SHOT 43

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Mithran stopped the car in front of K - fab and waited patiently for Chaahat to come out.

He was anxious to know how her first day was, knowing how much she hated socialising.

As Mithran waited, he observed the entrance of K-fab, the fashion hub of India, known for its unique and creative designs. To think that his Chaahat is one of those creative genuines there, he felt so damn proud of her.

Soon, he spotted Chaahat walking out, her face reflecting a mix of weariness and contemplation. He greeted her with a warm smile, trying to mask his concern.

"Hey, how was your first day at the new workplace?" Mithran asked softly.

Chaahat mustered a faint smile and slid into the passenger seat.

"It was... overwhelming, to say the least. I am not used to so many people and constant interaction," she admitted, fidgeting with her fingers, and not quite meeting his eyes.

Mithran could sense something was bothering her beyond the usual introvert struggles. He decided to give her some space, allowing her to open up in her own time. As they drove back home, the silence felt heavy, with both of them lost in their thoughts.

Once they settled in the living room, Chaahat finally broke the silence.

"Mithran, I feel like I don't belong there. Everyone seems so happy and cheerful, and I can't seem to fit in."

Mithran listened attentively, understanding the weight of her words.

"It's okay to take time adjusting to a new environment. Maybe it's just the first day jitters. Give it some more time, and I am sure you'll find your place." He tried to assure her.

Chaahat nodded, appreciating his support.

"I hope you're right."

Despite his words, Mithran couldn't shake off the feeling that something indeed bothered Chaahat. He watched her from the corner of his eye, noticing her furrowed brows and restless demeanour.

He knew her too well; something was amiss. Something that has shaken her a bit.

What could it be?

He knows for sure that she isn't going to tell him anything even if he asks her.

Chaahat was in a world of her own.

The thought that Dhruv Khuranna was very near to her now bothered her to such an extent that she was finding it difficult to concentrate on anything.

What if he sees her in the office? Will he recognise her? And if he does, how will he react? The thought scared her.

That day years ago was still etched in her memory. Even though she was too young to remember such things, the incident was so deeply traumatic that she couldn't shake off that memory from her head.

What if history repeats? What if the same thing happened again?

The very thought made her shudder. The painful cries still echoed in her ears. The looks of disgust thrown their way that day made her feel uneasy.

As the evening progressed, Mithran could still sense Chaahat's unease, even though she had opened up a little about her past and taken some steps towards resolving her concerns. He decided to take her mind off things for a while and planned a surprise date to lift her spirits.

Well, he didn't dare using the term date. Chaahat wouldn't appreciate it being called a date.

So, he simply told her that they could have dinner from outside tonight. And Chaahat, who was too preoccupied with her worries, didn't argue much.

He led her to a quaint little restaurant tucked away in the heart of the city. The soft glow of fairy lights and the soothing music in the background created a magical ambiance. Chaahat looked surprised but pleased as they settled at their table.

Chaahat, at once, realised that Mithran had brought her here to lift her spirits. He might have noticed how disturbed she was. And she couldn't help but notice how Mithran hadn't forced her to speak about what was worrying her. He never does. He patiently stays by her side and lets her open up in her own time.

But talking about this chapter of her life is impossible for her.

"Mithran, you didn't have to do all this," she said, touched by his thoughtful gesture.

"Today might have been tough, but I am here to make it better. Let's just enjoy this moment together."

As they savoured a delicious meal and shared heartwarming conversations, Mithran noticed Chaahat gradually relaxing.

For a brief moment, Chaahat forgot about all her worries and got fully immersed in Mithran's company.

After dinner, they took a leisurely stroll through the park. The moonlight cast a gentle glow on Chaahat's face, making her appear even more radiant. Mithran couldn't help but stare at her.

"You know, Chaahat, your creativity and strength inspire me every day. Despite the challenges you face, you never give up."

Chaahat could feel the heat creeping up her cheeks, feeling the warmth of his words.

"And you, Mithran, have this incredible ability to make everything feel alright. Thank you for being my anchor," she said, her voice full of affection and gratitude.

It was true. He was becoming her anchor.

They found a quiet spot under a large tree and sat down, gazing at the stars above.

"You're not alone in this journey, Chaahat. As a friend, I'll always be by your side, through thick and thin." Mithran said. He specified the word friend, just to make Chaahat more comfortable with him.

He wanted to be more than a mere friend, but he knows that Chaahat is not ready to take a step in that direction yet.

Will she ever be? A masochistic part of his brain asked and Mithran shook his head to dispel such negative thoughts.

He should be optimistic like always. One day in the near future, Chaahat will love him the way he loves her. He believed so. At this point, he had no other option than to hold onto that belief.

Chaahat's heart swelled with gratitude for having Mithran by her side. She knew that with him, she could overcome anything, even the ghosts of her past.

They stayed under the stars, lost in each other's presence, cherishing the simplicity and beauty of the moment.

As they made their way back home, Mithran held Chaahat's hand tightly, reminding her that no matter what the future held, they had each other, and that was enough to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The moment was broken by the shrill ringing of Mithran's cell phone.

He looked at the caller ID and found an unknown number on the screen.

He picked up the call and heard a familiar voice from the other side.

"Dhruv Khuranna?" Mithran asked and Chaahat felt her entire body freezing at that moment.

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