TANGLED IN THE SHADOWS

Part -35

After they all woke up, they greeted Hardik warmly, relieved to see him safe. Krunal, still groggy from sleep, jokingly asked, "Why didn't you wake me up earlier, man? I could've used a hug from my brother." Hardik chuckled, ruffling Krunal's hair affectionately, "Didn't want to disturb your beauty sleep, big bro."

Once everyone freshened up, they gathered to meet the old pandit for the final pooja. The atmosphere was solemn yet hopeful as they performed the rituals, praying earnestly to Hanumanji for protection and guidance. Each mantra recited felt like a shield against the lingering shadows of the past.

As they prepared to part ways, Jadeja and Dhoni made plans to travel to Ranchi together by train, while the others would head off in Krunal's car. They exchanged numbers, expressing gratitude to Jadeja for his steadfast support throughout the ordeal. "No, I should thank all of you," Jadeja replied, his voice wavering with emotion. "You've given me a chance to set things right with Mahi."

Their farewell was tearful and heartfelt. Jadeja hugged each of them tightly, promising to stay in touch. "Take care, all of you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "And remember, we've beaten this together."

On the train to Ranchi, Jadeja found comfort laying his head on Dhoni's shoulder. Dhoni, looking out the window, suddenly spoke up, "You know, I think it's time we make it official. Ma is after me to settle down, and who better than you?" Jadeja burst out laughing, tears of joy glistening in his eyes."Oh, now you're finally feeling the pressure from your mom, huh?"

Dhoni smiled warmly, "Seriously though, Ravindra, I want us to be together officially. I've waited too long." Jadeja's laughter faded, replaced by a soft smile. "I've waited longer," he said softly, "since the day I first dreamed of marrying you."

As they journeyed towards Ranchi, Jadeja's thoughts drifted to his younger days, when he had dreamed of marrying Dhoni. Now, with their love stronger than ever and a new beginning ahead, those dreams were finally becoming reality. He closed his eyes, a smile playing on his lips, filled with hope and anticipation for the future that awaited them together.

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In Krunal's car, the atmosphere was lively as they drove back from the temple. Ishan, excited and talkative, was recounting their adventure, animatedly gesturing with his hands.

"I'm telling you guys, when we tell this story, everyone's going to be hanging on every word," Ishan exclaimed, grinning widely.

Rahul, teasingly, interrupted him, "Are you going to mention how you screamed like a banshee in the graveyard?"

Ishan shot back, mock-offended, "Hey, I confronted a petni in the dead of night, okay? That's heroic stuff!"

As the laughter and banter continued, Krunal's expression turned serious. "But listen, you guys," he warned, "we shouldn't brag about this. It's best if we forget this whole thing ever happened. It's not something to show off."

Everyone fell silent for a moment, absorbing his words. Rahul nodded, "Yeah, you're right. Some things are better left in the past."

Ishan sighed, "Agreed. But we can at least be grateful we made it through together."

Hardik nodded, "Absolutely. We'll keep this as our little secret, right?"

Shubman,in his own little world,thinking aloud about the workload awaiting him, sighed dramatically, "Ugh, I have so much catching up to do with assignments and concepts."

His complaint elicited groans from everyone, except Krunal, who chuckled understandingly, "Welcome back to reality, mate."

Rahul, feeling mischievous, turned to Ishan, "Keep your boyfriend in check, will you?"

Hardik, leaning closer to Rahul, nudged him playfully, "Or what?"

Rahul's response was immediate and unexpected—he turned and kissed Hardik passionately. The moment lingered, the kiss deepening briefly before they pulled apart, breathless and smiling.

Ishan, feigning disgust but secretly amused, joked, "Ugh, get a room, you two!"

Krunal, unable to contain his laughter, chimed in, "Looks like you already have one, guys!"

Breaking the tension with humor, Ishan teased, "So, who do you think will be the 'it' couple when we're back at college?"

Without missing a beat, Hardik grinned and replied confidently, "Obviously us."

Ishan raised an eyebrow, pretending to consider it, "Hmm, I don't know, I think me and Shubman might give you a run for your money."

Krunal chuckled, shaking his head, at the silliness of these arguments.

As they bantered playfully, the car filled with laughter and the warmth of camaraderie, each of them looking forward to the future and the adventures still to come.

                          💞 🤗THE END🤗💞