Shadow of redemption

care

Hello everyone welcome to new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

Rakshit watched Aaravi pout at the plate of khichdi with a mix of amusement and determination. Despite her childlike resistance, his worry for her health overpowered everything else. Gently, he said, "Aaravi, you’re injured, and you need something light to recover. Look, Raj and I are eating the same thing."

Raj chimed in, "Bhabhi, once you’re better, I promise to take you to the best barbecue restaurant. But for now, listen to bhaiya."

Still, Aaravi crossed her arms and wrinkled her nose, staring at the food as if it were a punishment. Rakshit, seeing her stubbornness, pulled her chair closer to him. With a soft smile and immense care, he scooped a spoonful of khichdi and held it near her mouth.

"Aaravi, for me," he said tenderly.

Her heart melted under his warmth. Though she initially resisted, Rakshit’s love and patience broke through her defenses, and she began eating, feeling comforted by his presence.

Raj wiped the table spotless while Rakshit methodically cleaned the utensils, his focus precise. Aaravi, meanwhile, curled up on the couch, engrossed in her cartoon show. Her laughter echoed through the apartment, drawing Raj’s attention. Soon, he joined her, chuckling at the animated antics on screen.

When Rakshit returned, he paused in the doorway, observing the pair. Aaravi’s bubbly laughter, mingling with Raj’s hearty chuckles, brought a rare smile to his face. The sight of his family sharing such simple joy softened his usually tense demeanor. Silently, he leaned against the doorframe, letting their happiness momentarily lighten his heart.

Rakshit sat beside Aaravi, holding her hand firmly. Aaravi glanced at him and softly asked, “Are you all right?” Rakshit simply nodded, his eyes calm but protective.

Raj broke the silence, asking, “Who’s going to the airport to fetch uncle, aunty, and bhaiya-bhabhi?” Aaravi, distracted by the TV, innocently asked, “Who’s coming?”

Raj and Rakshit exchanged puzzled looks before Raj clarified, “Your family is coming tomorrow morning. Did you forget?” Aaravi froze, eyes widening in shock. “What? They’re coming? How will I face them in this condition? Bhai will kill me, and Mom-Dad will worry!”

Rakshit firmly gripped her shoulders, his voice steady. “I’ll be with you. Nothing will happen.” His unwavering confidence brought a calming reassurance, filling Aaravi with much-needed moral support.

Rakshit took charge of the preparations with meticulous care, ensuring everything was perfect for the Kapoor family’s arrival. He assigned specific tasks to Raj and his trusted staff. A deep cleaning of the apartment was conducted, leaving it spotless and welcoming. Fresh flowers adorned every corner, filling the space with a soothing fragrance. The dining table was set elegantly with fine china, ready for a grand family dinner.

Rakshit also ensured that the fridge and pantry were stocked with all the Kapoor family's favorite items. He arranged for fresh fruits, vegetables, and an assortment of sweets and snacks, knowing Mrs. Kapoor’s fondness for traditional delicacies.

In the guest rooms, soft bedding and cozy blankets were laid out, and personalized touches like scented candles and fresh towels were added. Aaravi’s brother's room was equipped with fitness gear.

In the evening, Rakshit supervised everything personally, occasionally checking on Aaravi to ensure she was comfortable. Despite his cold, commanding demeanor toward his staff, his every action reflected his desire to make Aaravi’s family feel welcomed and cherished. This was his way of silently promising them that Aaravi was in safe, loving hands.

The night air was still, but Rakshit’s mind buzzed with thoughts of the morning accident and the impending arrival of Aaravi’s family. He sat on the couch, his usual composed demeanor betraying signs of unease. Aaravi, noticing the shadows in his eyes, approached him softly.

"Rakshit," she said, her voice tender, "come to bed. You need rest."

"I’m fine, Aaravi," he replied, forcing a faint smile. "There’s too much to think about."

Aaravi knelt in front of him, taking his hands in hers. "You’ve done enough today. Now, let me take care of you." Her gaze held unwavering love, melting his resistance.

Reluctantly, he let her lead him to the bedroom. She made him sit on the bed and adjusted the pillows. As he sat stiffly, Aaravi climbed beside him and gently pulled his head onto her lap. "Close your eyes," she whispered, running her fingers through his hair.

"Aaravi..." he began, but she hushed him. "Shh... I’m here. Just listen to my heartbeat."

Her soft touch and soothing words worked magic. For the first time in hours, Rakshit’s body relaxed. "You’re my peace," he murmured before drifting into a deep, dreamless sleep, cradled by her warmth.

As Rakshit slept peacefully, Aaravi lay beside him, gently stroking his hair. Her eyes softened, and she whispered, "I promise, Rakshit, I’ll always be by your side. I’ll be your light, your warmth, your peace." Her heart swelled with love as she watched him breathe steadily, feeling determined to protect and cherish him for a lifetime.

Next Morning

Aaravi stood nervously at the arrivals gate, her injured arm hidden beneath a scarf. As her family emerged, her brother Aryan’s eyes immediately locked on her arm. His face darkened with worry and anger. “Aaravi! What happened to you?” he exclaimed, rushing to her side.

Before Aaravi could respond, her sister-in-law Riya gasped, “Oh my God, Aaravi! Are you hurt? Why didn’t you tell us earlier?” Mrs. Kapoor grabbed Aaravi’s face, inspecting her with teary eyes. “Beta, how could you hide this from us?” she said, her voice trembling with concern.

Mr. Kapoor frowned, his gaze sharp. “This isn’t a minor injury. You should have been resting instead of coming here!”

Aryan, already fuming, turned to Raj. “Who is this?” he demanded. Aaravi quickly intervened, introducing Raj as a younger brother of a friend who helped her during the accident. Aryan still looked unconvinced but didn’t press further.

Throughout the drive home, Aryan hovered over Aaravi, adjusting her seatbelt and asking every few minutes if she was in pain. “You’re reckless,” he muttered. “From now on, I’m staying with you all the time.”

Riya tried to lighten the mood, saying, “Let’s all calm down, Aryan. Aaravi is okay now.” But Aryan remained tense, his protectiveness suffocating.

Finally, they reached the apartment with much effort, Aaravi deflecting further questions about the injury. As they entered, her family’s worry lingered, while Aryan’s overprotectiveness remained in full force.

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