My Safe Haven

Chapter : 15: Those Six Years

Warning:- This chapter contains kidnapping, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse/rape, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, graphic violence, mature themes, emotional distress. Reader discretion is advised.⚠ 

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Recounting of the past events are in italic.

Saras's POV

When Saras and Aviraj entered the dining room, the others were already seated. Though they remained silent, the teasing glances sent their way made Saras squirm. He hastily guided Aviraj to the table, and they sat together, side by side.

Saatvik sat to Saras's left, while Rajat occupied the seat to Aviraj's right. As Saras relaxed, his gaze fell upon the tablespread. The array of dishes sparked an unexpected excitement within him. He had thought food would be the last thing to stir his enthusiasm, yet here he was, pleasantly surprised.

"Come on, eat up," Shashin encouraged, smiling.

Saras nodded, and the others began their meal. He took a bite of the Paneer Paratha, and its delicious flavor almost drew a moan from him.

"Enjoy today's breakfast, but be prepared – tomorrow's will be even more exciting." His father said with a playful glint in his eye.

Saras's confusion piqued, but he refrained from asking questions and simply nodded.

He focused on the paratha, savoring each bite. The flavors seemed to resonate deeply, as if the food spoke directly to his soul, stirring something within. Though his memories remained shrouded, the taste felt eerily familiar.

Saras continued eating, his mind still focused on the gathering's true purpose. He waited for someone to broach the subject, but the conversation flowed effortlessly around everything except that. Frustration simmered within him. He knew they were giving him time, but his own words seemed stuck. His brain faltered, unable to find the right phrase to initiate the discussion.

As the others finished their meals and prepared to rise, Saras felt a surge of urgency. He realized that if he didn't speak up, the topic might never be addressed.

He needed a catalyst, a gentle nudge to break the silence.

Saras's internal panic reached a boiling point when Saatvik's voice cut through the tension, "Suru, you look lost in thought. Care to share?" The casual question was precisely the nudge Saras needed. He mentally thanked his brother for the timely intervention. With newfound determination, Saras stood up, his eyes meeting the expectant gazes of the others. He gulped, steadying himself.

"I... I have something to share with you all," he announced, his voice firm.

The others nodded without hesitation and began to disperse, heading to wash their hands. Saras relaxed, grateful for the brief reprieve.

Saras gazed down at his plate, the single paratha a testament to his lingering struggles. Despite his love for the food, past habits and deep-seated trauma still lingered, threatening to turn every meal into a nauseating ordeal.

But I'll get better, he vowed to himself. I will bounce back.

Baby steps... Baby steps... he silently chanted, steeling himself.

With renewed determination, Saras rose to wash his hands.

In the kitchen, he found his brother and Aviraj waiting. Their supportive presence warmed his heart. He offered a gentle smile. In response, his brother pressed a reassuring kiss to his forehead, while Aviraj's gentle pat on the head spoke volumes.

Upon returning to the living room with Saatvik and Aviraj, Saras found everyone waiting. He glanced around, then outside, and asked, "Can we move to the garden?"