Shadow of redemption

Strength

Hello everyone welcome to the new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

The Kapoor apartment was alive with laughter and playful banter. Around the ludo board, Raj and Aryan were conspiring with winks and grins, prompting Dr. Rajesh and Riya to protest loudly.

"Mom, see how they cheat every time! This isn't fair!" Riya exclaimed, her arms crossed.

Priya chuckled, shaking her head. "You think they listen to me? They're impossible!"

Just then, Aaravi and Rakshit returned entered and caught on immediately. "Bhai! I knew it! You’re always the one cheating!"

Aryan smirked. “Me? Never! Raj is the real culprit.”

“Don’t drag me into this,” Raj quipped, grinning.

Aaravi sat down, accusing Aryan further while the others laughed at their sibling squabble. Rakshit stood silently at the door, observing the warmth and joy in the room. A small smile touched his lips before he left unnoticed.

Aryan saw him leave. “You all carry on. I’ll check on Rakshit.”

Aaravi warned, “No arguments, Bhai.”

“Don’t worry,” Aryan teased, playfully messing her hair, making her scowl.

In Rakshit’s apartment,

Aryan found him on the balcony with whisky.

“Careful, if Aaravi sees this, you’re dead,” Aryan joked, pouring himself a glass.

Rakshit sighed, “I have to leave for Australia for two months soon. Aaravi will be alone here...”

Aryan clinked glasses with him. “We’ll manage her together. Trust me, she’s stronger than you think.”

Aryan leaned back in his chair, swirling the whisky in his glass. “Rakshit, you’re overthinking. Aaravi’s not a child. She’s capable of handling herself and everyone around her.”

Rakshit sighed, staring at the city lights. “I know she’s strong. But the thought of leaving her alone... I can’t shake it off. She’s my anchor, Aryan. Being away for two months feels like a lifetime.”

Aryan smirked. “You’re acting like you’ll be in the wilderness without Wi-Fi. Call her, video chat, and stop sulking. Aaravi wouldn’t want to see you like this.”

Rakshit chuckled faintly. “It’s not just that. You all are leaving tomorrow adds to my worry. This place feels alive because of you all. She’s going to miss you all.”

Aryan gave him a knowing look. “You’re worried about leaving her alone, but have you thought about how proud she’ll be when you succeed? This conference is huge, Rakshit. Aaravi wouldn’t forgive you if you let your doubts hold you back.”

Rakshit stared at him, then nodded slowly. “You’re right. She’s my strength, not my weakness.”

Aryan grinned. “Exactly. Now, finish that drink and stop brooding. Aaravi’s happiness lies in seeing you thrive.”

Rakshit raised his glass, a determined look in his eyes.

The next morning, Rakshit woke up early, still mulling over Aryan’s words. He decided to make the most of the ten days before the conference. After getting ready, he headed to the Kapoor apartment, where the family was busy packing. Aaravi, in her usual playful tone, was scolding Aryan for trying to fit everything into one suitcase.

“Seriously, Bhai, are you packing for a week or a lifetime?” Aaravi teased, hands on her hips.

Aryan shrugged. “I’m efficient, unlike you.”