𝙈𝙄𝙉𝘿 𝙂𝘼𝙈𝙀𝙎 | 18+ [SLOW UPDATES]

• WEB OF ILLUSIONS •

The next time I opened my eyes, I was greeted by Naina's sweet smile and, thankfully, a much lesser headache.

It took me a moment to realize where I was-and what had happened to my left leg.

"What time is it?" I asked softly, my voice barely above a whisper as I glanced at Naina. Beside her stood a maid, holding a stack of clothes in her hands.

I shifted slightly, attempting to sit up, but the sudden movement sent a sharp pain shooting through my leg. I gasped, a scream tearing through my throat before I could stop it.

"Careful!" Naina rushed to my side, her hands steadying me as she helped me sit up properly.

"Aap na," she said, a hint of scolding in her voice as she arranged some cushions behind me, "you should be more careful, Advika." She moved back, her gentle hands hovering as if to ensure I was comfortable.

"It's almost morning," she added, pulling the curtains apart. Warm sunlight streamed into the room. I raised a hand instinctively to shield my eyes from the sudden glare, but the warmth was oddly soothing, calming me in a way I hadn't expected.

"And here," Naina said, taking the clothes from the maid's hands, "Maa asked me to help you get ready. We'll need to be at breakfast soon."

Breakfast?

"No, it's totally fi-" I tried standing up, but my leg betrayed me again, and I stumbled. Naina was there in an instant, steadying me before I could fall.

"It's totally fine," I continued, shaking my head. "I'll leave soon enou-"

"Leave?!" Naina's expression shifted, her eyes flickering to the bandaged covering on my leg. Before I could say more, another voice cut in.

"Jane ki baat bilkul mat kariyega. You are our guest now."

(Don't talk about going anywhere.)

The voice was unfamiliar, but the tone was warm and firm. I blinked in confusion.

"It's Arushi," the woman clarified as she stepped into the room. She had Naina's same kind eyes but carried a livelier, almost mischievous air. "Naina's cousin. And everyone's waiting for you, so we should get you ready quickly."

She exchanged a glance with Naina, and before I could protest, they both set to work, their efficiency leaving me no room to argue.

After a quick shower, they helped me with the jewelry and clothes. The garments were beautiful-intricate and vibrant in a way that felt both foreign and enchanting. Everything about them screamed of a culture I didn't belong to but couldn't help admiring.

As they adjusted the last piece of jewelry, my mind wandered. I still couldn't wrap my head around everything that had happened-the accident, losing my suitcase, and now, this family's overwhelming kindness. They barely knew me, yet they welcomed me like I was one of their own.