Heartbeats Across Time

𝑪𝑯𝑨𝑷𝑻𝑬𝑹 8 : 𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔

𝕊𝕋𝔼𝔽𝔽𝕀

The sun peeked over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the tranquil island of Serenity Cove. The early morning air was crisp, and the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the shore created a soothing backdrop. I stood a short distance away, observing Akhil and Dev as they gazed out at the endless expanse of sparkling blue.

The villa where we were staying was a picturesque haven, just a brief walk from the beach. It offered an unobstructed view of the ocean, its pristine sands, and the gentle rise of the morning sun.

Prem joined me, having left our cozy room to start the day with the others. I couldn't help but notice the subtle change in Akhil since the previous evening. He appeared more relaxed, a smile gracing his lips-a rare sight in recent times. It was a transformation that filled both Prem and me with genuine happiness.

"Chetta," I said, turning to him with curiosity, "I noticed that Akhil seems a bit different this morning compared to last night. It's like he's finally letting go of some of his old worries."

Prem nodded, a bright smile illuminating his face. "Yes, I see it too. He's more at ease now. It's good to see him like this. It's been a while since we saw him so content."

My gaze was drawn to the bracelet on Akhil's wrist. "By the way, that bracelet he's wearing-it's not from you, is it?"

Prem's expression turned thoughtful. "No, it's not from me. I actually thought it might have been a gift from you."

I shook my head, laughter bubbling up softly. "No, it wasn't me. Dev and I bought a different gift for him. We got him a customized leather wallet with his initials embossed on it."

Prem looked puzzled. "But the bracelet wasn't there at the party last night. I saw him with it after returning from the store. So where did it come from?"

Realization hit me, and my eyes twinkled. "Chetta, I noticed that too. He was just staring at it with a smile all the way through our journey. Actually, I got up in the middle of the night and saw him still looking at it, smiling."

Prem leaned closer, his curiosity piqued. "Maybe it's from that girl he mentioned. He never directly told us, but it's definitely not Meghana. If it's someone special, I'm really thankful to them for making Akhil happy."

I nodded, my voice filled with emotion. "Whoever it is, I'm grateful too. I've sensed a change in Akhil's expressions, and even though we haven't seen him much in the past two years, it's clear something positive is happening."

Prem smiled warmly. "I hope that person feels the same way about Akhil. But enough about Akhil. What's going on between you and Dev?"

Heat rushed to my cheeks, looking both surprised and flustered. "Oh, stop teasing me, Chetta. There's nothing going on. It's just a friendly connection."

Prem raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile on his face. "From Dev's side I don't know about that. But I'm 100% confident from your side now, it looks like there's something more. Come on, tell me. I'm your brother."

I sighed, my cheeks still flushed. "Okay, fine. Yes, I have feelings for Dev, but I haven't told him yet. I'm just waiting for the right moment. I don't want to rush things or make things awkward."

Prem nodded approvingly. "Well, I think he might feel the same way. Just be honest with him. It'll work out."

As we approached Akhil and Dev, the sun began to rise fully, bathing the beach in warm, golden light. Akhil and Dev greeted us with cheerful waves.