Second Marriage

Chapter ~ 20

Vikram stepped into the soft illumination of his chamber, his gaze darting around the cozy space he shared with Devika, searching for her. He felt the weight of the morning, knowing that the previous night had been tough on them both. He checked each corner of the room but found no sign of Devika. The room, usually filled with her lively presence, seemed empty, making him question.

"Where is she?"

He murmured to himself, a slight frown creasing his forehead. Just as he was about to leave and continue his search, Devika walked in, her beauty radiating despite the evident signs of her troubled night.

"Suprabhat,"

She greeted with a gentle smile, her voice soft and comforting. Vikram's face lit up at the sight of her. He nodded in response, his smile returning, and stepped forward to kiss her forehead, a gesture filled with warmth and reassurance.

"How are you?"

He inquired, his voice laced with concern.

Devika, who had momentarily closed her eyes during the affectionate gesture, opened them to meet his gaze with a reassuring smile.

"I am okay."

She replied, but her voice was not convincing enough for Vikram, who noticed the puffiness around her eyes. His heart ached knowing she had spent the night in tears.

He cupped her face in his hands, he noticed her swollen eyes—signs of tears that had fallen in the quiet of the night. It was evident that she was carrying a burden too heavy for words.

He looked into her eyes, seeing the story of her sleepless night reflected there. Unable to help himself, he kissed each of her swollen eyes, then pulled her into a comforting embrace. Devika wrapped her arms around him, burying her face into his chest, seeking solace in his warmth.

"I love you."

Vikram whispered suddenly, the words bursting from him as if they were the most urgent thing he needed to express. Devika paused, her heart swelling with emotion, then kissed his chest in response.

"I too love you so much." she murmured back. He pulled back slightly to look at her, his expression earnest.

"Your eyes are revealing the entire tale of last night," he said, his voice gentle yet firm.

"It's not easy, Vikram. You must understand this," Devika replied, her voice filled with emotion. His heart ached for her.

Vikram's response was immediate and resolute.

"I will stand by your side, no matter the circumstances. You must believe this," he declared.

His words were a pledge, a promise of unwavering support and love.

"I couldn't survive without you, Devika. I need you by my side every step of the way."

He confessed, his eyes locked with hers, seeking to bridge any gap that might exist between them.

Devika's heart swelled at his words, a warm flush of affection spreading through her. Her smile grew, her heart enveloped by his words, his assurance. She took his hands in hers, squeezed them lightly, kiss them and with a tender look, said.

"Neither can I, Vikram."

The simple affirmation was all Vikram needed. A broad smile spread across his face, and without another word, he cupped her face again and kissed her, a kiss that spoke of love, understanding, and the unspoken promise of togetherness. Devika responded, and for a moment, time seemed to pause as they lost themselves in each other, finding strength and love in the union of their hearts.