Falling from Grace

Chapter 8: A New Life

Helooo Guyzzzz!!!

Am back with a new chap!!!

Hope u like it!!!

Target still remains same(Votes-10)

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The apartment in London was small, with just enough space for the three of them to live comfortably. Located on the outskirts of the city, it overlooked a quiet park, a welcome change from the chaos they had left behind in India. But while the serenity outside was a balm, the transition into their new life was far from easy.

Ritika stood by the kitchen window one crisp autumn morning, staring at the yellow and orange leaves falling in slow spirals. She gripped her mug of tea tightly, the warmth grounding her as her thoughts swirled. Everything felt foreign: the weather, the people, the language spoken in lilting accents all around them.

"Mama, can I go to the park?" Samaira's small voice broke through Ritika's thoughts. She turned to see her daughter standing by the door, clutching her favorite stuffed rabbit.

Ritika managed a smile, though her heart ached at the sight. Samaira had been so brave through everything—packing up her toys, saying goodbye to friends, and stepping onto a plane to a world she didn't understand.

"Of course, sweetheart," Ritika said, setting down her mug. "Let me get your coat."

At the park, Samaira ran straight for the swings, her giggles breaking through the stillness of the morning. Ritika sat on a bench nearby, watching her daughter's joy with a mix of relief and sadness.

"Beautiful morning, isn't it?" a woman's voice interrupted her thoughts. Ritika looked up to see a woman about her age, with a warm smile and a stroller in front of her.

"Yes," Ritika replied, her voice tinged with hesitation.

"I'm Clara," the woman said, extending a hand. "I come here almost every day with my little one."

"I'm Ritika," she replied, shaking Clara's hand.

"New to the area?" Clara asked, her tone casual but kind.

"Yes. Just moved here a few weeks ago."

Clara nodded. "It's a lovely neighborhood. If you ever need anything, feel free to ask."

Ritika thanked her, though her instinct was to retreat. Trust didn't come easily anymore—not after everything they had been through.

Back at the apartment, Rohit was hunched over his laptop at the dining table, his brow furrowed as he scrolled through emails. Ritika placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Any luck?" she asked softly.

"Some," Rohit replied, though his tone was unconvincing. "A few coaching opportunities, but nothing solid yet."

Ritika sighed, sitting across from him. The move had taken a toll on Rohit in ways he rarely admitted. His identity had been tied to cricket for so long, and leaving India meant stepping away from the life he had built.

"You'll find something," Ritika said, her voice firm with encouragement. "We both will."

Rohit gave her a small smile. "And how's Samaira?"