Nalanda Khandar = Ruins of the Nalanda university

The bright afternoon sunlight spilled inside across the window, illuminating the dust particles dancing in the air. Anusuiya slipped the curtains on either side with a swift motion, the fabric swooshing softly as it slid open. The ticking sound of the curtain rings echoed through the room, followed by the sudden flood of light.

Rudraksh instinctively squinted his eyes in irritation, as the sharp rays fell on his sleeping figure. His face contorted, and he pulled the blanket above his head hastily, the fabric rustling as he burrowed deeper.

A low chuckle escaped Anusuiya's lips, and she approached the bed with slow, deliberate steps, her eyes fixed on Rudraksh's blanket-shrouded form. Her left hand moved precisely, and fingers curled around the furry fabrics as she gently pulled the blanket down from his face.

Rudraksh groaned, twisting his face in frustration, and turned to his side, snuggling his face into a pillow. The softness of the pillow seemed to envelop him, and he drifted back into a peaceful slumber.

Anusuiya's smile lingered as she watched Rudraksh's sleeping form. She reached out and gently separated the pillow from his grip, her fingers brushing against his hair.

Rudraksh's jaw clenched, and his fingers curled into fists as he suddenly sat up, eyes snapped open. With a fast movement, he threw the other pillow flying across one corner of the room, the sound of it hitting the wall with a soft thud. "What the h-"

Words faltered in his throat as his gaze met Anusuiya's fallen face. With a blank expression, he tossed the blanket off his body, and swung his legs over the side of the bed before he planted them firmly on the ground.

His eyebrows narrowed at the sight of his changed clothes. Swallowing the lump down his throat, he requested in a dry yet low voice, "Please, do not change my clothes ever again. I can take care of myself." With a hung head and limped arms, he approached the wardrobe with slow steps. The wooden door creaked softly as he opened it, pulling out a towel, and moved towards the bathroom. The click of the lock echoed through the room as he shut the door behind him.

Anusuiya's lips compressed into a thin line, a faint smile played on her lips. The jingling of payal followed her departure, as she walked out of Rudraksh's room.

💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥

The tap's gentle gurgle filled the air as water splashed against the sink. Rudraksh's hands cupped beneath the faucet, and he splashed chilled water onto his face. His eyes reddened, and he shook his head vigorously, causing the droplets scattered around the counter like tiny diamonds.

He tilted his head, fingers threading through brown hair, tangling in the roots. His hands slid down, before pressing against the metal counter with a soft clang. As his body leaned forward, the counter's edge dug into his skin. In the mirror plastered against the polished white wall, a pair of hollow eyes reflection stared back in a silent confrontation. Water droplets on his face glistened, refracting the light. His breath fogged the glass, momentarily blurring his features.

Who is this? His eyebrows twitched, lips pressed into a thin line, and a faint crease etched on his forehead. This is not me. I was never like this. How could I give someone else permission to play with my emotions? When did my life start revolving around just a girl? His throat bobbled up and down as he swallowed hard; gaze falling onto the the base of the mirror, avoiding any eye contact with his own reflection. A girl who didn't even think once before betraying me. What I didn't give you - Love, respect, space, time. I don't remember lashing out at you even for once. I always tried my best to fit in your standards. I always tried to make you happy, that I didn't realize when I left my true-self behind. I totally changed myself for you. His face contorted in frustration. Did I give you too much? Was I too dependent on you? I never tried to get close to yo—

His teeth gritted and face twisted in a scowl as the reflection once again bored into his soul. "Were you this desperate, Sanam?" he sneered, his voice laced with self-loathing. A scoff left his lips and he straightened his posture, Inhaling a deep breath. This was not what I wanted to be, ever. Never. I am Rudraksh. The same Rudraksh, for whom his career and dreams were his first priority. She was just a distraction-a long-term distraction. But not anymore, enough of tears, enough of pleas, and enough of grieving over a... betrayal. I don't mean anything to you, fabulous. You don't mean anything to me as well. From now on, it's just me, and my career. That's all.

His chest expanded with a deep breath, as the mirror reflected a resolute gaze, his eyes flashing with determination. "I loved you, Sanam. I truly loved you," he confessed in a low and stern voice. "And, you taught me-Why should I never do this shit again, ever."

His jaw clenched, the muscles rippling beneath his skin. "It's finished," he declared, the words slicing through the silence. With a swift motion, he turned toward the shower, the water bursting to life as he twisted the knob.

Warm water cascaded down, enveloping him in a soothing melody. His eyes closed, and his head tilted back, letting the droplets wash away the weight of memories. The sound of his clothes hitting the floor mingled with the rhythmic beat of water against marble, creating a symphony of release.

💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥

The sound of muffled footsteps echoed in the living room as Rudraksh made his way down the stairs, wearing a light-blue shirt paired with grey pants, buttoning his cuffs with an experienced precision. The silver Titan watch on his right wrist gleamed in the morning light, casting a subtle sheen on his skin. His hair was combed neatly, framing his clean-shaved face adorned with a mask of calmness.

He lifted his gaze, slacking his arm on either side as he approached the dining. His thin-almond shaped eyes crinkled at the corners seeing his younger brother looking up at him with a wide smile.

"You are looking very handsome, bhaiya!" Vardhaman exclaimed enthusiastically, his eyes shining with adoration. "But, are you going somewhere?" His eyes narrowed in confusion.

Rudraksh chuckled infectiously, his laughter rumbling deep in his chest. "I'm looking like a sunken mango, Maan." Taking a seat by Vardhamana's side, he exhaled a deep breath. "And, yeah. The new CEO has called a meeting, summoning all the team leads, and... me."

Vardhaman shook his head, narrowing his eyebrows. "No, it's because you have lost so much weight. A fair amount of gym and dieting, and then back to your real beauty." He closed his advice with a wink, and a toothy grin.

Rudraksh breathed deeply, his chest expanding, and bowed dramatically in front of Vardhaman. "Thank you for your prescription, doctor sahab. I for sure will follow your instructions."

The dining room got filled with siblings' laughter. They sat down to devour their lunch: golden-brown puri, shahi paneer, creamy bundi raita, navratan pulao, and white rasgulla dipped in sugar syrup.

Rudraksh's eyes darted around the dining area, his gaze lingering on the empty chairs as he munched on his food. Swallowing the last bite, he washed his hands in the plate's remaining gravy, and lifted the plate. The screech of the wooden chair against the marble floor echoed through the silence as he pushed it back, making his way towards the kitchen.

Vardhaman followed suit, his movements mirroring Rudraksh's. The clinking of metal against metal resonated as they placed their dirty plates in the sink. Water splashed, and the scent of hand-washer wafted up as they washed their hands. Rudraksh wiped his hands dry with a handkerchief.

Glancing around the room for one more time, his eyes met Vardhaman's. "Maan, where is everyone?" he asked, his voice calm and even.

Vardhaman widened his eyes slightly, innocent and questioning. "Who?" he replied, his brow furrowed.

Rudraksh's expression remained straight, but a hint of amusement danced in his eyes. "Your parents?" he clarified, his tone dry.

Vardhaman's eyebrows shot up, and he pressed his lips together. "You mean, our parents?" he asked, his voice laced with mischief.

Rudraksh's tongue poked into his cheek, and he struggled to restrain a smile, his eyes locked intensely on his brother's face. The playful tension broke by the sound of Vardhaman's suppressed giggle.

Vardhaman's grin stretched wide, revealing his aligned teeth. He cocked his head to one side, making Rudraksh's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Mom, Dad! Bhaiya's asking for you both," Vardhaman announced, his voice tinged with playful teasing.

Rudraksh's eyes widened, and he spun around, his face a picture of hesitant embarrassment. Vardhaman's stifled chuckle echoed through the air as he walked out of the kitchen jumping playfully, leaving behind Rudraksh in an awkward silence.

Anusuiya walked towards them, her red saree with golden dots shimmering under the soft light, the fabric rustling softly as she moved. Her face radiated with warmth, an affectionate smile spreading across her features. Aanand followed closely behind, his embroidered white kurta-pyjamas a stark contrast to Anusuiya's vibrant attire. His expression remained stern with hands clasped behind his back.

Rudraksh's gaze dropped to the floor, his footsteps measured and hesitant as he approached his mother. He leaned forward, his hands extended to touch her feet before bringing them back to his forehead, and then to his chest, the movement smooth and practiced.

Anusuiya's words tumbled out in a rush, her voice trembling with emotion. "Prosper well, my child. May God bless you with all the happiness in the world. Always keep smiling and laughing." Her eyes shone with unshed tears, her lips quivering as she struggled to maintain a smile.

She grasped Rudraksh's arms, her fingers curling around his muscles as she gently coaxed him to stand. Her palms cradled his face, warmth and love radiating from her touch. She pulled him into a tight embrace, the scent of his perfume and the softness of her saree enveloping them in a wave of tranquility.

Rudraksh's eyes widened slightly before reciprocating the gesture with a slow, hesitant movement. His throat bobbed up and down as he patted his mother's back. Time ticked by, the silence punctuated only by Anusuiya's soft sniffles.

Aanand's heavy sigh broke the stillness. "Leave him, Anusuiya. He's getting late. You can show your love and care when he returns."

Anusuiya let out a low and soothing laugh as she released Rudraksh from the hug. She dabbed the corners of her eyes with her saree's edge, the fabric rustling softly.

"Wait, beta. Eat a spoon of dahi-shakkar before going to work," she said, her voice warm. Rudraksh nodded faintly. The sound of rustling fabric filled the awkward silence as Anusuiya fetched the bowl.

Rudraksh's gaze flickered to Aanand, and he repeated the gesture of touching his feet-the movement swift this time. Aanand's expression remained stern, but his hand patted Rudraksh's shoulder with a firm touch. "Wear warm clothes. It's cold outside. And... take the car."

"That's not my car... And I'm just another employee, not the owner." Rudraksh's voice was low, his eyes fixed on the marble floor's intricate pattern.

Aanand clenched his jaw, staring at Rudraksh's lowered head with an unblinking gaze.

Anusuiya returned with a bowl of dahi-shakkar. She mixed the sweet treat with a spoon, the clinking sound echoing softly. She brought a spoonful to Rudraksh's lips.

Rudraksh parted his lips, letting the sweetness dissolve on his tongue before walking out of the kitchen. The soft thud of his footsteps faded into the distance, leaving behind the warmth of Anusuiya's gaze and the sternness of Aanand's expression.

The phone's shrill ring pierced the air, and Aanand's eyes narrowed as he reached for it, his fingers brushing against the soft fabric of his kurta pocket. He pulled out the mobile, and answered with a warm smile.

"Khush raho, beta, khush raho!" Aanand's voice was filled with affection. As he listened, his eyes sparkled with anticipation, his eyebrows rising slightly. Anusuiya's gaze was fixed on Aanand, her eyebrows furrowed in curiosity.

"So, you are coming, right?" Aanand's voice was hopeful, his tone rising at the end.
"Okay, okay, I'll be at the airport on time then." Aanand's smile broadened as he ended the call, his fingers gliding across the screen before slipping the phone back into his pocket.

"Who was it?" Anusuiya asked curiously with a warm smile plastered on her face.

Aanand's smile lingered, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You will know in the night." With a gentle nod, he turned, his kurta rustling softly against his legs, and walked towards his study.

🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁

"I'm telling you for the nth time. She will not come." A frustrated high-pitched voice came in a hushed tone behind the brown iron door.

"Stop being so judgemental. She will come." Another voice, more high-pitched than the former, spoke in an irritated hushed tone.

"You bait?"

"Yes."

"Done, then. You will pay for all the food we will be eating if you lose."

"Done. But if you lose, you will be buying all the tickets, for all three of us."

"That time will never come."

"We will see."

"Whatever. First, ring the bell."

*DING DONG* *DING DONG*

As the creaking door swung open, both girls composed themselves, hands clasped together in respect. Navya's eyes sparkled as she chirped, "Namaste, uncle!" Her smile stretched wide.

Nidhi stood beside her, a polite smile playing on her lips, her eyes crinkling slightly at the corners.

Raghav's face creased into a warm smile as he nodded his head. "Namaste, namaste."

"We are Ira's friends! Navya and Nidhi! Today is the first of January, and we're going to visit Nalanda Khandar! Could we take Ira along with us?" Navya's hands fluttered as she introduced herself and Nidhi, her words tumbling out in a rush.

Her enthusiasm was infectious, and Nidhi's eyes darted toward her, a hint of awkwardness dancing in their depths.

Raghav nodded, his eyes twinkling. "Come inside, beta. Ira is having lunch."

Navya dragged Nidhi inside before muttering "Thank you, uncle!" hastily.

Raghav stepped out, closing the door behind him, a soft thud echoed through the aisle , and the girls' laughter was muffled by the iron panel.

"Slow down, Navya!" Nidhi chided her in a whispery tone.

Main hoon ek udta robot... Doraemon~

Ira's voice, mimicking a childish tone from the TV, drifted through the veranda, making Navya and Nidhi's ears perk up.

Nidhi's lips curled down, and her eyebrows shot up in a picture of sarcasm. "She speaks."

Navya shot her a sidelong glance, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"Okay, okay, sorry." Nidhi's eyes rolled dramatically, and Navya mirrored the gesture before flashing her usual charming smile.

Navya rapped her knuckles against the door. "Ira!?" Getting no response, she knocked again, louder. "Ira!?" The wooden door creaked open, and Vaidehi stood before them, a colander clutched firmly in her hand.

"Namaste, aunty! I'm Navya, she's Nidhi. We live three streets away. We're Ira's friends from the typing class! We're going to visit Nalanda Khandar. Could Ira come with us?" Navya's words tumbled out in a rush.

Vaidehi's mouth fell agape, and her eyes blinked rapidly as she processed the request. She nodded, her eyes closing briefly before opening again. "Ira! Your friends have come," she called out, her voice warm and inviting.

Vaidehi stepped aside, revealing a glimpse of the interior. "Come inside, beta."

Both girls removed their footwear as Vaidehi escorted them inside the house, the scent of spices and cooking oil wafting through the air. "Did you both have lunch? Take a seat inside. I'm bringing some gulab jamun."

Nidhi's smile was polite, but her eyes darted toward Navya, who had already nodded. "Ah, no, no, aunty! We have eaten. Please, don't bother yourself."

Vaidehi chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Oh, beta, you can eat two-two pieces of gulab jamun." With a warm smile, she turned back into the kitchen, the clinking of dishes and the aroma of sweet syrup following her.

Nidhi eyed Navya sternly, only to get a wide grin in return.

"Hey, h-hi!" Ira stood at the doorstep, her warm smile illuminating her face as she greeted them. The empty plate and bowl in her hand clinked softly as she shifted her weight, her fingers drumming a gentle rhythm on the plate's rim. Her dark, damp hair cascaded down her back in tangled locks, framing her warm complexion. The black woolen pyjamas and shirt seemed to absorb the light around her, making her skin glow.

Navya's smile stretched wide, her voice bubbling over as she exclaimed, "Hello, Cutie!"

Nidhi's gaze drifted upward, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Hi, Ms. Arrogant."

Ira's smile faltered for a moment, then smoothed out as she said, "Please, make yourselves comfortable." She stepped aside, giving them a way inside.

Navya plopped down on the bed, her vibrant pink salwar-suit rustling softly. She adjusted the intricate embroidery, her fingers tracing the patterns as she settled in. Her hands moved mindlessly to the french-braided hair framing her fair face. Her eyes sparkled as she watched the cartoon playing on the television, her laughter bubbling up in response to a particularly funny scene.

Nidhi settled beside her, her eyes scanning every corners of the room with a sharp precision, before focusing on Navya. She crossed her legs, the soft denim of her grey jeans rustling softly, and unzipped her green jacket, revealing the deep blue shirt beneath. Her brown complexion shone as the sunlight spilled onto her face through the window, squinting her black eyes in reflex. She tilted her head, the shoulder-length hair framing her face like a veil.

The soft thud of footsteps made their heads turn. Ira approached with a tray, two bowls of gulab jamun and a bottle of water precariously balanced on it. The sweet aroma wafted through the air. "Here you go," she offered with a soft smile, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

Navya exclaimed, "Thank you!"

Nidhi nodded curtly, accepting the sweets.

As they took their first bites, their eyes widened in unison. "Delicious!" Navya's voice was filled with genuine admiration, the sweetness exploding on her taste buds. Ira smiled, her face relaxing into a warm expression, before turning to leave.

Nidhi leaned forward, her eyes locking onto Ira's, her voice taking on a gentle firmness. "Hey, get ready. We're going to visit Nalanda Khandar. Your parents have given permission."

Ira's eyes narrowed slightly as she blinked. "I-I can't go. I'm on my period."

Nidhi's expression softened. "No worries, we are not going to the temple anyway. So, you can come."

Navya's gaze lingered on Ira, her voice softer as she asked, "Are the cramps really bad?"

Nidhi's eyes lingered on Ira, her expression a mix of understanding and encouragement. "Long walks will help. And, anyway, it's around half-an-hour walk after a ten minute auto-ride."

Ira's eyes darted around the room, her gaze fluttering like a trapped bird as she chewed the inner muscle of her lower lip. Both girls' anticipating gazes lingered on her. "I'm sorry." The word slipped out softly.

Navya's face crumpled, her bright smile faltering as she exchanged a disappointed glance with Nidhi. They they stood up, adjusting their clothes with a rustle of fabric, and Navya forced a small smile. "No worries. We understand." Her usual bubbly tone was subdued.

"Take care." Nidhi's words were laced with concern as she gave Ira's shoulder a reassuring pat.

Ira's gaze lingered on their retreating backs, her eyes filled with apology. Her fingers tightened around the cold metal clutched in her palms, the edges digging into her skin. "Wait!"

Navya and Nidhi turned in unison toward her with furrowed eyebrows.

"I think I can come."

Navya's eyes widened, and with long strides, she covered the distance between them, enveloping Ira in a tight hug, making Ira chuckle as she patted Navya's back lightly. Nidhi smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

"Go, change! We're waiting!" Navya's voice bubbled over, her hands fluttering wildly as she bounced up and down. "We're going to have so much fun today! And we'll take care of you!"

Ira's face broke into a soft smile as she nodded. She hurried out of the room, Navya and Nidhi watching her go with matching smiles.

Navya pointed a finger toward Nidhi, a wide smile still plastered on her face. "Don't forget the bait."

Nidhi's expression turned amused, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Yeah, yeah."

They settled back on the bed, their attention drifting back to the cartoon playing on the television. The sound of laughter and colorful animation filled the room, leaving no trace of Ira's tense demeanor moments before

A/N: Not much happened, but we are proceeding.

Anyway, share your thoughts about Rudraksh's new determination, and the distinct personalities between all three girls.