The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting soft streaks across the bed

It was barely 5 in the morning

Aviraj was still laying, the faint remains of last night’s chaos and small celebration lingering in the room- the scattered petals, cake smudges on sheets, the gift wrappers and boxes on floor, the faint scent of perfume still lingering

But something was different today

Kaashvi had already been awake for a while now, that too by herself other days usually aviraj is the one to wake her up but today, it was different  

She laid beside him, head resting on her elbows as she was looking at his sleeping figure for the past 30 minutes

She traced the rise and fall of his chest with a gentle finger, her eyes never leaving his face, looking at the quiet steadiness of him even in sleep

His brows were relaxed, jaw soft, a rare comfort on a man who usually carried a lot on his shoulders

Slowly she brushed her fingers through his hair, letting her thumb linger against the back of his neck

“kitne pyare lag rahe ho aise mei”

she murmured caressing his hair, her eyes soft

She stayed like that for a long moment watching him, memorizing him like this, so calm

He always carries the load of everything, thinking about everything and everyone but seeing him like this was unknowingly calming her too

Every little detail the way his lashes rested against his cheeks, the slight curve of his lips even in sleep, his light stubble, his hair messed up still looking carelessly settled making him look even more breathtaking to her, the calm rise and fall of his chest, it all felt sacred to her

She leaned a little closer her fingers lightly brushing his temple her thumb stroking his jawline

The quiet in the room wrapped around them like a cocoon

A soft smile tugged at her lips as she whispered

“I could stay like this forever”

she whispered exhaling a slow breath looking at him

Her hand reached beside the bed for her phone

She hesitated just for a second- wanting to preserve the moment yet wanting to capture it to

Slowly she lifted her phone and pointed it at him, careful not to disturb the peace of his sleep

The camera shutter clicked softly each image a frozen moment of him unaware, completely relaxed and utterly her own

She tilted her phone framing his face in different angles, moving closer until she captured the curve of his lips as he breathed out, the soft light reflecting on his hair.

She applied a gentle filter one that made morning light glow like gold on his skin

She grinned softly at the image

Click, another angle came his hand resting near his head, fingers half curled

She zoomed slightly, capturing his jawline and the faint shadow of stubble there

She couldn’t help herself her heart swelling with affection as she clicked his pictures even with some ridiculously funny and cute filters

Every photo felt like a treasure a memory she wanted to hold closer

She sat back on her elbows for a moment scrolling through the images she had taken lips curling into a soft smile

“My perfect avi”

she whispered

She looked at him brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead

The faint sound of him stirring made her pause, his eye lashes fluttered and he exhaled slowly in sleep but still deep in his own world

Her hand lingered in his hair still tracing as if her touch could communicate the warmth of her thoughts

She leaned in and pressed her lips, a fleeting kiss to his temple brushing her lips against his forehead and her face softly caressing his face

“meri jaan”

she said softly against his temple voice barely audible

Even watching him like this she felt a quiet flutter of happiness, a mix of her feelings, admiration, and that deep familiar sense that she belonged to him just as much as he did to her

A soft groan rumbled from him as his lashes fluttered and his eyes cracked open heavy with sleep

The golden morning light caught the edges of his dark eyes, making him look impossibly soft even in the haze of half sleep

“noor….you woke up early?”

his voice was low and still hoarse in sleep

Kaashvi smiled brushing her fingers lightly through his hair

“just going to drink some water”

she said voice soft careful not to pull him fully awake

He blinked a few times still in a haze of sleep and muttered almost getting up

“tum ruko I will get it”

“no..”

she said firmly her palm gently pressing against his chest

“I will get it”

He tried to say something, a faint frown knitting his brows but she leaned closer fingers brushing over his temple, tracing the line of his jaw

“you sleep avi”

she murmured voice low and coaxing

Then as if claiming him again in quiet intimacy, she tucked the blanket carefully over his shoulders, smoothening it down making sure he was warm and comfortable

He let out a small sigh the tension in his body melting under her touch

“jaldi aana..”

he mumbled eyes closing again voice barely above a whisper

She pressed a small kiss to his temple once more

“I will”

she whispered back a soft smile playing on her lips

She leaned down brushing her cheek against his murmuring softly

“just… dream a little more baby”

His breath evened out again chest rising and falling in calm rhythm eyes slipping closed

She watched him for a heartbeat, letting the sight of him sleeping fill her

Then ever so slowly she eased herself out of bed careful not to make sound, her bare feet brushing the floor

She paused at the door, one hand on the frame glancing back at him

“I will be back soon” she whispered softly voice almost a breath

The room remained silent behind her aviraj wrapped in the blanket asleep completely unaware of the preparations his wife was making for him

With that she moved out and slipped into the kitchen the faint morning light following her as she moved quietly, already thinking about the breakfast she wanted to prepare for him, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement

For days she has been trying to learn the recipe of his favourite food after asking his mother

As kaashvi reached the kitchen it greeted her like an empty canvas

She paused taking a deep breath the last time she was here was her first rasoi and she clearly remembers what all happened and what could have happened if aviraj wasn’t there

Then she began setting out things carefully, ingredients, spices, the coldness of early morning wrapping in her determination

It wasn’t going to be perfect she knew that, but every motion was deliberate each small action with the intention of making him feel special, cherished, celebrated

she paused at the counter taking deep breath

her hands moving on instinct now, arranging bowls, ingredients with careful precision

“bass aaj sab sahi ho jaaye kanha jii uske baad pakka kitchen mei kabhi hamla nahi karungi”

she thought

She had spent the last two days practising, seeing his mother, noting little tips about spices, timing of cooking and of course the way he liked it

Today was the first time she would try it herself and the thought made her heart race every step felt monumental as if it was the most important success she wanted

Flour sifted, milk poured, sugar measured she moved quickly yet delicately trying to keep everything perfect

Every now and then she glanced at the small clock on the wall timing everything so that meal would be ready and she would be in the bedroom by the time he woke up

‘paranthas and halwa’ she thought

‘okay okay simple, comforting, his favourite’

She washed her hands, tied the apron and started kneading the dough

Her palms pressed into it slowly as if she were pouring all her intention into that soft mass

“ye slime jaisa naa ho jaaye kahi”

she thought

She remembered his mother’s words clearly

“aata zyada tight nahi hona chahiye beta tabhi parantha soft rahega”

“bas itna theek hai”

she murmured adding a little water to her fingers working carefully

The dough came together smoothly, she covered it and moved to the stove, putting the pan on low flame

“hadd hai ye log you tube mei toh aise karte hai or unka banaya aisa lagta hai ki swarg se banaya hua khana ho or mera…. Aadmi ka dekh ke paet kharab ho jaaye”

she thought but continued her work

Ghee went into the pan melting slowly releasing that unmistakable warm aroma

The halwa needed patience she knew it

She stirred the sooji gently, constantly afraid for even a second to look away

Her wrist ache slightly from constant stirring but she didn’t stop

“kanha ji mere haanth, inke liye kar rahi hu par baad mei inhi se haanth pair dabvaungi”

The colour changed slowly- from pale to golden just like she had been taught

She added sugar then mile stirring faster now, careful and focused

Her brows knit together in confusion, tongue peeking out slightly between her lips in concentration

“please Jalna matt”

she whispered almost pleadingly as if the halwa could hear her

She moved from stove to counter chopping, stirring, trying not to spill or overcook

The faint sound of morning birds outside, a distant car horn, the hum of refrigerator filling the kitchen with life

She added chopped dry fruits the halwa thickening beautifully now

She turned off the flame exhaling in relief a small victorious smile breaking out on her face

“waah kaashvi waah abhi tak sab sahi hai mai toh bolti thi master chef mei hona chahiye mujhe doctor nahi toh chef toh ban hi jaati”

she murmured to herself half amused half proud

A victorious smile broke across her face

Next were the paranthas

She looked at the dough and the stuffing she have prepared

Her eyes narrowing in playful confidence

“huh? Ye ye toh mere baaien haanth ka khel hai”

she scoffed dramatically  

She dusted the rolling board lightly with flour, picked up a small ball of dough

The stuffing went in just right and she sealed it neatly

As the first parantha hit the hot tawa with a soft sizzle her mood lifted completely

She started humming then softly singing under her breath

“unse mili nazar…

Ki mere hosh ud gaye”

Her shoulders swayed slightly as she flipped the parantha watching it puff beautifully, one by one, they came out golden perfectly cooked her confidence grew with every success

“oye hoye hu toh punjabiyo ki bahu paranthe toh banenge hi”

she thought smiling to herself

One by one the paranthas stacked up golden soft, slightly uneven but made with intention

“aisa hua asar

Aisa hua asar

Ki mere hosh udd gaye”

As she continued her confidence boosted

And then came the last parantha

She placed it on tawa, still humming still riding that quite high when suddenly as she went to flip it, her hand brushed the edge of hot pan

“ahh-!”

A sharp sting shot through her hand, her song cut off instantly

“mumaaaa mera haanth” she whined

She pulled her hand back, breath kissing through clenched teeth

Panic flickered through her- but only for a second

She moved fast, turning off the stove, opening fridge and grabbing an ice cube from the freezer and pressing it against her knuckles, then holding her hand under running water

“kaise bhool jaati hu” she whispered to herself

“bina kaand kiye chalti kaha hai meri”

“bass bass” she whispered to herself eyes squeezing shut as the sting hurt

“its okay zyada nahi hai atleast I prepared everything”

Her jaw tightened as she steadied her breathing waiting until the pain dulled to a manageable throb

That’s when she heard footsteps

“ye kya Khushbu aa rahi hai subah subha“

her mother in law’s voice came warm and curious

Kaashvi straightened immediately throwing the ice cube away drying her hands quickly hiding her slightly reddened hand

Turning around with a brightness that came a little too easily

“maa good morning” she said a little too cheerfully placing the last parantha with her other hand like nothing had happened

Chachi walking beside leaned in  

“ye humari bahu hai yaa master chef”

Kaashvi laughed softly a shy warmth rising to her cheeks  

Her mother-in-law walked closer amusement softening her features a warm light of admiration spreading across her face

“utha leti, sab akele karne ki kya zarurat thi”

Kaashvi smiled softly controlled hiding the faint sting still lingering in her hand she lowered her gaze for a second

“unke liye karna tha maa” she said softly

“I want to make his day special”

Chachi’s smile widened

“for him? You woke up so early”

Kaashvi looked at them and nodded eyes glowing as if question itself made her happy

Both women exchanged a glance their eyes sparkling with quiet emotion

“kitna sochti ho uske liye” her mother-in-law said her voice soft yet filled with warmth

Kaashvi felt a small flutter of pride and happiness herself but more than that…belonging

She waved the moment dramatically

“woh bhi toh sochte hai” she said with a playful sigh

“unse zyada kya hi soche koi maa dimag phatt jayega insaan ka” she said dramatically

Both women chuckled at her words shaking their head at her theatrics  

Chachi ji looked at the paranthas and halwa and then at her

“usse sirf taste nahi, teri mehnat bhi mehsoos hogi beta”

That made kaashvi smile, her eyes shining

Her mother-in-law caressed her head slowly

“humara raj kitna lucky hai warna jiss tareeke se sahab jii rehte hai laga nahi tha usse koi aise milegi”

Kaashvi looked at her and smiled the image of aviraj’s sleepy face flashed in her mind

“lucky toh mai hu maa” she said thinking about him and how her life has changed so much after him not only changed but settled  

Both women looked at her their expression softening

“accha abb bataiye aap sab kaisa bana hai?” she said

Chachi leaned over peeking into the pan

“sab bilkul perfect hai”

Kaashvi’s shoulders finally relaxed a little

“sach?”

When they nodded her relief was visible that she was able to do it for him

The kitchen was finally quiet again as everything was done

The paranthas stacked neatly, and covered the halwa kept aside after being covered.

Kaashvi wiped her hands took one last look just to be sure and then quietly made her way back toward the bedroom thinking about his reaction

“uthne wale honge” she thought

Her steps softened as she opened the door and looked inside

He was still asleep

The morning light fell gently across his face now

The blanket half draped over his waist; one arm tucked under pillow other on his side just where she was before

His breathing was slow, the deep sleep he rarely allowed himself

Kaashvi stopped just inside the room

A smile curved on her lips as she looked at him

She walked closer, sitting on the edge of bed just beside his sleeping figure, eyes tracing him with unguarded fondness

For a moment she simply watched him- this powerful man reduced to something soft, almost boyish in sleep just for her eyes

As she leaned closer, her shadow shifted

Slowly his lashes fluttered sensing the movement

Reluctantly his eyes opened- still heavy with sleep unfocused for a second his hand trying to find her moving on her side unconsciously

Then his eyes found her sitting closely

A faint smile tugged at his lips

“noor”

he murmured voice husky thick with sleep as if was still half asleep

“paas aao na”

She smiled shaking her head before she could respond his arm reached out dingers curling around her wrist gently but surely

With a soft pull he drew her down beside him, tucking her under blanket beside him holding her closer his arms around her waist as he covered both of them with blanket properly like it was the most natural thing in the world

“good morning” he said brushing his nose lightly against her temple

“good morning” she replied softly smiling against him

Her body settled against his, fitting into the familiar curve of him as if it has always belonged there

She lay on her side facing him now, her head tucked just below his chin, his arm snug around her waist, forearm resting at small of her back

The blanket cocooned them both warm and heavy shutting out the early morning chill and the world beyond the room

His other hand came up lazily fingers brushing her cheek then slipping into her hair thumb tracing a slow line along her temple his eyes still closed

His breathing was still deep, each exhaled warm against her forehead

She could feel the steady rise and fall of his chest beneath her palm

She shifted slightly adjusting herself closer, her knee brushing his, her toes tangling with his under the blanket

Suddenly her toes moved again, slow and deliberate this time barely grazing the side of his foot as of by accident

A light brush just for a second or two

She waited for a moment then, pretending to be innocent her face still tucked beneath his chin

Then she did it again

This time her toes traced the curve of his toe, lingering just long enough to be felt before sliding away, grazing the arch of his foot in an unhurried teasing line

The contact was feathering light almost lazy but intentional

His breathing changed

Not abruptly just enough for her to notice

The deep even rhythm faltered for a second, his exhale a little longer, chest rising a little slower than before

His brows twitched, the faintest crease forming between them, though his eyes remained closed

His toe flexed instinctively under the blanket reacting before his mind fully caught up

She smiled to herself

Encouraged she let her foot press a little more firmly now her toes curling gently around his, tracing up then retreating playing a quiet game

His arms tightened around her waist a silent warning wrapped in warmth

A low sound escaped him, as his chin dipped his lips brushing her hair

His hand in her hair stilled for a moment then resumed its motion

“noor..” he murmured voice rougher now still thick with sleep

She tilted her face up just enough to look at him eyes dancing her toes giving one last slow drag along his foot

“hmm?” she whispered being all innocent

He pulled her closer eyes still closed forehead resting against hers

“subah subah chuhiya jaisi harkat shuru kardi tumne apni”

he murmured softly fonder than accusing

She pulled back just enough to look at him properly now brows knitting together in exaggerated offence lips forming a perfect pout

“accha?” she said mock hurt dripping from her tone

“mai chuhiya?” she scoffed softly

“aur aap kya ho- ghode?”

Though his eyes were closed but amusement flickered across his face instantly

Before she could repeat any other dramatic line, his arm tightened around her waist pulling her flush against him burying his face into the curve of her neck breath warm against her skin his nose brushed there slowly

“meri shaitan chuhiya”

The words were low, intimate

She rolled her eyes dramatically but her smile betraying her, soft and helpless as her hand slid up to his shoulder

A quiet laugh escaped her muffled against his chest

“haa jaanwar bana do dono ko aaj ke din”

she said pretending to protest while settling even closer

He didn’t move away

Instead, he inhaled slowly deeply like her was memorizing her again his fingers threading through her hair lazily

She relaxed completely into him, her forehead resting against his collarbone

Her fingers lifted instinctively caressing his cheek her thumb brushing along his jaw with slow affection

He hummed quietly at her touch leaning more into it eyes half closed again relaxing into her

Then he frowned slightly

“noor” he mumbled voice still lazy

“tumhare haanth kitne thande ho rakhe hai”

Without thinking he moved a little and took her hand between both of his warm ones enclosing it fully rubbing his palms slowly over her skin to warm her up

Kaashvi hissed softly, as his hand touched the burn part

“aah!”

The sound was barely there but sharp enough

Aviraj froze listening to her

His eyes opened fully this time, all traces of sleep vanishing in an instant

He pulled back just enough to look at her properly concern flooding his features

“kya hua?” he asked immediately his grip loosening being careful now

“dard hua?”

His gaze dropped from her face to her hand, noticing the faint redness

His jaw tightened, worry cutting in him deep and fast

His eyes never leaving her hand

“ye kaise hua?” his voice now firm but concern visible in him

He stayed exactly where he was, now propped on his elbow the other arm still around her but everything about him changed in a second as he heard her hiss

The warmth was still there, the closeness was still there

But the ease was gone

Carefully he lifted her hand again this time slower like the smallest pressure might hurt her

His thumb hovered before touching the reddened patch barely grazing it

His chest tightened looking at it

And it hit him instantly the fact that this mark hadn’t been there last night

He knew her hands, knew every familiar line, every softness

And this was new, even the small pain on her body did something violent inside him

He should have known

Should have noticed soon

Should have asked why she was awake before dawn

His jaw clenched as his eyes moved from her hand to her face

She was already trying to smile it away like casual, too light like she always did when she thinks she is in problem

She tried to pull her hand back forcing lightness into her voice

“aree yaar” she said quickly waving it off

“aise hi ho gaya hoga, kuch nahi hai zyada”

That didn’t work

He didn’t buy it for a second

He sat up slightly eyes narrowing slightly in a serious way that made people tell the truth without being asked twice

“kaashvi”

he said quietly now voice lower steadier but concern sat heavy underneath

“jhoot matt bolo-

‘aise hi’ kuch nahi hota” he said calmly but there was stell under it

“tum paani lene gayi thi kaafi der pehle”

His gaze didn’t leave her face

“abhi bhi uthi hi hui thi”

Then softer but firm, more dangerous

“kal raat ko toh nahi tha ye”

She exhaled rolling her eyes lightly trying to dodge off the situation

“kya hai kyu subah subah detective ban rahe ho aap?” she muttered attempting a smile to make him melt

He didn’t smile back

He just looked at her steadily, waiting for her to tell

His silence did it

Kaashvi’s shoulder dropped a little she sighed defeated but fondly annoyed at his care

“accha theek hai” she said glancing away

“chhupa matt rehne dena kisi surprise ko, narkasur kahike”

She looked back at him then, eyes softer

“subah kitchen gayi thi aapke liye kuch special banane ke liye” she admitted with a small shrug

“dhyan nahi tha toh bass thoda lag gaya”

She shifted closer as if proximity could soften the moment

Their bodies were still aligned- her curled into his side, his arm tightening around her waist but his attention completely fixed on her face

Even though he wanted to scold her, say something he just couldn’t bring himself to

The fact that she woke up just for him, prepared something for him twisted something inside him

For a moment he didn’t react at all

Something deeper, quieter settled heavy in his chest

He looked at her face then at her hand again and then looked away jaw tightening

She woke up early

She who barely managed to wake up herself

She chose heat, oil, cooking in cold just so his day wouldn’t begin like every other day of his life

Not with work, files, expectations

But with care

His chest tightened unexpectedly

“kya karu mai tumhara”

he finally said quietly not scolding just overwhelmed

His hand reached out again gentler this time cradling her injured one carefully like it was made of glass

“kya zarurat thi iss sabki or bata deti, utha deti banana hi tha toh sath mei kar lete”

She smiled faintly

“accha aapke birthday par bhi aapse banwau
Or tension naa lo raat ko aapne hi mere haanth pairr dabaane hai”

she replied simply

He let out a slow breath something between a laugh and sigh shaking his head in disbelief as he pulled her closer

He didn’t say anything for a second

Just pulled her closer

Not in a dramatic way just suddenly, firmly like instinct had taken over before he thought

He wrapped both arms around her, drawing her closer to his chest, her head fitting right under his chin

One hand came up to cradle the back of her head, fingers spreading protectively, the other holding her close at the waist

He hugged her the way one holds a child too overwhelmed to speak

“kyu nahi suunti tum kabhi..”

he murmured into her hair voice rough, undone

“mera ziddi baccha”

His grip tightened for a moment like he was grounding himself through her warmth, his chin resting in her head

She could feel his breath slow against her scalp

She smiled against his chest, eyes closing arms looping around him just as securely

“kyuki agar sun liya”

she said lightly teasing but soft

“toh aapke liye pagalpan kaise pura hoga jaaneman”

He huffed a quiet breath that almost turned into a laugh

This girl, who planned everything for him, says things so casually not knowing the effect it leaves on him, she is his girl his noor

She shifted slightly peeking up at him eyes bright despite everything

“aur waise bhi
Mai ek samarpit patni hu mere praan priye, aakhir hu toh mai ek green forest wifey material”

That did it

A soft chuckle escaped him this time low and helpless

He shook his head pressing a kiss into her

She looked at him hearing his laugh

‘kanha jii aise hi khush rakhiyega mere avi ko chahe uske liye mujhe hazar baar aur dard sehna pade’

she thought keeping her head on his chest

“tum pagal kar dogi mujhe kisi din”

he muttered fondness threaded through every word

She shrugged dramatically settling more comfortably into his arms

“haw abhi tak nahi hue kya”

she said showing mock disappointment shaking her head

“ohho aur mehnat karni padegi”

He smiled against her head holding a little tighter

Slowly he pulled back, gently guided her hand back into his movements slow and deliberately careful now

He reached for the ointment from the bedside drawer unscrewing the cap quietly

“idhar do” he murmured

She watched him from under her lashes as he squeezed a small amount onto his finger tip, his touch was feathering light when he applied it, spreading the cool cream over the reddened skin with patient strokes as if rushing her hurt her more

His brows were drawn together in concentration jaw set not anger but just concern

Every time his pressed over the tender spot he leaned in slightly, and blew over it, soft breath warming and cooling in turns

“zyada dard hai?”

he asked quietly eyes lifting to meet hers

All this while she was just looking at him admiring his care, softness

‘haaye aise karenge toh mai 1-2 baar khud hi apna sar kahi thok du’ she thought  

She smiled instead of answering right away

Not teasing just admiring

The way his shoulders were curved protectively around her

The way his thumb barely grazed her skin afraid to cause pain

The way his usual authority had softened into pure care

She tilted her head, lips curling

“hmm..” she hummed thoughtfully

“serial jaise kardo na”

He paused mid motion

“kya?”

She looked at him innocently eyes bright voice light

“kiss” she said simply

“dard kum ho jaata hai”

For a second, he just stared at her, expression caught between disbelief and helpless fondness then his lips twitched despite himself

“tumhe har chiz mazak hi lagti hai na?” he muttered still holding her hand looking at the spot

She shrugged still smiling, she tried to laugh it off

“avi” she said lightly attempting casual

“aap aise react kar rahe ho jaise mera koi accident ho—”

Before she could even complete, he stopped her, not loudly not roughly

But instantly

His hand slid up, finger resting against her lips silencing the word before it could finish

His eyes now dark, steady locked onto her his expression stern and serious

“don’t” he said voice low and firm

“ye sab bakwas bol bhi matt dena”

The softness she had been wearing to lighten everything slipped off her face the moment she saw him like this, it wasn’t over reaction

It was his fear dressed as control

For a moment she went quiet

She realised, it wasn’t just care, it wasn’t just concern or worry it was his fear he never shows anyone

She remembered the night he asked her ‘tum toh nahi jaogi’ and in that moment she understood everything

It wasn’t him speaking but his fear, his past problems he has dealt with alone staying strong infront of everyone yet breaking inside

She didn’t argue

Didn’t joke, didn’t try to soften with a smile

Instead, she moved

Slowly deliberately like you approach something fragile

Her hand slid up his chest, fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as she leaned forward and wrapped her arms around him, she didn’t pull hard she didn’t rush just enough to say I am here, just enough closeness to ground him

“avi” she murmured now gentler and honest

She guided him back gently until they were lying against the pillows her back against the headboard and his over her in sideway, he didn’t resist

The moment they settled something in him gave in; his arm came around her automatically holding her

She adjusted herself so his face rested against her chest, right over her heartbeat

And then she stayed there

No speeches, no explanations

Just one hand cradling the back of his head, fingers combing slowly through his hair, the other resting flat on his shoulder

He didn’t speak, didn’t move much either

His grip tightened slightly like he was anchoring himself and for the first time she felt it clearly- the tension he carried, the fear packed so tightly inside him that even a small burn on her skin felt like the world slipping out of control

She lowered her cheek to his hair, her lips brushing his crown

“mai yahi hoon” she murmured barely a sound

Her thumb traced slow circles at the nape of his neck

“you don’t have to be strong” she whispered voice soft but certain

“at least aaj nahi, not in front of me”

His breath hitched once

And then he exhaled long, slowly as if something he had been holding had finally found a place to rest

He tightened his hold on her finally leaning fully into her closing his eyes

She took his hand slowly pressing his palm flat, right where hear heart is   

She guided his hand gently not rushing him, not forcing anything just placing it there over the steady rhythm beneath her chest

His palm walm, slightly trembling as if not sure if he should touch her like this

“noor-“ as he was about to say

She stopped him

“shh” she murmured voice barely audible

“this..” she whispered her voice barely louder than the beat he could feel

“belongs to you, avi”

She pressed his hand a little closer her fingers folding over his knuckles anchoring him there

“chahe kuch bhi ho jaaye aap mujhe yahi paoge” she murmured softly her cheek resting against his hair

“chahe sab bhaari lage, dar lage, yahi haath rakh lena”

His throat worked, he didn’t speak

He couldn’t

For a man who had spent his life being the ground everyone stood on, from proving himself, to hiding his own emotions

Being allowed to lean, this way felt unfamiliar, almost frightening and yet….safe

Hid fingers curled slightly against her, as if afraid she might disappear

His forehead pressed deeper into her chest careful not to make her uncomfortable in any way

His breath evening out for a second

She kept stroking his hair slow

“humesha aap sab sambhalo zaruri toh nahi na?” she whispered again softer now

“aapka bhi koi hai jo aapko sambhalna chahta hai, mauka toh dijiye”

That did it

His shoulders finally loosened

He stayed their eyes closed breathing her in like she could only ground him now

And for first time truly he let himself believe it

He wasn’t holding the world alone anymore

The world, his world was holding him back

“mai tumhe dard mei nahi dekh sakta” he said finally voice slow now the way he rarely shows   

Her hand still in his hair for just a second when he said it

Not just words but the way he said them

Slow, bare

She felt it then; how much it had cost him to admit that out loud

This wasn’t protectiveness spoken loudly

This was fear whispered carefully

She didn’t pull away

Didn’t lift his face to make him look at her

Instead, she tightened her hold just a little her pal flattening more firmly at the back of his head, fingers threading through his hair

Letting him speak

“mujhe nahi pata kyu noor..
…tumhari har ek takleef choti se choti bhi mere andar lagti hai”

“I didn’t want to worry you”

she murmured voice steady, warm grounding

“I want to make this day special for you baby, and not just this but every day ahead in this lifetime we will spend together”

her voice wavered just a little from honesty

“and I don’t care if I burn my hand, lose sleep or mess thing up a little, if it makes my avi smile, if it makes you happy, I will do it a hundred more times”

He stayed still when she said that

Her words didn’t rush him they didn’t try to fix him

They simply stood there

His fingers flexed once against her back, then curled into the fabric of her clothes

For a few terrifying seconds all he could see was loss

Not anything else

Just image of her pain, sharp cruel

It didn’t come from logic, it came from something far older and deeper inside him, a place shaped by years of standing alone, being emotionally guarded, of people walking away, of learning hard way to prove himself

His mind just said one thing; what If I lose her

That was the truth he never wanted to face

He had built his life around control, being prepared, composed, unshakable, never showing his fear but the moment he felt her pain everything cracked

Because she wasn’t someone he could afford to lose

He didn’t know how to explain this, the fear,

How deeply he was bound to her existence

And then she held him- something he isn’t used to

When she pulled him down slowly when she tucked his face against her chest wrapped him in quiet something inside him completely gave away

His body responded before his mind could-his body leaning into hers like a child seeking shelter

For the first time he didn’t fight his fear, his vulnerability

For the first time he let it exist

And that terrified as much as it comforted him

Because no one have seen him like this

She felt it, she saw it without him naming it

Understood without explanation

Accepted it without judgement

Her hand in his hair her voice, her steady heartbeat beneath his hand and cheek did something years of discipline couldn’t

It soothed him

It grounded him

He realized how deeply she was changing something in him she was someone

-who have the power to undo him

He finally shifted, not pulling away not fully lifting his head just enough to turn his face slightly his cheek resting against her chest, his temple tucked beneath her chin

“my life” he said slowly

“has been special since the day I saw you”

She looked down at him

“since the day you chose me”

he added slowly sliding his fingers into hers now intertwining their hands

“not because of my name, or my position”

His thumb traced her knuckles softly

“but because you saw me… and still stayed” he said firm but gentle

A small breath escaped him

His arm tightened around her

“you walking into my life the way you did, fearless, stubborn, kind, warm—"

For a moment he paused

“you are the reason my days feel like they matter now, noor” he murmured

“so don’t ever think I need anything more than you being here with me…safe”

“I can handle my own pain; I have lived with it”

His hand slid up her back fingers spreading

“but when its you”

he admitted barely above a whisper

“logic stops working”

She felt his forehead press more firmly against her

Her thumb resumed its slow steady motion at the nape of his neck

She leaned back just enough to press a gentle kiss into his hair, then rested her cheek again

“mai aapki kamzori nahi banna chahti avi” she murmured voice low

“I want to be someone who makes you feel light not burdened”

She lifted her head just enough this time

“mai woh jagah banna chahti hu jaha aap saans le sako”

she continued thumb brushing slow over his hand now just over her name

“jaha aap ruk jao, baith jao, jaha aapko ladna naa pade”

“kamzori insaan ko tod deti hai” she said quietly

“mai aapko tuta nahi dekh sakti, woh bhi meri wajah se”

She leaned her forehead lightly against his temple

“agar aap kabhi ladkhadao” she murmured

“mai aapke sath khade rehna chahti hu aapki taakat bankar”

His fingers paused mid stroke at her knuckles tightening slightly

He lifted her hand, the one where it burned and pressed soft kiss onto it, slowly grazing his lips on her skin

“noor”

he murmured letting the name linger like a prayer, a confession

“tumhare liye taakat kya hai?” he asked

Not challenging, not curious in a casual way

She didn’t answer immediately

Her gaze drifted somewhere past his shoulder thoughts slowing, softening

“kabhi socha nahi” she admitted honestly a small breath leaving her

“bass… jub dar lagta hai na” she said softly

“toh mai sirf ek jagah jaati hu”

She looked back at him then, eyes steady

“kanha”

The name left her lips like muscle memory

“jab sab mushkil ho” she continued

“jub kuch samaj naa aaye, kya sahi, kya galat mai bass unke paas baith jaati hu”

A faint smile touched her lips

“kuch maangti nahi” she added

“bass lagta hai koi hai jo sun raha hai, bina judge kiye”

He didn’t interrupt

He just watched her

The quiet faith in her voice, the simplicity of it, the way her strength didn’t come from noise but surrender

“unhone hi toh mujhe aapse milaya hai” she said looking at him

Something in his chest shifted again

He lifted his hand cupping her cheek gently thumb brushing along her cheek

“mai bhagwaan mei nahi manta” he said honestly

“but-“ his thumb paused pressing lightly into her skin

“mere liye taakat bhi tum ho”

he said voice low but unwavering, eyes never leaving hers

“aur meri bhakti bhi tum ho”

He breath caught slightly

He leaned in forehead resting against hers, eyes closing for a second

His hand slid down to hold hers again finger interlacing firmly now

“agar tum meri Zindagi mei ho” he said quietly

“mujhe kisi mandir jaane ki zarurat nahi”

A faint almost self-aware smile touched his lips

“kyuki meri shraddha,” he finished softly

“tumse shuru hai aur tum par khatam”

for a second she couldn’t breathe

not because his words were heavy but because they were too real

too sincere

too undeserved for the version of her that still counted mistakes as sins

her lashes fluttered as she stared at him, her eyes suddenly burning vision blurring just enough for the world to soften around his face

the man infront of her so certain, so unshakable had just placed her in his life where people place gods, and she didn’t know how to hold something that sacred

her lips parted

“avi..” her voice cracked despite her trying to keep it steady

A tear clung stubbornly to her lower lashes

“what did I do,” she whispered almost accusing fate

“to deserve you”

She shook her head slowly disbelief mixing with awe

“itne acche karam toh nahi kiye thae maine”

she breathed out a broken smile forming through the wetness

“jo aap mujhe mil jao”

She expected him to dismiss it, or reassure her softly

Instead he chuckled

Not loud, not mocking

A quiet warm sound that vibrated right against her chest

His forehead brushed hers again and he tilted his head just enough to look at her

“agar mere karmo ko baad”

he said voice calm but edged with truth

“tum mujhe mil sakti ho…”

His thumb came up wiping her tear she hadn’t realised had slipped free

“toh tumhare saamne” he finished eyes steady

“mai kuch bhi nahi hu, meri jaan”

The words didn’t inflate him

They stripped his emotions

And that’s what broke her

Her chest tightened

Seeing her like this aviraj sat up slightly and she instantly buried her face against his chest letting a few tears slip free, her arms tightening around her instinctively the sobs small but steady shaking her shoulder slightly

Her body shook slightly as her tears fell, she buried her face against his chest, hiccupping softly between her words

It wasn’t just about his words, it was all she silently carried and wanted

She was crying because for the first time she felt like someone wasn’t staying or feeling for her despite her flaws

In a world where she felt no one would want her, make her feel like she wanted

He was treating her like she was the answer to a prayer they never knew how to say

“aap itne acche kyu ho kisi ne nazar lagadi humko toh I can’t afford to lose you”

she murmured voice muffled and trembling

Aviraj’s arms wrapped around her without hesitation, one hand rubbing soothing circles over her back while the other secured her closer

Slowly he lifted her effortlessly her legs instinctively wrapping around his waist

Her chest pressed against his, trembling from a mixture of relief, emotion while he held her like she was something fragile yet at the same time entirely his world

He chuckled softly low and calming

“shhh”

“waise itni sherni banti ho …or abhi aise ro rahi ho

Sab theek hai tum yahi ho bass yahi…”

She hiccupped again pressing closer into him letting herself completely be held, completely safe

His thumb traced slow circles over her spine as he whispered her name, grounding her with every heart beat

“mai humesha yahi hoon…kahi nahi jaa raha”

he murmured voice a soft promise and the tension in her chest began to melt enough for her to exhale

She slowly lifted her head looking at him her eyes glistening but soft meeting his gaze

Aviraj leaned in lips brushing against her forehead first, then sliding down to her cheek

“together remember?” he murmured against her skin

She nodded a small smile tugging at her lips despite herself her hands clutching him closer

Leaning into him further, pressing her face against his chest

“humesha” she whispered back

His arms tightened around her holding her like she was the most precious in the world because to him, she was

They stayed like that for a longer while, wrapped in quiet warmth of each other the morning sun spilling gentle light across the room

Kaashvi’s head rested against his chest her cheek pressing softly into rhythm of his heartbeat arms and legs curled around him

Aviraj’s hand slowly traced his hand on her back, fingers splayed across the curve of her waist

His other hand brushing her hair from her face

He exhaled a low breath finally breaking the silence

“uthna nahi hai noor?”

he murmured voice low thick with affection and a hint of amusement

Kaashvi shook her head like a stubborn child clutching him tighter, wrapping her legs around his waist and arms around his neck

“nahi…mujhe mere pati ke paas hi rehna hai”

her voice was soft but firm a quiet declaration, her need to just be here with him

Aviraj chuckled softly

He pressed his forehead lightly against hers the weight of his gaze affectionate and teasing

His lips curved into a fond smile

“pure din yahi rehna hai?”

he spoke his tone amused

“hmm” she hummed voice muffled now

“bol dena secretary ko aaj unavailable ho”

she tightened her hold nuzzling into him  

“accha” aviraj drew softly the amusement in his voice deepening as his arms tightened around her to support her weight

His hand slid up her back, steady, secure

Kaashvi hummed again

“hmm”

“busy ho biwi ko pakadne mei”

He laughed- quiet, helpless

His forehead dropped to her shoulder as he shook his head

Kaashvi clung to him a moment longer

Aviraj’s lips curved into a slow teasing smile his voice low and deliberate

“theek hai yahi rehte hai phir jo tumne banaya hai woh sab kha lenge aur mujhe pata nahi—”

Before he could finish kaahsvi’s eyes widened in panic and she wriggled out of his arms, pulling back as if startled

“jaldi chaliye avi ready hoiye”

Her voice had that familiar mixture of urgency and amusement

“waise bhi advik ka pata hai mujhe”

Aviraj chuckled, shaking his head in admiration

Seconds ago, she had been clinging to him like a child now she was moving with purpose determined that he ate what she prepared

The shift in her energy the blend of care, responsibility and mischief made him watch her with that quiet possessive pride and admiration that always settled in his chest when he saw her

Her leaned back slightly let out a slow breath noticing her every small movement now- the curl of her hair catching the morning light, the way she walked, the determination in her eyes

“meri shaitan chuhiya” he murmured softly to himself shaking his head with a small amused smile as she disappeared toward the bathroom

The moment they both stepped out of the room together, the house was already awake in that warm lived in way-soft voices drifting from the dining area, the faint clink of utensils, sunlight spilling lazily through the corridor windows

Kaashvi walked beside him, but she wasn’t really there

Her eyes fixed on her phone, thumbs moving quickly, brows knit in concentration as if she was doing something far more serious than a casual scroll.

She nodded to herself once lips pressed in a thin line

Aviraj looking at her slowed half a step, instinctively placing his hand at the small of her back to steady her as she almost missed a turn

“kaashvi” he said calmly fingers firm but gently

“chalte hue phone matt dekho”

She hummed in response, absent, distracted eyes never leaving the screen

“hmm”

He glanced at her from the side mild amusement flickering in his gaze

“kaha busy ho rakhi ho subah subah?”

She didn’t look up

“kahi nahi” she replied lightly

They took a few more steps

Then casually she asked

“aaj office kub tak jaoge?”

He blinked the question catching him off guard

“usual time par” he answered

But something shifted in his expression not disappointment but surprise

He had assumed she would try to keep him home today, that she would make plans here, with him

But she didn’t react

She just hummed again

Aviraj looked ahead, he didn’t say anything even if he wanted to spend time with her today, he didn’t question anything

If anything, he told himself maybe she is busy today, maybe she didn’t want to disturb him

‘but I want her to disturb me’ something in his mind whispered back

Still it was very…unlike her

What he didn’t see was the chaos on her screen

Reminders and plans set for today

A note that read- his day

-office surprise

-talked to everyone

-his college

-dhaaba

-night surprise

Her mind racing ahead- timelines overlapping, excitement bubbling inside her

She calculated how long they would stay in office, when she could surprise him

“aree haa inke liye kapde bhi le jaane hai abb iss formal shirt pant mei bodyguard lagenge mere” she thought

And typed it

-casual clothes

She glanced up briefly just enough to see him

A small smile tugging at her lips

As they reached the dining area

Everything was already laid beautifully and everyone sitting and talking sipping their teas

Priya sat beside kshitij while malini sat beside her with vivek and opposite to them were the younger ones

Ayra and advik as usual bickering while dhruv engrossed in his phone

“aree waah aa gaye dono” chachi exclaimed first

Advik smirked eyes flickering towards them

“bhuka maarne ka plan tha kya hume aap dono ka”

Kaashvi just looked at him with a bored expression

“tu din bhar bhi khaa le phir bhi bhook bhook hi karta hai” she said

Aviraj stood there calm. He pulled her chair out for her before sitting himself beside her

His mother’s eyes softened looking at them

“toh bhai phir kya plan hai aajka” advik said leaning lazily against the chair

Before anyone could say anything kaashvi leaned forward her voice gentle but steady

“pehle sab khana khaiye” she said excitement bubbling in her voice

Chachi ji smiled at her excitement

“haa bhai aaj ki master chef humari bahu hai” she said making everyone look at kaashvi in amusement and surprise

“oohooo lagta hai aaj ka pura din washroom mei nikalne wala hai”

advik added but still taking the paratha

Laughter rippled around the table while kaashvi glared at him

“tujhe subah subah pitna hai kya sabke saamne” she said

“bass abb koi kuch nahi bolega mujhe pata hai meri beti ne banaya hai accha bana hoga” Priya said making kaashvi smile

Aviraj looked down at the food and then at kaashvi

The halwa, the paranthas

The quiet excitement in her eyes made his eyes filled with pride and softness

Kaashvi looked at everyone like she was waiting for exam results

Her excitement quite visible

Ayra smiled at her amused while advik leaned back in his chair dramatically

“aree shaant chotu Bhabhi” he teased

“aise pressure daalogi toh lagta hai report card nikalna padega aapka

Spices- 9 out of 100

Halwa- umm 12 out of 100”

Kaahsvi just shot him a look

“dholki tera dholak banake yahi par kirtan kar dungi chup kar”

Everyone chuckled lightly seeing their usual banter and then everyone picked up their first bite tasting it

For one brief second there was absolute silence

Everyone eyes darted on food and then they looked at each other slowly

Kaashvi’s smile froze her eyes widened, as she looked around table

No one spoke

Her fingers curled into the edge of the table

Then slowly –

Aviraj’s father cleared his throat

“bhaut accha bana hai beta” he said looking at her

The words landed like relief crashing through her chest, as she exhaled a low breath she didn’t realise, she was holding

Kaashvi blinked  

“sach papa?” she said eyes shining

“sach” he added calmly nodding once

Everyone exchanged quick glances, a little surprised

It was a little salty not terrible, but noticeable

Still plates kept moving paranthas torn halwa spooned

Chachi smiled quickly

“perfect hai beta” she said

Kaashvi immediately turned to aviraj eyes shining with hope and nervousness mixed together

“avii aap batao na”

Advik leaned forward instantly

“haa haa batao batao avi bhaiya”

He smirked

“bilkul honest review”

Aviraj looked at kaashvi

And in that moment, he didn’t see the table

Didn’t see the food, the salt, the spoons paused mid-air teasing eyes waiting for his verdict

He saw her

Sitting there with her shoulders slightly tense, eyes wide and hopeful in that very kaashvi way, like she had put a piece of her heart into that food waiting for him to accept it

He noticed

The faint redness on her hand

The way she was waiting

Her excitement and nervousness how badly she wanted this to be right for him

And something in his chest tightened

She had woken up before dawn

Stood in kitchen when she didn’t like cooking

She had burned her hand and hid it with a smile

Because she wanted his day to start differently

Yes, it was a little salty

The halwa a little sweeter than usual

But what he tasted was her efforts, care, emotions

Kaashvi’s breath hitched

He lifted his eyes looking at her steady, sure

“bohot accha bana hai noor”

Her face lit up instantly like someone had turned a light on from within

Relief, joy, crashing together at once

“sach?” she asked again softer now

He nodded once

“haa”

Everyone looked at him

Advik blinked

Ayra looked amused

Dhruv giving a knowing smile

Aviraj didn’t look at anyone else

He ate slowly, fully, every bite

Kaashvi finally relaxed

With aviraj’s words still echoing in her ears she smiled to herself and reached forward fingers moving toward the plate, ready to take a bite herself

The nerves in her chest had loosened, the tension she had carried melting away

Everyone looked at each other knowing if she tasted it, she would know

Just as her fingers brushed the edge of the parantha

“kaashvi”

Dhruv’s voice cut out smoothly firmly

She paused mid movement looking up at him

“haa bhaiya?”

Before she could ask anything dhruv was already on his feet pushing his chair back moving to her

“tu kicten mei jaa” he said casually but there was something deliberate in his tone

“mai tere liye kuch laaya hu”

Her brows knit together

“kya?”

He smiled softly at her

“tere favourite chole bhatura woh hospital ke paas wali jagah se”

Her eyes widened a smile spreading on her face

“sach?”

“haa jaa jaldi” he nodded

Her face lit up like a child as she stood up giving dhruv a side hug while he ruffled her hair like a child

“Thankyou so much bhaiya” she said

He smiled looking at her

Before anyone could say anything, she turned and hurried towards the kitchen, completely unaware of the sudden stillness she left at the table

The moment she disappeared

Everyone exhaled as the watched her go

Advik dropped his voice

“Bhabhi ki namak ki factory hai kya”

Dhruv smacked his head from behind sitting in his seat again

“chup kar suun naa le woh”

Chachi leaned forward quickly lowering her voice

“koi kuch nahi bolega” she said in a warning murmur

“subah se lagi thi wo iss mei”

Ayra nodded instantly

“haa she was so nervous and excited”

Advik sighed

“efforts toh full hai Bhabhi ke par dhruv bhaiya aap chole bhatura kab laaye”

Dhruv looked at him while shrugging

“meri raat ki shift thi hospital mei toh mujhe laga tha subah le jau uske liye kuch din pehle bata rahi thi woh, accha hai le aaya”

Dhruv’s words settled over the table quietly

For a moment no one spoke

Aviraj’s mother’s expression softened more

“itne din se lagi hui thi wo” she murmured almost to herself

“roz puchti thi maa kaise banau, kitna paani, kitni cheeni”

Ayra smiled faintly shaking her head

“jo bhi hai she did it with so much efforts that matters”

Advik let out a low whistle

“lucky ho aviraj bhaiya” he teased

Through it all aviraj remained silent

He took another bite slower this time

All he could see was her standing near the stove, half asleep eyes, hair tied messily, hiding her burnt hand with a smile

He swallowed

He ate slowly, calmly without a word

Everyone noticed

“aap pura khaoge?” ayra said

Aviraj didn’t look up continued eating

“haa”

Before anyone could say anything, he replied

“accha bana hai”

Not loud, not defensive, just final

By the time kaashvi returned with the plate in her hand smiling brightly

Aviraj’s plate was empty

She looked at it then at him confused but happy

“aapko itna pasand aaya”

He met her eyes expression steady but eyes soft only for her

“bhaut”

Everyone just looked at them with a quite awe and amused expression

Chachi’s lips curved into a knowing smile as she exchanged a glance with aviraj’s mother who looked at the empty plate and then at her son

“dekha Bhabhi” she murmured half teasing half awed

“jub chota tha kitne nakhre karta tha khane ko, aaj dekho” she said

Ayra leaned closer to advik whispering with a grin

“humare bhai toh biwipaglu nikle pure” she whispered

Advik smirked

“ram milaye jodi lambu akdu ko mili uski chotu bakri”

He said making ayra giggle and dhruv roll his eyes but a small smile spreading on his face

Aviraj who usually sat straight backed, distant even among family was softer now, shoulders relaxed, jaw unclenched, the stern lines on his face eased whenever kaashvi was around

Few moments later

One by one everyone started leaving to their respective works

Chachi left with aviraj’s mother discussing something, dhruv leaving for his bedroom after a long night shift, ayra and advik walking away bickering something about college, chachaji and aviraj’s father ready to leave for office

The house slipped back into its usual rhythm once breakfast ended

Files gathered, phones checked

Aviraj about to leave adjusted his watch, waiting near the entrance

Usually always this was the moment

Kaashvi would come, hurriedly leaving for hospital she would come, fix his collar, kiss his cheek, softy and whisper some threat for him to come early

But today

Nothing

She wasn’t there; she left for somewhere after breakfast maybe room maybe somewhere else but today she didn’t come

He stepped out, he paused

He waited a second the another

His gaze flickered towards the corridor but no one was there

A faint crease appeared between his brows

He cleared his throat tightly turning back to the living room where advik and ayra were sitting

“kaashvi?” he asked trying to sound casual

“kaha hai?”

Advik looking at his phone looked up

“pata nahi room gayi thi shayad yaa maa ke sath”

Ayra shrugged casually

“haa maa ke sath hi gayi thi shayad”

Aviraj nodded once

But something in his chest felt off

It was ridiculous he told himself, she had been up since dawn, cooked, and also slept late last night done more than anyone could ask for, of course she would be tired

But still

He sighed

It was his birthday

And on this day only for the first time she hadn’t come when he was leaving

Advik smirked

“kya hua bhaiya abhi nikle bhi nahi abhi se Bhabhi ki yaad aa rahi hai”

Ayra added sweetly

“Morning kiss nahi mili kya?”

He shot them a warning look clearing his throat

“bakwas band karo kuch baat karni thi usse” he said but they saw it clearly why he was asking

“aur tum dono uske piche piche rehte ho abhi nahi pata woh kaha hai”

Advik leaned back hands up in surrender

“hume nahi pata sachi”

Aviraj nodded again, looking one last time around

He stepped out this time to the driveway

The car door opened

As he slid inside his hand paused on the handle for half a second

Loger than usual

He exhaled quietly

“thak gayi hogi” he told himself and drove away

Exact an hour later after aviraj had left the house was quieter again, too quiet for the storm brewing inside kaashvi’s room

She rushed in, closing the door behind her, breath slightly uneven as she hurried mind already ten steps ahead of her body

“sorry avi..” she thought half smiling half panicking

“aaj aapko bye nahi kaha but koi nahi abhi bass kuch der aur phir pura din sath”

The room looked nothing like its usual organized, neat self

The bed was unmade again, gift boxes from last night still lay pused to one side

Her phone on the dresser, opened with the reminders of the day

A cotton saree lay across the chair

Kaashvi moved from cupboard to bed to dressing table in quick restless circles

She pulled out aviraj’s casual clothes folded them neatly

A collared white sweat shirt

A casual pair of trousers

She shoved them into a bag

“shoes bhi” she murmured

She bent down grabbed his sneakers from the last drawer of their wardrobe packed them in a different bag almost knocking over his other clothes

“focus kaashvi”

As she packed everything she stood infront of dressing table tied her hair back then immediately let it look because it didn’t look right

She checked the mirror again, her saree blouse already on, petticoat on, saree half draped, pleats nowhere near normal

She glanced at the clock

“ayra kaha reh gayi yaa..” she thought her face worried

Right then on cue the door opened

Ayra stepped in

“bhabh…” as she was about to say she stopped

Her eyes swept the room, looking around

The chaos, the mess

Half dresses kasshvi

The bag open on bed

Kaashvi pacing like a cat here and there

“yeh room hai yaa akhaada kon bolega ye raj bhai ka room hua karta tha”

Her voice cur through the chaos as she stepped inside looking at the sight of clothes, bag

Kaashvi didn’t even stop moving pacing here and there

“ayraaa” she said in relief

“jaldi aa yaar meri saree laga de time nahi hai unke office jaana hai phir aur jagah bhi jaana hai aaj—”

Ayra blinked once, laughing already walking to kaashvi

“ruko ruko saans lo pehle”

She stood infront of kaashvi holding her shoulders

“sab ho jayega Bhabhi aapne bhaiya ke kapde rakh diye?”

Kaashvi nodded looking at the bag

“bass phir abb aapko ready karte hai”

Kaashvi sighed in relief finally standing as ayra picked up the cotton saree and began working with practised ease

She face the mirror, eyes darting between her reflection and ayra’s movements

As ayra started pleating the saree neatly she said casually

“waise… raj bhai was asking about you”

Kaashvi’s head snapped up

“sachi?” she asked surprised

“kya bol rahe the?”

Ayra shrugged lips curling mischievously as she continued pleading

“bass pooch rahe thae, kaha hai meri noor?”

a soft pink crept up kaashvi’s cheek she looked away quietly pretending to be very invested in her bangles

“pagal” she muttered

Ayra grinned enjoying it then her tone softened just a little

“but jokes aside, thode sad lag rahe the”

That made kaashvi till, her eyes softening

Her smiled faded just a little as she looked herself in the mirror

She can imagine him waiting for her, the way he would be looking for her

The way he wont say anything but must have felt it

‘just because I didn’t come to say bye today

 She thought her chest tightened

‘bass thodi der aur avi’ she thought quietly

‘aaj ka din aapka hi hoga’

Ayra finished everything and tucked the pallu with care

“done” she said stepping back

Kaashvi turned fully toward the mirror

The cotton saree fell softly around her, light and effortless the white making her look softer with the colourful printed floral patterns,

The oxidised jhumka framed her face, the small black bindi sat perfectly between her brows

Her kohl lined eyes just enough to deepen her warmth

The mangalsutra rested against her collarbone and sindoor bright unmistakable in her hair partition, her hair set free, soft curls reaching down her shoulders

She looked… effortlessly beautiful and herself

She turned to ayra nervous siddenly

“kaisi lag rahi hu?”

Ayra didn’t answer immediately

She just looked at her slowly from head to toe

Then she exhaled

“Bhabhi..” she said shaking her head with a grin

‘katal lag rahi ho”

Kaashvi laughed softly cheeks warming

“unhe sahi lagega?” she asked

Ayra smiled knowingly

“unhe?” she said confidently

“unka toh kaam khatam hai Bhabhi, aaj office mei koi kaam nahi hoga”

“ayra!” kaashvi exclaimed but despite herself a smile curved her lips

She looked at herself in the mirror her expression softened not at herself but at the thought of him

Of the way he will look at her

Will he like it?

Kashvi adjusted the pallu over her shoulder once as they walked down to the hall, as she is ready to leave carrying everything she needed

“scooty ki keys?” she said to ayra

Ayra blinked but forwarded the keys

“lelo but soch lo chala logi?” she said cautiously  

Kaashvi looked at her with a long unimpressed stare, flat, bored almost offended

“tujhe pata nahi” she said slowly with a mock seriousness

“abhi race laga le na koi…mai yuu-“ she said snapping her fingers

“—chutki mei hara du kiski ko bhi scooty pe”

Ayra just stared at her, being completely done

She sighed shaking her head then nodded

“ooohoo chtuki mei hara dungi papa ki pari aaram se jaana”

advik said coming from behind wrapping one around kaashvi’s shoulder dramatically

Kaashvi immediately nudged him with her elbow

“abey hatt” she scoffed

“tu jaake apni chandni chamka mai apni champa mei ghoomungi papa ke chamkadad”

Ayra looked at them shaking her head

“lo chandni kum thi uske competition mei champa aa gayi”

“dekhlo maine daant nahi khani haa” she warned

“aur waise bhaiya aayenge bhi scooty mei?”

Kaashvi waved a hand dismissively

“aree fiakr not mai hu na”

Then she smirked

“woh laad sahab hai kya kahike”

Just then her mother-in-law stepped into the hall

“jaa rahi ho beta?” she asked gently

“jii maa” kaashvi replied

“aaram se jaana” her mother in law said worry and affection mixing her voice

“theek hai? Or phuanch ke siddha kisi ko bhi call kar dena”

Kaashvi nodded

“yes mam” she said making her mother in law chuckle

As kaashvi moved to the door adjusting the bag and her purse ayra, advik and her mother in law watched her their expression fond

Her mother in law sighed softly

“kitne time baad raj ko aise dekha hai” she said

“Bhagwan aise hi rakhe dono ko”

Ayra smiled proudly glancing at the door where kaashvi was about to step out

“aree badi maa” she said lightly

“aise hi thodi bhai noor bolte hai Bhabhi ko”

And just like that kaashvi stepped out sunshine wrapped in cotton, care, affection

The scooty cut through the morning road smoothly, the city still stretching itself awake

Her lips curled into a soft smile under the helmet almost without realising she started humming

Low at first

Then clearer

“chal tere mere iss kisse ka sikka uchaale

Chhit mai teri patt tu mere hawale”

The wind brushed against her face tugged gently at the edge of her saree, and for once her mind wasn’t running in different directions it was fixed in one place, one person

Aviraj

“kehta hai kya tera jiyaa

Bolo piya

Haan ke haan”

The way he looked at her in the morning, half asleep, half worried, soft in a way only she gets to see

The way he ate every bit without a word

The way he waited at the door just a little longer than usual for her

Her throat tightened faintly at the thought

“bass thodi sa intezaar aur” she murmured to herself

She slowed near a turn- and that’s when she saw a temple

A small temple, on the way bells chiming softly as someone stepped out

Fresh flower garlanded hung at the entrance

The idol inside was barely visible from road but her scooty slowed

Then stopped

She cut the engine, removed her helmet and stood there for a second eyes lifting toward the temple

“kanha..” she whispered

She didn’t think anything then

Parking the sooty properly she walked toward the small flower stall outside, and bought a simple thaal flowers, diya, prashaad,

Her dingers paused at the counter where black threads were kept

“ek kaala dhaaga bhi” she said softly

Inside the temple the air was cool and heavy with devotion

Bell rang gently as she entered

She stepped closer to the idol, the soft clink of bangles echoing as she held the thaal carefully with both hands

“pandit jii” she said gent;y

The priest looked up eyes kinds, already smiling

“ye mere pati ke naam se” kaashvi said voice soft but certain

“aaj unka janmdin hai”

The smile on pandit jii’s face deepened he nodded once knowingly and took the thaal from her hands

“jii” he said warmly

He placed the thaal at devi maa’s feet with devotion, ringing the bell once,

He began chanting some mantras, his voice steady and rhythemic

Kaashvi folded her hands eyes closed agains

“unhe safe rakhna, khush rakhna” she murmured

“andar se bhi , bahar se bhi”

“aur kabhi koi problem aaye” he lips curved faintly

“hume ek dusre ki dhal banke sath rakhna”

Pandit jii lifted the black thread brushed it lightly against the idol’s feet murmured another mantra and then towards her

He placed the prashaad and the thread carefully in her palm

“ye pehna dena usse beti” he said and raised his hand in a blessing

“sukhi raho, humesha sath raho”

She smiled, touching the prashaad to her forehead once and bent down to touch his feet

As she stepped back, she bowed once more to the idol and turned to leave

As she kept the prashaad and the thread in her purse the engine hummed alive again

“abb siddha aapke paas” she thought accelerating gently

As she reached

The scooty rolled into the office parking, its engine cutting off as kaashvi removed her helmet

“haaye meri kamar kitne din baad scooty chalayi” she said taking the keys

The building rose infront of her, glass, steel quiet authority

She adjusted the pallu of her saree, looking at the rear-view mirror once she made sure her hair were perfect, bindi on place

“hmm lip gloss thoda aur” she said taking out her gloss from purse and applying on her lips

“perfect” she said looking for one last time

She walked in clutching her purse and a bag that had his items

The reception area was crisp, professional

A young woman behind the desk looked up polite but formal

“yes?” she asled

Kaashvi smiled softly

“hi..i am kaashvi sha..” as kaashvi was about to say she stopped realising it

“kaashvi singh I want to meet aviraj singh” she said

The receptionist’s fingers paused for a second

She glanced at her, her tone shifting into something practised

“ma’am aviraj sir is in meetings he is busy today and won’t be able to meet anyone without prior appointment”

For a second kaashvi blinked

Not offended just a little surprised but then she thought
“she doesn’t know me, mai pehle kabhi nahi aayi”

She nodded slowly thinking something,

Busy today? Ofcourse he is

“okay but-“ she said calmly

Before she could say anything further again a voice cut in from the side startled and warm

“ma’am?”

Kaashvi turned instinctively

A man in his early thirties stood there, file in his hands, eyes wide and warm with recognition

“aap yaha?” he said again

Kaashvi frowned slightly taken aback

“ji?”

Then genuinely confused

“aap kaun?”

He straightened immediately still smiling politely

“ma’am I am sir’s secretary”

Her brows knitted together

“aap mujhe jaante hai?”

He nodded half laughing looking at her confused self

“ji..matlab sir ke phone mei aapki photo dekhi thi or phir woh gala, uske baad toh sabko hi pata hai”

He added quickly

The receptionist’s face drained of colour as understanding dawned on her recognizing kaashvi, she stood up at once

“i- I am so sorry ma’am” she said hurriedly

“I didn’t know-

Kaahsvi looked at her smiling gently cutting her off

“its fine” she said kindly

“aap apna kaam hi kar rahi thi”

The receptionist visibly relaxed nodding gratefully

Kaashvi then turned back to secretary

“accha abb ye secret hai unhe batana nahi mai yaha hu” she said eyes sparkling

He smiled understanding flashing across her face

“sir ke liye surprise?” he asked

She nodded

“haa toh phir abb bataiye woh kaha hai abhi?”

The secretary glanced toward the corridor leading deeper into the office then back at her

“sir conference room mei hai” he said

“but meeting khatam hone wali hai mai le chalta hu chaliye”

Kaashvi’s smile widened – calm outside excitement humming beneath

Kaashvi followed the secretary down the corridor, her steps light heart beating faster with every turn

“toh aap hai meri ek aur sautan” kaashvi said in mock seriousness walking behind the secretary

The secretary stiffened mid step

He actually froze for half a second before turning around eyes wide

“mai?” he blurted out

“s-sautan?”

Kaashvi couldn’t hold it anymore she laughed softly the sound light and teasing immediately waving her hand

“arre arre aap toh dar gaye” she said still walking

“mai mazak kar rahi hu but phir bhi mujhe pata hai calls par woh kisse bol rahe hote hai ‘aise nahi aise karna, meetings kub hai, kiske sath’ she said imitating him”

He let out a breath, adjusting his tie nervously

“aapne toh dara hi diya tha maana sir handsome hai par mere waise interest nahi hai” he said with an awkward chuckle

Kaashvi laughed hearing him

“sir suun lete toh—” he said

“toh” kaashvi cut in cheerfully

“darte hai kya unse chaudd mei chaliye socho aap nahi hoge toh unka kaam kaise chalega” she said

That made him smile, real

“mam hum toh darte hai, woh nahi honge toh humara ghar kaise chalega”

They continued down the corridor

Kaashvi walked with easy confidence, eyes curious as she looked around

The office was quieter, glass cabins, polished floors, the sound of distant keyboards, and muted conversations

“waise” she added tilting her head

“aap yaha kub se ho?”

“5 saal mam” he replied more relaxed now

“sir ke sath 4 saal”

She hummed

“toh matlab kaafi secrets jaante ho aap unke”

He laughed with a casual shrug

“sir ke secrets toh sir ke hi rehte hai”

“hmm” she hummed

“bura matt maniyega but aap sir se kaafi alag hai” he said

Kaashvi looked at him raised an eyebrow amused rather than offended

“alag kaise?” she asked lightly still walking

He hesitated for a moment choosing his words carefully

“usually sir is very reserved one” he said honestly

“kam bolte hai, sirf kaam, decisions”

Kaashvi smiled at that a slow knowing smile

“haw mai aapko zyada bolne wali lagi” she said

He chuckled

“nahi matlab” he said glancing at her with a small grin

“aap bilkul opposite ho, aapke aate hi pehli baar aaj yaha itni aawaz itni hansi sunayi de rahi hai”

She let out a soft laugh shaking her head

“shayad isliye hum sath hai” she said shrugging

He chuckled

“lekin sir aaj thode alag lag rahe the”

That made her slow her steps

“alag?” she repeated more attentive now

“haa” he nodded

“subah jub aaye toh he was distracted today in between meeting also he was checking his phone again and again, he doesn’t normally do it”

Kaashvi’s lips curved but there was something tender behind it

They slowed near the turn that led to the conference room

“aree haan” kaashvi suddenly asked

“aapka naam kya hai abb mai aapko sautan sautan thodi naa bol sakti hu”

“arjun” he replied

“arjun rana”

She smiled

“nice to meet you arjun mai kaashvi”

“I know mam” he said with a small grin

As they reached near kaashvi adjusted her bangles, excitement bubbling in her chest

And then she saw him

Aviraj stood outside his cabin, his blazer perfectly in place, sleeves crisp, posture straight

He was speaking to a man from finance, voice low, controlled, the familiar calm authority wrapped around him

One hand casually rested in his pocket other on his side

For a moment she just stopped

There he was, her husband

The smile on her face softened pride slipping in quietly

As she took a step forward, she stopped, and then she noticed something

A girl

She stood a little distance away, supposedly checking her phone but her eyes weren’t on the screen

They were fixed on aviraj, lingering, curious a little too appreciative

Kaashvi’s smile froze

Her brows drew together as she looked at the girl ogling on her husband that too so shamelessly

She watched half a second more- long enough to be sure she wasn’t imagining it

The girl’s gaze followed him openly now, lips parted slightly, expression far too absorbed

“kutti kamini shaadi shuda aadmi hai woh” kaashvi thought

Jealousy hit her fast and sharp as she gritted her teeth her fists curling

Kaashvi inhaled, then calmly walked over stopping right beside the girl who was far too absorbed in her husband

She leaned in slightly voice soft almost friendly

“handsome hai na?” she whispered

The girl startled but didn’t look away from aviraj answering absent mindedly dreaming

“haa…”

“abe saali” kaashvi thought

Kaashvi’s jaw tightened her smile turned sweet in that dangerous way

“pati hai mera”

she added through clenched teeth still whispering

“photo deni hai kya abb”

As soon as the words left her the girl turned slowly then really looked at kaashvi, sindoor in her partition and her face, ofcourse she recognised her the quiet confidence in her eyes

Shock flashed across her face

“s-sorry—” she blurted already stepping back

She didn’t wait for another second she practically fled down the corridor, disappearing around corner

Kaashvi scoffed under her breath

“hadd hai apne hi office mei mera pati safe nahi hai”

She muttered to herself

She turned back toward aviraj, who was completely unaware. Nodding once, expression serious

Kaashvi crossed her arms,

“aaj inka birthday na hota na toh inki ek ek meeting yaad dila deti inhe mai”

Kaashvi watched him finish the conversation her earlier glare melting into something far more dangerous, a slow mischevious smile

As aviraj turned, began to leave towards his cabin and began walking toward the corridor, files tucked in his hands

Kaashvi looked at him slipped behind him silently, walking in silent steps carful not to get noticed by him, saree pleats gathered slightly, she quietly walked behind him

Every person they passed noticed her instantly, first confusion then recognition

A few eyes widened as she followed him quietly

A couple employs froze mid walk

Some almost laughed seeing her walking behind him silently

Kaashvi lifted her one finger to her lips gesturing towards them her eyes sparkling silently mouthing…shh

People bit their lips

A junior executive turned away his shoulders shaking

Even his secretary looked down pretending to check something, failing badly to hide his grin

As they walked something shifted

Aviraj notice it glancing around everyone

He slowed half a step, jaw tightening slightly

He stopped

He turned around to see…

But no one was there…nothing

The corridor was normal, too normal everyone looking down engrossed in their works

He frowned irritation flickering

“someone was—” as he thought

Before he could take another step, suddenly he felt his eyes closing soft hands sliding over his eyes from behind

Warm, familiar, sure

His body reacted before his mind did, he stiffened for a moment irritation flickering hot and sharp

“who the—” his voice dropped dangerous about to turn

Then he felt it

The way the fingers rested, small and soft

The faint scent of her- soft and unmistakable

The pressure- not a stranger’s grip

And then suddenly her voice, came almost near his ear playful and teasing

“kya ye aviraj singh hai?”

He froze for a moment

For a second, he genuinely thought he imagine it, his breath caught, heart skipping a beat

Slowly he reached up pulling her hands down softly

And turned

Kaashvi stood there smiling up at him, eyes bright, bindi perfectly placed mischief return all over her face

“avi-“ she began

He didn’t let her finish

“noor—”

The file slipped from his hand without him noticing

In the next second, his arms were around her, lifting her clean off the ground slightly, holding her tight against his chest like he waited for it and needed to made sure she was real

Her feet left the floor, her hand instinctively wrapping around his shoulder

She laughed softly surprised but happy

“surprise avii” she said

He buried her face into her shoulder for a brief second voice rough, disbelieving

“tum..yaha?”

Around them the office had gone dead silent

Everyone looked shocked eyes widened, mouths agape open

Then the low mumrus started

“she is his wife”

“ye sir ko kya hua?”

“he is hugging her”

“he calls her noor how romantic” one girl said

The same aviraj singh who barely tolerated handshakes was holding a woman, his wife openly

A junior whispered

“ye sach hai yaa mai kisi dusri company mei hu”

Aviraj pulled back finally just enough to look at her face hands firm on her waist, eyes scanning her like he was grounding himself

His expression that is usually stern, unreadable was completely undone, soft, surprised, warm

“tum yaha kaise”

he murmured low almost under his breath

Kaashvi grinned wider shrugging

“socha aapke office ka thoda discipline bigad du”

A corner of his mouth lifted despite himself

And the office watched in collective disbelief and awe, their always serious grumpy boss smiled, holding her like she was the only one that mattered

Aviraj finally lowered her back onto her feet hands still firm on her waist, he looked down at her, like he was still making sense of her being here

Cotton saree, bindi, that familiar sparkle in her eyes,

And then he felt it, the stares of everyone around them

Too many stares

Too silent

He straightened almost instantly, shoulders squaring out of habit

His jaw tightened, expression shifting back to authority though the softness hadn’t completely left his eyes

He cleared his throat once, sharp and deliberated

Everyone froze, continuing their work

His gaze swept across everyone calm but dangerous

“back to work everyone”

That was all it took

People went back to what they were doing, files lifted, screens opened, whispers cut off mid-sentence

While kaashvi just looked at him 

“waah kya girgit hai mera pati”

Aviraj turned towards his cabin his hand automatically sliding his fingers into hers to take her along with him

As they walked, she took exactly three steps and then

She stopped

Aviraj felt it and turned to her side confused

Before he could speak kaashvi smoothly slipped her hand out of his grip, took one step forward and clapped her hands loudly

“attention…attention here please” she said

Every head snapped back, looking at her now

Aviraj blinked, once, twice not knowing what was happening

“what are-“ he began slow voice firm

But she turned slightly shot him a look her eyebrows raised as if silently saying ‘zip it’

And he did, he stayed quiet looking at her

Kaashvi smiled brightly at the entire office, hands folded innocently infront of her

“jaisa ki aap logo ko idea lag gaya hoga” she said cheerfully

“mai hu kaashvi aviraj singh”

“wife of—” she paused turned her head toward him pointedly, eyebrows raise

He stared at her for a second utterly defeated

“…aviraj kaashvi singh” he said quietly voice firm but loud enough

She beamed muttering just enough for him to hear

“good boy”

 and turned …for a second, she locked her gaze with the same girl who was staring at him a few moments ago

And she smiled looking at her making the girl nervously glance around  

A couple people coughed to hide their laughter

Kaashvi continued

“abb mujhe nahi pata aap logo ko pata hai yaa nahi” she said eyes sparkling

“par aaj inka birthday hai”

A ripple of smiles and murmur broke through the office

Aviraj’s eyes widened slightly

“noor—” he started but was too late

“toh” she finished brightly

“ek birthday wishes song to banta hai na?”

Everyone smiled and nodded

While he opened his mouth to stop her disaster

But instead

HAPPYY BIRTHDAY TO AVIRAJ SIR

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU

The singing started suddenly, loudly from everywhere

Aviraj froze for a moment

His own office, and people singing

Someone clapped along

Some grinned openly

Even the strict finance head was smiling

Kaashvi turned toward him joining in immediately clapping and singing right at him eyes locked with his

“happy birthday avi”

He looked around helplessly ears slightly burning completely out of his element,

And then he looked back at her

The way she sang like nothing existed

The pride in her eyes when he said his name with hers

The joy she carried so fearlessly into his rigid, controlled worlds

Something in him gave up

His shoulders relaxed

His lips curved

By the time song ended he was smiling, soft genuine unguarded

Applause broke out

Kaashvi clapped the loudest

Aviraj shook his head slowly, one hand coming up to rub the back of his neck

“..thankyou” he said simply voice calm but warm

The office returned to life, people going for their works with smiles, energy lighter than before

He reached for her hand again and gently pulled her with him

As they walked, he looked down at her surprise and affections clear

“kya karu mai tumhara” he murmured

She grinned wickedly looking at him

“bacche kar lete hai”

He looked at her rolling his eyes

“pagal” he murmured

But bent down anyway pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head hand resting warm and steady at her back guiding her inside opening the door for her

For first time his office didn’t feel like a battlefield but like his world

He had walked into morning expecting the usual though something inside his chest tucked since she didn’t come to say bye but he didn’t expect this

At first his mind refused to register it

The touch over his eyes, the voice he knew better than anyone

Then his body reacted before his mind could

That split second where he thought he imagine her, said everything about how deeply she lived inside him now

When he turned and saw her, really there something inside him softened

The moment she entered the air changed

People smiled, laughed

And the way she stood there clapping loudly, she made this place human

As people sang his employees his team smiled instead of fearing him

It was warm

Embarrassing a little

Overwhelming definitely

But also grounding

He realized it wasn’t about the surprise or song

It was about what she carried with her

Wherever she went she brought light

The moment the cabin door shut behind them then soft click of the door echoed

Silence followed

Kaashvi took a few steps ahead of him, as she walked toward the desk, keeping the bag and purse, still smiling to herself

As she turned around

She didn’t even get a second to react

Aviraj was already there

His hand came up holding her waist, lifting her clean off the floor

She let out a startled laugh, grabbing his shoulders as his face buried into the crook of her neck

“aviii” she laughed breathlessly fingers curling into his coat

“hum thodi der pehle sath thae aap toh aise kar rahe ho jaise mahino baad mile hai”

He didn’t answer

Instead he inhaled slowly, deep, steady like he was grounding himself in her

His nose brushed her skin, his breath warm familiar

“tumhare bina kuch pal bhi mahine hi lagte hai” he murmured against her neck

She shakes her head clutching closer to him

Without loosening his hold even, a little, he turned walking the few steps to his chair behind the desk

He sat down smoothly pulling her with him so she ended up on his lap, knees on either side of him, her body fitting into his like it had always belonged there

His arms tightened instantly

Close, protective, unapologetic

She instinctively snuggled in her forehead brushing his temple, her hand settling at his shoulder

He leaned back slightly still holding her chin resting near her collar bone

“you didn’t kiss me when I left” he said quietly

She pulled back just enough to look at him, lips twitching as she shook her head

“kisi ne aise dekh liya na aapke saare aura ka kabada ho jayega” she whispered dramatically

He huffed out a breath that was close to laugh eyes dark with amusement

“who cares” he said his one hand slid up her back, pressing her closer until there was not space left between them

Her arms slipping around his neck fingers brushing the back of his hair

“you are impossible” she said softly

“and you” he replied tightening his hold just a little more

“are the reason”

He didn’t lose his hold

If anything, his arm tightened around her waist pulling her even closer, until she could feel the strength of him beneath her, the quiet authority that never softened except with her

His lips brushed near her ear as he murmured, voice low lips pressing a gentle kiss

“my kiss, mrs.singh”

She rolled her eyes, though the faint pink blooming on her cheeks betrayed her, her palm came to his chest a weak attempt to distance that did absolutely nothing

“avii” she warned softly

“ye aapka office hai humara bedroom nahi”

One of his brows lifted slowly, the corner of his mouth tilting in that infuriatingly calm, confident way of his

“no one will come here” she said evenly fingers pressing at her waist

“not until I permit”

Her breath hitched just slightly

She leaned in just a fraction, voice dropping into a teasing whispered as her fingers moved on his coat

“hmm?” she murmured

“where do you want your kiss, mr.singh?”

For a second he didn’t answer

He just looked at her, really looked his gaze never leaving hers

Then slowly his gaze drifted slow, unguarded from her eyes to her lips, shining lightly with her gloss, lingering there long enough for her to notice

Her teasing faltered heat rushing up her neck

Her hand shot up, cupping his cheek and then deliberately turning his face to the other side

“besharam ho rahe ho aap” she muttered

A low chuckle escaped him as he leaned closer, just near her ear

“learning from the best” he murmured

Instead of pulling away he leaned closer

Her back met the edge of the desk as he shifted slightly in the chair, adjusting her on his lap with practised ease

His head dipped into the crook of her neck, breath warm against her skin

His chest brushing against hers

His arms came around her fully now, one hands splayed at her lower back, the other resting on her side

She exhaled softly, laughter fading into something quieter

The table pressed cool against her back, his presence like a solid wall infront of her

She inhaled sharply feeling his breath on her pulse hot breath fanning over her exposed neck

“avii” she warned softer this time breath uneven

He didn’t answer

Instead his lips brushed her skin, unhurried

A kiss placed just on her pulse lingering just enough to make her finger curl into his coat

Her hand slid into his hair grip tightening, half warning half plea

His lips part, teeth grazing the soft skin just below her ear before he latches on, sucking slowly

The wet pull of his mouth creates a sharp sting that blooms into heat, his tongue flicking against the spot as he marks her

“avii”

She gasps fingers threading through his hair, pulling him tighter

He doesn’t leave, going between deep sucks and gentle bites leaving a trail of kiss on the curve of her neck

“I swear avi”

she murmured voice barely steady

“if there’s a mark I will not leave you, mere paas concealer bhi nahi hai”

A soft hum vibrated against her skin, amused, infuriatingly calm

His forehead rested briefly against her shoulder breath, warm grounding

One hand stayed firm at her waist thumb tracing slow circles, as of reminding her and himself to not cross the line

Not here

Not unless she is ready  

He could feel her fast breathing, her nervousness the way her voice trembled

He lifted his head just enough for his lips to brush her ear

“relax” he murmured low and control

“we don’t want something we do for the first time to be in my office against a table. Do we?”

Her fingers tightened in his coat instinctively not pulling him closer just holding grounding herself in him

Her forehead pressed to his shoulder as she exhaled a shaky breath

“i..” she swallowed then lifted her face just enough to whisper honest and a little breathless

“I can have it anywhere… if its with you”

That did it

The teasing vanished

His arms came around her fully, he pulled her away from the table into hic chest, one hand firm on her back, the other cradling her head as he rested his cheek against her hair

A soft chuckle escaped him not mocking but touched by her trust

“pagal ladki” he said eyes closing for a second

He pressed a slow kiss into her hair, lingering there

“listen to me, bacha” he said gently as if making a child understand

He leaned back just enough to look at her thumb brushing beneath her eyes gently

“I won’t ever make it just any place for you”

She stilled for a moment 

His chin rested on top of her head as he continued voice softer

“you deserve moments not corners

Time not impulse

And respect, always”

Her arms slid around his waist fully cheek pressed to his chest as a small smile curved her lips

The tension eased, replaced by something warmer safer

She hugged him tighter

He stayed there with her rocking them gently thumb tracing slow claiming circles against her back until her breathing matched his

For a moment he thought about her words

‘anywhere if its with you,’

Something inside him stilled that moment

Not because he didn’t want her

He wanted her too much

Holding her there, against his chest hearing his name like that from her he felt that pull… the instinct to take, to claim, to let their desire speak louder than restraint, he knew it would have been easy

Her warmth, the way she fit into him like she was made for that exact space the trust in her voice

That’s what stopped everything.. the trust

He realized that he was afraid… afraid of hurting someone by wanting them wrong

With her

Control wasn’t about dominance it was about care

As he pulled her closer

‘I don’t want your memories of me, of us to be rushed’ he thought

‘I want them to be pure, steady, safe, something you smile at years later’

Her hugging him back, relaxing into him told him he had chosen correctly

He wants to protect her, from the world even from what they were becoming

After a few moments of silence

He looked down at her, his hand lifting slowly like he wanted to memorize the moment

His fingers brushed against the temple, gently tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear

The touch was feathering light intimate, in a way that had nothing to do with proximity

His thumb lingered half a second near her cheek as if reluctant to move

“you are looking so beautiful baby”

he said softly

And this time it wasn’t just words

The cotton saree sat effortlessly on her, simple yet striking, the fabric falling naturally against her frame

The black bindi centred her face, drawing his eyes straight to hers, those kohl lined eyes that always undid him a little more than he liked to admit

The sindoor at her hairline, and the mangalsutra resting against her chest, her oxidized jhumka perfectly framing her face

She felt his gaze before she could process his words

Her lashes fluttered as she looked down for a moment, lips curling into a shy smile

A faint blush crept up her cheeks

“hmm accha hai”

she said lightly trying to cover it up

“aap tareef nahi karte toh abhi sar pe Chadha deti aapke saare office ko”

He chuckled under his breath the sound low and fond eyes still on her face

“saree kisne lagayi” he asked casually

She shrugged immediately rolling her eyes

“ayra ne, kya batau avi poori gadbad ho gayI thi”

she started hands already moving as she launched into her rant earlier shyness going away

“pehle pleats idhar udhar, phir pallu short, maine bola usse perfect hai chord na and she said Bhabhi andhe hogaye ho aap jaldi mei—”

She kept talking, animated, expressive, completely herself

And he?

He didn’t interrupt

Didn’t correct

He just watched her, eyes soft, mouth tilted in a quiet smile

He took in the way her brown moved when she complained, the way her hands illustrated everything, the way her voice rose and fell

This was what undid him fully

Not surprise or the saree but her

Her comfort, her presence, her unfiltered way of filling spaces

She finally noticed his silence and paused looking at him

“kya?” she asked

“aap suun nahi rahe na?”

He smiled reaching out holding her hand pressing a gentle kiss on her palm

“suun raha hoon” he said honestly

“bass dekh bhi raha hu”

he said making her blush all over again

Kaashvi suddenly shifted, sliding off his lap before he could pull her back again

She straightened, smoothening her saree, then turned to him with that familiar ‘now listen to me’ look in her eyes

Before he could say or ask anything she reached for the bag kept on table and pressed it against hic chest

“abb” she said firmly

“go and change first”

He blinked, looked at the bag then back at her

“for what?” he asked brows knitting slightly

She tilted her head, eyes sparkling voice turning playful but authoritative

“aaj ka din aapka nahi…mera hai, aura mera matlab” she added poking his chest lightly leaning closer

“hum dono ka hai neta jii”

He stared at her for a second processing everything

Then one corner of his mouth lifted

“kya plan kiya hai madam”

He asked slowly suspicion mixed with amusement

She grinned

“bhaut kuch jaaneman aap ready to hoiye”

That was all he needed

Shaking his head with a quiet chuckle, he turned toward the adjoining room, just before going he looked at her once

The door closed behind him

The moment he was gone kaashvi’s authority evaporating

She dropped into his chair with a satisfied sigh, the chair rolled back slightly and her eyes widened with amusement

“yess”

She pushed her feet against the desk lightly, spinning the chair once

Then again and again like a child

A soft laugh escaped her as she rotated, completely like a child now

“haaye bachpan ki yaad aa gayi abb se iss mei ghumne ke liye aaungi inke office” she muttered to herself

The chair finally slowed, and her gaze landed on his phone lying casually on the desk

She hesitated for a moment but then picked it up

“kya patni hu dekh sakti hu” she told as if someone can listen

She unlocked it easily, ofcourse she knew the password

Her thumb scrolled lazily emails, calendar, reminders, files, all organized, controlled. All very him

She smiled softly

She leaned back, spinning once more

Kaashvi sat cross legged on his chair now, one knew tucked under the other, leaning slightly sideway so her elbow rested on the edge of desk

The chair rotated lightly a rhythmic spin as she scrolled through his phone lazily

But she noticed something

She frowned slightly, thumb hovering

There was no Instagram

“hein?? Mera pati aadivaasi hai kya” she muttered under her breath looking but didn’t find the app

“ye konsi saddi mei jee rahe yaar” she said offended on humanity’s behalf

The soft knock on the cabin door made her look up

“andar aa jaiye” she said

The door opened and his secretary stepped in

“sir—”

He stopped as he looked at her

His eyes went from chair to her and then to chair again

Kaashvi sitting comfortably on his seat, like she owned the place his phone in her hand

“oh” he said “mam”

She smiled politely immediately straightening a little

“woh sir?” he asked glancing around the room

“woh change kar rahe hai” she replied easily

Arjun froze for a second

His gaze flickered around the room then back at her the to the closed door as if he realized something

Something unspoken, but very incorrectly assumed passed across his face

Kaashvi noticed her eyes widening

“aree –” she said quickly waving her hand

“we are going out isliye”

The clarification hit him, making him look at her with a “ohh” expression he nodded a little too fast

“okay mam I will let everyone know sir wont be available today”

She smiled warmly as he left the door shut behind him

Kaashvi let out a long breath, slumping back dramatically in the chair

“abhi toh kiya hi nahi kuch pata nahi sab kya kya soch lete hai humare liye” she sighed

She spun the chair once more rotating fully looking at the glass window

That when the door opened

Aviraj stepped out dressed in the white collared sweat shirt,

She didn’t notice first lost in her thoughts

He paused looking at her leaning slightly against the door frame, arms crossed as he took the sight of her sitting in his chair, cross legged like a bored child, rotating slowly

A soft smile curved his lips

“phir bolegi bacchi nahi biwi” he muttered under his breath fond amusement laced into words

He walked closer

The faint sound of his sneakers made her glance up

She was about to say something

“avi—”

And then she stopped

Her eyes stuck on him

Because he wasn’t in his usual crisp shirt and formal pants

He was in casuals

a sweat shirt, sleeves hugging his arms just enough, paired with relaxed trousers, no blazer, no files just him

her breath caught her eyes never leaving him

the chair stopped rotating without her even realizing

she tilted her head up at him to look properly

really look

the sharp jaw line softened

the light stubble, his hair slightly messy touching his forehead, the ease in his shoulders the way his presence still filled the room without command

for a second she forgot everything

forgot the plan, the teasing, literally everything

aviraj stopped right infront of her as she stood up looking at him

“noor-“

he said softly

She didn’t answer just kept looking at him

Slowly, openly ogling at her husband

Like she was memorising him in this version too

He kept standing there for a second watching her stare at him like that, open, unfiltered a little too intense

It took him a moment to register it

“noor-“

he said again, confuse a shy smile tugging at his lips despite himself

The faint blush crept up his cheekbones, barely there but visible

She blinked still lost

She stayed frozen there still staring at him like her mind hadn’t caught up with reality yet

“avi”

she breathed softer

He shifted his weight slightly, hands slipping into his pockets very aware of her gaze on him

He wasn’t used to being looked at like this, like he was something precious instead of composed and untouchable

She tilted her head eyes still tracing him

“avi mujhse shaadi karoge”

The words left her mouth without realising, so naturally, that for half a second, she didn’t realise what she had said

He blinked, once, twice

Then a slow helpless smile tugged at his lips despite his best effort to stay composed

His head dipped, chin lowering as if hiding the sudden warmth flooding his face, the faint blush deepened

“noor” he said quietly a soft laugh tucked into the word

“ho rakhi hai”

That did it

Her eyes widened

Reality snapped back into place

She blinked snapped out of her trance

“ohh—woh” she blinked hard finally breaking the stare heat rushing to her own cheeks

“i—haa”

She looked at him again, properly this time

“phir bolenge meri izzat loot rahi hai” she muttered to herself

He heard it, ofcourse he did

The corner of his mouth twitched

The helpless smile returned slow and unguarded now, the kind he never allowed himself infront of anyone else

His eyes stayed on her warm, observant quietly amused

He tilted his head slightly, pretending innocent

“kuch bola?” he asked voice calm almost curious

She stiffened for half a second

Then immediately shook her head a little too fast

“nahi nahi” she said quickly

“kuch suna aapne?”

He raised an eyebrow she avoided his gaze

He shrugged casually hands slipping back into his pocket

“nahi” he said tone easy 

“bas izzat thodi bachani padegi”

Her head snapped up

He was smiling soft, fond

She narrowed her eyes at him, fighting a smile of her own

“aap bohot zyada sunte ho” she accised

“sirf tumhari” he replied simply gaze steady on her

She rolled her eyes lips curling clearing her throat she looked at him like nothing had happened

“aap insta use nahi karte?” she asked casually

He frowned slightly

“nahi”

She looked at him, being done eyes flat expression bored

“seriously avi insta?”

Hr shrugged unbothered

“zarurat nahi”

She looked at him eyes narrowed in mock judgement

“aise kaise chalega?”

“aaram se” he replied calmly

She huffed rolling her eyes

“accha aao aaj pehle aapka account banate hai”

“no” he said immediately

She blinked

“matlab?”

“I am not going to use it anyway” he said simply

“time waste hai”

She looked at it being offended with a dramatic sigh

“you think I do time waste” she said

He didn’t miss the shift

The dramatic sigh

He tilted his head watching with that calm unreadable expression that always irritated her more than open teasing

“I didn’t say that” he replied evenly

She crossed her arms immediately

“but you implied it na” she shot back

“time waste bola aapne matlab mai reels dekh ke time waste karti hu?”

He sighed softly stepping closer voice steady, calming in a way only with her

“noor” he said slower now

“jo tum ye sar dard bolti ho, raat ko books kholti ho or uske baad sidhe pehle reels dekhti hu ek tareeke se its an addiction”

He didn’t raise his voice

That’s what made it harder

He stayed right there in front of her calm, grounded eyes steady on hers not accusing just honest

“listen to me carefully okay?” he said quietly deliberately

She looked at him confused

“you come back after a shift of hours, your head hurting, your body exhausted you tell me you will rest for 10 minutes and then open your books”

She opened her mouth to interrupt

“and then” he continued gently cutting her off without sharpness

“before your mind even settles you pick up your phone, reels, shorts, random noise”

She frowned

“aree it helps me relax avi”

“I know” he nodded

“and that’s what makes it dangerous”

That made her pause

He stepped closer now close enough that she could feel the warmth of him his hand lifting to her cheek thumb brushing softly under her eyes where dark circles were slightly visible

“noor” he said softer but firmer

“relaxing is rest, but what you do is overload”

She swallowed, still ready to argue still defensive

“but everyone does it” she said

He sighed

“everyone is not preparing for PG” he said simply

“everyone is not you”

She went quiet

“kitne mahine bache hai exam ko?” he asked gently but voice firm

She looked down, but didn’t answer

He didn’t push

Just looked at her letting the silence work

“exactly 6 right” he said making her nod slowly

“and you already give more than most people could handle, hospital hours, patients, and then you sit with your books”

His hand slid to cup her both cheeks now

“and then when your brain demands rest you punish it again with the phone” he murmured

“that’s not relaxation, is it?” he said softly as if trying to make a child understand

She nodded slowly, her eyes dropped

“I am not scolding you, jaan” he added immediately voice softening

“I am protecting you because I care… your future, your mind”

She whispered almost to herself

“I feel tired most of the time”

“I know” he said

“that’s why I am strict here”

His thumb brushed her cheek again

“you don’t need to be prefect, you study, but you do need rest”

He pulled back just enough to look at her, arms firm around her

“avi aap bhaut strict hore ho itna toh mai dekhti bhi—” as she was saying she stopped seeing his stern eyes looking down again

His thumb paused on her cheek

Not harsh or angry just steady

He didn’t let her finish

He pulled back just enough to look at her properly arms still around her like an anchor, his expression shifting, less soft now, more resolved

The kind of look that told her this wasn’t negotiable

“kya?” he said quietly

And she quickly shook her head

“aap bolo” she said

“I know” he said quietly

“I know I am different with you”

Her eyes lifted

“and you know that too noor” he continued voice calm but unyielding

“I bend, I listen to you, I wait, I slow down, I let things take time”

He held her gaze unwavering

“but not with your studies”

Her lips parted, a put already forming

“we are taking everything slow” he said deliberately measured

“because right not what matters is this” he said lightly tapping near her temple with his thumb

“your mind, your future, your career”

She shifted in his arms

“avii—” she said

He shook his head gently stopping her again

“even if you get upset with me” he said voice lower now

“even if you think I am being unfair…I will be strict here”

There was something heavy in his words, protective, final

Her lips pushed out fully now, eyes narrowing as she muttered

“aap mere avi nahi ho”

That earned him the faintest curve of smile

He leaned just enough so she couldn’t avoid his eyes his

“mai wahi hu” he said quietly

“but yaha zimmedar hona padega kaashvi”

Her pout deepened lashes lowering

“mujhe mera woh wale avi chahiye” she murmured stubbornly

“jo mujhe dekhte hi bole ‘jaisa meri noor chahe’

His chest rose with a slow breath

“I do say that” he replied calmly

“har jagah har baat mei”

His hand slid from her cheek to the back of her neck

“but yaha” he added tapping her temple again

“agar mai sirf tumhara avi ban gaya toh mai tumse tumhara future naa cheen lu”

Her eyes flickered

“you don’t see it” he continued voice low buts steady

“but I do, the hours you work, the nights you push yourself, the way you smile even when you are exhausted”

She swallowed

“I wont be the man who lets you burn out because you didn’t want me to be ‘strict’

Her voice came smaller now

“toh aap meri suunogi hi nahi?”

He shook his head immediately

“I listen to you more than anyone” he said

“but listening doesn’t always mean agreeing”

His thumb brushed under her eyes slow tender

“sometimes it means protecting you from yourself”

She looked at him, at the calm certainty in his eyes, the care wrapped in discipline

“…you are annoying” she muttered

That finally made him

“and you are stubborn” he replied softly

“mera ziddi bacha”

She leaned into him despite herself forehead pressing into his chest still sulking

“but you are still my avi” she said quietly

His arms tightened around her, voice murmuring into her hair

“always”

She pulled back just enough to look at him, eyes suddenly soft, too soft

“accha fine” she said quickly tone suspiciously reasonable

He looked at her

“lo abb chal gaya hoga inka shaitaan dimag”

he thought knowing

“lets decide” she said

He narrowed his eyes already sensing a trap

“I will send you only 10 reels per day

 she held up her fingers to count

“sirf 10”

“and mai bhi bass max aadha ghanta dekhungi bass pakka promise”

He opened his mouth to object

“noor—”

But she didn’t let him

She tilted her head slightly, lashes lowering that pleading look settling in, the one that wasn’t dramatic or demanding just quiet and hopeful

The kind that went straight under his skin

“please na” she added softly

“itna compromise toh banta hai na?”

There it was, her weapon

That look

“socho na avi mujhe emergency hogi toh I will just dm you”

He stared at her being done, eyes flat look bored

“emergency ke liye calls hoti hai noor”

But she looked at him eyes pleading

He exhaled softly eyes closing for half a second like he was gathering his patience that he does only when she is the person infront

“..you play unfair” he muttered

Her lips twitched knowing it worked

Still he reached onto the table taking his phone and handed it to her without another word

“half an hour” he said firmly

“only 10 reels not even 11”

Her face lit up instantly

“done” she grinned excitement spilling over her as she took the phone, fingers already moving

He shook his head, resigned, and sat down on the chair behind him

She didn’t ask or hesitated

Just turned, climbed onto his lap like it was the most natural thing, settling sideways against him, resting her head on his chest, still engrossed in phone

His arms came around her, instinctively one resting at her waist the other bracing the arm rest

“comfortable?” he asked quietly

She nodded eyes glued to the screen

“very” she replied

He looked down at her then, the way her excitement softened her face, the small smile she got when she was winning the way she leaned into him without thinking

Something in him eased

For all his rules, his discipline, his worry ..

This, he could never deny

He adjusted slightly so she sat better chin resting near her temple watching her more than the screen

“username?” she asked as she immediately went into full focus mode

He answered without hesitation

“aviraj kaashvi singh”

Her finger pauses mid air

She slowly turned her head to look at him, eyes wide, brows lifting

“pakka?” she asked

He met her faze calmly completely unfazed

“haa if we are doing this it will be on my terms”

She stared at him for a second longer then laughed softly shaking her head

“avi ye aapka account hai” she murmured

He gave a small shrug arm tightening slightly around her waist

“aur tum meri biwi” he replied evenly

That shut her up

She adjusted herself more comfortably on his lap, leaning back into him

“hmm” she hummed

“chalo phir aaj insta hi update karte hai pehle dono ka baaki sab baad mei”

She looked down at his phone again already planning

“mera purse lao” she said

He glanced towards the table, and reached out picking up her purse, placing it in her lap

She didn’t look up still busy in his phone

“mera phone bhi nikaldo”

That made him pause

He looked at her, not sure if he should look at her personal things

“noor” he said slowly

“tumhara purse hai”

She finally looked at him

“toh? Mai kisi aur ki biwi hu?

Mai aapka phone chala rahi hu” she said

“aap mera purse nahi khol sakte?”

Then with a smug little smile she said

“waise bhi kuch ulti seedhi cheez nahi milegi aapko uss mei”

He exhaled through his nose already knowing it’s a lost battle for him

“as you say” he muttered opening the purse

The first thing he saw was a lip gloss, then a couple of crushed chocolate wrappers, a chips packet folded messily

A pen, her wallet, and a small diary

And finally, her phone tucked at the bottom

He picked it up shaking his head

“bass faltu chizen khila lo yaha bhi chips, chocolate—” he scolded quietly voice slipping into that firm serious tone

She rolled her eyes dramatically

“lecture baad mei Dadaji” she said sweetly, taking her phone from his hand

He leaned back against the chair, defeated but amused watching her fuss over his account

She worked with quiet focus now, thumbs moving quickly as she set things up properly

From his account to profile photo

She smiled to herself then

Then she picked up her own phone unlocked it and without a second went straight to insta and its settings

Username edit, her fingers hovered for half a second as she typed

Kaashvi_aviraj_singh

Aviraj watched her silently arms still around her chin resting lightly near her temple

He didn’t interrupt didn’t comment

Just held her a little closer, eyes on her face

She was scrolling when she suddenly paused

“wait”

She tilted her head thinking then groaned softly

“avii” she said

“humne sath mei kabhi post hi nahi kiya”

He looked down at her confused for a second

“toh kardo” he said simply like it was the most obvious thing in the world

She turned her head slowly to look at him completely unimpressed

“kya karu?” she asked flatly

“koi photo hai hi nahi sath mei jo post ho”

She sighed dramatically shoulders slumping a little as she leaned back into him

He leaned further into chair relaxed, unbothered voice calm

“ye sab tum hi dekho noor” he said like he was giving entire social media department to her

She stared at him for a second, she huffed cheeks puffing slightly

“chordo baad mei dekhte hai finally aapka account ban gaya or deal yaad rakhna you have to watch every reel I send” she said locked his phone handing it back to him

He took it and without saying a word

As she stood up already ready to leave, he unlocked his phone, opened Instagram, searched one name

Kaashvi aviraj singh

And just tapped follow, quiet, intentional

Just one account, only hers

He locked the phone standing up looking at her

They were just about to leave

She stepped ahead first, already half turned away fixing her hair, excitement humming under her skin, when suddenly his fingers closed around her wrist, warm and firm stopping her gently

“noor”

She turned back

There was something different in his eyes now

Before she could ask anything, he reached into his pocket

Her brows knitting in confusion

Then he pulled out a small little familiar box,

Kohl

Her breath hitched softly

“ye-“ she started surprised

He didn’t say anything just stepped closer

She stayed still as he leaned in, his hand dippin lightly into the small box his touch soft, careful, reverent like this wasn’t a habit but ritual

Slowly he applied a small kaala tika just behind her ear

The way he always did

Her lashes lowered instantly shyness blooming warm in her chest

“aap…ye humesha rakhte ho?” she asked softly

He smiled low, unmistakably his

“aap humesha itni khoobsurat lagengi” he replied evenly

“rakhna toh padega hi”

Her lips curved despite himself

She looked down fingers curling into her saree

Then suddenly as if remembering something important

She slipped her hand into her purse

“haanth dijiye” she said eyes lighting up softly

He didn’t question it

Just extended his hand toward her

She pulled out the kaala dhaaga carefully, her movements slow and gently

“mai aate hue mandir gayi thi” she said quietly as she tied it around his wrist fingers brushing his skin

“ye aapko saari problems, nazar sabse bachayega”

she said securing the knot eyes focused voice steady

Then she looked up, stepping closer

Her hand rose to his face, cupping his cheek softly thumb brushing his jaw

“mere avi par bhi kisi ki nazar ka haq nahi” she said softly but firmly

He didn’t move, didn’t blink

Just looked at her, eyes softening like something settled deep inside him

As they walked again his strides slow to match hers, he pulled out his phone and wallet handing it to her

“isse apne purse mei rakhdo” he said simply

She stopped mid step stared at what he had just handed her then looked up at him with immediate protest written all over her face

“avi” she whined dragging the word

“purse bhaut bhaari ho jayega na”

The corner of his mouth lifted as he looked at her amused, he glanced at her once then ahead and then back at her again

“waise tum bhaagte hue yaha teen bags laayi thi” he said casually

She blinked and then smiled

That slow innocent unapologetic smile

He exhaled through his nose shaking his head

Still she opened her purse shifting things around slipping in his phone and wallet zipping it shut with exaggerated care

“there” she said proudly starting to walk again

Just two steps ahead

That’s all he gave her before his hand closed around the strap of her purse gently but firmly lifted it from her hand

She turned

“avi-“

He didn’t stop walking just took her purse in his hands and with other hand slid his fingers in hers as she stared at him while he just kept walking beside her

Like the line between mine and yours had quietly stopped existing somewhere along the way

They were almost out the door when aviraj reached instinctively for the keys on the console

“no no no”

her voice cut in lightly, immediately

He paused mid movement, looked at her

Kaashvi stood there with that dangerous little smile already forming

“aaj aapki car nahi” she said lifting her chin slightly

“meri scooty chalegi”

For a second his brain stopped he looked at her brows knitted

“what?”

Not annoyed or amused just caught off guard

The concern slid in sharp and fast as he realised her words

“tum scooty mei aayi ho?”

She nodded completely unfazed

“toh?”

His jaw tightened, his tone dropped automatically serious now, eyes scanning her face

“ye safe nahi hai car le aati, driver ko bol deti, ghar par kisi ko—”

She stepped closer and put a hand stopping his spiral

“arrey” she said half laughing half amused

“aap aise bol rahe ho jaise mujhe scooty chalani nahi aati” she said

He stared at her

“Dehradun mei bhaut chalayi hai maine aur—” she added casually

That did it

He exhaled through his nose, rubbed his jaw once his expression changed now

“noor tum suunti kyu nahi ho kabhi”

His voice came out sharper than he intended

Not loud but edged, controlled irritation layered with fear

For a moment she stilled

“avi—” as she was about to say

He went on before she could even process it, words coming out in that clipped authoritative cold tone, he used everywhere,

The one she almost never heard directed at her

“delhi aur Dehradun mei difference hai kaashvi

Yaha ke traffic ka pata haI?? Bina security, bina driver

Kuch ho jaata toh?? Road isn’t some playground tum jaanti bhi ho—”

He stopped himself looking at her being startled, but the damage was already done

“we are going in the car” he said finally, firm

“no more discussion”

For a moment there was just silence

Kaashvi looked at him then

Just once

Her eyes weren’t angry, weren’t dramatic they were hurt

“fine..”

she said softly her throat bobbling

The single word landed heavier than any argument could have

She didn’t defend

Didn’t even pouted or pleaded

Didn’t push back

She just looked down, turned and walked to the couch, sitting on the edge of it back to him, shoulders slightly hunched

Her hands folded in her lap

That’s when it hit him, hard

He stood there frozen, keys clenched in his hands replaying his own voice in his hand

The sharpness, the authority, the way he hadn’t asked but ordered

For the first time

He had spoken to her the way he spoke to the world

Not the way he spoke to his noor

His chest tightened

“shit..”

he muttered under his breath

Slowly he placed the car keys back on the console,

He exhaled long and heavy rubbing his face with his hands

Then he walked to her

She didn’t turn

He lowered himself in front of her, knees touching the floor, just on level with her face,

“noor” he said softly

She didn’t look at him, eyes fixed somewhere on the floor, lashes lowered

“noor” this time it didn’t sound like a call but like a plea

She stayed still, too still her hands rested in her lap, fingers knotted together, knuckles faintly white

Her gaze remained glued to the floor as if looking at him would make something spill that she wasn’t ready to let out

That silence hit him harder than any argument could ever win

He swallowed, being down on his knees eye level with her pain made everything clear

There was no authority, no control, just a husband who messed up

His hand moved on instinct, resting lightly on her thigh

‘I raised my voice

At her’ he realized

The realization sat heavy in his chest, he had argued with people, shouted, threatened but never her, never his noor

He had promised she would never hear that tone from him, never see him like this

And yet

“I shouldn’t have snapped” he thought

“I scared her”

He swallowed, thumb brushing her saree

“I shouldn’t have spoken like that” he said quietly voice low, stripped of command

“I was scared for you, not angry”

Still nothing came from her

He leaned a little closer, careful now, like approaching something fragile

“jaan” he said softly

“look at me…please”

She didn’t

And that hurt him more than any argument ever could because that was the one thing, he can’t win with or even stand- her silence

He closed his eyes for a second exhaled slowly then spoke again, gentler, slower every word weighed

“I cant compromise on your safety” he said quietly

“please try to understand, bacha”

His words slipped out, instinctive, raw

She stayed silent, staring ahead, ignoring him not out of spite but because if she looked at him, she might break

He sighed long and tired the fight draining out of him completely

Without another word, he shifted, standing up enough to move then sat behind her on the couch, careful and unhurried

Her back pressed against his chest, his arms came around her slowly

One arm settled over her stomach

The other wrapped around her waist

He didn’t pull her closer, just stayed

His chin hovered near her shoulder, breath warm against her hair

“you can be upset with me” he said gently

“you can say no, you can argue with me”

His voice softened more

“but don’t shut me out like this”

Finally her shoulders trembled a little, just once a tiny crack in her stillness

He noticed immediately

“baby” he murmured instinct taking over shifting a little closer

“I am not angry, and I am not trying to win”

he said again voice lower

His thumb moved in the smallest circle soothing without demand

He let her silence stay, didn’t rush it, didn’t try to fix immediately

He knew better that this wasn’t something to be solved it was something to be held

“I know my fear comes out wrong” he admitted

“I know I turn harsh when I am scared”

“but loosing you….” His breath hitched just slightly

Even the thought shuts everything else off his mind

Her shoulders softened a fraction

He tightened his hold just a little

“just don’t be alone” he whispered

“let me sit here, even in your silence”

For a long moment there was only their breathing, hers uneven his deliberately slow

She moved slowly, just a quiet turn of her shoulders until she was leaning into him instead of away

His eyes closed at that a quiet relief washed through him

The moment her face came into view his chest tightened

Her eyes glossy, lashes lowered, nose faintly red like she was holding herself, not crying badly not accusing

Just hurt

“noor”

he whispered instinctively lifting one hand to her cheek but stopping midway, as if afraid even that might be too much

She looked down lips pressed together

A small sniff escaped her

“aapne gussa kiya…” she said quietly like a child complaining

Just three words

She didn’t finish the sentence, didn’t need to

His jaw clenched, he pulled her closer gently, her face turning into his chest as his arms wrapped around her fully this time, no hesitation, no space left between them

One hand cradled the back of her head, fingers spreading protectively through her hair the other hand firm on her bacl

“I know” he said softly voice rough

“I know meri jaan”

He pressed his lips into her hair, into a slow grounding kiss

“I shouldn’t have” he murmured against her crown

“I swear I never want to use that voice for you”

She stayed quiet

His thumb began slow steady strokes at the back of her head the way he did when he wanted to calm her

“I am sorry, noor”

He leaned his forehead against hers now forcing her to look at him gently

Her lashes fluttered, another small sniff came

He brushed his thumb under her eyes, wiping away the moisture, before it could fall

“hey” he murmured softer

“don’t try to hide them baby”

She looked at him now

“when its you, I get scared, my brain stops doing logic”

he admitted

“it makes me forget how gentle I am supposed to be with you”

His nose brushed hers lightly

“but you are not the world I fight” he said

“you are the place I come back to”

He pulled her into his chest again tighter this time rocking her almost slowly like a child

“bolo phirse nahi gussa karoge” she said voice soft almost like a child

He stilled at her words

Not because she demanded anything dramatic

Just something that wont hurt them both

His grip tightened, his eyes softened completely

He pulled back just a little enough to rest his forehead against the side of her head

“phirse?” he repeated quietly almost pained

His thumb brushed her cheek

“mai tum par kabhi gussa nahi karna chahta” he said voice low, steady

She watched him closely now

He cupped her face fully this time both hands gentle but firm

“not like that” he added softly

“not ever”

His eyes didn’t leave hers

“if it happens again” he continued

“I will stop, I will breathe, I will talk to you”

For a moment he paused as if promising something important

“I will never turn my fear into something that hurts you”

She looked at him, eyes glossy

He leaned in brushing his lips against her forehead

“I promise” he murmured there

“you are my soft space jaan”

“me, my voice, my world, even myself doesn’t get to be harsh here”

He pulled her back into his chest chin resting lightly on her head

“kabhi mai bhul jau” he added gently fingers brushing her hair

“you remind me like this, not by breaking yourself, but by trusting me”

His thumb traced slow circles on her arm

“chilla lo, daant lena” he continued softly

“but chup hoke dur matt jaana”

Her fingers tightened in his shirt at that

She shifted slightly pressing closer forehead, resting against his chest now

He felt the warm brush of her breath through the fabric

“I can handle you upset” he said

“I can handle you fighting”

“but I cant even stand you disappearing right infront of me”

Her lashes fluttered one tear escaped finally sliding down her cheek

He saw it

His hand came up immediately catching it with his thumb as if even that tear deserved respect

She shook her head faintly voice breaking when she spoke

“you sounded like…like everyone else for a moment like I am being immature and you cant stand…” she says but he stops her

He stopped her before the sentence could finish

“no” the word wasn’t sharp, it was firm, grounding

“do not ever think like that” he said quietly

“for me” he continued voice slower now

“there is no version of you that is too much”

“no version that is immature, inconvenient or, something I cant stand”

He leaned his forehead gently against the side of her head

“I don’t care what this world thinks,”

His thumb brushed away the wetness on her cheek again softly

“I don’t see you through their eyes”

She finally looked up at him, hesitant, searching

“what I see—"
 he said meeting her gaze

“is just my noor, girl who feels deeply, who doesn’t do half care, the girl who have the power to change my world just by one word”

A faint smile touched his lips

Her lower lip trembled

He cupped her face fully, both hands holding her like something precious

“you are not a problem to be fixed

You are not someone I tolerate

You are the only place my mind actually rests”

“you don’t think of me as…too emotional, difficult?” she asked

He didn’t hesitate even for a second

“no”

“never” he repeated

“you feel, and you feel honestly that’s not weakness, that’s depth”

A faint exhale left almost a small smile

“and protecting your emotions, understanding them, making you feel safe enough to share is the least I can do for the woman i…”

he stopped as if realising what was about to leave his mouth

She looked at him confused but expression softened

“when you cry I don’t think its inconvenient”
I think its someone who lets me see her unguarded”

He brushed his nose lightly against hers

“when you get quiet I don’t think you are difficult
I worry because even your silence matters”

“you don’t exhaust me,
You anchor me”

He pulled her closer

“I am not the one to say much to anyone but I will explain a thousand times if its you, I deal with the world by hardening myself
With you I want to learn”

His hand slid to back of her head holding here there his forehead touching hers their eyes closed

“you are exactly how you are supposed to be, exactly the way…. I needed
You existing , Is enough”

Her face folded into his chest, a quiet sob slipping out before she could stop

“aapne aaj mujhe rulane ki kasam khayi hai kya gande aadmi” she said punching his chest lightly

“itna ready hui thi mai, saara makeup gaya bhootni lag rahi hu abb”

A soft breath left him, half laugh half relief as her words broke through the heaviness

He tightened his arms around her

He leaned back just enough to look at her face, tear smudged makeup and all

His eyes softened further

“bhootni?” he repeated pretending to inspect her seriously tilting her chin up with two fingers

“hmm” he paused

“sabse dangerous wali” he said

She sniffed like a child pouting but trying not to smile

“aur sabse pyari”

he said leaning down near her cheeks biting and nibbling on them gently making her gasp

“kya hai avi” she exclaimed

He caught her hand mid push this time lacing his fingers with hers pulling her back into him

She pulled her face sniffing once more gesturing at herself

“abb kaise jaaye” she said miserably

“meri shakal dekhiye”

He just smiled

Not the teasing one but the softer knowing smile

Without answering he stood up

She frowned

“avi kaha--?”

“wait” he said simply already moving away

She watched him go, confused, wiping her nose with the back of her hand like an offended child

A minute later he returned a handkerchief in his hand slightly damp

He sat down infront of her again

“idhar aao” he murmured

She leaned forward

With careful concentration he lifted the cloth and began dabbing and wiping her face, slowly, gently

Under her eyes, then her cheeks

“will it be weird if I say I am obsessed with your cheeks”

he admitted

His words hung between them simple and unguarded

She blinked at him, caught off guard her lips parting slightly

“obsessed?” she repeated

He nodded once unapologetic, still focused as his thumb wiped the kajal

“they react before you do” he said quietly

“when you are happy the lift up instantly with your smile, when you are about to cry they are slightly red and warm”

He said with a small smile

“and only I get to see the two small moles that adore them”

She looked at him, surprised

She huffed a small breath something between a laugh and a sniffle

He didn’t rush it

The handkerchief moved slowly like he was afraid to hurt her

He wiped just beneath her eyes first, thumb steadying her cheek

When he pulled away he leaned in pressing a soft kiss right where he had wiped

Her breath hitched

“stay still
 he said softly she nodded instantly

He moved to other cheek next, gently wiping eyes focused, brows furrowed like it was the most important task

When he was done another kiss followed lingering there

“all fixed” he said tone gentle

“see? Still you, still beautiful”

Her gaze dropped shy despite herself  

When he was done he reached out for her purse and then looked at her

“khol lu?” he asked glancing at her

She nodded

He opened it, fingers moving with familiarity, pulled out her lip gloss twisted it open then looked at her

“mouth” he instructed

She parted her lips slightly without saying anything

He leaned in and applied it carefully thumb steadying her chin eyes to intent and absorbed in work, too close, too intimate she could feel his breath, the smell of his cologne

“bas” he said pulling back slightly

Then he slipped his hand into the pocket, and took out the same small box of kohl

She looked at him

“aap—”

“trust me” he said gently

“look up” he said and she did

He applied it lightly, barely touching her skin, his thumb resting under her eyes, the closeness made her breath hitch, her fingers curling into his shirt but she didn’t move

When he pulled back her eyes looked lined, brighter

She blinked once and looked at him as his gaze found hers

She smiled faintly then tilted her head

“blush kaha se lagaoge?”

He looked at her a slow mischievous smirk curved his lips,

“for that” he said quietly leaning in

“tumhara pati kaafi hai”

Before she could react, he turned her gently, pulled her into him her back touching his chest as he lifted her in his lap effortlessly

Not rough not hurried

One arm settled around her waist, the other sliding upto her back

His fingers brushed the dori of her blouse, not pulling just there

Her breath hitched the moment his arms tightened around her waist

“avi—” she gasped softly more startled

He didn’t rush didn’t tease just pulled her a little closer until her back fir perfectly against hic chest

He adjusted her slowly

“easy” he murmured near her ear voice low warmth wrapped in control

His hand slid back to her waist, fingers spreading there, thumb resting just above her hip as if memorizing the curve

The other hand travelled up her back again, just enough to find the dori of her blouse, he didn’t tug it

Just hooked a finger there lightly, intimate in a way that made her nerves light up

Her shoulders lifted with a shaky inhale

She gasped again aware of every point where the touched

He leaned forward just enough to brush her hair aside from her shoulder, his knuckles grazing her shoulder first, slowly before his lips followed

The sudden cool air against her exposed neck made her inhale softly

His chin hovered near her shoulder for a moment

Slowly brushing against her skin

His lips pressed gently against the curve where her neck met her shoulder, lingering there

Then another lighter one

Her hands move on instinct finding his hand which rested on her waist, her fingers slipped between his as he intertwined their hands tightly

She leaned back into him without thinking trusting him and his hold

He smiled softly against her shoulder feeling it, the way she melted when she felt safe

Her eyes fluttered shut on their own, lashes resting softly against her cheeks as the last of the tension left her body

She shifted just a little more into him back pressing fully against his chest now

She leaned her head slightly back resting it against his shoulder, cheek brushing the fabric of his sweatshirt

He tilted his head slowly lips hovering at the sensitive curve of her neck, feeling the warmth of her

His breath was soft brushing across her nape

Fragrance of her perfume filling his senses

“do you want me to stop” he murmured voice low, husky almost vibrating against her skin

His lips close to her hair

She didn’t open her eyes instead,

She shook her head slowly, almost shyly cheek brushing his shoulder as she leaned into him more

Hip lips pressed again, gentle at first

Tracing a small deliberated circle alone the tender line from her collarbone to ear

Then a teasing flick of his tongue brushed just beneath the curve, drawing a sharp inhale from her

“raj..”

a helpless moan escaped her lips

He froze

His lips paused, the air changed

Her breath was still uneven, eyes closed, body leaning into him without knowing what she had just done

His name from her lips

Not avi but raj

For a second it hit him deep and unguarded

His grip tightened around her

He pulled back just enough for his forehead to rest against the side of her ear, breath heavy now

“what did you just say?” he asked quietly

His hand on her waist slid more leaving her hand fingers spreading there kneading softly, as if grounding himself through her

She didn’t answer

She couldn’t, her lashes fluttered, lips parted, mind hazed body still responding to him on instinct

“say it again jaan”

he said voice dropping further lips brushing her ear this time

A small breath left her, her head tilted just slightly, an unconscious offering

She he leaned again

This time slower

His teeth caught her skin gently, before his lips soothed the spot immediately

His fingers flexed at her waist again

And then she whispered it again, soft, broken

“raj..”

That was it, something in him finally gave

A low sound left his chest barely there

He pressed his lips to the place beneath her ear again,

His other hand slid along her back teasing the dori of her blouse tugging it softly

“just mine”

he whispered close to her ear his lips brushing it voice thick with possession

“only I get this…”

Her breath hitched body tilting involuntarily into him

His lips moved with purpose now soft lingering kisses along her neck, each press slow, as is he was memorizing every line every curve

His lips planted wet open mouth kisses that trailed from her earlobe to her shoulder blade

His tongue flicking to taste put her skin

“you have no idea what you do to me”

 he murmured against her skin his teeth nipping gently at her skin before soothing it with another kiss

She trembled slightly under his touch her free hand brushing against his arm holding it tightly

Every whispered word, every soft graze of lips every teasing pull, was deliberate slow, intoxicating

He was taking his time, savouring the closeness, the warmth, her voice, the quiet surrender she offered him

His hand stilled on her waist, his lips slowly brushed away from her skin

She slightly shivered from the way he held himself back

He stopped completely

No movement no kisses nothing

His forehead resting against her temple skin to skin, his breath warm and uneven as if he forced it slow

She could feel the restraint in him the way his chest rose and fell deeper, like he was counting every inhale

“one second”

he murmured quietly more to himself than her his eyes closing

His arms stayed around her but they loosened just enough to stop overwhelm them both

His hand slid from her waist to her forearm instead thumb stroking there slow

“a..avi”

her voice slightly trembled her own breathing slow and heavy

“breath with me”

he said softly near her ear

“in …and out slowly”

She nodded, he demonstrated it deliberately exaggerating the rhythm until her body unconsciously followed

His breath steadied first, followed by her

“that’s it” he whispered

“easy baby”

His forehead pressed a little more firmly against her temple

“nothing is rushing, nothing is being taken hmm?”

he said softly

His voice softened further

“sometimes I forget” he admitted under his breath

“how much you feel and how..deeply”

His thumb traced slow circles again her arms soothing

“so we pause” he continued gently

“we will slow down, we don’t let emotions run ahead of us”

He tilted his head just enough for his lips to brush her hair

She leaned into his touch settling more into him eyes closing

He guided her down gently

“sit” he murmured one hand firm on her back, then other steadying her knees until she was settled on the couch

He didn’t rush her, didn’t let go immediately

“stay here” he added softly already turning

She watched him with hazy eyes, as he picked the the glass of water from table

He came back and lowered himself infront of her, kneeling infront of her so they were at eye level

“here” he said gently holding the glass out

She reached for it, but her hands trembled, fingers shaking slightly grip unsure the glass shook slightly

He noticed, without a word he adjusted, one hand closed over hers, steady and warm anchoring her fingers around the glass,

“aaram se” he murmured

He lifted it slowly with her guiding it toward her lips

“small sips” he instructed softly

She drank hesitant at first, then steadier

His thumb rubbed slow, reassuring circles on her knuckled while she swallowed

He waited each sip watching her face closely her breathing normal, the tension easing little by little from her shoulder

His hand came back to her knee

“better?” he asked softly

She nodded faintly

He exhaled, and leaned in his forehead briefly against her knee, a quoet, instinctive gesture before looking up at her

“next time” he said gently almost promise

“we pause sooner”

His finger squeezed her hand once, reassuring