Separated Love

Chapter 25: Family Time

This night was incredible. We all ate together after so long like one big family. There was barely any space at the table so everyone scattered all over the apartment to find a spot to sit and eat. Kartik went out of his way to sit by Arjun. He apologized for his behavior when they first met, and eventually Arjun started to warm up to him too. I noticed the way Arjun looks at Gayu Di, it reminds me of the way Kartik looks at me. Who would've thought that Gayu Di and Arjun would end up together. They are planning the wedding for 6 months later. Arjun said his entire family will be coming to Udaipur from America. I can't wait to introduce Kartik to his sister, Vedika.

Kartik and I are doing great as well. Ever since we started communicating properly with each other, things have gotten MUCH better between us. We understand each other so well. Arguments are practically rare at this point. I hope nothing ruins what we have going right now. I'm excited to continue living with Kartik alone for sometime. I guess being alone with the person you love allows your to harbor a proper relationship where no other person can come in between. With each passing day my love for Kartik has continued to grow. I respect the way he's going to therapy to not only make himself better, but also to prove that he will be responsible when it comes time for my surgery.

As I'm writing I hear the door open, and I look up to see Kartik admiring me. Neither of us says anything. We just look into each other's eyes and smile. We both know that our happiness stems from the fact that both of our families were reunited today.

"Do you want me to sit outside while you're writing in your journal?"

"No Kartik that's fine I just finished. Thank you for giving me privacy though when I write. Come here," I pat the spot next to me on the bed. I close my journal and place it on the side table. He comes and takes a seat. "Did Nani take her medicines?"

"Yup! I gave her the medicines, and I checked in on her and she was asleep. I also texted both of our dads. Papa and Dadi are comfortable at the apartment. Everyone else has gone to a hotel. I wish we had a place big enough here so everyone could stay together. Anyways, I think we should both rest up now so we can prepare food for the picnic tomorrow!" I can't help but wrap my arms around his neck, and put my forehead against his. Kartik is caught off guard but begins to smile. "What's going on Naira? You're being quite romantic tonight." I put my finger on his lips to silence him. Without saying anything I give him a kiss on his forehead and gently touch his nose with mine.

"I love you Kartik." His dimples make an appearance on his face as he gets shy and looks down for a moment. He then wraps his arms around me pulling me in closer.

"I love you too Naira," he says as he kisses my forehead in return. With that we turn off the lights, as I lay my head on his chest and fall asleep.

I wake up early today to prepare the food with Kartik so I can have some time alone with my Nani before the picnic. Kartik is currently getting ready, and I'm in Nani's room with my head in her lap.

"Bitiya Rani, it's so good to see you and Kartik together again." She runs her fingers through my hair instantly reminding me of what my mom used to do.

"Yes Nani we have been doing well. Kartik and I are planning to get surgery done on my ankle once classes are over in a week."

"Are you sure Kartik will be able to take care of you alone after the surgery? You also know your dad and brother. They're going to want to see you right away if you get a surgery done."

"I don't know Nani, but it's not like we have any other choice. Ma told me she needs space from me." As I'm about to say more, Kartik enters.

"Is all the love for Naira or do you have some to spare for your grandson as well?" Nani and I start laughing.