Under the blanket the world stayed muted as if everything had stopped for a second nothing of the outside mattered- the people, noises, chatter, nothing. Just two people wrapped in a blanket in each other's arms - just their breaths, the faint rustle of fabric and the quiet thud of two hearts trying to find the same rhythm
Aviraj slowly shifted to his side giving space to kaashvi lying beside her slowly. He shifted just enough to settle behind her, her back pressed against his chest - careful and unhurried like they were afraid the moment might crack if someone moved fast.
Her back fit against his chest naturally leaning into him as if it had always known this place
His arm slid around her waist slowly pulling her a little closer, while her fingers found his hand sliding her fingers slowly into his without looking- interlaced
They laid side by side feeling the moment of silence in each other's arms his arms locked around her, her hands rested over his, fingers intertwined
For a while neither of them spoke
The blanket muffled the world outside- the distant voices, the footsteps, the people, work- everything, the weight of everything they carried beyond this room.
Inside it was only the slow rise and fall of their breaths, the quiet warmth between them
Kaashvi laid curled against him her head rested against his chest fingers absentmindedly tracing circles on the back of his hand
The ring he gave her caught the faint light every time she moved her hand the small crescent moon glinting like a secret
Aviraj watched her quietly
Not the guarded, politician or businessman, not the man who calculated rooms and people
Just him- lying there, having her in his arms, feeling the warmth of her presence against him
His chin softly rested near her shoulder
"kya soch rahi ho?"
he said voice low
Looking at her being so silent, eyes fixed he knows she was thinking probably overthinking about something
She didn't answer immediately
Her fingers slowed then stilled on the back of his hand as if she was trying to father her thoughts that refused to come out the way she wants
"pata nahi..."
she murmured after a moment voice low and honest gaze still stuck somewhere
Sensing it he slowly pulls her closer gently brushing the strands of her hair from her face
"noor batao"
he said voice low but firm
She just sighed shifted slightly fitting into his arms more comfortably her back pressing into his chest like it was instinct now
"you know na avi," she said softly looking down at their hands voice lighter but thoughtful
"our life, the way we met, got married isn't normal"
He looked down at her trying to understand her words as he huffed a breath almost a laugh
Slowly leaning down more resting his chin on her shoulder his head near her face
"hmm but normal toh meri biwi bhi nahi hai" he said voice low but affectionate and teasing at the same time looking at her
She rolled her eyes slowly nudging his chest but smiled and then grew quiet again
"Sometimes I think," she hesitated for a moment fingers stilled on his hand
Sensing it he gently squeezed her hand as if anchoring her and silently telling 'he was listening'
"ki sab kitna jaldi ho gaya na matlab itna suddenly humara milna, shaadi, naye log, nayi duniya, expectations...
Kabhi kabhi dar lagta hai what if I mess up, what if I am not enough what if one day everything changes again"
she said letting out her fear trying to explain all she felt
The fear of not being enough- not being enough as a daughter in law, as someone who is a wife of someone so influential, and most of all not being enough for him, she knows she is not perfect on top chaotic enough, someone who overthinks, goes silent, argues when she thinks something is wrong. What if some day he sees her as someone who can't match his status
Aviraj didn't interrupt her, not even once
He didn't correct her fears or started giving explanation or justification neither he called her overthinking dramatic, he just listened to her, he didn't dismiss her fears, didn't rush to fix them like problems on a list
He just listened- really listened his breath steady against her hair, his arm slightly tightened around her waist when her words began to shake
He knew she overthinks, he knew she worries a lot and he knew some things aren't needed to be fixed, sometimes presence matters, how you respond matters and most importantly understanding matters
for a moment after she finished there was only silence again
then he slowly shifted just enough to turn her a little so she was half facing him
his one hand slid up knuckles brushing her cheek slowly
"noor" he said quietly, gaze fixed on her face
No teasing, no commanding just her name soft and grounding
She didn't look up immediately
"I won't lie to you" he continued voice calm, unhurried like trying to calm her down slowly with each syllable
"I know everything happened so fast and so suddenly
I know meri duniya or tumhari duniya ek jaisi nahi hai"
She swallowed eyes still down
"but sometimes some unplanned surprises are the most beautiful ones" he said lifting their joined hands slowly between then
Their fingers were interlocked the crescent ring catching the dim light again
His thumb traced the back of her hand
"I am a man who plans everything, calculates, thinks before stepping but with you..." he paused breath soft against her
"...with you I just want to live"
She finally looked up at him then slowly, searching as if checking whether he meant it or was just saying the right thing
"for the first time" he continued voice steady but honest in a way that stripped him bare
"I felt things as they came, I was confused, even irritated not knowing what was happening but.." he looked at her now gaze locked with hers
"the day I saw tears in your eyes.." he said softly, thumb still tracing slow circles on her hand
"that made me want to stop the world for a second, rip everything apart especially that damn fucker who was calling you his that day" his voice hardened for a moment remembering the day jay held her in front of him how he wanted to rip of his hand that was touching her
His words hung, between them - raw, unfiltered a crack in the armour he never let anyone see
Before the moment could break kaashvi moved
Slowly gently she turned in his arms just enough to face him
Her fingers lifted then settled against his jaw, warm and certain her thumb brushed the faint stubble there grounding him the way his hands did to her moments ago
"avi" she said softly not correcting him not questioning the rage behind his words
Her palm slid up to his cheek cupping it fully now forcing him to look only at her
His dark black orbs fixed with her amber ones
"mai kisi ki nahi hoon" she said quietly eyes steady voice calm but absolute
"naa kisi ki thi aur naa kisi aur ki ho sakti hu"
His breath hitched for a moment as he listened to her this own hand cupping her jaw
"noor sirf apne avi ki hai"
she said voice soft
His thumb stilled against her jaw
For a second he didn't speak he just looked at her- like he was committing the sentence to his memory, carving it somewhere permanently inside him
The way she said those words- he looked at her the girl who was choosing him, the girl who fought, who stood still didn't give up for what's right, even after knowing him, seeing him she was choosing him, ready to stand beside him- as his, his wife, his noor
"do you even realize what you do to me when you say things like that?" he asked quietly voice low
She smiled faintly still holding his face
"I was just saying the truth"
He exhaled slowly resting his forehead against her
"the truth" he repeated
"Is that I don't need perfect, I don't need you to fit into my world flawlessly or impress anyone who look at us
Tumhari or meri duniya alag thi par....
...tumhare sath mai apni duniya ko tumhare layak bana lunga"
She went still at that
Not because it sounded poetic or dramatic but it sounded real and decided
Her fingers tightened slightly on his jaw thumb brushing the faint line of tension near his cheek
"so what are we then? Its hard to define us" she asked softly
He gave a small rare smile one that was meant just for her
"we are two people who met at the wrong time according to the world but at the exact right time for ourselves" he said
She searched in his eyes
"and If I mess up?"
"I will stay" he answered immediately
"and if I get scared?"
"I will hold you"
"and if I change?"
He leaned in just enough that his nose brushed hers
"then I will learn you all over again"
Her eyes softened something heavy loosening in her chest
He brushed his thumb on her cheek
"we don't have to rush, not for label, future or anyone else
I am not going anywhere, there is a whole life ahead of us noor we will learn slowly, understand things about ourselves and each other, about what we need, what we fear and what we want to protect"
His forehead rested against her
"you are not in a hurry? For feelings...for everything to look in a certain way?" she asked
"no" he said firmly
His thumb brushed over the ring again
"I want to feel every version of you- uncertain you, confident you, quiet you, angry you, every moment because with you even the slow parts matter"
Her eyes glistened she swallowed emotions crowding her throat
This man was ready to do everything for her, to learn her, understand her, and most importantly giving her time- changing himself for her the one who didn't used to speak was now showing his thoughts and emotions just for her
"what if I disappoint you someday?" she whispered
"what if I say wrong thing, fight, go quiet...I am too messy for your world"
A faint smiled curled his lips
"then we will manage...together"
"I don't want perfection noor I married a woman who feels deeply, who questions, who argues when something doesn't sit right your overthinking isn't your weakness, that means you care"
He leaned just enough for his voice to brush her skin
"and don't even think you have to match my status" he added firmer now
"my name my position ye sab mere saath aaya magar tum...tum meri Zindagi mei apni roshni laayi ho
And I know whatever my noor will do she will always make me proud"
She swallowed emotions tightening her throat as she looked up at him
"there is a whole life a head of us, feelings that are rushed are burned faster
But those that are felt- moment by moment stays, with you even the smallest of a moment counts"
For a moment neither of them spoke just being in the comfort of each other's arms his one hand wrapped around her waist holding her while other caressed her cheek softly
Her hand slid up resting over his hear
"promise me something avi" she said quietly
He looked at her eyes soft
"bolo"
She smiled faintly her head resting on his chest now, her eyes screaming her emotions
"jub bhi hum mei se koi zyada bolde kabhi yaa chup ho jaaye don't walk away, don't shut down bass sath baith jaana mere paas"
His expression softened something unguarded flickering through his eyes
"okay but" he said
"on one condition"
She looked up at him chin resting in his chest
"kya?"
"you too will not run" he said gently tucking a strand of her behind her ear this thumb slowly caressing her cheek eyes looking down at her
"every time things feel difficult you will lean onto me rather than being alone"
She exhaled slowly nodding once
"okay"
Then he something that surprised her and made her smile at the same time
"kanhaji wala promise?" he asked with a soft smile looking in her eyes
She laughed slowly at that, shifting closer fitting into him like a puzzle that was solved and pieces belonged together to be completed
"kanha ji wala promise" she repeated eyes shining now
Something in his face shifted the relief, warmth something close to devotion for her
He leaned down slowly pressing his lips on her forehead and then rested his forehead against her eyes closing for a brief second
"then listen carefully baby" he said quietly
"I won't rush you, I wont force feelings to grow faster
This isn't a race noor it's a long road"
She stayed still listening to him breathing him in
"we will learn each other slowly" he continued
"your silences, my temper, your overthinking, my control issues
Some days we will get it right some days we won't"
His thumb brushed her cheek again
"but I will stay even the days you won't understand yourself..."
Her throat tightened
"and I will stay even on the days your world gets loud" she said
She smiled back small but sure
"together remember" he said slowly opening his eyes and looking into her
"always"
They felt the quiet after that not awkward not heavy just settled
Kaashvi slowly lifted their joined hands, bringing them up in the air between them
The moon shaped ring caught the faint light
He traced her knuckles with his thumb, then the curve of her finger
They both watched their joined hands
"aapke haanth kitne bade hai avi" she said looking at their joined hands
He snorted softly at that, eyes still on their hands
"Observation hai yaa complaint?"
She tilted her head back just enough to look at him mischief instantly lighting her face
"aree observation" she said innocently
"jaise movie mei hota na heroine ke paas gunda aata toh jub mere paas aayega na aap who dialogue bola "ye dhai kilo kaa haanth hai kalia" she finished dramatically eyebrows wriggling like she had just delivered an Oscar worthy line
He shook his head at her antic and looked at their antics
"gunde tumhe le bhi gaye toh 2 minute mei khud mere paas wapas chordke jayenge" he said calmly
She gasped utterly offended mock glaring at him
"excuse me? Dar jayenge woh meri taakat se" she said lifting her chin
He hummed thoughtfully
"hmm chalta phirta theatre mil jayega unko"
She smacked his chest lightly making him chuckle
"and mere haanth bade nahi tumhare haanth zyada chote hai"
He said looking at their joined hands again fingers slowly caressing hers
She scoffed twisting a little in his arms so she could glare properly at him
"oh acha matlab abb victim blaming karlo"
He raised an eyebrow completely unfazed pulling her back to him
"facts hai madam tumhare liye choodiya lete hue even the man was asking biwi ke liye hai yaa bacchi ke liye"
She narrowed her eyes at him
"bass bass aap bhaut bolna seekh rahe ho hmm" she said
He shrugged and looked down at her
"what can I do now sangati ka asar"
She rolled her eyes but burst out laughing despite herself head falling against his chest then with mischievous eyes she looked at him fingers slowly drawing circles on his chest
He wrapped both arms around her pulling her closer under the bkanket
"waise lucky to mai hu" she said looking at him
"kyuki kehte hai jiske haanth bade hote hai..." she said deliberately speaking low eyes shining with mischief lips pressing as she tried not to laugh
He looked at her with knitted brows not understanding her words
"toh?" he asked being utterly confused
She just smiled while shrugging casually
"jiske haanth bade honthe han na unka..." she said again looking at him biting her inner cheeks making him more confused
"unka?" he asked
She didn't finish the sentence trying hard to not laugh at her so innocent husband who was totally clueless of her mind
Instead, her eyes flickered downward to his body - gesturing at something - quick and shameless and her fingers still tracing his chest slowly
Then she looked back up at him lips pressed together
"unka-" she said again dragging the word out deliberately
Aviraj blinked, once, twice still being confused
His brain clearly took a second to connect the dots and when it did it hit him like a slap
He stared down at her eyes slightly widened for a full second his brain clearly buffering
Then realization hit him like a delayed slap
His jaw dropped just a fraction as he looked from her face to their joined hands and then back at her again
"noor" he said slowly warning and shock clear in his voice ears already turning red
It felt like his wife who he thought was cute and innocent till now was no way near even the I of innocence
He didn't know what to say or how to react to this now
As he gulped
She tilted her head all fake innocence again blinking at him her brows lifting with a teasing smile as if to say 'samajh aa gaya?"
"unka aage bolu?" she repeated innocently asking
Aviraj stared at her like she had just rewritten every rule he thought he knew about her
There was a beat of stunned silence and then aviraj sucked in a sharp breath and turned his face away instantly, hand coming to rub the back of his neck
"kitni besharam ho gayi ho tum" he muttered
His cheeks were burning proper, unmistakable crimson
And kaashvi? She was enjoying like anything
She burst out laughing
Not a soft giggle full, delighted laughter shoulders shaking as she buried her face briefly in his chest
"oh my god" she wheezed
"avi your face-"
He shot her a look equal parts of a glare and being flustered
"kaha se laati ho tum ye sab baatein" he asked trying (and failing) to sound stern
She looked up at him eyes sparkling completely unapologetic
"maine toh kuch bola hi nahi" she defended sweetly
He groaned softly pulling the blanket up as if it could save him from menace
"kya kya chalta hai tumahre dimag mei, mai izzatdaar aadmi hu sharam karo thoda"
She grinned wider shifting more closer to him tracing his face with her fingers making instantly move back his eyes widening
"aapko dekh ke abb mann ke khayal machalne lagte hai toh meri kya galti"
She said it so casually so softly like she was talking about weather
Aviraj froze not just froze his actual system circuited as he gulped
He cleared his throat trying and failing to regain composure
"tumhe sharam naam ki chiz hai yaa nahi?" he said voice still flustered
She grinned wider leaning more closer to make it worse
"bass thodi si" she said sweetly
"par aapke saamne use karne ka mann nahi karta na"
Her stared at her then very deliberately looked away then looked back at her again, his ears were already crimson
"mai kya samajta tha tumhe" he said slowly
"aur tum toh- kitni gandi nazrein hai tumhari mujhpe doctor"
He stopped
She burst out laughing
Slowly lifting her hand and pinching his cheek like he was some child
"aap kitne bholu se ho yaar avi my bholu pati" she said laughing a full breathless laugh
He pinched the bridge of his nose exhaling hard shaking his head trying not to laugh looking at her
He let out a helpless huff of laughter finally giving up his forehead dropping to hers as his arms tightened around her
"le doobogi tum mujhe kisi din" he said smiling despite himself
She hummed happily nestling closer
"my shy shy avi" she whispered teasing making him sigh
As they both stayed together her laughter still echoing softly between them when suddenly they heard a click sound making both of them confused
Both of them stilled for a moment
The sound wasn't loud but they knew what it was
Aviraj's eyes flickered instantly towards the door behind them as he looked at it
The handle didn't move now
He frowned
"did you hear that?" he asked already shifting slightly as if to get up
Kaashvi looked at the door with furrowed brows
Of course she did hear it
Her laughter died mid breath, her fingers which had been lazily playing with his collar froze. For half a second, she stared at the door
Then as if realization hit her knowing what happened and who did it her lips pressed together
Her expression changed very slowly not fear, not panic just realization
"ye dono .... khud bhaag gaye mujhe phansa gaye itna sa kaam time se nahi kar paaye" she thought
Aviraj's gaze flickered to her sharp and questioning but she only looked around as if deliberately avoiding his gaze her lips pressed together as if hiding a secret
He didn't say anything just looked at her and knew whatever it was she was the mastermind behind it
He just rose slowly from bed his movements deliberate his eyes never left her face as he crossed the short distance to the door hand reaching for the handle
The door didn't budge
He frowned testing it gently and it was locked from outside
Kaashvi stayed still leaning on the headboard of the bed now her expression soft
She tilted her head letting him process the situation
"haww avi someone locked us abb kya hoga.. aap, mai ye kamra or aapke bade bade...haanth" she said blinking innocently sitting on the bed now
Aviraj didn't turn immediately
He stood there for a second his back facing her hand still on the handle- mind processing and connecting the dots accepting her plan with quiet defeat
Then a very slow exhale left him a small smile tugging at his lips
He turned now facing her
The look in his face wasn't anger or irritation it was the dangerous calm
"hmm?" he hummed softly brows lifting just a fraction as he looked at her
"mai tum aur ye kamra?" he said
She nodded lips twitching eyes wide in fake innocence as she looked at him sitting straight
"haa na bhauat khatarnaak situation hai
Hum tum ek kamre mei band ho or darwaza lock ho jaaye" she said in a sing song manner looking like she was sad as she shook her head dramatically
"noor who locked it?" he said slowly eyes scanning her face
She didn't answer immediately
Instead, she smiled that was far too innocent to be honest
She shrugged casually, too casually
"maybe....wind?" she offered
He stared at her trying not to smile at her act
"wind?" he repeated slowly
Kaashvi nodded enthusiastically
"haa bhaut tez rahi hogi sidhe lock ke andar ghus gayi avi" she said
That did it
The corner of his mouth twitched despite his effort
Her turned fully now leaning his shoulder against the door arms crossing over his chest calm, composed dangerously amused
"noor" he said gently far too gently
"kaha se seekhi itni-
-bekaar acting" he said
She gasped hands flying dramatically to her chest
"excuse me? Aap kya jaane acting mei toh mai madhuri dixit se kum nahi hu har baar annual function mei play mei part milta tha mujhe" she said lifting her chin a little, crossing hands over her chest
He looked at her lifting his brows
"kiska? Paidd kaa yaa jhaadiyo ka?" he said making her glare at him
"accha ji?" she shot back instantly scoffing instantly as she leaned forward a little finger pointing at him accusingly
"fyi Mr. Singh meri hi acting se niche aap bevkuf bane thae"
He stared at her and then he let out a low laugh the kind he didn't usually give anyone - soft, disbelieving, amused
"waise tumhare 2 sipahiyo ne pehle hi lock kiya tha yaa tumne unko remind karaya?" he asked looking at her as if catching he red-handed
Her lips pressed together as she looked at him and then sighed dramatically while looking down
"accha fine" she admitted
"maine bola tha unko....thoda sa"
"thoda sa?" he asked
She nodded sheepishly while shrugging
"matlab maine unhe bola tha tumhare bhaiya or mera romance track par nahi hai thoda time spend karenge toh train atleast start toh ho" she said it casually
He stared at her for a long second
Just when he thinks he knows her she gives him a surprise with her words or her plans
He shook his head slowly disbelief written all over his face
"kya karunga mai tumhara noor" he said looking at her
She grinned cheekily
"romance, baaki mood ki tension naa lo woh mai bana lungi"
Aviraj dragged a hand down his face and let out a breath that was half a laugh half surrender
She looked at him for a second her smile faltering and expression changing
"but jokes aside you can go if you want I will call-" her voice came softer quieter and honest as she was about to say aviraj turned again facing the door his hand reaching the knob
Kaashvi watched his back the playful sparkle in her eyes dimming just a little
Then slowly aviraj moved the knob and locked the door from inside
Click. She heard the sound
Her head snapped up
He turned to face her walking back with that cam dangerous composure of his but this time there was warmth underneath it as he looked at her
The click echoed louder than it should have
Kaashvi's breath caught
Her eyes flickered to the door than to him as a small smile spread on her face as she looked down biting her inner cheeks
Aviraj didn't rush, he didn't tease
"I won't leave" he said quietly voice steady but soft in a way that only belonged to her
She swallowed looking down
"and now?" she asked quietly her voice low
"now we stay here" he said
"not because the door is locked or someone planned it
But because this is where we belong, this is where I want to be, here with you right now"
Something in her cracked she looked up her smile widening surprise melting into relief
Before he could say another word, she stood up from the bed and practically ran and launched herself on him
Aviraj reacted on instinct catching her mid step her feet barely touching the floor as he lifted her slightly
Her arms went around his neck laughter spilling out as she was in his arms and he held her lifting her a little
"aviii" she laughed half breathless
He smiled looking at her
"aaram se, I am not going anywhere"
She clung to him without hesitation her body curled instinctively towards his warmth as her held her up his arms effortlessly wrapped securely around her wait
Her feet barely touched the floor, toes grazing it once before he lifted her again as he adjusted his grip like keeping something precious steady
Her forehead rested against her breaths mingling hers lighter and laughter filles his slower and grounding
One of his hands supported her back firmly the other settling at her waist with a certainty that made her feel anchored
She looked at him, eyes bright, cheeks flushed hair falling slightly out of place around her face
For a moment neither of them spoke
He looked at her like she was exactly where she was meant to be righte there held close safe in his arms
She softened fingers slightly tightening behind his neck she rested her head near his shoulder silently hugging
"you scared me for a second" she murmured half laughing half emotional
He smiled against her hair arms tightening around her
"there is no walking away Mrs. Singh. Not from us"
She pulled back just enough to look at him
"hmm but ye dono gadhe bhi na pehle kar dete toh bechari mandira ko humara live show naa suuna padta" she said complaining like a child
He huffed a laugh forehead resting against hers
"pagal ho tum" he murmured fondly
She grinned her nose brushing his as she moved placing her lips on his cheek softly
"aapke liye hi toh hoon"
He held her there steady, grounded looking at her with the eyes that only show his softness for her his one hand coming to slowly caress her face
A corner of his mouth curved up the rare smile meant only for her
He held her their arms firm around her waist her body light against his chest her feet hovered just above the floor toes brushing his calves every time she laughed and moved one of his hands supported her lower back the other steady at her side
She looked at him, arms around his neck eyes locked with his
He adjusted his grip slightly not putting her down just shifting so she was more comfortable in his arms his forehead leaned closer to hers
"so" he asked quietly a hint of amusement in his voice
"now that madam has successfully kidnapped her husband what exactly are we doing together doctor sahiba hmm?"
She grinned wider at that swinging just a little in his arms on purpose, enjoying the way his arms tightened instinctively
"I have everything planned aap bass mujhe follow kariye" she said excitedly eyes sparkling
He let out a soft chuckle shaking his head as if already accepting his fate under her mercy
"tumhe follow karna bhaut mushkil kaam hai noor-" as he said he didn't even get to finish
She stopped swinging in his arms mid air her eyes narrowing as she fixed him with her glare
Brows lowered, lips pressed head tilted just enough to say "kya bola?"
He stopped instantly looking at her, mid-sentence, mid thought
His mouth closed, his words forgotten with just that one look, his shoulders lifting in mock surrender
"okay" he said calmly far too obedient for a man like him
The man who commanded rooms, whose one word was enough to make people scared was here stopping just by the one glare of his wife
Her glare broke as she smiled in victory
He adjusted her grip again, eyes softening as he looked at her face this close
"bataiye abb kya karna hai?" he said politely as if asking permission from a great authority
She grinned wide arms tightening around his neck nose brushing his
"waise kar toh bhaut kuch kar sakte hai" she murmured softly brows raising making him look at her with slightly nervous expression
"noor" he warned voice slow making her laugh at his flushed face
"mazak baby mazak pehle aap mujhe neeche rakhiye"
He raised a brow
"sure?"
She nodded enthusiastically
The moment her feet touched the floor she grabbed his hand before he could even react
"abb" she continued already dragging him to the bed
"aap meri dusri sautan matlab apna laptop kholiye"
He followed her without resistance being amused and letting her do whatever she wanted
"and?" he asked sitting down on bed as she guided him with his shoulders his eyes never leaving her excited face
She leaned against the headboard hands crossed on chest excitement buzzing out of her
"and" she said proudly
"we do something every normal couple does"
He laughed softly at that opening the laptop as she told
"normal?"
She nodded while moving towards the other side of the bed
"haa normal no politics, no drama, no business, no hospital chaos, no ex fiancé hearing our voices"
Then her lips curved again
"sirf hum"
She bent down and opened the drawer of side table as if looking for something while he opened the laptop
He looked at her for a long second after that
"you are the only one who can lock me like this and give instructions"
She shrugged, looking for the things, she needed utterly unbothered
"talent hai jaaneman talent"
He shook his head a helpless smile finally breaking through as the laptop screen lit up
He was still smiling hearing the word from her mouth- jaaneman not wide not dramatic just the small helpless curve of his lips
It hit him late- the words she uses for him so casually yet the impact it leaves on him
His fingers paused on the keyboard for half a second before resuming like nothing happened but inside something warm and stupidly soft loosened in his chest
"my little chaos" he thought
He glanced at her from the corner of his eyes as she bent over the side drawer half of her face hidden hair falling forward her brows knitted as if completely being focused like she was on some secret mission
"what are you doing?" he asked tone neutral but his gaze lingering at her being confused
She didn't answer just hummed to herself still looking and doing her work
He leaned back slightly against the headboard laptop balanced over his thighs watching her like a man observing a tiny dangerous creature he had underestimated
His gaze never leaving her but his mind replayed the word again and again
No one ever calls him with the names like her but she...she does whatever she wants and he...he just wants to let her be who she is
Before he could think further, she stood up and straightened eyes shining and smile widening as if she completed a task
And then
She turned towards the bed facing him and unleashed the chaos spreading it all over the bed in front of him
Different colourful packets hit the bed one after another there were packets thrown from her arms straight to the bed
Packets hit the bed one after another
Chips, chocolates, wafers, biscuits, a tiny box of brownies and two different coloured gummies
He blinked looking at them
For the first time in his organized room, he has seen all this and on top of that he didn't know these things were there at the first place
A secret she kept from him hiding everything whenever he was not around
They spread across the bedsheet
Aviraj stared at the packet his gaze at snacks then moved to her for a second who was smiling and then back to the cluster of packets
"what?" he said slowly as if his brain was buffering
"is this?"
She planted her hands on her hips, chin lifted looking far too proud of herself
"our imperfectly perfect date avi" she announced
He looked at her
"you had this hidden in our room?"
She nodded brightly
"emergency stash avi mujhe aadhi raat ko bhook lagti hai na"
The bed looked like a school canteen filled with chips and other things
Aviraj let out a breath that was half disbelief half surrender as he looked at the bed then at her his eyes softened shining with fondness
Never ever he used to eat these things and here she was keeping them secretly filling the bed
"kya insaan ho yaar tum" he muttered shaking his head slowly a faint laugh escaping him
"doctor ho aur ye kya dukaan kholdi hai" he gestured at the mountains of snacks
She laughed instantly that free laugh that always disarmed him making him getting lost in her
She climbed onto the bed settling beside him cross legged like a child
"arre ye survival kit hai mera" she said covering both of them with blanket properly and then keeping all her treasure between them
He closed the laptop for a moment turned slightly and without thinking wrapped one arm around her waist pulling her closer to his side, she came easily to his side curling into him her shoulders pressed into his chest her head brushing his collarbone
But she had other plans slowly she shifted a little looking at him
"pairr kholiye" she said making him look at her with a weird "what do you mean?" expression
He stared at her for a second clearly suspicious
She looked at him and gave a dramatic look knowing what he was thinking
"aree nahi uthari hu aapka fayda relax" she said in mock assuring tone making him roll his eyes but create a seat between his legs
With exaggerated patience he adjusted himself stretching his legs out slightly
She shifted and scooted back carefully settling between his legs her back resting against his chest
The blanket shifted with her cocooning them together
For a moment he stiffened
"aap comfortable ho?" she asked tilting her head looking at him
Then as if instinct took over him rather than answering
He wrapped his arms around her waist firmer palm resting warm and seatdy just above her stomach pulling her more to himself
She smiled leaning more into him
His one hands reached past her to pull the laptop closer placing it comfortably infront of them
She leaned back her head lightly touching his shoulder
"perfect" he whispered near her ear
She settled into him easily like her body already knew the place it belonged her back rested against his chest one knee tucked up the other folded under her as she leaned slightly sideways so she could see the screen
The blanket wrapped them both together
Aviraj adjusted without thinking his arm firm around her waist palm resting flat against her stomach
His thumb moved absent mindedly slow through the fabric of her kurta
The laptop lay open infront of them on the bed balanced between snacks and pillows its soft glow lighting her face in the darkened room
As aviraj opened the laptop the screen lit up glow spreading across the blanket and her face
For a second her breath hitched as she looked at the screen as the realisation hit her, her gaze was stuck to the screen
It was their picture on his wallpaper... even on the laptop
The same picture.... Of that night
Just two of them - her looking at the camera smiling with the sindoor and mangalsutra and his gaze on her instead of the camera
For a moment she stilled looking at it
Her eyes lingered on the screen longer than she meant to she remembered in his phone she was the one to change his wallpaper but here
Here he himself set the wallpaper as their picture
Aviraj noticed the way she stilled
His arms tightened just a fraction around her waist
"what happened?" he asked quietly eyes shifting from screen to her face
She blinked coming back from her thoughts pulled herself back from the moment and smiled tilting her head looking at him
And before he could say anything further, she lifted herself a little in his arm pressing her lips lightly on his cheek
He froze for half a second when her lips brushed his cheek softly
Partially because it was unexpected and partially because how quietly it landed the soft touch of her lips, like a thankyou she didn't put into words
His jaw tightened as he exhaled, his neck and ear turning slightly warm and red eyes flickering away for a moment as if grounding himself
Even though it was just a small kiss that too on cheek but it was enough for his brain to stop working for a moment
He didn't say anything further just pulled her a little closer his arm firming around her waist
That picture wasn't there by accident
He had set it himself late one night after she had fallen asleep beside him and he was still working and that picture was the only anchor keeping him sane during the hectic hours of his work and office
She shifted slightly in his arms now settling back against his chest her head fitting under his chin
He rested his jaw lightly against her hair
His thumb slowly brushed over her stomach grounding them both
"which movie?" he asked tone casual
She turned her face just enough to look up at him eyes bright mouth already curving
"tangled"
He blinked once twice
Then looked at her properly brows lifting in surprise a small amused smile coming to his face
"tangled? Princess wali?"
She nodded utterly unbothered and unapologetic
"yess princess, lanterns, love and my favourite mera pehla crush Flynn rider"
Aviraj let out a soft huff of a laugh his eyes softening at her
"tangled" he repeated under his breath shaking his head like it surprised him more than it should have
But still searched for it
For a moment he looked at her not teasing or amused just fond and warm
Something dangerously close to adoration settling in his eyes
Her head was tilted back just enough to meet his gaze eyes bright, unapologetic excited in that unfiltered way that still caught him off guard
No pretence, no trying to fit into what she should like just her
Sitting in his arms wrapped in a blanket announcing her love for a cartoon movie
He didn't laugh didn't tease just looked at her
Something warm settled in his chest realising something
He had seen strength and power all his life he had work with it but her
Her strength was different
She was a girl who was stand up for what's right even if everyone is against her she fights, argues where its needed but yet never leaves her kindness
Here she was
Excited about lanterns, smiling about animated love admitting about a silly first crush without embarrassment
she was like a light like her name- his light
in a world so cruel she believes in storied where people found each other
"she isn't naïve, no, she is just brave and kind" he thought
It takes courage to stay soft in a world that keeps trying to rough you up
His arm around her waist tightened slightly
She was his
Warm, chaotic, honest not
Strong enough to stand up in room full of people and gentle enough to still love fairy tales
Aviraj exhaled slowly a rare softness settling into his haze
"kariye na start" she nudged him making him nod
He reached forward clicked play without another word and rested his chin against her head
"Flynn rider?" he said slowly narrowing his eyes
"so this is my competition?"
She grinned
"obviously he is smug ,sarcastic, hot"
"you are unbelievable in the best possible way" he murmured being fond more than teasing
As the opening scene rolled, she immediately grabbed a packet of chips and leaning into him
She tore the packet with her teeth already narrating everything to him in a whisper
"okay so abb dekho she has been stuck in a tower -" as she goes on, he didn't interrupt he just looks at her
He didn't watch the screen much either
Instead, he just watched her
The way her eyes lit up, the way she was explaining everything to him like she knew every thing clearly, eating while being concentrated on the screen the way she reacted before scenes happened, the way she spoke with her hands her head resting on his shoulder as she laughed during the scenes
And sitting here with her tucked into him snacks scattered a princess movie playing in the background he realized something
This girl wasn't trying to fit into his life
She was slowly effortlessly teaching his how to live one
"kya ho raha hai mujhe tumahre liye noor" he thought his gaze never leaving her face
And for the first time in a long time
He didn't want to plan anything he just wanted to stay right there
She was his girl, his princess who lightened his world the girl who teased shamelessly one moment and overthought everything about life next moment
Who could argue fiercely and still curl into his arms when the world was too loud
"even if I want to protect you from my world, I want to build a softer world just for you" he thought
He smiled soft, unguarded looking at her rather than the movie listening to the way she explained everything
The movie was already halfway through when the room slipped into that easy lived-in quiet only the voice of her munching snacks and explaining in between can be heard
Kaashvi was fully invested even if she had watched it a thousand times
She sat curled into him, one hand buried inside the chips, eyes on the screen every few seconds doing commentary
"okay dekho ye scene na bhaut funny hoga iske baad ye pakde jayenge"
She says while eating
"aur ye- Flynn waise he is a thief but kitna mast hai and his expression you know pura green forest hai"
Aviraj hummed occasionally nodded at the screen when required
But most of the time he wasn't really watching the movie
He was watching her- her eyes shining, the way she munched absent mindedly crumbs forgotten on her fingers
At one-point kaashvi paused mid-sentence
"aur phir wo-" she paused and turned her head slightly to find him looking at her
"avi?"
He hadn't realized he was staring
"hmm?" he responded voice calm but gaze never leaving her face
"movie dekhiye na" she said squinting eyes at him suspiciously
He didn't look away just held her gaze
"dekh toh raha hu"
She narrowed her eyes fully turning to face him now
"accha bataiye abhi kya hua?"
He leaned back slightly arm still around pulling her with him expression unreadable for a second
Then very simply and casually she shrugged
"he is looking at his girl
And I am looking at mine" he said quietly eyes steady on hers
For a second her breath caught and she just stared
Heat rushed to her cheeks
For a moment the movie became nothing more than moving colours and distant voices as they looked at each other
The glow of laptop softened his sharp features caught the curve of his jaw the stillness in his eyes
Kaashvi suddenly felt too seen like he wasn't just looking at her face but every thought she carried. He breath slowed without her realizing as she looked at him, her fingers curling lightly into the fabric of his shirt at his forearm
Aviraj's gaze dropped to her lips for a second making her heartbeat run faster
There was a faint smudge of chocolate at the corner of her mouth something she hadn't noticed
Slowly he lifted his hand eyes never leaving hers his thumb lifted gentle and unhurried
He brushed his thumb across her lower lip slow and careful as if asking permission without words
For a second she froze her breath hitched as she felt his touch on her lips
Eyes flickering to his thumb and then back to his face
Before she could say anything, he brought his thumb back showing her the chocolate but before she could say anything he brought the same thumb to his lip so casually tasting it like it meant nothing at all
But it meant everything
Her cheeks burned instantly heat rushed up her neck, ears and everywhere as she looked down not able to maintain contact with his eyes
She turned her face away far too quickly
He looked at her leaning closer to her ear his lips softly grazing her ears making her tighten her fingers on his shirt
"sweet" he finished softly the word barely more than a breath against her ear
Kaashvi stiffened for half a second then let out a quiet huff flushed beyond recovery
She pushed his chest lightly with her elbow not enough to move him just to protest
She turned her face away pretending to be very interested in movie again
"a-aap" she muttered swallowing calming herself down eyes glued to the screen now
"movie par dhyan dijiye"
He smiled looking at her not teasing just that slow knowing curve of his lips
"trying" he said softly against her ear tightening his arm around her
She shifted pretending to adjust the blanket her heart still racing
Behind her aviraj rested hic chin lightly against her head eyes on her solely
As the movie continued kaashvi paused for a moent
"aapko pata hai even he marries her after so much efforts" she said dramatically pointing at laptop with the chip
Aviraj hummed thoughtfully clearly enjoying her running commentary then the movie
She continued voice dripping into mock seriousness
"or kuch log hai bass uthayi ladki or kardi shaadi" she glanced up at him sideways lips twitching
That got his attention
He looked down at her slowly one brow lifting eyes sharp but amused
"accha jii?" he asked
She nodded while shrugging
"haa ji"
"atleast kari toh madam shukar manao" he replied calmly tone dry as ever
She frowned
"kis baat ka shukar neta jii? Aapko romance toh mai sikhau aur shukar bhi abb mai hi manau waah shampy waah" she said dramatically
He leaned a little closer voice lower and teasing
"abhi bana rahi hoti tum jay ke ghar rotiya who bhi jali hui"
For a second there was a stunned silence and then
She narrowed her eyes as him as if offended badly
She rolled her eyes
"oh please itni buri kismat nahi meri aaye bade" she scoffed nudging his ribs lightly with her elbow
He chuckled under his breath the sound vibrating against her back as he pulled her closer tightening his arms around her keeping his chin on her shoulder
"mai hone bhi nahi deta" he murmured making her smile
She laughed soft and warm settling back into him again
"waise mujhe aaj tak samaj nahi aaya usne itne end time par cancel kyu ki shaadi matlab aapko pata hai avi who nevle ka bacha chachundar ki prajati ka mere piche pada tha I just hated him and his family" she said
For a moment aviraj went still when she said that because of course he knows why the wedding got cancelled and the fact that she doesn't know because doesn't want her to know that
He didn't interrupt her didn't correct her didn't react the way a man who knows everything would
He just listened
Her voice flowed on half irritated half dramatic hands moving as she spoke completely unaware of the truth
He shifted lightly so she was more comfortable against him one arm firm around her waist the other resting loosely over her forearm
"hmm" he hummed thoughtfully as if it was a new information to him too only if she knew
"last minute cancellation akal aa gayi hogi uss par" he said as if thinking deeply
She just looked at him being done giving "are you serious" expression
"aap na pitne wale kaam karna band kardo mai bata rahi hu" she said folding her arms being offended
He just chuckled and dipped his chin to her shoulder his voice calm almost lazy
"jo bhi hai ho toh tum abb meri hi"
Her expression softened instantly annoyance melting into something warmer and softer
He brushed his thumb slowly over her knuckles gaze dropping to their joined hands
"kabhi kabhi mujhe lagta hai meri life ek weird tv serial hai random rishte, chaos" she muttered
"aur mai?" he asked quietly
She smiled without thinking leaning back
"aap toh sabse bade or acche wale plot twist ho janeman" she said as if teasing
The one line hit deeper than she knew
He looked at her, her gaze was on screen now
He lowered his head and pressed a soft kiss to her hair making her smile and hold his forearm
The room softened with the shift in the movie
Suddenly kaashvi gasped and sat straighter in his arms
"avi" she whispered urgently fingers gripping his forearm
"this is my favourite scene see"
On the screen the night bloomed dark water, Rapunzel and Flynn were on the boat and then lanterns began to rise one by one
Warm golden lights floating upward like a thousand small wishes
She smiled looking at the scene
Her eyes lit up instantly wide, glowing almost childlike
"this has always been my favourite" she said voice hushed
Aviraj followed her gaze to the screen and saw the sky filled with lanterns
Flynn looked at Rapunzel not the lanterns not the sky but her like the world had narrowed down to one person sitting beside him
Aviraj's gaze drifted back to kaashvi
The glow from screen danced across her face, the curve of her smile, her hand rested on his, the same way his world narrowed to his light- her
On screen lanterns filled the sky
In the room aviraj felt something settle quietly in his chest
Kaashvi leaned on him slightly looking at the screen with the small smile completely engrossed now
"you know I always wanted to see the sky filled with lanterns once" she said suddenly almost to herself
She didn't look at him when she said didn't ask or demanded
Just a wish
Aviraj watched her profile as she spoke the way her eyes reflected the glow
On screen Rapunzel whispered her dream
In the room aviraj made a quiet decision for his princess
He didn't interrupt her
Didn't promise out loud
He only tightened his arm around her waist as id silently telling 'I heard you'
Kaashvi smiled on the screen unaware of the way his gaze lingered on her softer than anyone else ever saw
"he looks at her like she is his world" kaashvi whispered looking at them her voice dropped into that hushed tone when something touched her deeply
Aviraj didn't answer immediately his gaze was on her
"she is" he said quietly looking at her
Not louder than a breath not meant to interrupt the moment
Kaashvi didn't hear it the way he meant It
She just looked at the screen smiling looking at them
Her fingers tightened just a little over his arm
She didn't know he wasn't talking about the movie
And he didn't know when his world completely changed
He stayed quiet letting her have her moment and enjoy
While in his arms his world leaned against him as he held it close
As the movie almost came to end
The laptop screen has dimmed somewhere between the climax and the calm kaashvi had slipped into sleep without realizing it
Her head rested against his chest, her breathing slow as she slept
Her excitement slowed her fingers loosened around the packet
At some point she shifted closer to him her legs bent as she leaned into him her head rested against his chest
Aviraj noticed the weight and then the warmth and her stillness
He slowly looked down at her caressing her hairs now carefully as if afraid to wake her up
Her lashes rested softly against her cheeks; lips slightly parted one hand curled against his shirt like she was holding onto him even in sleep
He didn't move, didn't adjust, didn't even breathe deeply
Because in that moment everything felt right
Not loud or dramatic just home
His thumb rose slowly without thinking brushing the loose strand of her hair that hand fallen on her face tucking it back with the tenderness he didn't show the world
The tough edges he carried to meetings, world none of them belonged here
Here he was just a man watching his world in his arms
Slowly almost unknowingly he reached for his phone with his free hand angling it just enough to capture the moment the way her cheek rested against him the calm on her face
A slow smile touched his lips
Slowly he clicked her picture and looked at it something inside his chest shifted
His thumb hovered over the screen before his eyes went to the laptop and he remembered
He opened the notes app on his phone
He started typing simply
Her wishes- he named it
1. Lanterns for my brightening star
he stared at the words for a long moment
"jaisa meri noor chahe" he whispered looking at her sleeping
a quiet promise formed in his mind
"I will give you that sky
And everything else you don't even know you are dreaming of yet my noor" he thought
He locked the phone slipped it aside and leaned down just enough to press a gentle kiss to her forehead - soft, reverent like sealing a vow
His palm cupped her cheek thumb tracing slow
"my little messy troublemaker" he whispered looking down at her
She shifted in her sleep instinctively leaning further into him
"avi" she slowly whispered in her sleep
Aviraj rested his cheek against her hair caressing her head
"sleep baby I have got you" he said eyes closing
The world could wait for now they were exactly where they needed to be
After a few hours
Morning arrived quietly light slipping into the room through the curtains
Kaashvi was already up moving here and there finding her things hurriedly
The blanket lay half folded on the bed snacks pushed aside
Her movements were quick- like already on duty mode
Books went into her bad one after another, pages rustling softly as she checked something
"avi mera stethoscope nahi mil raha" she said searching in her bag
Aviraj was standing near the wardrobe already halfway through buttoning his white shirt, sleeved rolled up just enough to look effortless, his watch lay on the dresser, cufflinks beside it everything placed in same discipline he carried himself
He glanced at her once then bent slightly opened the drawer of the table
Without a word he picked up the familiar black stethoscope tangled between notebooks and notes
He walked towards her slow and unhurried
"aise dhundti ho" he said calmly holding it up
"kisi din khud ko bhi bag mei daal dogi"
She froze mid motion turned and her face lit up instantly
"oh mil gyaa" she laughed relived rushing towards him
"I thought I left it in the hospital only"
He didn't hand it to her immediately
Instead, he stepped closer lifting it and placing it around her neck himself
His fingers brushed her collarbone just for a second making her still
He adjusted it properly eyes focused expression unreadable but gentle
"here doctor sahiba" he said
She looked up at him without even realizing she had leaned into his chest her forehead brushing lightly against his chest
"thank you" she murmured then sighed dramatically her head dropping fully against him now
His arms came around her one wrapping around her back other settling at her waist pulling her in like this was the most natural for them to be
His chin rested on top of her head
"ye Monday baar baar jaldi kyu aata hai" she whined softly voice muffled against his shirt
"itne acche Sunday ke baad abb phirse gadha mazduri karni padegi" she sighed
A small huff of amusement left him
"zimmedari hai nibhaani toh padegi" he replied calmly finger sliding up into her hair
He began to caress her hair slowly like he always does the way one soothes a restless child
She melted into it instantly wrapping arms around him
"mujhe aaj opd mei double duty hai" she complained quietly
"aur upar se ek senior- ughh Patani kaisi si hai woh" she whined
"hmm" he hummed listening carefully not interrupting thumb brushing small circles at her back
"Does she trouble you much noor?" he asked his voice calm but serious now
"nahi matlab not like that but.... Medical field is very toxic" she said sighing
He listened to her hugging her properly looking down at her
"tum sambhaal logi" he said
She tilted her face slightly peeking up at him
"itna confidence?"
His hand paused for a second in her hair before continuing
"tum par? Humesha" he said simply 4
Then she sighed again softer this time
Suddenly her phone started ringing flashing dhruv's name making aviraj roll his eyes and groan
"advik ayra ke baad iski hi kumi baaki thi" he murmured holding kaashvi tightly making her laugh
"I should go" she said checking her phone
"Morning rounds starts early today" she again moves to her bag checking everything
He looked at her noticing the crease between her brows
"relax" he said slowly "you are not late yet"
She zipped the bag slung it over her shoulder then rushed back to the study table grabbed one last book paper slipped out but she scooped them up quickly
"accha drive safely" she said halfway to the door
"Call me once you reach" he said adjusting his shirt and fastened his watch
As she was halfway to the door she turned back walked up to him again standing on her tip toes and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek smiling brightly
"jaisa aap kahe jaaneman" she said walking away hurriedly
He froze for a moment before he could say anything or react, she was already gone
The door clicked shut behind her the room settled to quiet again
He just looked at the way she left a deep exhale escaping his lips as he shook his head with a small smile
Aviraj finished adjusting his watch then reached for the file he had been reviewing earlier from the bedside table only to stop
He frowned looking at it
The file wasn't his, he looked around and found his file on the other table but then he looked at the other file
He opened it carefully
Patient file, government hospital
Her handwriting stared back at him typical doctor's handwriting, notes scribbled in margins, sticky tabs marking important pages, lab reports, observations
A treatment plan she had clearly stayed up refining
She had forgotten it he realised
He exhaled softly closing the file then his picked up his things with her file and went out
A faint smile tugged at his lips
"pagal" he murmured under his breath already grabbing his keys
A few hours later
The office felt colder, aviraj sat behind his desk, posture straight but tension was unmistakable
The file infront of him hadn't been turned in the last ten minutes
He looked at the areas he needs to work on, people's problems, complaints, budget given for it compiled all together
His jaw clenched fingers tapping once twice
His mind wandering to different directions but resting at only one thing...the ticket
He knows he have to get it any how not just because he has to prove but because he wants to work... work for people who trust him for development
But knowing where the budget given for all this goes wasn't hidden by him
The ac hummed softly doing nothing to ease the tightness coiled in his shoulders
Aviraj leaned back in his chair for a second eyes fixed on ceiling then straightened again
The file in front of him showed maps, projects, budgets, approval stamps and red annotations in the margins
On the paper everything looked clean. Too clean road sanctioned, hospitals upgraded, water project green lit
But in reality, he knew better
He flipped a page slowly
The funds allocated for the eastern block redevelopment was generous- almost suspiciously so
His thumb paused over one particular column
The numbers didn't add up, they never did
Money sanctioned from the centre is sent to state and even before reaching for work it is filtered half through a dozen of departments before reaching the ground and somewhere in between it just vanishes
The contractors, inflated tenders' projects that existed only in files and inauguration photographs but never really started
His jaw tightened
This was exactly why he needed that ticket
Not the title not the optics or authority but a position where he could force audits, work to be done, stop fake approvals and drag names into light even if they were powerful ones
He picked up his pen and circled a contractor's name
Same name. third project. Different district
He knew what was this man up to
Suddenly his door opened before he could say anything his father entered crisp kurta expression neutral but eyes sharp eyes that had seen decades of power shifts, alliances, betrayals
He shut the door behind himself
"busy?" his father asked though his eyes had already scanned the desk, the screen and the files
"always" aviraj replied evenly voice firm eyes still on documents
Kshitij moved closer resting his hand lightly on the back of the chair opposite the desk
"I came to check your work aviraj for the ticket" he said directly
"where are we?"
Aviraj finally looked up his gaze controlled and unreadable like it always is
"in progress" he said simply voice edged
A pause followed short but loaded with tension
"in progress isn't the answer" kshitij said calmly but voice edged
"this isn't some business or personal matter aviraj its politics, optics matter timing matter and right now you are not even half way through your work"
"I know" aviraj replied tone clipped
"you don't need to remind me, you want me to win the ticket I will do that you want me to win elections I will do that. How I do that shouldn't concern you"
Kshitij's eyes narrowed just a fraction not angry but assessing this is how it always has been between the about work, politics, success.
His father walked closer picked up the same file scanned it briefly
"you are digging too deep too early its risky"
Aviraj looked up
"or maybe everyone else has been digging shallow on purpose"
"you need to focus on the ticket first none of this matter without it, idealism doesn't survive in politics"
Aviraj's fingers stilled
"I am not asking it to survive I am just asking it to stop that's needed to"
His father gaze hardened just a fraction
"it comes with consequences, you think people benefitting from this system will sit quietly?"
"no" aviraj replied calmly
"they wont...and
I don't care about them"
For a moment neither spoke it wasn't anger between them it never was
It was the distance between the father and the son bound with duties
Two men shaped by the same world but hardened in their own ways
His father closed the file keeping it back
"don't let personal emotions cloud your timing" he said softer but also serious
"power is a chessboard, move too fast you lose pieces"
Aviraj held his gaze
"and move too slow you lose the game"
His father exhaled knowing his son well
"be careful" he said finally
"both for yourself and for people attached to you"
With that he turned and left
The door shut quietly but the silence it left behind was heavy
Aviraj leaned back again rubbing his thumb against his jaw irritation simmering under his calm exterior
Its not like he hated his father or his father hated him. No. but their relationship wasn't like the normal ones with time things changed, pressure of proving, power and work came making aviraj for who he is today
For a second aviraj wanted to leave this and run back to her
Taking his phone, he looked at the wallpaper tracing a hand on the screen
"I wish I could just run back to you" he thought exhaling deeply
As aviraj was engrossed in his work suddenly the door opened Kabir entered but something was unusual today he entered straight without any knock knock drama
That alone made aviraj look up
No teasing grin or smug way of his no casual swagger
He just shut the door behind him carefully walked straight to the desk and placed a thick file infront of aviraj with a dull thud
"here" Kabir said voice low
Aviraj's fingers stopped tapping he leaned back slightly eyes narrowing as he pulled the file toward himself
"contractor's list?"
Kabir nodded once
"aur unke so called 'projects' tender approvals, shell companies, fake vendors, inflated bills- sab kuch"
Aviraj opened the file page after page flipped under his fingers
Road repairs that existed only on paper
Drainage projects sanctioned thrice in the same ward under different names
Hospital billed equipment that never arrived
Ngo's funds not even properly billed
His jaw tightened
"this budget" aviraj said slowly voice dangerously calm
"was cleared for rural infrastructure, their development, schools, primary health centers"
Kabir leaned forward resting his palm on the desk
"aur wahi sabse zyada kaata gaya hai because waha audits kum hote hai and media don't even go there"
Aviraj exhaled through his nose, sharp and controlled
Names were highlighted in red
Same contractors, different department, same pattern - corruption
"and ministers?" aviraj asked without looking up
Kabir's lips pressed together
"khareed rakhe hai, unhi ke log hai party funding ka major hissa yahi se aata hai clean image dirty money"
Silence settled heavy between them
"so if we touch this area" he said finally looking up
"sirf ek contractor nahi girta"
Kabir met his gaze
"poora system unka"
"but then your winning election - risk mei hoga"
"this isn't about just winning now" he said quietly
Kabir tilted his head slightly
"matlab?"
Aviraj stood walking to the window outside the city moved traffic, people, routine of lives unaware of how much was stolen from them in plain sight
"these files" aviraj said turning back
"are people's money Kabir unka hak, unke roads, hospitals, unke sapne"
His voice lowered but dangerous enough
"I want to do the work for them and if this means I have to stand against their illegal system-
Kabir finished the sentence before him
"-I know and we are with you"
Aviraj leaned back slowly
"but for all this the first step is to get the damn ticket agar power nahi to ye file sirf paper hi rahegi"
Kabir nodded but didn't add his usual sarcastic remark about vivaan and him
Silence settled for a moment before aviraj's eyes lifted from the file
"kya hua hai" he asked
"kuch nahi" Kabir said voice low and drained
"Kabir" aviraj said again calmer but firmer
"saalon se tujhe jaanta hu ye tera 'kuch nahi' wala chehra nahi hai"
Kabir didn't answer he walked to the window hands in pocket staring at the city below
He let out a slow breath almost a laugh before humour as if world has personally betrayed him
"meher" he said simply
Aviraj didn't interrupt
"woh yaha aane ke liye nahi maan rahi" Kabir continued eyes still on the glass
"I tried everything indirect ways, logic, firm ko deal, partnership, growth, visibility- everything she used to care about"
He shook his head once
"this was her dream raj to work here but she didn't even argue bass mana kar diya"
Aviraj closed the file quietly listening to him
"maybe she is feeling cornered"
Kabir's jaw clenched
"I am not cornering her I just want us to give a chance I love her, aur mai jaa sakta toh 1-minute naa rukta par nahi jaa sakta mere piche jinki jobs hai, kaam hai, deals hai-" he tried to say voice cracking a little as he tried to compose himself
Aviraj stood up now moving closer but not invading his space
"you are trying to control" he corrected
"aur tu kar bhi galat tareeke se raha hai"
Kabir turned slightly frustration breaking through
"ye tu bol raha hai? Tujhe ek mahine baad kub kya karke kis neta ki leni hai tu woh tak plan karta hai" he said
Aviraj didn't deny
"haa but tu bhul raha hai there is an exception in my life too now"
Kabir looked at him now
"meher kaashvi nahi hai" he muttered
"I know" aviraj replied "aur tu mai nahi hai, dil se nahi dimag se soch ek tareeka kaam nahi kiya aur tareeke bache hai"
There was a beat of silence again heavier this time
Kabir rubbed his face with both hands
"she looks at me like I am a mistake she survived" he said bitterly
Aviraj shrugged
"Technically uske liye tu hai we both know why"
Kabir scoffed quietly
"chup kar jaa saale majnu apni ke sath hai toh mujhe bhaashan de raha"
Aviraj didn't say anything he just looked at Kabir- knowing his best friend well like he always did when jokes were covering something raw
"do you want me to talk to kaashvi woh maybe meher ko mana le" aviraj suggested
"nahi pagal hai kya kaashvi doesn't know about me and meher warna abhi tak zinda toh nahi chordti kaashvi mujhe" Kabir said knowing well how his best friend's wife is
Aviraj leaned back against the table arms crossed his lips curving making Kabir roll his eyes
"haa bass abb kho jayega uske khayalon mei" he said
Aviraj cleared his throat
"dekh" he said tone firm
"tu usse pyar karta hai, fine par iska matlab ye nahi tu uski life ko apni convenience ke hisab se shift karde"
Kabir's jaw tightened
"I didn't ask her to leave job bas transfer-
"- jo usne reject kar diya" aviraj cut in not harsh but factual
"aur uske baad bhi you are trying that's not giving space that tightening the grip"
Kabir looked aways eyes fixed on the glass window now
"Agar iss baar maine kuch nahi kiya" he muttered
"woh humesha ke liye chali jayegi raj"
Aviraj's voice softened a little but the truth in it didn't
"agar galat tareeke se Karega toh bhi chali jayegi, difference sirf itna hai iss baar uska dil mei tera naam bhi nahi bachega toh soch samaj"
There was a silence for a moment
Kabir swallowed his shoulders slumped just a little
"tu lucky hai" he said quietly
"kaashvi atleast chose you"
Aviraj shook his head once
"you mean the way I made her? In the beginning" he said sarcastically remembering how everything started
Kabir glanced at him
"I try to learn from my mistake her decisions should be hers only mai advice de sakta hu but it's her life ek baar galti kardi hai zabardasti ki aage soch bhi nahi skata" aviraj continued
"uske decisions ka weight uske upar hi hai chahe phir consequences dono ko sath mei jhelne pade I am ready for that but at least she won't have to justify and regret things she will learn things in life"
Kabir laughed weakly
"tu keh raha hai mai usse chord du?"
Aviraj met his eyes
"nahi mai keh raha hu uski life par control chord de baaki woh jo decide kare its her choice"
Kabir exhaled slowly rubbing the back of his neck
"saala" he muttered "pehle tu sirf irritatingly smart tha or mai pyar ka advisor or abb tu emotionally bhi ho gaya"
Aviraj smirked rolling his eyes
"tujhe nahi pata kaise kaise karke ho raha hu" aviraj muttered
Kabir snorted despite himself then after a moment he said
"woh wapas nahi aayi toh"
Aviraj's expression didn't change
"toh tu ye jaan ke zinda reh ki tune usse pyar kiya, uski Khushi ka socha"
Kabir looked down at his hand for a long silence then he nodded once
"theek hai" he said quietly
"ek tareeka chord dete hai"
Aviraj pushed off the table
"good abb dusra soch par pehle usse saans lene de"
As they were talking
"sir?" aviraj's assistant knocked and stepped in tablet hugged to his chest expression careful
"today's schedule - people's delegation is waiting downstairs and 12 baje contractor consortium ke sath business meeting bhi hai"
Aviraj looked at him but didn't answer immediately
One side was his business other was the people who needed him as their support and problem solver
He leaned back slightly in his chair, eyes unfocused for a second as if weighing something heavier than the schedule
Kabir turned just enough to watch him from the corner of his eye like he already knew which way this would go
"how many people?" aviraj asked finally voice firm
"kaafi zyada hai sir mostly from eastern wards. Water supply, land compensation, ration delyas"
Aviraj exhaled through his nose, he knew it well the kind of issues that never made it to higher authorities, mostly ignored but always decided elections
"and the meeting?" aviraj asked
"big investors sir. They have flown in this morning, they won't be happy if-"
"postpone it" aviraj cut in calm but final as he sttod up
The assistant blinked
"sir?"
"tell them we will reschedule, anyone who can't understand why public grievances come first is not someone I want sitting across my table anyway"
There was no anger in his voice just certainty like he knew what he had to do
The assistant nodded quickly
"yes sir I will inform them"
As the door closed behind him Kabir let out a low breath half smile tugging at his lips
"classic raj" he muttered
"dimag bhi aur zidd bhi"
Aviraj stood adjusting his cufflinks with a practised motion slipping back into that composed public version of himself
"logon ke liye kaam nahi karunga toh kya fayda power mei aane ka" aviraj said simply grabbing his black shades and a file
"aur jo paisa upar se niche aane se pehle gayab ho jaata hai uska hisaab bhi jaldi hi shuru hoga"
Kabir studied him for a second and then nodded
"tu jaa" he said finally
"mai yahi hoon contractor wali file ek baar aur deep dive kar leta hu kuch aur mila toh tujhe message kar dunga"
Aviraj moved stood beside Kabir keeping a hand on his shoulder as a knowing and concerned friend as he looked at him
"dhyan rakhiyo zyada-" he said but Kabir cut in
Kabir waved it off forcing a shrug
"I know"
Aviraj gave a small nod - understanding and stepped out
The door shut quietly behind him as he left
Kabir remains in his cabin seated in the chair, silence settling heavy once more
He leaned back in the chair head resting against the leather eyes drifting to the ceiling
His mind repeating only one word or only one person
Meher - always her
He pulled out his phone without thinking thumb moving across the screen one swipe and then another, he opened an old folder with buried memories the past he always kept with himself
And then there it was - a college photo
She sat in her hostel room legs folded, hair tied into two messy ponytails, there was food in her hands something greasy and she was laughing mid bite completely unbothered, completely herself. Her cheeks were puffed slightly, eyes crinkled
And him? He was looking at her as she was laughing
He had been sitting opposite to her listening to her complaints about constitutional law while watching her eat like the world owed her nothing
A small smile appeared on kabir's face as he let out a soft breathless chuckle
"baawli" he murmured more fond than bitter tracing her face in the photo
As he was lost in photo his mind went back to years ago
Flashback
The hostel room smelled faintly of dal and ghee the kind that stuck to walls
Meher sat cross legged on her bed oversized grey hoodie slipping off one shoulder and of course the hoodie wasn't hers she looked down at it and smiled
"Kabir ko pata chal gaya na maine uski hoodie churayi hai toh Bhagwan hi bachaye par mujhe kya uski chizen meri or meri toh meri hi hai"
she said while shrugging fully engrossed in eating
Her shorts hidden under the hem, her hair tied into two braided pony tails, strands escaping and sticking to her cheeks because she was eating with complete focus
Her favourite dal chawal a little ghee on top, her hands messy but heart satisfied
She had just scooped another bite on her hands watching her favourite sitcom
Suddenly she heard a tap
For a second she froze then another voice came
Tap, tap
Her eyes moved around and then darted to the window as the latch of the window shifted her eyes narrowing and as she was about to scream suddenly kabir's head appeared
"abe pagal aurat mai hu, help karo" he said voice low breathing heavy
His hair was a mess, his usual grin already in place like he had just pulled off the greatest heist of his life
"seriously?" she hissed whisper yelling moving to the window
"Kabir tum pagal ho kya-" she said whisper yelling
"help karo warna meri laash ko sunana sab" he said still stuck out of the window
"ohh haa haa jaldi aao" she said opening the window fully holding his forearm
He climbed in with ease after that like he had clearly done this more than once
He landed softly straightened his shirt and then
"meher tum-" he said looking down and then
For a moment he stopped as his eyes move to her
She stood there, frozen mid bite, fingers and mouth messy, hoodie sleeves pushed up, cheeks slightly puffed like she hadn't finished chewing
She looked at him eyes widened a little
She looked like
Home, he thought
Messy, comfortable, real
Her confidence vanished the second she realised how she looked infront of him
She quickly wiped her hand on a tissue being flustered
"tum bandar ho kya aise kon- I was just- I mean" she tried to say looking down
Kabir didn't say a word he just stared at her like she was the most perfect one he has ever seen
Not the loud teasing Kabir
Not the serious court room ready Kabir
Just a boy completely undone
"you look.." he finally said voice softer than usual
She looked down cheeks flushed, heat rushing to her face
"I know-" she said
"so perfect" he said still lost in her
She blinked looking at him taken off guard out of all he could have said she didn't expect this
"huh?" she said brows knitted
"meri mummy ki bahu"
he blurted without thinking eyes never leaving her face
For a second she froze completely
Her hand slipped the tissue her eyes widened cheeks going red so fast it betrayed her before she could even process what he said
"k-kya?" she whispered blinking like she'd misheard him
Kabir realized what had come out of his mouth a second too late
But instead of backtracking instead turning it into a joke he usually did he stayed right there
"I mean it" he said quietly
The room felt suddenly too small, too intimate
"pagal ho tum" she said looking down fidgeting her fingers not something she would usually do
"tumhare liye pagalpann ki bhi hadd paar hai, dua" he said softly now stepping closer
Taking her hand in his he took her to the bed again making her sit where she was and sitting opposite to her the food plate between them
She looked at him his eyes weren't teasing, he wasn't smirking
He was just looking at her like she was something precious he can't take his eyes off
"kuch bhi matt bolo bhuli nahi hu mai tumhara kal wala kaand principle ke office mei" she said trying to sound confident but the blush of her cheeks and the softness of her voice betrayed her
He smiled looking at her- just a soft boyish smile that belonged to someone in love
"abb pyar mei principle ki gaaliya nahi khaayi toh pyar kaisa senorita" he said leaning forward making her laugh and shook her head
Looking at her laughing freely he pulled a small box from behind his back like a magician
"your favourite" he said casually
"choco lava cake and don't ask how it got it past the guard" he said dramatically shaking his head like he had won a war to get into the hostel
"you bribed him again, didn't you?" she said
"obviously no doubt kyu who bagal wali ladki pregnant hui abb guard aise ladke andar ghusne dega toh" Kabir said dramatically complaining as if he hadn't done the same
Meher burst into laughter listening to him
"bass bass haa, zyada bano matt tum, pakde gaye na kisi din toh dono college ke bahar yahi cake bechte hue milenge" she said taking the cake from his hand
He looked at her keeping his arm on his knee and chin resting on his pam as if silently admiring her
"arre tum sath ho toh woh bhi kare lenge tum pack karna bana mai lunga" he said looking at her
She rolled her eyes but smiling despite
He looked at her plate then at her hands
"Pahadi style?" he asked
She nodded
"haan proper spoon se taste hi nahi aata mummy ne recipe batayi thi maine socha try karlu"
He chuckled finally relaxing and reached for the plate
"waise tum humesha aise hi khati ho?" he said dipping his fingers into the plate without hesitation
She stared at him and his hand in horror
"chidao matt aur ruko mai spoon laati hu tumhare liye" she said ready to get up but before she could he held her hand with his free ones making her sit back
"abb meri future biwi aise khati hai toh mai kaunsa angrez banke spoon chaatu" he replied easily
Her mouth fell open looking at him
"kya hai!" she exclaimed
He scooped a small bite brought it up and before she could protest gently held it near her lips
She hesitated but then took the bite
"okay" he said "my turn now"
Before she could say anything, he dipped his fingers he also took the bite from the same hands
She looked at him her eyes softening at him
"kaisa hai?" she asked
He chewed slowly as of silently judging face turning into mock seriousness like he was some master chef judging
"hmm theek hai par thoda better ho sakta hai-" as he was saying teasing her
She smacked his arm glaring at him
"accha accha better ho sakta hai lao wapas phir idhar" she said trying to snatch the plate from his hands as he laughed lifting the plate
Kabir lifted the plate just enough out of her reach laughing under his breath as she lunged for it almost slipping as his free hand held her carefully
"aree give it back aaye bade master chef ke phupa" she protested half laughing half offended
"naa naa bade chef ko feedback dene ka hak hota hai" he said smugly holding it higher
She huffed folding her arms dramatically
"haa haa khud jo parso chai tak jala di thi yaad hai mujhe"
That earned him a laugh- warm and unfiltered
He finally brought the plate down between them and sat properly beside her now their knees brushing
They ate like that- him making her eat with his hands and then eating himself
She talked with her mouth half full, explaining about how Pahadi food was, her traditions and everything while he listened like it was the most important lecture of his life nodding seriously occasionally
She paused mid bite
"waise tumko abhi hi aana tha?" meher blurted
"dekho na mai kya hapsi ban rakhi hu"
Kabir didn't answer immediately he scooped a bite in his hands making her eat
"mujhe toh iss mei bhi meri Dulhan hi lag rahi ho" he said looking in her eyes
Her breath hitched for a moment
She stared at him stunned, then immediately looked away face burning
"zyada matt bolo" she warned trying to sound stern
"abhi papa ka call aaya na tumhari aatma kaise niklegi mujhe bhi pata hai"
Kabir rolled his eyes as if in his own sass he leaned closer
"aree sasurji ko toh mai aise mana lunga" he said
"unhe milega kaha aisa hansome, successful daamad aur kon hi sambhalega unke ghar ki chandaal chudail ko"
She smacked his arm laughing despite herself
They ate together half smiling half laughing
He watched her like this messy fingers, bright eyes laughing freely somewhere without realizing he memorized the moment
Because this was her- the girl he fell in love with
Flashback ends
The memory dissolved quickly
Kabir sat alone in aviraj's cabin the hum of the ac only sound now
His phone still in his hand the old picture glowing faintly
His smile trembled looking at the picture
"meri dua" he whispered looking at her laughing photo
Slowly he locked the screen he leaned back staring up at the ceiling jaw clenched tight
A single tear slipped from the corner of his eyes
On the other hand
Miles away from Delhi
Meher sat at her desk reading the files in front of her
The office was quieter than usual the post lunch silence, the hum of the ac, distant typing from the other cabins
Sunlight filtered in through half open blinds, falling across the stack of case files she had been working on since morning, her pen lay untouched between her fingers
A soft knock broke her thoughts
"meher" her senior lawyer called gently stepping inside
He closed the door behind him
She straightened instinctively
"yes sir?"
He smiled but there was a calculation and thoughts behind it, measured and professional
He took the chair opposite her desk
"the offer I told you about" he began making meher's jaw clench her fingers curled into fists knowing what was coming
"sir I already-" before she could complete he cut in
"meher I know but be practical it's a delhi firm, very reputed, strong political briefs, high profile cases and they have specifically asked for you transfer request"
Her fingers tightened around the pen
She didn't say anything at first
Just looked at him her expression neutral trained well enough not to react
"khud chala jaa itna hai toh" she said but stopped herself
"they are impressed with your recent work" he continued
"your drafting arguments...this could be a big jump meher, delhi exposure can change career"
She inhaled slowly steadying herself, ofcourse it was delhi, and ofcourse it was sudden and of course it had her name and she very well knew why
"I will think about it" she said calmly
Her senior studied her for a moment
"I expected that" he admitted
Then his tone softened losing the official edge
"but I should tell you this- not as a senior but as someone who actually wants you to do well"
She met his gaze now
"if you decline" he said carefully
"it might complicate things for you here not directly but you know how I mean"
And there it was- she knew it warning wrapped in concern
"no pressure" he added quickly
"but think smart"
She nodded once
"I understand"
He stood offering a reassuring smile
"take your time, let me know"
As the door closed behind him the silence rushed back in
Meher leaned back in her chair eyes drifting to the ceiling
A tired sigh escapes her lips
She let out a small humourless huff
"itna bevkoof samja hai tumne Kabir as if I wouldn't know"
Her gaze dropped to her hand resting on the table
The ring she saw it
Simple, old, worn smooth with time
She wore it with the promise to herself to never see back again but here she was again standing between her past choices and future
Her thumb brushed over in unconsciously memory rising to her mind making her eyes moistened
Kabir- ofcourse it was him
She knew it was him- he always did this moved pieces quietly, believed outcomes justified methods
Her jaw tightened
"I hate you" she muttered fingers curling into a fist her nails digging into her palm
"I was an idiot to believe you back then but abb nahi Kabir... you have yourself built this meher" she thought
She closed her eyes briefly
Delhi meant him, his world, his terms
And that was exactly why her chest felt tight
"ye kahani phir shuru nahi hogi kabhi nahi" she whispered
She opened her eyes again, resolve slowly settling in
"you don't get to decide for me not anymore"
But even as she thought her mind was racing with him- his memories
Some wounds don't bleed loudly they just ache quietly
Delhi:
Aviraj stepped out of his cabin and into the waiting hall where people have already gathered
There were about 15- 20 people men and women of different ages
Some held folded papers, some clutched files worn thin at the edges, a few had nothing with them except the frustration clearly written on their faces
The room smelled faintly of dust, sweat and impatience- the people who had been waiting for too long to be heard
The moment they saw him murmurs stopped
He didn't walk past them; he stood there in front as if ready to hear each one calmly
"namaste" he said simply
That alone shifted something among people
An elderly man stepped forward first voice trembling but firm
"sir hum pichle do saal se paani ke liye arzi de rahe hai, file aage badhti hi nahi" he said voice low
Aviraj nodded once, looking at him no interruption, no defensive explanation
"aap log sab baithiye aaj sabki baat suuni jayegi" he said voice calm but serious
Everyone nodded agreeing and sat on the chairs arranged
"kaunsa block?" aviraj asked
"ward 14" the old man replied
He turned slightly to his assistant
"ward 14 water supply proposal. Last movement?" he asked
"six months ago sir contractor approval pending"
Aviraj's jaw tightened
He looked back at the man
"aap pareshaan naa ho aaj shaam tak mujhe written update milega aur agar kal tak pipeline ka inspection start nahi hua we will cancel the contractor's tender"
The man blinked, surprised for a moment
"sir sach? Bhaut Umeed se aaye hai aapke-" as old man was saying aviraj met his eyes steadily
His voice calm but reassuring
"aap zyada naa soche saara kaam ho jayega" he said
Next came a young woman barely in her twenties holding a stack of paper
"sir primary government schools ka fund rok diya gaya hai bachon ka khana-"
"which scheme code?" aviraj asked immediately
She hesitated than read out but he held out his hand for papers and scanned them himself
"this file" he said calmly "teen din mei reject hui without reason"
His assistant nodded
"yes sir"
Aviraj handed back the papers to her gently
"aap kal subah yahi aaiyega, mere naam se sign jayega bachon ka khana nahi rukega or naa unki padhayi" he reassured tone firm and professional
Her eyes welled up shock and relief crashing together
She nodded repeatedly unable to speak
One by one everyone came
Broken roads that existed only on paper
Streetlights installed but never connected
Compensation promised after floods that never reached the families
Aviraj listened to everyone calmly, not once did he glanced at his watched not once did he dismiss any complain
He listened carefully, tried to solve everything he can as a person in the position
Suddenly a middle-aged man finally snapped voice raised his month's of patience spilling in his anger
"sab neta bolte hai, par hota kuch nahi hai!!"
The room went still for a moment
Aviraj didn't react aggressively, he didn't assert authority
He knew where all this was coming from
When the security behind him tried to step forward he stopped them silently
He himself stepped closer instead
"aapka gussa jaayaz hai" he said evenly
"aur mai ye nahi bol raha aap mujh par abhi hi bharosa kare kaam pura zarur hoga aapke saamne, phir aapka faisla aapke haanthon mei hai"
For a second the man faltered
"I wont promise miracles" aviraj continued
"magar mai itna bol sakta hu kaam karaya jayega jitna humse ho sake, aur jo kaam ruka uska aap sabko written reason milega aur jo paisa chori kiya jaa raha hai - who bachega nahi-
-aur aap bhi yahi hai mai bhi"
There was something in his tone- something quite lethal a certainty that gave everyone a hope
People exchanged glances
Hope didn't bloom loudly it settled cautious but real
As everyone began to leave one of the women turned back hesitantly
"sir neta toh bhaut aaye magar aap sach mei hume sun rahe hai" she said voice hopeful
Aviraj nodded once
"isliye hum yaha baithe hai"
When the room finally emptied almost half a day was went like that him listening to people's problems
His assistant came forward
"sir meeting-"
"cancel" aviraj said moving back to his cabin
"People have waited longer than those investors ever could"
He said as he sat down in his desk his fingers already reaching foe the files
His irritation hadn't vanished but it had sharpened into something clearer
This was why he needed that ticket
This was why the fight was necessary
He wanted to give these people what they needed their basic necessities that were being snatched from them
And he knows he will anyhow
On the other hand
The hospital corridor buzzed with its usual controlled chaos- patients families waiting, stretchers rolling past, nurses calling out vitals, monitors beeping in uneven rhythms
Kaashvi moved through it all with practised ease, her white coat swinging lightly as she checked files, signed notes, gave quick instructions
She was already three rounds in
"bp stable continue meds"
"shift to radiology in 20 minutes"
"yes I will write the reports"
She was focused, grounded, in her doctor mode
As she turned toward the physiotherapy ward something cut through her routine making her pause for a second- a raised male voice, sharp, irritated too loud for a space meant for recovery
Kaashvi slowed
"...kitni baar bola hai seedha chalna seekhna hai time waste karati ho bass" the man barked
Kaashvi stopped completely
Inside the physiotherapy ward a man in his late forties stood near parallel bars visibly angered
His voice echoed, harsh and humiliating
Infront of him stood a young woman in early twenties at most wearing the hospital's assistant worker's apron
Her shoulders were tensed, hands clenched, eyes lowered but glistening
"I told you to support me properly!" the man continued
"tum log ko salary milti kis baat ki hai? Agar kaam aata nahi-"
That was enough for kaashvi to break her silence
"enough"
Kaashvi said her voice wasn't loud but firm and cold
The ward went quiet as she stepped in calm but firm eyes fixed on the man her posture straight, controlled authority without aggression
The man turned surprised
"doctor-"
"she is doing her job" kaashvi cut in evenly "you are not going to speak to her like that"
The girl looked up startled her brown orbs glistening, eyes wide, her face slightly red but relief flickered across as she looked at kaashvi
"you don't understand" the man scoffed
"I am in pain and this stupid girl-"
"I understand pain" kaashvi said stepping closer her tone professional but firm
"what I don't understand is why you think pain gives you permission to insult the hospital staff"
The man opened his mouth and then closed it again
Kaashvi turned briefly to the girl
"ruhi what happened?"
Ruhi hesitated for a moment and then spoke softly
"sir's knee gave way during the exercise I asked him to pause and rest but he continued"
Kaashvi nodded once then looked at the man again this time eyes firm
"Physiotherapy is a process" she said
"it requires patience and cooperation if you fell it's because you rushed that not our mistake"
His face reddened
"so abb galti bhi meri hai?"
"aapko samaj nahi aayega padhe likho ki baat hai par haa aapki hi hai" she said without hesitation
There was a beat of silence
Her gaze didn't waver just clear
"and let me be very clear" she continued voice steady
"you cannot disrespect anyone here doctor, nurse, assistant. if you have concern raise it calmly hum aapke liye hi hai yaha but we are humans too and if you shout again, I will personally recommend to discontinue your sessions aur bhaut hospitals hai delhi mei"
The man shifted uncomfortably suddenly aware pf the eyes on him - the weight of being called out
"fine" he muttered
Kaashvi stepped aside slightly gesturing toward the bed
"please sit, we will reassess after you have rested"
He sat grumbling under his breath but silent not daring to speak now
Only then kaashvi turned to ruhi again taking her
"you did nothing wrong" she said to her walking out with her
"don't doubt yourself aur aise logo ko jawaab de diya karo ruhi"
The girl swallowed nodding
"thankyou ma'am"
Kaashvi just a fraction
"abb mujhse sun legi tu kitni baar bola hai ye ma'am ma'am matt kiya kar jub sirf hum ho"
Ruhi looked at her smiling with gratitude
Kaashvi knows ruhi from the first day, she knows how innocent and introverted she is that too handling college and a part time job together in such a small age the day she talked to her the both instantly formed a friendly bind kaashvi helped ruhi whenever she needed and ruhi listened to her rants during break hours
They both walked towards the staff room talking
They walked together ruhi pushing a wheelchair towards the storage room while kaashvi flipped through mental checklist of her next rounds
That's when a nurse hurried toward them
"dr. kaashvi" she said slightly breathless
"dr. Malhotra is calling you ot ke baad discussion hai she is waiting"
Kaashvi's stomach dropped hearing her name
"aree yaar ye Dracula doctor inhe humesha mera khoon chahiye hota hai" she thought
Her eyes widened as if she realised something
"file shit" she muttered panic slipping in
She froze mid step
Quickly checking her bag, panic started rising in her
"kanha jii" she whispered rumbling through her bag
Ruhi blinked tilted her head
"bhool gayi?" she asked innocently but concerned
Kaashvi groaned pressing her fingers to her forehead
"Monday hai brain abhi boot hi nahi hua avi ne bola bhi tha raat ko-" she said remembering she asked him to remind her and he did remind her but still she being she forgot
"dr. kaashvi aviraj singh" a voice came from behind
And hearing it kaashvi sighed in relief
Ruhi hearing the voiced turned first eyes widening slightly
Kaashvi slowly looked over her shoulder relief spreading her face
And there he was
Advik with his usual charm
Perfectly relaxed, in his black jacket sunglasses hooked at the collar of his t shirt
Advik barely had time to react before kaashvi reached him
"dholkiiii" she breathed out in pure relief
"tu yaha"
He chuckled already lifting the file slightly waving it like a trophy
"aapka dimag ghar par reh gaya tha Bhabhi, raj bhaiya ne bola jaake dimag or file dono de aa"
Ruhi looked at them her eyes subtly widened at word Bhabhi
Kaashvi snatched the file from him relief flooding her face
"thankyou thankyou kitna pyara pati hai mera" she said
Advik rolled his eyes
"haa dono miya biwi ek dusre se romance karo or yaha mediocre ko hi bhul jao"
"aree chal chal jaise mujhe pata nahi tune unse badle mei kuch maanga hoga mere bhole pati ko loot leta hai" she said
"haa haa kya mazak kiya hai" he said making her mock glare at him
She smacked his chest lightly and without thinking leaned his giving him a quick side hug
Advik casually wrapped an arm around her shoulder walking with her
"bhaiya ne bola tha subah hi" he added lazily
"madam ko deke aaiyo warna pura hospital sar mei uth jayega"
Kaashvi rolled her eyes but smiled
As they walked advik's gaze shifted and for a moment he stopped
"aree" he said slightly recognition flashing in his face as he looked at ruhi
"aree miss kit kat?" he said grinning tone casual too familiar for ruhi's liking
Ruhi who had been standing there nervous now froze for a moment hearing his voice that too that irritating name
Her shoulders stiffened instantly she adjusted the strap of her bag nervously eyes flickering up for barely a second
"h-haan" she nodded softly "hello"
Kaashvi paused mid step brows knitting as she looked from one to the other
"wait- you both know each other?"
Ruhi opened her to explain clearly nervous a little and unsure
Advik cut in smoothly
"aree chotu Bhabhi same college" he said easily shrugging
"mai senior ye sharmili junior"
Ruhi's cheeks warmed immediately
Kaashvi blinked then nodded
"ohh accha"
Before ruhi could say anything else kaashvi glanced at her watch panic flashing across her face again
"shit- ot" she muttered already stepping back
Then she turned to ruhi quickly
"waise ruhi tum advik ke sath hi college chali jao na tumhari shift toh khatam ho gayi hai kya hi abb auto dhundogi"
Advik hearing her raised an eyebrow looking at kaashvi
"command or request?"
"command hai chal jaa usse leke" kaashvi replied
He laughed
Ruhi's eyes widened
"n-nahi mai-"
"haa chalo mai bhi college hi jaa raha tha" advik interrupted instantly flashing that confident smile as if decision was already made
Ruhi looked flustered caught between refusing and not wanting to seem rude
She glanced once more at kaashvi who was already halfway turned away
"theek hai" kaashvi said backing away to the corridor
"dhyaan se jaana aur advik speed kum" she said
Advik saluted dramatically
"yes ma'am"
And just like that kaashvi disappeared down the hallway her footsteps hurried mind already shifting
The silence that followed felt louder
Ruhi stood awkwardly beside advik clutching her bag strap shoulders slightly hunched
Advik glanced at her
"relax" he said lightly "I don't bite waise bhi mujhe meetha nahi pasand miss kit kat"
She gave a tiny awkward smile
"pata hai"
"good" he said
"chale?" he asked
Ruhi hesitated then nodded slightly
"thank you"
As they walked out together advik slowed his pace to match hers
"you still don't talk much" he said
Ruhi shrugged
"you still talk too much"
He laughed again loud easy and unbothered
As they walked, he opened the exit door for
Ruhi hesitated for a moment then walked ahead while he followed
Her heart suddenly beating a little too fast for a normal Monday
Advik stopped beside his bike with an ease that came too naturally to him, like the road belonged to him
The black bike stood gleaming under the afternoon light
Ruhi stood a little to the side, hands clasped in front, shoulders slightly hunched
She looked like she wasn't sure whether to step closer or disappear back to the hospital
Advik swung a leg over his bike casually settling onto the seat like he had all the time in the world
He glanced back at her, his hair messy, grin perfect on place
"baitho miss kit kat" he said lightly tapping the seat behind him
"khush kismat ho tum sabko meri chandni ka safar Naseeb nahi hota"
Ruhi blinked looking at him then frowned slightly
"chandni?"
She asked genuinely confused her voice soft
Advik's grin widened he leaned forward a little and patted the fuel tank lovingly
"haan" he said in mock seriousness
"mera pyar meri najayaz biwi"
He looked down at the bike like it might actually blush
Ruhi looked at him and let out a small surprised chuckle before she could stop herself
For a moment the sound made advik stop
He turned his head slightly to look at her his grin softening into something softer
For a second he didn't joke or didn't tease
Then he reached for the helmet from the handle
He lifted it and held it out to her
"pehle safety" he said tone lighter but careful
She looked at his hand and then at him
"par aap?" she asked seeing only one helmet
He shrugged
"tum pehno meri chandni mujhe nahi girati or main nahi chahta kisi ki aatma meri chandni mei bhatke toh lo"
Ruhi hesitated then stepped closer fingers brushing his as she took the helmet
Her cheeks were faintly pink, eyes lowered
Advik felt a sudden jolt of goosebumps with her faint touch as he gave her helmet
"thank you" she murmured
Advik watched her for half a second then looked away clearing his throat his neck warming
"pagal hai kya junior hai don't make her uncomfortable" he thought
Ruhi stood beside the bike but as she was about to wear the helmet her hair strands suddenly stuck in it
She frowned lips pressing together in quite frustration
Advik watched her for a few seconds amusement softening into something gentler
He leaned slightly on the bike then straightened
"ruko" he said
"may I?" he asked leaning forwards gesturing towards the helmet clear and simple giving her space if she wants to say no
She looked up at him startled for a moment then nodded small and hesitant
He stepped closer careful not to make her uncomfortable, slowly he removed he stuck strands carefully fingers brushing hers for a bare second
He turned it slightly right way then lifted it
"bas thoda baal piche kardo" he said quielt
She obeyed eyes flickering upto him for a moment before lowering again
He gently settled the helmet over her head adjusting it with patience- no rush, no jokes his fingers worked the straps checking the fir tightening jist enough
"too tight?" he asked
She shook her head "no... its fine"
He smile a soft curve this time not his usual grin
"perfect" he said
For half a second their eyes met hers wide, uncertain his steady and reassuring
Then he stepped back giving her space again
"baitho" he said lightly
She moved to the bike settling behind him carefully hand hovering in the air unsure where to place them sitting at a good distance from him
He glanced over his shoulder
"handle pakadlo piche wala yaa seat jo comfortable lage"
She nodded holding the handle
"chale?" he asked
"yes" she whispered slowly
Aadvik started the bike engine humming to life
"dar lage toh batana I will drive slow"
She didn't answer immediately
Then softly
"thank you"
He didn't look back but smiled
As the bike moved advik slowly reached his hand to side and tilted the rear-view mirror slightly
Ruhi sat behind him back straight as she looked around her eyes observing the surrounding her hands clutching the handle tightly
A small smile tugged at his lips
"relax" he added voice easy
"asie baithi ho jaise viva dene jaa rahi ho"
She looked at him
"i- I don't sit on bikes often" she admitted almost apologetic
He nodded understanding
"waise hospital mei kyu thi?" he asked genuinely curious
Ruhi hesitated for a second before answering
"work" she said softly
"Physiotherapy ward mei part time"
Her voice was low
Advik glanced at her through the mirror again
"woah kaam or college dono impressive miss kit kat" he said genuinely impressed
She blinked surprised but smiled
"waise you still write poetry?" he asked casually
Her head snapped towards him
"aapko kaise pata?"
He smiled eyes on the road
"tumhari notebook ek din giri hui thi library mei maine socha tha de du but tum mili nahi toh librarian mam ko de di thi" he said
"ohh unhone bass bola koi de gaya bataya nahi tha aap thae...thankyou" he said
He nodded
"so you still write them?" he asked
She hesitated for a second
"haan kabhi kabhi" she said softly
"jab dimag zyada bhar jaaye its easier than saying things out loud"
Advik glanced at the mirror again not staring just enough to catch the way her eyes softened when she spoke about it
His tine stayed light but something in it warmed
"good" he said simply
"jo likhte hai who usually zyada feel karte hai"
She stared at him she wasn't used to compliments like that like quite without expectations
A small shy smile curved her lips
The rode for a few seconds in comfortable silence wind brushing past the city moved around them
Then gathering a bit of a courage ruhi spoke again
"aap abhi bhi gaate ho?" she asked carefully
"matlab college fest ke baad suuna nahi"
This time he actually chuckled low and easy
"haa" he replied
"jaise tum sharmana nahi chord sakti mai gaana nahi chord sakta"
She looked at him smiling softly
"toh aap likhte bhi ho yaa sirf gaate ho?"
he thought for a second before answering
"likhta bhi hu" he said
"par farq itna hai mai shor likhta hu tum shayad khamoshi"
The words surprised her she hadn't expect him to understand like that
She looked at his back at the easy way he handled the bike the confidence he carried naturally and for the first time she didn't feel invisible
"kabhi sunana" he said casual but sincere
"tumhari poetry"
Her breath caught for half a second
"kya aap gaana sunayenge?" she said before she could stop herself
He looked at her surprised for a second then smiled
"deal" he said
"miss kit kat"
"do you still make fun of people?" she asked
He laughed raising eye brows at her
"I tease there is a difference"
She studied him really looked at him the easy smile, relaxed posture, the way he filled space without demanding still careful to not make her uncomfortable
"you are not like this in college" she said
"because you never stayed long enough to notice" he replied gently this time
The bike eased forward smooth and steady carrying two different silences - hers shy and guarded his unexpectedly careful but with his usual carefree self
The college gate came to the view the bike slowed the familiar chatter of student heard
"suuniye" ruhi said slowly
"boliye" he said
"woh yahi rok di jiye sab dekh lenge" she said looking around
He looked at her eyebrows knitted but then nodded
Advik parked a little away from the main entrance, cutting the engine
Ruhi carefully got down adjusting her bag on her shoulder
She took off the helmet holding It with both hands she extended it towards him
"thankyou" she said softly eyes sincere
Advik took the helmet from her tilting his head with easy grin of his
"anytime miss kit kat" he said lightly
"par ek shart"
She looked at him confused
"shart?"
He leaned back against the bike hooking the helmet on the handle
"poems sunani hai" he said
"yaad rakhna deal hai"
Her lips curved into a small shy smiled she nodded once
"deal"
She turned then blending into the flow of student walking toward the building
Advik watched her go for a moment longer than necessary her quiet steps, head slightly down completely unaware the effect she had
Just as he was about to turn
Something on the road caught his eyes, a tiny glint under his bike
He stepped closer and bent down
An earring he saw it
Small, silver, delicate the kind that suited her and he remembered it was hers only
He straightened looking around
Ruhi was already gone
He exhaled a short laugh under his breath holding it
"great timing" he muttered
For a second he considered running after her but then shook his head
Instead he took his bike keys unclipped his bike's keychain and carefully looped the ear ring onto it
The silver caught the light as it settled there oddly right
"baad mei de dunga" he said to himself
"sahi hai tab tak mujhe key chain mil gaya" he said shrugging
He kept the keys in his pocket and walked inside unaware that it wasn't just silver he was carrying
A few hours later
Night had already settled deep by the time aviraj reached home
The house was quiet, everyone probably gone to bed
He stepped inside loosening his tie, his coat hanging in his arm, hairs messed up
His eyes went to the staircase then towards their room upstairs, no light spilling from their room made his brows furrowed
He walked up two steps at a time now
The bedroom door was slightly open he pushed it open fully
And it was empty
She wasn't there like she usually is mostly reading her novel or reading her medical books
The bed was untouched still the same he left it in the morning
Her bag wasn't there, no scrubs or dupatta thrown carelessly on the chair like she usually did when she is tired
His jaw tightened
He knocked the washroom hoping she would be there
"noor" he called once
But no voice came
He pulled out his phone there were no missed calls from her, his message he sent wasn't seen till now
His thumb hovered over her name
But nothing
That's when unease crept in something heavier settling in him
A quiet controlled concern settled in his chest
She always told him when she will reach where she was but today there was nothing
He glanced at the clock
10:58 pm
Too late for her usual time
"she haven't come yet" he muttered under his breath
No second thought followed. He quickly grabbed his care keys, phone and wallet movements fast, sharp and efficient
The calm on his face didn't waver but his hurried movement showing his concern
Within minutes the car engine roared to life as he left the mansion
The city lights blurred past him as he drove, one hand tight on the steering when the other holding his phone trying to call her again and again
His mind replaying her again and again
For a moment he hated not knowing
Not because of control but because she mattered and he cared
The hospital building came into view its light still bright in the darkness
He parked the car not caring where and stepped out hurriedly walking in with purpose
Nurses glanced up, some recognized him, some straightened unconsciously
The hospital at night felt nothing like it did in mornings
The corridors were quieter lights dimmed into softer white
Aviraj walked in with long controlled strides but the tension in his shoulders visible
His eyes scanned everywhere
He spotted dhruv near the nurse's section scribbling something on a file
"raj" dhruv said the moment he looked up already reading the worry written all over him
"kya hua?" he asked
"kaashvi where is she?" he asked voice firm his concern and worry clear
"relax she is here" dhruv said
Aviraj exhaled for the first time since he parked the car not fully relaxed but no longer panicking
"she didn't answer my calls, didn't see messages" aviraj said voice low
Dhruv gave a small understanding nod
"she had 15 hours shift today, that too continuous emergency cases, one after another, by the time she got free her phone was probably dead or maybe she was too exhausted"
Aviraj's jaw tightened for a moment not in anger but for her already imagining her tired face
"is she okay?" he asled
Dhruv hesitated for a moment just enough for aviraj to know
"she is, she did her job perfectly" dhruv said carefully
"but it was a rough day for her, one case went bad her senior lost it on her, she didn't get proper breaks mood off hai uska thaki hai"
Aviraj heard it nodded once slow and steady
"kaha hai?"
Dhruv jerked his chin down the corridor
"physio wali side, staff room ke bahar hogi tu usse le aaiyo I am leaving"
Aviraj nodded and walked
The farther he went the quieter he got
He slowed his steps as he saw her
Kaashvi was sitting on one of the metal benches outside the ward, still in her blue scrubs
Her hair was messily tied, a few strands escaping and sticking to her temple
Her shoulders were slumped - tired in that deep bone heavy way that only doctors carried after hours ling shifts
She just sat there lost in her own thoughts
Aviraj stopped a few feet away just watching her for a moment
Taking her in relief crashing through him
But his chest tightened looking at her so lost- the woman who teased him, argued, planned snack dates sitting here quiet worn out
He stepped closer and she felt it before she saw him
Her head lifted slowly and when her eyes met his something in her expression shifted surprised at first then a quiet relief like coming to home after a long day
"avi" she said
"aap yaha" her voice was flat lacking her usual excitement
"yes" he replied calmly
"you didn't call, didn't reply and its 11 at night"
She exhaled sharply already done
"I was working"
"I know noor" his voice softer understanding her irritation
"dhruv told me but I was worried I called-"
Her jaw tightened
"I was working aviraj do you know how many times I heard my name today?" she cut in finally snapping the last thread holding her together breaking
"how many patients, relatives, seniors I have to listen? Fifteen hours no break, one patient collapsed during physio, one patient got worse and the senior she screamed like it was my fault-
She stopped breath uneven
"and then I see you ek pal ko shaant hui toh aap shuru ho gaye"
For a moment he just stood beside her it did hurt a little the way she took his full name, but he didn't raise his voice
"I was worried" he said quietly
Guilt tripping through her realising she was venting her irritation unnecessarily on him when he was just worried about her
She nodded silence stretched between them thick and uncomfortable
"I will bring my bag" she said quietly
Aviraj nodded following her silently as she moved toward the staff room, the soft click of her shoes echoing slightly in the empty corridor
She walked briskly, shoulders hunched, the lines of exhaustion clear on her face
He noticed the way her hair fell loose from her pony tail, the faint marks of wearing masks on her cheeks, her movement clearly tired
He didn't speak knowing she needs space his presence beside her grounding
His jaw tightened but eyes soft while she wanted to apologize to just get into his arms but something inside her stopped herself
He opened the staff room door for her as she moves and pulled her bag from the locker
He leaned against the wall arms crossed loosely but looking at her carefully
They moved quietly through the corridor no one speaking aviraj trailed a step behind her
Suddenly a woman approached them, still in her hospital gown cradling her new born eyes bright with gratitude
"dr.kaashvi" she said softly
Kaashvi stopped looking at her and smiled politely
"yes?" she said
"I just wanted to thank you for everything, I thanked the senior doctor earlier aap abhi mili toh....thank you so much for everything, for the care and the way you made me feel safe during the delievery"
Kaashvi froze for a moment then her face softened immediately professional calm and warmth merging seamlessly
"its my duty" she said gently
"I am so glad you both are doing well"
The woman extended the baby toward her and kaashvi's hand instinctively reached out
She lifted the new born carefully cradling it with practised ease
The tiny one fit perfectly against her chest
Noticing her having problem holding the bag now in her shoulder aviraj moved without a word
He stepped closer and took the bag gently from her shoulder fully
"I will take it" he said and she looked at him nodding and gave the bag
He held the bag in his hands
Kaashvi adjusted the baby gently her tiredness melting into something softer
"hey!" she murmured her voice dropping instinctively a small smile curving her lips
She rocked slightly
"kitne shaant ho aap" she added softly thumb brushing baby's tiny fist
The mother watched them with a small smile
Aviraj stood a little far away one hand holding her bag other resting loosely by his side
He watched her like the world had slowed down for him alone
She was exhausted but yet here she was unhurried, patient, sweet
He looked at her with the tiny little life in her arms
Her eyes soft as she looked at the baby, she made a soft sound to the baby and the baby responded with a tiny stretch making kaashvi laugh under her breath
For a moment aviraj's chest tightened
He knows she was used to it but for him- it was entirely different seeing her with a little one in her arms like this
His imagination from previous day came to his mind
A girl with her eyes and smile playing in his arms
Without drawing attention aviraj slowly slipped his phone out of his pocket
He framed it just right- kaashvi in her scrubs, hair slightly messy, a tiny life cradled in her arms
He quietly clicked a picture without getting noticed
The sound was barely audible he locked the screen immediately like he was hiding a secret meant only for him
Kaashvi handed the baby back
"take care checkups ka dhyan rakhna apna or baby ka" she told woman softly
"and if you need anything kabhi bhi you know where to find me"
"thankyou doctor" the woman said again before walking away
Aviraj just looked at her realising no matter how tried she was no matter how heavy her day was she never stopped being gentle
And that alone made him admire her more than words ever could
"chale?" he asked taking her hand in his one hand holding her bag other holding her hand finger sliding in his
She looked at him and nodded giving a small smile
As they neared the exit, he glanced at her feeling the pull of how utterly alive she made everything around him
Every step was deliberate, quiet, a mutual acknowledgement of the day's tension her exhaustion, his worry and the unspoken comfort of being together
Aviraj unlocked the care wand walked around opening the passenger door for her without a word kaashvi paused for half a second too tired to say anything and slid into the seat he closed the door gently then got in on the driver's seat
The engine started and silence followed
The city lights blurred past the winshield
She leaned her head back eyes half closed, exhaustion sitting heavy in her bones
Aviraj drive steadily both hands on the wheel
Few minutes passed, then ten no one spoke
She opened her eyes frowning slightly as the route felt wrong
"avi" she said voice low
"ye ghar ka raasta nahi hai"
He didn't respond
She turned her head to look at him his eyes stayed on the road, expression unreadable
She just sighed and leaned back letting him do whatever he wants
She looked out the window fewer buildings now, more open space the road thinning ahead
He didn't answer her just took a sharp turn off the main road the tyres crunched over the gravel the city noise faded behind them replaced by wind and quiet
The car slowed and the stopped
Kaashvi looked around
There were at the edge of a cliff, open and vast
The land dropped away infront of them revealing a wide stretch of darkness broken by distant scattered lights below
The sky above was deep, endless, the moon hanging low, cool and calm
Wind moved freely here, brushing against the car
"hum kaha hai avi?" she asked quietly confusion giving to way something softer
He didn't look at her immediately he stepped out first the night air sharp and quiet
Aviraj walked around the car and opened her door himself
Kaashvi looked up at him confusion still lingering exhaustion heavy inher eyes but she still took his hand when he offered fingers sliding into his
His grip was warm and steady
They walked together a few step, shoes and sandal crunching softly against the gravel until he sat down near the edge close enough to see everything and far enough to be safe
She looked at him sitting down now
She was about to sit beside him when he patted the space between his legs instead
She paused looking down at him as he looked at her
She looked at him and then at the space and then back at him
"avi" she started half amused half hesitant
He raised an eyebrow the corner of his mouth lifting just slightly
"relax nahi utha paogi mera fayda doctor" his tone teasing
It took her a second and then she realised
Her own words
Her lips curled despite herself as she looked at him smiling
"you never know" she muttered under her breath but stepped closer
Carefully she sat between his leg that were folded, her back settling against his chest leaning onto him her body finally relaxing after a long day
His arms coming around her waist
The wind brushed past them making her shiver
He noticed immediately
Without saying a word, he shrugged of his coat and wrapped it around her shoulders from behind pulling it snug enclosing her in warmth that smelled like him
She shifted slightly fingers catching the edge of his coat
"avi aapko thand lag jayegi" she said softly trying to pull it back twisting a little to look at him
Instead of listening she took the coat and tugged at it awkwardly taking it to her front attempting to stretch it wide enough to cover both of them
The fabric slipped one side falling of his shoulder the other barely covering her arms
She frowned clearly struggling like it was some stubborn blanket and she too wasn't ready to give up
"movie mei toh kar lete hai" she muttered complaining
A low chuckle vibrated against her back warm and quiet as he looked down at her struggling with her small hands with his coat
He caught the coat gently from her hands stopping her clumsy attempt
"movie mei logic bhi wahi chord dete hai beta" he said shaking his head lightly
Slowly he adjusted it properly one smooth movement and pulled it around both of the settling it so it rested over her shoulders and across his chest his arms naturally closing around her again
The coat still snug on her but now his warmth filled the gaps
"there" he murmured near her ear
She exhaled the tension finally leaving her shoulders
Her shoulders sank the moment his arms closed around her solid and warm one hand resting above her stomach other holding her one hand finger in her
Her back fit against his chest too perfectly as if this was where she was meant to end every exhausting day
Her chin hovered near her temple just enough to feel his warmth
The faint scent of him grounding her frayed nerves
She let her head fall back against his chest eyes closing on instinct
His thumb moved over her knuckles
"tired?" he asked quietly voice low like even words might weigh on her
She didn't answer with words instead her fingers reached down and curled around her wrist holding it there as if to say 'don't move'
That was enough
He exhaled against her hair a long breath he hadn't realised he was was holding all day
She shifted closer nesting closer
Her breathing slowed syncing with his
She stayed like that for a few seconds head resting against his chest
the wind humming softly around him, they city far below blinking
they sat together in the dark wrapped in the warmth in each other's arms
"avi" her voice came muffled and small
"I am sorry"
His body didn't stiffen, he didn't pull away
He didn't rush to reassure her he just listened to her exactly the way she needed
She lifted her head slightly eyes tired but honest
"maine bina soche aap par frustration nikaldi I know you were worried aur mai bas-" her voice cracked tiredness spilling out
"I am sorry"
He looked down at her calm and steady
"I know baby" he said simply no lecture, no ego
"you are tired 15 hours is a big thing you don't have to be sorry I understand
Its just...when you were not there my mind didn't do logic it goes to worst scenario" he said calmly
That did it
Something in her finally cracked
Not loudly just quietly
She shifted turning around fully now knees pressing into his thighs softly
She faced him now the coat slipped loose but she adjusted again tugging it around both of them
She wrapped her arms around his torso holding him like she had nowhere else who could understand her
She pressed her face into hic chest
"sab bure hai avi" she murmured voice trembling as if child telling problem
"sab"
He didn't interrupt his chin rested against the top of her head
One arm wrapped around her back firm and protective the other moving soothingly over her hair
"bol lo" he murmured near her temple
"I am here"
Her fingers curled into his shirt as if anchoring herself in his arms
"aap mujhe yahi rakho mujhe nahi jaana kahi kisi ke bhi paas" she said
He tightened his hold just a little enough for her to feel it
"kahi nahi jaa rahe baccha" he said quietly voice steady like a promise
"naa tum naa mai hmm"
He tilted his head pressing his lips lightly into her hair
She shook her head against his chest
"aap aur main na kahi dur chalte hai avi ye sab chordke kheti karenge thoda paise kamayenge or aaram se rahenge" she said like a child planning
He let out a soft chuckle the kind that didn't mock but wrapped around her words gently
"accha?" he said amused warmth lacing his voice
"kiski kheti hmm?"
She lifted her head just a little still not leaving his hold eyes shiny but stubbornly serious like she had already planned their entire future in the last five minutes
"woh nahi jaanti mai wo aap socho" she said simply
He raised a brow looking down at her now interest genuinely increasing
"accha" he asked "aur kya kya karna hai madam?"
She straightened a bit sitting up between his legs but still holding onto his shirt one hand gesturing animatedly now
"dekho aap toh boss banoge" she said confidently
"subah uthke kheton ka chakkar, sabka hisaab aur jub thak jaoge ped ke niche charpai lagake baith jaana"
He laughed softly this time shaking his head
"aur tum?"
She puffed her cheeks slightly as if thinking
"mai subah aapke liye chai banaungi" she said
"phir thoda kaam, phir aapke liye lunch leke aaungi sharmate hue simple sa dal chawal sabzi, phir hum kheton ke bich romance karenge or shama ko milke count karenge kitna kamaya"
She paused then added more quietly teasingly
"aur raat ko" she said leaning closer to him
He looked at her knowing what she would say and he just rolled his eyes
"noor" he said trying and failing to sound stern
"aree mai bolri thi raat ko momo tikki ke sath khelenge tv dekhenge" she said innocently
"aapne kya socha avi" she said raising her eyebrows eyes shining
He shook his head smiling despite himself
Something in his expression shifted, amusement softened into something deeper he reached up tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear slowly
Even though these were just silly talks but a future with her filled with calmness- he imagined it
Them sitting together
A small girl and boy running around them
He pulled her back against his chest arms circling her firmly, chin resting on her shoulder this time
He snuggled closer to her head near her neck while she circled her arms around her
He stayed like that for a long moment
Breathing her in letting his head quiet down
His chin rested on her shoulder lip brushing the shell of her ear as he spoke softly almost to himself
"tum aise bolti ho" he murmured voice low
"toh lagta hai sab kuch sach mei chordke le chalu tumhe"
She shifted just enough turning her head to glance at him from the corner of her eye
"haa lekin dekhlo khana aap bana lena warna dono maggie par zinda rahenge" she said
He chuckled tightening his arms around her
"avi" she said lowly
"hmm" he hummed
"kabhi aisa ho juba aap thak jao jab lage abb bass aur nahi ho raha-"
Before she could complete he cut in
"tum bass mujhe pakad lena baaki duniya mai sambhaal lunga"
Her breath hitched just a little
He lifted his head a little looking in her eyes now
"pakad ke rakhogi?" he asked softly
She nodded both hand fisting into his shirt forehead resting against his chest
"chordungi hi nahi jaaneman phans gaye ho aap"
He smiled lowering his forehead to hers
The sat together looking at the sky filled with stars in each other's arms
"aree khet se yaad aaya bhaiya ko call karna bhool gayi mai unki missed call thi aaj" kaashvi said remembering
Aviraj looked at her
"khet se tumhe woh kaise yaad aaya" he asked
"khacchar jaisi shakal leke ghumte hai wahi yaad aayenge na khet se" she said sarcastically
Aviraj shook his head listening to her
Her smile faded as quickly as it come the easy sarcasm slipped away leaving a quiet that felt heavier
Aviraj noticed it immediately
She had gone still in his arms no teasing no muttering just quiet
He tilted his head slightly voice low and careful
"kya hua?" he said softer and more certain
"yaad aa rahi hai?"
She didn't answer right away
Her fingers just traced the back of his hand looking down
She let out a slow breath
"kabhi kabhi" she said not dramatic just honest
"bohot zyada yaad aati hai"
He didn't interrupt her just stayed behind her holding her
"I miss everyone sometimes" she continued quietly
"maa ke sath shaam ko baithna, pata hai me and bhai we still used to fight over tv" she said quietly a soft chuckle leaving her lips
"and meher ofcourse roz raat ko scooty leke nikal jaate thae hum" she said remembering the memories
"and hope- mere bacche" she said
Her lips curved into a small smile
"pata nahi kya kar rahe honge.... Shayad kisi ne homework nahi kiya hoga, shayad koi chocolate ke liye lad raha hoga"
She swallowed
"and then" her voice dipped
"papa"
Aviraj's jaw set looking at her but he said nothing
"pata nahi unhone hume maaf kiya hoga yaa nahi sabse toh baat ho jaati hai unse-" she said but stopped
She shrugged lightly like she was trying to brush it off
That was when aviraj moved
He slid his palm to her back grounding her his thumb pressing slow, steady circles as if reminding her she wasn't alone
He rested his cheek against her temple his voice calm
"you are the strongest noor"
She didn't look at him but leaned into his chest a little more
He didn't say much just let her be in his arms and give her the silent comfort
Her fingers tightened in his shirt again
"ye sab chordo" she said softly
"I wanted to ask you something"
He looked at her nodding
"vivaan kon hai?"
As she asked the change in his was immediate
His chest rose a fraction than before
His eyes drifting away from the stars to something far more distant
Kaashvi felt it the change in him
She didn't push it just waited for it to tell himself
He exhaled slowly like he had been holding something for years and didn't know where to put it
"we were best friends since childhood" he finally said voice low stripped out of its usual authority
"bachpan se jub bolna bhi nahi aata tha dhang se school, ghar sath stah kuch log kehte thae bhai ho kya"
A faint humourless smile touched his lips
"bhai jaise hi thae bina bole samaj jaate thae alag thae bhaut but phir bhi.."
Kaashvi just took her hand in hers as if silently saying 'I am listening'
She didn't interrupt
"phir" he paused fingers flexing once against her waist
"ek din everything changed"
The wind passed again but this time she didn't shiver she was too focused on him
"koi fight nahi thi" he continued
"he just stopped talking, Dheere dheere the distance increased, saamne hote toh it was like we didn't know each other"
His voice hardened slightly
"woh ruka nahi or mai rok paaya nahi"
Kaashvi's hand slid upto his forearm fingers curling gently grounding him
"kabhi kabhi nafrat aasan hoti hai" he said quietly
"kam se kam reason hota hai yaha toh bass khali jagah reh gayi hai"
He stopped speaking
The silence that followed wasn't heavy it was just honest
For the first time they both showed each other their vulnerable part
The side aviraj hid from everyone for first time he opened up
Kaashvi leaned her head against his shoulder cheek brushing his collarbone
She squeezed his arms once more
"aapka fault nahi hai avi jub koi bina wajah chale jaaye uss bojh ko Zindagi bhar nahi uthana chahiye"
Aviraj looked down at her then- the softness in her eyes, the quieter strength
"tum toh nahi jaogi?" he asked
She lifted her head slowly just enough to look at him
The wind still tugged at her hair, stars reflecting softly in her eyes
She didn't answer immediately
Instead she reached up cupped his face with both hands- warm and steady
Her thumb brushed faintly against his jaw
She lifted herself a little tilted her face up pressing a soft kiss on his forehead, then coming down to his cheek slow and deliberate her lips warm against his skin
She pulled back just enough to look at him
"bandh gaye ho mere sath avi mai chordke jaane wali nahi hu" she said quietly, firmly
Her palm stayed cupping his face
"abhi toh budhape tak sath rehna hai honeymoon jaana hai, phir momo ko school le jaana hai, uski ptm mei jaana hoga, phir college, phir uski shaadi karni hai abhi toh bhaut kuch hai avi aur iss Janam kya agle saare janmo ke liye"
She leaned in again resting her forehead against his
His breath hitched slightly
She now understood the reason behind the walls he has built around his heart; the reason he doesn't let anyone make him feel much
He closed his eyes
Arms tightening around her pulling her closer
They stayed like that
No grand promises no dramatic vows
Just two people choosing to stay
Suddenly kaashvi shifted
She straightened slipping out of his arms, standing up infront him so abruptly that he frowned in confusion
She stood infront of him looking down at him
"noor?" he asked looking up at her
She turned extended her hand toward him- palm open eyes bright now a spark of excitement replacing heaviness
"uthiye" she said
"kuch karna hai"
He raised a brow suspicious but amused
"kya?"
"uthiye na avi" she insisted
After a beat he gave his hand in hers
She tugged him up gently but decisively and as he stood she was already reaching for his phone
Before he could ask or say anything she unlocked it scrolled quickly and pressed play
Soft music filled the air- not loud, not dramatic just something slow, warm, intimate

Dil leke dard e dil de gaye Hmm
Dil leke dard e dil de gaye
Tum jan jan kehke meri Jan le gye
He looked at her being amused
"seriously?"
She smiled stepping closer placing one hand on his shoulder the other still holding his loosely
"bilkul"
She guided his hand to her waist herself fingers curling with his as if saying "just enjoy"
The slowly started moving with the rhythm, just slow saying side to side
Hey, Hey, Humse humari pehchan le geyi
Hmm, Hmm humse humari pehchan le geyi
Tum jan jan kehke meri jan le geyeyi
She took a small step back first still holding his hand creating just enough space for him to look at her
The wind tugged her hair strands slipping loosely around her face and the faint music blended into the quiet night
Her forehead leaned against his chest first listening to his heartbeat
He lowered his chin brushing his jaw against her hair eyes closed for a moment as if memorising the feeling the world narrowed down to the space between them
She looked up smiling at him singing herself quietly with the lyrics
And that's when he got lost
Humne to socha na tha
Tum yoon kareeb aaoge
Jane yoon anjane mein
Tum meri ban jaoge
Her eyes weren't playful now not teasing just warm, honest
He forgot the song, the cliff, the politics, pressure, people. Forgot who he was supposed to be
She swayed in his arms smiling up at him
His thumb traced small circles at her waist
She leaned closer bodies aligning perfectly
He looked at her when the lyrics changed
Toone chede tar dil ke
Aachalein hum sath milke
Aachalein hum sath milke mere sanam
Tum dil se khwabon ka jaha le geye ho oo
Humse humari pehchan le geye
Tum jan jan kehke meri
jan le geye...
they turned slightly slow steps on the uneven ground he made her twirl smiling softly at her laughing freely
she laughed quietly when she almost stumbled and he tightened his arm around her
"careful baby" he murmured voice low
"I trust you" she replied just as softly
That single line hit him harder than anything else
They swayed again he slowly lifted her making her gasp while she locked her arms around his neck looking in his eyes
Their noses almost brushing
He could feel her breath warm against his skin
Her one hand slipped from his shoulder to his chest resting right over his heart
He held her there for second longer like he needed that weight, her in his arms
Her fingers tightened at the back of his neck
Slowly carefully he lowered her back down but didn't let go
Hid forehead touched hers, just breathing each other in
Then he lifted his head and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead as if she was something fragile and sacred
His lips brushed her temple next lingering there then her cheek was slow and unhurried
Each kiss landed like reassurance
She closed her eyes
When he finally pulled back only to wrap his arms fully around her pulling her into hic chest
One hand slid up her back the other settled at her waist
The wind moved around them, stars silent witnesses above the world far away
He rested his chin on her head fingers threading through her hair gently holding her like he wasn't planning to let go anytime soon
And for the first time after the exhaustion, the anger her body and mind felt relaxed
Not because things were fixed but because she wasn't carrying anything alone now
Later
She leaned back into the seat as the car rolled smoothly onto the empty road
The window beside her was open just enough for cold night air to brush her face
She rested her cheek against the glass, eyes unfocused, still carrying the warmth of his arms around her
Aviraj drove in silence
Suddenly kaashvi's phone vibrated
She glanced down lazily until she saw the group chat name lit up "eena meena deeka"
She straightened slightly thumb hovering
Ayra:
"okay so avi bhai ka birthday in 2 days kya plan hai"
Advik:
"bhaiya waise toh kuch karne nahi dete but iss baar toh Bhabhi hai toh batao"
Kaashvi smirked lips curving slowly as her eyes flickered from screen to him
The man driving beside her
Then man who held her when she broke
The man who listened her without trying to fix
The man who is strong enough for the world but aksed 'tum toh nahi jaogi' like her distance scared him
Her fingers moved
"kuch special jo sirf unke liye hoga"
Advi:
Apne bedroom ki baatein yaha naa karo yaha sab shareef hai
She rolled her eyes at his message
She locked her phone slipped it back into her bag and turned her head to look at him
The sharp jaw line, focus in his eyes
"iss baar" she thought
"I will make you feel seen, special"
Aviraj glanced at her briefly
"kya hua?"
She smiled "kuch nahi"
Already knowing what she will do
The car disappeared into the night carrying with it a promise she had done
Trying to lighten lives with my words
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