The late afternoon light poured into the small study where Vikram and Mehek sat, each lost in their own thoughts. But something was different that day-the silence between them was no longer harsh or cold; it was calm, almost comfortable. They had begun sharing small moments, as though an unspoken truce had been called.
Vikram cleared his throat, glancing up from his book. "Mehek, would you like some tea? I was about to make myself a cup."
Mehek looked up, slightly surprised but nodded. "Yes... tea would be nice."
He rose, heading to the small kitchen, returning moments later with two steaming cups. Setting hers down gently, he took a seat beside her. She hesitated but finally took a sip, feeling the warmth spread through her hands.
After a moment, Vikram spoke again. "So... I heard you used to paint? I came across an art book of yours."
Mehek looked at him, a flicker of surprise softening her usually guarded expression. "I did, a long time ago," she murmured, a hint of sadness in her voice. "I haven't painted since... since before everything changed."
Vikram nodded, his gaze steady and understanding. "If you ever want to start again, I could help set up a space for you," he offered, his tone gentle. "You could paint whatever you like... if it would make you feel happier."
She looked at him, her expression unreadable. "Why are you doing this, Vikram?" Her voice was quiet, almost vulnerable. "We've been strangers all this time, and now..."
"Because I want to see you happy, Mehek," he said simply. "We might not have chosen this marriage, but that doesn't mean we can't find... something good in it."
For the first time, her guarded eyes softened, and she looked away, almost shy. "I don't know if I can," she whispered. "Trusting people... it doesn't come easily to me."
Vikram took a deep breath, his voice steady. "I know. And I'm not asking you to trust me right away. Just... give me a chance. We don't have to stay strangers."
There was a long pause as Mehek considered his words. Finally, she nodded, just slightly, but it was enough to give Vikram hope.
She glanced back at him, something softer in her gaze. "Maybe... we can try."
A faint smile appeared on Vikram's face, and he lifted his cup. "To new beginnings?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Mehek hesitated, but then, for the first time, she allowed herself a small smile. She lifted her cup, tapping it lightly against his. "To... new beginnings."
As they sipped their tea, a newfound warmth settled between them, delicate and tentative, but unmistakably there. For the first time, the walls between them began to fade, replaced by the possibility of friendship-and maybe, one day, something more.
YOU ARE READING
The Mafia heart ( book 1 )
RomanceVikram Singh Rathore - was a man of power and influence in the criminal underworld. He was known for his ruthlessness and cunning tactics that had helped him rise to the top of the mafia hierarchy. With his sharp mind and fearless demeanor, he had e...
