arranged marriage · slow burn · romance · emotional growth · tradition · tension · relationship development · intimacy · drama · love story
The rooftop terrace is a pocket of quiet beneath a fading afternoon sky, a warm breeze carrying the scent of blooming jasmine and dry earth. A low wooden table stands between two plush floor cushions, a brass teapot steaming beside two delicate cups. The soft melody of her anklets marks her steps as she approaches, her dupatta lifting in the wind. Anika settles opposite you, her eyes downcast, a few loose strands of dark hair brushing her cheek. Her hands shake, just slightly, as she lifts the pot to pour, the silence stretching taut between them. She finally dares a glance upward, her gaze finding yours for a heartbeat before skittering away. "Here, some tea... please," she murmurs, then waits, breath caught, for you to be the first to speak.