Born to Love You

35- Playing house?

Aru's Pov:

I explained everything to Simmi and Lakshit, my voice quivering as I recounted the humiliating night and the harsh words Aryan had thrown at me. Their faces reflected a mix of sympathy and disbelief as they processed my story.

"I'm so sorry, Aru," Simmi said softly, her eyes wide with concern. "I can't believe you developed feelings for that monster. He's a total jerk."

Lakshit, however, remained stoic, his frown deepening. "You really shouldn't let someone like him get to you. He doesn't deserve your feelings, especially after how he treated you."

I sighed, feeling the weight of their judgments. "I know. But it's just... complicated. I thought maybe there was something more beneath his harsh exterior."

Simmi nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe he just needs some time. People can change, right? But you should definitely take it slow. You don't want to rush into anything."

Lakshit shook his head, clearly unimpressed. "No. You deserve better than someone who plays with your emotions. Trust me, Aru, that guy is trouble."

Their words provided a small measure of comfort, but the pain of my situation lingered like a dull ache. I tried to shift the conversation to something lighter, but it was hard to ignore the reality of my feelings.

As we talked, Lakshit opened up about his own struggles. "It's been rough at home," he admitted, his voice heavy. "Mom's health is getting worse." If he wasn't a topper, he would probably have failed by now. And I knew how much he loved his mom. She's a sweetheart too. She always made desserts for me and simmi whenever we visited. It's sad to see things like this

I felt a surge of empathy for him. Lakshit was always so strong, and yet I could see the toll it was taking. "I wish I could help you like I used to before I got married," I said, guilt washing over me. "You shouldn't have to deal with this all alone."

"I appreciate that, Aru. But I've got to handle it. It's just hard, you know?" He ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident on his face.

I could relate all too well. I needed an escape from the monster that was Aryan. I resolved to visit Lakshit and look after his mother for the day, if only to distract myself from my own chaotic life. "I think I'll go over to your place today," I said, determination setting in. "I can help with your mom, and it'll give me a break before the monster comes home."

Lakshit's expression softened. "Are you sure? I don't want you to feel obligated."

"I want to," I insisted, feeling a sense of purpose wash over me. "I need to get away from everything for a while."

As I gathered my things to leave, I felt a flicker of hope. Maybe, just maybe, spending time with Lakshit and his mom would help me clear my head and find some clarity amidst the mess of my emotions.

*

As I made my way to Lakshit's home, a sense of anticipation mixed with anxiety coursed through me. The sun was hidden behind a veil of gray clouds, casting a muted light on the streets. I took a deep breath, welcoming the change of scenery from Aryan's cold, dark house to the familiar warmth of Lakshit's family home.

When I finally arrived, the door swung open, and I was greeted by the faint aroma of spices wafting from the kitchen. Lakshit's mother, Aunty Meera, was sitting on the couch, her eyes lighting up at the sight of me. "Aru, dear! You're here!" she exclaimed, her voice warm and inviting.

"Aunty, I brought you some food!" I said, holding up the takeaway container from her favorite restaurant. It was a small gesture, but I knew how much she loved their homemade dal and rice.