Goodbye

Aisha woke up abruptly, startled by the unexpected smack on her face. Confusion clouded her expression for a moment, and she groggily tried to make sense of what had just happened. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, she looked towards Vikram, who was still lost in the depths of his dreams.

Irritation replaced the initial confusion as Aisha glared at her brother, who seemed blissfully unaware of the disturbance he had caused. With a determined expression, she reached over and pinched Vikram's cheek, not holding back in expressing her annoyance.

In his semi-conscious state, Vikram, feeling the discomfort from the cheek pinch, instinctively swatted her hand away without fully waking up. However, the unexpected retaliation only fueled Aisha's irritation further.

Feeling a mix of annoyance and mischief, Aisha decided to take advantage of the situation. Instead of pulling away, Vikram unconsciously drew her closer into an unintended embrace. Aisha, surprised by the sudden hug. Feeling an unusual sensation poking her stomach, Aisha was initially confused. As she glanced downward, her eyes widened in surprise, and she discovered a dragon nestled against her.

"How big!" she muttered in astonishment, her gaze fixed on the dragon. The creature seemed to defy the logical confines of reality.

However, as the initial shock subsided, Aisha became acutely aware of her own reactions. The sight of the dragon had unintentionally triggered a surge of emotions within her. Her breathing grew heavier, and an unexpected warmth spread across her cheeks, forming a blush.

Surprised by her own reactions, Aisha scolded herself under her breath, "How could I think like this?" In her moment of self-reflection, Aisha couldn't help but place the blame on Vikram.

Feeling an unexpected surge of sensations, Aisha peeked shyly at the dragon nestled against her. The encounter, however, had unintended consequences because of hard cherry. Her movement caused the friction of the clothes an unexpected reaction. Her cheeks flushed, and a shiver ran down her spine, creating a sensation akin to electricity coursing through her mind and body.

Uncomfortable with the newfound sensations and not wanting to be seen in such a state, especially in front of her brother, Aisha hastily pushed away from the hug with all her might. Breaking free, she quickly ran outside her room, seeking a moment to cool down and collect her thoughts.

Vikram, feeling a sense of loss, woke up to an empty bed. Momentarily confused, he got up, went to the washroom, and started his day without realizing the impact of his actions on Aisha's mind.

Meera woke up because of the noise and the aroma of food being prepared in the kitchen. Knowing her children were taking charge of breakfast, she lazily got up and went to freshen up.

Vikram called his mom and sister for breakfast. Aisha, arriving with a red face, avoided eye contact because of her shame. Vikram being concerned extended his hand to check her forehead, thinking she might be ill.

Aisha, reacting abruptly, asked, "why are you touching my head".

Vikram explained his concern, making Aisha realize her thoughts were a mess again, and she blushed.

During breakfast, Meera inquired about Vikram's return to the university. Aisha, surprised and emotional, pleaded with her brother to stay longer in a cute voice. Vikram, looking at her with a sigh, hugged Aisha and assured her he would come over the weekend if possible.

While petting her head, Aisha could only nod, and Vikram, addressing his mother, mentioned that he would leave after packing his bags as he had an afternoon class. Aisha, still with a hint of sadness, asked if he couldn't stay for a few more days. Vikram, looking at his mother, explained that he would return during the weekend if time permitted. Meera could only nod in understanding.

After packing his bags, Vikram bid a heartfelt goodbye to his mother and sister. As he walked towards the main road to catch an auto-rickshaw, Meera and Aisha watched him, their eyes following him until he disappeared from view. The house, once filled with Vikram's presence, now echoed with the absence of his warmth. A bittersweet feeling lingered, marking the departure of a beloved brother.

...

Vikram arrived at the university, the familiar campus unfolding before him as he gracefully stepped out of the auto-rickshaw. He scanned the surroundings and his eyes were drawn to someone with a familiar back, prompting him to walk towards her without hesitation.

Author's Note:

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