Chapter 7: A Week Away (pt.2)
The morning sun streamed through the thin curtains, casting golden light across the room. Shyam stirred awake, momentarily disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings. But the soft murmurs of conversation and the faint aroma of breakfast reminded him that he was at his grandparents' house.
He sat up, rubbing his eyes. The wooden floor creaked as he stepped out of bed and made his way to the kitchen, where he found his grandparents and Raitha chatting animatedly.
"Morning, sleepyhead," Raitha greeted with a teasing smile, holding a cup of steaming tea.
"Morning," he mumbled, running a hand through his messy hair.
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Exploring the Village
After breakfast, Shyam decided to show Raitha more of the village. They borrowed his grandfather's bicycles and set off down the dusty path, the morning air crisp and refreshing.
"This is way better than being cooped up in the café," Raitha said, her voice filled with excitement.
Shyam chuckled. "Told you it's nice here."
Their first stop was the village market, a bustling hub of activity with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
"Look at these!" Raitha exclaimed, pointing to a stall displaying intricately carved wooden figurines.
"Grandpa used to buy me one every time I visited," Shyam said, picking up a small figurine of a bird.
"Do you still have them?"
He nodded. "Most of them. They're at home in a box somewhere."
Raitha smiled, imagining a younger Shyam eagerly collecting the little carvings.
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The Hidden Pond
Next, Shyam led Raitha to a hidden pond surrounded by lush greenery. The water sparkled in the sunlight, and the air was filled with the gentle rustle of leaves.
"This was my favorite spot as a kid," Shyam said, sitting down on a flat rock near the edge of the water.
Raitha joined him, dipping her fingers into the cool water. "I can see why. It's beautiful."
They sat in companionable silence for a while, listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Then Raitha turned to him with a curious expression.
"Did you ever come here with anyone else?"
Shyam shook his head. "No. This was my place. A place to think."
She nodded thoughtfully. "I like that you brought me here."
He glanced at her, surprised by the sincerity in her voice. "I thought you'd appreciate it."
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Childhood Stories
As they walked back to the house, Shyam shared more stories from his childhood. He pointed out the small school he had attended during his visits and the old well where he and his cousins would play.
"I can't believe you used to climb that tree," Raitha said, looking up at a massive mango tree with branches stretching wide.
"I had to if I wanted the best mangoes," he replied with a grin.
Raitha laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You must've been a handful."
"My grandparents would agree," he said, chuckling.
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A Quiet Evening
The day ended with a quiet evening on the porch. Shyam's grandmother brought out a tray of tea and biscuits, and they all sat together, watching the sunset.
"This place feels like a dream," Raitha said softly, her gaze fixed on the horizon.
Shyam's grandmother smiled. "It has that effect on people. It's why we never left."
As the sky darkened, Raitha leaned back in her chair, a contented expression on her face. "Thank you for bringing me here, Shyam."
He looked at her, something warm stirring in his chest. "I'm glad you came."