Abhira- Painfully Beautiful

Chapter 56- Akshara is shattered as she gets to know the truth

After 10 days

The warm morning light filters into the Goenka house. Swarna and Mimi sit in the living room, sipping tea and discussing Akshara's impending move. Both women wear somber expressions as they think about what lies ahead.

Swarna-I still can't believe Akshara and Abhir are leaving today. It's not going to be easy for her.

Mimi-No, it's not. But maybe this is for the best. Being here, so close to Abhimanyu, is only causing her more pain. If she's in Jaipur, it will give her a fresh start. And it'll make things easier for Aanchal and Abhimanyu too.

Swarna-I know you're right, but my heart aches for her. She's been through so much, and now she has to uproot her life again. All this just to avoid more heartbreak. How much more can she endure?

Mimi-Akshara is strong, but even she has her limits. We can only hope that this move will bring her the peace she deserves.

Akshara stands by her bed, staring at the neatly packed suitcases. Her face is a mix of determination and sadness. She adjusts the bangles on her wrist and takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

Akshara (thinking)-This is the only right option. I've tried many times to talk to you, Abhimanyu, to understand your heart. But you're not responding. I don't know why you're doing this—why you've given up on us. If you've decided to move on, then I have to do the same. I can't keep waiting for you.

She walks to the window, looking out at the sky as tears gather in her eyes.

Akshara (thinking)-I'll go to Jaipur. You can move on with Aanchal. She's perfect for you, and I don't want to hurt her. Maybe we were never meant to be, Abhi.

A knock on the door jolts her from her thoughts. She quickly wipes her tears and smiles at Abhir, who enters with his ever-curious energy.

Akshara-Betu, are you ready?

Abhir-Ha, Mumma! Very ready!

Akshara laughs softly and ruffles his hair.

Akshara-That's my good boy. Go check if your Dadi and Mimi need help, okay?

As Abhir runs off, Akshara heads to the washroom. She closes the door and leans against it, taking deep breaths to compose herself. While Akshara is in the washroom, her phone buzzes on the bed. Abhir, curious as always, picks it up and answers it.

Abhir-Hello?

Aanchal-Hello! Abhir, it's Aanchal aunty. Where's your mumma? I need to talk to her.

Abhir-Mumma is in the washroom. She's getting ready. We're going to Jaipur.

Aanchal's voice tightens with surprise and concern.

Aanchal-Jaipur? Why, Abhir? What's happening?

Abhir-Mumma said we're shifting there permanently.

Aanchal freezes in shock, her mind racing.

Aanchal (thinking)-Permanently? No... this is because Abhimanyu isn't trying. Akshara is giving up and leaving.

Before she can ask more, Akshara emerges from the washroom, drying her hands. Abhir quickly hangs up.

Akshara-Abhir, were you on the phone?

Abhir(nodding)-Yes, Mumma. Aanchal aunty called, but I told her you were in the washroom.

Akshara(smiling)-Okay, good boy. Now let's get ready to go, hmm?

Aanchal paces her bedroom, her phone still in her hand. She's visibly shaken, her brows furrowed in worry.

Aanchal (thinking)-This can't happen. Abhimanyu is drowning himself in guilt, and now Akshara is leaving because of it. They're both too stubborn and too hurt to see what's right in front of them.