chapter 20

After Arti's marriage, Rahul tried talking to Shubhra, but she kept making excuses and avoiding the conversation.Rahul successfully reached out to Shubhra, and she agreed to have a conversation. It's a positive step for them to discuss things openly.Rahul : Can you please speak up and share the truth with me ?Shubhra : (with slight hesitation accepts) Yes, I am SANJANA.Rahul : I sensed it before. Just surprised it's true. Why didn't you tell me earlier ? And what's the reason for hiding your identity ?Shubhra : It's a long story. She explained her about the incident happened on new year eve and how someone helped her. But she doesn't know who he was ? As it was dark there.Rahul : I know about the incident but what's the reason for hiding your identity ? Shubhra : How do you know about the incident ?Rahul : Later, I'll let you know about it.Shubhra : Hunn...(with her eyes widened)Rahul : Come on, first tell me what happened next.Shubhra : After reaching home I was unconscious for 2 days. After 2 days, when I regained my consciousness, I came to know that some of my neighbours have seen me in that condition and they are pointing fingers at my character. (Her eyes are welled up with tears).Rahul : (seeing her tears, gently touched her shoulder) I can sense, at that time you have been gone through a lot. Sorry for not being there for you.Shubhra : It's Ok, (wiping her tears with back of her hand). I broke down completely and tried to commit suicide. Rahul :(voice tightened, anger simmering beneath his words)  What, you tried to commit suicide ? Are you insane ? (frustration evident in his tone).Shubhra : (while sobbing) At that time I was not able to think straight and my mind was also not clear. It was full of all negative thoughts.Rahul : So what, that doesn't mean you will take such a rash decision.Shubhra : (she looked up, touched by his gesture) It just feels overwhelming.Rahul :  I understand. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a difference.Their eyes met, and in that moment, his simple words and supportive gesture spoke volumes.Rahul : What happened next ?Shubhra : After that mom send me to Dehradun at my grandparents place with my new name Shubhra.And here, she told everyone that I had committed suicide. Only your parents and Arti knew about this truth.I was under treatment for depression for about 15 days at Guruji's Ashram. At that time Arti came to meet me once, when I was recovered. After that, for the next 5 years, we only communicated over the phone.After hearing her side, Rahul's eyes shows a mix of compassion and deep understanding. His silent feelings conveyed a shared sense of being serious and dignified. Even in silence, he expressed a true understanding of the emotional details creating a genuine connection.Shubhra : Now, explain how you're aware of the incident.Rahul : First, tell me, do you know the guy who saved you that night ?Shubhra : No, All I recall are his eyes, filled with concern, compassion, and something indescribable. His eyes spoke volumes, leaving an imprint of unspoken feelings that linger in my memory.Rahul's eyes locked with Shubhra's, carrying the same depth she recalled. Rahul : The emotions you remember, Shubhra, they're mine too. Try to see beyond the memory. Who saved you is right in front of you. The challenge was for Shubhra to unravel the truth herself.Following Rahul's revelation, Shubhra's emotions shifted from confusion to realization. Her eyes widened, mirroring a mix of surprise and understanding. The pieces of the puzzle connected in her mind, and a subtle smile played on her lips as she comprehended the truth.Shubhra : (with surprise evident in her expression), You were the one who saved me that night ?Rahul : (with a gentle smile), Yes, Shubhra. It was me. I've always been there for you."I have held onto hope for eight years, Shubhra. Each moment echoes my enduring belief that we'll be together again.Shubhra : But why did you suddenly leave for London ?Rahul : This is another hidden part of our story. When I returned home that night, my dad got upset, thinking I'd been in a fight. He didn't ask what actually occurred, and trust seemed to vanish. Without much discussion, he decided I should leave to London right away.Shubhra : What ? How could he decide that so quickly ? He should have listened to your side of the story !Rahul : I know, Shubhra. It happened so fast, he didn't even ask. Just made up his mind about London without hearing me out.Shubhra : Come with me.Rahul : Where ?Shubhra : Do you trust me ?In a quiet exchange, Shubhra invites Rahul to follow her, prompting a curious "Where?" from Rahul. Her next question carries a subtle depth, asking for trust in a moment that hints at shared adventures and understanding.