Between Us

25. The Truth Reveals

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Rudra…

I was waiting for her, anticipation thrumming in my veins, when I heard a soft knock on the door. "Come in," I called out, my voice steady, though my heart was racing.

Aarohi stepped inside, looking hesitant. She was wearing a loose T-shirt and trousers, a simple outfit that still managed to take my breath away. She looked nervous, her eyes darting around the room, as if unsure of what to do next. I gave her a gentle smile and gestured for her to come to the bed.

She approached slowly, and as she sat down beside me, I reached out and placed my hand over hers. "Relax," I said softly, my thumb rubbing soothing circles on the back of her hand. "Nothing will happen without your permission, I promise."

Aarohi's tense shoulders seemed to relax at my words, and a small, grateful smile tugged at her lips. She leaned her head against my shoulder, and I wrapped my arm around her, pulling her closer. We sat there in a comfortable silence, holding hands, sharing a moment that felt both fragile and perfect.

For a while, neither of us spoke. The quiet was filled with a peaceful understanding, the warmth of her body against mine grounding me in a way I hadn’t felt in a long time. I could feel the rise and fall of her breath, steady and calming, as if syncing with my own.

After a few moments, Aarohi broke the silence. "Rudra, can I ask you something?" she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Sure, go ahead," I replied, my voice gentle, bracing myself for whatever was on her mind.

She pulled away slightly to sit up straight, turning to look at me, her expression earnest. "Who is that girl in the picture?" she asked softly, her eyes searching mine. It was the last question I had expected, and I felt a jolt go through me.

For a moment, I didn’t know what to say. That picture. I hadn’t thought about it in a long time, but of course, Aarohi would notice it. She deserved to know, especially if we were moving forward together. She had every right to know about my past.

I took a deep breath and sat up straight, giving her a small, reassuring smile.I made my way to the shelf where the frame was placed. I could feel her eyes on me, watching every move I made with a mix of curiosity and concern.

I picked up the picture, holding it in my hand for a moment, feeling the weight of the memories it held. "This...," I began, my voice steady but low, "is Shruti."

Aarohi's gaze remained fixed on me, waiting for more. I knew this was a conversation we needed to have, and now seemed as good a time as any. I turned back to face her, the picture still in my hand, and walked back to the bed, sitting down beside her.

"Shruti was someone I cared about deeply," I continued, my eyes meeting hers. "She was my... best friend.”

Aarohi's eyes widened slightly, but she didn’t say anything, letting me continue. I could see the questions forming in her mind, the pieces slowly coming together.