Ruhi had always believed that love was a game she could win. She had played her part flawlessly-soft, vulnerable, different from the rest. But now, for the first time, she felt like she was losing.
Abhi was slipping away, and she couldn't let that happen.
-
The morning sun streamed through the college courtyard as Ruhi walked towards Abhi, putting on her most radiant smile. He was standing near the parking lot, his phone in hand, looking more serious than usual.
"Hey, stranger," she greeted, slipping her arms around his. "You've been so busy these days."
Abhi looked at her and smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Yeah, just a lot on my mind."
Ruhi hated those words. She wasn't used to being ignored. "Is it about me?" she asked, tilting her head playfully.
Abhi hesitated, then shook his head. "No, it's just... family stuff."
Ruhi let out a breath of relief. "You know you can talk to me, right?"
"I know," he said, but his tone lacked conviction.
Before Ruhi could say more, a familiar voice called out, making her stomach tighten. "Abhi!"
Ishika Malhotra.
She approached them, effortlessly elegant, her presence commanding attention without trying. Ruhi stiffened as Abhi's posture straightened slightly.
"Your mom called me," Ishika said to Abhi. "She wanted to confirm the charity event details."
Ruhi's jaw clenched. Why was she involved in his family matters?
"I'll text her," Abhi responded, his voice softer when speaking to Ishika than it had been with Ruhi just moments ago.
Ruhi's fingers dug into Abhi's arm. "We were just about to go for coffee. Right, babe?"
Abhi seemed surprised by the sudden possessiveness in her tone but nodded. "Yeah, sure."
Ishika gave Ruhi a polite smile. "Enjoy."
Ruhi returned the smile, but her nails bit into her palm. As Ishika walked away, Ruhi turned to Abhi, her voice carefully measured. "She seems close to your family."
Abhi shrugged. "Our families have known each other forever."
Ruhi forced a laugh. "Must be nice, having someone so perfect around."
Abhi sighed. "Ruhi, don't start."
"I'm not starting anything." She looked at him, eyes wide with false innocence. "I just feel like you've been... distracted lately."
Abhi exhaled. "I'm here with you, aren't I?"
Ruhi smiled, but inside, she knew she needed to act fast. If she let things continue this way, she might lose him.
And that was not an option.
......to be continued.....