I WAS ALWAYS YOURS

SIX

I'm standing in the kitchen of the Malhotra house, pouring myself a glass of mango juice. The sweet, tangy aroma fills the room, a small comfort before the storm. Just yesterday, after Mr. Malhotra dropped me off, I went straight to my room, feeling the weight of what was to come. I took a long, relaxing shower, trying to clear my mind and calm my nerves, but sleep was elusive. I lay in bed, restless, consumed by thoughts of how to end things with Dhruv.

It's now today, and I'm about to face the reality of my decision. I know this is going to be difficult; breaking up is never easy, especially when you care about someone. But I need to do this for my own well-being. It's a choice I've made for myself, one that's necessary for my growth and happiness. I've rehearsed what I want to say, tried to anticipate his reactions, and prepared myself emotionally.

As I sip the mango juice, I gather the courage I'll need. The sweetness of the drink contrasts sharply with the bitterness of the situation, reminding me of the duality of emotions I'm feeling. I remind myself that, though it's going to be hard, this is the right step for me. 

I pull my phone from the pocket of my dress skirt and unlock Instagram, a habit of mine to stay updated. As I scroll through my feed, a photo catches my eye, and my heart sinks. There's Dhruv, lying on a bed with another girl. From the way they're positioned under the blanket, it's clear he's naked. The image is a punch to the gut; tears well up in my eyes, and the sense of betrayal is almost overwhelming.

I question why I feel this so deeply, especially since I've already decided to end things with him. Part of me wonders if this is just another confirmation that I'm making the right choice. I've always been hesitant, keeping my distance, and now it feels like this betrayal is a reflection of my own fears and insecurities.

I finish the last sip of my mango juice, its sweetness now bitter on my tongue. I set the glass down, the finality of my decision weighing heavier. The tears begin to fall, but I remind myself that I'm doing this for me, for my own peace and dignity. Despite the hurt, I know I'm moving forward with strength and purpose.

I leave the kitchen and head toward the living area, where Navya is chatting on the phone with Kabir. Dhruv is upstairs, presumably still asleep. I steal a quick glance at Navya, who's engrossed in her conversation, and make my way to Dhurv's room. My heart is pounding as I knock softly before opening the door.

What I see inside is something I wasn't prepared for. Dhruv is there, tangled with the same girl from Instagram. They're making out, lost in each other, and I'm frozen in the doorway, the reality of the situation crashing over me.

Dhruv finally turns and meets my gaze, and at that moment, I can see the shock and guilt on his face. But it's too late for words, too late for explanations. I take a deep breath, my emotions spilling over. "I'm done. We are done!" I cry out, my voice trembling with hurt and anger.

Without waiting for a response, I slam the door shut behind me and rush out of the Malhotra mansion. I sprint down the driveway, the tears blurring my vision as I make my way to the road. I need to get away, to put distance between me and the scene of my heartbreak. The cool air and the quiet of the night hit me as I stepped into the street, seeking solace in the solitude and the promise of moving forward.

I take a few deep breaths, forcing myself to calm down. It's a small comfort that no one can blame me for breaking up with Dhruv now. I remind myself that Navya will understand my decision. 

I find a seat on the bus stand chair and wait for the bus, trying to steady my emotions. The cool air helps, and I focus on the fact that I'm about to start a new chapter in my life. The bus pulls up, and I get on, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. Today is my first day at the new job, and I need to be professional and composed.