YOU NEVER WALK ALONE

45- Cold hands

Nothing much happened in this chapter
:( but it's a fluff chapter!!

AUTHOR'S POV-

The atmosphere became much more lively after the recent events unfolded. Sarakshi, along with Ananya, who was never particularly fond of cooking unless it was a fun activity with her best friend—set out to prepare some snacks. Sarakshi, determined to cheer up Pichu, even baked a batch of his favourite cookies. The inviting aroma of fresh-baked cookies drifted through the room, adding to the joyful buzz.

When Sarakshi handed Pichu his favorite cookies, his face lit up instantly, a wide grin spreading on his face. The group gathered around, savoring the snacks, the tension of earlier days finally melting away into an atmosphere of ease and laughter.

Everyone couldn't stop praising Sarakshi for stepping out of her usual reserved demeanor. Rashvik sat quietly, enjoying Sarakshi getting praised, though he couldn't help but smile at the way her face flushed deep red from all the compliments. The sight made his heart warm in a way he wasn't quite ready to admit.

Lost in his thoughts, he barely registered when Reyansh leaned over and nudged him with a knowing grin.

"Bada maza aa raha hai, bhai?" Reyansh teased, his voice low but full of mischief.

(Enjoying a lot, bhai?)

"Aur tum logon ko nahi aa raha?" Rashvik shot back with an equally playful smirk.

(You guys are not enjoying?)

"We've been enjoying since the start. Unlike you," Reyansh quipped, rolling his eyes dramatically.

"Ab toh main bhi enjoy kar raha hoon. Karne do," Rashvik replied in a hushed tone, his smile softening with a hint of shyness. His attempt to downplay his emotions only made Reyansh chuckle louder.

(Now even i'm enjoying, so let me)

"Yeh toh naya hai," Reyansh laughed, shaking his head in amusement.

(This is new)

As the laughter echoed through the room, Sarakshi looked over, catching Rashvik's gaze for the briefest moment and this time not only Sarakshi but both of them looked away. Her lips curved into a gentle smile, and something unspoken passed between them, warm, tentative, yet filled with comprehension.

Rashvik felt his heart quicken, wondering if perhaps this newfound connection was just the beginning of something deeper.

The evening carried on with joy, teasing, and lighthearted banter. For that moment, it felt like nothing could dampen their spirits.

Later, as evening settled in, Ananya and Prachi returned to their home, while Rajiv remained occupied with office work. In the hall, Sarakshi, Reyansh, and Rakshit chatted quietly. Pichu, worn out from the heavy doses of medication, had fallen into a deep sleep again. The house seemed calmer now, the earlier lively energy replaced by a tranquil stillness.

Upstairs, Rashvik stood alone on the balcony, his body slightly bent, upper arm resting on the cool metal railing. The setting sun painted the sky in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and gold, as if an unseen hand was blending pastel shades onto a vast canvas. The chilly breeze carried the faint scent of ground, adding a serene touch to the picturesque scene.

Yet the stunning view went unnoticed by Rashvik. His gaze remained fixed on a distant point, eyes clouded with thoughts. The distant murmurs of life felt far away as he wrestled silently with his inner musings.

Meanwhile, Sarakshi stepped into the room quietly, her eyes softening at the sight of Pichu sleeping peacefully. His small chest rose and fell steadily under the comfort of a warm blanket. Noticing the open balcony door, a smile tugged at her lips. She knew exactly where Rashvik would be.