Love Beyond Everything

chapter -16

where the afternoon sun cast long shadows. The village was serene, with the gentle hum of daily life all around.

As she stepped into the room , Dhriti spotted her maa near a small temple with a lady who looks around her age , her hands folded in prayer. A small smile spread across Dhriti's face. She knew her maa's routine by heart.

After a few moments, Pranith’s mother finished her work and turned around.

“Maa ji,” Dhriti again said softly but a little louder, bowing her head in a gesture of respect.

“I’ve been looking for you. I wanted to make sure everything is okay and see if you needed anything.” said Dhriti

Pranith’s mother’s stern face softened slightly. She had always appreciated Dhriti's traditional values and her genuine care for the family. She reached out and touched Dhriti's  cheek gently.

“You are too good, Dhriti beta,” she said with a small smile.
“Always thinking about others. But now tell me, how was the journey? Is Pranith alright?”

Dhriti nodded. “He’s fine, Maaji. Just tired from the travel. I made sure he’s resting.” she said looking down.

Pranith’s mother chuckled softly.
“That son of mine, always so serious and tough on the outside. But I know he has a soft spot for you, even if he doesn’t show it.”

Dhriti smiled, a soft blush creeping up her cheeks.

“I know, Maa. H...he doesn’t say much, but I can see it in his a....actions.”said Dhriti blushing .

Just as they were sharing this quiet moment, they heard a loud voice coming from inside the house. It was Pranith, calling out for Dhriti.

“Dhriti! Where are you?” His voice was filled with a mix of irritation and little worry.

Dhriti quickly turned to her maa.
"Lagta hai bo utt gye hain main dek ke ati hu unko kya c..chaiye".
(I think he’s awake. I should go see what he needs.)

Pranith’s mother laughed lightly.

“Go, beta. That boy can’t seem to function without you. But remember, Dhriti, patience and love can melt even the hardest hearts.”

Dhriti nodded softly, giving her maa a quick kiss  before rushing back inside the house. As she entered the room, she found Pranith sitting up in bed, looking both annoyed and a little lost.

“Where did you go?” he asked, his voice gruff but his eyes softening slightly at the sight of her.

Dhriti couldn’t help but smile.
“I went to see Maaji. I wanted to make sure she was alright.”

Pranith huffed, trying to hide the relief that washed over him.
“You should have told me.I was just worried this environment is new to you.

Dhriti walked over to him, and blushed a little.
" jii I’m here now . There’s no need to w....worry I am feeling to safe.

He looked at her, his tough exterior momentarily cracking.
“You… you should stay close. I don’t want you wandering around alone here ok."

Dhriti nodded, not understanding why he is acting like that.
“I will not ji. I’m not going anywhere without telling  you.”

For a moment, there was a silence between them, filled with unspoken feelings and a growing bond that Pranith could not deny.

After 2 minutes of silence

“Why did you leave without telling me?” Pranith asked sharply, his voice carrying that familiar tone of authority.

Dhriti took a deep breath, keeping her voice sweet like honey.