The next few days passed in a whirlwind of excitement and planning. Aditi and Rohit found themselves spending more time together, both during family discussions about the house updates and in quiet moments away from the chaos.
One afternoon, while sketching out the final designs for the garden project, Aditi looked up at Rohit. "What if we added a swing set? Something for Karan and the younger kids?"
"That's a great idea! It'll make the garden feel more lively and inviting," Rohit replied, enthusiasm brightening his features.
Aditi couldn't help but smile. "I can already picture it—flowers blooming, kids laughing, us... just enjoying life."
"Us, huh? I like the sound of that," Rohit teased, his gaze holding hers a moment longer than necessary.
As they moved to finalize the details, the chemistry between them crackled in the air. Aditi found herself stealing glances at him, her heart racing at the thought of what lay beyond their friendship.
"Rohit, can we talk about something?" Aditi ventured cautiously, breaking the comfortable silence.
"Sure, what's on your mind?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly, signaling he sensed the seriousness in her tone.
"It's about... us," Aditi said, feeling a flutter of nerves. "I've been thinking about how much time we've been spending together lately."
Rohit leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "I've noticed too. It feels different, doesn't it?"
"Yes, and I like it. I like you, Rohit. More than I thought I could," Aditi admitted, her heart pounding as the words left her lips.
"I like you too, Aditi. More than I ever thought possible," he replied, a mix of surprise and warmth in his voice.
"I just... I want to know where we stand. Are we... are we more than friends now?" Aditi asked, searching his eyes for reassurance.
Rohit paused, a smile spreading across his face. "I want that too. I've been scared to say it, but I feel like we're stepping into something special."
"I'm ready," Aditi said firmly, her eyes shining with determination.
"Then let's take this journey together," Rohit replied, his voice steady.
"Together," she echoed, feeling a sense of relief wash over her.
Just then, their phones buzzed simultaneously, pulling them back into the present.
"It's Ananya. She's checking if we're joining them for dinner again tonight," Aditi said, glancing at her screen.
"Let's go. It'll be fun to celebrate our new project with everyone," Rohit said, a hint of excitement returning to his tone.
As they arrived at Ananya's home, the lively atmosphere was even more vibrant than before. Music filled the air, and laughter echoed through the rooms.
"You two! There you are!" Ananya exclaimed, rushing over to greet them. "We were just about to start a dance off. Are you in?"
"Absolutely," Rohit said, his smile wide.
Aditi laughed, the tension from earlier melting away as they joined the crowd.
As the night progressed, they danced, played games, and shared stories with their friends and families.
At one point, Aditi found herself sitting with Rohit on a quiet balcony, the sound of laughter fading into the background.
"Can you believe how far we've come? Just a few weeks ago, we were just two friends planning a house renovation," Aditi mused, gazing at the stars.
"And now look at us," Rohit replied, leaning back on the railing, his arm brushing against hers. "We're building something much bigger than a house."
"Yeah, it feels like... a new chapter in our lives," Aditi said, her voice soft.
"I can't wait to see where it leads," Rohit replied, turning to face her.
"Neither can I," Aditi said, feeling the intensity of their connection.
Just then, Ananya and her husband Arjun came out, breaking the moment.
"There you two are! We've been looking for you," Ananya said with a grin.
"We were just enjoying the night," Rohit replied, a bit sheepishly.
"Well, come join us! We're about to start a game of charades," Arjun announced, waving them inside.
Aditi and Rohit exchanged amused glances and got up to join the others, but the warmth of their earlier conversation lingered in the air.
As the game unfolded, Aditi felt herself getting lost in the moment. The laughter, the friendly competition, and the playful banter made her heart swell with joy.
Rohit was in his element, animatedly acting out his clues, and Aditi couldn't help but admire him.
During a break, they found themselves standing side by side, slightly apart from the group, taking in the lively atmosphere.
"You know, you really shine when you're in your element," Aditi said, nudging him playfully.
"Thanks! It's easy when I'm surrounded by friends," he replied, glancing at her with a hint of warmth.
"And me?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
"Especially you," he said, his tone sincere. "You bring out the best in me."
Aditi felt her cheeks flush, the compliment warming her heart.
"Let's not forget you do the same for me," she countered, her eyes sparkling.
As the night drew to a close, they found themselves walking home under the stars, hands brushing against each other as they strolled side by side.
"I'm really glad we came tonight," Aditi said, breaking the comfortable silence.
"Me too. It's moments like these that remind me how much I appreciate you," Rohit replied, glancing at her.
Aditi smiled, her heart full, feeling the comfort and closeness between them deepen.
"And I appreciate you, Rohit. More than words can say," she said softly.
"Let's make sure to have more nights like this," he suggested, his eyes shining.
"Definitely," Aditi agreed, her voice full of promise.
As they reached their homes, the warmth of their shared moments enveloped them like a soft blanket.
"Goodnight, Aditi," Rohit said, stopping at her door.
"Goodnight, Rohit. I'll see you tomorrow?" she asked, a hopeful smile gracing her lips.
"Absolutely," he replied, lingering for a moment longer before stepping back.
As Aditi closed the door, she leaned against it, her heart racing with anticipation for what tomorrow would bring.