The morning after felt eerily calm, as if the storm from last night had never happened. But Abhi knew better. He could still hear Ruhi's voice, her confession, playing in his head like a broken record.
His phone buzzed, the screen flashing with her name. He didn't pick up. He wouldn't.
Instead, he found himself standing in front of the Malhotra estate. It wasn't a place he thought he'd willingly come to, but something had shifted inside him after his conversation with Ishika last night.
The grand doors opened before he could knock. Ishika stood there, her sharp gaze scanning him. "You look like hell."
Abhi huffed a short laugh. "Feel like it too."
She stepped aside, allowing him in. "So, what brings the great Abhi Rathod here at this hour?"
He exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "I need to talk."
Ishika's brow arched in amusement. "With me?"
"Unless you've got a better suggestion."
She led him to the study, pouring two glasses of coffee before settling onto the couch. "Alright," she said, setting one glass in front of him. "Talk."
Abhi took a deep breath, staring into the dark liquid. "What if everything I believed in was a lie?"
Ishika's expression remained unreadable. "Then you start over."
He scoffed. "Just like that?"
"Just like that," she affirmed, sipping her coffee. "People think life is about holding onto things. But sometimes, it's about knowing when to let go."
Abhi leaned back, staring at the ceiling. "And you? Do you ever let go?"
For the first time, Ishika hesitated. "Not as easily as I should."
A silence settled between them, heavier than before. But this time, it wasn't uncomfortable.
Then, Ishika leaned forward slightly, a glint of curiosity in her eyes. "So, what now?"
Abhi met her gaze, a newfound determination sparking within him. "I think it's time I stop being the fool."
A slow, knowing smile curved Ishika's lips. "Good. It's about time."
.....to be continued....