Aarohi And Dev

CHAPTER 54

Aarohi POV

I lost track of how long I had been asleep, each moment blending into the next. Each time I woke, I found myself silently sobbing, desperate to escape the memories clawing at my mind. I wished I could erase them, but their grip was too strong. Through it all, Dev, Devika, and Aunty remained by my side, constantly checking in on me, their presence a reminder of the warmth I so desperately needed. Their unwavering support was a lifeline, yet the shadows of my past loomed large, making it difficult to find solace in their kindness.

As my eyes blinked open one moment, the heaviness in my head had eased just slightly, though my body still felt drained. My gaze settled on him—Dev, sitting by my side, his hand holding mine, his eyes closed as though he hadn’t moved for hours.

Despite his exhaustion, he remained there, unwavering. His body looked weary, and as I gently moved closer, my fingertips instinctively reached out, brushing against his lashes—long and delicate. Slowly, my fingers traced the contour of his cheekbone, then travelled to his lips. Soft and beautiful. He was beautiful, undeniably so.

Just as I was lost in the thought, his voice cut through the silence, deep and teasing, "Want to feel it?" His eyes opened, the closeness between us suddenly all too real, sending a jolt through me.

Startled, I quickly withdrew my hand from his lips, heat rushing to my face. "You should have slept comfortably on the bed," I stammered, feeling flustered and shy under his gaze.

He gave a lazy smile, his eyes never leaving mine. "Couldn't leave you alone, Rose," he murmured, his voice still carrying that gentle warmth that made my heart flutter, even in the midst of all the chaos.

"Are you feeling okay?" Dev whispered, his voice soft but filled with concern, as he leaned in closer. His presence was so intense, so palpable, that it momentarily took my breath away. His eyes, unwavering and deep, seemed to search mine for any signs of pain. I nodded, but the weight of his gaze lingered on me, making my pulse quicken.

"You should rest," I murmured, my concern for him slipping into my voice. The way he was always there for me, never faltering, made my heart swell.

"Rest would be easier if I had your arms around me," he teased, the playful tone in his words drawing out a small smile despite myself. His charm had a way of easing the tension, and I felt my heart race as I smiled, shy but warmed by his teasing.

"Breakfast first," he suggested, taking my hand as we stood. His touch was gentle yet grounding, providing the comfort I needed as we walked toward the dining room. The warmth of his hand in mine felt like a promise—a promise of safety and understanding.

As we entered, Devika was already seated, her expression lighting up dramatically. "Bhabhi, let’s eat! I’m starving!" she exclaimed, her exaggerated hunger making me laugh—a real, genuine laugh that I hadn’t felt in days.

His mom greeted me with a warm smile, her presence calming. "Aarohi beta, I wasn’t sure what you would like, so I made a little bit of everything," she said kindly, and it touched me more than I could express. Her simple thoughtfulness made me miss my own family—my mother and brother—but I pushed those feelings aside, unwilling to let the past intrude.

"Thank you, Aunty," I said, walking toward her. "Everything looks wonderful, and trust me, I’m not picky," I added with a playful grin, hoping to bring some lightness to the room. In this moment, surrounded by warmth and care, I realized I was beginning to feel something I hadn’t in a long time—hope.

"Bhabhi, what are your plans for today?" Devika inquired, her radiant smile exuding a hopeful aura as if she was resolute in lifting my spirits amidst recent events.