Marked By Darkness

Chapter 73- Choices and Reflections

Ruhi's POV...

The sunlight filtered through the trees as we stepped out of the car, the vibrant energy of the shopping district welcoming us with its mix of bustling people and colorful storefronts. Esha, Anshi, and I were on a mission today-not for clothes or trinkets, but for something far more important: some peace of mind for me.

As we entered the first store, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. I had been trying so hard to push everything-Ruhan, the curse, the haunting thoughts of Hina-away, and here I was, pretending to be carefree. But I could see it in Esha and Anshi's eyes, their concern for me hidden behind the playful chatter and the jokes they tossed my way.

The clothes didn't matter much to me, but I let them pick out a few things-jeans, tops, and even some bright-colored scarves they insisted I try on. It was all laughter and teasing as I slipped into the changing rooms. Esha had chosen a lavender dress for me, saying it would make my eyes look "less haunted" and more alive, and I had to admit, the color did make me feel lighter, at least for a moment.

We spent a few hours walking from store to store, shopping for anything and everything, while I did my best to forget the weight of what was really on my mind. It wasn't easy. The constant tug of my emotions-Ruhan, the curse, and the overwhelming pressure to keep my family's legacy from swallowing me whole-was always there, just beneath the surface.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to a nearby restaurant. The bright lights and warm ambiance seemed like the perfect place for us to sit and relax. We were seated at a small corner booth, and soon we were all sipping on iced lemonades and chatting away like we had no care in the world. But, of course, my mind couldn't escape the questions swirling within.

Esha leaned back in her seat, glancing at Anshi, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "So, Anshi," she teased, "when are you going to tell us about Neil?"

Anshi's face turned a shade of pink as she cleared her throat. "I don't know what you're talking about."

We all laughed, and for a moment, the tension in my chest loosened. But then Esha's gaze shifted to me, her tone more serious now.

"What about Sounak?" she asked. "Did he propose to you, or is that still up in the air?"

I shook my head, a small frown tugging at my lips. "No, he hasn't," I said quietly.

Anshi was watching me intently, and I could feel her eyes on me. After a beat, she asked, almost hesitantly, "What about Ruhan?"

I froze, my fork paused halfway to my mouth as I looked at her in surprise. "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Anshi didn't back down. "I just want to ask you, Ruhi," she began, her voice soft yet insistent. "Is Ruhan treating you right? When he's around, do you feel safe with him? Does he make you feel protected?"

I smiled softly, the warmth spreading through me as I thought about that night. "Yes," I answered honestly. "When he was with me that night, I felt safe. I felt protected. I felt... like I could breathe again. Like everything was okay, even if just for a moment."

Anshi paused, her eyes thoughtful, and then she spoke again, her tone much gentler. "Ruhi, I know this is complicated, and I know it's hard for you. But listen to me-maybe you should consider marrying him. You deserve peace, Ruhi. You deserve to feel safe all the time. And I think Ruhan is the one who can offer you that."

Esha and I both looked at her, startled.

"What?" Esha asked, her voice a mix of disbelief and concern. "Are you serious?"

I turned to Anshi, unable to hide my confusion. "Marry him? Are you out of your mind, Anshi? I love someone else."

Anshi looked at me kindly, but there was no hesitation in her voice. "I understand, Ruhi. I really do. But you need to ask yourself something-who do you really need? Who has always been there for you, even when you were fighting for your life? Who do you think truly understands you?"