The meeting room door slid open and the shift in the energy was instant

A moment ago, they were three men half recovering from kaashvi's unfiltered ranting echoing through advik's stupidly clever call

Now, they were back to being the pillars of the party

Focused, sharp, dangerous

Kabir walked in first jaw clenched, eyes calculating but still with a charismatic casual radiance already flipping through all the discussions, files, briefs in his head

He still had a lingering smirk from earlier but it died the second he stepped inside the boardroom

Dhruv followed calm, observant utterly unreadable his voice had been warm laughing at kaashvi's words but here his aura cooled instantly. He switched into strategist mode like someone ready to get the work done

And then entered aviraj

Everything went silent
He didn't smirk. He didn't react his face was a perfect mask- cold, authoritative but observing

Senior ministers, district coordinators, old political sharks- all were seated whispering, waiting

The moment they entered the murmurs dipped not silent just cautious
Ministers settled, files opened.

And then aviraj saw him

Sitting on the left side of the long table
Black shirt, perfect smile

The trademark of his 'devil in disguise' aura dripping from every pore

Vivaan Agnihotri

He turned the second he sensed aviraj's presence

Their eyes met and vivaan's smirk widened

Aviraj didn't say anything and didn't waste a breath on reaction

He walked to the table straight spined unbothered authority the kind that made even the seniors adjust themselves

But Vivaan?

He lived for theatrics

He pushed back his chair back slightly leaned an elbow on the table that infuriatingly smug smile never leaving his face

"Singh" he said his voice, smooth deliberately loud enough

"Finally, you blessed us with your presence we thought Delhi traffic swallowed you alive"

Aviraj didn't slow and didn't stop
he took his seat on the right side of the long table just opposite to vivaan

a perfect diagonal

a prefect war

A few ministers hid their smiles

Kabir for a moment looked at Vivaan and then at Dhruv both trying not to laugh
Aviraj placed his file on table slow and controlled

Then he finally looked at Vivaan

"Traffic never stops me" he said quietly

"And you don't matter enough to delay me"

The room went still

Vivaan eyebrows shot up- he loved this game as he shook his head lightly

"Oh, I matter Singh, enough that your people can't get enough of me or my whereabouts"

Dhruv and Kabir looked at each other pressing their lips together

"phir bolte hai log politics boring hai mai soch raha hu saare entertainment subscription khatam kardu inn dono ko sath baithake dekhe bass"

Kabir muttered earning a sharp elbow from Dhruv who was two seconds away from laughing out loud

A couple of junior ministers hid their laughs

Aviraj didn't flinch

"As usual you pay attention to everything except where it's needed to be, focus on politics not on gossip you overhear like aunties"

A sharp inhale went through the ministers

But Vivaan didn't back off

He leaned back in his chair like the star performer finally getting the spotlight

"What can I say?"

Vivaan placed a hand dramatically on his chest eyes glowing in mischief

"I am in demand even aviraj Singh's legal team is entertained by me. Vivaan said gesturing loosely toward Kabir without even looking
Woh kehte hain na mujhe dekhe bina reh nahi sakte or pasand kiye bina jee nahi skate"

"abe iski toh raj ke sath personal history ki khundas mujh par kyu nikal raha hai ye sasta Akshay kumar"

Kabir muttered now throwing daggers at vivaan through eyes

"at least aviraj Singh's legal team knows how to be best at their works"

Kabir said in professional tone but a smirk forming on his lips

Vivaan clicked his tongue

"Bro, you sound like you are about to reject my loan application, relax"

Kabir didn't miss a beat

"taiyar rehna jis tarah ki teri harkat hai loan lene ke din dur nahi hai tere"

Kabir said

A couple of ministers coughed clearly trying not to laugh

Vivaan leaned back in his chair one hand resting casually on the table eyes glinting with mischief

"Meri harkat? Maana padega raj ke sath rehke dhamkiya dena seekh gaya hai tu acche se"

he said voice smooth dripping charm
Kabir smirked and tilted his head lightly

"uske sath toh hu abhi bhi, toxic ex jaise saalon se uske piche nahi pada"

Kabir said making vivaan glare at him knowing what he was indicating to

Dhruv sitting quietly beside aviraj left out a soft chuckle careful not to draw too much attention

He glanced at his brother eyes sparkling with mischief

"Ladd toh dono aise rahe hai jaise tere hi pyar ke maare ho"

he murmured leaning closer so only aviraj could hear

Aviraj didn't turn to look fingers drumming lightly on the table but his jaw tightened just a fraction

Aviraj kept his expression unreadable eyes fixed on the files in front of him but the noise around him kabir's muttered threats vivaan's smug charm, dhruv's quiet commentary it cracked something open inside him

Not visibly but enough that the memory hit him like a punch he didn't ask for

He knows there is no use to say anything to them suddenly his mind went back to a few years back

Flashback years ago

Four boys stood in their casuals

No long table, no ministers, no politics

The first one stood in front black t shirt clinging to him hair perfectly styled like he was born ready for camera; he wasn't even pretending to stretch he was checking himself out in the reflection of a parked car window

Smug smile, easy charm, the innocent devil aura that came too naturally and the worst part he knew he looked good

"guys tell me honestly, koi ladki kar sakti hai mana iss face card ko I mean look at me"

he said flipping his hair like some hero with a huge grin

Before anyone could respond

The second one snorted loudly in his chaotic glory jawline sharp smile sharper, the type who would flirt can flirt effortlessly but then still get kicked out in five minutes

Basketball in hand, sweatband crooked

Shoes mismatched like his personality

He pointed the ball at other

"haa kisi moive mei side character ke kutte ka role mil jayega tujhe"

he said

The first one scoffed unbothered

"atleast I have face people will remember aur tu- saale joote toh same pehen leta"

The second one gasped throwing ball at him

"tu rukk tera saara style ulta karta hu mai aaj Akshay kumar ke spotdada"

Behind them

The third one calm as ever stood with a bottle of water in one hand and his head leaned back slightly eyes closed as if meditating through their stupidity

Mature, gentle and the unofficial therapist of the group

"tum dono chup rahoge" he said

"game start hua nahi abhi se olympic level drama kar rahe ho"

And in the middle-

The fourth one

Bouncing the ball on ground, eyes fixed on it as if scanning everything, ready to capture the prey

Black hoodie, face carved in permanent seriousness like a grumpy captain who tolerated everyone solely because walking away would give them too much satisfaction but he knew no matter what they were born to be together and support each other

He turned to throw the ball in the basket and then stared at the three others

"vivaan" he said voice flat

"Stop flirting with your own reflection isse nahi aari hai ladkiya tere piche"

"self-love raj self-love" vivaan winked

Aviraj ignored him

"Kabir"

"basketball khelne aaye circus mei nahi shoes dekh apne"

Kabir clutched his chest dramatically

"tu mujhe joker samajta hai raj yahi dosti?"

aviraj finally turned to dhruv - the only one who wont give him migraine

"aur tu stop babysitting them"

Vivaan clicked his tongue

"treat us with some respect raj, humare bina kaise chalegi teri team"

Kabir slapped basketball into aviraj's chest

"chalo panchayat band karo abb"

As the game started

"vivaan saale paas Karega yaa khada rahega photoshoot nahi chalra hai" Kabir yelled

Vivaan flipped the ball lazily in air

"bro talent takes time dimag se khelna hota hai tere jaise ghoda banke nahi"

Dhruv catching the ball one handed bolted towards the hoop calling over his shoulder

"bolta rahiyo tu bass" he said with a small smirk

Vivaan sprinted after him, gasped dramatically

"waah singh brothers and their personal lawyer ganging up on me"

"haa tere cases toh tere sasurjii solve karte hai na unhe kon ladta hai beyy"

Kabir scoffed without looking at him

Vivaan skidded to a stop mid run

"abey- abeyy Kabir tu ruk- he said taking deep breaths

But Kabir wasn't done he threw hi towel at vivaan's face

"tera future dekh ke lag raha hai mera regular customer tu hi Banega"

Dhruv laughed at them still with the ball ven aviraj finally broke not a laugh but a tiny shift in his expression

Aviraj who was focused on the game finally lost it just a little bit

Looking at vivaan chin lifting and subtly jerked his head towards dhruv as if silently communicating

Vivaan understanding nodded silently as he grinned wide, real, unguarded as if silently saying

"on it"

No smug, no charm just the old rhythm between them

Vivaan sprinted forward without warning coming at dhruv like missile dhruv tried to dodge it but vivaan wrapped an arm around his waist

"abe- oye- pagal!"

Kabir seeing this ran towards but was too late before anyone could do anything
Aviraj sprinted forward one clean smooth move

He stole the ball back from dhruv's loosened grip turned and started dribbling towards the basket

Vivaan still hanging on dhruv yelled

"jaaa raaajjjj jaaaa teri ball tere sath hai jaa"

"abe saale cheater" Kabir yelled chasing aviraj

Aviraj sprinted calm, calculated and sharp
Vivaan dragging a struggling dhruv across the court shouted as aviraj did the basket

He jumped , the ball in the air, perfect arc and a clear shot

The ball passed through the net
Vivaan threw both arms in victory still holding dhruv hostage

"jeet gayeeee" he yelled and ran to him launching himself side hugging him excitedly

"abe abb toh chord biwi nahi hu teri" dhruv groaned

And for the first time in the match aviraj laughed as they did high five

Not a smirk not a small huff

But a real, unguarded laugh

Vivaan slung his arm around aviraj's shoulder dhruv joined from the other side and Kabir slipping between them

Four boys

Sweet, chaotic, loud

Teasing and playing , laughing like the world hasn't touched them

The perfect balance

One calm

One cold

One chaotic

One charming

Four best friends

Four corners of the same stupid universe they created

Flashback ends

The sound of a chair scraping snapped aviraj out of it

The laughter vanished the court gone

Aviraj blinked once slow, controlled returning the cold fluorescent lights of the room

The murmurs of ministers the shuffle of files

Aviraj straightened in his chair expression falling back to that unreadable mask he wore like armour

Vivaan and Kabir both noticed his shift

Vivaan's smirk pausing for a second
Kabir narrowed his eyes

Dhruv leaned a little closer

"theek hai?"

Aviraj didn't look at him didn't speak just nodded

He inhaled once shot sharp locking the history away

And when he lifted his gaze again it was the mla candidate not the boy from basketball court

Cold, focused, ready

"we should began the discussion"

he said voice firm enough to slice through room's noise

One of the minister's cleared his throat

"lets start. The delhi constituency requires a strong candidate, only a few months are left for elections we have to give the name soon other parties are already ready with their candidates" he said

"we have two names- vivaan Agnihotri and aviraj singh"

Every eye shifted

Half to vivaan

Half to aviraj

Vivaan leaned back crossing his legs tapping his pen against the table casual but calculated in a way that screamed entitlement

Aviraj sat still spine straight face unreadable casual but intimidating

"both of you have strong portfolios but we need clarity before high command finalises"

"with all due respect sir" vivaan said tone charming enough to fool anyone who didn't know him

"the constituency needs connection and I have spent years here. I know the ground workers, the people they trust me"

A few ministers nodded and vivaan looked at aviraj not with a smirk but a challenging expression

Aviraj didn't blink

Another minister added

"experience matters. Vivaan has been active publicly in party events"

Vivaan smiled wider

"and what about performance"

another minister countered glancing at aviraj

"aviraj had been showing his best in doing works where its needed with citizens, numbers don't lie"

Vivaan scoffed softly

"performance? Aviraj's contribution are ...corporate not political that's different"

Aviraj finally looked up, one raised eyebrow deadly silence

He spoke slowly, voice cold and unshakable

"corporate? Not political? Vivaan do you hear yourself or are you as always impressed by your own voice?"

A few people coughed to hide their laughter

Vivaan's smile faltered

Aviraj continued eyes locked on him tone razor sharp

"while you were giving speeches at party dinners I was fixing the mess, I was with citizens hearing their problems, I brought funds by my work I brought structure and you-" he stopped before he completed his words

"polaroid selfies aren't enough to be a mla"

Vivaan's jaw ticked just once but his smile snapped back into place, sharper almost glittering with the challenge

He leaned forward elbows resting casually on the table as if it wasn't a political war but a friendly debate he planned to win

"oh please" vivaan drawled

"Showing up to villages with a file doesn't make you people's hero. People vote for connection and the face they see on higher basis"

A murmur rippled across the ministers

Aviraj simple folded his hands on the table gazing cutting straight to him

"if connection means charming crowds for one day and disappearing for another month" he said voice low and lethal

"then congratulations Agnihotri you might win a charity award, mla ka ticket nahi"
Some ministers snorted

Vivaan shot a glare at them retuning attention to aviraj eyes narrowed with a dangerous mix of irritation and enjoyment
Vivaan leaned forward

"I have grassroots support, something you don't"

Aviraj didn't blink

"that's cute, you mean the support you bought with cash and free liquor?"

A pin drop silence hit the room

Kabir looked up and dhruv looked at both vivaan and aviraj

Vivaan clenched his fists

"mind your words, singh"

Aviraj tilted his head lazily

"I don't mind my words, I mean them"

He leaned back voice dropping a little but calm and lethal

"you want ticket because you want power, I want ticket because I can deliver power"

Ministers looked between them come confused some impressed

Vivaan tried one last push

"we both know who is more connected to the constituency, I have lived here, and worked here"

Aviraj's jaw flexed once

"and yet-" he said quietly

"in six months I have done more for that constituency than you have in six years"
He slid a file forward

"development blueprint, budget allocation, ground surveys"

"not newspaper highlights or instagram reels"

The hit was clean

The ministers flipped through the file eyebrows rising

Vivaan raised an eyebrow

"you carried it like a school project, cute topper aviraj"

Aviraj glared

"its called work, you should try it sometimes"

Vivaan pressed a hand to his chest

"shots fired you hurt me raj" but he said while mockingly smiling

"why should you get the ticket vivaan what's your vision?" the senior minister asked
Vivaan straightened the switch was clean- professional, practiced. His voice carried enough confidence

"because I know the pulse of the people" he said leaning forward

"I have handled youth cells, ground rallies, public hearings I have been there in floods, droughts, protests - not for cameras but because I was raised here"

He pointed to another file- slimmer but organized

"my work might not look neat" a flicker of his gaze at aviraj

"but its there street lighting grievances solved, local health camps coordinates, and much more. People here recognize me"

One of the ministers nodded slowly

'also I know political machinery here"

A few ministers murmured

"and" vivaan added eyes sharp but not hostile

"I have been doing this for years public presence matters"

Vivaan continued voice smooth

"and delhi needs someone approachable someone who doesn't scares voters just by standing" he said with a smirk looking at aviraj

A minister coughed badly hiding his smile
Only then aviraj looked up - slow, bored, dangerous

"you done?"

Vivaan grinned wider

"for now"

"iske paas itna dimag aa kaha se gaya rattuu tote jaise bole jaa raha tha guarantee uncle ki gaaliya suunke yaad kiya hai saale ne"

Kabir muttered to dhruv making him choke on a laugh covering his mouth like he was pretending to cough

But the rest of the room stayed tense - because the two men at the table looked like they were about to turn the table into the battlefield

Vivaan leaned back comfortably arms crossed looking like he owned the place
Aviraj finally leaned forward his posture straight his voice came out low steady cutting through the room like blade

"I don't need to be approachable, I need to be effective and that I am"

"oh absolutely" vivaan nodded enthusiastically

"dictators are very effective"

Kabir choked dhruv rubbed his forehead looking down

Aviraj didn't react

"no one asked you to bow to me, relax for now"

Vivaan placed a hand over his heart

"good I was worried I'd ruin mu suit"

A few ministers laughed

"aviraj what's your view why should you get the ticket?" the senior minister asked

Vivaan's smile sharpened

"oh he wants it, badly look at his face - this is his excited expression"

Aviraj with no expression looked at him being done

"that's your argument? My face?"

Vivaan shrugged

"you should work with what you have"

Aviraj leaned back

"I will work with the constituency you can work with makeup artists I guess"

Vivaan gasped dramatically

"I will have you know this face is natural and god gifted"

"gifted by who?" aviraj muttered

"filters?"

Kabir chuckled silently taking out his phone

"konsa kabristaan chahiye kyuki jis tareeke se tere papa ghoor rahe hai zinda nahi bachega tu aaj"

he typed the message sending the same message to both vivaan's and to aviraj's chat

Vivaan's phone buzzed a second later aviraj's did too

Both glanced down and both froze

And then both shot Kabir the same deadly look from the opposite ends of the table

Kabir just sat there elbows on a chair pretending to read the file but smiling like a man enjoying fully

"ek kaam kar ek extra book kariyo kyuki iske baad tere case ladne ke din jaane wale hai Bhagwan ki "meher" nahi rahegi tere upar"

vivaan typed back without looking up deliberately typing meher boldly

Vivaan didn't even bother hiding the evil glint in his eyes as he pressed send

A moment later kabir's phone buzzed

Kabir looked down read the message and the way his jaw locked told everyone de wasn't smiling anymore

The name was bold, aimed straight at
Kabir's weak spot

Kabir's head snapped up

His eyes narrowed murderously at vivaan

Dhruv being done with them muttered under his breath

"banado wwe iss meeting ko acche se"

Kabir leaned slightly forward jaw tightening typing another message

"abe naam firse bola na toh phone se nikalke sabse saamne pitega"

Vivaan sitting their just played a satisfied smirk on his lips

Aviraj on the other hand just sat there first stared at Kabir with expression of a man calculating where to hide a body

Before anyone could say anything aviraj's gaze moves toward the other end of the table

Aviraj's father sat there arms folded expression stone carved eyes fixed on his sone but expression speaking

"beta ghar aa tu"

And next to him

Vivaan's father was rubbing his forehead as vivaan slowly lifted his eyes pretending to look anywhere but him shooting his son with the stare that screamed

"shaadi mei naachne wale joker jaise behave matt kar"

The two elders looked at their sons and then at each other exchanging a tired sigh

Both were observing everything - their expression calm

A slight crease formed on aviraj's father's eyes as he observed his son
Not just words but controlled intensity in his stance

Vivaan's father leaned back slightly eyes narrowing he was impressed by his vision and words knowing he told him to behave and present like this but seeing his banter with aviraj he was again doubting his decision

Two senior ministers acknowledging the storm brewing between the next generation
Neither speak neither flinched but the air between them was charged

Finally aviraj spoke

"my vision is clear I know what people need, and I am ready to deliver without excuses or daddy's pressure"

Vivaan raised an eyebrow

"ohh soo 'abba maarenge' card is on the table now

Aviraj looked bored

"we all know vivaan I am here because I want to be. Not because someone forced me"
Vivaan smiled charming as ever

"and I am here because someone forced me but I will win so balance in the world raj"
Aviraj's eyes lifted slowly

"take down your assumptions, my work speaks louder than that"

Vivaan chuckled under his breath

"people follow influence, charisma, visibility"

He folded his arms leaning casually

"you are too closed off raj, too controlled, too invisible"

Aviraj held his gaze

"invisibility?" he repeated

"is that what you call being present where it matter?"

Vivaan leaned closer not threatening just determined

"this isn't about pr for me" he said

"its strategy people need leader they can relate to someone who can stand infront of the mic and talk, someone who can debate"
Aviraj didn't flinch

"relatability isn't leadership"
"reality is"

"people doesn't need someone who knows how to pose - they need someone who knows how to solve"

The silence after his words wasn't empty- it was heavy

"you are disciplined raj I will give you that you work hard, harder than most but leadership isn't about working hard
"its about working the right way"

Aviraj leaned forward too matching the stance eyes locked on his old friend turned rival

"and your 'right way'" he said quietly
"is to shine bright enough so no one sees the cracks underneath"

Vivaan's throat bobbled because he felt that one

Still he smirked

"you think in black and white but the world is grey raj"

Aviraj's voice dropped lower

"and you keep pretending grey makes you smart when all it makes you is unpredictable"

Vivaan sat straighter eyes sharp

"unpredictability is power"

Aviraj's tone sliced in air

"stability is leadership"

Another silence

Another invisible punch exchanged
Vivaan just smiled - his usual devil in disguise smile

"oh come on singh, don't be shy. Say it
You just don't like that people like me more than they fear you"

Aviraj's jaw flexed once

"I don't want them to fear me" he said quietly
"I want them to trust my work not my smile"

Vivaan laughed low, charming irritatingly smooth

"you and your 'work'
"if work alone won elections you would be the party president by now"

Kabir leaned to dhruv and whispered

"isko koi bataye charm se votes nahi milte warna tiger shroff pm hota"

Dhruv covered his mouth to hide a laugh

"or raj ko kon bataye ki logo ko maut ke jaise ghurne se woh chup nahi baithte" dhruv muttered back

Before anyone could say anything the party general secretary cleared his throat - loudly

"alright enough we are here to evaluate who is more suitable for ticket not who can roast whom better"

The room straightened

Both men leaned back eyes locked

The war paused not ended
The room falls into stiff silence

"both candidates are deserving" one of the ministers said

"but aviraj - your split with mandira followed by surprise announcement of your wife could stir unnecessary public chatter"

"and on top alliance with mandira was useful for party atleast we could have got more funds and about this girl your wife- who is she..-" one of the ministers said mentioning indirectly targeting and insulting aviraj and kaashvi

The minute kaashvi's name left his mouth aviraj's jaw tightened

The second minister's sentence slid toward her aviraj stopped breathing for a moment

His fingers, which had been resting calmly on the table curled into a slow controlled fist
His jaw locked so sharply a muscle jumped near his temple

The entire room felt the heaviness

Kabir and dhruv also sat straight ready to thrash the minister vivaan who was till now not in much seriousness looked at aviraj seeing him giving that deadly glare to the ministers the way his expression changed he knew something was wrong

Vivaan looked at Kabir as if silently asking

Kabir typed a message hurriedly

"kaashvi= danger zone topic for him"

Vivaan looked at the message sent by Kabir and understood

Aviraj didn't raise his voice

He didn't need to

He looked up finally and the look in his eyes was the kind that warned the people

"don't"

His voice was low steady and more dangerous than a shout

The minister blinked confused

Aviraj continued tone clipped like a blade

"my wife's name will not be dragged into political calculation or public gossip
Not by you. Not by anyone in this room"

The air went still even vivaan straightened looking at him and surprised to see him like this he knows how aviraj is and how is anger is but seeing him this protective that too for a girl was new for him too

Aviraj's gaze didn't shift it pinned the minister exactly where he was sitting

"you want to discuss my work, my experience, my capability?'

He leaned forward voice dropping quietly

"do it. But you will not speak about my wife. She is not up for your evaluation. I am. So stay right in the limits"

No one moved

Even the senior leaders swallowed quietly

Aviraj's father didn't intervene, didn't shrink just watched him with calmness

Vivaan's smirk had vanished his expression was unreadable but his eyes carried something between respect and something old almost familiar

Kabir whispered under his breath
"bach gaya warna aaj political nahi medical emergency ban jaata"

Dhrun nodded

"zinda hai kismat acchi hai warna kaashvi ke naam ki maut abhi mil jaati"

Aviraj didn't look away from the minister until the man broke the eye contact first

The room was still suffocating under the weight of aviraj's words

That's when vivaan moved

He didn't smirk

Didn't crack a joke

He simply sat up straighter eyes sharp not playful or mocking

"personal matters - aviraj or anyone else's don't belong in this room"

No raised voice no drama just a clean strike like a old friend supporting other but not directly

A few officials shifted awkwardly, a few looked down

He doesn't stops in first line he leans back taps his pen once on the table

"also if you are more interested is gossip than governance maybe you are in the wrong meeting"

He continues

"a man's personal life- engagement, breakup, marriage, whatever - has zero bearing on state level decisions"

Vivaan's tone stays cool but his words serious

The entire room shuts up

And for the first time in a long while aviraj turned to look at vivaan his jaw loosens a bit not shock but that quiet unexpected jolt when someone you though was done with you suddenly stands by your side

There's a flicker in his eyes

Not gratitude but more like softness
Vivaan avoided his gaze focusing on files again

Dhruv said

"gentlemen keep the discussion to where its needed"

Simple controlled

His fists still clenched thinking about them dragging her name

Noticing it dhruv whispered

"calm down its fine now"

Aviraj just nodded but quietly he opens his phone his eyes scanning the wallpaper- their picture, her picture smiling brightly
As he inhaled slowly and then exhaled looking at the picture as if it was his only anchor his thumb gently brushing over her face

Unknown to him dhruv Kabir and even vivaan saw the gesture being surprised
Dhruv and Kabir already knowing gave the knowing smirks while vivaan who was surprised looked at them who in return just shrugged

"he is falling for her"

vivaan typed the message and sent it to Kabir being surprised seeing aviraj like this for the first time
Kabir seeing his message just smirked while typing

"falling? Nashe mei rehta hai uske" he replied

The tension in the room was clearly still sharp when the senior minister cleared his throat

A low authoritative sound that immediately silenced everyone

The senior minister folded his hand on the table gaze shifting between aviraj and vivaan

"both of you" he exhaled slowly

"are strong candidates and this" he gestured at everyone and the charged room

"proves exactly why the decision cant be rushed"

A couple ministers nodded reluctantly

He continued.

"your work both of your speaks for itself, aviraj your development initiatives and ground engagement have been noteworthy"

He paused for a little

"vivaan your public presence and support with voters is equally valuable"

Neither of them reacted

"so" the ministers concluded firmly

"no decision is made today"

A ripple of murmurs rose across the table

"this will be finalised only after a comprehensive review- ground reports, future strategy, party requirements and constituency dynamics"

His voice hardened

"not emotion, not personal matters, not temporary noise"

A direct warning to the minister who dragged kaashvi into it

The senior minister shut the file infront of him

"the party will observe both of you closely in the coming weeks

Your next steps- public and internal will decide the final call"

"you all can leave"

Chairs scraped as everyone stood up

Papers shuffled ministers stood up

Vivaan rose in fluid confidence

Aviraj stood in cold precision

Both men exchanged one last looked no words but fire was unmistakable

Dhruv let out a slow breath

Kabir stretched his neck as if done with a hard labour

"chalo aaj ka drama khatam"

-------------

The room was silent kaashvi who was earlier with ayra and advik making them listen her rants was now alone in her room sitting cross legged on bed one hand on knees head popped on hand eyes looking at one particular wall as if drowned deeply in her own thoughts

"gadhe kahike kaam naa kaaj ke dushman mere dimag ke" she says

Kaashvi exhales slow and shaky like she has been holding her breath since morning

She picks up her phone her wallpaper lights up

It's the picture she pretends she hates
The one she couldn't delete

The selfie she took that day - aviraj standing beside her holding her in his arms his hands around her waist eyes fixed on her while she was smiling at the camera

Her throat tightens but a smile tuck at her lips remembering there moments

"pagal aadmi kabhi camera mei nahi dekhne wale" she said shaking her head looking at his face

Slowly she traces her thumb over the screen over the outline of his face the stupid smirk he gets when he knows she is annoyed because of him still soft for him

"idiot"

she mutters under her breath - she still doesn't know if she means that for him or for herself

"I don't know what I am feeling what I am to you but I know it isn't just a relationship for me its much more- you are much more than it" she says the confession sits in the air, heavy , real

She sniffles frustrated

"but aapko kuch samaj nahi aata naa khud bolte ho naa mujhse puchte ho"

she whines hitting the pillow once like an angry toddler
Her chest tightens again

Why does he have to take so much space inside my heart? She demands from the ceiling like it owes her an answer

The she straightens and folds her hand dramatically

"Why kanha jii whyyyy"

She throws her hands up

"why does one meeting one stupid tension filled meeting of his affect her like this"

She clutches her phone again glaring at his picture

"noor ye noor woh aa jao ek baar ghar phir bataungi ye noor tumhara muh ka noor kaise utaarti hai"

she huffs annoyed, jealous, annoyed, worried - all mixed into one giant emotional mess

Kaashvi flops back on the bed the phone still in her hand his face glowing on the screen
She traces his jawline on the screen again
Slowly

Like she is memorizing something she already knows

Then her expression softens stupidly against her own will

"bass aa jao na abb" she whispers almost helplessly

As kaashvi was lost in her though a soft knock breaks her spiral

"kaashvi?"

Her mother in law's voice calm graceful comes from outside

Kaashvi sits straighter adjusting her clothes and hair

"aa jaiye maa" she says

The door opens and her mother in law steps inside draped in an elegant maroon saree with a warm smile

She looked at kaashvi- noticing her dull face, the messy hair

She walked towards her sitting beside her gently caressing her hair

"what happened?" she asked softly knowing something was wrong since morning kaashvi was acting weird not talking much, lost in her own thoughts

Kaashvi shook her head quietly eyes darting away

"kuch nahi maa..bass aise hi-"

Her voice cracked a little before she could finish

Her mother in law didn't push but kept her hand in her hair slow, soothing in a motherly way

"beta" she said quietly

"mai maa hu dekh kar samaj jaati hu jub bacche dikkat mei ho abb batao"

And that did it

Kaahvsi's throat tightened as she looked at her mother in law

She tried genuinely tried to keep it together

"I am fine maa"

Her mother in law gave another small knowing smile

"fine log aise muh banakar nahi baithe hote"

She tucked a loose strand of kaashvi's hair behind her ear with gentle fingers

Finally kaashvi sighed

She didn't want to trouble her with the chaos in her heart but she cant hold it all alone now

"kya batau maa aapke bete ne dimag kharab kiya hua hai hadd hoti hai pehla karwa Chauth hai or chale gaye meeting mei or bataya bhi nahi aayenge yaa nahi kub aayenge pata nahi kabhi kuch nahi bolte"

kaashvi ranted like a child to a mother

Her mother in law didn't interrupt

She just listened the exact way a mother listens when her daughter finally breaks her silence

Kaashvi kept going on hands flying in frustration

"matlab pehla karwa Chauth hai mera maa"

she pointed at herself like a betrayed toddler

"aur unko koi farak hi nahi padra meeting, meeting, bass wahi duniya hai unki iss bechari biwi ka kya"

Her mother in law bit back a smile

"aur upar se" kaashvi continued getting more dramatic by the second

"batate bhi nahi, pata nahi aayenge nahi aayenge itne nakhre hai na kasam se"

She puffed out a breath, anger and hurt mixing

"ek toh dimag kharab kar dete hai apni harkaton se upar se attitude..attitude toh aise leke ghumte hai jaise khud pata nahi konse gajni ke hero honge aur phir expect karte hai mai samajh jau, kaise samjhu mai abb toh mujhe bhi farak nahi padta jo karna hai kare?"

Her mother in law finally let out a soft laugh

"beta dekhne se lag nahi raha tujhe farak nahi padta" she said teasingly

Kaashvi instantly went red

"maa!"

But her mother in law just looked at her with the gentlest amused smile

"bass shaant mere gatadhaari bheem shaant"

Kaashvi groaned and buried her face in her hands

"bass kaise smajau mai unki khaamoshi, unki care, sab kuch mix ho jaata hai aur phir mujhe pagal karke khud noor noor karne lagte hai"

Her mother in law cupped her cheek again

"tu aane de usse aaj mai batati hu kaan khinchke tere saamne saza dungi usse aise kaise meri bahu ko tang karta hai who"

her mother in law said in a teasing but trying to sound serious voice

She cupped her cheek again

"miss kar rahi hai usse?" she asked simply
Kaahsvi's throat tightened

Was she missing him? Its not like they have talked a lot or spent a lot of time together but still inside her it felt like only if he was here she would have been satisfied with just his presence also

"maa" she whispered defeated

Her mother in law smiled softly

"beta woh bhi tumhe hi soch raha higa, ziddi hai patthar nahi"

Kaashvi blinked looking at her

"par aayenge na? aaj bhi late hue toh?"

She wrapped her arm around kaashvi's shoulder from the side gently like consoling a daughter

"bilkul aayega apne papa jaisa hai ziddi hai, akdu bhi, par aayega zarur" kaahsvi looked at her with raised eyebrows

"kya papa bhi?" she asked surprised
Her mother in law nodded with a dramatic sigh

"jii haa abb apna dukh kya batau saalon se aadat ho hi gayi hai par ek trick hai" she said eyes glinting smiling mischievously as she winked

Kaashvi now curiously smiled facing her completely as if ready to hear the master plan

"kya kya" she asked

"jaldi maana nahi thoda acche se manane dena janab ko aise hi thodi maafi milegi"

Kaashvi blinked being surprised and amused

Her mother in law squeezed her shoulder tighter lower her voice like she was passing some ancient forbidden wisdom

"sachi?" kaashvi exclaimed

"haan bilkul" she whispered

"jub aadmi ziddi ho toh hum kyu maafi jaldi de? Thoda bhatkao Thoda tadpao usse tab samajhte hai ye log value"

Kaahsvi's mouth fell open

"maa aap bhi karti ho?" she whispered half shocked half delighted

Her mother in law nodded proudly while shrugging like she had just revealed a universal truth of womanhood

"haa haa ladayi jeetne mei purani player hu mai bhi" she said smugly

Kaashvi grinned

"toh matlab mujhe maana nahi hai" she asked

Her mother in law smirked

"yes seedhe nahi maana"

She leaned forward

"jab who aayega na aur aayega zaroor toh ek kaam karna"

Kaashvi waited wide eyed but excited

"don't talk to him first seedhe muh baat matt karna act like you don't care thoda distance bass dekhna 2 minute mei khud seedha ho jayega"

Kaashvi giggled while listening to her

"maa aap toh pro nikli"

She said overwhelmed and oddly comforted

Her mother in law lifted her chin proudly

"arre toh banna padta hai iss ghar ke mard zyada hi ziddi hai par pighalte bhi jaldi hai kya kare genetic problem hai lagta hai"

Kaahsvi's heart thudded stupidly as she laughed freely now

Her mother in law glanced at her face and laughed softly brushing her cheek again

"accha chalo katha padhne ka time ho raha hai ready ho jau"

She said standing up making kaashvi nod
Just then the door opened again with ayra and advik entering

"aree badi maa" ayra said

"kya Bhabhi, maa ko bhi humare zaalim bhai ki dastan batane lag gayi" advik said making kaashvi roll her eyes but smile while her mother in law just laughed at their antics

"bass bass ayra you help kaashvi in getting ready or tu-" her mother in law said coming towards them

Taking advik by her arm

"chal tu meri help karwa" she says dragging advik by arm

"arre par mai kyu mera karwa Chauth thodi na hai biwi bhi nahi aayi abhi toh" advik whined making all of them laugh

Priya smacked advik's head while dragging him

"biwi ke bacche chal tu" she said as they left the room as ayra turned to kaashvi while smiling and rubbing her hands as if ready to execute the plan

"chaliye Bhabhi aaj aise ready karenge aapko bhaiya bhi office jaana regret karenge aaj"

she said and kaashvi nodded and soon started getting ready

-------

"first this ticket and how did he dare to drag kaahsvi's name in all this" aviraj said flatly voice too calm to be safe

Dhruv's expression softened

"because that's politics they know where to poke"

Aviraj's fingers curled on the armrest

"I don't care what game they play" he said eyes fixed ahead

"but they don't drag her into it"

Kabir straightened a little, the joke slipping off his face just a notch

"hmm thoda zyada ho gaya tha" he admitted

"but you should be careful don't let them know your weakness raj they'll use it against you" he said leaning back

"waise bhi tu 2 minute or bolta toh buddhe ka bp hi shoot kar jaata"

Aviraj let out a humourless huff and looks at Kabir

"he crossed the line no one gets to say her name like that"

Dhruv walked to the table leaning against it studying aviraj carefully

"vivaan stepping in -" he began deliberately

"-that surprised you" dhruv finished

There was a moment of silence

No denial, no agreement just silence

Kabir raised his brow dramatically

"aree aree dhruv purane zakham matt khol yaha ye tadap raha waha iski purani Dilruba"

Aviraj shot him a look sharp enough to cut the glass

Kabir immediately zipped his lips

Aviraj leaned back fully now head resting against the chair eyes closing for a brief second

"he didn't do it for me" he said quietly

"he did it because that minister crossed the line"

Dhruv nodded

"maybe but whatever it was it looked like support"

Kabir smirked

"media ko kaafi pasand aayega ye sab friends to rivals kya mast story hai dono ki ek book toh banti hai"

Aviraj opened his eyes slowly

"why the hell is he so adamant to get this ticket"

Kabir shrugged

"you are too"

Aviraj's jaw tightened as he glared at Kabir

"kya ghur raha hai hum dono ke dost hai hum dono ka support karenge yaa dono ko kue mei phenk khud kudenge par chordenge nahi kisiko" Kabir said defending himself and dhruv

"or waise bhi maine konsa yaha vote dena hai" Kabir said crossing his arms on the back of his head while leaning back

Dhruv glanced between the two

"he doesn't need it we all know the people who don't need power chase it for reasons that aren't obvious"

Aviraj looked at him eyebrows furrowed

"like what?"

Dhruv shrugged titling his head

"like proving something, like refusing to lose, like not wanting you to win maybe"

Kabir exhaled slowly

"but why isne konsa uski bandi yaa bhains churayi thi"

"Kya pata churayi ho" dhruv said while shrugging

Aviraj scoffed

"he doesn't even want to be in politics"

Kabir nodded

"exactly which means this isn't about politics"

Silence sat heavy for a beat

Aviraj ran a hand over his face irritation bleeding into something more complicated remembering everything what happened between him and vivaan

"then what? He was the one to end everything he was the one to change so suddenly"

Dhruv looked at Kabir with a knowing expression and then at aviraj speaking carefully

"and you didn't ask him or tried to stop him"

Aviraj's hand stilled breath hitched his mind stopped for a moment

For a second room felt lighter

"I didn't need to"

he said voice low defensive by instinct

"people who want to leave don't wait to be stopped"

kabir watched him the humour gone now

"or maybe they wait .... and get tired of waiting"

Aviraj shot him a sharp look

"don't psychoanalyse me"

Kabir raised his both hand

"relax raj we are just stating possibilities not filing a charge sheet"

Dhruv didn't smile but leaned against the table calm but firm

"raj you don't chase you assume people will stay and if they don't you show like you don't get affected but you know how you feel... truly"

Aviraj clenched his jaw

"he knew me"

Dhruv nodded

"yes and you knew him"

That landed sharp in his chest

Kabir broke the silence softly almost cautiously

"sometimes problem isn't betrayal raj sometimes its pride colliding with silence"

Aviraj turned away staring out the glass wall of his cabin the city glowing loud, ruthless, impatient as he thought about everything like it used to be

"he changed" aviraj said for a moment

"overnight, with no explanation nothing"
Dhruv's voice dropped

"or maybe you weren't listening carefully"

Aviraj laughed once but bitter and hollow looking down

"I don't do half loyalties"

Kabir sighed

"neither does vivaan you both were not right or wrong at your own place"

Aviraj finally spoke quieter than before

"he didn't fight Kabir... he didn't speak he just walked away"

Dhruv pushed off the table

"and you didn't go after him"

The words hung there for a moment as the three discussed the past that they all have suffered

Aviraj straightened gaining his composure mask sliding back into place eyes cold

"whatever, its over now"

Dhruv exchanged a look with Kabir

"maybe but-"

Kabir added lightly

"you both know its not neither for him nor for you"

Aviraj didn't respond just looked outside

The city moved on but the inside old wounds quietly refused to stay buried
Kabir was the first one to break silence

"theek hai ye chord"

he said walking to the side of the table and picking up a glass of water

"abb thoda dimag use karte hai ticket thali mei saj ke toh milne nahi wala"

Dhruv nodded already switching to work mode

"we have to create your party image, increase public presence, media appearance" he said

"and ground work or numbers toh tere sahi hi hai"

Aviraj stood near the window

"we have to increase the numbers" he said

"district reports, beneficiaries, fund utilisation - everything will be compiled no loophole should be remained"

Kabir walked over and held water out in front of him

"pehle ye pee or thoda shaant kar apne ubalte khaulte dimag ko"

Aviraj didn't even look at the glass

"no" he said curtly making Kabir confused
Kabir frowned holding in there a second longer

"abe paani hai zeher nahi"

Aviraj's jaw tightened knowing if he says the reason for not drinking they will definitely not leave any chance to provoke him

"bola na nahi chahiye"

Dhruv glanced up from his phone suspicious and curious now

"paani hi toh hai lunch bhi nahi kiya hai pee le"

Kabir tilted his head narrowing his eyes suspicious now

"itni ghamaasan meeting ke baad naa paani naa khana upar se-"

"ek minute ek minute" Kabir said as if realising something

"tune aaj apni coffee bhi nahi pii meeting ke baad"

Aviraj finally snapped his eyes toward him sharp warning

"Kabir"

Dhruv froze mid scroll

Slowly very slowly his eyes lifted from phone to aviraj's face which was looking as if he was trying hard to hide something

Then he saw the untouched glass
Then back to aviraj

"-coffee bhi nahi?" he repeated tone changing

Kabir's eyes widened a fraction
He straightened

Then leaned closer like a detective smelling scandal

"wait"

He squinted eyes harder at aviraj making aviraj look at him with "are you serious" expression

"subah bhi nahi" Kabir said circling around aviraj like a detective investigating a critical case

Dhruv enjoying it joined in circling around aviraj with dhruv

"meeting ke pehle bhi nahi-" dhruv continued with a smirk on his face

"Or abb paani bhi nahi" Kabir completed and both looked at him suspiciously as if ready to reveal his secret

Aviraj being done just shook his head

"pagal ho dono crime nahi kiya hai maine mann nahi hai-" as she was saying Kabir cut him off by saying

"accha bade mann badal rahe hai tere aajkal" he said

Avirak looked away and that was mistake number one

"ohhhh" dhruv said deliberately exaggerating

Then his mouth curved into the most evil grin

"OOOOOOHHHHH"

Aviraj exhaled sharply already done with them

Dhruv leaned back crossing his arms

"tu bhi?"

Aviraj turned back to the window

"don't start"

Kabir burst out laughing finally placing the glass on the table

"haantho mei pooja ki thaali aayi raat suhaag wali"

he singed teasing and enjoying fully while acting as if shyly breaking fast while watching moon

Dhruv chuckled shaking his head

"hmm first karwa Chauth raj" he teased

Aviraj didn't answer he stayed rigid near the window shoulders straight expression unreadable but they caught it

Because just beneath his jawline a faint warmth crept in not obvious not dramatic but the way he pressed hip lips together while looking down and rubbing the bridge of his nose

Kabir still laughing bending forward hands on his knees

Aviraj finally snapped a glare

"Kabir"

Dhruv leaned back on the sofa amused but softer

Aviraj muttered jaw tight

"focus on work"

Kabir nodded exaggeratedly

"bilkul bilkul bass ek sawal"

he leaned in voice dropping mischief

"ghar jaane ka plan hai yaa yahi khade khade apni noor ki yaadon mei vrat todega"

Aviraj just glared at him as if ready to throw him out of the window

"Kabir"

Kabir raised both hands

"okay okay I am done" he said still trying to suppress his laughter

Dhruv smirked

"waise usse pata hai jiske liye vrat Rakha gaya hai"

Aviraj cut him off quietly deadly calm

"kaam par dhyan do dono meri biwi or mujh par nahi" he said voice firm but the tip of his ears and his neck turning faint red
And Kabir being Kabir leaned back comfortably

"chal karwa Chauth ne tujhe neta se pati toh banaya" he said smugly

Aviraj didn't respond he just stared at the file in his hand but his mind wandering elsewhere only

"uske liye toh pata nahi kya kya banne ko taiyar ho jau" he thought remembering kaashvi's smile, her blush the way she laughs freely everything about her constantly settling in his head

He just stared- serious controlled but his blush betraying exactly where his mind was

Dhruv shut his phone now and stood up all teasing gone voice practical but gentle

"tujhe jaana chahiye abb" he said firmly

"waise hi naraz karke aaya hai chaand aane se pehle mana liyo"

Kabir nodded instantly surprisingly serious for once

"haa raj" walking closer

"kya pata hum jaldi chacha tau ban jaaye" he said voice mischievous making dhruv chuckle and aviraj smack his head

"there's still-" aviraj was about to say

"kuch nahi" dhruv cut in

"everything will be done tomorrow"

Kabir folded his arms raising an eyebrow

"aur waise bhi" he smirked lightly

"ticket jeetke kya fayda jub biwi se pita hua dikhega chal jaa"

Aviraj looked at them and sighed knowing well he should leave she was angry he knows, on top of that she is fasting that means more worse situation angry and hungry

"ek toh gussa upar se bukhi mujhe hi naa pakaade aaj" he murmured rubbing his forehead with his fingers

Dhruv and Kabir looked at each other being amused seeing the man who didn't cared or gets worried easily was simply afraid of thinking what will his wife do to him the man who stands tall in a meeting room was not nervous on facing a woman

Dhruv shook his head exchanging looks with kabir

"jaa abb" he said calmly

Aviraj exhaled through his nose long and controlled grabbed his keys and coat from the table irritation mixed with something close to worry

"tu nahi aa raha?" aviraj asked dhruv walking towards the door

"no I will come later with Kabir" he said making aviraj nod

Kabir walked alongside him till door

"sun" he said tone teasing but pointed

"ego ko ghar ke bahar chord ke jaiyo warna woh tujhe paani pilane se pehle ussi chullo bhar paani mei dooba degi"

Aviraj stopped for half a second rolled his eyes at him making Kabir laugh and dhruv shake his head

Aviraj leaves behind the laughing dhruv and Kabir as the door closed behind him
Kabir leaned against the table grinning wide

"party sambal lega" he said satisfied

"biwi sambhalne mei haalat kharab hori hai"

Dhruv smiled knowingly

"kisi ke liye toh pighal raha hai"

The city blurred past the windshield as aviraj drove street lights sneaking into long lines of white

The car was silent no calls, no music just the low hum of engine and his thoughts loud and relentless

Her face slipping into his mind

Her smile, her blush, her frustration even her anger and irritation

The way she softly held his wrist as if silently claiming and he loved every bit of it knowing she cares

His jaw tightened for a moment knowing she was sad even angry they way she went silent, stepped back and nodded not saying or asking anything further

"I didn't ask her if she wanted me to stay"

he thought and sighed realising he was wrong and she has every right to be angry

The steering wheel creaked under his grip

Her thought running in his mind- hungry, waiting for him, annoyed, pretending she wasn't affected yet silently cursing him rolling her eyes

The road curved ahead quieter now
Aviraj slowed the car a little one hand resting on the wheel other tapping against it

He remembered her rants, her voice

"hadd hoti hai kisi neta se bolte mujhse shaadi karo"

His lips twitched

He could almost see her- sitting there, legs folded arms flying dramatically eyebrows furrowed, voice rising as she complained like the world's most furious most adorable storm

A breathy scoff escaped him before he could stop it shaking his head

"pagal ladki"

he muttered remembering her words

"meri puri duniya ulti seedhi karke bol rahi hai farak nahi padta" he thought

His chest loosened in a way it hadn't all day

And then came the softer but chaotic part

"aise kaise honge bacche"

For a moment he just thought he knows she was just ranting saying without thinking and their relation, life together was not at that level never in his dreams he can force her or see her sacrificing her dreams for something like this

His throat tightened but an image formed in his mind

A little girl with kaahsvi's eyes and smile big, expressive, full of emotions

Kaahsvi's chaos mixed with his restraint

A child who would argue like her and stare like him

Who would change his world

His grip of steering wheel softened

"someday" the thought came quietly not demanding not rushing

But he shook his head as if guilty for thinking he have never ever thought something like this to have a family like this - his children with her

But as if reality hit him he stopped the thought right there for him she is still a girl chasing her dreams, working hard and no matter what he cant let this come in between her path even if its him or their marriage he cant let it affect her future or career

He exhaled shaking his head with the faintest smile

"she has no idea" he murmured to the empty car

"how deep she runs into me"

The car slowed down and came to halt near the signal as the light turned red

Aviraj leaned back slightly eyes lifting to the signal ahead but then unintentionally drifting to the side of the road

A small vendor sat there on the footpath
A wooden basket in front of him filled with glass bangles shining brightly - red, maroon, greens and beside them strings of fresh gajra, white mogra threaded neatly
Something inside aviraj stilled as he looked at them

His gaze lingered on the bangles longer than he meant to

Without thinking much he parked the car on side, opened the door and stepped out
The vendor straightened immediately as aviraj walked to him

"konsi dikhau beta" the old man asked
Aviraj walked closer eyes scanning the tray with quiet intensity as if this mattered more than any meeting today

"red" he said

The vendor nodded quickly selecting and showing different sets

"biwi ke liye?" he asked already smiling
Aviraj didn't answer but nodded observing the shining glass bangles

His fingers brushed the bangles as they chimed softly

He imagined them on her wrists the way she talks with her hands more than her mouth

"size kya hoga beta?" the vendor asked catching aviraj off guard

For a moment he froze

Size. He didn't know that

He looked at the row of bangles his mind suddenly confused

Before he could answer he thought of her
Kaashvi's hand in his as he looked down in his hand

Small, warm

Her fingers curling instinctively around his the way they always did when she wasn't thinking like it was the most natural thing
He remembered how her palm disappeared inside his how his thumb rested perfectly over her knuckles

His jaw softened his voice did to as he tried to explain

He cleared his throat and looked back at the vendor choosing his words slowly carefully as if explaining something sacred trying to show by his hands

"choti si hai" he said quietly almost to himself

"par mere haanth mei uska haanth poora aa jaata hai"

The vendor blinked for half a second

"naa zyada choti or zyada badi toh bilkul bhi nahi" he tried to explain

The vendor smile

"samaj gaya beta" he said pulling out a smaller size of red glass bangles and a few heavy gold ones making a perfect set

"ye li jiye" he said handing it to aviraj

"aur gajre bhi" aviraj added

The vendor handed him two strings still cool and fragrant

Aviraj took the carefully almost softly like they were fragile promises

He paid the vendor and went from there
Sliding into his car he placed the bangles and the gajra on the passenger seat gently

The car moved forward a faint smile touching his lips

"bhaut bolti ho" he murmured thinking about hr

"par tumhe suune bina abb raha bhi nahi jaata"

----

The house glowed in a soft sacred hush as it was evening time for the katha the living room had been transformed- flowers hanging, faint fragrance of agarbatti and flowers floating in air

A mattress with white sheet was spread on the floor where the women sat in semi-circle dressed in reds, maroons, deep pinks
bangles clink softly in every moment

Kaashvi sat among them

Her saree's pallu covered her head properly, her chooda clinking while anklets chiming whenever she moved, the dark stain of her mehendi adoring her hands her mother in law sat beside her calm and composed guiding her through everything

Ayra and advik who were bored now sat far away from the group drowned in their own works while a few elderly woman nodded as the katha continued and the story unfolded

"iss tarah veeravati ne apni bhakti se mrityu ko bhi rok diya..."

The elder woman recited her voice steady and practised

Kaashvi listened quietly and carefully

She held her thaali in her lap sindoor, diya, a small glass of water, other items
everything arranged neatly and decorated

Her fingers rested on the edge of the plate bangles brushing against her wrist
Around her woman exchanged knowing smiled some glancing at her

"nayi Dulhan hai" one of them whispered softly

"pehla karwa Chauth hota hi khaas hai"

Kaashvi's cheeks warmed but she kept her gaze solely on the katha book in her hand

The voice of katha grew steadier slower each word shrinking deeper into the room also into her

She sat straighter without realising it her eyes fixed on the woman narrating the story but mind taking everything in

"prem aur vrat sirf kartavya nahi" the voice said

"ye toh vishwaas hai, samarpan hai"

Something settled inside kaashvi

For the first time the day her mind stopped racing

She just listened

Not just story but what it actually meant

Love that didn't ask for comfort

Devotion that didn't wait for perfect circumstances

A choice made every day- her devotion when it was hard, confusing, incomplete but she kept going with her belief that one day she will be with her husband

The devotion and belief with which she saved him from death

Kaashvi's gaze lowered to the thaali in her lap

She thought of aviraj

Of his silence that often hid a lot
Of the way he carried responsibility like armour

The way despite everything- her being all chaotic and not so good with him, the forced marriage, the distance- but he never ever made her feel small like he didn't care if he wanted he could have done far more worst but he treated her with respect, always made sure of her comfort, even when she thought her career was over he made sure it wasn't, and somehow he made sure her life didn't turn hell by saving her from that jay and his family

She realised something then quietly without drama

Love or relation weren't always soft conversations and long evenings

Sometimes it was patience, support, respect

Sometimes it was showing up late but still showing up

Sometimes it was knowing what other one needs without asking just knowing without announcing

Her throat tightened

"maine bhi toh kabhi unse nahi pucha kuch" she thought

"or who bina bole sab karte rahe"

Fasting wasn't just a tradition or duty now
It wasn't about proving anything to the world

It was her choice- for him

To stay, to learn him, to not give up and walk beside him even when the path felt uneven

Her fingers curled slightly over the edge of the plate as if grounding herself

"no matter what" she decided

"I will be with you avi even in silence, even if everything feels overwhelming, even if I have to fight the world standing beside you"

Her eyes softened a calm resolve replacing the earlier ache

In her heart she knew she have chosen, she knew what it means and she was ready to be with him- fully, completely, devoted

As the katha and all the rituals ended the room relaxed into soft chatter - bangles clinking, woman discussing random things as now everyone waited for the moon to show up any time and as everyone was celebrating karwa Chauth at singh mansion only everyone's husband was already there talking to their wives, laughing smiling

Kaashvi still sat quietly her calm a little fragile, eye lowered but going towards the entrance from time to time

"where is he kanha jii" she thought growing impatient

Ayra noticed it instantly

She nudged advik leaning toward him
Whispering out of the corner of her mouth

"Bhabhi ko dekh"

Advik followed her gaze

"hmm subah se aisi hi ho rakhi hai and now everyone is here but bhai .." he said voice soft

Ayra's lips curved

"I have an idea"

She casually slipped her phone out and connected it to a portable speaker fingers moving fast

Advik caught the glint in her eyes and raised a brow

"kya planning hai" he murmured

Ayra didn't answer she just nodded toward the speaker kept in the corner

"thoda mood set karte hai apni Bhabhi ka" ayra whispered

Advik's grin widened as he nodded

"aaj dikhate hai talent" he said rubbing his hand together

A second later the music started

The fast beats of song echoed in the hall as ayra and advik walked towards kaashvi while dramatically moving and clapping

Advik whooped out loud sliding in with full Punjabi energy shoulders bouncing knees bending as he did the classic bhangra step
Ayra didn't miss a beat

She flicked he wrist upward spun on her heel, one hand on her waist the other tracing the air dramatically like she was presenting kaashvi to the universe

mere veer ne mere veer ne viyahke leyandi

ni Bhabhi meri hoor wargi

they pointed on kaashvi on the word hoor
the lyrics started as they went towards her ayra dramatically gestured rounding her hand around kaashvi's head as if removing evil eyes

ohdi chaal na ohdi chaal na kise toh jhalli jandi
ni Bhabhi meri hoor wargi

as the lyrics continued advik walked acting like a girl's walk making everyone laugh
kaashvi looked at them startled and surprised

"aree-"

The room froze for half a second but then everyone clapped and smiled seeing them

"tum dono na" kaashvi muttered trying to suppress a smile

Mukh ohda jape jiwein chaudavi da chand ni

Ni Bhabhi meri hoor wargi

ayra clapped twice loud she started with her shoulders as she gestured towards kaashvi's face gracefully making her blush her expression full drama lips mouthing the lyrics

they both circled and twirled around her
the room burst into laughter

they lifted kaashvi's hand gently making her clap to the rhythm

slowly they pulled kaashvi with them to the centre

mere veer ne vyhake leyandi
Bhabhi meri hoor wargi

ayra danced on one side elegant teasing while advik on other side goofy and dramatic and kaashvi in middle looking at them while smiling and clapping slowly
something softened in kaashvi's eyes as she looked at them knowing they both are doing this with her

they circled around her giving her the main character treatment well, laughing and smiling making her centre of everything their moments framing her protecting her celebrating her

"chalo dono ki nautanki se kaashvi khush lag rahi hai" chachi ji said

"hmm mai abhi aayi" Priya said and moved towards them rounding a few notes over the head of all three while smiling

For a moment there was no waiting no sadness no anxiety

Just music, laughter

As their dance ended and song slowed that's when one of the elder ladies said eyes twinkling

"arey abb ek dance nayi Dulhan ka bhi toh banta hai?"

She said loudly enough for the room to hear as everyone started cheering and clapping

A ripple of agreement followed immediately

"haan bilkul!"

Kaashvi froze looking at everyone not knowing what to do but of course she was excited it was dancing

"arrey nahi its her fast thak jayegi"

her mother in law said being understanding walking towards her

"its your choice no need to feel pressured" she assured

"dance hi toh hai i want to" she said excitedly

Her mother in law smiled with amusement while nodding

Ayra softly nudged her

"dikhado Bhabhi apna jalwa" she teased and kaashvi smiled while whispering the song in ayra's ear

Advik clapped loudly cheering loudly

"bhabhiiii bhabhii"

The room burst into laughter as everyone watched her with anticipation

Kaashvi looked around at her mother in law and chachi who nodded while giving thumbs up all the ladies nodded encouragingly

The music started softer, romantic teasing as she stepped forward slowly

Choodi maza naa degi kangan maza naa dega

Tere bagair saajan saawan maza naa dega

At first it was just hr hands- delicate wrist moments bangles chiming softly

Then her shoulders loosened feet following the rhythm

She danced gracefully

The room went quiet - watching her

Her expression is talking- soft longing, quiet devotion.

She lifted her hands slowly wrists close to her face as she turned them gently almost like she was testing the truth of lyrics to herself

Haye re haye kangan maza naa dega
Tere bagair saajan saavan maza naa dega

Her fingers brushed her bangles again the time with intention as if asking a silent question

Her feet moving in small measured steps no rush no flair

Dil pe naa zulm karna mar jaygei ye jogan
Baahe bina toh teri joban maza naa dega

Her eyes lifting toward the door instinctively as if waiting

She pressed her palm to her heart then extended it outward fingers opening slowly an offering that remained unanswered

She smiled though her mind was screaming for him but with a gentle spin she ended it and the song faded

For a moment everyone looked at her and then clapped loudly

Her mother in law smiled pride and emotion mingling in her eyes

"bahu toh bhaut pyari hai aapki Priya jii"
one lady said kaashvi just smiled

The claps grew louder warm, approving women smiling, teasing

Kaashvi smiled back

Yet her eyes drifted just once towards the entrance

Empty

As everyone appreciated her and clapped kaashvi smiled at everyone but the one it was for wasn't even their to see it making her chest tightened

But unknown to her he did

He watched everything, he observed her every move

Not just dance but the way her smile hesitated the way her eyes searched with a hope

Earlier aviraj entered the entered the house from backdoor knowing hall was filled with woman doing rituals he didn't want to interrupt

The distant sound of music reached him first as he heard the name being called by everyone and advik cheering loudly for her

He stopped not consciously his feet just did
As he stepped closer the voices faded replaced by the soft rhythm of bangles, anklets and a song that hit him uncomfortably to his chest

And then he saw her from afar

Kaashvi stood in the centre surrounded by woman the air heavy with incense and devotion she was dressed beautifully her red saree draped perfectly her bangles filled hands, the sindoor at her hairline the faint glow on her face

He just looked at her...getting lost in her
She was dancing not loud not dramatic just graceful

He looked at her every rhythm, every moment her eyes shining,

He leaned against the wall without realising it eyes locked on her like the rest of the world dimmed

His eyes followed her every gaze and moment the way she looked at the entrance - his chest constricted

He knew she was still waiting

She was looking for him

Her saree pallu following her like it didn't want to let go and for a moment aviraj envied the fabric

She pressed her palm to her heart and extended it out

And he forgot how to breathe
This woman - angry but fasting for him still praying for him

She was choosing him she wasn't letting the sadness swallow her brightness

By the time she finished he was gone- gone into her

Into the way her eyes looked, longed but refused to break

Into her strength wrapped in softness
In that moment he knew nothing else mattered more than her

And for the first time since the hectic day he felt his war stopped because he had already found his home

He looked down at the bangles in his hand and the gajra and quickly taking out the phone he dialled advik's number

"hello bhai kaha ho Bhabhi-" advik started saying but was cut off

"I have reached but tu usse balcony par bhej and make sure no one else comes for sometime" he instructed knowing what he has to do

Advik being confused furrowed brows but then smirked

"okay waise romantic hore ho bade hmm hmm" he teased but aviraj already
disconnected the call making advik frown

"hadd hai mujhse kaam karao or mujhe hi akad dikhao" he muttered moving towards kaashvi

As everyone was waiting for moon now kaashvi sat chin resting on hand

"intehaaa ho gayi intezaar ki" advik sang coming towards her

"aayi naa koi khabar mere yaar ki" ayra continued smiling mischievously

Kaashvi glared at them smacking both of their heads

Just then dhruv and Kabir entered talking about something as they saw everyone and then kaashvi sitting with ayra and advik eyes burning with rage teeth gritting in annoyance now

"ye raj aaya nahi kya abhi tak" dhruv muttered to Kabir

"apni balli dene ko khud taiyar hai" Kabir said as they walked towards them

"raj kaha hai" dhruv asked being confused

Kaashvi looked at them with excitement and stood up looking around and behind them and to her bad he was still not there

"jahanum mei hai aapke raj narkasur kahike" she said being irritated now eyes flaring

Kabir and dhruv looked at ayra and advik who just shrugged in return

"maamla risky hai" Kabir whispered to them

"arre Bhabhi aap balcony par jao maa ne bola tha chaand dekhlo aaya yaa nahi"

advik said and kaashvi just looked at him and nodded while moving towards the balcony

While the other 4 stood there
"ye raj ko jaan pyaari nahi hai kya abhi tak naho aaya" Kabir said

"arre aa gaye hai balcony mei hi hai abb bass dhyaan rakho koi balcony mei jaake bhai Bhabhi ke romance ka live telecast naa dekhle" advik said making everyone else understand and nod

The laughter behind her slowly blurred into noise

Kaashvi slipped away quietly arms folded as she stepped into the roof the night air was cooler here, calmer like it knew she needed it

She rested her elbows on the railing chin propped on her hand eyes lifted towards the sky

Still no moon and no husband

City lights blinked below distant horns soft chatter from neighbouring balconies husband with their wives yet everything felt paused for her suspended and waiting

Just like her

She exhaled slowly

"kyu karte ho aise" she muttered looking down

She closed her eyes for a second and imagined him standing somewhere far away shoulders tense the familiar crease between his brows when he was thinking something probably annoyed pretending he didn't care

A small smile touched her lips despite herself

"narkasur kahike" she murmured softly to night almost fond unknowingly her eyes turning slightly moist

Her smile faded just as quickly
She looked up again eyes searching the sky with quiet devotion

"aa jao na abb" she whispered arms folded around her shivering a little due to the cold air as she slowly rubs her arms

As she stood there footsteps soft deliberate approached from behind so quietly they blended into the nigh

She didn't hear him lost in her own thoughts

But then as if she felt him

Warmth settled over her shoulders first unexpectedly protective. A shawl draped around her slowly carefully as if the person behind her was afraid ven the slightest hurry might break the moment

Kaashvi froze for a moment her breath hitched

The touch was steady, familiar, unmistakably sent a shiver through her spine that had nothing to do with the cold

Aviraj ...she knew it

She didn't turn she couldn't

His arms wrapped the shawl around her not touching her not yet

Her fingers curled into the fabric of the shawl as if holding herself together

Her head bowed on instinct lashes lowering as finally the tears spilled over silent and unrestrained even if she doesn't want them to but she couldn't control now

"noor" finally she heard his voice low, calm, as if guilty

"avi" her voice broke before she could even from the words

She just looked down tightly clutching the shawl

Aviraj stood close not close enough she could feel his presence like solid grounding

He adjusted the shawl around her making sure it covered her properly his knuckles brushing her arms ever so lightly

He chest hurt seeing her like this turned away, eyes spilling those tears he hated on her and for first time she was not controlling she was making him see her tears

"I am here, baby"

he said quietly voice low reassuring his hands gently rubbing her arms

Her breath stuttered at the word, his voice- soft, careful nothing like the man world saw

She squeezed her eyes shut

She doesn't know what was happening why was she crying all she knows was she was waiting and everything felt so overwhelming and he was here finally

Kaashvi shook her head once a small helpless movement, tears slipping down faster now. She stared at the floor of the roof refusing to look up afraid if she did, she will fall apart completely

"aap..." she whispered voice trembling accusation and relief tangled together

"bhaut bure ho"

Her shoulders shook despite her effort to stay composed

Aviraj's jaw tightened at the sight of her tears his hands pausing for half a second on her arms

He finally stepped in closing the distance he had been respecting too carefully his chest brushed her back not trapping just being there solid, warm, real

Slowly hesitantly as if asking permission without words he lifted his arms and rested it over her folded arms anchoring her
She didn't pull away

Her shoulders sagged the moment his arms settled around her the strength she had been holding finally giving away a small broken sound left her throat as she leaned back into him without turning

"I know" he murmured voice low controlled but strained underneath

"I know I messed up"

She finally turned her face looking up at him behind her

He looked at her eyes glossy, lashes wet, face and eyes slightly red her lips trembling

And in that moment, all the power all the audacity he carried outside meant nothing the only thing he saw was her pain and only thing he wanted was to make it stop

Aviraj closed his eyes for a moment jaw tightening as if he was holding himself
His hand coming up hand resting on her clasped fingers on the shawl cover them completely softly brushing her knuckles with his thumb

"I wait" she said voice trembling with hurt more than anger

"Always and its fine but aaj thoda toh bol dete kuch toh batate"

She looked down again her tears slid onto his hand

Slowly he leaves her arms turning her around by her shoulders softly to face him as he looked down at her

His thumb softly brushing her cheeks wiping the tears

"I know I mess up I don't know how to say things" he admitted low and rough

"But that doesn't mean I don't think of you every damn minute"

She looked up at him slowly lifting her eye lids

Cupping her face gently in his hands he looked in her eyes

"I am ready to try for you I know I mess up but..." he paused for a second

"- but I won't stop trying, if you want....I can be on my knees for your forgiveness"

The words came out sloe deliberate like a promise he was craving into himself

His thumb stayed warm against her cheeks steadying her as if holding them both together, he didn't rush her just waited

"I don't know how to do grand gestures" he continued voice low almost bare

"I don't know how to soften things with pretty words" his jaw flexed once

"But if efforts count...then I am already yours, baby"

He breath hitched

She searched his face looking for excuses, defences, distance

There was none

Just honesty, raw and unpolished

"kabhi kabhi I feel you think she is strong and can manage isliye chord dete ho" she whispered

"But I want to be a partner"

That did it

Aviraj tightened his hold just a little not crushing not desperate but protective certain he bent slightly his forehead hovering above hers as they both closed their eyes breath warm against her skin

"You are strong... strongest but you don't have to be strong with me" he said firm now

"You are the best partner"

He opened his eyes and looked into hers

"I am here, noor" he repeated softly than before

"And I am not going anywhere"

"Not today. Not ever"

He said voice determined

For the first time they both actually talked, speaking their hearts out and it felt like everything was bloomed again

That pulled a fragile watery smile from her

She slowly leaned forward keeping her head over his chest his heartbeat fastened for a moment breath hitched

But slowly her caressed her hairs

He held her their arms finally closing around her properly this time no hesitation no space left between them

He forehead resting against his chest just near his heart- fast

For a man who controlled rooms and negotiations his heartbeat betrayed him completely when it came to her

One of his hands slid up fingers threading into her hair with a tenderness he kissed her forehead slowly lingering like he was sealing something sacred

Slowly kaashvi forwards her palm in front of him between them he looked at her and then at her hands with furrowed brows

"kanhaji wala promise?" she said looking at him with eyes filled with emotions

He looked down at her hand and then at her

With a small smile shaking his head he placed his hand in hers pulling her in his arms

"yes" he murmured into her hair voice softer than she have ever heard

She nodded slightly against him eyes closed breathing him in like she had been holding her breath the whole day

"Today was an important meeting" he said not as justification but truth he should tell her about everything in his life

"For upcoming elections" he completed

She looked up at him chin resting on his chest

"pehle batate na" she said looking up at him

He looked down to see her leaning completely on him as he held her, her chin resting on his chest as she looked up at him

He slowly caressed her cheek with his thumb

"I know" he nodded once firmly

"that's on me"

She looked up at him giving a soft smile

"I don't need perfect" she said eyes shining but steadier now

"Just your presence"

His grip tightened just a fraction

"You have me" he replied without hesitation

"poora"

She smiled

"and you have me" she said

"poore ka bhi poora"

He chuckled at her words looking down at the girl- his wife who have completely turned his life in a best possible way he knew about feelings, emotions but never ever he thought he would feel like this for a girl - his girl it was always family and work for him but today she was here in his arms and everything felt completed

Aviraj slipped his hand into hic pocket

Kaashvi felt his grip tightened around her fingers as he gently lifted her hand, she looked at him confused

He lifted his hand with the bangles

Red with the gold one thin, delicate shining

Her breath hitched

"ye-" she whispered surprise spilling into her voice

He didn't looked at her right away his focus was on her hand steady and careful as he slid the bangles slowly and gently over her fingers

He paused adjusting her fingers gently so it wouldn't hurt his touch unhurried

She just looked at him

"size theek hai?" he murmured more to himself than to her

"perfect" she said looking at him who was concentrated fully on making her wear the bangles

One by one bangles slipped into place settling against her wrist with soft chime the sound making her smile

She chimed them slowly being excited

"kaisi lag rahi hai?" she asked showing him her hand while clinking the bangles

He just looked at her smiling even the smallest of his gesture made her this happy

He took her hand softly lifting it bringing near his lips he kissed over the bangles making her breath hitch

"sabse pyari"

He muttered looking at her

Before she could respond he showed her the string of gajra - fresh and fragrant

Her eyes widened as she looked at them

"pehna du?" he asked slowly

She nodded turning for him to make her wear

He stepped closer lifting his hand to her hair his fingers brushing her nape making her clutch the fabric pf shawl his breath falling on her neck

Slowly he tucked the gajra in palce using a few clips in her hairs the jasmine scent bloomed instantly between them

Kaashvi inhaled her smile breaking fully now

"thank you" she said turning around looking at him

He stepped closer cupping her face in his hand softly

"anything for you"

As they stood there her back to his chest the cold railing of the roof beneath her palms his presence warm and solid behind her like a shield

Aviraj's hand were on the railing too one of either side of her caging her in without trapping her letting her exist fully in that space he crated just for her

She leaned back instinctively her shoulders brushing his chest trusting him completely

The city stretched below them- soft lights, distant horned

Above them the sky was deep, endless patient

They looked up together

He lowered his head slightly his chin touching her head

She tilted her head just a little resting it against him

"I thought you wouldn't come you don't believe in god or all this"

she murmured still looking at the sky

He looked at her, face glowing eyes looking up as he exhaled slowly

"I believe in you does that counts"

he murmured his fingers shifting closer to hers brushing them then curling gently over her knuckles

She heard him surprised and amused but didn't say anything a comforting silence stretching between them and with shared warmth they waited

Almost after 15 minutes kaashvi head suddenly started hurting

"avii chaand kub aayega" she whined leaning against him more

He chuckled softly at her whining the sound low and warm against her hair

His grip on her hand tightened just a fraction thumb rubbing slow circles over her knuckles

"mera chaand toh yahi hai" he murmured voice laced with quiet teasing

"aayina laau?"

She froze for half a second

Then she turned her head just enough to look at him over her shoulder eyes narrowed despite the ache in her head lips twitching like she was trying not to smile

"bass bass zyada cheesy naa hoiye" she muttered bumping her forehead lightly against his chest in mock protest

"gussa hai hum abhi bhi hmm"

He smiled- actually smiled not the controlled one but the soft private kind meant only for her

Lowering his head his lips brushed near her temple not quite a kiss just close enough to be felt

"isliye toh" he said quietly

"aapko hasana zaroori hai"

She sighed the tension easing from her shoulders as she leaned fully into him letting her weight rest there.

His arms shifted instinctively one hand leaving the railing to rest at her waist not touching her skin but above the shawl covered region steadying her

"bhook lagi hai?" he asked the teasing fading concern slipping in

She nodded while pouting

"wait I forgot one thing" aviraj said suddenly turning kaashvi around making her confused

Kaashvi blinked confused brows knitting

"kya-?"

Before she could finish he stepped a little closer

His hand slipped into the pocket on his pants

Aviraj pulled out a small kohl box- black, simple

Kaashvi's breath hitched as she looked at it and then at him

Her lips turning into a small smile

He opened it calmly dipping his finger just a little then lifted his hand toward her

His touch was feathering light as he brushed her hair aside exposing the skin behind her ear

She froze for a moment

With delicate care he pressed a tiny black dot there - slow, sure

"humesha lagaoge kya jub bhi mai taiyar hou?" she asked while teasing

He looked at her with a soft smile

"humesha" he said as if silently promising

"meri noor par kisi ki nazar ka haq nahi"

Her lashes fluttered

Her throat tightened

She hadn't known she needed this this silent claiming, the tenderness, the protection until he did it

Suddenly they heard some noises as kaashvi looked forward a sudden ripple of excitement ran through her body

"avi-" she straightened instantly fingers tightening around his

"chaand"

He followed her gaze there it was

Soft, whit peeking through the clouds like It had been waiting for the right moment

Kaashvi's face lit up instantly all the hurt and fatigue forgotten she looked at the moon like an excited child looking for games while aviraj just looked at her with a small smile

The voices erupted behind them as everyone came with in second the terrace filled

Ladies hurried in with thalis

Her mother in law came forward, everyone gathered, laughter blending into cool air

Advik leaned against the railing arms folded eyes flickering between kaashvi and aviraj lips stretching into wicked grin

"batao bhai aaj toh chaand bhi aapki tarah late hai" he drawled

Ayra elbowed him lightly but smiling as much as she passed kaashvi's thaali to her

Dhruv stood beside Kabir

"kaashvi yaar tumne zinda kaise chord diya isko aaj" Kabir said with a mocking disappointed face making aviraj roll his eyes and kaashvi smile

Kaashvi felt her cheeks warm but she didn't step away just leaning slightly into him

He didn't move either

His hand rested steady at her back looking down at her his voice low only she could hear

"ready?"

She nodded eyes fixed on moon

"chalo kaashvi tum bhi vrat todo" her mother in law said and instructed her through every thing

The moon rose fully then- round, luminous, quiet in its blessing

Plates clinked softly, bangles chimmed

Kaashvi lifted her channi with slightly trembling hands

Her eyes looking at the moon first- steady, devoted then slowly she lowered it

And there he was

Standing right in front of her tall still, gaze locked on her like she was the only one there for him

Her breath caught

She looked at him through the sieve eyes soft she took a deep breath looking at him

He didn't rush her didn't say anything just looked at her - letting her have a moment

She lowered the channi taking the water glass from the plate she offered a little to the moon first her eyes close mind filled with devotion

Then opening her eyes slowly, she looked at him eyes shining her face glowing under the moon light

She kept the glass back on the plate now forwarding it slowly towards him

he instantly reached for the glass

his fingers wrapped around the glass steady and grounding

he lifted it slightly bringing it closer to her lips his other hand hovering at her elbow not touching but there to steady her

"aaram se" he murmured low enough only she could hear

Kaashvi looked at him once gaze soft yet obeyed

She took a slow slip

The water slid down her throat cool and relieving and with it came the sudden wave of weakness that follows a long fats her lashes fluttered involuntarily

Immediately his hand moved behind her firm this time

He placed his palm at her lower back anchoring her thumb pressing just enough to keep her steady

She gently left the glass nodding her head as if not wanting more

She exhaled shakily

He didn't move away didn't let go

"aur piyo you haven't since morning" he said voice firm but showing concern

Kaashvi whined

"bass na-" she tried but stopped seeing his serious expression

He tilted the glass again slowly letting her take another careful sip his eyes never leaving her face

Kabir ayra advik and dhruv looking at them knowingly while smiling

She pulled back slightly

"ho gaya abb"

He nodded keeping the glass back

"better?" he asked

She nodded

"hmm thoda"

His thumb brushed her wrist once

"lets go now khana khalo" he said voice firm ready to go but she stopped him holding his wrist making him and everyone confused

She made him stand infront again and slowly taking the glass again she held it up again

This time towards him

Aviraj blinked once genuinely caught off guard

"noor-" he started then stopped

She looked up at him eyes steady but moistened a little with quiet knowing

"aapko kya laga?" she said softly

"aapne kuch nahi khaya naa paani piya subah se mujhe pata nahi chalega?"

For a second the world around them blurred

The teasing the relatives everything

Just her and him

"waah raj tune bhi vrat Rakha hai" chachi ji teased while everyone looked at them with small smiles

His face instantly warmed up as he looked down then at her

"you knew?" he asked softly

"aap hi sab jaan sakte ho kya" she teased lowly making him smile

She nudged the glass little closer to his lips

Something in his expression softened unguarded almost vulnerable

Slowly deliberately he reached out - not taking the glass just steadying it where he fingers held it

Then slowly he tilted it making her confused and drank

Not much but enough

As she saw she gasped eyes widening a little seeing him taking sip from the same edge her lipstick had left faint mark

She looked at him her blush visible now

Ayra and advik gasped

"bhaiya ne jootha pii liya" advik said being shocked knowing aviraj doesn't share food or water

Dhruv and Kabir shrugged with smirking faces

For a heartbeat no one spoke

Her lips curved into the softest smile

Suddenly they heard a voice

"kaashvi pati ke pairr bhi chhoone hote hai"

one of the ladies said making kaashvi look around as she saw every lady bowing down touching their husband's feet

She was hesitant at first looked around then at her mother-in-law and chachi who shook their head at her signalling not to do it if she doesn't want to

"kaashvi beta you don't have to rituals are completed-" her mother in law was saying but the lady cut in again

"this is also a ritual Priya jii" she said

Then she looked at the same lady looking at her and the others waiting

Aviraj stood there about to say his jaw clenched blood boiling because of the nonsense tradition

But she just smiled held his hand

She loosened her fingers from his hand slowly heart pounding not out of belief not out of devotion but because all eyes were on her now

She bent not fully but enough

And before she could go down or her fingers could even brush against the fabric of his pant

Aviraj moved

Fast, instinctive, absolute

His hand shot forward gripping her wrist and shoulder firmly but gently stopping her mid motion the suddenness made a few women gasp some murmuring among themselves

"noor"

His voice low controlled but edged with something sharp

She looked up at him startled

He didn't let go instead he pulled her up fully standing up beside him his palm sliding into hers

"no"

One final word

A murmur rippled through the terrace

He turned slightly enough to address the space without raising his voic e

"meri biwi ye sab nahi karegi"

The same lady opened her mouth again

Aviraj's jaw clenched his eyes hardened not angry but dangerously calm

"apne pairr choone ke liye patni nahi banaya hai usse"

he looked down at her voice softening only for her

"tum mere Barabar ho, meri zimmedaari" he paused for a second

"meri saathi"

Her throat tightened as she looked at him

"sapne mei bhi mai tumhe apne se niche nahi dekh sakta toh abb ye kaise karne du?" he said voice soft

"devi bola hai apni tumhe devi jaise rakhne ka mauka toh do"

Her mother-in-law and aviraj's family members exhaled exchanging quiet looks

Aviraj lifted kaashvi's hand instead slowly brought to his chest pressing it over his heart

"yaha tak kaafi hai"

Her eyes filled not with tears but something warmer, stronger

"bhaiya aapko choone padenge Bhabhi ke pairr" advik teased making everyone chuckle

Kaashvi looked at advik being done but smiling

But before anyone could say anything he moved stepped closer only to bend

And then

He started to lower himself

Gasps rippled, someone sucked in a breath some whispering around

"avi-" kaashvi panicked eyes widened both hands instinctively grabbing his shoulder stepping back

The shock was visible open mouths widened eyes

"pagal ho matt karo" she whispered urgently making him stop holding his hand tightly to stop

"mai nahi choo sakti toh aap kyu?

Shaadi sath chalne ke liye ki thi jhukane ke liye nahi" she said making him stand

He didn't look at anyone else his eyes stayed on her steady

He stopped

Straightened slowly bringing himself back upto her level then leaned in just enough that only she could hear

"I don't need rituals to feel bigger" he murmured

"and my woman wont bow for anyone, not even for me"

"we stand equal" he said this time loud enough for everyone

"my saathi" she murmured lowly looking at him

"my saathi" he murmured back

As the rituals wrapped up and the terrace slowly emptied voices softened into relief and hunger

"chalo abb niche dinner is ready" someone announced

Everyone began moving towards the stairs light chatter, laughter coming from everyone

Kaashvi took a step forward and then another

And then just for a second the ground felt off her head started spinning for a moment but she quickly steadied herself holding aviraj's sleeves

"noor-" aviraj's hand was already there holding her firm

His arms came around her waist pulling her to him before she could stumble his expression worried an concerned

"I am fine" she murmured quickly

But he wasn't listening

He lowered his head slightly eyes scanning her face brows drawn tight with worry that refused to be hidden

"you are not" he said quietly

"you are tired"

He didn't ask he didn't wait

He shifted her weight fully into his side one arm secured around her other steadying her elbow

"we should go to hospit-" he was saying but she didn't let him complete

"arre I am fine abhi khana khayenge sab theek ho jayega" she said

Ayra turned back

"Bhabhi -"

"I am fine ayra tum chalo sab" she said again her voice soft but drained

Aviraj felt it

He slowed his pace without saying a word adjusting his hold so she wouldn't have to put all her weight on her feet

"maine bola tha na noor nahi rakho vrat waise hi itni si ho upar se aur girti padti rahogi toh-" he muttered not scolding but being concerned

She leaned closer her shoulder brushing his chest now

"chup kariye aap khud bhi toh Rakha hain na aapne aaye bade

'noor vrat matt rakho' she said mimicking him

He just looked at her being done

As they reached down to have dinner aviraj had just pulled out a chair for her

Dinner was laid out properly now warm rotis, sabzi, dal, sweets placed carefully

Everyone had finally settled, family, guests the noise soft and content hunger winning over teasing

Kaashvi took one step towards the table

And then-

Her stomach lurched- sharp and sudden

She froze for half a second eyes widening hand instinctively pressing to her mouth other to her stomach

There was no dizziness this time just nausea rising fast

"avi-" she whispered barely audible

Before anyone could register what was happening she turned and hurried away scandals slapping softly against the floor as she rushed towards their room

Aviraj looked at her suddenly running with palm on mouth

His instinct kicking his, concern taking over

"noor" he shouted voice worried

No response

He didn't sit or waited

Just ran behind her

As soon kaashvi reached the room she went straight to bathroom the door shut a little too hard

Kaashvi barely made it to the sink before she leaned over one hand gripping the edge the other pressed to her chest as she gagged

Her breath came uneven, eyes squeezing shut as waves of nausea hit again

She retched badly - dry, painful, exhausting

Tears welled instantly in her eyes

"shit.." she whispered hoarsely hating how weak she felt

The door opened behind her

Aviraj didn't speak he stepped shut the door softly

"leave...please" kaashvi breathed in between her nausea

He just stepped closer pulled her hair back with practised care holding both her saree's pallu and hair gathering in his hand so it wouldn't fall in her face

His other hand rested flat against her back- solid grounding

"lean" he said quietly

"its okay let it out"

Another wave came she gagged again body trembling her eyes shut her body giving up knees buckling as she knelt down on ground her tears flowing constantly

Aviraj seeing her felt something punching his gut but he can't do anything right now

He knelt beside her slowly removing hairs from her face rubbing her back

"I am sorry" she breathed between breaths embarrassed and drained

"I ..i don't know what-"

"don't" he cut in immediately firm but gentle

"don't apologise"

She just looked at him and then down her head spinning body giving up

He stood up first steady and calm then helped her up solely one arm firm around her waist the other bracing her elbow like she might slip any second

She swayed despite herself grip tightening in his shirt

"easy" he murmured holding her

He walked towards the basin with her opening the tap

"Slow breaths, baby" he murmured near her ear

"I have got you"

She nodded leaning down to was her face and rinse her mouth

"I will do this" she whispered slowly her voice drained and hoarse

He nodded holding her hair and saree tucking her hair back properly

As she was done washing everything properly, she leaned back trying to stand straight and breathe

She leaned back slightly forehead resting briefly against his chest eyes shut chest rising and falling unevenly

His hand stayed steady at her back thumb moving in slow circles like he was anchoring her lips hovering near her temple

His jaw tight not angry but worried

Never ever he has seen her like this and today after this he can't think of seeing her like this or even in slightest pain again the minutes she sat helplessly trying to catch breath felt like someone stabbing badly

"you felt like this before too?" he asked quietly

She nodded faintly

"why didn't you called me or tell anyone" his voice was low controlled but underneath it concern cracked through

She swallowed hard

"I thought it wasn't much and It wasn't this bad I didn't want to make a scene today"

He exhaled sharply through his nose resting his forehead briefly against the side of her head

"fuck creating a scene" he growled

"you matter more than anyone or any damn thing" he said

She took a mouth wash from the counter with shaky hands noticing it he held her hands gently guiding them as she rinsed

Aviraj watched her every moment alert, protective already calculating, already worried, refusing to leave her side

He guided he back to the room making her sit on the bed her knees weak and head still spinning

Before she could protest, he crouched again slipping off her sandals then straightened and sat in front of her an grabbed a glass of water from side table

"thoda sa?" he instructed holding the glass to her lip himself

She obeyed swallowing carefully the colour on her face still gone eyes glassy with exhaustion

Keeping the glass aside he sat beside her

"I will call dhruv-" he said about to stand up but before he could kaashvi stopped him

He sat there and she leaned forward keeping her forehead on his shoulder leaning closer eyes closed

"nahi please stay here" she said voice low

He just sat there exhaling deeply but nodded slowly reaching out and rubbing her back soothingly

They sat there leaning against him forehead against his shoulder eyes closed his hand cradle up the back of her head fingers threading to her hair while rubbing soothingly in between

"I feel bad" kaashvi muttered slowly voice low and breaking

She leaned into him fully now no resistance left cheek pressed against his chest

"shh it will be fine baccha" he said voice so soft

"you scared the hell out of me for a moment" he admitted

He pressed his lips to the top of her head not kissing just resting there grounding both of them

His hand moved slow steady circles against her back the kind that told her without words that he wasn't going anywhere

Her breath hitched she didn't cry loudly she just melted her arms slid around his waist clutching his shirt

She felt his chest rise as he took a deeper breath then his hand came up to cradle the back of her head properly this time

"if you ever feel like this again even the slightest bit of discomfort-"

he said gently but firmly lifting his head just enough to speak against her hair

"you will tell me if I am not with you, you will call me that instant, samjhi?"

She nodded against him

"no excuses, no guilt" he added

As they sat there suddenly the door creaked open kaashvi pulled back instantly flustered wiping her face

Ayra entered first walking to kaashvi eyes instantly scanning her pale face

"Bhabhi kya hua?"

Behind her came everyone- maa, chachi, advik, dhruv, Kabir, even aviraj's father and chachaji

A few guests accompanied too

"chakkar aaya beta?" one of the lady said

"fast ke baad ho jaata hai kabhi kabhi" other said

Her mother in law and chachi sat beside her holding her hand caressing her head

Aviraj stood up slightly straighter instinctively standing but beside her

Kaashvi nodded forcing a small smile

"bass thoda nauseous laga I am fine now"

Then-

One of the guest chuckled lightly eyes dancing with mischief

"arre arre" she said tilting her head knowingly

"lagta hai khush khabri hai"

The room went still

Everyone looked at each other and then at kaashvi and aviraj

Kaashvi's breath hitched

Her eyes flew to aviraj's wide, startled cheeks flushing instantly

Aviraj stood beside her holding her hand blinked once then twice not knowing how to react or what to say he just looked down

"nahi-" kaashvi tried to say then stopped

Ayra's mouth fell open

Kabir froze mid step but then smirked looking at aviraj

Dhruv coughed

"ye toh rocket se bhi tez nikla subah order shaam ko delivery"

Kabir muttered making ayra advik and dhruv stifled their laughter as aviraj glared at them

Aviraj cleared his throat jaw tightening ears visibly red

"woh" he said then stopped realizing how ridiculous it sounded to even explain

Kaashvi lowered her gaze fingers twisting the edge og her saree embarrassment creeping up her spine

She knew, he knew

They hadn't crossed that line not yet

"areee balle balle mai chacha banunga" advik shouted doing a weird step teasing aviraj

"aur mai buaaaa" ayra exclaimed

Kaashvi just watched them with wide eyes and then at aviraj as if silently asking

"ye kub hua?"

He looked at her rubbing his forehead as if silently saying

"mujhe khud nahi pata mai baap kaise bana"

"inhe kon bataye abhi tak ek kiss nahi hui hai" kaashvi thought

"hadd hai piche hi pad gaye meri bacchi-" aviraj thought

"meri biwi or bacchi ke" he thought again and shook his head again

"meri biwi ke" he corrected himself in his mind

"kub tak rahu sabse chota aaye koi mujhse chota"

advik sang dramatically making kaashvi wanting to bang her head as everyone laughed at his antics

Her mother in law looked at her, kaashvi immediately looked at her and shook her head sensing the awkwardness she sai d

"bass bass" she said gently but decisively

"aise mazak nahi karte fast ki wajah se hua hoga" she said making kaashvi sigh in relief

"aree haa Bhabhi ne kal momos or chaat bhi khayi thi na" ayra said remembering their market visit making everyone nod

Aviraj exhaled quietly then looked at her really looked at her

That was embarrassing

But beneath it something else a flicker of thought he hadn't allowed himself before something unspoken

Kaashvi felt it too

Their eyes met again this time softer hesitant a little shaken as they both quickly diverted their gaze

"accha chalo lets leave and let them rest" chachi jii said making everyone go

Her mother in law turned to kaashvi cupping her cheek softly
"tum dono aaram karo I will send the dinner here" she said

"mai medicines le aata hu kuch" dhruv said

And everyone left from there leaving the two of them in a complete awkward silence

Kabir advik and ayra stayed there

"bheem ki shakti dhoom machaye saamne koi tik naa paaye" advik sang making ayra and Kabir burst into laughter

Kabir shakes his head

"ye bheem se bhi age hai bhai konse laddu khaye thae raj"

Aviraj shot Kabir a glare sharp enough to slice steel

"niklo" he said flatly

Kabir grinned wider

"aree-"

Ayra grabbed advik and Kabir by arm already laughing

"bass chalo abb Bhabhi take care"

"chal chal" advik still hummed under his breath as ayra dragged them out

Kabir pointed two fingers at aviraj in mock salute

"take care raj bina ladoo ke bhi tu kaafi tez hai"

The door shut behind them laughter fading down the corridor

Silence dropped like a soft blanket

As aviraj ran his hands over his face being done with everyone

Kaashvi sat on the edge of the bed fingers twisting the fabric her cheeks still warm eyes lowered

He sat infront of her clearing his throat

"theek ho?"

She nodded faintly

"bass thoda dizzy"

He nodded

There was a silence between them before she spoke

"waise" she said softly

"khushkhabri?" she said with a mischievous voice

"neta jii aap toh bade tez nikle bina kuch kiye sab kar liya udte hue sperms leke paida hue hai kya?"

Aviraj blinked once

Twice

Then let out a short laugh- rare unguarded

"doctor sahiba" he said leaning back slightly eyes narrowing with mock seriousness

"ye jo tum pura din ulta seedha khati ho uska bacha hai ye"

She froze for half a second then burst out laughing

"accha jii?" she gasped immediately grabbing his hand dramatically and placing it on her stomach

"haw dekho dekho our momo is kicking"

She bounced slightly on bed

"dekhna pakka superman Banega with extra cheese"

Aviraj looked down at his hand on her stomach utterly helpless now but something inside him softened

His lips twitched

Then curved then he was smiling- properly eyes soft shoulders relaxing

"bass" he muttered shaking his head

"drama queen I am not letting you name my Babygirl momo"

He said but didn't pull his hand away instead his thumb moved unconsciously a slow protective arc

She snorted and laughed but then her eyes softened as she realised his words

"Babygirl? So you have thought about it" she said voice low but soft looking at him now

Getting caught off guard he looked down not knowing what to say or why he said the earlier thing but it came out naturally and before he could take his hand away, she kept hers over his lying on her stomach

He stilled

Not because of her hand over his

But because what it meant

For a man who plans everything, every word, every move this one had slipped out straight from somewhere unguarded

His jaw flexed once then he exhaled slow

"I didn't plan it" he said quietly honesty bare in his voice now

"it just..came, a little girl with your eyes and smile" he said with a small smile on his face

She watched his face the way his eyes softened without permission the way his thumb was still moving like he didn't even realize he was doing it

For the first time she has him this soft, this much open with his emotions that too for someone who isn't even there yet

"either girl" he added after a beat voice lower steadier

"or boy, it doesn't matter"

His gaze lifted to hers

"I just know-"

He paused

"I want to experience everything with you"

Her throat tightened

She didn't cry

She smiled- small sincere

He chuckled under his breath leaning forward a little

"bass abb for now there is nothing like this" he said now being serious voice firm but soft

"you have to study, start pg and focus on your career first"

She looked at him for a long second at the man who could be ruthless in rooms yet he was sitting here talking about her career before his wants

She nodded slowly

"I know" she said softly

"and I want that too I don't want to be someone who only belongs to a house or surname. I want to be...me"

His jaw eased, approval, pride in his eyes

"good" he said simply caressing her cheeks

"haa lekin I wont make our momo wait for a long time" she said as if complaining

He shook his head smiling

She laughed the sound lighter now healthier

"you should change now phir dinner karna hai" he said standing up

"mera mann nahi khane ka" she whined

"noor you haven't eaten since morning and medicine bhi leni hai" he said voice firm making her pout

Taking something from the dressing table he came by her side sitting in front of her making her confused

There was no rush in him just quiet careful focus like she was something fragile

She watched him as he unclasped her necklace his fingers slowly deliberate

He placed it aside carefully

Her bangles came next one by one sliding them carefully, thumb brushing her skin

She didn't pull away and didn't speak just let him

When he reached her ear ring his touch slowed even more removing them gently his fingers paused lingering near her jaw as he looked at her

Her eyes fixed on him while his fix on hers

A spark of sudden closeness fleeting between them

He leaned in before either of them could overthink it

Not hurried not demanding just instinctive

His lips brushed her cheeks slowly. A soft press that lingered for half a second longer than necessary

Then another just beneath it warmer this time. Familiar, reassuring

Kaashvi's breath hitched for a moment

He pulled back slightly his forehead resting against her temple his thumb still tracing a slow line along her jaw as if committing the feel of her skin to his memory

"bass itna hi" he murmured quietly low and controlled like he was holding himself back

"aaj ke liye"

She nodded eyes lowering lashes fluttering as if grounding herself

He reached for the cotton pad dipped in remover his movement slowed again

"karu?" he asked slowly

She hummed in response trusting tilting her face slightly toward him

He wiped her makeup away gently first her eyes then her cheeks never rushing never careless like she would break if he hurried

By the time he was done she looked bare, real, his

He looked at her face - natural, her bunny cheeks that lifts when she smiles her big amber eyes, the moles on her cheeks even her little acne or scars seems beautiful and perfect to him

He exhaled something in his shoulders finally easing

"tum change karlo" he said quietly helping her stand up carefully

She takes her clothes and goes inside the bathroom to change while in room aviraj takes dinner the maid brought from then when dhruv also came

"here medicines but dhyan rakhna iske baad she sleeps medicine thoda high dose ki hai" dhruv said

Aviraj nodded looking at the medicines

"she will be fine right?" he asked his voice firm but filled with concern

"yes its just food poisoning and weakness nothing much let her rest" dhruv said making aviraj nod

Aviraj waited for kaashvi to come as he himself also changed to a comfortable t- shirt and joggers

As she came out of the bathroom face washed, saree changed into top and pajamas she walked to him

He made her sit on the bed as he took the tray of food

Kaashvi looked at the food and then at him

"ajeeb lag raha sachi mann nahi hora" she said

"bass thoda sa khalo" he insisted voice soft she nodded as he makes her eat himself

He scooped a small bite held it near her lips waiting, patient, unhurried

She opened her mouth and took it

"good" he murmured like she was a child he didn't want to pressure

She sewed slowly eyes still on him

A little leftover smudged near her mouth before she could react his hand was already there without thinking he wiped it was with the sleeve of his t shirt

She blinked

"aree kya kar rahe hai shirt kyu gandi ki?"

"tumhare hontho se chua agar ganda ho toh woh kapda nahi khush naseebi hoga"

he said simply as If that explained everything

She just looked at him thinking what did she ever do to get a man like him

"lo" he said giving another bite

"aap bhi khao aapne bhi nahi khaya hai" she said now making another bite for him forwarding it near his mouth

"aree tum-" he said but she cut in between

"khaiye" she said firmly making him eat

Bite by bite they made each other eat talking about random things, he watched her face closely her breathing, her hands moving animatedly as she talked

Again his thumb brushed her lip this time gentler as she smiled

After a few bites she shook her head

"bass ho gaya"

He didn't argue set the plate aside then without asking he reached the for the glass held it to her lips as she drank

Finally after giving her medicines himself, he covered her properly

"aap toh aise kar rahe hai jaise mai koi bacchi hu" she said

"jis tareeke ki aapki harkatein hai beta mere liye aap wahi hai"

he said covering her making her pout as he was about to move she held his hand as if silently asking

He bent down

"mai yahi hoon"

he whispered tucking a strand of her hair behind as he came to his side of bed and slipped in sitting beside her as she looked at him

She lay back against the pillows eyes half lidded the room slightly tilting in her head the medicine had started doing its job a little too well

Aviraj sat beside her still holding her hand his thumb absent mindedly tracing slow circles on her skin

She squeezed his fingers eyes blinking in confusion

"avi" she muttered

"haan" he leaned closer instantly

She frowned as if thinking very hard then blurted

"aap kitne pyare ho" she said looking at him

He looked at her being confused and then remembered dhruv's words heavy dose medicines

He huffed a quiet laugh

"aur kuch diagnosis doctor sahiba?"

She nodded seriously now sitting up straightly

"haa aap na bilkul..." she stopped as if thinking

"haaa aap bilkul mere butter naan ho" she blurted while giggling and nodding

He raised an eyebrow trying to suppress his smile

"accha?"

"haan" she nodded very seriously looking at him now sitting cross legged infront of him

"bilkul soft garam or bina butter ke reh nahi sakti"

He looked at her being amused here he was a politician a businessman and she was comparing to a butter naan

He finally lost the battle with his expression a quiet laugh slipped out of him shoulders shaking slightly as he leaned back folding his arms

"wow" he said dryly

"mai butter naan, bacha momo or tum?"

She frowned tapping her finger against her chin as if thinking deeply

"haa avi aap butter naan mai daal makhani or humare honeymoon ke baad aayenge humare momo or tikki" she said being excited

He froze for a full second

Not blinking not breathing

Just stilled

"honey moon ke baad momo tikki?" he repeated slowly as if taking in the sentence eyes fixed on her

She nodded enthusiastically completely proud of her logic

"haa naa" she said waving her hand

"balance hona chahiye ek soft ek crunchy"

He stared at her then down then back at her

"bechare mere bacche" he muttered knowing she was not in senses but still

She pouted instantly

"haww aap mere sapno ka mazak uda rahe ho"

Before he could respond she leaned forward again fare too close eyes shining with misplaced seriousness

"waise avi" she whispered confidently

"papa banne ke baad aap na gussa kam karna warna momo darr jayega"

That did it

He looked at her a low laugh escaped him helpless this time he shook his head leaning forward resting his elbows on his knees rubbing his face like a man surrendering to fate

"meri Zindagi ki sabse badi political crisis to tum ho" he muttered

She smiled soft and pleased as he looked at her caressing her cheeks now

"kyu hai itni pyari aap" he said softly looking at her making her giggle

"kyu hai itne hot aap" she said making him shake his head

Before he could respond she shifted too close her hand slid up his arm clumsy, trusting

She looked at him deep in his eyes and stared moving from his eyes to slowly down to his lips

Her lips parted as she looked at him

She leaned forward distance between them starting to decrease

Aviraj stiffened as he gulped

For a split second instinct screamed at him to close the gap but something stronger stopped him

He caught her gently by the shoulders firm but careful stopping her just inches away

His breath uneven control clenched tight in his jaw

"no no" he said softly but unmistakable authority

"you are not in your senses noor" he said softly clearly not angry but protective grounded

She frowned faintly confused lashes down now lips trembling as she looked down

Her brows knitted in confusion eyes unfocused hurt flickering in the like a child denied for something

"you don't find me attractive na?" she said voice low and cracking lips wobbling

He froze

Not because the words were heavy but the way she said them it wasn't dramatic but small vulnerable like she was saying her insecurity

His chest tightened

He moved instantly pulling her closely he cupped her face gently taking her in arms thumb warm against her cheeks he leaned in not closing the distance she wanted but resting his forehead gently against hers breath warm steadying them warm

"jaan" his voice dropped no authority now only truth

"don't say that"

She blinked slowly eyes glossy confusion swirling tears threatening to edges

"you are tired" he murmured

"dawaiyon ka asar hai aur mai tumhara hu sirf tumhara lekin aise nahi, bacha"

He slowly guided her back one hand supporting her shoulder the other tucking the blanket around her

"kya matlab aisi nazdeeki ka jo tumhari yaadon mei naa rahe hmm?" he said lowly softly

"meri chahat tumhari hifazat se badhke nahi hai" he stated calmly slowly caressing her hair

"you have no idea" he said quietly jaw tight eyes dark and sincere

"what you are to me, even if I look at you for the whole day I wont get enough"

Her breath hitched

"but attraction" he continued forehead resting against hers now voice steady but rough underneath

"is not more important than your safety, your consent, your clarity"

He pulled back just enough to look at her properly

"I don't want a single memory where you wake up tomorrow and wonder

Did I want that..or I regret it"

His thumb brushed under her eyes wiping a tear that had escaped

"my desire can wait" he said softly

"my respect for you cant"

Her lips trembled but something eased in her chest

"so no" he added pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead safe, grounding, deliberate

"this had nothing to do with attraction"

She leaned into him then exhausted trust overweighing her confusion her head falling against his chest

He wrapped an arm around her carefully

"sleep, jaan" he murmured fingers threading through her hair slow and soothing

Her hands clutching his shirt in her hands

"I am here only, I am not going anywhere"

"avi" she murmured voice low as if in pain

"hmm" he hummed looking at her

"my body, my legs-" she tried to say before she could he slowly sat straight moving towards her legs

He shifted carefully reading her body before her words could fully form

He eased her legs onto his lap, palms walm as they began to move slowly over her calves with gentle pressure like he was anchoring her back into herself

His thumbs traced steady circles easing her ache

He leaned down not in haste not in heat only reverence

His lips brushed her ankles first then softer still he pressed a kiss to her foot a promise more than an act respect stitched into every second

When her breathing evened out he shifted again slowly carefully

Lifting her head and settling into his lap

His hand slid back into her hair fingers combing through gently

The other hand rested protectively at her shoulder

She curled instinctively trusting completely

Her lashes stilled her body went slack as sleep took over her

Aviraj leaned back against the headboard eyes closing only after he made sure she was deep in slumber

His thumb continued its slow motion through her hair as his own breathing softened

The room was silent now

Just her with him