𝐹𝐴𝑇𝐸𝐷 𝑆𝐸𝑅𝐸𝑁𝐴𝐷𝐸 ✅

Chapter 27 : Family dinner

That night, Shivay sat alone in his dimly lit living room, the shadows casting long shapes on the walls. The home he had envisioned sharing with Arohi now felt like a hollow shell, filled with memories of a life that could have been. Every corner whispered her name, reminding him of laughter and dreams now long extinguished.

Three years had passed since his marriage to Sneha, but it felt like a lifetime. They had built a life together, but for Shivay, it was a facade. Sneha had been there when he needed someone-after the tragedy that had shattered his world-but his heart had never truly belonged to her. She was a comfort, a presence to fill the void, but not the love he craved.

As he stared out at the city lights, he thought of Arohi. How she had once brought light into his life, illuminating even the darkest corners of his soul. He remembered her laughter, the way she had inspired him to chase his dreams, and how effortlessly they had connected. Now, the silence felt oppressive.

Sneha entered, breaking his reverie. "Hey, you're quiet tonight," she remarked, her tone light but observant.

"Just thinking," he replied, trying to mask his emotions.

"About work? Or... something else?" She moved closer, attempting to bridge the distance between them.

"Just work," he said, the words tasting bitter in his mouth. He couldn't bring himself to share his thoughts about Arohi, the lingering ghost that haunted him.

"Okay," Sneha said softly, sensing his unease. "Let me know if you need anything."

As she walked away, Shivay felt a pang of guilt. He cared for Sneha; she had been a steadfast partner through his darkest days. But the love he felt was not the kind that ignited a fire within him. It was a warm glow, but it couldn't compete with the passion he once shared with Arohi.

Lying in bed later that night, Shivay turned over, trying to find solace in the sheets. But sleep eluded him, thoughts swirling in a chaotic storm. Why had things turned out this way? Why hadn't he fought harder for what he truly wanted?

The memories flooded back-Arohi's smile, her gentle teasing, their shared dreams. And in that quiet, dark room, Shivay realized that no matter how much time passed, he could never truly let go. He had built a life with Sneha, but his heart would always belong to Arohi.

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Arohi had settled into a new routine in her different home, creating a space that felt both safe and familiar. Her friendship with Vihaan had deepened, evolving into a bond built on trust and shared experiences. They often spent evenings together, finding comfort in each other's presence as they navigated their respective struggles.

That night, after changing into her nightgown, Arohi stepped out of the bathroom to find Vihaan lounging on her bed, an easy smile on his face. The sight surprised her; she hadn't expected him to be there. He had an extra key, a privilege of their close friendship, but she still felt a flutter of unease at the intrusion.

"You look tired," he remarked, his voice softening as he observed her.

She nodded, grateful for the chance to unwind. As he went to change into his own comfortable clothes, she climbed onto the bed, sinking into the pillows. When he returned in a relaxed night shirt and sweatpants, he settled in beside her, pulling her into a gentle embrace.

Arohi didn't mind the closeness, she knew Vihaan had feelings for her, she had never reciprocated them in the same way. For her, he was a friend, a source of comfort. His presence felt familiar, and she allowed him to hold her, grateful for the warmth he provided.

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Arohi stood on the balcony of her new office, far from the life she once knew. It had been five years since everything changed. Though she'd managed to maintain distance from her past, her mind couldn't escape it. The weight of Shivay's pain, the mysterious man who had wrecked both their lives, and the overwhelming guilt were never far from her thoughts.