The festival marked a turning point in their relationship. Anjali and Aarav became inseparable, exploring together the most intimate corners of the city and their hearts. However, a shadow loomed over Aarav, one that Anjali could feel but that he was not ready to share.
Finally, one night, as they sat on the steps of an ancient temple, Aarav broke the silence. With his gaze fixed on the stars, he began to speak, his voice full of pain and regret.
«There is something I haven’t told you, Anjali. Something that has haunted me for years and that I have never been able to overcome.»
Anjali felt a knot in her stomach but said nothing, giving him space to continue.
«Many years ago, when I was a teenager, I made a decision that changed my family’s life forever. My father was sick, and I, in my youth and recklessness, chose to go to London to pursue my studies instead of staying by his side.» Aarav paused, swallowing hard. «He died while I was away, and my mother never forgave me. I… have never forgiven myself.»
Anjali felt the weight of his words, understanding for the first time the magnitude of the pain Aarav carried. She wrapped her arms around him, feeling him tense before relaxing against her.
«You can’t blame yourself forever,» she said softly. «You did what you thought was right at the time. And your father… I’m sure he knew how much you loved him.»
Aarav let out a deep sigh, as if finally releasing a burden he had carried for too long.
«I came back to Varanasi to try to make amends with my mother, but also to reconcile with that past. And now… now that I’ve met you, I feel like there’s a possibility of redemption, of starting over.»
Anjali hugged him tighter, feeling how her own wounds began to heal along with his. She didn’t know what the future held, but at that moment, under the stars, she knew they were destined to face it together.
