Keshav read it twice. She mentioned her husband travelling. She’s hinting she’s alone sometimes. Just like in those chats with the decent guys. His cock stirred slightly in his track pants even though he had just showered off the colours. Stop. Don’t get hard thinking about this. But she’s opening up… to “Aryan”. He replied quickly, keeping the tone warm and respectful, not pushing too hard.
Aryan Malhotra 4:25 PM Eighteen years is impressive. That kind of dedication shows. I can understand the quiet evenings — after moving, my own place sometimes feels too still after a long day in court. Reading helps me too. Right now I’m going through some Tagore essays and a couple of contemporary Indian novels. Any recommendations from your side? I’d genuinely value your suggestions.
He sent it and stepped out of the bathroom, trying to look normal. Kalpana was in the living room, now changed into a fresh light blue kurti, her hair still damp from washing off colours. She looked beautiful in that effortless, mature way — the same woman whose private videos and pictures he had seen, whose body he had watched through the window. She has no idea I know about any of that. Or that I came last night thinking about it. The thought made his face warm with shame and something darker.
Another message arrived while he was helping set the table for an early dinner.
Kalpana Rao 5:03 PM Tagore is always a good choice — his essays on nationalism and education are still so relevant. For contemporary, I’d suggest “The Ministry of Utmost Happiness” by Arundhati Roy if you haven’t read it yet. It’s layered and powerful. Or “The Great Indian Novel” by Shashi Tharoor for something more satirical and fun. What genre do you usually lean towards when you want to unwind?
The conversation was flowing naturally now. She was asking questions back. Keshav felt a dangerous mix of excitement and guilt as he replied from his room, door slightly ajar so he could hear if anyone came.
Aryan Malhotra 5:18 PM Thank you — both sound excellent. I’ll pick one up this week. I usually go for literary fiction with strong character work or essays that make me think. Work can be stressful, so books are my escape. I moved here partly for a fresh start after some personal changes. New city, new pace. It’s been… adjusting. Your students are probably grateful for a teacher who still believes in the power of stories.
Kalpana Rao 5:47 PM Personal changes can be difficult, but sometimes they lead to better things. I hope Pune brings you some peace. As for my students — most are good kids, just distracted. A few actually engage deeply and those moments make the job worthwhile. I’ve been married for twenty-three years now. My husband is a good man, but business keeps him occupied. These small conversations about books remind me there’s still room for thoughtful exchange in life.
Keshav read the last part and felt his stomach flip. Twenty-three years married. Dad’s always busy. She made those videos and pictures for him… but maybe he doesn’t see them the way she wants. That’s why she replies to decent guys online. She wants to feel seen. The thought made him ache in a way that had nothing to do with the dry spell anymore. He replied carefully, not pushing, just being present.
