Notes of Love

along with rythm

The morning in the Malhotra mansion felt different than usual, wrapped in an atmosphere of silent smiles and warmth that seemed to radiate from the very walls. Sunlight streamed through the grand windows, illuminating the dining table set with care. Nyeonka, Manik's mother, moved gracefully around the kitchen, her hands skillfully preparing aloo parathas, the aroma wafting through the air, instantly evoking a sense of nostalgia for Manik. 

He sat at the table, his heart swelling with an unfamiliar warmth as he shared this intimate moment with his parents. After years of feeling distant from them, this simple breakfast felt like a bridge rebuilding their once frayed connections.

As they settled down to eat, Samir, Manik's father, broke the comfortable silence with a teasing smile. "So, tell me more about Nandini," he prompted, his eyes glimmering with curiosity. 

Manik looked up, momentarily caught off guard. He stole a glance at his mother, who watched him with an encouraging smile, before turning back to his father. 

"She's just a friend," he mumbled, attempting to suppress the shy smile that crept onto his face. The warmth of the moment wrapped around him, making it hard to maintain his casual demeanor. "She's sweet and a really good musician," he added, feeling a sense of pride wash over him as he spoke of her.

Nyeonka chimed in, her tone light yet earnest. "You should invite her over sometime, along with Cabir and Mukti," she suggested, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. 

It was clear that she saw the potential for something more in Manik's friendship with Nandini, and the thought both excited and frightened him. He nodded, a small smile lingering on his lips. "Sure," he mumbled, a mix of anticipation and nerves swirling inside him. 

The idea of bringing Nandini into this warm space filled him with a sense of hope, a feeling that perhaps the distance he had felt for so long could truly close, both with his family and with her.

--

Nandini and Manik sat at a table in the canteen, laughter and playful banter swirling around them as their friends Mukti and Cabir engaged in their usual sibling-like squabble. Mukti, her voice laced with mock indignation, playfully smacked Cabir's arm. "You started it! You always do!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Cabir rolled his eyes, feigning innocence. "Me? Please, it's always you throwing the first punch. I'm just defending myself!" He puffed out his chest dramatically, earning a chuckle from Mukti, who retaliated with another playful jab to his side.

Nandini couldn't help but smile at their antics, taking a moment to savor her sandwich. As she relished each bite, she noticed Manik watching her, a hint of admiration in his gaze. Then, her heart raced as she felt a little smear of sauce on her lips. Without thinking, Manik reached out with his thumb, wiping it away in a gesture that sent a jolt of intimacy through the air. Their eyes locked briefly, and a soft smile lingered on their faces before they looked away, both feeling the warmth of the moment.

The atmosphere shifted when Mukti broke the spell with her enthusiastic announcement. "Nandu, we are planning for karaoke night at the club tonight! You have to join! I'll talk to Amms if I need to," she exclaimed, her excitement palpable.

"There will be so many people," Nandini mumbled, glancing at Manik, who was still watching her intently.

"Don't worry," Manik reassured her, his voice steady. "I'll be there with you. It's a great opportunity for you to overcome your stage fright." He gently took her hand, pressing it softly, and Nandini felt a wave of comfort wash over her.

As they finished their meal, Mukti and Cabir exchanged glances. "Are you ready for this, or do we need to prepare for Nandini's big performance?" Mukti teased, nudging Cabir.