𝓐𝙇𝙇 𝙏𝙊𝙊 𝙒𝙀𝙇𝙇, abhishek sharma

xix. talking with family

Anushka noticed Ishika sitting quietly on the edge of the bed, tears silently streaming down her face. Concern etched across her features, she sat down beside Ishika and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "What happened, Ishika?" Anushka asked softly.

Ishika looked up, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and apprehension. She took a deep breath before speaking, her voice wavering slightly. "Virat figured out about us," she admitted, her words tinged with regret.

Anushka's expression softened, understanding dawning in her eyes. "Oh, Ishika," she murmured sympathetically, squeezing her shoulder gently. "I'm sorry this happened. But you know Virat—he's just protective."

Ishika nodded slowly, wiping away her tears with the back of her hand. "I know, Anushka. But it's complicated now," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Anushka gave her a reassuring smile. "Give him some time. He'll come around," she said encouragingly, her voice filled with warmth and reassurance.

Ishika managed a small nod, though the worry lines on her forehead deepened. She knew things had changed, and she wasn't sure how Virat would react next. Yet, Anushka's comforting presence eased some of her anxiety, reminding her that in time, things might find their way back to normalcy.

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Shubman and Kiara found themselves drawn to each other in unexpected ways after spending more time together. Their conversations became more animated, filled with shared laughter and growing mutual understanding. Shubman, who had harbored a crush on Kiara for some time, was overjoyed to find that she was beginning to reciprocate his feelings.

They bonded over their interests, discovering common ground that deepened their connection. Whether it was exploring new places in New York City or simply enjoying each other's company over coffee, their relationship blossomed into something meaningful and special.

Kiara, initially hesitant but intrigued by Shubman's genuine interest and charm, found herself opening up to him. She appreciated his kindness and the effort he put into making her feel comfortable and valued. Gradually, their friendship evolved into a romance that both cherished, finding solace and joy in each other's presence.

As they navigated the excitement and uncertainties of their budding relationship, Shubman and Kiara grew closer, their bond strengthened by shared experiences and newfound affection. Each day brought them closer together, forging a connection that promised to endure beyond their time in New York City.

As days passed, Abhishek found himself increasingly alone since Ishika moved in with Virat and Anushka, his thoughts often drifting to Ishika. He missed their conversations, the laughter they shared, and the comfort of her presence. Despite wanting to reach out, he respected Ishika's space, unsure of how to mend the rift between them.

Meanwhile, Ishika sought solace in the familiarity of Virat and Anushka's presence. Anushka, noticing Ishika's melancholy, gently broached the subject one evening.

"Ishika, are you alright? You seem distant lately," Anushka asked, concern lacing her voice as she poured a cup of tea.

Ishika sighed softly, her gaze fixed on the swirling steam rising from her cup. "It's complicated, Bhabi. Abhishek and I... things have changed since Virat found out."

Anushka nodded understandingly, her expression sympathetic. "Sometimes, misunderstandings can create distance. Have you talked to Abhishek about how you feel?"

Ishika shook her head. "No, not really. He's been keeping to himself, and I don't want to push him."

Anushka reached out and squeezed Ishika's hand reassuringly. "Maybe it's time to have that conversation. Relationships are about communication and understanding. If you both care about each other, you'll find a way through this."

Ishika nodded pensively, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty. "You're right, Bhabi. I'll talk to him when the time is right."

Abhishek, on the other hand, spent his evenings reflecting on their relationship. He knew Ishika was just a room away, but the emotional distance felt insurmountable. He wondered if there was still a chance to mend their fractured connection or if they had drifted too far apart.

Each passing day brought a mix of hope and apprehension, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavy in the air between them. As they navigated their separate emotional journeys, both Abhishek and Ishika wondered if they could find their way back to each other amidst the complexities of their feelings and the expectations surrounding them.

Abhishek picked up his phone and dialed Komal's number first. After a few rings, she answered cheerfully, "Hey Abhishek, what's up?"

"Hey Komal, I just wanted to catch up," Abhishek replied, trying to sound casual despite the weight on his mind.

"Of course! How's everything going with the team?" Komal asked, her voice filled with curiosity and warmth.

"Good, good," Abhishek replied, not wanting to delve into the deeper issues just yet. "And how are things with you?"

They chatted about everyday things for a while, and Komal's easygoing manner helped Abhishek relax. Eventually, he steered the conversation towards more personal matters. "Hey, um, I wanted to ask your opinion on something..."

"Sure, what's on your mind?" Komal responded, her tone becoming more attentive.

Abhishek took a deep breath. "It's about Ishika and me. We've been going through some rough patches lately, and I'm not sure how to fix things."

Komal listened intently, offering thoughtful advice and asking probing questions that encouraged Abhishek to reflect on his feelings and actions. "Sometimes, communication is key, Abhishek," she finally said. "Have you told her how you feel?"

Abhishek nodded, even though she couldn't see him. "Not really. Things got complicated with Virat finding out about us."

"Ah, family dynamics can be tricky," Komal acknowledged sympathetically. "But if you care about each other, finding a way to talk openly is important. Maybe it's time to have that honest conversation."

Encouraged by Komal's words, Abhishek felt a sense of clarity. "You're right, Komal. Thanks for listening and for the advice."

After hanging up with Komal, Abhishek hesitated before calling Vikram. He knew his brother would offer a different perspective, one grounded in their shared experiences growing up together. When Vikram answered, Abhishek launched into an explanation of his situation with Ishika.

"Bro, relationships are like cricket matches," Vikram began, using a metaphor that immediately resonated with Abhishek. "Sometimes, you have to strategize, adapt, and stay focused even when the game gets tough."

Abhishek chuckled, grateful for Vikram's ability to lighten the mood while still imparting wisdom. They talked late into the night, discussing past challenges and victories, and how those experiences could inform Abhishek's approach to his relationship with Ishika.

By the end of their conversation, Abhishek felt more determined than ever to confront the uncertainties and complexities surrounding his relationship with Ishika. Armed with insights from Komal and Vikram, he knew that the next step would be crucial in determining the future of their connection.

Feeling a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, Abhishek knew he had some important decisions to make. The advice from Komal and Vikram had given him perspective on his relationship with Ishika, urging him to communicate openly and honestly. As he set down his phone, he resolved to find a way to talk to Ishika, to address the misunderstandings and bridge the gap that had grown between them. With a deep breath, he gathered his thoughts and prepared himself for the difficult but necessary conversation ahead, hoping that they could find a way back to each other despite the challenges they faced.