Meera's distress worsened, her breaths coming in short gasps. She wasn't responding, lost in her own world. Harshith swiftly guided her outside, helping her sit in the living room.
"Meera, breathe," Harshith coaxed, trying to calm her down.
Meanwhile, Agastya remained in the room, his gaze fixed on the portrait. Abhyant. A familiar face.
Agastya's eyes narrowed. He knew this person. The guy from the nightmare.
Memories teased his mind, refusing to surface. Meera's scream still echoed in his thoughts. Was it this portrait that triggered her panic?
He needed answers.
Just then, Harshith called out, "Agastya, what are you still doing in there?"
Agastya turned, his expression guarded.
"Coming," he replied, his tone measured.
As he exited the room, Harshith's concerned face greeted him.
"Meera's not doing well," Harshith said, his voice low.
Agastya's priorities shifted. Meera's distress took precedence. He hastened to the living room, where Meera sat, her breathing labored.
Her eyes were wide with fear, her face pale. Harshith guided Agastya to her side.
"Bhai, madad kar uski," Harshith whispered.
(Bro, help her)
Agastya's gentle touch soothed Meera's trembling hands.
"Hey, I'm here," he whispered.
Meera's gaze locked onto his. Meera's eyes refocused as Agastya's voice cut through her haze.
"Here, drink this," he said, offering a glass of water.
She gulped it down, grateful for the reprieve. Agastya waited patiently, his eyes searching for answers. Meera sensed his unspoken question.
Why did she freak out? But she hesitated. Sharing her nightmares would sound insane.
Agastya would think she's lost her mind. The thought sent a shiver down her spine.
Meera fabricated a hasty excuse.
"I saw a rat," she said, trying to sound convincing.
Harshith burst into laughter.
"A rat?" he choked between chuckles.
Meera's face flushed. Agastya's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. He knew she lied.
Her voice, her eyes, her entire demeanor screamed deception. But he let it slide.
For now.
Having Meera by his side mattered more than the truth. He smiled warmly, his eyes crinkling.
"Well, no more rats, I promise," Agastya said.
Harshith's laughter gradually subsided.
"Sorry, Meera," he said, still grinning.
Meera's smile looked forced.
Agastya's arm wrapped around her shoulders.
"You're safe now," he whispered.
Meera leaned into his touch, her tension easing. The lie lingered, unspoken. But Agastya's acceptance soothed her.
For now, the truth could wait. As they sat together, the silence was filled with unspoken questions.
YOU ARE READING
Beyond The Palace Walls| ONGOING
Historical Fiction"Pyaar toh Aaj bhi hum unse utna hi karte hai, par ilzaar iss Janam mein shayad na ho paye" Meera's words went unheard as she sat in front of the mirror, dressed as bride. (Even today I love him the same amount, but maybe I won't be able to express...
