Author POV

She sat on the sofa Infront of the coffee table which had a cake placed on it. Her eyes focused on the cake untouched.

When her mind wandered back to the time when she first time she had interacted with him with a letter with her documents.

She went to their room taking the stool beside the cupboard, she take the box which has their memories stored in kept with care. She took out the four years old letter the ink little faded.

Caressing the letter fresh tears welled up in her eyes fall on the letter she held it near her heart.

Flashback

Four years ago

Soniya's eyes widened as she rushed through the airport, her heart racing with every passing minute. The urgent call from home had left her shaken - her mother was hospitalized in India, and she had to be by her side.

But her mind kept drifting to the forgotten documents in her hotel room in America. The crucial deal papers, the result of months of negotiation, lay abandoned. Her business partner's words echoed "These papers are the key to our future."

Soniya had traveled to America to finalize the deal, and now it seemed doomed. Yet, family came first. She couldn't afford to waste a single moment.

As she boarded the flight, Soniya's thoughts swayed between her ailing mother and the precarious deal. Would her partner understand? Could she salvage the situation remotely?

After an endless journey, Soniya rushed into the hospital room. Her mother's frail hand grasped hers, and tears of relief streamed down Soniya's face.

"Maa, I'm here," Soniya whispered.

Her mother's eyes fluttered open, and a faint smile appeared. "I knew you'd come, beta."

Soniya's phone buzzed with messages from her partner. "Deal on hold. I need papers ASAP."

Torn between love and duty, Soniya vowed to find a way to save both.

The hospital room door swung open, and Soniya's father, Rajendra, walked in, carrying a bag of medication. His warm smile and gentle eyes reassured Soniya instantly.

"Hey, beta," he said softly, using the affectionate Hindi term for child. "I've got the medicines. Your mother will be just fine."

Soniya stood up, relief washing over her face. "Papa, I was so worried."

Rajendra enveloped his daughter in a comforting hug. "Don't worry, Soniya. Your mother is going to recover soon. Dr. Jain assured me."

Soniya stepped back, noticing the fatigue etched on her father's face. "You should rest too, Papa. You've been taking care of Maa day and night."

Rajendra chuckled. "I'm fine, beta. Your mother's health is my priority."

As Soniya's mother, Rukmini, stirred in her bed, Rajendra approached her. "Rukmini, our daughter is worried sick. Reassure her."

Rukmini's weak voice filled the room. "Soniya, I'm okay, beta. Your father is taking good care of me."

Soniya's eyes welled up again, but this time with gratitude. Her family's love and support enveloped her like a warm blanket.

Together, they formed a united front, ready to face the challenges ahead - both personal and professional.

She was thinking of how to save the deal which had been working on day and night. She had informed her business partner about the documents but she was still anxious now how to get those documents in hand.

The doctor who was operating her mother walked in with a small smile.

Dr. Jain's reassuring smile calmed Soniya's frayed nerves. "Your mother is stable now, Soniya. She's out of danger."

Soniya's eyes welled up with tears as she exhaled a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Doctor."

Dr. Jain's gentle tone softened. "We'll monitor her closely, but the surgery was successful. She'll recover well."

Soniya's shoulders relaxed, releasing the weight of worry. She glanced at her mother, whose peaceful face now seemed less pale.

"When can I take her home?" Soniya asked, her voice filled with gratitude.

"Within a week, depending on her progress," Dr. Jain replied. "Rest assured, she's in good hands."

As Soniya sat beside her mother, holding her hand, her thoughts shifted to the forgotten deal documents in America. Perhaps it wasn't the end of the world.

With renewed hope, Soniya texted her business partner: "Mother is recovering well. Will resolve documents soon."

Her partner responded: "Relieved to hear. We'll manage. Focus on family."

Soniya smiled, feeling grateful for understanding colleagues and medical professionals like Dr. Jain.

After a week

As the doctor said after a week her mother got discharged from the hospital. Rajendra had gone to the reception to sign the discharge papers, till then Soniya helped her mother with the nurse to dress in casual removing the hospital clothes.

As they existed the hospital driving to their home, they arrived to their home opening the car door Soniya open the door to help her mother get out.

The three of them were walking to the front door when her eyes fell on the letter box, a courier was placed half inside and half outside.

She walked towards it taking out the parcel, on which her name was written.

The parcel was from America from the same hotel she had stayed in.

"Kiska parcel Hai beta," Rajendra asked her.

"Mere Naam se Aaya Hai America se" she said examining the box.

" America se.....okay koi baat Nahi andar ja kar khol kar dekh Lena kisne bheja Hai " Rukmini said, as Soniya just nodded her head and they went inside.

As soon as Soniya make sure her mother was resting inside her bedroom her father taking care of her.

She went to her bedroom taking the parcel settling onto the bed she opened it.

Soniya's eyes widened as she opened the parcel, revealing the deal documents she had forgotten in her rush to leave America. The return address read "Dev Shekhawat Hotels" - a surprise gesture from the owner himself.

Soniya's eyes fell on the letter inside the box, her fingers tracing the elegant script on the envelope.

Dear Soniya,

I hope this parcel finds you well. I understand you checked out in a hurry and left some important documents behind. My staff recovered them while cleaning your room, and I wanted to ensure they reached you safely.

Please find the enclosed documents, which include your deal files. I understand their significance and wanted to return them to you promptly.

Best regards,

Dev Shekhawat

Owner, Dev Shekhawat Hotels.

As she finished reading, Soniya's gaze lingered on Dev's signature, appreciating his kindness and attention to detail.

Touched by his thoughtfulness she too thin of sending him a thank you letter.

Putting down the ink pen she fold the letter carefully, tucking it into the envelope.

She exhale cracking her knuckles. Exhausted from the day she doesn't take the dinner and slept.

Next morning after breakfast and making sure her mother had taken the medication. She went to the post office to post the letter.

America

Meanwhile, at Dev Shekhawat Hotels, Dev was immersed in a meeting with his employees.

"Alright, let's review our quarterly targets," Dev said, scanning the room.

His team leader, Rohan, nodded. "We're on track to exceed our projections, sir."

Dev's eyes narrowed. "What strategies are we implementing to maintain this momentum?"

As the discussion unfolded, Dev's phone buzzed silently on the conference table. A text from his front desk manager flashed on the screen: "Mr. Shekhawat, the parcel was delivered to Soniya as requested."

Dev's expression remained focused, but a hint of satisfaction flickered in his eyes.

After a week...

A week later, Dev Shekhawat stood in the conference room, surrounded by his dedicated team. The atmosphere was alive with anticipation.

"Good morning, everyone," Dev began, his voice filled with pride. "I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge your hard work and dedication. Our hotel's popularity in America has seen a significant surge, and it's all thanks to your tireless efforts."

The room erupted in applause as Dev continued, "Our customer satisfaction ratings have skyrocketed, and our online reviews are glowing. You've made Dev Shekhawat Hotels a household name in the American market."

Rohan, the team leader, beamed with pride. "Thank you, sir. We couldn't have done it without your visionary leadership."

Dev smiled, his eyes scanning the room. "This achievement isn't just about me; it's about every single one of you. From housekeeping to front desk, each department has played a crucial role."

As Dev handed out certificates of appreciation, the team's enthusiasm grew.

"You've not only met but exceeded our targets," Dev said, shaking hands with each staff member. "Keep pushing the boundaries of excellence. We're just getting started."

The conference room resonated with cheers, gratitude, and renewed commitment.

As the meeting adjourned, Dev walked out of the conference room, feeling proud of his team's accomplishments. Stepping into the reception area, he was greeted by the warm smile of his receptionist, Emily.

"Sir, you have a letter," Emily said, handing Dev a crisp, white envelope.

Dev's eyes scanned the envelope, noticing the American postal stamp and Soniya's elegant handwriting.

"Thank you, Emily," Dev said, his curiosity piqued.

He opened the envelope and pulled out the letter:

Dear Dev,

I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for returning my documents. Your kindness and professionalism left a lasting impression.

Your hotel's exceptional service and warm hospitality made my stay unforgettable.

Best regards,

Soniya Kapoor.

Dev's eyes lingered on Soniya's words, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. He folded the letter and placed it in his pocket, feeling grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact.

"Emily, please ensure our standards remain exceptional," Dev said, his voice filled with renewed commitment. "Every guest deserves a memorable experience."

Emily nodded, smiling. "Always, sir."

With Soniya's letter in his pocket, Dev walked toward his office, his stride filled with purpose.

Over the next few months, Dev and Soniya exchanged letters, sharing stories and experiences. Their correspondence blossomed into a beautiful friendship.

Dev found himself looking forward to Soniya's letters, eager to learn more about her life in India. Soniya, too, cherished Dev's thoughtful words, feeling connected to him across the distance.

As their connection deepened, their words became laced with affection. Dev's letters began to hold a gentle intimacy, and Soniya's responses whispered sweetness.

One day, Dev penned a heartfelt request:

Dear Soniya,

I feel like I've known you a lifetime, yet I long to see the smile that accompanies your words. Would you be willing to share a photo?

Yours,

Dev

Soniya's response arrived weeks later, a photograph enclosed.

Dear Dev,

I, too, yearn to see the face behind the kindness. Here's a glimpse of me.

Your words have touched my heart; I hope my image finds a place in yours.

Yours,

Soniya.

Dev's eyes locked onto Soniya's photograph, his heart skipping a beat. Her beauty radiated beyond the image.

He swiftly responded with his own photo, eager to bridge the visual gap.

Dear Soniya,

Your smile has captivated me. Here's a glimpse of myself.

In your eyes, I see a home.

Yours,

Dev.

Soniya's heart fluttered as she gazed at Dev's photograph. His warm eyes and gentle smile mirrored the kindness in his letters.

As they exchanged more photos, the connection strengthened. They began to share dreams, aspirations, and the possibility of a future together.

Their letters became more fervent, filled with longing.

Dear Soniya,

Every word, every photo, draws me closer to you. I dare to hope that our connection might blossom into something more.

Yours,

Dev.

Dear Dev,

My heart beats for you, across the distance. I, too, hope for a future where our love can flourish.

Yours,

Soniya.

Their love story, born from lost documents and nurtured through letters, transcended distance and time, becoming a testament to the power of connection and the human heart.

Flashback End

Soniya sat beside the cupboard, surrounded by memories. She held a worn box, its lid open, revealing stacks of letters tied with a faded ribbon. Tears streamed down her face as she gently untied the knot.

Each letter, once filled with promise and joy, now felt like a bittersweet reminder. Dev's words, penned with love and passion, seemed to whisper goodbye.

She reread the first letter, where Dev returned her documents, unaware of the bond they would form. Her fingers traced the script, remembering the flutter in her chest when she first read those words.

As she delved deeper into the box, Soniya relived moments of laughter, shared dreams, and whispered secrets. Every letter revived memories of their connection.

But now, he is gone.

Soniya's sobs intensified, her body shaking with grief. She clutched the last letter, the one where Dev professed his eternal love.

"My dearest Soniya,

Forever with you,

Dev"

The words blurred as tears fell onto the page. Soniya felt an aching void, an unbearable silence where Dev's voice once resonated.

She wept, mourning the loss of their future, their laughter, and their love.

Time stood still as Soniya immersed herself in memories, the letters her only solace.

The room dissolved into darkness as Soniya's tears merged with the words, her heart shattered into a million pieces.

Their love story, once a testament to connection and hope, now became a poignant reminder of love's fragility and the transience of life.

Soniya's mind struggled to accept the reality. Dev's absence felt like a temporary absence, as if he'd step into the room any moment, smiling. But the silence lingered, a haunting reminder.

She wandered through their home, tracing memories etched on every wall. Every object, every scent, whispered Dev's name.

In their bedroom, Soniya clutched Dev's pillow, inhaling his faint scent. Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, "Come back to me, Dev. Please."

The ache within her grew, unbearable. Soniya felt lost, disconnected from the world.

She replayed their conversations, his laughter, his words. "Forever with you, Dev." Had he truly left her?

Soniya's gaze fell upon their wedding album. Dev's eyes sparkled, full of life, full of love.

Dev's love would forever be etched in her heart.

Lost in memories, Soniya's eyelids grew heavy. As sleep engulfed her, she rested her head against the side of the cupboard, the box of letters still clutched in her hand.

The silence wrapped around her, a fragile calm, as Soniya drifted into a sorrow-filled slumber.

As morning light crept in, Soniya woke, sorrow still etched in her eyes. Longing for Dev, she began her daily routine, mechanical and numb.

Freshening up, she reached for the white Anarkali, its simplicity and elegance now a painful reminder.

"Don't wear white, it suits you, but please don't," Dev's words echoed in her mind. "I want to see you colourful."

But now, the white fabric clung to her body, mocking her.

Soniya recalled her red Anarkali, Dev's favourite, worn on their anniversary. Vibrant, full of life, just like their love.

She stood before the mirror, her reflection staring back, a haunting contrast.

The white Anarkali, once avoided, now seemed a cruel irony.

"Why did I wear this?" Soniya whispered, tears welling up.

Her reflection showed a woman lost, shrouded in grief.

Soniya's gaze dropped, focusing on the box of letters beside her. Dev's words, once filled with love, now seemed a distant memory.

She felt trapped in a world without colour, without Dev.

The white Anarkali, once a symbol of purity, now represented emptiness.

Soniya's heart ached, her reflection a constant reminder of what she'd lost.

"Dev, why did you leave me?" she whispered, her voice shattering the silence.

The mirror reflected her pain, her longing, her sorrow.

Soniya's eyes closed, unable to face the reflection, unable to face the truth.

Dev was gone, and she was left with only memories, and the haunting white Anarkali.

Friends and relatives filled the home, their faces etched with sympathy and pity.

Soniya's eyes, red-rimmed from tears.

"It's God's will," an elderly neighbor said, patting her hand.

But Soniya couldn't find solace in those words. Dev's loss felt like a personal tragedy, not a divine plan.

As the day wore on, the house filled with murmurs, sniffling, and sorrowful glances. Soniya felt suffocated, unable to escape the reality.

Each visitor brought memories, stories of Dev's kindness, his laughter. Soniya's heart swelled, grief intensifying.

Soniya's thoughts drifted to Kaveri Amma's words, "They have returned home with his dead body." The phrase echoed, a painful reality.

Dev was supposed to come home after one month, arms open, smile bright. Instead, he arrived silently, carried by four shoulders.

Their anniversary, once a celebration of love, now a haunting reminder.

Soniya recalled their plans, the laughter, the promises. "We'll celebrate, just us two," Dev had whispered.

But now, he lay still, his warmth gone.

She remembered the way Dev's arms enveloped her, his body warmth her safe haven.

"Come closer, I'll keep you warm," he'd say.

Tears streamed down Soniya's face as she gazed at Dev's lifeless form.

"Why did you leave me, Dev? Why didn't you come back to me on your own?"

Her heart ached, her soul shattered.

Their home, once filled with laughter, now echoed with silence.

Soniya's eyes fell upon the calendar, their anniversary date circled in red.

She felt empty, lost, alone.

"Dev, my love, why did you leave me?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

The silence was deafening, a cruel reminder of what she'd lost.

Soniya's world had shattered, leaving only fragments of memories, and an unbearable longing.

⁦⁦۔ ᕙ⁠[⁠･⁠۝･⁠]⁠ᕗ⁩

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