RESTART

chapter 17

The past three months had been transformative for Jeevika and Abhiman. What had started as tentative steps into intimacy blossomed into a deep and unwavering connection. Their time in London had brought them closer, not just physically but emotionally. Every touch, every kiss, was a way of expressing their growing love for each other.

Back in India, their return home was met with warmth and excitement. Jeevika was busy showing everyone the souvenirs and gifts they had brought back. The joy on her face as she shared stories from their trip filled Abhiman's heart with contentment. He stood back, watching her animatedly recount their experiences, his eyes reflecting pride and love.

It had been a month since they returned, and while life had settled back into routine, Jeevika’s mind was far from at ease. She had been digging into her stepmother Kamini’s past and had uncovered something unsettling. Kamini had been married to one of her father’s employees and had a daughter, Janvi, with him. But the timeline didn’t add up. Kamini had divorced her first husband and married Jeevika’s father only five months before Janvi was born. Could Janvi’s biological father be someone else? And what did it have to do with Jeevika’s murder?

These thoughts swirled in her mind as she prepared dinner that evening. Distracted, she accidentally burned her hand while handling a hot pan.

During dinner, Jeevika tried to hide her discomfort, but Abhiman noticed her struggling to eat. His gaze fell to her hand, now wrapped in a cloth. Without a word, he began feeding her. She hesitated at first, feeling everyone’s eyes on them, but when she met his gentle, reassuring gaze, she relaxed and accepted his help.

The family exchanged smiles, touched by the silent love between the couple. Veer, never one to miss an opportunity, grinned mischievously. "Bhai, lagta hai bhabhi ke haath se khana banane ke alawa tumhe bhi khilana padega. Kitna pyaar karte ho, yaar!"

Riddhi chimed in, "Haan, aur waise bhi honeymoon ka asar dikh raha hai. Aap dono ke beech ki bonding toh aur bhi strong ho gayi hai!"

Jeevika blushed while Abhiman chuckled, shaking his head. After dinner, everyone retired to their rooms, leaving the couple alone.

As they settled into bed, Jeevika’s mind was still preoccupied with the troubling revelations about her stepmother. She felt Abhiman’s arms wrap around her, pulling her close. "Everything okay, jaan?" he murmured, his voice laced with concern.

Jeevika nodded, turning to look into his eyes. "Yeah, if you’re with me, everything will be okay." She leaned in and kissed him softly, then buried her face in his chest, seeking comfort in his embrace.

He smiled, his heart swelling with affection. He kissed her forehead tenderly. "I’m always with you, Jeevika. No matter what."

Held securely in his arms, Jeevika felt a sense of peace wash over her. Despite the uncertainties and the dark secrets she was unraveling, she knew she wasn’t alone. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead.

They drifted off to sleep, holding each other close, their hearts beating in sync. For now, in this quiet moment, all the worries faded away. With Abhiman by her side, Jeevika felt strong and hopeful, ready to confront the shadows of her past and build a future filled with love.

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