Style.

21. Confessions.

✨ CHAPTER TWENTY ONE ✨

Shubman glanced at Mrunmayee with concern, his eyes reflecting his worry for her well-being. "You can't walk, Mrun. Mind me carrying you to the car?" he offered gently.

Mrunmayee hesitated for a moment before responding, her voice tinged with reluctance.

"No, I'm good. It might cause you problems," she replied, concern evident in her tone.

Ishan, ever the joker, chimed in to lighten the mood. "Mrun, why has Shub made all these muscles if he can't even lift a girl?" he teased, a playful grin on his face.

Shreyas joined in with a chuckle, adding, "And anyway, you're so small that it wouldn't be difficult for him."

Mrunmayee rolled her eyes playfully and swatted Shreyas' arm. "I am not small," she retorted, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Shubman couldn't help but smile at their banter, grateful for their attempts to lighten the mood.

"Alright, if you're sure," he said, respecting her decision but ready to offer assistance if she needed it.

As Shubman lifted Mrunmayee into his arms, she couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth and safety enveloping her.

His touch was gentle yet strong, unlike the cruel forcefulness of Rithvik's. She felt cherished, cradled in his arms as he carried her towards the car.

With each step, Mrunmayee couldn't shake the blush that rose to her cheeks at the contact of Shubman's hands.

They were tender and comforting, a stark contrast to the brutality she had endured earlier. She stole a glance at Shubman's face, finding solace in the sincerity of his gaze.

Shubman glanced down at her, his eyes filled with concern and care. "You okay there?" he asked softly, his voice a soothing balm to her frazzled nerves.

Mrunmayee nodded, a shy smile gracing her lips. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thank you," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shubman smiled back reassuringly, his gaze unwavering. "Just relax. We'll get you home safe and sound," he said, his tone filled with determination.

"Aai. She shouldn't...." Mrunmayee said.

"Mrun, don't worry. We won't tell Aai anything," Shubman reassured her, his voice filled with empathy.

She nodded gratefully, her eyes reflecting the relief she felt at the prospect of keeping her ordeal hidden from her mother.

"Thank you," she murmured softly, her voice tinged with gratitude.

Shreyas stepped in, taking charge of the situation with his usual calm demeanor.
"Let's head to my place. It's the closest," he suggested, glancing back at Mrunmayee with a reassuring smile.

Ishan nodded in agreement, settling into the driver's seat with Shreyas beside him.

Shubman slid into the backseat, ensuring Mrunmayee was comfortable beside him. He shot her a supportive look, silently offering his presence as a source of strength.

Shreyas dialed Mrunmayee's mother, his voice steady as he fabricated a story to ease her worries.

"Aai, don't panic. We found her, but she's injured. We're taking her to my place for the night. I'll drop her off tomorrow, okay?" he said, his tone reassuring yet firm.

After assuring her mother, Shreyas hung up and turned to Mrunmayee with a reassuring smile.

"All set. We'll make sure you're safe," he said, his voice filled with conviction.