Shadow of Desires

Chapter 20-

Healing the Wounds

-Morning at the Khannas' House

Meher wakes up, her heart heavy with the weight of last night's events. As she sits up in bed, memories of Aditya's pained expression flood her mind. She knows she can't leave things unresolved.

Meher - thinking to herself
I have to go to the Roys' house first. I can't leave things like this.

She quickly gets ready, her hands trembling slightly as she pulls on her clothes. As she steps downstairs, she finds Isha in the living room, scrolling through her phone.

Isha - Meher, tum itni subah subah kahan ja rahi ho? (Meher, where are you going so early?)

Meher - To the Roys'. Kal raat jo kuch hua, uske baare mein baat karni hai. (I need to talk about what happened last night.)

Isha - concerned
Sab theek hai na? Tum dono ke beech kuch to hua hai. (Is everything okay? Something definitely happened between you two.)

Meher - nodding slightly
Haan, lekin sab theek karne ki koshish kar rahi hoon. Just pray that everything works out. (Yes, but I'm trying to fix everything.)

Isha - getting up and walking towards Meher
You don't need to go there alone; I'll come with you.

Meher - shaking her head
Nahi, Isha. This is something I have to do alone. You understand, right?

Isha - sighing, but understanding
Alright. But if you need anything, just call me. I'll be there right away.

Meher - smiling gratefully
I'll let you know for sure. You just stay here and handle everyone.

Isha - giving her a hug
You're brave, Meher. Everything will be fine.

Meher gives her a small smile before heading out the door, her resolve firm despite the uncertainty in her heart.
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-Arriving at the Roys' House

Meher arrives at the Roys' house, her heart pounding in her chest. She hesitates at the door before ringing the bell. Shakuntala opens the door, her expression softening when she sees Meher.

Shakuntala - warmly
Meher beta, tum yahan? Sab theek hai na? (Meher, you're here? Is everything okay?)

Meher - nervously
I need to apologize to you and everyone. I'm responsible for what happened last night.

Before Shakuntala can respond, Aditya walks past in the hallway, his gaze avoiding Meher completely. Her heart sinks at the sight of his cold indifference.

Meher - voice trembling
I've realizes my mistake. Please forgive me.

Shakuntala - gently guiding Meher inside
Beta, tumne koi galti nahi ki. Tumhari koi galti nahi thi, bas waqt aur haalaat aise the. (you didn't make any mistake. It wasn't your fault; it was just the circumstances.)

Meher - looking down, feeling guilty
But whatever happened, it affected Aditya. And it all happened because of me.

Shakuntala - soothingly
Why do you blame yourself so much, Meher? This isn't your responsibility.

Meher - softly
I just want Aditya to be okay. I can't see him in so much pain.

Shakuntala - reassuring
Your love and support are the cure, Meher. Your presence will heal his wounds.