Stories

The Hug

It had just rained. The sweet aroma of the freshly wet mud was settling in. Untimely though, a slight shower in the month of love was the perfect gift for every couple. Rajiv and Sneha sat in their favorite spot. Unlike others, they didn’t bother the commotion around. Sipping their favorite chai, this tea stall’s bench had become an integral part of their life. 

While they both never ran out of topics to talk upon, today was a different day. The always bubby Sneha was quite as moon and the always cheerful Rajiv was lost in his own world. A slight smile played on his lips and Sneha couldn’t help but blush.  

Rajiv has a peculiar way of smiling and Sneha loved it from the core of her heart. “I have never seen such a fresh smile ever Rajiv” she always said. “I have something to tell you” said both of them together.

They both gave out a sheepish laugh. Rajiv immediately asked Sneha to speak. To which Shena said “no no…men first!” They both chuckled at the joke and silence tore in. Rajiv took in a huge breath and let it out.

He looked at Sneha. His eyes soft. His face smooth and his gestures obvious. Sneha already was melted. “Was this the moment?” she asked herself. Almost blushing in joy she looked at him. He said, “Sneha…I think I am in love…”

Sneha was eager to hear more. There was a twinkle in her eyes. She continued to look at him in a single stare. “You know, after Tina left me, I felt there is nothing left in life…but now, now I don’t feel the same anymore”

Sneha smiled. She had played a very been back his side during his breakup with Tina. Rajiv looked down and looked back up at Sneha and said, “I feel wanted again Sneha. I feel wanted! I feel amazing, I feel loved!” Sneha couldn’t wait anymore. Her patience were running out! She wanted to hug him, that’s when he said…”I think I am in love with Tanya”

Sneha was taken aback. Her face still wore a smile but her heart sank. He continued, ‘I think, she is perfect. She is so understanding, loveable, accepts me the way I am and…she looks also a little line Tina”

“Yeah..Tanya…She is a good girl for you Rajeev” said Sneha with a heavy heart. “She is a good girl” she said, this time reassuring herself…Rajiv kept looking at her..”Thank you Sneha. Thank you for always being there for me” he said.

Sneha could do nothing but simply smile back to him. He came forward and hugged her. She too hugged him with one hand while the other hand which was in her bag let loose a ring box that she had got and pressed it back into the depths of her bag…