Unconditional Love

63. Where It Feels Safe

As Rahul Bhai stood up, he gave them all a warm, appreciative smile. "Thank you for the dinner. It meant a lot."

His eyes stayed on Aman for a second longer, filled with something unspoken, but he didn't say anything more.

Virat nodded, understanding the emotions behind it. "You don't have to thank us, Rahul Bhai," he said softly. "We wanted to do this."

Rahul Bhai smiled before turning to Aman, who was barely keeping his eyes open. "Take care of yourself, Aman," he said gently.

Aman blinked drowsily and nodded. "I will... thank you for coming." His voice was quiet, almost hesitant, but sincere.

Virat placed a firm hand on Aman's shoulder. "Bacha, go to sleep now," he instructed. "You're exhausted."

Aman hummed in response, already leaning a little into Jassi, who chuckled. "Come on, let's get you to bed before you sleepwalk there," Jassi teased, wrapping an arm around Aman's waist to support him.

Virat and Rohit watched as Jassi guided Aman towards their room, Aman mumbling something under his breath.

Once they disappeared inside, Virat turned back to Rahul Bhai. "Let's go. We'll see you off."

The three of them made their way downstairs, the night air cool against their skin.

At the car, Rahul Bhai turned to them, his expression serious. "Take care of Aman," he said, concern lacing his tone. "He seemed a little... disoriented tonight."

Virat exhaled, his jaw tightening slightly. "I know. I noticed it too. Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on him."

Rahul Bhai studied him for a moment, then nodded.

He reached out and pulled Virat into a tight hug, his touch lingering with warmth and silent support. "You take care too," he murmured.

Virat hugged him back, a quiet gratitude in his heart.

When they pulled apart, Rahul Bhai turned to Rohit and patted his cheek affectionately. "And you... keep looking out for them."

Rohit smiled and nodded. "Always."

With a final nod, Rahul Bhai got into his car and drove off.

Virat and Rohit stood there for a moment, watching the taillights disappear into the distance before heading back upstairs, their minds still thinking about the events of the evening.

As they reached the door of their apartment, Virat gently caught Rohit's hand, intertwining their fingers.

His thumb brushed over Rohit's knuckles in a soothing rhythm.

"Let's go for a walk?" Virat suggested quietly, his voice soft, as if the night itself was listening.

Rohit turned his head, giving him a small, knowing smile. "Yeah... I'd like that."

They left the building, stepping into the cool night air. The breeze was gentle, carrying the faint scent of rain that hadn't yet arrived.

It felt peaceful, the world slowed down just for them.

Neither of them spoke for a while.

They just walked side by side, their fingers still laced together, sharing warmth in the quiet.

Every now and then, their shoulders brushed, grounding them in the moment.

Virat took a deep breath, watching Rohit out of the corner of his eye.