RESTART

chapter 13

The day had finally arrived for Jeevika and Abhiman’s trip to London. The excitement in the house was palpable as Jeevika packed the last of her things. Her thoughts wandered between the promise of a new adventure and the quiet anxiety of being away from familiar surroundings.

As Abhiman entered their bedroom, his gaze fell on Jeevika’s packed bags. He had a broad smile on his face, a mixture of anticipation and affection. "Sab kuch ready hai?" he asked, leaning against the doorframe.

Jeevika looked up, trying to hide her nervousness behind a bright smile. "Haan, sab kuch ready hai. Tumhare saath London jaane ke liye excited hoon."

Abhiman walked over and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close. "Mujhe bhi. Tumhare saath yeh trip aur bhi khaas hone wali hai."

Their moment was interrupted by the sound of honking outside. Abhiman’s driver had arrived to take them to the airport. They exchanged a last look around the room before heading out, excitement and anticipation in their steps.

The flight to London was smooth, and as they landed, the crisp London air greeted them. The city was bustling with activity, its charm palpable in every street corner. Abhiman’s business meetings would keep him busy during the day, but he had promised Jeevika that the evenings would be theirs to explore.

Their hotel was a luxurious blend of classic charm and modern amenities. As they settled into their room, Abhiman looked at Jeevika, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Toh, sabse pehle kya karna hai? Shopping, sightseeing, ya phir dinner?"

Jeevika’s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Sab kuch. Pehle thoda sightseeing, phir shopping, aur dinner mein tumhare saath kahin romantic jagah pe jana hai."

Abhiman grinned and took her hand. "Chalo, aaj hum London ki khoj shuru karte hain."

The couple spent their first day exploring iconic landmarks—Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Jeevika was in awe of the historic architecture and vibrant energy of the city. Abhiman, who had been to London before, enjoyed showing her around and explaining the history behind each place.

As evening approached, they headed to a quaint little restaurant by the Thames River. The view of the river illuminated by the city lights was breathtaking. They enjoyed a candlelit dinner, sharing stories and laughter, and for the first time in a while, Jeevika felt completely at ease.

Abhiman reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "Tumhe kaisa lag raha hai? London mein tumhara pehla din?"

Jeevika squeezed his hand and smiled. "Bahut acha. Main yeh nahi keh sakti ki main yeh sab kuch expect kar rahi thi, lekin yeh trip humare liye special ban gaya hai."

As they finished their dinner and walked hand in hand along the riverbank, Jeevika couldn’t help but feel that this trip was more than just a getaway. It was a chance for them to reconnect, to strengthen their bond, and to find joy in each other’s company.

The next few days were filled with more exploration—visits to museums, shopping at Harrods, and relaxing in Hyde Park. Each day was a new adventure, and every evening was a romantic escape.

One evening, as they strolled through Covent Garden, Abhiman pulled Jeevika aside into a quiet corner. The area was bustling with street performers and tourists, but in their little nook, it was peaceful.

"Jeevika," Abhiman said softly, his eyes serious, "I want to thank you for coming with me. This trip has meant a lot to me, not just because of the business, but because of you."

Jeevika’s heart swelled with emotion. "Abhiman, mujhe bhi yeh trip bahut important lagti hai. Tumhare saath waqt bitaana, tumhe aur behtar jaan paana… yeh sab mere liye bahut special hai."

Abhiman leaned in, his forehead resting against hers. "I’m glad. Because for me, it’s not just about the places we visit, but the moments we share."

Their tender exchange was interrupted by a sudden burst of laughter from a nearby street performer. They both laughed, the sound mingling with the lively ambiance around them.

As they continued their walk, the romance of the city seemed to envelop them, making each moment more magical than the last. Abhiman and Jeevika were not just tourists in London; they were rediscovering each other in a new, beautiful setting.

The trip was everything they had hoped for and more—a perfect blend of romance and adventure, with each day bringing them closer together. And as they prepared to head back home, both felt a renewed sense of connection and understanding.

The journey had been more than a vacation; it was a new beginning for them, a chance to build memories and cherish each other more deeply.

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