UNSPOKEN BONDS

2. Sharing Thoughts & Sam's Wisdom

© archanaj1308 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.

AMRITHASHREE SRINIVASAN

The following day dawned with a crisp breeze, carrying the promise of a new beginning. I woke up with a determined resolve to face the inevitable—talking to Samarth about Ashwin and me. The memory of Gayatri's words echoed in my mind, urging me to confront the truth, no matter how uncomfortable.

I busied myself with work throughout the morning, trying to distract myself from the looming conversation. But as the clock struck noon, I couldn't ignore it any longer. With a deep breath, I picked up my phone and dialed Sam's number. The phone rang twice before he answered, his voice warm and familiar.

"Samarth here," he grinned & greeted.

"Hey Sam," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "Can we talk? It's important."

"Of course, Ammu," he replied immediately, concern coloring his tone. "Everything okay?"

I hesitated for a moment, gathering my thoughts. "It's about... a friend of mine," I began slowly. "And... a guy she likes."

There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, and I held my breath, waiting for his response.

Sam said quietly. "Go on."

I took a deep breath, grateful for his understanding. "So, my friend, Maya," I continued, choosing a name at random. "Maya has known this guy since childhood. They were close friends, practically inseparable. But as they grew older, things changed. They drifted apart, and life took them on different paths."

Sam listened intently, and I felt a sense of relief at being able to share my thoughts without directly implicating myself or Ashwin.

"Now, Maya still cares deeply for him," I went on, carefully choosing my words. "He sends her messages from time to time, saying how much he misses her, how he can't wait to see her. But they haven't met in person for almost a decade. Every time he comes to town, he's always busy with work or family commitments. She is very distressed and reached out to me for advice. I told her I will speak to you and ask for your advice as being a guy, you'd understand how a guy's mind works. I have no experience in this aspect."

There was a moment of silence before Sam spoke, his voice gentle yet thoughtful. "It sounds like Maya's caught in a complicated situation," he mused. "She wants clarity, but the guy's actions speak louder than his words."

I nodded silently, feeling a pang of recognition in Sam's words.

"And what do you think, Ammu?" Sam asked softly. "What advice would you give Maya?"

I took a deep breath, considering his question carefully. "I think Maya deserves someone who shows her through actions that she's a priority. His actions and words have never aligned till date," I replied slowly. "Words are easy, but actions... they're what truly matter."

Sam was quiet for a moment, processing my words. "You're right, Ammu," he said finally. "Maya needs to trust herself and her instincts. If this guy truly cares, he'll make an effort, no matter how busy he is."

I smiled gratefully, thankful for Sam's wisdom and insight. "Thank you, Sam," I said softly. "You always know the right thing to say."

He chuckled lightly. "I try, Ammu. I'm glad I could help."

As our conversation shifted to lighter topics, Sam mentioned his upcoming trip to Mumbai with his family and Kriti's family for a business merger. He shared his itinerary, including the date and time of their arrival.

As Sam mentioned his upcoming trip to Mumbai with his family and Kriti's family for a business merger, I felt a strange, foreign knot tighten in my chest, stirring unrecognizable feelings I am to struggling to comprehend ever since Sam told me last month that he started dating Kriti Kanan, his dad's business partner's daughter. You're just over imagining and over thinking things as usual Ammu just chill!

"I'll be landing at Mumbai Airport on Friday evening," Sam informed me. "It's going to be a hectic few days, but I'm looking forward to catching up with you & everyone."

"I'll be happy to pick you up from the airport, Sam," I offered immediately. "It'll be good to see you after so long. I could use a hug from you bestie." He chuckled after hearing me say that.

"That would be great, Ammu," Sam replied warmly. "I'll let you know once I've confirmed the details."

We talked for a while longer, exchanging updates about our families and work. Despite the weight of our earlier conversation, I felt a sense of relief knowing that Sam understood and supported me.

Later that evening, as I sat on my balcony with a cup of fresh Watermelon Juice, watching the city lights twinkle in the dusk, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Sam's friendship.

His advice had given me clarity and strength to face the uncertainties ahead. And as I looked forward to seeing him in Mumbai, I knew that no matter what happened with Ashwin, Sam would always be there for me and with his support I can literally deal with anything and everything.