Crossroads of love: Enstranged or Adultery?

A Warm Hug and a Difficult Choice

 Hey, everyone! I'm dedicating this chapter to one of my readers who's been with me since the very beginning of my story.

Hey everyone, there was an error on Wattpad, not my fault. I uploaded the chapters correctly, but they got mixed up. I'll continue the story from 'A Sip of Wine, A Touch of Intimacy' in this chapter instead of 'A Love-Filled Reward.

Nandini slowly blinked her eyes open, the soft glow of the evening sun painting the room in a warm hue. As consciousness returned, she felt a gentle weight on her waist and a familiar warmth against her side. Turning her head, she found Manik sleeping peacefully beside her, his chest rising and falling rhythmically.

A smile crept across her face as she remembered their day together. The laughter, the shared drinks, the intimate moments that had unfolded in a haze of shared joy. Though they hadn't crossed the line, the connection they'd forged felt profound and intimate. Nandini was grateful for the unspoken understanding between them, for the way they'd allowed their feelings to develop naturally without pressure.

As she drifted back into her thoughts, Manik stirred. His eyes met hers, and a playful glint danced in his gaze. Before she could react, he began tickling her sides, his laughter mingling with hers as she tried to wriggle away.

Nandini: Stop! (she gasped, her voice barely audible over their shared mirth. )I can't take it anymore!

When he finally relented, leaving her breathless and giggling, he asked.

Manik: What were you thinking about so deeply?

Nandini met his gaze, her heart pounding. 

Nandini: I was just thinking about today... about how happy I am that we're together. And I'm glad we didn't rush into anything more.

Manik's (expression softened. ): I felt the same way. I don't want to rush us, Nandini.

A wave of relief washed over her. She reached out and took his hand, squeezing it gently. 

Nandini: I'm glad.

Hearing this, Nandini's heart warmed, and she hugged him tightly. After a moment, she pulled back and said with a smile.

Nandini: Let's have some coffee.

Manik glanced at the clock and hesitated. 

Manik: I actually need to go see Myeesha. I promised her we'd spend the evening together.

Nandini nodded, a thoughtful look crossing her face.

Nandini: Manik, you should have told me earlier. We could have wrapped up sooner. I want you to spend time with Myeesha. Both parents should be present for their children.

Manik stared at her, touched by her selflessness. She wasn't thinking of herself but of his daughter, making sure she felt loved by both of them. His emotions stirred, and in a rare moment of tenderness, he leaned in and kissed her forehead gently.

Manik: Thank you. (He whispered, his voice thick with emotion.)

Nandini smiled and, with a playful push, urged him out of bed. 

Nandini: Go on, then! Myeesha's waiting for you.

Manik chuckled, standing up. 

Manik: Okay, okay, I'm going. See you later. (He said, giving her one last glance before heading out the door, feeling more grateful for her than ever.)

****

Manik arrived at Prena's house in the early evening, his heart warming as he saw Myeesha run up to greet him. He hugged her tightly, feeling the bond between them grow stronger each day. After a few minutes of catching up, he turned to Prena with a smile.