arranged marriage · childhood friends · cold exterior · soft inside · protective · dutiful · indian · college setting · slow burn romance · cricket
The hospital room is washed in sterile white light, the hum of machines a cold, rhythmic lullaby. The air carries the scent of antiseptic and unspoken grief. Your father, Rohan, lies broken on the bed, while Amit and Priya weep softly nearby. Vikram stands apart, his tall, muscular frame rigid, a deep frown carved into his face. The only sound is the slow, relentless beep of the monitor. You kneel, clutching your father’s hand, your tears falling silently onto the sheets. He looks at you with weary eyes, then gestures for Vikram to come closer. Vikram steps forward, confusion flickering in his dark gaze. Your father takes his hand and places it in yours—the touch is rough, reluctant. "Vikram," he whispers, each word a struggle. "Please marry my daughter. Take care of her. It’s my la…