Chapter 38: 36. Naira is hurt

After a lively conversation, Samyuktika glanced at the clock and realized it was time to serve dinner. “The food is ready!” she called out, her voice carrying into the living room.

Naira and Rihaan exchanged excited looks as they moved toward the dining table. Ekansh followed, his expression curious as he caught a whiff of the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen.

Samyuktika had arranged everything beautifully: the Shahi Paneer glistened in its rich gravy, the Dal was perfectly seasoned, and the rotis were warm and fluffy. The matar pulao added a vibrant color to the spread.

“Wow, this looks amazing!” Naira exclaimed, her eyes wide with delight. “You really went all out, Samyuktika.”

“Thank you! I hope you enjoy it,” Samyuktika replied, feeling a swell of pride as they gathered around the table.

As everyone served themselves, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Rihaan took a bite and closed his eyes in bliss. “This is incredible! You really are a master chef,” he declared, making Samyuktika blush.

Ekansh watched her, a smile on his face. “I agree. You’ve outdone yourself tonight.”

Feeling encouraged, Samyuktika couldn’t help but smile back. “I’m glad you all like it. It means a lot.”

As they continued eating, Naira asked about their wedding. “So, how has married life been treating you both?”

Samyuktika glanced at Ekansh, who seemed to consider his response. “It’s been a journey,” he finally said, his tone thoughtful. “But I’m learning and adjusting.”

Naira nodded, a knowing smile on her face. “Every relationship has its challenges, but it sounds like you two are navigating it well.”

Samyuktika felt a flicker of hope. This was the moment she wanted—to show that their bond could grow stronger, even amidst the changes.

As the laughter and conversation continued, Samyuktika realized that she was finally finding her place in this new chapter of her life.

Samyuktika entered the quiet room, leaving her friends behind, their laughter fading as she closed the door. The dim light from the lamp on the bedside table cast a soft glow across the room. She stood in front of the mirror, her reflection a picture of serenity. Slowly, she began to remove the light makeup she had applied earlier—wiping away the remnants of mascara and dabbing away the last traces of foundation. Her skin, now bare, felt fresh, and she reached for her skincare products. With practiced hands, she massaged a gentle cleanser into her skin, followed by a soothing toner and moisturizer, allowing the calming routine to wash away the weariness of the day.

As Samyuktika continued her skincare routine, her mind wandered back to the evening. She couldn’t help but think about Naira, who had been dressed in a bold outfit that showed off her figure. The thought flickered through her mind—Naira looked confident, undeniably attractive, in her small clothes. Samyuktika smirked to herself, admiring how Naira could pull off such looks effortlessly, exuding an aura that turned heads wherever she went. It wasn't just the outfit; it was the way Naira carried herself, owning her style with a confidence that was hard to miss.

As Samyuktika settled into her bed, the quiet of the night only amplified her loneliness. Her thoughts drifted to Ekansh. Ever since his old friend had reappeared in his life, it felt like everything had changed. Kya aagayi hai yeh purani dost... she thought bitterly. Ekansh, who used to be so attentive, now seemed distant, always engrossed in conversations with his old friend. Samyuktika sighed, feeling as though his attention, once hers, had slipped away. A dull ache settled in her chest, and she couldn't help but wonder if she had already lost him.

Samyuktika couldn't shake the unease growing inside her. Whenever Ekansh's old friend was around, she noticed how the girl seemed to cling to him, always finding an excuse to be near him, touching his arm or leaning in too close during conversations. It made her uncomfortable—something about it just felt off.

Samyuktika's jaw tightened at the thought. She hated how obvious and desperate it seemed, the way this girl inserted herself into Ekansh's space, trying to draw his attention. Kya zarurat hai itna chipakne ki? she thought, a wave of irritation washing over her. She trusted Ekansh, but she didn’t like this kind of behavior from someone who was supposedly "just a friend." It left her with a sour feeling she couldn’t ignore.

On the other hand, Samyuktika’s thoughts drifted to Rihaan. She had noticed the way he looked at Naira throughout the evening—his gaze lingering on her with a softness that was hard to miss. There was something in the way his eyes followed her every move, a warmth that spoke volumes. It was subtle, but to Samyuktika, it was enough to give her a hint of what was brewing inside him.

Rihaan definitely feels something for her, she thought, a small smile tugging at her lips. His affection for Naira wasn’t just casual admiration—it was deeper, more tender. Samyuktika had seen it before in others, but seeing it in Rihaan made her realize how unaware Naira seemed of his growing feelings.

The three friends lounged on the couch, laughter echoing through the living room as they shared stories from their day. Naira, curious and slightly mischievous, leaned forward.

“Ekansh, tell me more about Samyuktika. What’s she like?” Naira asked, her tone light but her heart racing.

Ekansh’s eyes sparkled as he responded. “Samyuktika? She’s amazing! Always has a way of making everyone feel welcome. I love how she can light up any room with her laughter. And she’s really caring too.”

Naira felt a knot form in her stomach. “Really? Sounds like she’s pretty special,” she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

“Oh, she is,” Ekansh continued, oblivious to Naira’s growing unease. “The way she helps everyone out, especially when they’re down, it’s just… I don’t know, she has this warmth about her. I admire that about her.”

Rihaan chimed in, sensing the tension. “Yeah, she really knows how to be there for her friends. You should see her in action sometimes, Naira.”

Naira forced a smile, masking the jealousy creeping up inside her. “Sounds like she’s quite the catch,” she remarked, trying to sound casual.

Ekansh grinned, completely unaware of her feelings. “You have no idea! I’ve seen her go out of her way just to make someone smile. It’s inspiring.”

Naira’s heart sank as she listened. “I see. So, you really think she’s that great, huh?”

“Definitely!” Ekansh replied enthusiastically. “I mean, I’d do anything for her.”

Naira felt a sharp pang in her chest. “Well, I hope she knows how much you care,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ekansh nodded, still lost in his admiration for Samyuktika, while Naira forced herself to join the laughter, even as her heart ached with jealousy.

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Hello everyone

I am just here to announce you that with me my twin sister Nityaa is also going to post stories.

But when ..... I do not have any clarity.

But let's hope

Comment kar do nahin to voh mujhe maar dalegi.

And my sister is about to start tomorrow