QUERENCIA

25. SAVIOUR SINGH OBEROI

The next morning, Annika woke up gradually, her senses slowly adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings. As her eyes fluttered open, she took in the room and realized she was at Shivaay's home. The events of the previous night came rushing back, and a wave of mixed emotions washed over her. She sat up in bed, glancing around the room.

Just then, she heard a gentle knock on the door. "Come in," she called out, her voice still a bit groggy.

The door opened to reveal Shivaay standing there, holding a tray with breakfast. He was dressed in his formals—wearing a crisp dark blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, paired with black pants.

"Good morning, Annika," Shivaay greeted her with a warm smile, stepping inside and closing the door behind him.

"Good morning," Annika replied, her voice tinged with both surprise and gratitude. "I realized I'm at your place. I didn't mean to—"

Shivaay quickly interrupted her, shaking his head gently. "It's alright, Annika. You were upset last night, and I didn't want to leave you alone. I wanted to make sure you were safe and comfortable."

Annika's eyes softened as she looked at him, her heart swelling with appreciation. "Thank you, Shivaay. I really appreciate it."

He set the tray down on the bedside table and took a seat on the edge of the bed, his eyes filled with concern and affection. "I brought you some breakfast. I hope you like it."

Annika glanced at the tray, which was laden with a variety of her favorite breakfast items—fresh fruit, toast, scrambled eggs, and a steaming cup of coffee. "This looks wonderful," she said, managing a small smile.

"You go and freshen up till then I will set a plate for you, and there is a new toothbrush in the washroom" Shivaay said to her softly. Nodding her head she heads towards the washroom.

Once she came out Shivaay handed her a plate and they began to eat in a comfortable silence. After a few moments, he spoke again, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Annika, I meant what I said last night. I'm with you, no matter what. You don't have to go through anything alone."

Her eyes welled up with tears, but this time they were tears of gratitude and relief. She reached out and squeezed his hand. "Thank you, Shivaay. That means more to me than you know."

After finishing their breakfast together, Shivaay asked gently, "So, when are you leaving for Delhi?"

Annika paused for a moment, a mix of emotions crossing her face. "Tonight," she replied quietly.

Shivaay nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Are you... okay?" he asked hesitantly, knowing the weight of the situation she was facing.

Annika took a deep breath, steeling herself. "I have to face it, Shivaay. It's not going to be easy, but I can't avoid it either."

He reached out, squeezing her hand in a reassuring gesture. "You're strong, Annika. Plus I am coming with you, I will ask Khanna to prepare the private jet."

Annika looked at Shivaay, her eyes widening slightly with surprise and gratitude at his offer. She squeezed his hand back, feeling a surge of warmth and support from his words.

"You don't have to do that, Shivaay," she said softly, touched by his gesture.

He shook his head firmly, his expression determined. "I want to be there for you, Annika. This is important, and I want you to know that you're not alone in this."

Her heart swelled with emotion, overwhelmed by his unwavering support. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice filled with sincerity.

Shivaay nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Let me take care of the arrangements. We'll leave this evening."