Passion & Dilemma

8. Can I join you?

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Prerna's POV

I groaned in my sleep and stretched my hands out to my phone. I grabbed it and looked at the time.

It was exactly six in the morning.

"Fuck." I got up with a jolt and quickly put on my slippers.

I was late. I had to cook, wash the dishes, do the laundry, serve breakfast and get ready for work and— wait.

"Aye, Prerna." I hit my forehead when realisation hit me and I chuckled at my actions.

I stood by the window and a sigh espaced my lips as I looked at the sunrays kissing the beautiful landscape, making it look like paradise.

Peace.

I can't remember the last time I felt so peaceful. No family drama, no work, no restrictions—it's just me.

For the first time, I found the morning delightful. Otherwise, my mornings usually begin with taunts at home.

I opened the window and embraced myself when the cold breeze touched my rough skin. The faint but sweet voice of birds chirping grazed my ears.

Amidst the chaos in my life, this moment was like a touch of comfort I have always craved.

My lips curled at the corner, remembering that this was going to be my life for the next eight days, and I promised myself I am going to enjoy every bit of it.

Life often has not been kind to me, but now that this miracle has happened, I won't let this opportunity slip away. I will steal some moments for myself and take as many good memories from here as possible.

I turned and did my normal morning routine, and went to the kitchen only to find the chef already working there.

"Good morning, ma'am." He greeted and I returned the gesture. "Do you need something?" He asked and I stood there realising I don't have to do any work.

"Um, yes. Can I, eh, get a cup of tea, please?" He nodded and I walked out towards the garden. It felt weird to order for things from someone. Even if itwas his job, I felt this way.

Standing at the boundary, I saw a man sleeping under the tree on a Chaarpayi, with his arm resting on the eyes and other hand patting his torso. It took me a second to recognize him.

Sarthak. But why was he up so early in the morning? Based on what I know from Naina, everyone in the family sleeps late.

And after yesterday's hectic traveling and stuff, he must be tired. I remember how his eyes were full of sleep while we were having dinner.

I did not notice it, but Jija ji pointed it out.

Lost in my thoughts, I did not realise when my legs began to work on their own and I was standing by him.

He must have felt me coming because he uncovered his eyes and looked at me with a frown that soon melted into a look of surprise.

"Good morning." It was awkward but it was all I could manage to say and he sat up straight.

His tousled curly hairlocks fell on his forehead, reaching his deep brown eyes. They swayed by the effect of cold gentle breeze hitting us and my lips threatened to adapt a smile as he let out a yawn.

"Good morning, Prerna ji." He ran a hand through his hair and patted the bed. I thought twice before taking a seat.

"Itni subah-subah kyu jage ho?"

"Why did you wake up so early in the morning?"

I asked and folded my legs over the bed to sit more comfortably.