1. Shadows of Longing

Author's POV

Inside the mansion, a girl is preparing dinner for his husband, while listening to music.

The girl radiated a natural beauty that was both striking and effortless. Her features were soft yet defined, with sparkling eyes that conveyed warmth and curiosity. Long, curly hair framed her face, two strands were dancing on her face, highlighting her beauty.

A gentle smile played on her lips, revealing an inviting spirit. Her skin had a radiant glow, and her smile was infectious, lighting up the room. There was an inherent grace in her movements, making her presence enchanting.

Ishika's POV

I prepared all of Sahil's favorite dishes, pouring my heart into every recipe. I know how picky he is-his sensitive stomach means he rarely enjoys outside food. But I don't mind; there's a special joy in creating meals just for him.

As I chop the vegetables and stir the spices, I imagine his smile when he takes the first bite. Each dish is a little piece of love, a way to show him I care deeply. I always pack his lunch with the same care, arranging everything neatly in his the container, hoping he'll appreciate the effort.

There's a warmth in the kitchen as the aromas fill the air, a sense of anticipation that makes my heart flutter. It's these small moments that bind us together-sharing a meal, a connection that feels so alive. I hope he knows that every dish is a reminder of how much he means to me, a token of my love in each bite.

Today is his birthday, and I want nothing more than to celebrate it with him. I've poured my heart into baking a special cake, hoping it captures just a fraction of the love I feel for him. There are no extravagant decorations; I know he prefers simplicity over lavishness. So I've kept everything warm and cozy, just like the moments we've shared.

As I set the table, each detail reminds me of the little things he loves. I can almost picture his smile when he walks through the door. I'm filled with anticipation, waiting for him to arrive, hoping that this small gesture will show him just how much he means to me. The thought of him enjoying the cake makes my heart flutter.

Looking at the watch, I let out a sigh. It's 9 PM. To pass the time, I start scrolling through Instagram, but the brightness of the screen only intensifies the darkness in my heart.

Two hours slip by, and a wave of anxiety washes over me. I glance at the clock again, feeling that familiar ache of disappointment. Deep down, I know he won't show up; part of me has always known.

I can't shake the feeling that I'm just a shadow in his life, a responsibility he drags along, a reminder of what he lost. I'm not someone he cherishes; I'm a burden, an obligation.

The weight of that realization settles heavily on my chest. It's a cruel irony: here I am, waiting for someone who doesn't truly want to be here, while I cling to the hope that somehow, someday, he'll choose me. But as the minutes crawl by, that hope feels more like a dream I can't afford to keep.

I always believed that my love would melt his defenses, that one day he would finally respond to the depth of my feelings. Yet, that day never came.

Now, I find myself clinging to a hope that only deepens my heartache. After countless moments of waiting and longing, I finally decided to eat alone. The quiet dinner feels like a reflection of my loneliness, each bit heavy with unspoken words and unfulfilled dreams.

•••••×••••×•••••••×•••••••••

Author's POV

At 12 am

A car pulled up to the grand entrance of a mansion, its polished exterior gleaming in the artificial light. The sprawling estate, with its intricate architecture and perfectly manicured gardens, loomed impressively.

A handsome man stepped out of the car, with his confident stride he approached the mansion.

Dressed in a tailored suit, he exuded charm and sophistication. The man possessed an effortless beauty, characterized by chiseled features that spoke of both strength and elegance.

His deep-set eyes held a captivating intensity, framed by dark lashes that accentuated their color. High cheekbones and a strong jawline added to his striking profile, while his tousled hair fell perfectly into place.

The man had a well-defined physique, showcasing a blend of strength and athleticism. Broad shoulders tapered down to a trim waist, emphasizing his strong build.

His arms were muscular, hinting at a commitment to fitness, while his chest was broad and sculpted. He moved with a grace that belied his size, each motion fluid and confident. The overall impression was one of vitality and power, a body that spoke of both discipline and an active lifestyle.

As he reached the grand door, he paused, taking a deep breath, he entered inside the mansion.

when he entered the mansion, there was no one around him, and the dishes on the dining table had gone cold. He glanced across the dull living room and went upstairs to his bedroom.

The bedroom door was slightly ajar and he pushed it open. The main light was switched off and the curtains were pulled shut. Only a lamp near the bedside was lit and a faint scent lingering in the bedroom.

He glanced towards a figure lying on the bed, the dim light casting shadows across the room.

He stood quietly, captivated by the beauty of the sleeping woman. Her hair cascaded softly around her face, catching the light in delicate strands. The gentle rise and fall of her chest created a rhythmic serenity but there was a subtle crease forming between her brows that hinted at unrest. Despite her beauty, the tension in her expression suggested she was lost in troubling thoughts or perhaps a restless dream.

He felt the urge to smooth the crease from her brow, to whisper words of comfort, but then a sudden thought caught him off guard. Memories flooded back-moments he had buried deep, he felt a sudden anger which pulled him away, and he found himself retreating from the room, leaving her to her dreams.

__________________________________

End of the Chapter.

Pls vote⭐....do share your thoughts about the chapter. And also follow my account to get notified whenever I update my story!