Retributed And Redempted Love

Chapter 40

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Let's get into the story,

In the days that followed, Shravan began bringing Shivu over more often - not out of routine, but because Shivu kept asking for her. Every visit, he would rush into Saakshi's arms with that joyful "Ammaaa," refusing to leave her side. She started keeping his favorite snacks ready, telling him stories while folding his clothes he left behind one by one. Their bond wasn't built through time together - it was built through the way they reached for each other, again and again, like they both already belonged.

One fine day, the living room was quiet, dimly lit, with Aaru fast asleep inside. Anjali had gone to lie down early, and Aadhi found Saakshi folding Aaru's little clothes on the couch.

He sat down across from her, stretching slightly with a small sigh.

Aadhi (casually):
"Siya... I wanted to tell you something."

Saakshi (looking up):
"Hmm?"

Aadhi:
"There's this guy in my department... junior officer. Name's Vishal."

She paused slightly, waiting.

Aadhi (leaning forward, calm):
"He's good at what he does. Quiet type, doesn't talk much outside work but always respectful. Very grounded. Family guy too."

Saakshi didn't react immediately. She just kept folding the little frocks in front of her.

Aadhi (gently):
"I haven't said anything to him. Nothing at all. Just thought... maybe you could meet him sometime. Only if you're okay with it."

Saakshi gently smoothed a fold in the tiny frock she was holding, her fingers lingering on the fabric. She didn't look up.

Saakshi (after a pause, softly):
"If you think he's someone worth meeting... I'll think about it."

Aadhi (nodding gently):
"No rush. I just wanted to be honest with you. He doesn't know anything yet. You'll always have the choice."

She finally glanced up - not with excitement, not with anger. Just a calm acceptance mixed with unspoken questions.

Saakshi:
"It's... a lot to take in. But I know you won't bring someone into my life unless you're sure."

Shravan gently laid Shivu down, brushing his tiny curls away from his forehead as the little boy drifted to sleep. The house was dim, quiet - only the soft hum of the night air outside.

A knock came at the door - soft, uncertain.

Shravan opened it and paused.

Saakshi stood there, eyes tired, shawl wrapped tight around her shoulders, like she was holding herself together.

He stepped aside wordlessly. She walked in.

Neither spoke as she quietly made her way to Shivu's room. She knelt beside his bed and just... watched him. Her fingers hesitated above his cheek, then finally rested there - featherlight.

His tiny lips moved in sleep.

"Amma..."

Her throat caught.

A few minutes passed before she returned to the living room. Shravan was there, two mugs of hot water on the table. No tea. No explanations. Just quiet understanding.

They sat down.

For a while, neither said a word. The silence was heavy - not awkward, just full.

Finally, Saakshi spoke. Low. Cautious.