Together Forever

Chapter 5

Anika's POV

What is he doing here?I thought, panic rising. Wait, how does he know I'm here? Am I hallucinating?

Just then, he spoke, "How long do you plan on staring at me like that?"

I snapped out of my thoughts, realizing that he was actually standing in front of me.

"Why are you here? And how do you know I live here? And why-"

"Wait, wait," he interrupted, holding up his hand. "So many questions at once?"

I clamped my mouth shut, feeling flustered and completely thrown off by his sudden appearance.

"Don't worry, I didn't stalk you. Pranav told me the way to your house."

"Wait, you asked him? Why did you-"

"Let me complete, madam," he cut in with a raised eyebrow. "I didn't ask him. Yesterday, when you were leaving, I asked if you live far or close by. Then Pranav just told me where you live. I promise, I didn't ask for it."

"But why are you here?" I asked, still trying to wrap my head around the situation.

"To check on you," he replied with a nonchalant shrug.

"Check on me?"

"Yeah, you messaged that you were sick, so I was passing by and thought of checking on you."

Ah, shit, Anika, plan backfired, I silently cursed myself, realizing how poorly my excuse had played out.

"You didn't need to. I'm just fine," I insisted, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Really?" he asked, stepping closer and reaching out to check my forehead.

I quickly jerked his hand away. "I said I'm fine, Uday. Just a little cough," I added, faking a cough for emphasis.

"Uh-huh, okay," he replied, clearly unconvinced.

Then, with a playful smile, he asked, "Can you give me a chair?"

"Why?"

"You're not going to invite me inside, so I'll just sit on a chair outside."

I hesitated. Should I let him in? He's alone... but refusing him outright would be rude.

Finally, I sighed, stepping aside. "I'm sorry. Please, come in."

Uday smiled warmly and entered my home. As he looked around, he remarked, "Your house looks beautiful, just like you."

I felt a flush of warmth creep up my cheeks. "Umm, thanks," I replied softly, unsure of how to respond to his compliment.

He settled onto the sofa, his demeanor relaxed as if he belonged there. I, however, chose the armchair across from him, feeling a need for some distance. "Would you like some coffee or tea?" I offered, trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy.

"No need," he said, shaking his head. " Just rest; I don't need anything."

"But you're my guest. I can't let you leave without offering you something," I insisted, rising from my seat, more out of a sense of obligation than desire.