Echoes of Love and Lies

Ria stepped into Arun's home, her face a mix of hesitation and determination. She approached him directly.

"Arun," she began, "I ran into Kiran near the office today. She asked if we were doing fine together. I told her we were, but… honestly, I'm not sure if that's the truth."

Arun raised an eyebrow, his expression softening. "Why do you think so? Are we not okay now?"

Ria sighed, fidgeting with her fingers. "I don't know. Sometimes I feel… conflicted. Like something's off, but I can't put my finger on it."

Without a word, Arun stepped closer and gently wrapped his arms around her. He rested his chin lightly on her head as he spoke. "Ria, relationships take time. We're still figuring things out, and that's okay. We've got a lot of time to travel this journey together, to understand each other better. Don't overthink it."

His warmth seemed to ease her tension. She leaned into his embrace, letting out a small laugh. "You're right. I guess I'm just taking things too seriously."

Arun smiled, his voice reassuring. "That's what I'm here for—to remind you to breathe."

The conversation ended on that note, leaving an air of quiet resolution.

That night, as Ria drifted off to sleep, Arun sat on the edge of his bed, deep in thought. An idea was forming—a way to reassure her, to show her they could navigate this together.

By the time morning rolled around, his plan was in motion.

Ria was startled awake by the loud chime of the doorbell. Half-asleep, she shuffled to the door and opened it to find Arun standing there, a mischievous grin plastered across his face.

"What are you doing here so early?" she asked, her voice groggy.

"I'm here to pick you up," Arun announced with a twinkle in his eye. "Go pack your clothes, essentials, and… oh, grab your passport too."

Ria blinked, still processing his words. "Wait, what? Where are we going? I have work today!"

"Don't worry, I've already applied for leave on your behalf," Arun said with a casual shrug. "Now hurry up and freshen up. We've got a flight to catch."

"Arun, this is insane! Tell me where we're going!" Ria insisted, half-annoyed and half-intrigued.

But Arun just smiled. "You'll see soon enough. Now, go get ready!"

Reluctantly, but with growing curiosity, Ria packed her things. Soon, the two were on their way to the airport, Ria firing questions at Arun the entire time.

"Arun, come on! Just give me a hint!"

But he remained tight-lipped, his mysterious smile never fading. "Patience, Ria. You'll know soon enough."

As they approached the airport, Ria's mind raced with possibilities. She had no idea what Arun had planned, but her heart was beating with a mix of excitement and anticipation.