Kalaba Kadhala | Part 1

Chapter 26

Anushka sat on the edge of her bed, the late afternoon light casting a warm glow through the curtains, illuminating the swirling dust motes in the still air. Her mind was a playground of emotions, locked in a constant struggle between fear and longing. she had made the decision to pull away from Prabhas, But in the quiet moments, the memories of their shared laughter and stolen kisses echoed in her heart, challenging her resolution.

As she toyed with the hem of her shirt, lost in her thoughts, a soft knock interrupted her reverie. It was Priya. Anushka looked up, appreciating the familiar presence as Priya stepped into the room, her long hair cascading around her shoulders.

"Hey, you okay?" Priya asked, sensing the heaviness in the air. "You haven't had lunch today".

Anushka managed a weak smile. "Onnulla Anni... just thinking."

"I know what it is about". Priya said, a playful smile on his lip making Anushka guess.

"Annai already told you?" Anushka asked, a slight blush on her cheeks.

"That you're thinking about Prabhas?" Priya sat down beside her, the mattress dipping slightly under her weight.

Anushka nodded, her gaze dropping to the floor. "I've been second-guessing my decision. I know he's dangerous, but... there's something about him I can't shake off."

Priya understood better than anyone. She had walked a similar path with Aditya, her own husband, a man whose world was shadowed by the same threats that haunted Anushka's thoughts. Anushka took a breath, summoning the courage to voice her apprehensions. "Don't you ever fear for your safety? With Annai being who he is, part of this world... Doesn't it worry you? What if someone tries to harm him or... hurt you and the baby because of his choices?"

Priya paused, her expression softening as she considered her sister-in-law's worries. She reached for Anushka's hand, squeezing it gently. "I won't lie; it's not always easy. There are nights when I lie awake, listening for sounds outside, wondering what could happen. But then I remember what really matters."

Anushka met her gaze, curiosity mingled with the weight of her fears. "What do you mean?"

Priya's eyes sparkled with affection as she spoke. "Your Annai loves his family. That's the foundation of our life together. Yes, he's a part of a world that can be dangerous, but his heart is always with me and Kashi. He's an ideal son, father and husband... and brother too, I believe. He fights to keep us safe, to ensure we have a life filled with laughter and love, despite the shadows around him."

Anushka listened intently, her heart aching at the trust Priya placed in her husband. "But how do you know he'll always come back?"

Priya smiled, sad yet resolute. "Love is a risk, isn't it? It's about embracing uncertainty. I'd rather live with my heart open, knowing that Adi gives everything to us, than live in fear and lose out on the happiness we share. He has his flaws, just like any man, but it's his devotion that matters the most."

Anushka absorbed Priya's words, a flicker of hope igniting within her. Perhaps love and danger could coexist. Maybe Prabhas, despite his reputation, could offer something beautiful, something worth fighting for. As the sunlight began to fade, she felt a stirring resolve growing within her.

They both sat in silence for a moment, the weight of their conversation hanging around them like a protective cloak. Anushka felt gratitude swell in her chest for the bond they shared, knowing she had the courage to face whatever lay ahead—whether it was the fear of the unknown or the promise of a love that dared to exist even on the edge of darkness.

With renewed determination, she stood up. "I need to talk to him. I need to know—"

Priya's smile glowed as she pushed herself to stand, wrapping her arms around Anushka. "Go get your man, Anu. Before it's late. Trust your heart."