PHIR MOHABBAT

The Canvas that Leads to the Crossroad of Hearts (6)

[Okay! So for chapter 6, I wrote a bit longer one, I shall be updating more regularly now as I had vowed to my dearest readers, so here I am, proving that I love my readers and their feedback keeps me going.
yours truly, Sher. ]

The afternoon sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the balcony where Saad and Sehrzeen sat on two bamboo benches. They had wandered there after lunch, and now, a comfortable silence enveloped them.

Sehrzeen
Rummaging through her bag
"Do you want to see something?"

Saad
Leaning forward, intrigued
"Absolutely."

She opened the sketchbook, revealing a series of delicate pencil drawings.

Saad
Eyes wide
"Wow! These are amazing!"

Sehrzeen
Blushing slightly
"Thank you! I've been sketching since I was a child."

Saad
Impressed
"You've really captured the essence of this place."

Sehrzeen
Flipping through the pages
"It helps me express what I see... and feel."

Saad
Suddenly inspired
"Would you like to see something?"

Sehrzeen
a bit surprised,
Sure?

Saad
With a hint of shyness
"Come"

Sehrzeen
Curious
"Come on, tell me, what is it?"

Saad
Nervous but excited
"Sure. It's not much, but... I'll show you."

He led her to a small grassy area under a sprawling oak tree in the garden area and pulled out a compact easel and a small collection of paints. It was a shade that Saad had kept beautifully clean.

Saad
Inspired
"Did you know I paint too?"

Sehrzeen
Eyes lighting up
"I had no idea! What do you paint?"

Saad
With a hint of shyness again
"Mostly landscapes and sunsets."

Sehrzeen
Curious
"Can I see you paint someday? I'd love to see how you do it."

Saad
Setting up
Of course. I can show you right away.
I usually start with the background first.

As he started to paint, he could feel her gaze upon him.

Sehrzeen
Admiringly
"You're really talented, Saad."

Saad
Gaining confidence
"Thanks. It's all about feeling, really. Just like your sketches."

When he stepped back to admire his work, the moment felt electric.

Sehrzeen
Sincerely
"I wish I could paint like you."

Saad
Smiling
"It's just practice. You've got a talent too, Sehr. Your sketches are beautiful."

Their eyes locked, and he reached for her hand, brushing against hers.

Saad
Hesitant yet hopeful
"Do you want to try painting with me?"

Sehrzeen
Breath hitching, smiling
"I'd love that."