Bridges and Barriers

Savi Struggles with Change in Rajat

He couldn't afford to lose her by confessing his feelings. The risk felt monumental. As he stood there in the hallway, he felt the weight of his secret pressing down on him. He needed to hide his love for her, to keep things as they were, for the sake of their family, especially for Sai. The thought made his heart ache. Would he really be able to keep his feelings buried forever?

Savi and Sai bustled around the house, excitement lighting up their faces as they got ready for school. Savi helped Sai tie her shoelaces, and they both exchanged smiles, the morning routine a familiar comfort. Once they were dressed, they hurried down the stairs, their laughter echoing in the cozy home.

In the dining room, the aroma of freshly cooked breakfast filled the air. Bhagyashree, was setting the table, her expression a mixture of warmth and concern. As Savi and Sai sat down, Bhagyashree placed a plate of fluffy pancakes in front of them.

"Good morning, my little girls!" she said, her voice cheerful but her eyes betraying a hint of worry. "Savi, you should take a day off after your accident. You need to rest."

Savi shook her head, determination in her eyes. "Maa, I can't take a day off. I'm perfectly alright."

Bhagyashree nodded, still unconvinced, and called out to the Rani. "Please pack lunch for both Savi and Sai. They'll need it at school."

As Rani moved about, Rajat entered the dining room, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He walked over to the table, catching a glimpse of the warm breakfast spread. However, his mind seemed elsewhere, lost in thoughts that weighed heavily on him.

Savi, seated next to him, turned to him with a curious look. "Rajat?" she called softly, noticing his distant expression. When he didn't respond, she waved a hand in front of his face, and he flinched slightly, thinking about the punch.

"Are you okay?" Savi asked, concern lacing her tone as she observed his reaction.

"I'm perfectly alright," Rajat replied quickly, forcing a smile, but Savi could see the worry lurking behind his eyes.

She nodded, still not entirely convinced, and continued, "Do you know anything about my car? I've been meaning to ask."

Rajat's expression shifted, his shoulders tensing. "It was a case of accident, Savi. The car has been confiscated for now as part of the investigation. You shouldn't worry about it; I'll take care of everything."

Savi's heart sank a little at the thought of her car being gone, but she appreciated his assurance. "Okay," she replied, trying to sound upbeat despite the underlying anxiety. She gave him a small smile, hoping to ease the tension.

As breakfast continued, Bhagyashree attempted to engage them in light conversation, but Rajat remained quiet, lost in his thoughts again. Savi couldn't help but glance at him, her heart racing at the weight of unspoken feelings hanging between them.

As the family finished breakfast, Rajat stood up and grabbed his keys. "I'll drop you both off at school today," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. Savi looked up, slightly surprised by his sudden assertiveness, but nodded in agreement.

The three of them headed to the car, and soon they were on the road. Sai was humming happily in the back seat, oblivious to the tension between her parents. Savi sat in the passenger seat, occasionally glancing over at Rajat, who was unusually quiet.