whispers in DARK

Chapter 6

Keerthi felt her heart race at the weight of his question. “I want that, Krish. I really do,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “But I’m also afraid of what that means. It feels like there’s so much pressure.”

“I understand. But relationships are about partnership and trust. We need to be transparent about our feelings,” he replied, his expression earnest. “I’m not asking for anything formal right now, but I want us to explore this together, without fear.”

Keerthi nodded, taking a deep breath. “I want to do that too. I just wish we could ignore the world’s expectations and focus on us.”

Krish reached across the table, taking her hands in his. “Let’s promise to communicate openly about our feelings. No matter what happens, I want you to know that I’m here for you.”

Feeling reassured by his words, Keerthi felt a wave of relief wash over her. “Thank you, Krish. That means so much to me. I’m really trying to find my balance with everything.”

As they talked, Keerthi felt a renewed sense of hope. She realized that while there would always be outside pressures, what mattered most was the connection they shared and the commitment to navigate the uncertainties together.

Over the next few weeks, Keerthi and Krish continued to deepen their relationship. They visited art galleries, went hiking in the nearby hills, and spent evenings under the stars, talking about their dreams and aspirations. Each shared moment reinforced their bond and helped Keerthi feel more secure in her choices.

However, the shadows of societal expectations still loomed. Keerthi's phone rang one afternoon, and her heart sank as she saw it was Aditi calling.

“Hey, Aditi,” Keerthi answered, trying to sound cheerful.

“Keerthi! You have to come to the engagement party! It won’t be the same without you,” Aditi said excitedly.

Keerthi’s stomach churned. “I’ll try to make it, but things are a bit hectic for me right now.”

“Oh, come on! It’s going to be such a beautiful event, and everyone will be there. You don’t want to miss it,” Aditi insisted.

“Yeah, I know,” Keerthi replied, forcing a smile. “I just… I’m not sure if it’s the right time for me.”

“Why? Are you still with that boy, Krish?” Aditi’s voice turned serious. “You know your parents will want you to settle down soon. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.”

The weight of her words hit Keerthi like a ton of bricks. “I’m trying to find my own way, Aditi,” she said, her voice trembling slightly. “I appreciate your concern, but I need to do what feels right for me, not what’s expected.”

“I get it, but just think about it,” Aditi said softly. “We all want the best for you.”

As the conversation ended, Keerthi felt torn. Aditi’s excitement about her engagement contrasted sharply with her own feelings of uncertainty. She couldn’t shake the sense that time was slipping away, that everyone around her was moving forward while she stood still.

That evening, she met Krish at their favorite spot, a quaint little café known for its cozy ambiance. As they settled into their usual corner table, Keerthi felt her heart racing.

“Hey, everything alright?” Krish asked, noticing her distant expression.

“Not really. Aditi called and pressed me to attend her engagement party. I feel so conflicted,” she admitted, rubbing her temples. “Part of me wants to celebrate her happiness, but another part feels like I’m being pulled into a world I’m not ready for.”