Chapter 21: 19. Misunderstanding

English is not my first language. This chapter may contain many grammatical errors. Please ignore them and enjoy the chapter. Don't forget to give your beautiful comments.

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Without any further bak bak lets proceed with the nineteen th chapter of " Will I ever find my true love

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This time a big chapter for my lovelies......

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Ruhani dialed one of the numbers and when the call connected she said " Find Ms Anushree Mehra and Mr Akash Oberoi".

Ruhani was waiting over there when her car arrived and she got into it.

As Ruhani settled into the backseat of her car, the soft hum of the engine enveloped her, creating a cocoon of solitude amidst the bustling city. She glanced at her phone, where a notification had popped up with new information regarding Anushree Mehra and Akash Oberoi.

With a sense of urgency, she opened the message. The words were concise but impactful. It detailed a recent event that involved both individuals-an exclusive business meeting the previous evening at a high-end restaurant downtown, where representatives from several influential corporations were present. The meeting was shrouded in secrecy, and whispers of a potential merger had begun to circulate in the business community.

Ruhani leaned forward, her heart racing at the implications. She recalled a conversation she had overheard days earlier about a groundbreaking project that Anushree was spearheading-something that could alter the landscape of their industry. If Akash was involved, it meant he was likely at the center of heavy negotiations. Ruhani quickly pulled up their profiles on her phone, scanning through Anushree's ambitious career highlights and Akash's extensive professional connections.

As the car navigated through traffic, Ruhani's mind raced with possibilities. What was the nature of their relationship? Were they partners in this project, or was there more to their connection? The information she had just received implied that the meeting could have been pivotal for both their careers, but it also hinted at underlying tensions - rumors of rivalries and betrayals in the corridors of power.

She recalled various industry pundits discussing Anushree's rise to prominence, often overshadowed by the more charismatic Akash, who had his own loyal following. It intrigued her to think about how they must navigate their professional dynamics amid this competitive environment.

Intrigued, Ruhani felt a surge of determination. She needed to find them before rumors spiraled into chaos. "Where can I find them?" she pressed, determination propelling her questions. The answer was a location familiar to her-a hidden co-working space known for fostering innovation away from prying eyes.

As they pulled up to her destination, Ruhani couldn't shake the feeling that she was about to uncover something significant about Anushree and Akash-something that could either make or break their burgeoning careers. She stepped out of the car, ready to confront the unfolding drama that awaited her just around the corner.

She was feeling as if something was going behind her back but she was failing to see it. Ruhani was getting irritated right now, she was feeling so frustrated that if anyone comes in front of her right now she will not be able to control herself. She changed into a simple crop top and loose jeans and took her sling bag and moved towards a nearby restaurant.

As Ruhani stepped out of her car, the cool evening air brushed against her skin, invigorating her senses and sharpening her focus. Her footsteps slowed as she approached the nearby restaurant, its warm, inviting glow spilling out into the street. Through the large, glass windows, she could see the cozy interior filled with patrons enjoying their meals, the ambient light casting a golden hue over the tables, creating an atmosphere of intimacy. It was then that she caught sight of Anushree and Akash seated at a corner table, their expressions muted beneath the warm glow of the overhead lights.

Ruhani's heart skipped a beat when she saw them together. Anushree sat with her arms crossed, a slight furrow on her brow, while Akash leaned forward, his hand gesturing animatedly as he spoke. The distance she observed from, revealed the tension that danced between them; their body language spoke volumes. Anushree glanced down at her plate, her discomfort palpable, while Akash's intensity suggested he was passionately advocating for his point of view. Ruhani perked up, her mind racing with thoughts about what could be at stake-creative differences, personal challenges, or the pressure of their rising careers.

As she deliberated on whether to approach them, takeaway bags and wait staff weaving in and out of the restaurant blurred in her peripheral vision. The atmosphere was filled with the clinks of cutlery, soft laughter, and the comforting hum of conversation-a stark contrast to the emotional weight she sensed at their table. She could only imagine the discussion unfolding between them.

Ruhani's jealousy stems from a mixture of insecurities and the emotional weight of her relationship with Akash. As she observes him interacting with others, especially those with whom he shares a natural rapport, she feels an unsettling twinge of envy. It's not just about the interactions themselves, but what they symbolize-her fear of inadequacy and the worry that she might not measure up to the expectations set by those around them. This jealousy is particularly acute when she sees Akash laugh easily with friends or engage in conversations that seem more lighthearted than the serious discussions they often share, leaving her feeling like an outsider to moments that should include her.

Additionally, Ruhani grapples with fear that Akash's connections with others could overshadow her place in his life. The emotional bond they share is precious to her, and she's acutely aware of how quickly relationships can shift when new people enter the picture. This sense of looming competition triggers her insecurity, leading her to question if Akash would prefer the company of others who can easily connect with him in ways she struggles to. The multitude of emotions that bubble beneath the surface intensifies her jealousy, fueling a cycle of negative thoughts that distort her perception of their relationship.

It's important to note that despite these feelings of jealousy, Ruhani deeply values Akash and the relationship they have built. Her jealousy does not stem from a lack of love but rather from a desire to ensure that their bond remains strong and unshakeable. As she reflects on her feelings, she recognizes that they're rooted in vulnerability and fear of abandonment. This awareness creates an internal struggle-she wants to trust Akash and cherish their connection, yet her jealousy often clouds her judgment, leading her to react in ways she later regrets.

Ultimately, Ruhani's jealousy serves as a catalyst for introspection. It pushes her to confront her insecurities and communicate openly with Akash about her feelings. By acknowledging her jealousy instead of letting it fester, she has the opportunity to grow individually and as a couple. This evolution not only strengthens her character but also enhances their relationship, paving the way for deeper understanding and emotional intimacy. Through this process, Ruhani learns that jealousy can be reframed as a signal for personal growth, urging her to cultivate confidence and open dialogue rather than letting fear dictate her actions.

Ruhani moved towards their table. Ruhani started clapping and said " Wow, Akash; Wow Akash, so you are here with Anushree di, beautiful".

Ruhani's cheerful demeanor faded instantly as she crossed her arms, glaring at Akash. "You know what? I don't appreciate this whole 'just friends' act. You think it's funny to play games with my feelings?" Her voice was raised slightly, enough to draw the attention of nearby tables.

"What are you talking about?" Akash responded, taken aback by her sudden shift in tone.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about!" she snapped back. "You've been leading her on for weeks, and now it's like you don't even care. It's so frustrating to watch. I deserve better than this!"

Anushree looked between them, her expression a mix of confusion and concern. "Ruhani, it's really not like that-"

"No, Anushree, let me finish!" Ruhani cut her off, her emotions boiling over. " I am too nice to see it, but I am sick of watching myself get hurt while he plays the clueless boy. If you are not serious, just say it! No one has time for these mind games!"

Akash's mouth opened in protest, but Ruhani wasn't done. "You need to be honest with me , Akash! I thought you were better than this, but I guess I was wrong!"

Feeling the tension rise, Ruhani stood up abruptly, her frustration evident as she added, "I'm not going to sit here and watch this happen. I thought we were more than friends, but maybe I need to reconsider who I surround myself with."

With that, she stormed away from the table, leaving both Anushree and Akash in stunned silence.

After the confrontation in the café, Ruhani walked away feeling a tumultuous mix of emotions.

As Ruhani stepped out of the café, a wave of frustration washed over her, accompanied by a gnawing sense of betrayal. She felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes but fought them back. How could Akash do this to her? They had been together for months, and she had thought he truly cared about her. The sight of him laughing with Anushree-someone she considered a friend-felt like a raw wound.

She headed to the park nearby, where she often went to clear her mind. The fresh air should have been soothing, but instead, it felt heavy with her disappointment. Sitting on a bench, she tried to process her feelings. Thoughts of Akash and Anushree replayed in her mind, intertwining with memories of happier moments they had shared.

As she scrolled through her phone, she saw the messages from Akash flooding in. "Ruhani, please let me explain!" and "It was just a misunderstanding!" She felt torn. Part of her wanted to read his messages, to seek reassurance, while another part wanted to ignore him completely. After a few moments of internal conflict, she finally opened the messages.

"Ruhani, please give me a chance to explain. Anushree and I were studying for our project; that's all. I promise you, you have nothing to worry about. I care about you."

The sincerity in his words made her heart ache, but the images of their 'cozy' moment lingered in her mind. Taking a deep breath, she decided to respond. "I don't know, Akash... It felt like more than just studying. You two looked really close."

A few moments later, her phone buzzed again. "Honestly, she was helping me out. I didn't mean to make you feel left out. Can we just talk about this? I really don't want to lose you."

Ruhani looked out at the park, watching children play and couples laughing. There was a part of her that desperately wanted to trust him, but the pain of feeling sidelined was still strong. She typed back, "I need some time to think."

After pressing send, she sat in silence for a while, allowing herself to feel her emotions fully. Eventually, she stood up and began to walk home, contemplating what she wanted from her relationship with Akash. She understood that communication was key, but she also realized she wouldn't tolerate feeling disrespected or ignored.

As the evening sky turned golden, she resolved to have a calm conversation with Akash, to express her feelings and set boundaries. They needed to clear the air and rebuild the trust that had been momentarily shaken. The misunderstanding could be resolved, but it would require honesty from both sides. Right then, she felt a glimmer of hope that maybe things could be set right.

As the sun rose the next day, Ruhani felt a hopeful mix of anticipation and nervousness about her conversation with Akash. She suggested they meet at a quiet café, a neutral space that would allow them both to feel comfortable despite the difficult topics they needed to discuss. By choosing a familiar location, Ruhani aimed to create a setting that would foster open communication.

Upon arriving at the café, Ruhani greeted Akash with a warm smile, but both could feel the underlying tension. To set a respectful tone, Ruhani decided to start the conversation directly. "Thanks for meeting me, Akash. I really needed to talk about yesterday," she said. This straightforward approach helped establish an atmosphere of honesty and openness from the beginning.

Ruhani then expressed her feelings of hurt and frustration, explaining how the sight of Akash with Anushree had made her feel sidelined and betrayed. She used "I" statements to convey her emotions without placing blame, which helped prevent Akash from becoming defensive. After sharing her concerns, she invited him to explain his actions. "I really want to understand what happened. Please tell me your side," she said, creating space for him to share his perspective.

Listening to Akash, Ruhani learned that he and Anushree had been studying for a project together, emphasizing that he had never intended to make her feel excluded. Akash acknowledged that his actions could easily be misinterpreted and apologized for not recognizing how it might affect Ruhani. "I'm sorry if I made you feel that way. It was never my intention," he expressed, which helped to defuse some of the tension in the room.

With both sides having expressed their feelings, Ruhani brought up the importance of establishing boundaries within their relationship. She explained, "I need to feel secure in our relationship. It would help if we both communicated more openly about our relationship , especially with people who could be perceived as close to." This conversation emphasized her need for clarity and respect, which are crucial for building trust.

Recognizing that rebuilding trust takes time and effort, Akash expressed his willingness to work on their communication. "I understand now how important this is for you, and I want to make sure you feel valued and secure with me," he said. They agreed that trust was vital and discussed setting aside specific times each week to check in with each other about their feelings and any concerns that might arise.

As the conversation wrapped up, both felt a sense of relief and mutual understanding. Akash reached across the table to hold Ruhani's hand, promising to be more mindful in the future. "Thank you for being willing to talk it out. I appreciate you so much," he said, reinforcing their emotional connection. With their minds cleared and hearts a bit lighter, they laughed together, reminiscing about the happy moments they had shared.

In this way, Akash and Ruhani were able to work through their misunderstanding, emerging with a deeper understanding and renewed commitment to each other. By addressing their feelings honestly and setting clear expectations, they laid the groundwork for a more resilient and trustworthy relationship, ready to face challenges together while maintaining open lines of communication.

When both of them sorted out things and were having a normal conversation . Akash suggested " By the way , the day after tomorrow is our play ". Ruhani nodded and said " We will surely do the best " . Both of them shared a last hug and departed from there.

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On the day of the college annual function, excitement buzzed in the air as students prepared for the much-anticipated performance of Shakespeare's iconic play, "Romeo and Juliet." In the center of this atmosphere, Akash and Ruhani were set to take the stage as the titular star-crossed lovers, a role that would bring them even closer amid the theatrical chaos.

As the curtain rose, the stage transformed into a quaint Verona backdrop, filled with painted columns, soft golden light, and a carefully arranged balcony reminiscent of Juliet's famous scene. Akash, dressed in a classic Renaissance outfit with a touch of modern flair-a fitted vest, flowing white shirt, and stylish shoes-stepped into the role of Romeo with a blend of charm and youthful enthusiasm. His confident demeanor immediately captivated the audience, and he relished the opportunity to express his character's passionate love.

Ruhani, embodying Juliet with grace and elegance, wore a flowing white dress adorned with pastel accents that mirrored her character's innocence and beauty. As she took her position on the balcony, the collective breath of the audience seemed to catch in their throats. Ruhani's portrayal was heartfelt and poignant-her wide eyes and soft expressions conveyed both the youthful exhilaration and the tragic foreshadowing inherent in Juliet's emotional journey.

Their on-stage chemistry was undeniable. As Romeo and Juliet exchanged their iconic lines, Akash and Ruhani found themselves lost in the moment, inviting the audience into their whirlwind romance filled with longing and despair. The way Akash leaned toward Ruhani, his voice steady and filled with yearning, created an electric atmosphere. By contrast, Ruhani's sincere inflections and subtle movements showcased Juliet's tumultuous emotions, combining innocence with a longing for love that transcended the boundaries of their feuding families.

Behind the scenes, the preparation had tested their friendship, creating both tension and excitement. They had dedicated countless hours to rehearsals, sharing laughter and moments of vulnerability as they navigated their characters' conflicting emotions. This shared experience forged a deeper bond between them, bringing out emotional layers as they tackled the gravity of the material. Akash often found himself stealing glances at Ruhani as she rehearsed, recognizing her talent and the depth she brought to the role. For her part, Ruhani admired Akash's ability to channel Romeo's passion and charisma, which inspired her own performance.

As the climax approached, the audience was deeply engaged. The famous balcony scene unfolded beautifully, with Akash's heartfelt declaration to Ruhani, "But, soft! What light through the yonder window breaks?" Ruhani's equally passionate response resonated through the theater, showcasing their strengths as performers. The audience was completely absorbed, feeling the tension and tragedy of their love story, which mirrored some of their own emotional struggles as they navigated college life.

As the play continued, the lighter moments broke the tension, showcasing their characters' playful banter and warmth, creating a contrast to the tragic fate awaiting them. The final act emphasized the eternal conflict between love and societal constraints, sending chills through the audience as Ruhani and Akash delivered their lines with palpable emotional weight.

The atmosphere in the auditorium was electric with anticipation as the moment arrived for the chief guest, Sashwat Raichand, to take the stage. As the CEO of his own successful company renowned for its innovation and leadership, he was a figure of influence and charisma. With his sharp suit tailored to perfection and an easy confidence in his stride, Sashwat walked onto the stage, greeted by enthusiastic applause. But even amid the recognition and respect that came with his role, Shashwat's attention was drawn elsewhere.

As he stood at the podium, prepared to deliver his remarks, Shashwat's eyes were inadvertently drawn to the performance unfolding on stage. There, amidst a tableau of youthful exuberance and creativity, was Ruhani, effortlessly portraying Juliet with an intensity that took his breath away. Her presence was captivating; the way she held herself exuded a blend of grace and earnestness that seemed far beyond her years. The soft illumination on her flowing gown accentuated her every move, making it impossible for Sashwat to look away. In that moment, surrounded by students and faculty, he experienced a stirring sensation he hadn't felt in a long time-a warmth spreading through his chest and a flutter of excitement that surprised him.

As Ruhani delivered her lines, embodying the tragic depth of Juliet, Sashwat found himself captivated not only by her talent but by the raw emotion that radiated from her. Her expressive eyes reflected the full spectrum of love, hope, and despair, making the age-old story resonate deeply within him. He felt a connection he couldn't quite articulate, as if her performance was unearthing memories of his own youthful passions and dreams. Suddenly, the lavish world of boardrooms and negotiations felt distant, almost trivial in comparison to the authenticity of the art unfolding before him. In that vulnerable portrayal lay a beauty that stirred something inside Shashwat-a reminder of what it meant to feel alive.

The performance progressed, yet Sashwat remained utterly absorbed. Each laugh and tear, every moment of tension and tenderness shared between Akash and Ruhani, struck a chord within him. He couldn't help but admire how effortlessly she navigated the complexities of her character. To Shashwat, who often dealt with calculated risks and corporate strategies, witnessing her dive into a world of emotions offered a refreshing contrast. She had transformed into Juliet-a figure of endless possibility and heartache-and he found himself yearning to understand her, not just as an actress in a school play but as an individual with her own dreams and aspirations.

When the final curtain descended and applause erupted , the atmosphere transformed from that of tension to exhilaration. As the applause echoed in the theater and the stage lights dimmed, Ruhani took a moment to catch her breath. The adrenaline from the performance still buzzed in her veins, but her heart raced for a different reason as she sensed Shashwat's gaze upon her. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, a delightful flutter that mingled with a sense of curiosity and anticipation.

Ruhani had always been aware of Shashwat's quiet admiration during the last times when he had come to give the trophies. While they had shared a camaraderie as fellow actors, this new intensity in his gaze stirred emotions within her that she hadn't fully acknowledged. In that moment, separated by the noise of the audience, she felt seen in a way that went beyond their roles in the play. It was as if the world around them faded, and all that existed was the connection they shared-a silent conversation forged through looks and unspoken words.

Caught between exhilaration and shyness, she couldn't help but smile, her cheeks warming as she caught his eye. There was a vulnerability in that gaze; she sensed he was grappling with his own feelings, mirroring her own internal struggle between friendship and something deeper. The thought of exploring this connection excited her, yet she felt a slight hint of insecurity creeping in. Did he truly feel the same?

As she exchanged nervous laughter with friends, her thoughts drifted back to the moments they had shared during rehearsal-every stolen glance, every encouraging word. That night, she felt a magnetic pull toward him, a desire to transcend the stage and explore what lay beyond. She hoped he would approach her, that they could step into a new narrative together, one that could blossom like the love story they had just performed so passionately.

Akash and Ruhani took their bows, eyes sparkling with joy and relief, as they shared a knowing glance that spoke volumes about their friendship and partnership. They had not only brought the tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet to life but had also forged a connection that transcended the stage. Sashwat felt a mixture of exhilaration and melancholy. The reality of the production coming to an end pulled at him, and he realized that while he was moved by the performance, he was equally intrigued by the girl who had captured his heart. In that fleeting moment, he understood that he wanted to know more about her-to explore the possibility of a connection beyond the stage. As he stepped off the platform to mingle with the audience, Shashwat's mind raced with thoughts of how to approach her, to express the admiration that had taken root amidst the performances.

After the performance, backstage, the exhilaration of the moment turned into a celebration of their hard work and dedication. Surrounded by their peers, they exchanged congratulations, and Akash pulled Ruhani into a brief hug. "You were amazing out there!" he exclaimed, his eyes bright with admiration. Ruhani laughed, her cheeks flushed, replying, "You weren't so bad yourself, Romeo."

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After the function, the excitement of the night lingered in the air as Akash and Ruhani decided to extend their celebration with lunch at a nearby hotel. They were both eager to unwind and reflect on their performance over a good meal, the perfect opportunity to bask in their success and share more laughs.

As they entered the hotel's elegant dining area, the atmosphere was lively, filled with guests still buzzing from the event. Little did Ruhani know, Sashwat Raichand, the renowned chief guest of the function, was also in the hotel. A prominent figure in the arts, his presence sparked an instant intrigue within her.

While Akash grabbed a table and ordered their meals, Ruhani's curiosity got the best of her. She decided to take a peek at Sashwat's private room, located just off the main dining area, where she hoped to catch a glimpse of the famous business man , who had inspired her so much. She figured that maybe, just maybe, she could gather some inspiration or even a word of encouragement from him.

As Ruhani stood outside Sashwat Raichand's private room, anticipation had given way to a swirl of excitement and nerves. She had imagined encountering the famous business man in a more pleasant context, hoping he would share insights or encouragement. However, as she gathered her courage and took a step forward, she was unprepared for the harsh reality that awaited her.

Upon entering, the door swung open to reveal Sashwat himself, a tall figure exuding an air of authority. His expression shifted to disbelief and irritation as he faced her unexpected intrusion. "What do you want?" he snapped, his voice conveyed a clear disdain for being interrupted. The brusqueness of his tone hit Ruhani with an uncomfortable force, and she instantly felt the warmth of excitement dissipate.

"I-I just wanted to say hello," she stammered, her words emerging in a soft rush as she attempted to explain her presence. The enthusiasm she had felt moments earlier shattered in the face of his cold demeanor.

Sashwat's eyes narrowed, and he took a step back, gesturing toward the door with a dismissive wave. "This is a private room," he said curtly, his voice devoid of patience. "Precious time is being wasted on someone who clearly doesn't understand boundaries."

Ruhani's heart sank at his rudeness. She had expected a simple acknowledgment, perhaps a shared moment of inspiration, but instead, she felt belittled and exposed. "I'm really sorry for intruding," she managed to reply, her voice trembling slightly. "I just thought-"

"You thought what? That it was appropriate to barge in?" Sashwat interjected sharply, cutting her off mid-sentence. The irritation in his tone deepened, making it clear that he considered her presence an inconvenience, not only to him but perhaps to anyone seeking a moment of peace in that space.

Stung by his words and the sudden confrontation, Ruhani felt a wave of humiliation wash over her. She had come hoping to engage with someone she admired; instead, she was met with scorn. Trying to regain her composure, she glanced around the lavish room, searching for something-anything-that might grant her a semblance of confidence. But all she found was the oppressive weight of his gaze.

"Next time, think before you act," Sashwat continued, his tone now a mix of irritation and condescension. "There's a time and place for everything, and this wasn't yours." With that, he stepped back slightly, crossing his arms, clearly signaling that the conversation was over.

Feeling defeated, Ruhani took a small step back herself, the realization sinking in that she would not receive the interaction she had longed for. "Thank you for your time," she mumbled, turning to leave, her heart heavy with disappointment. As she walked away, the encounter echoed in her mind, serving as an unwelcome reminder of the inconsistency between the famous men she idolized and their reality.

As Ruhani returned to the table where Akash sat, her heart raced not from excitement, but from a mix of embarrassment and frustration. She tried to compose herself, but the memory of Sashwat's dismissive tone clung to her like a shadow, casting a pall over her earlier elation. The vibrant atmosphere of the hotel, full of laughter and celebration, felt starkly contrasting to the chilly reception she had just experienced.

Akash looked up, his smile bright, and his eyes filled with curiosity. "Hey, how was it? Did you get to meet him?" he asked, eagerly anticipating the story. But instead of the spirited recounting he expected, Ruhani felt her throat tighten. She forced a smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. She was torn between wanting to share the disappointment and the embarrassment of having approached someone she admired, only to be brushed off so brusquely.

"Uh, it didn't go as planned," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper as she slid into her chair. The weight of Sashwat's rudeness hung heavy on her shoulders. She took a deep breath, trying to shake off the encounter. She could see that Akash interpreted her silence as merely a moment of reflection, but for her, it felt like a turning point-a harsh reminder that not everyone in the world of art was as encouraging as she had hoped.

Akash leaned in, sensing that something was off. "Hey, don't let it get to you. He's just one person. You know you're amazing out there." His words were warm and supportive, the kind of reassurance she desperately needed in that moment. However, the encounter with Sashwat still gnawed at her, the sting of that encounter bubbling beneath her surface.

Ruhani forced herself to meet Akash's gaze, allowing a small laugh to escape her lips, although it was tinged with sadness. "Thanks, but it's hard not to take it personally. I thought I might learn something from him, but... well, not everyone is a fan, I guess." She felt a mix of determination and disappointment rising within her. "But you're right. His reaction doesn't define my journey. I just need to focus on improving and finding my own voice."

As they began to eat, Akash's encouraging words slowly seeped back into her thoughts. With each bite, she reminded herself that one rude encounter would not derail her aspirations. After all, she had the support of Akash, and there were many other avenues for growth and inspiration ahead of her. She resolved to let the experience fuel her drive rather than diminish it, transforming the setback into a stepping stone for her artistic journey. Whatever Sashwat might think, she was determined to carve out her own success, one performance at a time.

As Sashwat Raichand closed the door after Ruhani's abrupt departure, a wave of conflicting emotions washed over him. At first, he felt a surge of irritation at having been interrupted, a sentiment that had long characterized his interactions with fans and admirers. Yet, as the silence hung in the air, he began to reflect on the way he had spoken to her. The sharpness of his words lingered in his mind, and he couldn't shake the image of her crestfallen expression from his thoughts.

Deep down, Sashwat harbored a flicker of remorse. He understood that Ruhani had not intended to intrude but had been enthusiastic, perhaps even nervous about meeting someone she admired. He remembered moments from his own past when he had been starstruck and how much a kind word from an idol could mean. The realization that he had denied her that experience left a bitter taste in his mouth. The weight of his own ego stirred within him, and he couldn't ignore the disconnection between his artistic persona and his authentic self.

Despite this newfound understanding of his unkind behavior, Sashwat grappled with an internal conflict. Years of guarding his privacy and maintaining boundaries had created an emotional wall that felt impenetrable. He had conditioned himself to push away any perceived threats to his solitude, justifying his rudeness as a means of self-protection. Yet, deep inside, he recognized that this approach was ultimately isolating him from genuine connections, erasing the vulnerability that often fueled creativity.

As he paced the room, he wished he could turn back time and approach the moment differently. For him so often revered, he felt a growing sense of hypocrisy-his dismissive treatment of a hopeful young girl contradicted the very ideals of encouragement and mentorship he claimed to uphold in his work. The irony of it gnawed at him, and he realized that he had lost a chance to inspire someone who could have been a kindred spirit.

As Sashwat stepped out of his private room, a sense of unease settled over him. The regret from his earlier interaction with Ruhani gnawed at him, and he found himself wrestling with a mix of curiosity and remorse. He hadn't anticipated the impact of his words or the weight of his dismissal until they echoed in his mind. Now, he felt an uncomfortable need to make amends but wasn't sure how to go about it.

With a heavy sigh, he moved into the hallway, scanning the bustling atmosphere of the hotel. His heart raced slightly as he thought about the possibility of encountering Ruhani and Akash. Would they still feel the sting of his rudeness, or would they have brushed it off, moving on with their celebration? The uncertainty stirred an anxious knot in his stomach.

As he turned a corner, Sashwat's gaze fell upon Ruhani and Akash as they made their way toward the exit, laughter bubbling between them. Their jovial demeanor contrasted sharply with the heaviness that had enveloped him in the aftermath of their earlier conversation. He saw the genuine joy on their faces, their shoulders relaxed, and their eyes bright with excitement. They seemed to embody the spirit of camaraderie and success that he had momentarily lost touch with after his brusque encounter with Ruhani.

Suddenly, a wave of guilt washed over him, more acute now that he could witness the unfiltered happiness of the two young artists. Sashwat's heart sank at the thought that he had potentially tarnished the memory of their achievement with his harsh words. He was struck by the realization that it wasn't just a chance meeting; it had been a moment that could have fueled Ruhani's aspirations, a moment he, spoiled with careless arrogance.

For the first time, he began to feel the weight of his own actions. Seeing them walk out of the hotel happily, he envied their carefree nature-something he had sacrificed in the pursuit of maintaining a carefully built façade. As they exited, he longed to call out to them, to reduce the distance and express even a sliver of the regret that bubbled within him, but hesitation held him back. The fear of being met with their disappointment or resentment made him freeze, unsure of how to bridge the gap he had created.

As Ruhani and Akash disappeared from view, Sashwat felt an ache within him, a fixation on what might have been. He hadn't just lost an opportunity to uplift a talented young girl; he realized he had also lost a chance to reconnect with that sense of joy that comes from mentorship and support. Left alone in the hallway, he resolved to reflect more deeply on his interactions, wanting to change the narrative he had crafted around himself. The encounter weighed heavy on him, but it also ignited a desire for growth-a glimmer of hope that perhaps, in the future, he could approach such moments with kindness and openness instead of dismissiveness.

Not known but he felt something different for this girl something more than a fan maybe.......

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𝕤ᴏ ᴄᴜᴛɪᴇ𝕤. ᴛʜɪ𝕤 ᴡᴀ𝕤 ᴛʜᴇ nineteen th cʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ. ᴅʀᴏᴘ 𝕤ᴏᴍᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇʟʏ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴛ𝕤 ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴍʏ 𝕤ᴛᴏʀʏ. ɪ ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ʜᴏᴘᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪʟʟ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜɪ𝕤 ᴘᴀʀᴛ. ᴘʟᴇᴀ𝕤ᴇ 𝕤ʜᴀʀᴇ ɪᴛ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜʀ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅ𝕤 ᴀɴᴅ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ. ᴀʟ𝕤ᴏ ᴀᴅᴅ ᴛʜɪ𝕤 𝕤ᴛᴏʀʏ ɪɴ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʟɪʙʀᴀʀʏ. ʜᴏᴘᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ 𝕤ᴏᴏɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴇ𝕩ᴛ ᴘᴀʀᴛ. ᴛɪʟʟ ᴛʜᴇɴ ᴛᴀᴋᴇ ᴄᴀʀᴇ ☺☺.

ʙʏᴇᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇʟɪᴇ𝕤 😘😘....

ᴅᴏ ʜɪᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴠᴏᴛᴇ ʙᴜᴛᴛᴏɴ.... ᴘʟᴇᴀ𝕤ᴇ..... 😭

◦•●◉✿◦•●✿◉●•◦𝓦𝓪𝓲𝓽 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓮𝔁𝓽 𝓹𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓷  8 th  January 2025 ◦•●◉✿ ✿◉●•◦

Wishing you guys a HAPPY NEW YEAR 🎊 🎊 🥹😎😎😎🙂😊😊....

To be frank.

You cannot imagine the next part.....

So stay tuned 😄...