Whispers of desires

Author -;

Prof. Dr.Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya

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Abstract of the story

In the heart of a upper Indian neighborhood, Reba, a 39-year-old housewife, grapples with her unfulfilled desires as she cares for her ailing husband, Abani, with 4th stage of lung cancer treated with costly monoclonal antibodies against ALK oncogene after removing the involved lung . Amidst the chaos of illness and financial strain, her world spirals when her 25, years old nephew, Rishabh( Rik), an IIT kanpur passed out electronic telecommunication engineer steps in to support her. Torn between a budding physical and mental attraction to Reba and his commitment to his girlfriend, Moushumi, another alumni of the same institute Rishabh finds himself ensnared in a web of forbidden longing. A pivotal wedding night ignites an unexpected physical intimacy, sending shockwaves through their family dynamics. As tragedy strikes with Abani's death, both Reba and Rishabh face the emotional aftermath, forcing them to confront the complexities of sex , love, guilt, and familial loyalty and family politics. In a poignant exploration of desires and societal expectations, they must decide whether to embrace their passions or safeguard their family ties, ultimately seeking a path toward healing and acceptance.

Chapter 1 to chapter 5

Chapter 1 - The Weight of Responsibilities

Reba let out a weary sigh as she folded the last of the laundry, her fingers gently smoothing the creases in Abani's favorite shirt. The once-vibrant fabric now hung limply, a stark contrast to the man who had once filled it with life and laughter. Reba's heart ached as she thought of her husband, his once robust frame now frail and diminished by the relentless grip of lung cancer.

Glancing at the clock, she hurried to the kitchen, her mind racing through the day's tasks. Lunch had to be prepared, the children needed to be picked up from school, and the endless cycle of doctor's appointments, orders for medicine from the USA and hospital visits had to be coordinated. Reba's days had become a whirlwind of responsibilities, leaving very little time for herself own.

As she chopped the vegetables, her thoughts drifted to the days when she and Abani had been young, their lives filled with dreams and possibilities. They had married straight out of college, a love marriage they had, their love blossoming like a delicate flower. Now, nearly two decades later, that bloom has wilted, replaced by the harsh realities of illness and financial strain and threat for targeted biologics medicine that cost too much ,doctors visits and costly investigations .

Reba's hands trembled slightly as she added the spices to the simmering pot. The weight of it all – the worry, the exhaustion, the ever-present fear of losing Abani – threatened to overwhelm her. She paused, taking a deep breath, and willed herself to focus on the task at hand.

"Maa, when will lunch be ready?" a small voice piped up from the doorway.

Reba turned to see her daughter, Ayadha, standing there, her school uniform slightly rumpled, her eyes filled with a mixture of curiosity and concern.she is 13 only in class six

"Just a few more minutes, beta," Reba replied, mustering a warm smile. She reached out and gently smoothed ayadha's hair, an instinctive gesture of maternal affection. "How was your day at school?"

Ayadha's face lit up as she launched into an animated recounting of her day's events, from the math test she had aced to the new friend she had made on the playground. Reba listened attentively, her heart swelling with pride at her daughter's resilience and enthusiasm.

As Ayadha's story came to an end, the front door opened, and Reba's son, Arjun, bounded into the kitchen, his backpack slung haphazardly over one shoulder.

"Maa, I'm home!" he announced, his voice brimming with energy. "Can I have a snack before lunch?"

Reba chuckled and nodded, reaching into the pantry for a small bag of chips. "Don't spoil your appetite, beta," she cautioned, handing him the snack.

Arjun grinned and scurried off to his room, leaving Reba alone with her thoughts once more. She allowed her gaze to drift to the family photographs adorning the kitchen walls, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips. In those frozen moments, Abani's vibrant presence was a stark contrast to his current frail state.

A knock at the door interrupted Reba's reverie, and she hurried to answer it, wiping her hands on her apron. When she opened the door, she found her nephew, Rishabh( pet name,Rik), standing on the doorstep, his warm smile instantly putting her at ease.

"Rik! What a pleasant surprise," Reba exclaimed, ushering him inside. "Come in, come in. I was just about to call you."

Rishabh stepped into the familiar foyer, his gaze sweeping over the cozy, well-lived-in space. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything, dear Mejo Mami," he said, his voice tinged with concern.

Reba waved a dismissive hand. "Not at all, beta. I'm always happy to see you." She gestured towards the kitchen. "I was just about to serve lunch. Would you like to join us?"

Rishabh's eyes lit up, and Reba couldn't help but notice the way his face seemed to brighten whenever he was in her presence. "I'd love to, Mejo Mami," he replied, following her into the kitchen.

As Reba began to dish out the steaming plates of rice and curry, she couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort in Rishabh's company. He had always been a constant presence in her life, a steady source of support and companionship, even in the darkest of times. Reba's heart swelled with gratitude, but a small part of her also felt a flicker of something else – a forbidden longing that she dared not acknowledge, to the world, even to herself.

Shaking off the thought, Reba turned her attention to her children, engaging them in lively conversation, her maternal instincts taking over. Rishabh joined in effortlessly, his charm and wit eliciting laughter from the family.

As the meal drew to a close, Reba noticed the slight furrow in Rishabh's brow, a telltale sign that he had something on his mind. "Is everything alright, beta?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Rishabh hesitated for a moment, his gaze meeting Reba's. "Mejo Mami, I... I wanted to talk to you about something," he began, his words laced with a hint of nervousness.

Reba felt her heart skip a beat, a familiar flutter of anticipation stirring within her. "Of course, Rik. What is it?"

The young man took a deep breath, his eyes filled with a mixture of apprehension and resolve. "It's about mejo mamu... Your husband, I want to help with the medical expenses and take responsibility for yours. It is directed by mumm. I know things have been difficult, and I want to do whatever I can to ease the burden on you and the family."I earn a very good salary. 

Reba felt a surge of gratitude, but also a twinge of guilt. She had been so consumed by the daily grind that she had neglected to ask for help, unwilling to impose on her family. "Rik, beta, that's so kind of you," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "But I couldn't possibly ask you to do that. You have your own life, mousumi ,your own responsibilities."

Rishabh reached across the table and gently placed his hand over Reba's. "Mejo Mami, you're not asking. I want to do this. Please, let me help."

Reba felt the warmth of his touch, the familiar comfort it brought, and she found herself unable to resist. "Alright, beta," she relented, her eyes brimming with tears. "Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

As Rishabh's face lit up with a relieved smile, Reba felt a flicker of hope amidst the darkness that had enveloped her life. Perhaps, with his support, she could find the strength to navigate the challenges that lay ahead. But deep within her, a seed of desire had been planted, one that she knew she must keep carefully hidden, lest it threaten to unravel the delicate fabric of her family.

           Chapter 2: 

            Hidden Longings

Rishabh stared out his new car window, his mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The familiar streets of his childhood neighborhood blurred as he grappled with the weight of his growing feelings for Reba-,her own maternal aunt Just a few hours ago, he had been sitting across the table from his loving girlfriend, Moushumi, an architect engineer from same IIT Kanpur now an employee of a private company ,discussing their upcoming wedding plans. Yet, all he could think about was the tender moment he had shared with his maternal aunt the night before। Reba, his beloved mejo mami, had always held a special place in his heart. From the time he was a child, Reba had showered him with affection and support, offering a sanctuary from the complexities of his own home. Now, as he had grown into a young man, his feelings had evolved into something more profound – a forbidden longing that he struggled to reconcile for longtime.

Rishabh's hands tightened on the steering wheel as he recalled the moment he had offered to help with mejo mamu's medical expenses and family expenses.The gratitude in Reba's eyes had been palpable, and he had felt a surge of protectiveness towards her. But beneath the surface, there was an undercurrent of something more – a spark that had ignited a fire within him, a desire that he knew he must not entertain

.Back at Reba's home, that evening had taken on a somber tone. Abani's condition had worsened, and the weight of his illness hung heavy in the air. Reba moved through the house with a quiet determination, tending to her husband's needs and ensuring her children were cared for.

As she prepared a light dinner, Reba's mind drifted to the brief moment of solace she had felt during Rik's visit. His offer to help with the medical expenses had been a lifeline, a glimmer of hope in the midst of her overwhelming responsibilities. But it was the way he had looked at her, with a tenderness that went beyond the bounds of a nephew and aunt, that had stirred something deep within her.

Reba shook her head, scolding herself for even entertaining such forbi thoughts. Rishabh was her nephew, and she was a married woman – a woman who had taken vows to love and cherish her husband and children, Abani, until death do them part. Yet, the memory of Rik's touch, the warmth of his embrace, lingered like a forbidden temptation.why ?

As the car pulled up to Reba's modest home, Rishabh took a deep breath, steeling himself for the encounter. He knew he needed to keep his composure, to not let his affection for Reba seep through the cracks of his carefully constructed facade. With a polite smile, he stepped out of the vehicle and made his way to the front door, his heart pounding in his chest.Reba greeted him, her eyes were shining with a mixture of relief and something more, something that sent a shiver down Rishabh's spine. "Thank you for coming, Rik," she said, her voice soft and warm. "Yours mama's condition has taken a turn for the worse, and I could use your help."Rishabh nodded, pushing down the surge of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. "Of course, mejo mami I'm here for you and my uncle's family, whatever you need." He followed her inside, his gaze lingering on the gentle sway of her circular wide gluteal and three soft fat crises on her waist, the way her hair fell across her face.In the living room, Abani lay propped up on the couch, his breathing now labored and his face etched with pain. Rishabh's heart ached at the sight of his maternal uncle, a man he had always admired for his strength, knowledge and resilience. Reba hovered nearby, her hands wringing anxiously, her eyes filled with worry."The doctor said he needs more intensive care and hospitalization," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "But the hospital bills will be piling up, and I don't know how we'll afford it." Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, and Rishabh instinctively reached out to squeeze her hand, offering what comfort he could.The touch sent a spark of electricity wave through Reba, and she found herself leaning into his warmth, seeking the solace she so desperately craved. Rishabh's breath caught in his throat, and for a moment, they were lost in each other's gaze, the world around them fading away.The sound of Abani's labored breathing shattered the spell, reminding them of the gravity of the situation. Reba reluctantly pulled away, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of guilt and desire.

"I'm sorry, Rik," she said, her voice trembling. "I shouldn't have—""  it's okay," Rishabh interrupted, his voice low and soothing. "I'm here for you, no matter what. We'll figure this out, together." Reba nodded, grateful for his understanding, even as her heart ached with the knowledge that their connection is forbidden, their feelings something they could never truly act upon.

As the evening wore on, Reba found herself longing for Rik's presence once more. His visits, though brief, had become a source of comfort and respite in the midst of her daily struggles. She knew it was wrong to crave his attention, to yearn for the warmth of his touch, but the temptation was becoming increasingly difficult to resist.

Lying in bed, Reba stared up at the ceiling, her mind racing with a thousand thoughts. The weight of her responsibilities as a dedicated wife and mother, combined with the growing hidden desire for something more, threatened to consume her. She knew she needed to find a way to reconcile these conflicting emotions, but the path forward was shrouded in uncertainty and she will be alone mentally and physically by few months more ahead in this world 

Over the next few days, Rishabh became a constant presence in the household, offering her both financial and emotional support for his maternal uncle. He accompanied Reba to the hospital, holding her hand as they listened to the doctors' grim prognosis. He helped with the children, ensuring they were fed and cared for by him , allowing Reba to focus on Abani's needs.Through it all, the unspoken tension between Reba and Rishabh grew, a palpable energy that crackled in the air whenever they were together. They stole glances, their fingers brushing against each other in fleeting moments, their eyes conveying a silent language of longing and guilt.

One evening, as Reba prepared a simple meal for the family, Rishabh approached her, his expression serious.

" I need to talk to you,mami" he said, his voice low and urgent. Reba felt her heart skip a beat, her hands trembling as she set down the utensils. "What is it, Rik?"He took a deep breath, his gaze locked with hers. "I can't stop thinking about you. About us. I know it's very wrong, I know it's forbidden, and a sin desire but I can't ignore these feelings anymore."Reba's eyes widened, her pulse quickening. "Rik , what are you talking about dear beta . Your mejomamu is on your deathbed . He is still living on earth . Just think once about our real relationship,this society ,your parents, our age difference! we can't do it Rik .I understand your situation—"

"Please ," he interrupted, his hand reaching out to gently cup her cheek. "I know all these risks, but I need you to know how I feel now about you. I need you to know that you're not alone in this world." Reba's resolve crumbled as she leaned into his touch, her own hand coming up to cover his. "Rik I—" Her words were cut off by the sound of a door opening, and they quickly pulled them apart, their hearts racing.

Pratima Devi, Rishabh's mother, entered the kitchen, her sharp eyes scrutinizing the scene before her. "Rik, what are you doing here?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

Rishabh straightened, his expression carefully neutral. "Nothing, Maa I was just checking on her, making sure she has everything she needs."

Pratima's gaze narrowed, and Reba felt a chill running down her spine. "I see," the older woman said, her tone laced with a subtle warning. "Well, don't forget that Moushumi is waiting for you. You shouldn't keep her waiting."

Rishabh nodded, his jaw tightening. "Of course, Maa I'll be right there."

As Pratima left the kitchen, Reba and Rishabh exchanged a loaded glance, their hearts heavy with the weight of their unspoken desires and the looming threat of discovery.

            Chapter 3 

           moushumi 

As Rishav pulled into the drive-in of his own apartment, Rishabh let out a heavy sigh. Moushumi, his long-term girlfriend, would be wife was waiting for him, her bright smile a stark contrast to the turmoil he felt inside. He knew he needed to be honest with her, to confess the complicated emotions that had taken root in his heart, but the thought of hurting her filled him with dread.

Stepping into the apartment, Rishabh was greeted by Moushumi's warm embrace. "You're home late as usual," she said, her voice laced with concern. "Is everything alright?"

Rishabh hesitated, his gaze momentarily drifting towards the framed photograph of the two of them on the wall. "I... I've been thinking a lot about my uncle's family," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Aunt Reba is going through a difficult time, and I can't stop worrying about her you know mausumi uncle has lung cancer and he is having biologic monoclonal antibodies moreover hospital costs doctors visit costly investigations she is getting puzzled where from all these money will come ."

Moushumi's brow furrowed, and she gently guided Rishabh to the couch. "I know how much you care about your own family," she said, her hand resting on his arm. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Rishabh's heart ached with the weight of his secret. He wanted to confide in Moushumi, to share the turmoil that was consuming him, but the fear of losing her held him back. Instead, he forced a smile and squeezed her hand. "I appreciate your concern, but I think this is something I need to handle on my own for now. I don't want to burden you with my family's problems."

Moushumi nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. "I'm here for you, Rishabh, whenever you're ready to talk. You know that, right?"

"I do," Rishabh replied, his voice barely above a whisper. As Moushumi settled beside him, he couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. The woman he loved was sitting beside him, and yet his thoughts were consumed by another – a woman he knew he could never truly have.

Chapter 4: 

                    The Weight of Illness

Reba's eyes fluttered open, and she was greeted by the familiar sight of her dimly lit bedroom. The soft hum of the air conditioner and the muted beeping of medical equipment were the only sounds that pierced the stillness. She turned her head to the side, her gaze settling on Abani's frail form, his chest rising and falling with labored breaths. He developed pleural effusion Now

It had been three weeks since Abani's condition had taken a turn for the worse, and the weight of his illness had settled heavily upon their household. Reba had become a constant presence at the hospital, juggling her duties as a wife and mother with the demands of caregiving. The financial strain of mounting medical bills had only added to the burden she carried, leaving her feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.

Quietly, Reba slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb Abani's fitful sleep. She made her way to the kitchen, where she prepared a simple breakfast, her movements methodical and practiced. As she sipped her tea, her gaze drifted to the living room, where her two children, Ayadha and Arjun, were huddled together, their faces etched with worry.Reba's heart ached at the sight. She had tried to shield them from the full extent of Abani's illness, but the tension and uncertainty that permeated their home were undeniable. Aadhya, at just 13 years old, had taken on more responsibilities, helping with chores and caring for her younger brother. Arjun, only 8, clung to his mother, his eyes brimming with questions he was too afraid to ask.

Reba made her way to the living room, settling beside her children. She pulled them close, her arms enveloping them in a comforting embrace. "How are you both feeling this morning?" she asked, her voice soft and gentle.

Aadhya's eyes met her mother's, and Reba saw the weight of worry that had settled there. "I'm worried about Dad," the young girl admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "The doctors said he's not getting better."

Reba nodded, her heart heavy. "I know, my dear. But your father is strong, and he's fighting. We just need to be there for him, and for each other." Arjun snuggled closer to his mother, his small hand clutching the fabric of her shirt. "Will Dad be okay?" he asked, his voice trembling.

Reba hesitated, her own uncertainty threatening to spill over. "I don't know, Arjun," she admitted, her voice wavering. "But we'll do everything we can to help him. And no matter what, we'll be here for each other, always."

The children fell silent, their fears reflected in the tense lines of their bodies. Reba held them close, drawing strength from their presence, even as her own heart threatened to break.

A soft knock at the door interrupted the moment, and Reba gently disentangled herself from her children. "That must be Rik ,her nephew" she said, forcing a small smile. "He's coming to check on your father and help out around the house."

As Reba opened the door, Rishabh's familiar face came into view, his expression a mix of concern and affection. "Good morning,mejo mami" he said, his voice low and gentle. "How is mamu doing?"

Reba sighed, her shoulders sagging slightly. "Not so well, I'm afraid. The doctors said his condition is deteriorating, and the treatments don't seem to be working as well as they'd hoped. We can start homeopathy next if we like and palliative too"

Rishabh's brow furrowed, and he placed a comforting hand on Reba's arm. "I'm so sorry to hear that. Please, let me know if there's anything I can do to help – with mamu or with the children."

Reba nodded gratefully, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Thank you, Rik. Your support means more to us than you know ."

As Rishabh stepped into the house, Aadhya and Arjun rushed to greet him, their faces lighting up with a glimmer of hope. Rishabh embraced them warmly, his gentle demeanor soothing their worries.

Reba watched the scene unfold, her heart swelling with a mixture of gratitude and something else – a feeling she had tried to hide always ,to suppress, but one that had taken root in the depths of her soul. Rishabh's presence, his unwavering kindness, and his steadfast support had become a lifeline for her in these trying times, and she found herself drawn to him in ways she dared not to acknowledge.

Shaking off her thoughts, Reba led Rishabh to Abani's room, where the older man lay, his eyes closed, his breathing labored. Rishabh approached the bed, his expression somber, and gently placed a hand on Abani's forehead, checking his temperature.

"His fever is still high," Rishabh murmured, his brow furrowed in concern. "We need to get the doctor to come and examine him again."

Reba nodded, her hands trembling slightly. "I'll make the call right away. Thank you, Rik, for being here at crisis."

Rishabh turned to Reba, his eyes filled with empathy. "Of course, mejo mami. I'll do whatever I can to help you and your family during this difficult time."

As Reba made the call to the doctor, Rishabh remained by Abani's side, his presence a steady anchor in the midst of the family's turmoil. Reba watched him from the doorway, her heart swelling with a bittersweet longing. She knew she should push these feelings away, that they were wrong for her at least at this age and could only lead her more pain, but the weight of her responsibilities and the ache of her own unfulfilled desires made it increasingly difficult to ignore the pull she felt towards her own nephew.

The sound of the doorbell interrupted Reba's thoughts, and she hurried to answer it, her mind racing with the implications of Abani's worsening condition. As she opened the door, she was greeted by the stern face of her mother-in-law, Papiya Devi, who swept into the house with an air of authority.

"I heard about Abani's condition," Papiya Devi announced, her voice laced with concern. "I've come to see what I can do to help and stay beside him ."

Reba's heart sank, knowing that her mother-in-law's presence would only add to the already palpable tension and quarl in the household. She could never tolerate her since her marriage nor Reba did ,as Papiya Devi's gaze swept over the room, Reba knew she had no choice but to welcome her in, for the sake of Abani and their family and more over she has every right to stay in death bed of her 2nd son. In laws house Reba and Abani's marriage life was never accepted and for last two decades Reba was abandoned there

                        Chapter 5:

                    A Night of Unraveling 

Reba and her two children went to a nearby wedding house of close relatives from her side. This invitation was unavoidable .Abani was under care of her mother for that night.every body there feeling and grieved for Abani's final diagnosis,fate and discussed how Reba to manage her family after if abani passes away .The discussion was bothering Reba

Her children were playing with their same age on the terrace. Rishav came directly from the office in the evening . Reba changed her dress in evening, she brought with her delicate fabric red benarasi saree with embroidery and matching blouse and put facial makeup ,lipstick, vermillion ornaments 

She was looking marvellous even at 39

The warm glow of twinkling lights and the melodic beats of traditional music filled the air . It was a night of joyous celebration, a momentary respite from the heaviness that had enveloped their lives in recent months.The soft glow of twinkling lights illuminated the grand wedding hall, casting a warm, festive atmosphere over the gathering. Reba stood at the edge of the crowd, her gaze from little distance fixed on her children playing and on Rik, as he moved gracefully through the throngs of guests, offering wellcome and exchanging pleasantries. She couldn't help but admire the way he carried himself, his confidence and charm 

Reba smoothed the delicate red fabric of her Banarasi sari, her fingers tracing the intricate embroidery that adorned the vibrant crimson material. Though her heart carried the weight of Abani's deteriorating health, she was determined to put on a brave face for her children and everyone present there 

As they made their way through the crowded hall, Reba's gaze was drawn to Rik , who greeted guests with a warm smile, his eyes instantly locking with hers. Reba felt a familiar flutter in her chest, a sensation she had tried to suppress but could no longer ignore.

Mejo Mami, I'm so glad you could make it," Rishabh said, his voice laced with genuine affection. He gently took Reba's hand, the brief touch sending a shiver down her spine.

"We wouldn't have missed it for the world," Reba replied, her tone soft and measured, betraying none of the emotions swirling within her.

"Rik ," Reba replied, her own tone tinged with a hint of nervousness. "The wedding is beautiful. But You must be so proud of Moushumi. She didn't come with you. I am expecting to meet her here. you could bring her.I didn't meet her for a long one year was that not? "

 "Yes, it's a special occasion. I told her. But it is her office. But I must admit, mejo mami I'm finding it hard to focus on anything other than you. You look so gracious in red fabric banarasi sari believe me just beautiful I must admit।  You looking 25 now" he whispered 

As Rishabh made his way towards her, Reba felt her heart flutter. She knew that she should maintain a respectable distance, but yet the inner pull she felt towards him was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore by her . When he finally reached her, his eyes met hers, and for a moment, the world seemed to slowed down.

As the family mingled with the other guests, Reba found herself gravitating towards Rik, their conversations flowing with an ease that belied the underlying tension. Rishabh, ever the attentive companion, made sure Reba and the children were well-fed and well entertained, his attentiveness a balm to Reba's weary soul.

The music swelled, and soon the dance floor was filled with vibrant, swaying bodies. Aadhya and Arjun eagerly joined the celebration, their laughter and joy a much-needed reprieve from the somber mood that had pervaded their home. Reba watched them, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips, wishing she could find the same carefree abandon.

Rishabh, sensing Reba's wistful gaze, approached her and extended his hand. "Mejo Mami, would you do me the honor of dancing with me?"

Reba hesitated for some time , her mind racing with a thousand conflicting thoughts. But the warmth in Rishabh's eyes and the gentle tug of his hand were too alluring to resist. With several shy nods, she placed her hand in his, and they stepped onto the dance floor.

As they moved in sync, their bodies swaying to the rhythm of the music, Reba felt a sense of liberation she hadn't experienced in years. Rishabh's hand at the crease of her waist, his gentle guidance, and the way their eyes locked in an unspoken conversation ignited a fire within her that she had long thought extinguished.When the music finally came to an end, Reba and Rishabh found themselves standing much closer than they had been before, their faces mere inches apart. Reba's heart pounded in her chest, and she could feel Rishabh's warm breath on her skin, sending a shiver of anticipation down her spine.

The moment was shattered by the arrival of Aadhya and Arjun, who eagerly beckoned their aunt and cousin to join them in the festivities. Reba and Rishabh reluctantly parted, their eyes lingering on each other, silently acknowledging the intensity of the connection they had just shared.

As the night wore on, Reba found herself increasingly drawn to Rishabh's side. They would steal glances, their fingers brushing against each other in fleeting moments, igniting a spark that threatened to consume them both. The air between them crackled with an electricity that was palpable, even to the casual observer.

Towards the late part of night as the guests began to depart, Reba and Rishabh found themselves alone in a secluded corner of the venue. The music had faded, and the hall was bathed in a soft, intimate glow. Rishabh turned to Reba, his eyes shining with a mixture of longing and trepidation.

Mejo Mami," he whispered, his voice barely audible above the distant chatter of the remaining guests. "I...I can't stop thinking about you Reba.

Reba felt her breath catch in her throat, her heart racing with a mixture of fear and exhilaration. She knew she should put a stop to this, to the growing intimacy between them, but in that moment, she found herself powerless to resist.

Rishabh reached out and gently took her hand, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through Reba's body. "let's go somewhere more private," he murmured, his eyes shining with a mix of desire and trepidation.

Reba hesitated for minutes, " somewhat private Rik? What's that private Rik ? and that in this wedding house? You mean it is urgent? Are you crazy my baby! If someone asks where we are? If my children call me once? It is 1am past now . Where is the place? Will that not be risky for us? Rebas mind racing with the implications of what Rishabh was suggesting to her. But the longing she felt for him, the need to be close to him, was overpowering. Nodding almost imperceptibly, she allowed Rishabh to lead her away from the dancing hall and down a dimly lit hallway.

As they walked towards private,in the down hall, Reba's pulse quickened. Blood pressure raised, She sweated. She knew it well what they were doing was wrong, that it went against every societal norms, their relationship and moral code she had been taught always to uphold. But in that moment, with Rishabh's hand in hers, she felt her alive, her senses heightened and her inhibitions lowering.she sensed what is going to happen.,, it would be rather better if after dinner ,she would leave this place with her children but every one asked her to stay this night! How is Abani now? Her mother rang her one hour before. He is sleeping with medication  

They both came upon a small alcove, hidden from the main festivities, and Rishabh gently pulled Reba inside, his fingers now tracing the outline of her face. "Mejo Mami" he whispered, his breath felt warm against her skin. "I really can't stop thinking about you." Reba's heart pounded in her chest as she gazed up at him, her own hands reaching up to caress his cheek. "Rik we shouldn't be doing this please," she murmured, "you have your moushumi. She awaits for you, my child. Consider our age and our relationship . Consider your parents,They won't ever accept this forbidden relationship between you and me. forget me Rik ! I understand your situation too. But your mamu is fighting against death and he is still living.Look at mine, vermillion in my forehead, mangal sutra in my necklace,look at my red benarasi I wore for your mamu. I love him too . What will you get from me? Please don't make me weak. even still as she leaned closer, her lips mere inches from his. "I know," Rishabh replied, his voice laced with longing. "But I can't help myself. mamima being with you, it feels so right, so _real_I am helpless." Slowly, almost involuntarily, Reba reached up and traced the contours of Rishabh's face, her fingertips lingering on his lips. The world around them faded away, and all that mattered was the connection they shared, a connection that defied the boundaries of propriety and social norms.

As their faces inched closer, Reba felt a surge of desire, a longing that had been simmering beneath the surface for far too long.

And then, in a moment of unguarded height of passion, their lips met first time in a tender, yet a desperate kiss. Reba felt a sudden surge of emotional oxytocin and endorphins surge coursing through her, a heady mixture of guilt, her hidden desire, and a desperate need for connection. Rishabh's arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her close, and she silently melted into his embrace, pressing her body on rishav chest strongly, all thoughts of propriety and consequences fading away. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the embrace, their kiss gradually deepening and deepening with a groaning sound from the deep throat of Reba suckling sound of other's saliva , gently biting each other's lips alternately , snaking tongue inside mouths with a sense of urgency and need. Reba's hands roamed on Rishabh's body, tracing the contours of his muscles, squeezing silently while rishav's fingers tangled in her hair, as if he were trying to commit every inch of her to memory.

When they finally pulled apart with a sigh of ecstasy, both breathless and flushed, Reba felt a wave of panic wash over her. "Rik, what have we done?" If someone sees us by the time? she whispered, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and longing. Rishabh reached out and gently caressed her cheek, his expression one of understanding and regret. "I'm sorry, Reba," he murmured. "I couldn't hold myself back any longer. But I know this is wrong, and I don't want to hurt you or anyone else." Reba then nodded, her own heart torn between the exhilaration of their shared intimacy and the crushing weight of guilt. "I know it Rik ," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "But truly I can't also deny how I feel about you, Rik. Even if it's wrong, even if it's forbidden and sin I am aware of "

Rishabh pulled Reba now into a tight embrace, his lips brushing against her forehead. "Then we'll figure it out, Reba," he murmured. "Together, we'll find a way to make this to work, if you agree, no matter the cost." Now we don't have the right place here. 

As they hugged each other tightly in the dimly lit alcove, the sounds of the wedding celebration fading into the background, Reba knew that their lives had irrevocably changed. The boundaries had been crossed already, the forbidden had been now tasted, and there was no further going back from this point. They would have to face the consequences of their actions, whatever they may be, but in that moment, all that mattered was the connection they shared, a bond that transcended the constraints of their wo

To be continued....