Short Stories collection

Shadow of silence(Final part)

The days after her book launch were a blur. Ruhi was swept up in a whirlwind of interviews, book signings, and social media buzz. The excitement of seeing her name printed on the cover of her own book, holding it in her hands, feeling the weight of it—it was everything she had dreamed of.

But there was a strange emptiness that lingered at the edges of her success. Despite all the applause, the congratulations, and the overwhelming sense of accomplishment, Ruhi couldn't shake the feeling that something important was missing. And it wasn't her writing.

It was **Maan**.

Every time she checked her phone, she found herself hoping for a message from him, even though he had always been there for her, supporting her from the shadows. She knew he was proud of her, but now that her life was changing so rapidly, she didn't know where she stood with him anymore. Their relationship had always been unspoken, and Ruhi felt herself at a crossroads, unsure of what path to take.

The constant noise of her success and the echoes of her family's dismissive attitude made it hard for her to focus. It was like she was in two worlds—one where her dreams were coming true, and another where she was still fighting for validation from those who didn't believe in her.

In the midst of this, Maan and his father, Parth, sat in the family's study one evening, deep in conversation. Parth looked at his son with a warm, understanding gaze, watching as Maan moved restlessly around the room.

"You look happy, Maan," Parth said, his voice full of pride.

Maan paused, a soft smile playing on his lips. "I am, Dad. I've never felt more certain about anything in my life."

Parth raised an eyebrow, curious. "I take it this has something to do with your new found friendship?"

Maan's smile deepened. "Yes, it's about her. But it's not new friendship you know, I missed her so much in America. Everything about her. She's the reason I feel this way. And have felt always. There's something so real about her, so pure, and I see so much of Mom in her. The kindness, the gentleness, the way she loves without expecting anything in return. I couldn't ask for more."

Parth leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. "I can see that, son. You've never spoken about anyone like this before. But you know, your mother would've adored her."

Maan's eyes softened. "I know. Mom use to. She really loved Ruhi. I remember her always appreciating her but Ruhi was very small, so was I. Ruhi reminds me of her, in all the best ways. She has that same quiet strength. And... I know that I want to spend my life with her. I don't need to rush, but I'll marry her, Dad. She's the one."

Parth nodded, his gaze unwavering. "I understand, Maan. You've made your intentions clear. But you're right—Ruhi needs time. She's growing, finding herself. You both need time to breathe and find your paths, separate and together. I don't want to poke nose between you guys, I know my children are enough mature to understand things themselves."

Maan nodded, his eyes distant for a moment. "I know she's going through a lot right now. Her family, her career—she's at a pivotal moment. She's finally taking control of her life, and that means everything to her. I want her to succeed, to be who she's meant to be, without any pressure from me."

"I can see you've thought this through," Parth said with a soft chuckle. "Don't worry, son. You're doing the right thing. Love isn't just about timing; it's about understanding. And you two understand each other better than anyone I've seen. And I am there, don't worry about anything."

Maan smiled, his heart lightened. "I'll wait for her. I'll give her all the time she needs. But when she's ready, I'll be there, Dad."

Parth gave his son a knowing look, his voice quiet but full of conviction. "Then go ahead and build that future, Maan. With her ."