UNSPOKEN BONDS

7. In Love

© @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

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After an enlightening conversation with the woman at the market,  I felt a sense of clarity wash over me. I glanced at Sam, my heart filled with a new understanding and appreciation for our bond.

We decided to head back to the resort and relax by the pool. Lounging on sunbeds, sipping on fresh coconut water, we talked about everything and nothing.

“This trip has been incredible,”  I said, my eyes closed as I soaked in the sun.

Sam smiled. “I’m glad you think so. You deserve to be happy, Ammu.”

I looked at him, my heart full. “Thank you, Sam. For everything.”

As the sun began to set, we decided to take a long walk along the beach. The golden light cast a warm glow over everything, making the moment feel almost magical.

“Today’s been perfect,”  I said softly, her eyes on the horizon.

Sam nodded. “Yeah, it has. I’m glad we did this.”

I turned to him, her expression serious. “Sam, you’ve always been there for me. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Sam reached out and took my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “You’ll never have to find out, Ammu. I’ll always be here.”

I felt a warmth spread through my chest, a mix of gratitude and something deeper  I couldn’t quite name. We stood there, hand in hand, watching the sun dip below the horizon.

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Next day, Sam and l decided to visit the ancient Janjira Fort, a place filled with history and grandeur. The fort's towering walls and majestic presence captivated us as we stepped inside, eager to explore its secrets, like olden times.

As we walked through the fort, the atmosphere was filled with the echoes of our laughter and playful banter.

“Remember the last time we were here?” Sam began, a mischievous glint in his eye.

I chuckled. “Yeah, you convinced me there was a hidden treasure buried somewhere.”

Sam grinned. “Well, I had to make our adventure more interesting! And you believed me, didn’t you?”

I rolled my eyes. “I was ten, Sam. Of course, I believed you.”

He laughed. “And then you spent hours digging in random spots while I just watched. Classic.”

I playfully punched his arm. “Hey, you joined me eventually. We were a team, remember?”

Sam nodded, his smile softening. “Always a team.”

We continued exploring the fort, pausing to admire the intricate carvings and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. We took countless photos, capturing not just the beauty of the place, but our shared joy as well.

At one point, we found ourselves in a narrow corridor, the walls lined with ancient artifacts.

“Look at this,” I said, pointing to a faded mural depicting a fierce battle.

Sam leaned in to examine it. “Wow, the detail is incredible. Can you imagine living in those times?”

I shook my head. “No way. I’d probably be the one hiding in a corner while you fought off the invaders.”