Chapter 43 — Don't Run Away

Arnav, Ritika and Rishi left the Qureshi mansion together.

They were on their way to the Singh mansion for the Pag Phera rasam.

On the way, Arnav stopped the car near an ice-cream shop.

Rishi looked through the window.

Rishi: Baba, Mumma doesn't like ice cream.

He paused.

Rishi: And I don't like it either.

Arnav looked at him through the mirror.

Arnav: Then what do you like?

Rishi smiled.

Rishi: Juice.

Arnav nodded.

Arnav: Fine. Let's have juice.

They stopped at a small juice shop nearby.

After getting their drinks, they walked toward a nearby park.

Rishi looked excited when he saw the playground.

Arnav: Champ, go play in the park.

Rishi: Okay, Baba.

Arnav looked at him.

Arnav: Stay where we can see you.

Rishi: Okay!

Rishi ran toward the playground.

Arnav and Ritika sat on a bench nearby.

For a few moments, neither spoke.

Then Arnav looked at her.

Arnav: Ritu.

Ritika: Hmm?

Arnav: You're not staying at the Singh mansion just because someone hurt you.

Ritika looked at him.

Arnav: I don't want you to feel like you have to run away whenever someone says something hurtful.

Ritika remained quiet.

Arnav: If you stay there, I want you to be happy there.

He paused.

Arnav: Not because you're running away from this house.

Ritika looked at him softly.

Ritika: I know.

Arnav: You can stay with your parents. You can spend time with them. I won't stop you.

Ritika nodded.

Ritika: I know, Arnav.

She smiled faintly.

Ritika: I wasn't trying to run away.

Arnav looked at her.

Ritika: I just wanted some time with Papa, Maa and everyone.

Arnav nodded.

Arnav: I understand now.

Ritika smiled.

Rishi came running toward them.

Rishi: Baba!

Arnav looked at him.

Rishi: Can we go?

Arnav: Yes, champ.

They returned to the car.

Rishi sat happily beside Ritika.

Arnav started the car and continued toward the Singh mansion.

This time, there was no misunderstanding between them.

Only a quiet understanding that Ritika could have two homes—

and Arnav would never ask her to choose between them.