BENEATH THE MONSOON SKY

"I can't let you go," he whispered. "Not when you love me too."

She didn't speak. Her breath hitched, lips parted, her entire body tense with emotion.

He pulled back just enough to look at her, his hands still cradling her face with trembling care.

His fingers brushed her jaw, lingering like he was afraid to lose even the feel of her skin.

"When you look at me like you did just now... when you say you love me... it's the only time I've ever felt like I belong somewhere. Not as someone's son or someone's brother. Just as me."

..........

In the quiet town of Mayilur, where the monsoon rain dances on tiled roofs and childhood friendships bloom beneath mango trees, two neighbouring families share more than just a lane - they share a lifetime of memories.

Vaishnavi and Karthik, bound by years of playful banter, shared school days, and family ties, are caught in the gentle current of something deeper - a love that neither of them fully understands yet. As they grow up side by side, their bond is tested by distance, duty, and the expectations of tradition.

Authors note: This story is loosely based on the events in my own life. It gives me a LOT of pain to write this, but it's something that needs to be done, as a part of my healing process. I don't know if anyone would read this, if you do, please like/comment. I'd be happy to reply. :)