69

The cab stood waiting at the entrance of the studio, its engine humming softly as everyone gathered around. The late morning sun cast a warm glow over them, and there was a gentle breeze—almost as if the universe itself wanted this goodbye to be peaceful.

Tara stood slightly to the side, watching as Meeta and Rajeev said their farewells to the others. She still couldn't believe how much had changed in just a few days. From being terrified of facing them to now... this. A bittersweet feeling settled in her chest.

Rajeev turned to Aryan first, patting his shoulder firmly. "Take care, beta. And be responsible."

Aryan rolled his eyes. "I am responsible."

Rajeev raised an eyebrow. "Really? Because the last time I visited, your studio looked like a tornado hit it."

Everyone laughed, and Aryan groaned. "That was one time!"

Shaking his head with amusement, Rajeev then turned to Tara. His expression softened as he looked at her, his voice carrying a warmth she hadn't expected.

"Tara," he said, "if you ever need help with anything—work, advice, even just a second opinion—you have my number. Don't hesitate to call, alright?"

Tara's lips parted in surprise for a second before she nodded, smiling. "I will, Kaka. Thank you."

Before she could say anything more, Meeta chipped in with a smirk. "Not just if you have work. I expect at least one call once a week."

Tara blinked. "Huh?"

Meeta crossed her arms. "I need to know what's going on with you. How your studies are, how work is going... and of course, if my son is behaving himself." She shot Aryan a playful glare.

Tara chuckled, warmth spreading through her chest. "Of course, Maushi. I'll call."

Meeta's eyes gleamed with approval. "Good girl."

Aryan nudged Tara with a teasing grin. "You realize what you've just signed up for, right? You're stuck with her now."

"I don't mind." Tara smiled.

Rajeev turned to Tara, smiling kindly. "And Tara. Keep this one in check, alright?"

Tara chuckled. "I'll try my best."

"I am in check." Aryan crossed his arms and spoke.

"We trust her more." Meeta smiled as she wrapped her hand around Tara's arm, earning a chuckle from Tara.

"Great. I'm disowned." Aryan said, dramatically.

"Good, you know." Tara teased.

Rajeev patted Tara's head gently, his voice a little softer now. "I'm really happy you're back in his life. You mean a lot to him. And to us."

Tara felt a warmth spread through her chest. She nodded. "Thank you, Kaka."

Meeta stepped forward next. There was something different about her expression—softer, more affectionate. She took Tara's hands in hers, squeezing them gently.

"Tara," she started, her voice carrying a rare warmth, "I want to say something."

Tara nodded, a little nervous.

Meeta smiled. "I know I haven't made things easy for you. And I know I hurt you in the past. But trust me, beta, I have no doubts anymore. You are the right person for Aryan."

Tara swallowed, her heart feeling lighter than it had in a long time.

Meeta continued, "I don't just accept you. I want you to be a part of this family. And I know I have a long way to go to make up for my mistakes, but I promise, I'll try my best."

Tara's eyes stung slightly, but she held it together, offering a small smile. "That means a lot."

The cab driver honked lightly, signaling that it was time to leave. Meeta pulled away, cupping Tara's cheek one last time before stepping back.

Before getting into the car, Meeta turned to Aryan with a smirk. "And you—don't mess this up, got it?"

Aryan held up his hands. "No chance."

Meeta laughed before getting into the car. Rajeev followed, waving to everyone.

As the cab pulled away, Tara stood still, processing everything. Aryan slipped his hand into hers, giving it a light squeeze.

"See?" he murmured. "Told you she'd come around."

Tara exhaled, squeezing his hand back. "Yeah. You did."

And for the first time in a long time, she believed it.

~•~

It was one of those Sunday rare evening where no one had anywhere to be. No classes, no work, no plans—just time.

Tara, who had fallen asleep thanks to the grey weather, woke up to the soft sound of rain tapping against her window. She stretched, blinking sleepily, when her phone buzzed with a message.

Aryan: Open the door.

She frowned, confused, but got up anyway. As soon as she unlocked it, Aryan pushed the door open with one hand—his other hand was holding two cups of chai.

"Good evening, baby," he said with a lazy grin, stepping inside like he owned the place.

Tara folded her arms, narrowing her eyes. "Did I invite you in?"

Aryan scoffed, already making himself comfortable on her couch. "Do I need an invitation?"

She sighed but took the cup he handed her, warming her hands around it. "What is this?"

"A very romantic gesture," he said smugly. "I got chai for us, thought we could have a cozy evening together."

Tara raised an eyebrow. "And what would you have done if I was still sleeping?"

Aryan smirked. "Then I would've climbed into bed and woken you up the cute way."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her blush. "Unbelievable."

He patted the spot next to him. "Come here."

She hesitated for only a second before sitting beside him, tucking her feet under herself. They sipped their chai in comfortable silence, the sound of the rain filling the room.

After a while, Aryan shifted closer, wrapping an arm around her shoulder and pulling her into his chest. "This," he murmured, "is how I always want our evenings to be."

Tara looked up at him, smiling softly. "You're really sappy these days."

Aryan chuckled. "Only for you."

She hummed, resting her head against him. "I don't mind."

His hand absentmindedly played with her hair. "Good. Now, Movie?"

She smiled, "Yes."

And so, they sat there, their eyes glued to one of their classics, just like the old days. A movie complimented by their laughter, teasing, flirting and warmth. They sat there for a long time, the warmth of each other making the rainy evening even cozier. No words were needed. No plans, no rush.

Just them.

Just love.

💛