Aami had always imagined a perfect train journey - settling into a cozy side-lower berth in the two-tier AC compartment, sipping coffee as the landscapes unfolded beyond the panoramic glass windows. It was a dream she had nurtured for years.
But reality had other plans.
Seat No. 6, A1 Coach - a side upper berth. She sighed in frustration as she stepped into the compartment, dragging her suitcase along. Why does fate always play cruel jokes? she muttered under her breath. Determined not to accept defeat, she parked herself on the side-lower berth, waiting for its rightful owner to arrive. Maybe they'd be kind enough to swap.
The train shuddered and lurched forward from Ernakulam Junction (ERS), beginning its long journey toward Delhi. The hum of conversations filled the compartment, the occasional vendor shouting from the platform as passengers adjusted their luggage. Aami adjusted her traditional kasavu skirt, her thoughts already strategizing. If the lower berth owner refuses, what's my Plan B?
Her thoughts were interrupted as the train slowed at Aluva (AWY). A tall, well-built man entered the compartment, a duffel bag slung over his shoulder. Dressed in a fitted T-shirt and jeans, he exuded an effortless confidence. His sharp jawline, neatly trimmed stubble, and piercing eyes gave him an air of authority. Aami's eyes followed him as he checked his ticket, and her heart sank when he threw his bag onto the very seat she had claimed.
Damn. He's the one.
She put on her best polite smile. "Hi," she said, testing the waters.
He glanced at her, nodded briefly, and took his seat. "Aarush."
"Aami."
A moment of silence stretched between them before she decided to go for it. "I was wondering… would you mind swapping berths? This skirt makes it difficult to climb up."
Aarush leaned back, crossing his arms. "You could always change into something more comfortable."
Aami blinked, slightly taken aback. "I… don't have anything else."
Without another word, Aarush bent down, pulled his duffel bag onto the upper berth, unzipped it, and rummaged through it. For a second, she thought he was shifting, but instead, he pulled out a neatly folded ash-coloured T-shirt and a trouser. He held them out to her. "Here. Bought them new. Should fit you."
She stared at him, unsure whether to be offended or amused. "You carry spare clothes for strangers?"
He smirked. "Not exactly. But you need it more than I do right now."
Her inner self debated - If I refuse, I lose my chance. If I accept, I might have a way in.
After a long pause, she snatched the clothes. "Fine. But don't expect a thank you."
Aarush chuckled as she disappeared into the washroom. When she returned, the oversized T-shirt draped over her, and the trousers - though slightly loose - were far more practical than her kasavu skirt. Aarush glanced up and gave a small approving nod. "Better."
She folded her arms. "Happy?"
"More than you know."
There was something different in his voice now, something softer. As she settled back on the berth, she caught him stealing a glance at her, his eyes lingering for just a second too long. A warmth crept into her cheeks, but she quickly turned her face away, pretending to adjust her bag.
The train's rhythm matched the pounding of her heart. She could still feel the weight of his gaze on her, the air between them charged with something unspoken.
Before she could dwell on it, the TTE arrived for ticket verification. His gaze shifted between them, amusement flickering in his eyes. "You two became friends fast."
Aarush, without missing a beat, leaned back and smirked. "She's my wife. She planned her journey last minute, and ended up with different PNRs."
Aami nearly choked. She turned to glare at him, but his expression remained cool and casual. The TTE simply nodded and moved on.
Aami exhaled sharply. "You could have at least asked me before making up stories."
Aarush leaned closer, lowering his voice. "Did it hurt you? Otherwise, he would have a peeping eye always"
She had no response.
As the train continued its journey, Aami found herself stealing glances at Aarush, her curiosity growing. He was infuriating, arrogant, and yet… undeniably intriguing. She wasn't sure if it was the thrill of the journey or the way his lips curved when he smirked, but something about him made her heart beat faster.
And somehow, she knew - this journey was going to be unlike any other.