INSEPARABLE HEARTS 2

Chapter 121

Happy Reading

The corridor near the school lockers was quieter than usual — the last bell had rung, most students already scattered.

Dharshi was zipping up her bag when she heard the voice she hoped she wouldn’t.

Robin: “Dharshi… wait.”

She froze. Her body tensed before she even turned. The sound of his voice alone still made her skin crawl. She slowly turned around, eyes already dark with resentment.

Dharshi (cold): “What do you want?”

Robin (awkwardly): “Just to say I’m sorry. Again.”

Dharshi: “You already did. Doesn’t mean I have to hear it twice.”

Before Robin could respond, Abeer appeared from around the hallway, his eyes narrowing as he saw Robin. Without saying a word, he walked toward them.

Dharshi stepped in front of him gently, placing a hand on Abeer’s chest.

Dharshi (softly): “Not worth it.”

And then to Robin, with one last glare—

Dharshi: “Just stay away from me.”

She turned and walked away, pulling Abeer with her before anything escalated.

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Later that day, the sun dipped golden over the school football ground. Angad and Abeer were practicing — the thud of the ball, their laughter, the echo of renewed brotherhood.

On the bleachers, Keerthi and Dharshi sat with iced coffees, watching them. It was one of those rare peaceful moments.

Dharshi (smiling): “You ever imagined this a year ago?”

Keerthi: “Never. But damn, it’s beautiful.”

They sat quietly, watching the two boys — their boys — sprint across the field like something out of a memory they never had, but always wanted.

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That evening, Keerthi did what she always did when she needed quiet — she snuck into Angad’s house through the back gate. The house was dim, a single lamp in the corner. She wore one of his hoodies and grinned when he opened the door.

Angad (softly): “You’re going to get caught someday.”

Keerthi: “Then you better marry me fast and make it legal.”

They laughed and settled on the couch.

But something was off. Angad was quiet. Distant.

Keerthi (teasing): “Hey. Earth to football boy?”

He ran a hand through his hair, turning to face her fully.

Angad: “Keerthi… I want you. You know that. But there’s one thing I can’t fake — honesty.”

Her smile faded slightly.

Angad: “You told me to stop bringing it up. But I can’t pretend anymore. Nick did talk to me… back then. He told me not to be with you.”

Keerthi pulled away, her brows furrowing.

Keerthi: “Wait. What?”

Angad: “I don’t want secrets between us. I need you to know, even if it hurts.”