Loving the Forbidden

His Forbidden Fruit

HIS POV

There's something about her that's completely captivating. This morning, I wasn't sure if she would be sitting in the car with me. But when she did, I was absolutely spellbound. Although I pretended to be engrossed in my phone, she had my full attention from the moment she sat down. Whenever she's near, I'm overwhelmed by feelings I cannot quite name.

Ever since the day I saw her embrace my mother and sister with such joy, I've found it impossible to sleep. She was lost in her own world, so full of life. Yet it seems as though she's concealing something beyond her cheerful exterior.

I'm uncertain about these emotions, but one thing is clear: I want her to be a part of my life. Society may dictate that I shouldn't look at her or harbor feelings for her, but do I care?

Nothing can stop me from wanting her. I can see that I have an effect on her as well. Her cheeks flush, her gaze falters, and she shivers when she's close to me. She might try to hide her response, but it's there. She avoids me, yet knows that won't last forever. Soon enough, she'll be mine, my precious flower.

While sitting in the café, I noticed that she had nothing to eat, so I offered her a packet of chips, which she gladly accepted and ate. As she slept next to me, she appeared angelic. Although she seems like a carefree girl, I know it's just a front. In reality, she is incredibly intelligent and attentive to even the smallest details. My sister's voice interrupted my thoughts, saying, "Stop staring at her." "I wasn't staring," I responded, turning my gaze to the window. Meanwhile, my brother-in-law went to a nearby shop to buy some water bottles. My sister sensed my interest in Hazel, a nickname that suits her even better than her real name. When Hazel shifted in her sleep, with her neck in an awkward position and a few strands of hair covering her face, I gently tucked them behind her ear and adjusted her position to make her more comfortable. Shortly after, my brother-in-law returned, and we engaged in a discussion about the ups and downs of their relationship. I've always been supportive of their relationship, primarily because of my love for my sister. If she wants to marry Rajiv, I'll ensure it happens, no matter what it takes.

The accident dramatically altered my life. I was caught up in a whirlwind of activities—working, studying, and occasionally partying. Although not inherently a party enthusiast, I did attend them from time to time. In my social life, several girls showed interest in me, and some captured my attention. Yet none intrigued me as much as my little flower. She never sought my attention, often avoiding me despite the undeniable connection we shared. That's okay; I let her be, fully confident that she'll eventually reach out to me.

As we approached the temple, I attempted to gently awaken her. Moving a few strands of hair off her face, I softly called, "Angel, wake up." She simply nestled her face into my hand, making me smile. "You have no idea what you do to me, my little flower," I murmured as I slightly shook her. For the first time, she opened her eyes and stared into mine. It was surprising, as the Hazel I know would never look at me in that way. "We're here, angel," I informed. She suddenly snapped out of her trance and quickly sat up, adjusting her hair and clothes. Even in simple jeans and a traditional Indian top, she looked stunning.

With Rajiv's help, I settled into the wheelchair. Ugh, I really can’t stand this thing, but it looks like I’ll have to put up with it for a few more weeks. Everyone else showed up at the temple, and we made our way inside. I watched as people prayed, and I took a moment to close my eyes, giving thanks to God for my sister's success. I truly hope she has a bright future ahead and finds happiness with Rajiv.

When I finally opened my eyes, I spotted her in deep prayer. There was this serious and somewhat sad look on her face that made me curious. What could possibly be weighing on her mind? But as soon as she opened her eyes, I quickly looked away, not wanting to get caught staring. Before long, my parents, Sweta, and Rajiv gathered to perform some rituals, and just like that, we were all set to go. It felt nice to be part of this moment, even if it was a little undefined.

It was getting late in the evening, and after enjoying dinner, we were on our way back home. She sat beside me, but her unusual silence made me a bit concerned. She hadn't spoken for a while, which might be due to Sweta and Rajiv's ongoing argument. She appeared anxious, carefully listening to their heated exchange. A hint of panic crossed her face when Rajiv suggested calling off the engagement. I remained unfazed, as having spent ample time with them, I knew this was typical for them, and they'd likely reconcile by tomorrow. "Will they be okay?" my little flower asked me, her voice filled with worry. "It's a common occurrence, my princess," I reassured her. "Do you want to do something to take your mind off it?" She promptly agreed.

She asked if we could play Ludo, and I was happy to oblige. I'd never seen her in such a childlike state—she pouted and whined when she lost the first game. Determined, she promptly started a new round, claiming she'd win this time. "Yes! A six, I'm going to win soon," she exclaimed with a gleeful smile. I grinned, knowing well she might be frustrated again soon enough. As it turned out, after a few moves, I won once more. She pouted at me, and I found myself wishing I could kiss that pout away. I shook off the thought and set up another game. "Here you go, little flower. Maybe this time will be yours," I said, more for the joy of witnessing her relaxed and carefree demeanor than anything else. Her pouting was just an adorable bonus. "Please, please, please," she was nearly bouncing in her seat, eager to knock out my piece. However, luck wasn't on her side. "You're cheating," she accused playfully. Her little claim made me want to pull her close and listen to all her grievances. "How am I cheating, little flower?" I asked, gently lifting her chin to meet my gaze. "How are you winning every game? I think you're up to something," she pouted again. As much as I wanted to tease that lip, I kept my focus, moved my last piece into home, and emerged victorious once again.

"I don't want to play with you anymore; you're cheating," she said, turning away from me. "Look at me, little flower," I urged. She turned towards me, and I suggested, "Let's change the rules: the winner has to agree to anything the loser asks. You can ask for anything you want." She grinned mischievously and requested that I close my eyes. I complied willingly. After a few moments, she asked me to open them again. Upon opening my eyes, I discovered that she had written "Loser" and drawn a small flower beside it. "Now, that's not very nice, little flower, is it?" I remarked, just as I heard the most beautiful sound – her giggle, accompanied by her playful tongue sticking out at me. We were nearing home and almost forgot about the couple arguing in front of us. Spending time in our private bubble is pure bliss. Soon, it will be only us in our little world, my forbidden fruit.