INNOCENCE : An Innocent Lovestory

Chapter : 8

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Ananya fluttered her eyes open at exactly 5:30 AM, as if her mind was an alarm clock in itself. The dawn light seeped through the curtains, casting a soft glow on the room. She lay still for a moment, enjoying the quiet before the day's demands took over. With a deep breath, she stretched her arms above her head, feeling the satisfying pull of her muscles waking up. She swung her legs over the side of the bed and stood up, her feet sinking into the plush carpet.

With a last glance at Rihaan’s pouty face, still deep in sleep, she couldn't help but smile. His hair was tousled, and his lips were slightly parted, giving him a boyish charm even in slumber. She leaned down and brushed a light kiss on his forehead, careful not to wake him, and then made her way to the bathroom.

The cool tiles sent a shiver up her spine as she stepped into the shower. She turned the knob, and a stream of cold water cascaded over her soft skin, making her sigh in calmness. The coldness was a familiar sensation, one she had come to appreciate. It was invigorating, a sharp contrast to the warmth of her bed and a perfect way to start the day. She stood under the spray for a while, letting the water wash away any lingering sleepiness, her mind beginning to organize the tasks ahead.

After a long, refreshing bath, she stepped out and wrapped herself in a silk bathrobe. The smooth fabric clung to her damp skin as she padded back into the bedroom. Her gaze fell on her husband once more, and she noticed the peaceful softness on his face. A soft smile formed on her lips when she saw him smiling in his sleep. Probably dreaming about ice cream, she thought, shaking her head lightly at the whimsical notion.

She made her way to the walk-in wardrobe, a spacious area filled with rows of meticulously organized clothes. She selected a formal, expensive suit-tailored to perfection-and a pair of nude heels. The suit was a deep navy, which contrasted beautifully with her skin tone, and the heels added just the right amount of height. She dressed quickly but with precision, appreciating the feel of the high-quality fabric against her skin.

Next, she moved to her vanity and applied her makeup, opting for a nude palette that enhanced her features without being too bold. She brushed her hair back into a sleek bun, her movements practiced and efficient. With a final glance at her reflection, she nodded in approval and checked her wristwatch. The time read 6:25 AM.

Ananya walked out of the bedroom, the quiet of the early morning still hanging in the air. She made her way towards the kitchen, where she found Mrs. Mehra already up and drinking a cup of coffee. The aroma of the freshly brewed tea mingled with the faint scent of toast, creating a comforting atmosphere.

"Good morning, Mom," Ananya greeted, her voice soft and calm.

Mrs. Mehra looked up from her cup, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Good morning, Ananya. Up early as always," she replied, her eyes twinkling with affection.

Ananya poured herself a cup of coffee and joined her at the table. The tranquility of the moment was a cherished ritual, a small pocket of peace before the whirlwind of the day began.

She finished her tea and asked Mrs. Mehra if she should make breakfast. Mrs. Mehra shook her head and said, "You don't have to do house chores, dear."

Ananya understood that Mrs. Mehra might be thinking she was doing it out of obligation. "I just want my family to eat food made by me," Ananya said softly. The words felt strange to her. "Family" sounded like a foreign concept, but it felt good-strangely good.

Mrs. Mehra gave her an affectionate smile, and Ananya realized she had been smiling all along. She hurried into the kitchen, suddenly feeling an unfamiliar warmth inside her. It was overwhelming, very overwhelming. As she calmed herself, she heard footsteps behind her. She turned and saw Mrs. Mehra placing the coffee cup in the sink.