Kaushal Bhavan, in Ruhani's room.
After Naina left, Ruhani spoke to Aakriti with tearful eyes, "I still can't believe Aarav is gone, and he did this to me."
Aakriti replied, "That's the harsh truth now; he's moved on. You should too, Ruhani. It's been a year."
Ruhani's face fell. "It's not that I haven't tried to forget him, but memories haunt me. Our laughter, our moments together... we were so happy, Aakriti. You know I used to cite our relationship as the perfect example, a couple goal. Yet, he left me! Am I that unlovable?"
Ruhani voiced doubts she never thought she'd entertain. Ruhani's outlook had always transcended societal norms – appearance, status, or wealth. She valued the person, not superficialities. This earned her admiration and criticism.
Aakriti's expression turned stern. "What are you saying, Ruhani? Where is this self-doubt coming from? You're flawless. The truth is, Aarav struggled with long-distance and betrayed you. Stop blaming yourself; it's time to heal."
Aakriti lifted Ruhani's chin, her voice filled with conviction. "You're blaming yourself for nothing. You're apologizing unnecessarily and begging for love from someone who deceived you. Can't you see? He was the one who erred! He betrayed you! Why can't you understand this, Ruhani?"
Indeed, they say love makes people blind. In love, they can't see right from wrong. Love brings joy to some, while others drown in an ocean of sorrow, struggling to escape. That's the nature of love.
Flash back
After Aarav's cryptic message ("Now I don't feel anything"), he had significantly reduced communication with Ruhani.
She assumed his busy schedule and long shifts at the office were taking a toll, making him irritable and unable to talk. However, this was unprecedented.
Ruhani was in her fourth year of college, and the lack of communication with Aarav affected her studies. Her exams were approaching, and she struggled to focus.
Two months prior, Aarav had visited Delhi from Gujarat for a week. Everything seemed fine between them then. Ruhani had even hosted an intimate cocktail party to celebrate his return, inviting only their mutual friends: Aakriti, Jay, Aman, and Raj, all school friends.
The party was at Aman's place, followed by a night's stay. Ruhani was overjoyed to reunite with Aarav after months apart. She had eagerly awaited his visit, delayed due to his new job.
The party was a blast – laughter, reminiscences of school days, and endless dancing. Ruhani spent quality time with Aarav, cherishing every moment, knowing his office schedule wouldn't permit another visit soon. This week was unforgettable for her.
Little did Ruhani know, Aarav's return to Gujarat would mark the end of their love story.
After Aarav's cryptic message ("Now I don't feel anything"), Ruhani asked, "Don't you feel anything for me anymore?"
Aarav's reply: "I don't."
Ruhani's eyes widened in disbelief; the Aarav who once showered her with love could never respond so coldly.
Aarav's responses to Ruhani's calls and messages grew scarce. One day, exhausted by her persistent attempts, he sent a message that shook Ruhani's world: "Ruhani, I don't love you anymore. Will you stop sending me messages?"
Ruhani was stunned, repeatedly asking Aarav for reasons behind their breakup, but he ignored her.
Aarav's silence was deafening. He ignored Ruhani's calls and messages, and when he did respond, it was always on his own terms, never acknowledging Ruhani's words.
Ruhani was baffled - what had changed in these two months? Everything seemed fine, yet Aarav had transformed into a stranger.
Ruhani's nights blurred into tears, her appetite vanished, and her focus shattered. She obsessively called and messaged Aarav, desperate for a response, for answers to her unanswered questions. Most of all, she yearned to reclaim Aarav's love.
Then, another message arrived, piercing Ruhani's fragile heart: "Ruhani, I know we shared good times, but now I can't love you. I can be your friend, but I can't love you anymore."
Ruhani was stunned, her world crumbling around her.
*******
What happens next?
How will Ruhani respond to Aarav's message?
Will Ruhani ever be able to forget Aarav?
Why did Aakriti advise Ruhani to move on?
What danger was Aakriti warning her about?
Why did Aarav start ignoring Ruhani?
Why did Aarav break up with Ruhani?
Let me know in the comments and likes below!
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'Chat By Fate' exclusively on Web Novel.
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