Marked By Darkness

Chapter 71- Awakening Bonds

Ruhi's POV...

A soft weight rested on my shoulder, warm and steady. I blinked my eyes open, feeling a bit disoriented as I realized that my head was resting on... Ruhan. We'd fallen asleep on the couch, his arm still wrapped loosely around me, as if even in sleep he wanted to keep me safe.

I shifted slightly, and he opened his eyes just as I looked up, our gazes locking in a moment that felt longer than it should. His dark eyes, softened by sleep, held mine. The usual guarded expression he wore had faded, replaced by something warm and gentle. The doorbell rang again, breaking the spell, and I quickly pulled away, feeling my cheeks heat up.

"I... I'll get that," I stammered, getting to my feet and practically rushing to the door, grateful for the distraction.

When I opened the door, Anshi was standing there, hands on her hips, looking mildly annoyed. "Finally!" she exclaimed, stepping inside. "I was beginning to think you weren't home."

Before I could respond, she spotted Ruhan, who had just sat up, rubbing his eyes as he looked at us both. He offered Anshi a small smile. "Morning, Anshika."

Anshi's eyes widened as she looked between us, then leaned in close to me, lowering her voice. "Did he... stay over last night?"

I nodded, and she shot me a look of pure delight, whispering, "Oh my God!" before stepping into the kitchen with a mischievous grin.

I followed her quickly, feeling a mix of embarrassment and something else I couldn't quite name. "What are you doing here this early, anyway?" I asked, trying to sound casual.

She turned to me, eyebrows raised. "Early? Ruhi, it's 11 o'clock. You know, morning is almost over?"

"Oh..." I mumbled, feeling sheepish. I hadn't realized how late it was.

Anshi reached into the bag she'd brought, pulling out several containers. "Mom sent lunch for us. She made extra for you and said I had to stay and make sure you were eating well." She paused, giving me a knowing smile. "So, I'm here for a little quality time and to see how you're doing. Are you... better now?"

I nodded, touched by her thoughtfulness. "Tell your mom thank you. Really, Anshi, I'm okay. I'll be fine."

Anshi smiled softly. "Well, that's good to hear. And hey," she added, her eyes twinkling, "I guess I wasn't the only one worried about you."

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Ruhan's POV...

I could hear their quiet conversation from the kitchen, and I couldn't help but smile as I caught snippets of Ruhi's embarrassed responses. Anshika's energy was refreshing, and it was clear she cared deeply for Ruhi, even if she was teasing her a little.

I thought about the way I'd woken up this morning, Ruhi resting against me, her presence so calming and right. I shook my head, trying to shake off the thought. I hadn't planned to stay last night, but somehow I couldn't bring myself to leave her alone.

Ruhi emerged from the kitchen, her cheeks slightly flushed, and gave me a sheepish look. "Anshika brought lunch... for all of us," she said.

I nodded, standing up to join them. "Sounds good. I'll help set the table."

We moved around each other, setting plates and arranging food, exchanging quiet glances that made my heart skip. It was strange how natural it felt, being here with her like this, sharing these small, ordinary moments.

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Ruhi's POV...

Lunch was filled with laughter and warmth, thanks to Anshi's lighthearted banter. She kept throwing glances between Ruhan and me, smirking each time we exchanged an awkward look or laugh.