Things We Never Said

"Why did you stay here all night?" she questioned, purposely avoiding his eyes.

Without missing a beat, Arnav responded "Because I promised I'd always be within your reach, in case you ever needed me."

"Ghar wapas jao, Arnav. Tu kitne samay tak bahar so raha hai?" she replied tiredly. She didn't have any strength left in her to argue with him.

"I am home. You're my home. After spending so long wandering through life aimlessly, without direction or objectives, how can you expect me to give you up when you are my purpose for living?"

Reva laughed humorlessly. Usually his words elicited some emotion from her; even if it was just bitter resentment or crushing disappointment. Now, she felt absolutely nothing. Not even rage. "Too little too late. If you truly care about me now, the way you're claiming to care, then please leave me alone. I truly have nothing left of me to give you, Arnav. I've given you everything. Let me at least try to fix the broken pieces of myself, so I can live a somewhat happy life."

"You don't get it, Reva. There is nothing broken about you, no part that needs to be fixed. You're perfect for me, scars and all. And until you're ready to accept your imperfections, I'll be here to appreciate, praise, and love every inch of you with no expectations in return. My love isn't a loan you need to repay. It's as steadfast as the shore that embraces the ocean every few seconds, just to watch it retreat in the end. Even if all you do is retreat, I would be grateful for the few moments you let me have you."

She slowly whispered "Goodbyes arrive faster than old memories slowly fading out of your concious. You need to accept reality, Arnav."

He whispered back "The universe brings forgiveness in small mercies - silent nights, small acts of services, attempted second chances - and I won't take this opportunity for granted. I'll make every one of your dreams come true, Reva."