Betrayal's Embrace

Part 5

She hesitated for a moment, before deciding to say half-truth.

Mahi: "Oh, um, I'm currently... searching for a job. And I live not too far from here, just a few blocks away."

Vishal nodded, a sympathetic expression crossing his features.

Vishal: "I see. Job hunting can be tough, but I'm sure you'll find something soon."

Mahi offered him a grateful smile, relieved that he had accepted her answer without further questioning. 

She shifted the conversation away from herself, turning the focus onto Vishal.

Mahi: "And what about you, Vishal? What brings you to this city?"

Vishal: "Well, I actually got transferred here for work. I'm in the IT field, so I guess you could say I'm a bit of a tech geek."

And as they finally received their order and dug into the delicious snacks.

Vishal: "This place is incredible, Mahi. Thank you for bringing me here."Mahi returned his smile.

Mahi: "I'm glad you're enjoying it, Vishal. It's one of my favorite spots in the city."

As they finished their meal, Vishal turned to Mahi with a gentle smile.

Vishal: Let's go Mahi. It's already getting late. Let me drop you.

Mahi: "Thank you, Vishal, but it's really not necessary."

Vishal: It's getting late, and I want to make sure you get back safely."

Mahi: Thank you for your kindness, but I'm used to getting around on my own. Plus, I enjoy the walk."

Vishal: "Alright, Mahi. As you wish. But promise me you'll be careful, okay?"

Mahi returned his smile with a nod, touched by his genuine concern.

Mahi: "I promise. Thank you, Vishal."As Mahi insisted on making her own way to her home, Vishal relented with a nod, a flicker of concern still evident on his face.

With a final wave, Mahi turned to leave. Vishal watched her go, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure until she disappeared from sight.

As Mahi lay on her bed, a contented smile played on her lips as she reminisced about today's moments with Vishal. 

The warmth of their shared laughter and the genuine connection they had formed lingered in her mind, filling her with a sense of happiness she hadn't felt in a long time.

Lost in her thoughts, Mahi didn't notice her brother, Varun, seating on the chair, his expression get curious as he observed her.

Varun: "Didi, what's got you grinning like that?"Startled, Mahi's smile faltered slightly as she sat up, trying to compose herself.

Mahi: "Oh, uh, nothing, Varun. Just... thinking about something."

Varun: "Hmm, sure looks like something good. Care to share?"

Mahi's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she struggled to find an excuse. She doesn't want to tell him about Vishal right now.

Mahi: "It's really nothing, Varun. Just... a good day, that's all."

Varun: "Um okay, as you say."

Mahi: "Leave about me, you tell how's your studying going on , Varun? "

Varun: "It's going well, didi. In six months, my graduation will be over. After that, I'll give exam for police officer post."Mahi's heart swelled with admiration for her brother's dedication and ambition.

Mahi: "That's amazing, Varun! I know how hard you've been working for this. I have no doubt you'll do great."Varun smiled gratefully, 

Varun: "Didi, If I pass the exam, I'll have to undergo training for six months before officially becoming an officer."

Mahi: "I have full faith, you'll ace the exam and excel in training, Varun. I know You've always had a strong sense of justice and dedication to helping others."

Varun: "Thanks, didi. Your support means the world to me."

Mahi: "Graduating and then pursuing your dream of becoming a police officer—it's like a dream come true!"

Varun: "Hmm." Varun's response was less excited than she expected. He simply nodded, a shadow of sadness flickering across his features. 

Mahi furrowed her brow, 

Mahi: "Varun, why do you seem so sad? This will be a big accomplishment!"

Varun: " Yeah It will be but.."

Mahi: "But what Varun, what's wrong? You know you can share anything with me. We're each other's strength."

Varun hesitated, Mahi reached out to grasp Varun's hand, to reassure him that no matter what, I am always with you.Varun looked at her with a sense of gratitude and started to speak.

Varun: "Di, there's something I haven't told you about the process. The application form alone costs around 2000 rupees. And once I pass the exam, I'll have to submit a security deposit of 3 lakh rupees for the training. It's to ensure that candidates don't leave halfway through."

Mahi's eyes widened in shock at the large amount.

Mahi: "2000 rupees for an application form? And 3 lakh rupees for security deposit? That's a big amount , Varun! How are we supposed to afford that?"Varun nodded with a heavy heart.

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So what do you how will mahi arrange this large amount ?

Do comment and vote⭐