Beneath the Ashes

Chapter 10

Aika Hinabana stood outside Sharva Casimir’s door, her heart fluttering softly, a delicate blend of anticipation and unspoken longing. She took a slow, calming breath, smoothing her skirt with trembling fingers and tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. This is it, she thought, feeling a fragile thrill course through her—a chance to edge closer to the man who had woven himself into her thoughts like threads of moonlight, subtle yet impossible to ignore. She raised her hand, letting her knuckles brush the door in a soft, tentative rhythm, hoping the quiet knock would somehow convey the eagerness simmering beneath her composed exterior.

“Hello?” Her voice was barely a whisper, carrying a tremor of anticipation, almost as if afraid to shatter the stillness. She could feel the weight of possibilities lingering behind the door. Sharva was a mystery, a puzzle with edges she yearned to fit together. His invitation had sparked a joy she hadn’t known in years, but now, with her hand hovering mid-air, a flicker of doubt crept in. What if… what if this world of his hides shadows deeper than I can imagine? She dismissed the thought with a steadying breath, determined not to let uncertainty cloud the tender hope she held close to her heart.

The door eased open with a soft creak, and there he stood, silhouetted in the warm light of his home. Sharva’s gaze fell upon her, his expression shifting from surprise to something gentler, more intense—a glimmer of curiosity softened by warmth. “Oh… hello,” he murmured, visibly caught off guard, though his lips curved into a hesitant smile. His eyes lingered on her for a moment, taking in the graceful simplicity of her baby-doll dress, its soft lines a blend of innocence and elegance. Regaining his composure, he stepped aside with a gesture that was both respectful and welcoming. “Please, come in.”

Aika stepped past him, catching a trace of his scent—sandalwood, deep and earthy, mingling with a hint of something uniquely his, a fragrance that seemed to stir her senses. It wrapped around her, grounding her as if she had entered a realm suspended outside time.

“I’m glad you’re here,” he said as he closed the door, his voice a quiet resonance, warm and slightly unsteady. His gaze held hers a moment longer before he gestured toward the softly lit living room. “Please, make yourself comfortable. Can I offer you anything? Tea, perhaps?”

Aika’s face softened into a genuine smile, a gentle warmth unfurling in her chest at his thoughtfulness. The ambiance of his home felt like an embrace, with the scent of sandalwood weaving its way into her senses. “Thank you, Sharva. That’s very kind,” she replied, her voice carrying a soft melody of delight that seemed to linger in the air. She settled herself on the plush couch, crossing her legs gracefully, letting the fabric of her dress fall in soft folds around her.

From her seat, she watched him move in the kitchen, captivated by the fluidity of his motions. Sharva moved with a quiet grace, each action deliberate and precise, as though he was performing an ancient ritual. She found herself smiling as she watched him, a silent appreciation for the elegance he brought to even the simplest acts.

Sharva focused intently as he measured the green tea leaves, pouring steaming water over them in a glazed ceramic pot. The fragrant warmth rose in delicate curls, filling the room with a comforting aroma. When he returned, his gaze found Aika, seated beautifully on the couch, her posture radiating a serene grace. For a brief moment, he let his eyes linger on her, his heartbeat quickening.

“Oh, forgive me,” he murmured, a faint blush rising to his cheeks. “I didn’t mean to stare… it’s just… you’re quite captivating.” He set the teapot and two delicate cups on the small wooden table between them, then took his seat across from her, his hands folding in his lap as if grounding himself against the rush of emotions she stirred within him. “The tea will be ready in a few moments.”