Chapter 46: #39: double date II

Vicky, Jiya, Rudra, and Aarohi stepped out, exchanging casual remarks about the fancy setting before heading inside. They were shown to a cozy table by the window, where they settled in, surrounded by the soft hum of conversation and clinking cutlery.

As they browsed the menu, the atmosphere remained light. They joked about the dishes, laughed at Vicky’s exaggerated stories, and ordered their food. But amidst the chatter, Rudra’s phone kept buzzing. He glanced at it, frowning, and cut the call multiple times without answering. Eventually, he excused himself to the washroom, phone still in hand.

Time passed, and when Rudra didn’t return, Vicky, who was seated across from him, started to worry. “I’ll go check on him,” he said with a sigh, getting up and heading toward the washroom. The remaining two, Aarohi and Jiya, continued to chat casually, though Aarohi couldn’t help but glance in the direction Vicky had gone.

Minutes ticked by, and when neither of the boys returned, Aarohi grew concerned. “I should go see what’s going on,” she said to Jiya, who nodded. Aarohi stood up and walked toward the washrooms.

As she approached, she could hear low voices coming from just outside the washroom. She quietly rounded the corner and saw Vicky speaking in a hushed tone to Rudra, who looked frustrated. Aarohi couldn’t make out the entire conversation at first, but she caught snippets of Vicky trying to convince Rudra to go somewhere, while Rudra was shaking his head, clearly not agreeing.

Vicky noticed Aarohi and gave her a hopeful look, “Aarohi, maybe you can convince him. He won’t listen to me. Please talk to him.” With that, Vicky patted Rudra on the shoulder and walked back to the table, leaving the two of them alone.

Aarohi approached Rudra, her brows furrowed in concern. “What’s going on? What was Vicky talking about?”

Rudra avoided her gaze, scratching the back of his head. “It’s nothing,” he said with a dismissive wave. “He’s just being ridiculous. It’s not important. Let’s get back, I’m starving.”

He started to turn away, but Aarohi wasn’t having it. She grabbed his hand, pulling him gently but firmly back. “Rudra, I’m asking you,” she said, her voice soft but insistent. Her eyes searched his face, trying to read what he was hiding.

Rudra shook his head slightly and said, “It’s nothing, Aarohi. Let’s just go back.”

But Aarohi wasn’t one to give up that easily. She stepped in front of him, blocking his path, and her gaze softened. “Rudra, please. Just tell me what’s going on.”

With a sigh of resignation, Rudra finally gave in. “Fine, it’s about tomorrow. There’s a match, and Vicky thinks some selectors will be there. He wants me to go with him… It’s a big opportunity.”

Aarohi’s face lit up. “That’s great! What’s the problem, then? You both should definitely go. It could open doors for you.”

Rudra shook his head again, avoiding her eager eyes. “No, Aarohi, you don’t get it. The match is in Chennai. If I go, it’s not just for one game. It’s back-to-back matches… it’ll take about a week or two  before I can come back, even if I fly.”

Aarohi blinked, surprised by his hesitation. “Okay, but it’s just a week, Rudra. Why wouldn’t you go? It’s an amazing chance.”

Rudra looked down at her, his expression softening. He reached for her hand, holding it gently. “Because I don’t want to go,” he said quietly. “I mean, I don’t want to go and leave you here. I’ve only just got you back after all these years, Aarohi. I don’t want to be away from you now. Not for a week, not for anything.”

Aarohi felt a warmth spread through her chest, and for a moment, she was at a loss for words. The sincerity in his eyes, the way he held her hand like he didn’t want to let go—it tugged at her heart.

She smiled softly and squeezed his hand in return. “Rudra, I’m not going anywhere. It’s just a week. You should go, for you, for your future.”

Rudra bit his lip, still conflicted. “But what if—”

Aarohi placed a finger on his lips, silencing him. “We’ve waited this long. I’ll be here, waiting for you.

Aarohi smiled softly, trying to lighten the mood. “Actually, I’ve been meaning to tell you... I’m going to have my winter vacation soon. So, I was thinking of going back to my hometown for a bit.”

Rudra, or Roop as she fondly called him, looked at her in surprise. “What? For how many days?”

“Maybe 10 to 15 days,” Aarohi replied casually. “I think I’ll be leaving in about three days. And Jiya’s going too, maybe.”

Rudra’s lips formed a slight pout, his brows furrowing. “You didn’t even tell me.”

Aarohi chuckled softly and gave him an apologetic look. “I was going to, after tonight, but... this whole Chennai thing came up, and I thought, well, it’s perfect. It’s good for both of us. I can visit my hometown, and you can go to Chennai. So neither of us has to stay here alone.”

Rudra sighed but smiled softly, accepting her logic. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

“Come on, let’s go. I’m hungry,” Aarohi said, taking his hand and leading him back toward the table.

They returned to the restaurant where Vicky and Jiya were waiting. The casual chatter resumed as they all enjoyed their dinner, but in the back of both Rudra and Aarohi’s minds, the thought of parting for the next week lingered. Despite the impending distance, there was comfort in knowing that they would find their way back to each other soon.

While they were leaving the restaurant, Vicky said with a playful grin, "Rude, you go and take the car with Aarohi, and I’ll drop Jiya."

Rudra asked, "But why?"

Vicky gave him a knowing smile and said, "Samajh karna bhai."

Rudra smirked, catching on, and said, "Okay." Then he turned to Aarohi and said, "Vicky has some work, so they’re going, and Jiya’s going with him. We’ll have to go alone."

Aarohi nodded, "Yeah, okay."

As they got into the car, Rudra took a different path that didn’t lead to Aarohi’s hostel. Aarohi immediately noticed, "Rudra, you’re taking the wrong way. You should’ve taken that turn."

Rudra replied calmly, "I know."

Aarohi, confused, said, "Rudra, please, I can’t come today. I have classes tomorrow morning."

Rudra, with a soft voice and a baby-like expression, pleaded, "That’s fine, Aarohi. Please, let's spend some time together. I’m leaving tomorrow, maybe at 5 am."

Aarohi looked at him, and seeing his cute expression, she couldn’t say no. She smiled and said, "Fine."

They reached Rudra’s place, and as they entered, Aarohi went in first. Rudra came in after her, closing the door behind him. He gently hugged her from behind and placed a soft kiss on her neck.

Aarohi giggled, "What are you doing? Is this why you brought me here?"

Rudra grinned, "Of course."

Aarohi raised an eyebrow, "What?"

Rudra chuckled, "Of course not.

I just wanted to spend some time with you."

Aarohi relaxed, "Like?"

Rudra teased, "We can... watch a movie, talk about things... anything you want."

Aarohi smiled, "That sounds good."

Rudra then said, "First, let me change."

Aarohi laughed, "But I don’t have my clothes here!"

Rudra playfully replied, "Why bother? Everything that’s mine is yours." He went to his wardrobe, opening it wide. "Pick anything you like."

Aarohi eyed the oversized shirts and shorts in his wardrobe, thinking they were too big for her. Rudra noticed her hesitation, grabbed a random t-shirt and shorts, and began changing. As he took off his shirt, revealing his toned muscles, Aarohi couldn’t help but admire his physique.

Rudra then moved to change his shorts when Aarohi blurted out, "Stop! Go to the bathroom to change."

Rudra grinned mischievously, "What? I’m not going to be fully naked. Just changing pants."

And yuu already have seen....

Aarohi, flustered, placed a finger on his mouth "You are so shameless. Just... go!"

Rudra laughed, "no"

Aarohi, smiling, turned her back to him and said, "Shut up!"

Rudra continued to tease her as she looked through his clothes.

Aarohi picked the smallest t-shirt and shorts she could find from Rudra’s pile and headed toward the bathroom to change. As she walked away, Rudra smirked and called after her, "You sure you don’t want to take a look before I finish changing?"

Aarohi paused for a second, flustered, and turned her head slightly, her voice firm but playful. "Shut up, Rudra."

Rudra laughed, his deep voice echoing through the room. "I’m just saying… I’m not going to be fully naked. I’m only changing my pants."

Aarohi quickly turned back, her cheeks flushed. "You’re impossible," she muttered as she went into the bathroom, closing the door behind her.

Inside, she caught herself smiling, feeling her heart race. She could still hear Rudra chuckling outside, teasing her in that light, carefree way he always did. She slipped into the oversized t-shirt and shorts, realizing just how big his clothes were on her, but the thought of wearing something that belonged to him made her feel warm inside.

Meanwhile, outside, Rudra finished changing and was already leaning against the wall, waiting for her with that same teasing grin.

Aarohi stepped out of the bathroom, now draped in Rudra’s oversized shirt and sweatpants. The fabric hung loosely on her frame, making her feel oddly comfortable, yet a little out of place. She scanned the room for him but found it empty. Curious, she wandered down the hall.

There he was, in the kitchen, his back turned to her as he fiddled with something on the counter.

"What are you doing there?" Aarohi asked, her voice cutting through the quiet.

Rudra turned at the sound, his eyes locking on hers, but he didn’t say a word. Instead, he slowly walked towards her, each step deliberate, until he was just an inch away. His hands found her waist, holding her firmly, the heat from his palms seeping through the thin fabric. Aarohi’s breath hitched as she tilted her face upward to meet his gaze.

"Did I say you could wear my clothes?" His voice was low, teasing.

"You did," Aarohi shot back confidently, a smile tugging at her lips.

Rudra leaned closer, his lips just above her ear. "I’m taking it back."

Aarohi blinked, confused. "What?"

"I want my clothes now," he whispered, his tone suggestive. "Take them off."

The meaning behind his words hit her, her face flushing. Before she could respond, Rudra lightly nudged her with his leg, pushing her back a step.

You’re such a tease, you know that?"

Rudra pushed himself off the wall and walked over to her, his eyes softening. "Only for you," he whispered, brushing a strand of hair away from her face.

Aarohi smiled, her earlier embarrassment fading as she looked into his eyes. "Let’s just watch that movie, okay?" she said, trying to change the subject.

"Yeah, yeah," Rudra agreed, but not before pulling her closer into his arms for a brief hug. He kissed her forehead, his embrace warm and secure. "But only after this," he added with a mischievous smile.

Aarohi sighed, laughing softly. "Fine, but no more teasing."

Rudra winked. No promises.

Aarohi leaned back on the sofa, the TV screen casting a soft glow across her face. "So, what are we watching?" she asked.

Rudra, still in the kitchen, glanced over his shoulder. "You decide. I’ve made some popcorn. I’ll bring them in. You choose the movie."

Aarohi walked over to the sofa, plopping down as she grabbed the remote. She switched on the TV, scrolling through Netflix’s endless list of movies. A few minutes later, Rudra entered with a big bowl of popcorn, a few snacks, and two drinks. He placed them on the table and sat beside her.

"So, have you decided?" Rudra asked, grabbing a handful of popcorn.

Aarohi sighed. "No, I’m confused. There’s too much to pick from."

Rudra chuckled and reached for the remote. "Should I?"

"Yeah, please," Aarohi nodded, relieved.

With ease, Rudra scrolled through the options and picked a movie within seconds. "Romantic or action?" he asked, glancing sideways at her.

"Of course, romantic," Aarohi grinned.

"As expected," Rudra smirked, selecting a Hollywood romantic movie.

They settled into the movie, but as the plot started to drag, Aarohi broke the silence. "Did you talk to Myra?"

Rudra's expression stiffened slightly. "No, not since I came back. We had a fight."

Aarohi tilted her head, concerned. "I think you should."

"I don’t think so," Rudra replied, his eyes still on the screen.

"She’s your longest friend, your best friend. You can’t just throw that away," Aarohi insisted.

Rudra sighed, giving in. "Okay, I’ll think about it. Now watch, there’s a scene coming up that’ll blow your mind."

Aarohi shifted her attention back to the screen, just in time for a steamy romantic scene between the movie's leads. As the heat turned up on-screen, she couldn’t resist teasing Rudra. She leaned closer to him and whispered, "Look at that... he's such a good kisser."

Rudra’s head snapped toward her, his eyebrows raised in disbelief. "What did you just say?"

Aarohi kept her composure, biting back a smile. "I’m just saying, look at this hot guy. He’s an amazing kisser."

Rudra narrowed his eyes, playfully offended. "Oh, really? Let me show you who the best kisser

Rudra didn’t waste another second. His hand gripped Aarohi’s waist, pulling her roughly towards him, their bodies pressed so close that she could feel the heat radiating off his skin. Without hesitation, his lips crashed against hers, hungry and demanding. Aarohi’s breath hitched, but she didn’t resist. Instead, she leaned into him, her fingers sliding through his hair, tugging him closer.

His kiss was fierce, filled with a raw need that sent shivers down her spine. Rudra held her tightly, his hands firm on her waist, as though he wanted to merge their bodies into one. With a swift movement, he guided her down onto the sofa, his body covering hers as he deepened the kiss.

Aarohi gasped softly when Rudra’s hand slipped under her T-shirt, his touch hot against her bare skin. His fingers traced a slow, deliberate path over her breast, causing her to arch into him, her body responding instinctively to his every move.

Rudra pulled away for a moment, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, his voice thick with desire. "Now, you dare to say that again."

Aarohi let out a breathy laugh, her fingers gripping the back of his shirt as he dipped his head to her neck, his lips trailing down, leaving a searing path over her skin. His mouth moved to the hollow of her throat, sucking gently, teasing her, making her pulse quicken.

Her fingers dug into his back as he continued, kissing down her collarbone, his hands still roaming beneath her shirt, his thumb brushing over her nipple. Aarohi’s breath came in ragged gasps, but she didn’t stop him—couldn’t stop him. Her body was alight with sensations, every touch, every kiss sending her mind into a haze.

Rudra’s lips found her mouth again, this time slower, more deliberate, savoring her taste.

Their lips parted as they both gasped for air, Rudra still hovering over Aarohi, his chest rising and falling in sync with hers. The room was thick with tension, the heat of the moment lingering between them. Slowly, Rudra pulled back and sat upright, running a hand through his hair. Aarohi adjusted herself, sitting up beside him, her heart still racing.

"I think you got your lesson," Rudra teased, his voice low and playful. Aarohi pressed her lips together, suppressing a smile, her eyes glinting with mischief.

The silence between them crackled with unspoken desire. Rudra stood up, his movements calm, as if he had all the time in the world. He crossed the room, switched off the TV, and then turned to face her. Aarohi watched him intently, her breath still shallow, her pulse quickening again.

Rudra’s gaze darkened with intent. "I think we can just skip this whole movie thing... and do that."

Aarohi raised an eyebrow, playing along. "Do what?"

"You know," Rudra replied, his lips curving into a smirk. Without another word, he strode towards her, scooping her up effortlessly into his arms. Aarohi let out a surprised laugh as he held her in a bridal position, his strong arms keeping her close.

He carried her towards the bedroom, and with a soft click, he shut the door behind them.

🌞

The shrill sound of the alarm cut through the quiet room, ringing out at 4 a.m. In an instant, Rudra reached over and silenced it with a single tap. The sudden stillness returned, broken only by the soft rise and fall of Aarohi’s breathing beside him.

He turned his head to look at her, her face peaceful in sleep, strands of hair falling loosely across her cheek. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he watched her for a moment, taking in the sight of her lying there, so close yet so calm, unaware of the world around her.

For a moment, he considered waking her, but instead, he shifted carefully, not wanting to disturb her.

Rudra quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to wake Aarohi as she lay peacefully beside him. After getting ready in the bathroom, he sent a quick message to Vicky: "Meet me at the airport." He paused by the bedside for a moment, watching Aarohi sleep, his hand reaching out as if to wake her, but he stopped himself.

Instead, he scribbled a quick note, folding it neatly before sticking it to the side table. One last glance at her, and then he left.

When Aarohi woke around 7 a.m., she instinctively reached for Rudra, but the space beside her was empty. Frowning, she glanced towards the bathroom, thinking he must still be there. Just as she was about to check, her eyes landed on the note.

With a sleepy smile, she unfolded it and read:

*Hello, good morning, my dear aaruh If you’re reading this, then you’ve woken up, and I’ve already left.

Sorry I didn’t wake you when I was leaving.

I almost did, but then I thought about how I didn’t let you sleep the whole night… so I figured you could use a little more rest.

I’m already missing you as I write this, even though you were right beside me just moments ago.

Okay I'm getting late .

Love u 💓

Aarohi smiled softly after reading Rudra's note, feeling a warmth spread through her. But before she could dwell on it any longer, her phone buzzed loudly, pulling her attention away. An unknown number flashed on the screen. Curious, she answered.

"Hello?" she asked.

A moment of silence passed before a male voice spoke on the other end. "Is this Aarohi?"

Aarohi hesitated for a second. "Yes, it is. Who’s calling?"

The man’s voice was calm but direct. "Your mother gave me your number."

*******

"Hello, my lovely readers.

I know it's been a while since my last update, and I got caught up with some things.

At one point, I started doubting if my story was even good enough, and I think I may have lost some readers along the way.

But then, thanks to one dedicated reader [yogita] who asked me to continue, I decided to updat.

If you enjoy the new chapter, please vote, leave a comment, and

don't forget to follow me on Instagram and Wattpad

Ig: kritika.writes_

Thank you!"