Family of Shaows

[sexonmind]

Chapter 7: Shadows in play.
Sai sat on his cot, gripping his phone tightly, replaying Yedukondalu’s shocking revelations in his mind. He decided he needed to share this with Rani. Dialing her number, he waited as the phone rang twice before she picked up.
"Hello, Sai! What’s the matter? You sound tense," Rani said, her usual cheerful tone evident.
Sai tried to sound composed. "Nothing much, Rani. Just thought I’d check in. How’s everything at home?"
"Busy, as always," Rani replied. "Madam’s gym routine is in full swing, and Babu—well, you know him. He’s got his hands full with college and all."
After a brief pause, Sai said cautiously, "Rani, I wanted to talk to you about Aruna’s affair."
At the mention of Aruna, Rani’s tone shifted slightly, sounding almost knowing. "Oh, that? I already know. Babu told me everything."
Sai froze. His heartbeat quickened, and his grip on the phone tightened. "He told you? So he knows too" he asked, trying to mask his shock.
"Of course. It wasn’t easy for him, you know. But he accepted it," Rani said, her voice calm but serious.
Sai’s mind raced. So, they already know about Yedukondalu? He had expected to break the news to Rani, but this changed everything.
"Hello? Sai? Are you there?" Rani asked, her voice tinged with concern.
"I… uh… yeah," Sai stammered. "I didn’t realize Babu had already talked to you."
Rani sighed. "Yes, he did. Look, Sai, it’s not easy to handle these things, but I’m doing my best. Don’t worry about it."
Sai swallowed hard, feeling overwhelmed. "Alright. I’ll call you later, Rani," he mumbled and ended the call abruptly.
Placing the phone down, Sai stared at the wall, his thoughts swirling. So Babu and Rani already knew about Aruna and Yedukondalu? He felt relieved but also unsettled. What exactly had Babu told Rani? Did they know everything, or were there details Yedukondalu hadn’t shared with them?
Sai exhaled deeply, feeling like he had stepped into a story that was far bigger—and darker—than he’d anticipated.
Purushotham’s visits to Sunandha’s house had become a regular affair, filling the quarters with lighthearted conversations and shared memories. With his renewed camaraderie with Babu, the air was more relaxed than it had been in months. However, Aruna couldn’t shake the unease building within her. She noticed subtle shifts in the dynamics—Purushotham’s relaxed demeanor around Babu, their occasional shared laughter. Something was amiss.
One evening, unable to contain her frustrations, Aruna called Babu. He picked up after a few rings, his voice casual but curious. "Hello, Akka. Everything okay?"
Aruna wasted no time. "Babu, what’s going on? What’s the deal with Purushotham?"
Babu, caught off guard, leaned back on his bed, his tone turning serious. "What do you mean, Akka? Why are you bringing this up now?"
"Don’t act like you don’t know," Aruna snapped. "You said you’d talk to him about marriage, but nothing’s happening. He visits the house all the time, and it’s like… like none of this even matters to him. What are you doing, Babu?"
Babu sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Akka, you need to relax. Why are you rushing this? Things like this take time."
"Rushing?" Aruna’s voice rose. "It’s been weeks, Babu. Weeks! You promised me you’d handle it. Instead, all I see is you and him acting like best friends, laughing and joking around. What am I supposed to think?"
Babu took a deep breath, his voice steady but firm. "Listen, Akka. I’ve been thinking about this, and honestly, I think we need to face the truth. That night…" He hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "That night was a mistake. Both of you were part of that mistake. Maybe it’s time you accept that too."
There was silence on the line before Aruna’s voice came through, trembling with anger and disbelief. "A mistake? You think that’s what that was?"
"I’m saying," Babu replied, his tone calm but unyielding, "Akka, you need to move on. What happened shouldn’t define your life—or his. It’s not fair to Purushotham, and it’s not fair to you either."
Aruna’s breathing quickened, and for a moment, Babu thought she might yell. Instead, she hissed, "You’ve changed, Babu," before cutting the call.
Babu stared at his phone screen, the silence in his dorm room deafening. He let out a long breath, knowing his words had hurt her. But deep down, he believed they needed to be said. The mistakes of the past couldn’t dictate their future.
That evening, Purushotham arrived at the quarters as usual, his easygoing presence filling the space with warmth. As he stepped into the living room, Sunandha, dressed in a simple yet elegant saree, greeted him with a smile.
Purushotham paused for a moment, looking at her appreciatively. "Sunandha Madam, you’re looking astonishing today," he said with a playful grin.
Sunandha raised an eyebrow, half amused and half chiding. "Is that how you talk to a woman who is like a mother to you?"
Purushotham chuckled, his response quick and teasing. "If my mother looked like you, I would say the same to her!"
The room erupted in laughter, breaking any lingering tension. Sunandha shook her head at his antics but couldn’t hide the smile on her face.
"Not only do I look better," Sunandha said, once the laughter subsided, "but I feel healthier too. There’s been such an improvement in my energy and my routine."
She glanced toward Aruna, who was sitting nearby, scrolling through her phone. "All thanks to Aruna," Sunandha continued. "She’s been constantly supporting me with my diet, my gym schedule—everything. In fact, sometimes she even accompanies me to the gym."
Purushotham turned to Aruna with an approving nod. "That’s great, Aruna. Madam’s glowing health is proof of your dedication."
Aruna looked up and offered a polite smile, her expression calm and composed. "It’s nothing, really. Just happy to see her doing well."
The conversation flowed smoothly after that, the room alive with shared stories and casual banter. Yet, as Purushotham settled into his usual seat, Aruna’s sharp gaze flickered toward him, observing the ease with which he interacted with Sunandha. Something still didn’t sit right with her.
As the evening wore on, Sunandha stood up with a smile. “Excuse me for a moment, I’ll go freshen up and change,” she said, leaving the living room.
The moment she disappeared, Aruna’s demeanor shifted. Her sharp gaze softened, and she turned toward Purushotham with a warm, almost friendly tone. “So, Purush, how are you doing these days? You seem much more at ease.”
Purushotham, leaning back in his chair, smiled faintly. “I’m doing fine, Aruna. And you?”
“I’m good,” Aruna replied, tilting her head slightly. “It’s nice to see everything settling down. Especially with Babu,” she added meaningfully. “He’s really changed, hasn’t he?”

Purushotham nodded in agreement. “You’re right. It’s like he’s grown into himself—more confident and understanding. I’m glad he’s no longer pushing this whole marriage talk on us.”
Aruna smiled faintly, her eyes sharp despite the friendliness of her tone. “Yes, it’s a relief.”
At that moment, Sunandha returned to the room, now in a more relaxed outfit. She glanced at both of them curiously, catching the tail end of their conversation. “Whose marriage are you two talking about?” she asked with an innocent but intrigued smile.
Aruna, caught off guard for a split second, quickly composed herself. “Oh, nothing serious, Amma. Purush was just talking about this new movie. It’s about family ties and the sacred bond of marriage. He was asking if I’d seen it,” she said smoothly, her voice light.
Purushotham, quick to catch the cue, chimed in with a grin. “Exactly! I heard it’s a great film. I thought Aruna might have watched it already.”
Sunandha raised an eyebrow, amused. “Oh, I see. Well, if it’s that good, why don’t you go watch it together?”
Purushotham looked slightly surprised but recovered quickly. “You don’t mind, Sunandha Madam?”
“Why would I mind?” Sunandha replied with a casual wave of her hand. “I can’t come along—I’ve got other things to take care of. But you can take Aruna if you’d like.”
Purushotham glanced at Aruna. “What do you say? Want to go tomorrow evening?”
Aruna, masking any hesitation, offered a polite smile. “Sure, that sounds nice.”
“Done then,” Purushotham said cheerfully. “I’ll come by in the evening to pick you up.”
Sunandha smiled approvingly. “Good, you two enjoy. It’s important to get out and have some fun.”
As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, Aruna’s expression remained composed, but beneath her calm exterior, her thoughts raced.
Earlier that evening, Babu leaned back on his hostel bed, his phone pressed to his ear as Rani’s cheerful voice echoed on the other end.
“Babu, you won’t believe this. Purushotham is taking Aruna to a movie tomorrow.”
Babu frowned slightly but quickly let it go, his tone casual. “Rani, I told you, don’t bother keeping an eye on them anymore. You don’t need to stress yourself over Aruna. Just ignore it.”
Rani paused, surprised. “Are you sure, Babu? I mean… it’s strange, isn’t it?”
Babu’s voice softened. “It doesn’t matter anymore, Rani. Leave it alone. You don’t have to be part of this mess. Now, tell me about your day.”
Rani smiled, settling into a more relaxed tone. “My day? Well, Ashok is still acting weird…”
Their conversation drifted to other topics—lighthearted, teasing banter that made the minutes melt into hours.
The next evening, Purushotham arrived at Sunandha’s quarters promptly, his clean shirt freshly pressed and his demeanor cheerful but composed. He knocked on the door and waited, casually running his hand through his hair.
Inside, Aruna stood before the mirror in her room, giving herself one final look. She had chosen her outfit with precision: a light blue lacey sari that clung to her figure like it was made just for her. The delicate material shimmered faintly under the light, the intricate lacework blending seamlessly with her soft, honey-toned skin. The pleats of the sari were expertly tucked at her waist, emphasizing her narrow midriff, while the pallu dbangd just low enough to hint at the graceful curve of her hips.
Her blouse was another masterpiece—sleeveless and perfectly cut to show off her toned shoulders and elegant collarbones. The neckline dipped tastefully but daringly enough to draw attention. A thin gold chain sat lightly around her neck, glinting against her skin.
Aruna’s makeup was equally flawless—soft kohl lined her large, expressive eyes, drawing attention to their captivating depth. A hint of shimmer rested on her eyelids, and her lips were painted a delicate, rosy pink, full and inviting. Her cheeks had the faintest touch of blush, giving her a natural glow. Her hair cascaded down in soft waves, parted to one side, brushing against her bare shoulder as she moved.
As she slipped on a pair of dainty silver earrings, Aruna smiled at her reflection. She looked nothing short of breathtaking—a vision of charm, grace, and undeniable allure. Her deliberate effort wasn’t lost on her; tonight, she intended to leave an impression.
“Aruna, Purushotham’s here!” Sunandha called from the living room.
Aruna picked up a small, elegant clutch and took a deep breath. Her expression shifted into one of calm confidence as she walked out of the room, her sari rustling softly with each step.
When she entered the living room, Purushotham was mid-conversation with Sunandha, but the moment he turned and saw her, the words caught in his throat. His casual smile faltered as his eyes widened, unprepared for the sight before him.
Aruna looked straight at him, her lips curling into a small, knowing smile. “Shall we go?” she asked smoothly, her voice carrying a playful softness.
Sunandha, oblivious to the tension, beamed approvingly. “You look lovely, Aruna. Have a good time, both of you.”
Purushotham finally managed to speak, though his voice sounded a little strained. “Y-yes… let’s go.”
As Aruna adjusted her sari one last time, she stepped into the living room, her expression soft and composed. Purushotham stood near the door, pretending to be engrossed in his phone, though his occasional glances at her revealed his quiet awe.
Before they could leave, Aruna turned to Sunandha, who was settling into her chair with a cup of green tea. “Amma,” Aruna said sweetly, her tone carrying an almost childlike innocence, “can I eat outside tonight? Purushotham said we’ll grab something before the movie.”
Sunandha looked up, smiling warmly at Aruna. Her affection for the girl was clear in her gentle gaze. “Of course, kanna. Why are you even asking?”
She set her tea aside, stood up, and walked over to her purse. Pulling out her debit card, she placed it into Aruna’s hand with a trusting smile. “Here, take this. Have a nice dinner before the movie. It’s fine even if you’re late—just enjoy yourselves.”
Aruna widened her eyes slightly, her face glowing with gratitude. “Thank you, amma. I’ll take care of it.”
Sunandha laughed softly. “No need to thank me, dear. You’re so innocent and pure, always thinking of others. I’m glad you’re stepping out and enjoying yourself for once.”
Purushotham, who had been quietly observing the exchange, glanced at Aruna, his expression unreadable. Aruna smiled at Sunandha, her voice tender and sweet. “I’ll make sure Purushotham eats well too.”
Sunandha waved them off cheerfully. “Good, good. Now go. Have fun, both of you!”
As Aruna led the way outside, her smile shifted ever so slightly—a small, knowing curve that Purushotham caught as they walked toward his car. He couldn’t help but wonder if he had underestimated her once again.
Continued in part 2