiful in the rain.

Perfect. I'll see you there.

Ananya arrived at the Bara Imambara, an architectural marvel that stood majestic against the grey sky. The rain had lessened to a gentle drizzle, creating a misty aura around the monument. She spotted Arjun near the entrance, holding a vibrant red umbrella, his face lighting up when he saw her.

 She spotted Arjun near the entrance, holding a vibrant red umbrella, his face lighting up when he saw her

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Hey

He greeted, offering her the umbrella. 

Ready for an adventure?

She nodded, taking the umbrella. 

Let's go.

They walked through the gardens, the sound of raindrops on leaves a melodic background to their conversation. Arjun's camera was ever-present, capturing moments of beauty and spontaneity. Ananya found herself relaxing in his presence, the worries of her new life momentarily forgotten.

Do you know the history of this place? 

Arjun asked, as they stood before the grand hall.

Yes

Ananya replied, her eyes sparkling. 

It was built by Asaf-ud-Daula in the 18th century to provide employment during a famine. It's a symbol of compassion and resilience.

Arjun looked at her, impressed by her knowledge. 

You have a way with words. You should be a storyteller.

She laughed. 

Maybe I will be someday.

As they wandered through the labyrinthine corridors of the Bhool Bhulaiya, they shared more of their lives. Ananya spoke of her struggles adapting to the new city, while Arjun revealed his fears about settling down and finding true purpose.

The rain outside intensified, and they found themselves taking shelter under a large archway. The air was cool, the scent of wet earth intoxicating. Arjun turned to Ananya, his expression serious.

Ananya, I feel like I've known you forever. There's something about you that feels... right.

Ananya's heart skipped a beat. 

I feel the same, Arjun. It's strange, but wonderful.

They stood in silence, the rain creating a cocoon around them. In that moment, they were the only two people in the world, connected by an invisible thread of destiny.

Over the next few weeks, the rain continued, and so did their meetings. They explored the city together, finding beauty in the most unexpected places. Each rainy day brought them closer, their bond growing stronger with every shared moment.

However, not all storms come with gentle rain. As their relationship deepened, so did the challenges they faced. Ananya's job demands increased, leaving her with little time for herself or for Arjun. The pressure of her new responsibilities weighed heavily on her, leading to sleepless nights and growing stress.

Arjun, too, struggled with his own demons. His freelance work was unpredictable, and the uncertainty of his career path caused him anxiety. He feared that his wandering spirit might not be able to provide the stability Ananya deserved.

Despite their love, the rain clouds of doubt and insecurity began to loom over them. They were drawn together by the magic of the monsoon, but real life was proving to be more complex.

Yet, through it all, the rain remained a constant reminder of their first meeting, a symbol of hope and renewal. They clung to that memory, believing that love could weather any storm.

One evening, as the rain poured down relentlessly, Ananya stood on her balcony, lost in thought. Her phone buzzed with a message from Arjun: 

Meet me at Nawabi Chai. We need to talk.

Her heart pounded as she read the words. She sensed that this conversation would be crucial, a turning point in their journey. Gathering her courage, she grabbed her umbrella and stepped into the rain, ready to face whatever lay ahead.  

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What is it that Arjun needs to tell 🤔🤔?? U guys keep thinking, till then I will take my leave. Stay tuned.

Love you all💖


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