Retributed And Redempted Love

Chapter 45

This chapter is nearly 6000 words long, so please don’t forget to vote and leave a comment after reading. The previous chapter still hasn’t reached the target, and I’ve decided not to post the next update until we hit at least 70+ votes and 40+ comments.🙂

I’ve noticed that the number of views is 2 to 3 times higher than the votes and comments—which honestly feels discouraging as it make me think like the story is not good🥹. Just tell me whether it is true that this story is not good

I’m managing these updates during an already hectic schedule, carving out time specially for this story. So when the recognition doesn’t match the effort, it really affects my motivation.

I hope you all understand and continue to support the story the way you have so far. Your interaction means more than you think! 💛

Let's get into the story,

Shravan gently lifted her into his arms as they left the shore, the night breeze brushing against them like a quiet blessing. Saakshi didn’t resist — she simply rested her head against his chest, her fingers curled lightly into his shirt. He held her close, like something he couldn’t risk losing again.

They returned to the villa in silence — but it wasn’t empty.

Their eyes spoke everything they didn’t say aloud. The space between them hummed with things left unspoken, things too fragile to put into words.

Inside, wrapped in the soft glow of the villa’s lamps, he sat down with her on the couch. Her head leaned gently onto his shoulder, his arm draped around her in quiet protectiveness. They didn’t speak.

But they didn’t need to.

An hour passed — not in conversation, but in presence. Every glance, every shared breath was enough.

Then, slowly, Saakshi stirred. “He must be waiting…”

Shravan nodded, almost reluctantly. “Shivu…”

A soft smile curved her lips. “He won’t sleep without hearing you.”

Shravan exhaled a breath that sounded like longing. “Let’s go. Before he starts his usual drama.”

She gave a faint laugh — the kind that meant more than it sounded.

And together, they left — carrying a silence that was no longer filled with pain, but something far gentler.

As the car pulled up to the house, the evening breeze whispered through the trees, carrying the scent of salt and sand. Shravan stepped out quietly, circling to the other side.

Saakshi looked up at him, her expression unreadable but calm. Without a word, he opened the door and gently lifted her into his arms — as naturally as breathing.

They didn’t speak. They didn’t need to.

Inside the house, Arjun was pacing the living room, a flustered look on his face and Shivu fidgeting restlessly in his arms.

The moment the door opened, Shivu turned instinctively — and the instant he saw Shravan holding Saakshi, a low sob escaped his lips.

He began wriggling in Arjun’s hold, eyes wide, tears brimming as soft cries shook his little frame. Arjun tried to soothe him, but the child only reached out helplessly.

Shravan quickly placed Saakshi on the sofa. She extended her arms, and Shivu lunged into her lap, clutching at her with all the strength his tiny hands could gather.

He didn’t speak.
He didn’t need to.

He just sobbed — quietly, brokenly — burying his face against her chest as if afraid she’d disappear again.