When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch 52. Secrets and Concerns

In the morning

Ishana couldn't shake off the lingering thoughts from the previous night's events and her conversation with Annika.

As they returned home after dinner, the routine of changing clothes became a solitary affair.

Annika retreated to her room, Aarav to the guest room, and Ishana to her own sanctuary. But solitude only amplified Ishana's turbulent thoughts.

Her mind replayed the subtle moments she had observed between Annika and Shivay. The surreptitious glances, the stolen loDoesoks, and the faint smiles exchanged when the other wasn't noticing.

"Has Annika's feelings shifted?" Ishana wondered.

"Does she now harbor feelings for Shivay, and not Aarav?" Ishana's thoughts swirled with anxiety.

The possibility unsettled Ishana, her concern for Annika's emotional well-being escalating.

She couldn't bear the uncertainty.

Ishana resolved to confront Annika, seeking clarity and reassurance.

With newfound determination, Ishana stepped out of her room and knocked on Annika's door.

"Annika, can we talk?" Ishana asked.

Annika, clad in cozy night clothes, was ready to surrender to the allure of sleep after a grueling day of setting up the shop. However, Ishana's persistent knock on the door interrupted her much-needed rest.

" Ishu, is it urgent?" Annika asked, her voice laced with fatigue. "I'm exhausted. Can we talk tomorrow?"

Ishana's response was firm.

"It's urgent, Annika."

Annika's concern shifted into high gear. She swiftly opened the door, took Ishana's hand, and guided her to the bed. As they sat side by side, Annika enveloped Ishana's hand in a reassuring grasp.

"What's wrong, Ishu?" Annika asked.

Her brow furrowed with worry.

"Is everything alright? Did something happen with Om, or at work, or with your family?"

Annika's voice was infused with protective instincts.

"Did someone upset you? Tell me, and I'll take care of them. You know I'm a karate and judo champion, don't mess with me!"

Annika's attempt at humor was a thin veil for her genuine concern.

Ishana's eyes locked onto Annika's.

"It's not about me but about you," Ishana said.

Annika's expression transformed.

"What about me?" Annika asked.

Ishana's eyes searched Annika's face, seeking truth, as she asked, "Annika, tell me honestly, why didn't you mention Shivay to me?"

Annika's expression softened, and she replied, "Ishu, like I said, I always mentioned him to you when discussing office, but I forgot to reveal his name and our blind date connection. Are you still upset about it?"

Ishana's voice cracked as she clarified, "I'm not angry, Annika, just hurt that I didn't know, and others do."

Annika's face reflected concern, and she reassured Ishana, "You're my best friend; why would I hide anything about him from you?"

Ishana accepted Annika's explanation but pressed on, seeking clarity on her feelings. "Okay, as you say, but Annika, do you feel anything towards him? What about your feelings towards Aarush? You know I've always wanted you as my bhabhi."