Myth Busters

7. The first night

The room remained silent as the bombshell dropped by Neel hung in the air. Everyone could feel the tension and emotion weighing down the moment. No one had expected the night to take such a serious turn, and the reality of Neel's decision left a bitter shock that none of them were prepared for. 

The lighthearted banter faded had faded long before, Amara's face froze in disbelief, Varun, standing by the side, looked like he'd been slapped across the face. His arms dropped to his sides, and he let out a long, slow exhale, running a hand through his hair.

Shivin, always the most composed blinked twice, processing what was happening, then let out an exasperated sigh. There was no trace of a smile on his face, just a look of deep disapproval.

Sana and Samantha, who had been giggling earlier, were now sitting completely still, their expressions morphing from amusement to confusion. They exchanged silent questions, wondering if they'd misunderstood something. Pallavi wasn't one to jump into the fray, but the news clearly affected her. Pallavi had always known the closeness between Neel and Amara, and seeing it unravel like this unsettled her deeply.

Amara:

(Her eyes narrowed low, trembling voice) This isn't a joke, right? (She stood just a foot away from him, her gaze piercing as he shook his head in no) You're just going to quit? Walk away like this? After everything? (her voice raising after every word).

Neel:

(moving closer to Amara took a deep breath) Amara, (held her from her shoulder and guided her to the nearest chair) I know this is hard to understand, but I need you to listen, I'm not doing this because I want to leave you hanging. You mean the world to me, you know that. But I can't keep pretending that I'm doing everything right. I've let you down, more than once, and I can't be the reason you miss out on important things. You deserve someone who's fully capable of being there for you every step of the way. hmmm... (after a long pause) I've thought about this for a while, Amara. I need you to trust me,

Amara:

(Holding his hand) i know Neel, i do trust you but...you are family, (holding back her tears) i can't lose you. (with trembling lips in a low whisper) please don't go...

Neel:

(with a small smile) No, you would never lose me, I'll always be there for you, just not in this way anymore. Come on kiddo, cheer up, you know i love you the most, And if you keep looking this serious, people might start thinking I'm the one breaking up with you or something, wait... let me tell you a secret, (in a low whisper) you are my favorite Bhavnani, i swear....*hey, don't hit me now! i made you smile, AMARA!

Everyone, who had been holding their breath throughout the emotional exchange, let out a collective sigh of relief.

Varun:

(chuckled softly, shaking his head) Neel, always knows how to turn a scene around

Shivin:

(smirked) Always the drama Queen! So... what's the decision now? Come on, we're all still waiting for your stupid plan.

Everyone else glanced at Shivin, sensing his sarcastic tone but also curious about what Neel was going to do next. Even Varun smirked at his brother's bluntness, though there was an undertone of genuine interest in Shivin's question.

Neel:

(stood up straight, brushing off his clothes preparing for another grand announcement) Well, after much thought and reflection ----------- I've decided... to stick around but i want you to understand that There's still work I need to catch up on, things I haven't handled yet. I'm not stepping away completely, but for a while... I think it's best if Rudra takes over.