As everything settled for a moment kaashvi and aviraj sat like that, she sat where he had guided her, knees folded on the couch, he didn’t move away keeping the glass side he settled beside her

He gently pulled her back into him, slowly and carefully like assuring without words

She came willingly this time, curling into his chest, her side pressed against his

His one arm wrapped around her waist, firm and protective

The other came around her shoulders, his palm resting flat over her upper arm thumb moving slowly to ground her

Her head tipped to the side, cheek resting against his chest

“a-avi”
she said her voice was low but there was still slight trembling in her voice

He felt it immediately the faint tremor still hiding in her voice, the way her body hadn’t fully relaxed yet

He didn’t rush her, didn’t ask a question

“shh” he murmured softly lowering his head until his lips brushed the crown of her hair

“just breathe for me, hmm?”

His arms around her waist tightened a fraction, not to pull just to remind she was held, safe

“no thinking” he added quietly

“bass saans lo, I am here”

She nodded against his chest, a small movement and curled in closer her knees tucked in more, her forehead settling fully into the space beneath his collarbone

Her fingers slipped into his shirt again

He adjusted instinctively angling, his body so she would fit better

“in..” he breathed deliberately exaggerating the inhale so she could feel it

“..and out”

Her breath stuttered at first then followed his rhythm, one breath then another,

“good, don’t be nervous, don’t think anything hmm?” he whispered when he felt her shoulders finally drop

His chin rested lightly against her head now

She nodded and exhaled again low, longer this time her body melting into him as she closed her eyes for a moment

He stayed still her weight warm against him but

His mind wasn’t quiet; it was never when it came to her

He thought of what just happened, of all the small moments that he noticed

The way her body reacted before her words ever din

How when things got a little too close, a little too intense her shoulders would stiffen first, just slightly, like her body bracing, trying to protect even though her lips said nothing

How her fingers, which usually rested so easily on him, would suddenly dig in she didn’t know which instinct to follow

He remembered her breathing changing almost like a small panic

The way her chest rose faster, uneven like she was trying to keep up with something her mind and body wasn’t ready for yet

He remembered every moment it always happened

Not when he kissed her or touched her

But when their emotions turn into intensity

When his presence stopped being just comfort and started becoming something heavier

That was when she tensed

And even though she acts she is ready

IN REALITY SHE ISN’T

HE KNEW long before she says it, it wasn’t rejection it was fear

Not of him

But something else he wants to know and understand by her

He replayed it all quietly in his head

The time her nails pressed into his hand

The way she gets silent and lost after everything

And now sitting here with her fully relaxed he understood it fully

She wasn’t ready not because she didn’t want him

She wasn’t ready because it means everything to her

Because closeness wasn’t casual for her

It was sacred

“I am okay”
she said after a moment voice small but honest

“I know” he replied immediately

“but I still need to hear you breathe like this”

He listened, let her shift, let her settle, when she fidgeted his arm tightened just enough to remind her, he was there, when she went still, he loosened again giving her space without letting go

“you can tell me” he added softly, not pushing just telling

“Whatever you thought”

She was quiet for a moment after that

He didn’t rush her, didn’t interrupt, just stayed exactly where he was, arms steady around her

Finally she spoke, hesitantly

“i..i don’t know how to explain it” she murmured voice low almost embarrassed

“I just …I feel nervous sometimes”

His chest rose slightly as he took a deeper breath but he didn’t interrupt

“matlab..” she continued shifting a little, her fingers twisting into his shirt

“not like you know bilkul hi naa sambhalne wala but …”

“some thoughts come when we ..…you know”

She paused for a moment swallowing

“I just feel..”
 she started then stopped

A small frustrated breath left her

He instinctively tightened his hold as if grounding her, slowly rubbing her arms

“I start thinking, what will you think, am I doing something wrong, am I moving too fast, too slow, and then my head just—”

She made a small helpless motion

“shuts down”

She leaned her forehead more firmly into his chest as if hiding there

“idk what it is” she said softly

“its not like I don’t want this, I do”

Her voice dropped further

“par mujhe dar lagta hai avi”

He tilted his head slightly but her eyes lowered

“kis baat ka bacha?”
he asked gently not demanding just inviting to let it out

She swallowed

“of what you will think or feel” she admitted

Her fingers fidgeted nervously now

“and I..i haven’t…you know ever—”

Her words broke cheeks warming slightly

“idk what’s right, what’s too much, what’s expected”

She shook her head slightly,

“my brain keeps asking what if I disappoint you, what if it goes wrong..”

She took another breath steadier this time

“its not like I am embarrassed about it, no” she said quietly almost defensive as if he might misunderstand

“I have always thought…

Her fingers curled tighter into his shirt lashes lowered

“..that if I ever give myself like that, I want it to be with one man for lifetime”

She paused lip pressing together searching for words that refused to come easily

“but still” she whispered

“I just feel a little” she shook her head again frustrated, her cheeks warm

“scared, not of you”

Her voice softened even more

“of losing myself, of not being enough, of not knowing things”

She went quiet again, shoulders slightly tense almost bracing for a reaction

He listened, completely, no judgement crossed his face, only understanding and something deeper

Cared edged with responsibility

Her arm around her tightened just a fraction grounding her

Something in his chest painfully softened at her honesty and trust she has on him

Slowly he shifted so he could see her face

He lifted a finger and gently tipped her chin up but her lashes were still lowered as if afraid of his reaction or judgement

“baby” he said softly steady enough to anchor her

“look at me”

His fingers stayed light under her chin, no force just invitation

When she still hesitated, he leaned in a little so she didn’t have to lift her face far, meeting her where she was instead of pulling her out of her space

“there is nothing wrong in what you just said” he continued quietly

“nothing to be ashamed of, nothing to explain away”

Her eyes finally lifted, unsure, searching his face for the smallest crack of judgement...

There was none, just calm and warmth

“I need you to hear me properly now,” he continued voice firm but the way that made her feel safe

“there is nothing you can do that disappoints me”

“nothing”

She blinked

“you are not performing for me,” he said

“you are not meeting some standard”

His thumb brushed lightly under her chin

“and I don’t feel anything except concern for one thing” he added

“whether you are okay”

Her eyes softened a little glossy again

“I don’t measure you by experience or things you give” he said gently

“I measure us by comfort”

“there is nothing we are doing that matters more than your safety and comfort” he said voice steady, certain

He leaned his forehead touching hers

“you don’t have to read my mind” he went on softly

“I don’t expect you to know things”

“I don’t expect you to be ready before you are… just for some sake, I don’t expect anything from you except honesty”

“you don’t become less because you don’t know things, we will learn”

“the moment you feel scared, confused or even the slightest discomfort”

He paused making sure she was listening

“tum bol dena, just one word”

“and we will stop right there”

“no question, no disappointment”

His hand slid to the back of her head holding gently

“your pace is the pace”

“your comfort is the rule”

She exhaled shakily leaning more into his forehead

“you don’t need to protect my feelings at cost of yours”

Her eyes finally closed as of relaxing

“you don’t owe me confidence

“you don’t owe me readiness

“you don’t owe me anything beyond honesty”

He pressed a gentle kiss to her hair

“this isn’t some test we fail

…its us, you and me together”

She leaned into him fully now the tension easing from her shoulders her head resting against his chest now

He didn’t say anything loud after that

He didn’t need to

Holding her there feeling the way her breathing finally steadied against his chest, something inside him shifted

It hit him all at once, this wasn’t just nervousness or hesitation

This was firsts

He realised slowly, that in this space, this closeness, this vulnerability, the trust she showed, he was standing where no one else ever did

Not just physically but emotionally, he was the only one

The way she questioned herself. The way she worried about what he would think

The way her fear wasn’t of intimacy but of disappointing him

And that, somehow undid him

He has seen a lot, people met him with motives, already strategic, composed but her??

She was offering him something unguarded

He was the only one she trusted, and that somehow makes her stronger to him

The thought that she hadn’t trusted anyone enough to voice her fears, that she hadn’t experienced that kind of care, patience settled heavy in chest

She is not unsure because she doesn’t want this, she is unsure because she had never been held like this before

“my strong baby” he though looking down at her resting his chin on top of her head slowly caressing her hair

AND suddenly his protectiveness sharpened, not in a possessive selfish way but in a quiet promising way

‘if I am the first, I will make sure I will be the only one the way she wants

I will be careful jaan,

I will never rush

I will make sure she never associates closeness with fear” he thought

His arm tightened around her just slightly

Her softness wasn’t a weakness

Her nervousness wasn’t immaturity

It was trust

She had trusted him enough to say, I am scared

Enough to say, I don’t know

And that responsibility

He accepted it fully

She has already given him something precious she was already here because she wants to be

All he had to do was be worthy of the care she was placing in his hands

He lowered his chin against her head, eyes closing briefly

He didn’t believe in God, never had

but he knew she did

so silently without words

he spoke to her healer,

her kanha jii

‘I don’t know how prayer works,’ he thought honestly

and I wont pretend I suddenly believe’

‘but she does, and this girl

…she is my life’

His hold on her firmed

‘so if you are listening’ he continued quietly in his mind

‘I will be accountable’

‘I will be patient’

‘I will be gentle’

‘I will make myself worthy of the faith she carries, both in you and in me’

His forehead rested against her head now skin to skin, his eyes closed

‘she should never look back at emotions and remember fear’

‘she will remember safety, choice, warmth’

‘if I am the man she learns closeness with, I will be careful

I will be steady’

He didn’t ask for blessings

Just made a silent promise to the protector

For the first time the power he held didn’t feel like control..

It felt like devotion

Her fingers tightened again knuckles faintly whitening against his shirt like the thought had slipped out before she could stop it

He could feel the way her fingers curled,

“let it out” he said softly voice low, steady

She lifted her face just enough to look at him, eyes glossy uncertain for a second, she tried to smile it off

“its nothing” she murmured

He didn’t buy it,

His gaze stayed on her patient but knowing

“bolo noor” he said gently

“I know when your head starts running”

Her eyes dropped instantly lashes lowering like she was ashamed of the thought itself her shoulders curved inward a little

“what if..” she began then stopped

Swallowed a lump formed in her throat

He waited and didn’t interrupt, didn’t rush

“what if you find someone else someday…” she said finally voice small breaking at edges

“thinking I am not enough”

Her fingers twisted into his shirt again

“not…experienced” she added hesitantly

“not the way you had want your wife to be…”

He stopped her instantly

His hand came up to her face, firm this time, not allowing the thought to keep running

“no” he said clear, unwavering

“stop right there”

She froze finally looking up at him, startled a little not scared just caught, her eyes lifting to his, on instinct

“you don’t get to tear yourself down like that in my arms” he continued quietly

His thumb brushed her cheek slow

“you are not some comparison chart noor” he said

“you are not competing with some imaginary version of the woman you think I want”

She tried to look away again, he didn’t let her

“look at me” he said softly, she did

“when it comes to thinking about my partner, its you

It has always been you

It will always be you”

he looked in her eyes holding her gaze

“life means you, partner means you, sharing my life means you, everything I am, everything I do..begins and ends with you”

He paused making sure he heard every word

He leaned his forehead against hers, his eyes closing his hands holding her face while hers coming to hold his

Their eyes closed, breaths mingling

“this isn’t even a thought I entertain, noor

Because it was never a choice

I just know one thing, if I am sharing this life with someone its either you…or no one”

“the man who looks for someone else thinking you are not enough…

Is not aviraj singh”

“aviraj singh, wholly, completely with every part of him

Belongs to kaashvi singh”

His voice softened

“I don’t look at you and think what’s missing”

“I look at you and think, this is everything”

“AVI SIRF APNI NOOR KA HAI”

Her eyes glistened slightly, lashes trembling as she blinked, once slow

She stayed quiet for a moment, her hands lifted to his face, thumb resting near his jaw like she needed the contact to stay steady

“aap ye sab bolte ho” she whispered voice soft

“aur mera dimag chalna band ho jaata hai”

“I don’t know if I can say it in big promises like you do” she admitted honestly

Her fingers tightened slightly against hic cheeks

“but when I imagine life” she continued

“when I imagine coming home tired, angry, scared, confused..”

Her voice wavered for a second

“its always your shoulder I end up leaning on”

“when something good happens” she said

“you are the first thought

When something hurts you are the place my mind runs to without asking permission”

A small breath escaped her, half laugh half emotion

“I know my mind thinks a lot” she said quietly

Her hand slid from his face to rest over his chest, right above his heartbeat

“this” she murmured

“feels right to me, safe”

She swallowed

“I may not know everything” she said honestly

“I may be scared, overthink, doubt..”

“but where I stand, who I choose to stand with, that has never been unclear”

She leaned in nose brushing his voice barely above a breath

“if I am sharing my days, my fears, my mess, my becoming

..its with you”

“I don’t need a hundred reasons

One is enough kyuki

NOOR BHI SIRF APNE AVI KI HAI”

For a moment he didn’t react at all

The way her words had landed too deep, too suddenly, something had gone still inside him

His breath hitched for once

For a man who lived by control, by strategy by measured speeches

This had undone him quietly

His thumb brushed her under eye,

“tumne jo bhi kaha” he said voice low, slower than usual

He swallowed

“that’s heavier than any promise”

He pulled her closer, her cheek fitting back against his chest his chin resting in her hair

“I don’t need big words from you” he murmured

“I don’t need declarations”

He exhaled against her hair

“because this is choice” he said quietly

His voice softened further, he tilted his head lips brushing her temple

“you didn’t say you will never doubt or never fear”

“you said you will come to me anyway…and for me that’s enough”

For him, that was everything

His arms wrapped around her fully now, holding her like something irreplaceable, something precious

“if you ever feel lost, just come

If you overthink, I am here

If you are angry, confused, not okay, just come”

His lips curved faintly against her hair, then softly almost smiling into her

“I don’t need you perfect

I just need you here”

For a moment they stayed silent

He felt her still in his arms, like she was listening with everything now, he shifted slightly so she was more comfortable. One arm firm around her waist the other coming up to cradle the back of her head,

His fingers slid into her hair, slow, repetitive like calming a child

“these things” he said gently

“they take time”

“a lot of time”

He tilted his head meeting her gaze fully

“and I don’t care how long it takes, months, years, however long you need”

She looked at him

“I just, don’t want you to think you chose, wr—”

He stopped her, his hand slid down her back slow, and grounding

He smiled faintly the kind meant only for her

“jaan” he murmured

“do you think I waited all this time just to rush you now?”

She shook her head a tiny movement

“that’s my point, I will wait no matter how long, we will learn everything slowly,

I will stop the second you feel overwhelmed”

“if you say ‘no’ then it’s a ‘no’

If you say ‘I am scared’ then we pause

If you say nothing at all…” he exhaled lightly

“then I hold you like this and we breathe together”

He pulled her closer letting her curl into him fully

“I don’t know what I did to have you in this life” she murmured against his chest, she sniffed once, then again, as if suddenly aware of the quiet heaviness between them

Her fingers brushed under her own eyes,

He felt the movement before he saw it, the way her finger brushed beneath her eyes, quick, almost apologetic like she didn’t want the emotion to spill

His chest tightened

Before she could pull away or hide better his hand came up gently catching her wrist

“noor” he murmured soft but steady

He shifted just enough to look at her face, his thumb brushed her cheek slowly

“don’t say like that” he said quietly

She frowned a little confused

“like what?”

“like you are the lucky one” he replied voice low, sincere in a way that left no doubt

“I am the lucky one here”

Her breath hitched slightly

“you didn’t fall into my arms by accident” he continued

“you didn’t get handed to me because I did something right”

He looked at her eyes soft yet holding the assurance, the care she needed

“you are the blessing” he said simply

“not something I earned.. something I was trusted with”

Her lashes fluttered

“you think its easy to find someone who is this honest?”

“someone who admits ‘I am scared’ instead of pretending?”

“someone who trusts enough to be unsure out loud?”

“that’s rare” he said

“and you are precious”

“you have already given me more than I ever asked for…just by being here”

She finally rested against him properly wrapping her arms around him

“kya hai avi” she said tilting her head to look at him voice slipping back into that familiar softness, teasing

“hum kyu aaj ke din itna senti ho rahe hai”

He raised a brow slightly already amused watching her shift moods like only she could

She continued eyes narrowing in mock accusation

“aapke paida hone wale din saare devi devtao ne khud socha kya—

Saari ganga jamuna iski patni ki aakhon se bahani hai”

She gestured in mock offence, her eyes dramatic

For a second, he just stared at her

Then he chuckled

An actual warm chuckle, that shook his head

“accha?” he said amusement lacing his voice as he looked down at her

“toh meri galti hai abb?”

He lifted a hand thumb gently brushing the corner of her eye

“mere paida hone se” he added dryly

“tum senti ho rahi ho”

She scoffed

“haa bass phir se mujhe blame kardo waah avii jii waah”

He caught her hand easily, fingers threading through hers his eyes softening again

“aise hi raha karo” he said looking down at her

She looked up at him confused

“kyu?”

He looked at her the way he did when he meant something deeper

“kyuki” he said eyes steady on hers

“pyari lagti ho”

The words weren’t dramatic or exaggerated just simply true for him

Colour crept up her cheeks, she looked away instantly

“accha” she said trying hard to sound not affected

Then her eyes slid back to him narrowing suspiciously now

She leaned in a fraction lowering her voice
“toh matlab waise mai aapko monjulika lagti hu?”

For a heartbeat he just looked at her

That calm smile settling on his lips like he was waiting for this

“kitna ladti ho” he murmured

Before she could react, he pulled her in quick and effortless one arm wrapping around her waist the other coming up to hold her face, his fingers pressed into her cheeks lightly

“avii--!!” she protested, words muffled in a laugh as he gently bit her cheek

Not hard just enough to make her gasp

“meri kaleshi pahadan” he said fondly pressing a quick kiss to the same cheek

She froze for half a second her face heating up

“Manipulator kahi ke” she muttered trying to look offended but failing terribly as her lips curved on their own

He leaned back just enough to really look at her

That soft knowing smile still on his lips

“manipulator? Kaise madam zara bataiye” he said eyebrow lifting

She scoffed then looked up at him her fingers still curled into his shirt his thumb brushed her cheek once more,

“pehle gussa karo, phir manao, phir romance karo matlab dikhadi na neta wali harkat” she said eyes narrowing  

He didn’t even try to hide his amusement

A slow smile spread across his lips

He hummed thoughtfully as if considering her words seriously

She shifted slightly in his arms, then pulled back just enough to look at him

“accha aviii” she began casually then paused like thinking something

And he knew what was coming

“….abb scooty mei chale?” she said blinking up at him slowly

The small pout followed

He froze just for a second

He looked at her properly now, the way she was curled into him, eyes wide and hopeful, mouth slightly pushed out,

“noor..” he started already inhaling to explain, tone slipping to the firm one,

But she didn’t let him finish

She tilted her head lower lip just pushed out a little

“please na?” she said slowly

That pout and those eyes

“that damn pout” he thought

He stopped mid-sentence, jaw tightening not in anger but defeat

‘why’ he thought exhaling through his nose

‘why cant I say anything to this woman when she looks at me like that”

She leaned closer voice soft pleading without words just eyes and expression

“chahe aap security ko bol dena” she added quickly

“humare sath rahe …bas thoda dur”

He looked away for half a second ran a ran a hand over his face then looked back at her

“bhaut tez ho tum” he muttered shaking his head slightly

Her pout instantly turned into a smug smile

“neta ki biwi hu na” she said chin lifting

A quiet chuckle escaped him as he looked at her,

This woman who could dismantle his authority with one look

He sighed long and resigned eyes softening

“jaisa meri noor chahe” he said finally voice carrying fond surrender more than permission

Her face lit up instantly

“aaaa!!” she squealed softly and launched herself at him arms wrapping around his neck, cheek pressing into his should

“mere pyaree aviii thankyouuu” she said brightly

He caught her automatically laughing now, one hand steadying her back

“meri drama company” he said shaking his head amusement laced with affection

She pulled back just enough to look at him pressing a soft peck on his cheek

The peck landed before he could even register it

For a second he froze

His hand which had been mid movement stilled against her back

His breath caught barely noticeable but there

The outside noise faded into background as he looked at her, this woman who kisses him so casually, so fearlessly yet comes to his arms like a child when sad

Then reality snapped back in

He cleared his throat once, softly but firmly

He stood up, and then helped her up first

His hands went instinctively to hers, one steadying her elbow, the other smoothening the pleats of her saree where they had crumbled slightly from sitting

He fixed it slowly, carefully

She stood still letting him watching his face as he concentrated

Noticing a few strands out of place he lifted his hand and gently tucked her hair behind

“now listen to me carefully, no mischief” he said voice shifting

Not harsh but firm

She blinked up at him, already sensing it lips still curved in that satisfied smile as he fixed her hair

“scooty means no carelessness now”

She opened her mouth to say something

He looked at her eye’s stern lifting his finger instantly

“let me finish”

She shut it, obedient like a child, watching him

“helmet pehna hai” he said calmly but firmly

“speed normal, koi zig zag shaitaano wali harkat nahi, koi heroics nahi”

His hand moved to her wrist adjusting her bangles absent mindedly as he spoke

“security peeche rahegi distance maintain karegi

Ek bhi second mujhe laga its not going good, ride over”

She nodded slowly eyes following his face half amused, half softened by how serious he was

“and” he added lowering his voice meeting her gaze fully now

“if you feel tired, or uncomfortable or any problem tum ussi time bologi, no ‘theek hu’ drama”

She smiled tilting her head

“avi I know how to dri—”

He leaned just enough to stop her breath

“pata hai mujhe kitna aata hai tumhe yaad hai mujhe kaise mile thae hum”

She looked at him offended

“avi seriously uss din meri galti nahi thi I swear –” she started to say but he held her pulling her closer

“I just want you to be safe” he said voice softening

She nodded smiling small and fondly at him

“yes sir” she said sweetly

He exhaled through his nose, defeated again

As he turned to walk with her, one thing was clear he might have surrendered to her demands but never surrendering to his instinct to protect her

As they walked, she reached for her purse first

Almost automatically, his hand moved faster

“its fine I will carry—” she protested lightly fingers brushing the strap

He didn’t look at her just took it from her hands carrying it in his own

“you walk” he said simply

She looked up at him lips curving into that quiet satisfied smile

Her walked ahead, opened the door for her as she walked out ahead

She stepped out first, holding her phone

The moment she did, everyone noticed

Everyone wasn’t just surprised but there was a collective disbelief

Aviraj singh walked out of his cabin, in casuals, relaxed with a small smile on his face

And a woman walking ahead of him like she owned the place

She moved without hurry phone already in her hand, scrolling completely unbothered by the stared her eyes glued to her phone

He followed just behind her matching her pace, one hand holding her hand loosely the other carrying her purse

Everyone started talking lowly employees paused mid conversation

Because this wasn’t the man they knew

“sir is, smiling”

“and he is holding her bag”

This was the same aviraj singh who walked with silence, and seriousness, always in crisp formals, always distant and untouchable

The same man whose presence made everyone straighten their back instinctively

And today?

He was in casuals, holding a woman’s purse, hair slightly undone

“I have never looked at him like this” one whispered

“look at his face. He is actually relaxed”

Some people smiled instinctively, warmth spreading at the sight

Some just stared, mouth slightly open

A few girls exchanged looks, quick sharp unmistakably envy flickering behind polite expressions

But he? He didn’t notice any of it or maybe he did but didn’t care

Kaashvi suddenly slowed, tugging his hand lightly

“avi” she said casually tilting the phone toward him

“see this”

He leaned down instinctively shoulder brushing hers, bending just enough to see the screen properly

His hand tightened around her subconsciously. Grounding her as his eyes followed whatever she showed him

A small smile broke across his face

Not the one public one, not the controlled one

The real one

“that’s ridiculous” he murmured amusement clear in his voice

One the screen some ridiculous reel of a fat man attempting a dramatic move and absolutely falling on something appeared

For half a second aviraj stared

Then he leaned down more,

“ye kya kar raha hai.” He muttered

She burst out laughing

“jaake puchlo usse”

He tried to stay composed but a smile broke through first, then a quiet huff of laughter

He shook his head amused

“kya kya dekhti rehti ho” he said dryly

She laughed harder, leaning into his side, her shoulder bumping near his chest

His arm came around her without thought holding her steady

Around them- it was shock

The man who intimated rooms was bent over a phone, smiling

The boss who didn’t tolerate distractions smiling at a reel

The same man holding, his wife’s purse and hand like nothing else mattered

The walked still close still laughing

She replayed the reel once more

He glanced down again just to see her reaction this time, his eyes softening

Around them people were stunned

As they moved her leading, her following half a step behind

This wasn’t a public figure or politician

This was just a man hopelessly, openly soft for one person and everyone could see it

They kept walking

Kaashvi had slipped fully into her excited rhythm now, as she showed him different things on her phone, explaining with animated gestures, eyes bright, shoulders relaxed

“dekho ye—” she pointed turning the screen toward him again

“—ye kitna funny hai na”

Aviraj listened, not the way he listened in meetings, measure and guraded

This was different

He nodded along, lips curved into a soft smile, occasionally interrupting her just to tease

“ye tumhare jaisi harkat hai” he said pointing out at a girl running funnily which only made her scoff elbowing him lightly in the rubs without even looking up

“puri feed apne jaisi bana rakhi hai” he murmured

She finally loke dup at him eyes narrowing in mock warning

“pitna chah rahe ho kya office mei—”

Before she could finish a voice cut in

“sir” arjun’s voice came respectful and precise

The shift in aviraj was immediate, nor harsh or cold just precise

Aviraj straightened slightly, his grip on her hand loosening not leaving,

His smile didn’t vanish just faded, his gaze sharpened

He turned his head

Arjun stood there, tablet in hand posture straight

“sir the legal team just called, there’s a clarification needed on the merger file with that other company they are waiting for your approval before proceeding”

Aviraj stopped

“which clause?” he asked voice calm but firm

Arjun flipped the tablet around

“clause 4b the indemnity section”

Aviraj scanned it once, eyes moving fast

“no, tell them to revise it, I want the liability capped exactly as discussed yesterday, no flexibility there”

“yes sir”

“and have them resend it within the hour” he added, tone leaving no space for negotiation

“okay”

Kaashvi stood quietly beside him though it all, watching and listening though understanding nothing she watched the change, the same man who had leaned into her a second ago, now all serious and in authority

“inki baatein suunke toh mujhe anpadh feel hora” she thought

As arjun stepped back, she smiled at him warmly

“bye arjun” she said easily

“take care”

Arjun blinked for half a second, surprised

But then smiled, polite and genuine

“you too, mam”

They started walking again

Aviraj’s hand slid back into hers fully this time, grip secure

His attention shifted to her, the edge in his expression softening

After a few steps he spoke voice casual but not careless

“you talked to arjun?”

She glanced up at him surprised by the question then shrugged lightly

“haa” she said simply

“jub aayi thi tubb he showed me your cabin”

Aviraj nodded once

Nothing about him said jealousy, anger or possessiveness or anger

Yer something subtly tightened

Something quieter

“he is a good guy” she added easily

“seedha sa, helpful”

Aviraj hummed in response, eyes looking forward now

“hmm”

Then almost absent mindedly he said

“you are probably the first woman in the office he has talked to”

His tone wasn’t sharp or accusing just distant, observational

Kaashvi slowed half a step, studying his profile the calm face, the unreadable composure

Then her lips curved, brows raised

Ste stepped closer, slipping both arm around his waist as they walked, cheek brushing near his chest deliberately

“accha?” she said lightly eyebrows lifting

“kya…mere patidev jealous ho rahe hai” she tilted her head to look up at him mischief dancing in her eyes

He stopped for a moment

His one arm came around her back, pulling her fully in this time, her body fitting against his without resistance

He looked down at her

Expression unreadable, voice low

“if I ever feel jealous of another man” he said quietly

“trust me, jaan..

His thumb brushed once slowly, against her waist

“- you wont see it”

Her smile faltered just a little

“and” he continued gaze holding hers steady now

“you definitely wont see what I will do to him”

There wasn’t a threat in his tone just quiet possessiveness and certainty

Her eyes widened a little

“itna serious avi” she said half laugh half question

He softened instantly the way he always did with her

His forehead dipped to touch hers briefly voice gentler now

“relax” he murmured

“I am not jealous, abhi toh nahi”

“I am just aware”

She studied him for a second, then smiled shaking her head

“pagal ho aap” she said softly

He smirked faintly

“sirf tumhare liye”

They stepped out of the building together

The glass door slid open, and the sound of office faded behind them replaced by open air, the faint noise of traffic, and the late day warmth settling over the driveway

Kaashvi’s eyes lit up

She didn’t just step out she burst into the moment

She swung his hand with both of her like a child waiting all day to be free of everything

“yeyeyeyeye” she repeated half singing, half laughing feet almost bouncing as she walked a head tugging him along

The late afternoon air caught in her hair, sunlight brushed her face, warm and soft

“avii humara first day out” she said excitedly

Aviraj slowed, looking at her

She was glowing, nor performing just alive, living

Light in her step, laughter easy, fingers wrapped around his

His grip tightened instinctively, so she didn’t trip

“aaram se noor” he said voice low almost fondly scolding

She looked back over her shoulder eyes sparkling

“kyuuuu” she dragged the word playfully

“aaj ka toh din hai jaaneman aaj no aaram se”

She gave his hand another exaggerated swing nearly spinning herself around

He stopped walking suddenly

She stumbled back half a step then turned to face him confused

He was just standing there watching her

Not the way people watched her, but the way

A man watched something precious he hadn’t realized had been missing

There was a softness on his face

“kya hua?” she asked

“aise kya dekh rahe ho”

He stepped closer shortening the distance his hand slid from her grip to her wrist, thumb resting over her pulse

“aise hi” he said simply

“bhaut pyaari lag rahi ho”

She blinked then smiled slower, softer

“bas itna hi?”

“hmm” he hummed lost In her

As they walked

“I will be back in a minute” he said releasing her hand after giving it a light squeeze, an unconscious reassurance

She nodded

“okay”

She walked ahead, saree gathered in one hand as she climbed onto the scooty

She adjusted herself, placed her feet properly

Meanwhile aviraj turned the other way

The softness left his posture the second he approached security

Two guards straightened immediately when they saw him

“sir”

Aviraj stopped infront of them, shoulders straight, expression composed

“we are not using car today” he said plainly 

One of them blinked in surprise but nodded instantly
“yes sir”

“I want one vehicle behind us” aviraj continues voice even

“maintain the distance, no unnecessary visibility”

“yes sir”

“route stays main road” he added

“no shortcuts, no deviation unless I say so if something seems wrong directly contact me”

“understood sir”

He pauses for half a second, then his gaze sharpened

“and be more careful today, eyes open” he said quietly

“she is with me”

That was all

They didn’t ask further,

“yes sir” they replied

Aviraj turned back

Across the driveway kaashvi sat on scooty, helmet resting on the handle, swinging one foot lightly

She waited calmly, humming something under her breath tossing the keys in her hands absent mindedly, she tossed them lightly, caught them and then did it again  

Then she saw him, their eyes met

Her face instantly softened into a smile, the kind that wasn’t trying to impress just happy that he was coming to her

Aviraj slowed as he reached her seeing her sitting

He stopped right in front of her beside the vehicle, hands in his pockets, eyes scanning her once

“I think..” he started clearing his throat lightly

“I should drive”

She blinked looking up at him

Then her expression flattened into exaggerated boredom rolling her eyes
“aapka birthday hai” she said slowly dragging the words

“aur mai aapko driver banaungi?”

She clicked her tongue shaking her head

“naa naa jaaneman”

She straightened up chest puffing slightly as is announcing something very important

“aaj mai aapko king treatment dungi” she declared, full in her drama

“mere praan naath baith jaiye apni tashreef leke”

She patted the seat behind her with royal authority, already slipping helmet onto her head

Aviraj just stared at her. Clearly calculating ten different risks

“noor—” he began again still hesitant

She looked at him from under the helmet, her eyes suddenly sharp

“baithiye” she said firmly

He sighed

A long, defeated sigh

He gave up arguing out loud

Instead he moved

Without another words, aviraj stepped closer to scooty and then to her surprise, he

Knelt down infront of her

Right there, in the open driveway, security at a distance, people passing by he was on his knees infront of her

For a moment she froze

His hands went to the edge of her saree, careful, practised, respectful

He adjusted the pleats near her knees and feet so the fabric wouldn’t catch in wheel or get stuck, his fingered precise like handling something fragile

“saree mei chala logi?” he asked quietly, eyes still on what he was doing

The question wasn’t doubting her skill, but just pure concern

For a second she just stared at him, helmet half on, heart skipping at the sight of him kneeling like this, unbothered by who might see

“avi..” she said slightly taken aback

“haan” she added quickly

“chala lungi aap itna tension kyu le rahe ho”

He paused then looked up at her

The look, like her safety was a biggest responsibility

“kyuki it’s you” he said simply standing up now

He reached for her helmet, adjusting the strap under her chin, fingers brushing her jaw as he tightened it just right

“this shouldn’t move” he instructed

Then his hands move checking the mirrors. Tapping the indicator lightly, glancing at the tyres

“speed control mei” he said tone slipping into that strict one

“no bina wajah fudakna, no sudden cuts”

She tilted her head watching him with amused eyes

“avi yaar aap toh aise kar rahe ho jaise traffic police ki training hai itna toh maine apne driving license test ke liye nahi socha tha” she said

He straightened up slowly, hands resting up on his hips for a second as he took her in, helmet on, saree settled, eyes shining with mischief

He cleared his throat trying very hard to sound serious again

“waise” he said casually glancing her from head to toe

“tumhe aane diya unhone?”

She blinked

“kisne?”

“driving license wale” he replied smoothly

“height nahi dekhi?”

For a moment there was silence, she stared at him

Her eyes narrowed, lips pressing together as she leaned a little closer on her scooty

“aapka muh bhaut chalne laga hai” she said slowly

Her raised an eyebrow utterly unbothered

“sach puch raha hu” he added failing miserably to keep seriousness the corner of his mouth twitching

“cycle ke pedal tak pairr phaunchte hai madam aapke?”

That was it

“mai bata rahi hu avi” she said lifting a finger in warning

“zyada bole na… pitt jaoge”

She even nodded once, like serious about her threat

He just shrugged

A full relaxed one

“risk toh lena padta hai, neta hu na” he said lightly

She scoffed adjusting the handle with extra force

“bhaut bol rahe hai” she muttered

“kuch toh seekhe chalo mujhse”

He smiled then, eyes warm as they traced her face

“tumhe hi toh dekhna hai abb” he said quietly

She looked at him from the corner of her eye, lips twitching despite herself

“bass bass zyada dialogue baazi nahi”

He stepped back once scanned her from head to toe, saree secure, helmet tight, everything steady

The softly now, he caressed her cheek

“dhyaan se hmm?”

She smiled inside the helmet

“ho gaya?”

He hesitated for half a second then nodded

“ho gaya”

He straightened taking one last look, the look that said everything he hadn’t said out loud

‘I trust you but I will still worry because you’re you’

He moved to sit behind her one hand reaching for the grabrail.

“Rukiye”

Her voice stopped him mid motion he looked back at her

She was staring straight at him, her hand carrying the second helmet, eyes sharp on him

“hemet pehniye” she said flatly

“mujhe itna sunna rahe or khud??”

He frowned a little

“noor drive tum kar rahi ho..”

“toh?” she cut in immediately 

She leaned back slightly holding the helmet infront of him

“extra helmet sajaane ke liye nahi Rakha hai maine”

She said stern enough to match his own tone

He exhaled through his nose, trying to convince

“noor mere baal—”

She didn’t even let him finish

Her eyes narrowed, dangerous now

“toh mere kya ghaas lagi hai sar pe? Maine bhi pehna hai na” she said

“abhi ganja kar dungi phir karte rehna ‘noor mere baal’ “

He froze, looked at her,

The seriousness, the authority, the exact same expression he used on people when there was no room for argument

He sighed

A full defeated ‘how can I win with you’ sigh

She lifted the helmet

“jhukiye”

He obeyed

The man who made rooms stand when he entered leaned down without a word

Her hands came up, steady and careful, sliding the helmet over his head

Her focus sharpened instantly fingers adjusting the padding, tugging it down properly

She tightened the strap under his chin, checking it twice

Her voice softened without losing the firmness

“I also want you to be safe avi”

The words landed quietly, firm and certain

He looked at her, really looked

Her eyes intent, sincere, no drama no teasing just care and responsibility

Something in him went still

For a moment he forgot the road, the office, the world

“done” she said glancing up at him

She found him staring at her, her voice soft and shy now suddenly aware of their closeness

“kya?” she asked blinking

He shook his head faintly

“kuch nahi” he said quietly

“bass tum”

She looked down, flustered now,

“baitho” she said

He looked at her, a faint smile forming beneath the helmet

He straightened finally settling behind her, hand resting on her side carefully, not gripping just present

Aviraj settled on the seat behind her, movements careful

Not because he didn’t trust her, but every instinct in him screaming control. Safety

He adjusted his footing, hands hovering lightly at her sides not gripping yet

She twisted the key, the scooty humming to life

She glanced back at him eyes bright excitement bubbling inside her

“ready ho jaaneman?” she asked grin wide voice teasing

He looked at the back of her helmet for a second, then at the road ahead

“jaise tumne koi choice chordi hai” he said under his breath barely audible

She tilted her head slightly

“kuch bola avi?” she said

He cleared his throat, instantly neutral

“nahi, chale?”

She didn’t question further, just smiled, twisted the throttle with enthusiasm and the scooty rolled forward

“jai shree krishna” she said under her breath

The scooty moved forward smoothly, tyres humming against the road as she eases into the traffic

‘noor ke kanhaji’ he thought quietly

‘bass issey theek rakhna’

He leaned in just enough for his voice to reach her ear

“seedhe” he said calmly

“left se auto aa raha hai”

She nodded immediately

“I know I know” she replied lightly

“relax netajii, mai desh ki ek responsible naagrik hu”

He snorted before he could stop himself

“responsible” he said dryly

She gasped dramatically even while riding

“excuse me” she shot back

“mai bhaut pro driver hu”

He watched her for a second the way she leaned slightly into turned alert but carefree talking like this was the easiest thing in the world

“speed zyada nahi” he reminded softer now

“avi” she said mock serious

“trust?”

The word landed heavier than she intended

He went still for half a second

“trust?” he repeated quietly

She just nodded, a small calm smile tugging at her lips

“yes” she said gently now teasing gone softer

“baby, you have to trust me”

The scooty moved smoothly her control steady, hands sure

“aise nahi chalega na” she continued tone light but reassuring knowing she had to calm him make him relax or he will just think his mind racing

“I know you are worried mai samaj rahi hu but this way aap khud socho na kya fayda aane ka? phir toh car mei chal lete… So relax and trust me just feel, aaj ka din jeene ka hai tension toh roz lete ho na”

He watched her shoulders relaxed, confident, like she was talking directly to the part of him that was too unsure and always on alert mode

“its you wife avi, so chill” she said

“just breath”

She exaggerated slow inhale for him then exhaled slow and deliberate

“deep breath” she added fondly

“and calm down my darling”

Something in his chest shifted

The way she said everything so calmly and certain

He realized his body slightly tensed without him noticing, slowly he let his shoulders drop,

“hmm” he murmured almost to himself

He leaned back just a fraction, trusting her balance, trusting her

The city moved around them, noise chaos, unpredictability but he calmed down with her words

“I trust you” he said quietly

She smiled sensing the change

“and I have got us both” she said lightly

The scooty slid onto the main road smoothly, her hands steady on the handle, posture relaxed but alert,

Traffic was light, the late afternoon sun warm, the kind that painted everything a little softer

Aviraj sat behind her careful not to crowd her,

For a few minutes they rode like that, quiet, easy

Kaashv’s eyes flickered to the rear-view mirror

With deliberate slowness her hand moved, and she adjusted it

Not for the road but to see him

Aviraj noticed immediately, he caught his reflection, head slightly tilted, eyes already on her

Their gaze met through the mirror,

Heat crept up his ears as he found her looking at him

“noor” he said trying to calm failing just a little

“road par dhyan do”

She didn’t look away

Instead her lips curved into that smug look
“hmm” she hummed eyes still on the mirror

“par piche ka view zyada accha hai”

He inhaled sharply, heat and crimson blooming in his neck

Without thinking his fingers lifted gentle but firm, touching her cheek from the side and guiding her face forward

“bhaut accha” he said voice low, controlled

“par abhi road par dhyaan do”

She smiled, and then looked forward

She saw it, the faint blush, the tight jaw

The way his fingers lingered half a second too long before pulling away

She focused ahead riding straight innocently

A few seconds pass

Then again…

Her eyes flickered to the mirror. This time not to adjust

She just looked at it

There he was, watching her, completely caught

Suddenly she winked at him, slowly once

A silent tease

Aviraj stiffened

“noor” he said voice low

She immediately looked back to the road, all serious now shoulders shaking faintly with supressed laughter

He leaned back exhaling through his nose, cheeks definitely warm

“this woman” he muttered under his breath

“is going to be the end of me”

And kaashvi, she just smiled knowing what she did to him

The ride continued, smooth again, the road stretching ahead in lazy curve

Wind brushed past them, carrying the faint noise of traffic and the soft hum of scooty

For a few seconds kaashvi rose properly, too properly, too innocently

That alone should have warned him

Her eyes flickered sideways not to the mirror but trying to look at him

A small glint of mischief sparked in her eyes

Before he could, think anything

She suddenly hits the brakes

Not harsh, just suddenly

Aviraj lurched forward instantly his body colliding with hers

His arms came around her automatically, grip tightening at her waist to steady both of them

The space between them vanished in a heartbeat, her back fully against his chest, his breath brushing the side of her helmet

“noor!!” he said immediately concern sharp

“theek ho?”

 She looked at him over her shoulder, eyes slightly wide with innocence

“breaker tha avi aap theek ho na?” she said sweetly

He didn’t answer right away

He studied her face instant

The barely hidden smile at the corner of her lips

The way her shoulders were little too relaxed

Suspicion settled in him but he nodded moving a little back, creating a distance between them his hand leaving her waist

She pouted feeling him shift away the warmth of his hands gone

“hadd hai inhe toh samaj hi nahi aara mera bhondu pati” she thought

After a few seconds

She did it again

Another sudden brake

This time he was ready, still his body came forward, chest flush against her back, arms wrapping around her more firmly now

His arms stayed at her waist, fingers curling this time

“noor” he said slowly, voice low now

“sab pata hai kya ho raha hai”

She grinned

“accha?” she asked tilting her head just enough to see her smile

“aap itne dimagaadar ho toh ladki ka ishaara samaj nahi aara mere bholuram”

He looked at her, trying not to smiled at her antics

She continued utterly fearless

“yaha mai aapko hints de rahi hu” she said mock serious

“aur aap dur jaa rahe ho, mere sidhe shareef swami”

“haanth rakho abb” she added

“intezaar kya kar rahe ho kamar badhne ka?”

Aviraj let out a breath that was half laugh, half surrender

He leaned in properly now, closing all the distance between them, chin on her shoulder, helmet touching hers

His arms tightened around her, not rough but enclosing trapping him gently between his arms

“you are impossible” he murmured near her ear

“pagal ladki”

His head tilted slightly resting against the side of her helmet voice softer now

She chuckled

“toh kya?? pati ho aap mere aise baithe ho jaise kidnap kar rahi hu zara acche se baitho aise dar rahe ho jaise aapko bhaga rahi hu or kahi papa mummy hume pakad naa le”

He shook his head, lips curving despite himself, holding her properly

“accha?” he murmured near her ear   

He smiled slow, leaning just enough that his breath brushed her ear and neck

“tum batao” he said quietly voice dropping

“kaise pakdu?”

Before she could answer, his hand shifted, unhurried, resting at her waist

Not gripping, just there warm and certain

His fingers brushed the bare skin where her saree dipped moving on the curve of her waist, slow enough to be felt, light enough to make her breath catch

“aise?” he asked

Her eyes widened, heartbeat skipping

“a..avi” she whispered voice betraying her before her courage could catch up

“kya kar rahe ho?”

He hummed softly almost amused lips close to her ear

“kuch bhi toh nahi” he replied innocently

And then his fingers moved again, a slow subtle caress barely there but enough to make her nervous

She swallowed throat dry heat creeping up her neck

Her grip on handles tightened

“avi” she whispered breath uneven now

“main road par shaitaani matt karo abhi humare bacche bhi nahi hue hai”

He chuckled low, controlled arms tightening around her just a little more, anchoring her

“yahi toh practise hai na” he murmured casually,

“isse aage badhenge tubb hi toh aayenge”

For half a second, she froze

Her eyes wide, her brain short circuiting

“..huh?” she whispered voice actually trembling now as she turned her head just enough to look at him from the corner of her eye
“a-avi?”

He saw it instantly

The shock, her shoulders tensed, the way her breath hitched

Before her nervousness or panic could take in, he shook his head amused, fond regretting a little pushing her like that

“arey-“ she said quickly laughing under his breath

“just kidding”

Before her mind could spiral he leaned in pressed a slow soft kiss to her shoulder, grounding, gentle, no teasing now

Her cheeks burned, but she smiled despite herself

“ye aadmi muh kholte hai or meri bolti band ho jaati hai” she thought

“focus mrs. singh” he murmured again

“aap karne do toh na” she said

She steadied the scooty eyes back on the road pretending very hard that her heart wasn’t racing

He sat, chin resting lightly near her shoulder, arms around her but firm, calm now

as they moved the road narrowed suddenly

traffic thickened, horns blaring, engines growling too close for comfort

“noor abb dhyaan” aviraj said being serious now and kaashvi nodded concentrated

Kaashvi moved steady, until a bike suddenly cut past them from the left, too close

Close enough that the air brushed her arm, close enough that the scooty slightly wobbled for half a second

Her breath hitched

She glanced at the rear-view mirror then to her side eyes wide, pulse spiking

“what the—” she started in irritation flashing instantly

She steadies the scooty kept her lane

Before irritation could turn into panic, aviraj’s voice came calm, and grounded near her ear

“ignore” he said evenly hands firm at her side anchoring her

“aise log roz milte hai,” he said calmly but already alert

She nodded jaw tightening eyes back ahead

He slowly rubbed her arm as if sub consciously calming her

The biker sped ahead

For exactly ten seconds

Then it happened again

This time from the right, sharper and rougher, his handle almost brushed her pallu, the audacity clearly deliberate, now

Her grip tightened, her irritation flaring, her jaw tightening anger slowly rising

Aviraj felt it instantly

“noor, calm down” he said firmer

“leave it, tum bass seedha rakho”

She inhaled through her nose, exhaled and nodded again and just hummed

“hmm”

Aviraj could feel the change in her voice, the way her hands gripped as if controlling her anger

Five seconds later it happened again

The bike swerved hard cutting infront of them braking suddenly like a challenge

This time he cut in so close that it almost graze aviraj’s arm lightly and

That was it

Not the close call, or the arrogance not even deliberate provocation

It was the fact that the bike cut so close this time that it almost brushed aviraj’s arm

Kaashvi felt it before she even processed it, the faint shift of air, the movement, the danger aimed at him

Something in her snapped clean

Her spine went rigid, her jaw clenched so hard,

The irritation she had been swallowing controlling breathing turned sharp, protective, furious

She didn’t hesitate

She twisted the throttle just enough to pull alongside him voice slicing through the traffic, no panic, no fear

“oye saale suar ki aulaad dikhta nahi hai kya, mera pati hai woh haaramkhor”

she shouted loud clear, burning in anger

The biker glanced sideways smirking

“tere baap ka boda

Tere bhai ka loda

Aankhein hai yaa mama ke tatte

Aise maarungi na saale aukaat yaad aa jayegi

Mera pati hai woh piche ek baar aur laga kabr khod dungi yahi

Kutte ka naach nachwa dungi yahi pe…”

Each word landed sharp, merciless, fluent like a weapon she knew exactly how to use

She overtook him cleanly, posture steady, anger channelled not reckless

Behind her aviraj stiffened, instinct screaming to stop her pull her back, but he couldn’t

He was silent

Completely, utterly

His brain short circuited

This wasn’t the composed, hospital intern

Or his soft teasing noor

Not even his kaleshi pahadan he joked about

This was something else entirely

He stared back at her helmet mouth slightly open soul temporarily leaving his body

“meri noor?” he thought

She was bold he knew that

Unapologetic absolutely

But this?

He didn’t know whether to stop her, applaud her, or quietly reassess every life choice that had led him to this exact moment

His brain practically buffers for a second this man who has faced political rivals, crowds..he was genuinely traumatized  

But something inside him was screaming

“my woman” seeing her courageous, fearless that too because he was about to get hurt

Her speed never spiked, her balance didn’t waver

She overtook cleanly, leaving him behind without other words

Only when there was distance, did she ease back, breath steady hands calm again

“fucking idiot” she muttered under her breath eyes fixed on the road

Aviraj swallowed never till now he has heard her curse or scream like this once

“noor..” he said low and controlled

She slowed just a little more, the sharpness in her eyes vanished, the fire now vanished

Her voice changes instantly

Without looking back, she slid her left hand off the handle slowly, carefully

Her fingers found his, warm and steady

She turned her wrist just enough to take his hand, fingers intertwining with his thumb brushing over his knuckles in a slow grounding stroke, like she was checking reassuring herself and

Right now, he didn’t have the power to even stop her

“avi..” she said her voice softer now

Not sharp, angry

Just her

“aap theek ho na?”

“usne touch kiya tha…aapko lagi toh nahi mai roku?”

Aviraj didn’t answer immediately

He couldn’t

Because his brain was still catching up

Seconds ago, this woman had been fearless, mouth lethal, spine steel, in her rage

Standing between him and danger like she had been born for it

And now

Now she was tracing his skin, eyes searching the road but her attention entirely his, voice dipped in concern and softness

He looked at her hand in his

The same hand that had held the handle steady while she verbally dismantled a man twice her size

The same hand now trembles just a little as it checked on him

His throat tightened, even though he wants to react, to say, to do something he just couldn’t

This..this change of her, it hit him hard

She was protective, of him

The moment the man was gone she folded herself back into softness

For him

He squeezed her fingers gently, grounding himself this time

“I am fine” he said quietly

“no scratch, kuch nahi hua”

She exhaled the breath she had been holding

“okay” she murmured her thumb slowing on his hand

“I just thought..”

“I know” he cut in softly

His gaze stayed on the side of her helmet, the curve of her neck the calm she wore so easily now

Inside his head everything was loud

‘this is my wife’

This woman who will burn the world and then ask if I am okay’

Her felt something deep settle in his chest

His arm tightened around her waist

‘my strong little tigress’

As they moved, the engine roared behind them again

Kaashvi caught in the mirror and this time it wasn’t just irritation but also a challenge

Her lips curved slowly

“oh?” she muttered “round two”

“aaja teri akad thikane lagau aaj”

Aviraj felt the shift the way her spine straightened, the way her wrist loosened on throttle

Before aviraj could even process it, she leaned forward slightly, and twisted the throttle again

The scooty surged

“noor—” his voice sharpened instantly arms tightening around her reflexively
“calm down”

“avi acche se pakdo ye laaton ke bhoot gaaliyo se nahi maante inke baap bhai ek karne padte hai” she said dangerously calm but not so innocently now

Kaashvi matched his pace without hesitation moving forward to not let him overtake now,

“what..noor ruko—” his voice sharpened

His hand tried to steady, to stop or not let her fall sideways

The biker surged too, clearly irritated but enjoying it now

Aviraj’s jaw clenched

“meri jaan calm down” he said urgently voice controlled but strained

“abhi shaadi ko ek saal bhi nahi hua hai”

His mind betrayed him as he spoke

‘abhi toh election bhi nahi lada hai, biwi ke saath ghooma bhi nahi dhang se aur ye khud hi—'

She cut him off, with a small laugh

“bass thoda sa avi tension matt lo” she said over her shoulder, eyes blazing with focus   

The scooty sped up

The biker tried to cut in

Kaashvi matched him, clean lines, controlled acceleration, no panic just intent  

Aviraj tightened his hold, not letting her body in any way to move much, chest pressed to her back

“hum dono jaha jaayenge ek sath jaayenge, par abhi iss bhadwe ko batati hu kiske pati ko touch karne wala tha ye”

The road opened slightly, they overtook him finally clean, smooth, and then

She lifted her hand up, showing up the middle fingers at back, clear unapologetic

“..noor”

Aviraj froze, this time his soul actually left his body

“bass now” he said again calmly firmer now

“jeet gaye ab slow down”

As if sensing it she eased just a little, enough to breath enough to listen

She wasn’t his innocent noor he thought

The words he heard, and her actions made him think was she even real

Before they could process anything

The biker came again, rage flaring, trying to push back in

That was it

All the calm aviraj carried, vanished

Something in aviraj shut off

The warmth, the softness, the man who was teasing earlier now gone

His expression darkened

The softness vanished, his spin straightened, his face went still,

The dangerous coldness returning

He didn’t say a word or raised his voice

He simply turned his head slightly, eyes locking with the biker

One look, measured, assessing, dangerous

At the same time, he lifted his hand just enough for a subtle gesture, flicking two fingers precisely

A gesture small meant nothing to anyone else except his security

Behind them one of the black cars shifted position smoothly

Another closed in from the side

The biker noticed, his smirk faltered

He noticed aviraj’s eyes, then the cars

His speed immediately dropped, confidence gone in a blink

The guards didn’t touch him, didn’t need to

They boxed him just enough to remind him who he was messing with

The biker slowed further, swallowed, and backed off completely

Ahead kaashvi completely unaware still riding high on adrenaline

She glanced back at aviraj grinning

“avi dekha” she said proudly

“haar gaya, pata nahi ye bikers kya samajte hai khud ko, theek hai you love your bike, and chalana pasand hai but ek tameez hoti hai na chutiyo jaise—”

She said but stopped mid-sentence

‘shit shit kya kiya maine ye kya samaj rahe honge mujhe kitni gaaliya de di hey bhagwaan gundi samaj rahe honge’ she thought

Her brain caught up with her mouth

Slowly very slowly she glanced back

Aviraj had heard everything

He knew the biker was gone, situation handled, he didn’t scold her, didn’t raise an eyebrow

She saw his expression calm, controlled, eyes soft but firm

Her smile faltered, she swallowed

After a beat calmly he said softly, calmly, gently

“Language baby”

That was it

Her ears burned a sheepishly smile crept onto her face embarrassment chasing adrenaline

“woh flow flow mei ho jaata hai na” she admitted quietly

His expression melted instantly

A small helpless smile curved his lips as he leaned closed, resting his chin near her shoulder again

“dhyaan se abb hmm?” he murmured

She nodded once easing the speed

Behind her aviraj let out a breath he didn’t realise he was holding

As the city rolled past them one thought echoed clearly in his mind

‘ye ladki jaan banke meri jaan le legi’

She kept her eyes on the road, posture relaxed again

But her voice soft, low now

“sorry” she said quietly

“zyada ho gaya tha na”

He looked at her minutes ago she was shouting like a woman in war, now she sounded like he was the only one she could talk this softly too

Aviraj let out a breath that was half disbelief half laughter

“yaad dilana” he said slowly,

“ki tumse bachke rahu mai abb”

She smiled

“aap?” she said gently warmth wrapping around every word

“aap toh meri jaan ho”

Then deliberately sweet

“aapko thodi na aise bolungi, praan priye”

That did it

Heat crept up his neck, ears warming despite himself a slow chuckle leaving him

“kya karu mai tumhara” he muttered

She slowed just a fraction and tilted her head toward him

“kiss” she said simply

The word was so casual so unguarded that it caught him off balance

Aviraj shook his head slowly a helpless smile tugging at his lips

“bhaut bigad rahi hai aap madam” he murmured fondly rather than scolding

She laughed softly

“woh kya hai na” she said sweetly

“sab mere pati ka kaamal hai”

She tilted her head just a little voice turning fond

“unko toh aap jaante hi honge

Thode se akdu hai” she added casually

Then softer,

“par mere jaaneman hai”

He smiled, slow, helpless, real

His arm tightened around her waist pulling her closer a little carefully not to disturb her balance,

His chest pressed against her back now

“my baby” he murmured voice warm

He leaned in and bit her cheek lightly, not rough just teasing before pressing a soft kiss there

She scrunched her nose instantly, fake annoyed laughing under her breath, leaning closer into him

“aap na mere gaal kisi din suja doge” she mumbled and turned just enough to kiss his cheek, quick, soft

His grip tightened for a second forehead resting against her helmet, smile lingering on his face

The road finally smoothed out

The chaos faded into moving traffic, wind rushing past,

Aviraj leaned slightly so she could hear him over the noise

“noor” he asked voice careful but curious now

“kaha jaa rahe hai hum?”

She didn’t answer immediately

Instead, she smiled

“patience jaaneman” she said lightly dragging the word out

He huffed a small laugh forehead dropping to her side

“tumhare patience ka definition mujhe stress naa dede”

He muttered

“aree aap relax karo bass aaj sochne ki duty meri hai” she said cheerfully

He shook his head

“jaisa meri noor chahe”

 
On the other hand

The house was unusually restless

Ayra moved from one corner of living room to another, advik doing the same from opposite direction hands placed on his hips, jaw set brows furrowed as they walked continuously

Ayra moved back and forth, chewing on her lower lip, phone in hand

Advik moved the same hand on his hips,

As they walked her coming from front, him from back they both collided

Ayra bumped straight into him

“areyy” both of them spoke

The both rubbed their head glaring at each other

Ayra pulled back first

“abe oye dekh ke chal na” she snapped even though she knew he had been pacing just like her

Advik scoffed running a hand through his hair

“abe tu idhar udhar kyu karri hai phir keede jaise”

She crossed her arms glaring at him about to say something when dhruv interrupted before they turn hall into wrestling ring  

“tum dono gadhe kyu ghodo jaise idhar udhar kar rahe ho” he said

Dhruv sat on the arm of the sofa, one leg crossed, expression unreadable but eyes sharp with amusement, calm as always, watching the two of them run laps around the living room

That’s when the main door opened

Kabir walked in, grin already in place his shirt crisp, sleeves rolled up, hair messy, energy filling the room before he even spoke

“aur bhaiii” he announced cheerfully

“kaha gaya safed baalon ka shikaar, budhape ka bimaar

Birthday buddha” he said

As he came then he really looked at the scene and at them

Ayra’s tense face, advik’s furrowed brows

Kabir frowned

“kya ho gaya?”

He said trying to joke lightening the mood

“itna buddha nahi hua hai tumhara bhai, shakal kyu utri hai dono ki”
ayra rolled her eyes, advik groaned

Without answering both of them grabbed Kabir by each arm and dragged him toward the sofa, gesturing for dhruv to also come

“baitho”

“shaanti se” ayra said

Kabir blinked half laughing half offended  

“batao ghar ke andar bhi kidnapping, ye tum sab ke genes” Kabir said shaking his head

Dhruv finally spoke

“chup kar, aur suunle inki”

All four of them settled ayra curling her legs beneath her restless energy vibrating through her, advik leaning forward with elbow on knees, fingers laced

Kabir sprawled casually stretching his arms, dhruv leaned back composed between them

Ayra exhaled

“Kabir bhaiya” she began carefully

“Bhabhi ne shaam ke liye kuch plan kiya hai”

Kabir raised a brow looked between them  

“toh?”

Advik cut in dry

“toh kya toh pura suunlo phir bolna toh” he said

Kabir looked at them confused

“surprise hoga, birthday hai”

Ayra looked at him, the said quieter but sharper  

“yaa wwe ring Banega aaj ghar”

Kabir’s smile faltered

“kehna kya chah rahe ho bhai subah subah phook Rakha hai kya kuch”

Dhruv casually cut in

“din ka time hai, tune kya phooka hai?”

Advik cut in

“sidhi baat hai Bhabhi ka plan hai” advik said simply

“par phansenge sab”

Kabir waved it off

“kya bole jaa rahe ho uski biwi hai accha hi ho—”

As he was saying three of them said together

“vivaan, vivaan bhaiya”

For a moment Kabir froze, looking at three of them

“kya?”

His eyes widened slowly, shock, amusement, mixing with disbelief

“vivaan kya?”

Dhruv nodded

“haan”

Kabir leaned back still processing everything

“matlab she wants to...” he said

“yup” ayra said shrugging

“raj ne kaashvi ko vivaan ke baare mei bataya hoga” dhruv explained evenly

“kaashvi being kaashvi raj ko aise nahi dekh sakti”

Ayra said again

“toh she said let’s call him and his family for dinner today”

For a moment there was a pause between them

Then Kabir let out a low breath rubbing his jae

“pagla gayi hai kya? Raj kya bole…” he was saying but stopped lips twitching despite everything  

“khairr” he sighed

 “woh apni noor ka gulaam woh usse bolegi ‘avi chalo dono chhatt se kudte hai’ aur banda puchega pehle mai yaa tum?”

ayra snorted despite the situation

“good one, but problem ye hai ki shaam ko hoga kya jub sabke saamne honge dono”

Advik folded his arms

“hoga kya vivaan bhaiya lene ki try karenge raj bhaiya maarne ki”

Kabir was quiet for a moment, he tapped his fingers on the armrest, thinking

“she is either extremely brave”

He paused

“..yaa usse maze lena bhaut pasand hai”

Ayra smiled
“dono”

“waise plan bura nahi hai” dhruv said and everyone looked at him

“haa Babaji aap mahaanta ke devta hai, tu shaant reh sakta hai unn dono ka pata hai na” Kabir said

Dhruv just rolled his eyes done with their antics

“pata hai but jaddbudhiyo ye socho bade papa, aur vivaan ke papa ke saamne thodi na kuch karenge dono”

They all made an ‘O’ face

“ye toh hai par kaashvi ko ye nahi pata kya raj or vivaan ka abhi extreme panga hai ticket ko leke” Kabir said leaning forward elbows on his knees

Ayra shrugged

“Bhabhi ne bass bola unn logo ko bulana hai abb raj bhai ne bataya toh hoga hi Bhabhi ko”

“According to Bhabhi wo dono ek dusre se bhaagte hai, baat band hui isliye misunderstanding aayi so....”

Kabir’s expression softened, thoughtful now

“waise” he said slowly

“plan bura nahi hai family ke saamne baat karenge hi or zabaan par laagaam dono uncle laga denge unki”

Advik straightened clapping his hands once

“chalo phir kaam par lagte hai order diye gaye hai” he rolled his shoulders dramatically

Then with a dramatic flair he said

“Bhabhi punya ka kaam kar rahi hai do hanson ke jode ko Milana”

“pagal” dhruv said smacking advik lightly one the back of his head

“kya hai mandir ka ghanta samjte ho aap or raj bhai mujhe” he said  

Ayra burst out laughing, Kabir just smirked dhruv just watched them knowing

evening was going to be anything but calm

“mai bata raha hu inn dono ka sahi ho gaya na sabse badi problem kaashvi ko hogi” Kabir said leaning back arms folded lazily  

Three of them nodded smiling and laughing

“usne dekha nahi hai abhi dono ko sath mei” dhruv said shrugging

Ayra looked at them wiping her eyes still giggling

“waise Bhabhi ne apni half sautan ko bhi bulane kaha hai”

Kabir’s head snapped

“mandira?”

The room went quiet, each of them nodded

Kabir stared at them

“she said misunderstanding sabki dur honi chahiye”

Kabir just snorted, listening to her

“kuch bhi,” he waved a dismissive hand

“bhaut tez hai, raj ki biwi hai woh, dekho vivaan ke plan se usse pata hai aviraj ticket jeet jayega, or mandira se sab theek karke raj ke liye hi business mei sahi rahega”

“dono miya biwi milke humara pagal bana rahe hai”

For a beat dhruv, advik ayra just looked at him trying to understand everything

Then advik said almost surprisingly

“bete..” he said amused

“Bhabhi ka dimaag utna bhi chota nahi hai”

Dhruv smiled faintly calm but certain

“raj sirf uski suunta hai” he said

“or wo dusro ko sirf uske liye suunaati hai”

Ayra’s smile softened something fond almost dreamy settling in her eyes

“kitne understanding hai dono ke bich” she said quietly

“humare personal Laila majnu”

Kabir shrugged

“kaun bolega chaar mahine pehle, kaashvi ne iski gaadi phodi thi aur isne usko dhamkaaya tha”

All of them smiled

Dhruv laughed under his breath, shaking his head, advik leaned against the wall, grinning, ayra laughed softly

“aaj dekho birthday, surprises, planning, dosti, sab ek chhat ke neeche” Kabir said

Dhruv exhaled slowly

“sirf kaashvi kar sakti hai”

Advik nodded

“aur raj bhai jo sirf unhe bina sawal kiye bolenge ‘haan meri jaan jaise tum kaho’

“she actually changed something in him” Kabir said

Dhruv nodded

“not changed usne bass waha jagah banayi hai jaha raj kisiko nahi aane deta hai and she deserves to be there”

Ayra straightened

“chalo” she said

“abb sab apni duty yaad rakhna phir
 Kabir smirked they shared one last knowing look, amused, nervous, excited

“aaj yaa toh sab theek hoga yaa sab hilega” advik said

A few moments later

Outside the iron gates slid open smoothly, a white government plated sedan rolled din, clean, understated, unmistakably official, no drama just quiet authority

The car stopped in the driveway

The driver stepped out first and opened the door

Aarav emerged calmly

His pressed shirt fitted him perfectly, sleeved rolled up to his forearms, spectacles rested on his nose, catching the sunlight for a moment as he looked up at the house

His face screamed calmness and maturity, sharp jaw, composed featured eyes held a quiet softness, thoughtful, observant, carrying responsibility without complaint being an ias, yes but before that an elder brother who had learned early to hold himself together so others wouldn’t fall apart

Then meher stepped out

She didn’t wait for anyone

The door shut behind her with a soft thud as she adjusted her sleeves of her black kurta a little loose and the contrasting white bottom, everything about her scream purpose

Her height wasn’t imposing but her presence was

Hair pulled back into a low, sleek pony tail, her face was calm, eyes steady, but there was a different kind of excitement in her

Her posture was straight, chin lifted slightly, steps confident and measured

“bhaiyaa” she said excitedly already grinning softly

“kya reaction hoga uska, pakka record karenge”

Aarav smiled, small, genuine

“hmm dono aise milogi jaisi janmo ki bichdi ho” he said, being amused

Then softer almost fondly

“bhaut miss kiya hai uski bak bak ko”

Meher smiled

“aur uske drama ko”

Aarav smiled, he turned around gestured lightly to the driver

“ye sab aap andar le aaiye, dhyaan se” he said voice firm but polite

The driver nodded immediately

Meher peeked at the bags, eyes widening

“aunty ne kitna saara saaman bheja hai” she shook her head in disbelief

“khud nahi aa paayi toh pura Dehradun hi bhijwa diya lag raha hai”

Aarav shrugged, a helpless smile on his face

“maa ka logic, beti ka sasural matlab extra responsibility”

Meher smiled fondly as they walked toward the entrance

The house welcomed them with quiet warmth, the soft echo of footsteps on marble, sunlight spilling in through the tall windows, the faint smell on incense lingering in the air

It was live in settled, not a place trying to impress but just a place that belonged

Meher slowed instinctively, eyes taking everything in

The walls held photos, old and new family moments, mid laughter, festivals

Her gaze softened as she looked
“bhaiya dekho wo kaashvi ke karwa Chauth ki hogi” she whispered pausing infront of a photograph that caught her attention

Aarav looked at it, eyes softening as he studied the picture

Kaashvi was in it, bright eyed in a red saree, hugging someone tightly, clinging in that sweet possessive way of hers, her smile wide, and her eyes sparkled in camera

Aviraj in the same frame, looked at her rather than the lens, hands adjusting the stand of her hair with subtle affection and a faint content smile tugging at his lips

“khush lag rahi hai” aarav murmured almost to himself, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly as the soft warmth of moment reached him

Meher’s gaze softened a small smile tugging at her lips

“bhaut khush bhaiya, she tells me every day avi ne aaj ye kiya, avi mere liye ye laaye..” she motioned subtly, her voice light yet full of pride

Aarav exhaled slowly, a small sigh that carried weight of protective older brother a quiet relief mingled with fondness

He thought of his sister, her smiles, her boldness, the way she navigated life with a mix of fierceness and tenderness

“she deserves everything” he murmured

A quiet affirmation that she had earned every joy, that someone like her deserved a man like aviraj

For the first time both of them felt a soft, unspoken settle in their hearts

They saw another photograph,

Kaashvi and advik mid laugh faces flushed with mischief, sitting cross legged on the floor as if engaged in some battle of words

“ye pakka advik hai” meher said softly

“kaashvi bata rahi thi, dono bhaut masti karte hai, ladte bhi hai, sabko pareshaan karte hai”

She chuckled shaking her head fondly

Aarav leaned slightly studying her expression, the careful sparkle in her eyes, playful defiance in advik’s

Though aarav spoke to kaashvi regularly, heard about her days, her small adventures, but seeing this, the proof of her laughter her happiness loosened something deep inside

It stuck him in a quiet unguarded way, his sister, his kaashvi was happy, truly happy

And this came after marriage, so sudden so unplanned in world’s eyes yet somehow perfectly aligned in hers and aviraj

She had found joy even with someone so new, someone she didn’t even know, someone she had allowed herself to trust

Aarav’s shoulders relaxed visibly, a faint smile brushing his lips

Meher noticed

“khush lag rahe ho bhaiya?”

Aarav’s eyes flickered to hers

“haa..bas woh…accha laga dekh kar ye, I was scared for her” his voice almost soft

“she deserves this, my little sister after everything we have seen—” he stopped

Meher understanding smiles, knowing what they both have seen at home

“bhaiya she is happy see,” she said and aarav just looked at the picture and nodded

And in the quiet hall filled with weight of memories and photos, he allowed himself to be relaxed and believe his sister was with someone right

As they walked further inside

“accha ghar hai” she murmrued

Aarav nodded once

“haa sukoon wala”

Inside..

The living area, where the afternoon was lazy and unguarded, everything paused

A servant came to dhruv, advik and Kabir

“sir kaashvi mam’s brother and her friend have arrived”

Kabir had been lounging on the couch, phone in one hand, teasing advik about something

Dhruv stood near the window, skimming through a patient’s file

Advik sat cross legged on the floor with his guitar, absent mindedly plucking strings

The moment the servant spoke

Kabir froze, actually froze

“friend?” he repeated under his breath

His brain refused to think for a second

Then his mind went back

Meher, his dua

The room went distant, noise dulled, time folded inward

For years, unsaid things, unfinished sentences, misunderstandings

Every effort he had made to pull her closer to this city, this life every silent hope

She was here, finally

His lips curved into a smile, soft, almost boyish

“meri dua” he whispered

He turned sharply toward dhruv, eyes bright, voice suddenly too alive

“bhaiiii..” he grinned already halfway

“woh aa gayiiii, mera piya ghar aaya o ram ji” he sang already hopping around

“meri duaaaa” he said

Dhruv didn’t even look at him now, knowing his love doomed friend

He closed his file with practised patience and muttered

“apni izzat sambhaal warna jaise aayi hai usse jaldi bhaag naa jaaye”

Advik being confused looked at them

“inhe kya ho gaya bhai kya dawayi nahi khayi kya pagalpann ki?”

Kabir just grinned holding advik’s shoulders

“dawayi khud chalke aayi hai meri” he said dreamily

Advik not understating anything just scoffed

“kisne banaya inhe lawyer mai dalaal bhi naa banau inhe” he muttered while Kabir was lost in his own world

Advik stood up instantly, now excitement bubbling in him

“Bhabhi ne bataya tha aarav bhaiya or meher didi ke baare mei chalo chalo”

Kabir in his own world leaned on advik and dhruv walking in between them as if still lost, swinging from one shoulder to other, eyes dreamily looking ahead  

“pakdo bhai apne dost ko pagla rahe hai ye” advik said pushing him towards dhruv

Dhruv holding his shoulder shook his whole body

“hosh mei aa saste Romeo”

Kabir shot him a glare

“tu samajta nahi yaar”

“samajta hu” dhruv replied dryly making Kabir stand properly

“isliye bol raha hu normal reh”

Kabir inhales straightened his shirt, ran a quick hand though his hair,

“kaisa lag raha hu”

Advik moving forward smirked

“aree ek dum—” he said making Kabir grin

“fuddu joker ke chacha” he completed

And Kabir just smacked his head

“bete ye sirf ghanta samajte hai mai football banake chordunga” he said

Dhruv just rolled his eyes at their theatrics

“chalo dono wait kar rahe honge woh”

“haa haa chal chal” Kabir said hurriedly moving forward

“ye nahi sudhrega” dhruv muttered shaking his head

The three of them moved toward the hall. Meher was mid-sentence with aarav when she heard the footsteps

Her smile faltered, her heart started beating faster as if she could already sense his presence

She looked up

Three men stepped into view

Dhruv first, calm compose, eyes assessing gently,

Advik right beside him open grin, curiosity sparkling, energy spilling out of him without apology

And then,

Kabir

For a second the world did that cruel thing where it narrows to that one person

Her breathing hitched, as she looked

No matter how much she tried, no matter how much she says she have moved on, but this, standing infront of him brings back everything

He looked, the same and different together

Same crooked confidence in the way he stood, same familiar shoulders, same presence that used to fill the room without trying,

But he had grown, the light stubble, the boyish look he used to have was faded a little

But there was a restraint in him now, not the carefree she knew him

As if he had learned where to stop

Meher’s expression didn’t change much but her breathing fastened, as she inhale and exhaled slowly trying to calm herself

“no meher, no” she thought
“you have left that girl behind,”

Meher’s expression was calm, polite, controlled

But something flickered in her eyes

Her eyes briefly met kabir’s across the room

For a moment air seemed to thickened between them the years of history, laughter, folding into that silent glance

Kabir held her gaze, he didn’t take his eyes off her, something inside him finally felt alive again, then his eyes soften

“meri dua, you look so beautiful just like before” he thought his eyes never leaving hers

His look was of quiet fondness

Enough to make something inside his chest tighten the part of him that never let her go

“I am so sorry jaan, so so sorry” he thought, as flashbacks of everything hit him

The party, the girl, meher, her tears, their days together

For a moment his eyes glistened as he looked down trying to not let anyone see

Dhruv, sensing it leaned

“shaant ho jaa she is here now” he whispered softly

Kabir nodded walking forward

Advik blissfully unaware of subtle tension crackling in the air, looked at them
“finally!! Aap log aa gaye” he said his grin wide but it cut through the momentary heaviness

Dhruv ever the calm observer offered a small knowing smile

He noticed meher’s controlled state, kabir’s careful restraint

Dhruv stepped forward smoothly breaking the tension

“you must be aarav” he said extending a hand

“dhruv, aviraj’s brother”

Aarav shook it firmly

“nice to finally meet you, bhaut bataya hai kaashvi ne tumhare baare mei”

Dhruv smiled politely

Advik leaned in next cheerfully said

“kya formality kar rahe ho dono sab ne yaha ek dusre ke baare mei suuna hai toh gale milo” he said coming forward

Everyone smiled some easily, some with effort

Advik didn’t bother waiting, he stepped forward, with his usual unfiltered warmth and wrapped him in a quick, firm bro hug the kind that was half welcome half declaration

“finally” he laughed patting aarav’s back

“ghar ke ek aur bhaiya aa gaye”

Aarav blinked for a second, then smiled surprised but comfortable, understanding

Why kaashvi and advik bonded the most

He returned the hug with equal sincerity and happiness

“bhaut bataya hai kaashvi ne tumhare baare mei” aarav said honestly as they pulled back, his tone warm eyes gentle

Advik grinned wider, pride flickering across his face

“aur maine bhi aapke baare mei suuna hai” he said casually then added with a dramatic mock seriousness

“mummy se”

Everyone’s eyes shifted to him

“ki kaashvi ke bhaiya jaisa bann, seekh kuch” advik finished nodding solemnly

They looked at him and laughed, light, genuine easing the air

Aarav shook his head, a little embarrassed but amused rubbing the back of his head

Dhruv smiled quietly at the exchange, pleased, the tension in the room softened, diluted by familiarity, by easy acceptance

Even though they have met for first time, there was a bond between all of them, because they have heard about each other mostly either from kaashvi or aviraj

Meher stood slightly to the side, posture composed, hands folded lightly infront of her

Kabir was still few steps away watching her, quiet now, guarded again

Advik then turned, eyes landing on meher

Recognition lit up his face instantly

“arey!!” he exclaimed, stepping toward her, hand outstretched

“lawyer jii humne toh baat ki hai”

Meher’s lips curved before she could stop

She didn’t take his hand instead she hugged him in the sisterly, familiar arms around his shoulder, brief but affectionate

“haa aur unko hug aur mujhe handshake kaante nahi lage hai mujhpe” she said with a small laugh, pulling back

“kaashvi ke dholki”

Advik beamed like he had just been awarded a medal

“best title I have ever had” he said standing beside her

Kabir frowned slightly eyes flicking between them confusion breaking through his restraint

“abe teri behan jaisi hai wo kamine” Kabir thought looking at advik, jaw tightening slightly, as he stared at advik’s arm, around her shoulder

“baat ki hai?” Kabir asked voice firm genuinely puzzled now

Advik glanced at him grin turning mischievous

Without hesitation he slipped an arm around meher’s shoulder calm, harmless but pointed

“haa” he said easily enjoying this far too much

“chotu Bhabhi ne karwayi thi ek din bhaut plan bane hai hum sabke”

The words landed

Meher stiffened now not from advik but kabir’s gaze sharpen on them, she didn’t react, her face stayed neutral

Something shifted in kabir’s expression, his eyes slightly darkened expression changing, the easy charm slipping away replaced by something quieter, possessive, hurt, confused

Meher kept her face neutral, calm as if not caring

For a beat he said nothing, the exhaled

Pulled himself back

He stepped forward breaking the moment, and turned to aarav

“finally” Kabir said pulling him into a quick genuine hug

“normally mil gaye”

Aarav smiled, hugging him back just as easily

“haa” he said honestly

“kaashvi aviraj ki situation mei toh baat karne se rahe”

Kabir pulled back with a grin, nodding

“unka alag hi chalta hai”

Then, his eyes moved to her

She was looking anywhere but at him, at the sofa, at advik, at corner of the room. Anywhere except where he stood

Kabir hesitated for half a second

Then softly carefully like approaching something fragile

“hey”

It wasn’t dramatic, it wasn’t confident, it was just…him

Meher’s eyes flickered to him, before she looked away something inside her breaking again

“hi” she replied

Just one word, polite, neutral, controlled

No warmth, no bitterness, just distance

Kabir felt it settle in his chest like a quiet undeniable truth

she wasn’t the same now, the girl who ran behind him in college chasing him, threatening him, smiling in his arm, eating with hands, teaching him

she was here

but she wasn’t his anymore

dhruv cleared his throat softly the sound cutting through the moment

“chal” he said easily gesturing toward the living room, voice calm but carrying authority without trying

“abb unhe andar aane de yahi panchayat lagayega”

Advik looked at him and nodded

“haa chaliye chaliye samdhi ji”

That broke the remaining stiffness everyone laughed, they all moved together

“tere samdhi kaha se hue?” dhruv said

“aree Bhabhi ke bhai or friend woh, hum Bhabhi ke sasural wale toh ofcourse na dhruv bhaiya common sense bro” he said

Dhrub just shook his head saying to aarav

“ye thoda mental piece hai yaha ka”

Aarav just smiled

“tubb hi kaashvi ke sath zyada banti hai” he said

They all moved in together

The living room opened up, warm lights, comfortable sofas,

It felt lived in safe, a family space

Aarav sat, posture straight but relaxed hands resting loosely on his knees

Dhruv took chair opposite to him, naturally slipping into conversation

The house felt fuller,

Meher sat on couch beside aarav, hands folded in her lap, back composed, eyes wandering everywhere except settling at one place

Kabir took arm chair opposite to her

Advik dropped into corner seat legs stretched out, energy still buzzing, while dhruv quietly motioned to staff to bring water

“so how was the journey?” dhruv asked

“it was good” aarav replied

“fortunately traffic was kind today”

Advik just sighed

“aap dono kitne formal ho rahe ho bhai” he said with an exaggerated sigh

“tameez bolte hai usse” Kabir said

Advik just looked at him smirking

“achanak se badi tameez aa gayi aapko aaj hi” he said gesturing to someone making Kabir glare at him

Meher just sat there, legs crossed back straight

She answered when spoken to, smiled when needed, but her eyes never once drifted in front

Kabir

He sat opposite to her, one arm resting on his knee, the other gripping the edge of the cushion tighter than necessary

He nodded when spoken to, responded to dhruv and aarav but he wasn’t like his usual self, his attention kept pulling back to her

She laughed softly at something advik said

Not loud, just a curve of her lips

Kabir’s jaw tightened

She looked steady, grounded like someone who had rebuilt herself and didn’t intend to let anyone shake her again

He tried to look away but failed

Every little thing he noticed it, the way she tucked a strand of her behind her ear, the way her fingers rested lightly on her dupatta, the calm confidence in her posture

And the way she didn’t even acknowledge him

Not even once

It was deliberate he knew that

Kabir watched her talk softly as advik told something about kaashvi

“seriously we did so much fun that day, and Bhabhi ne poora ghar sar par utha liya tha” he said waving his hand

Meher smiled at that genuinely this time

“typical kaashu” she said amused

Kabir watched her speak kaashvi’s name softly such ease and warmth and something inside him twisted

She was still soft still kind

Just not for him

“I cant let you go dua, not again” he thought

The room filled with casual chatter, work, plans, and everything

Advik cleared his throat suddenly

“mai maa papa, chacha chachi ko bulata hu”

Aarav and dhruv nodded continuing their talks

Advik flashed meher a friendly smile, going down the corridor

Aarav’s gaze shifted around the room

“kaashvi kaha hai?”

Dhruv’s expression softened instantly in understanding

“aaj raj ka birthday hai” he said easily

“surprise dena tha usse uske office gayi hai, pura din ussi ke sath hai aaj”

Something inside aarav loosened thinking that means their relation was good

He hadn’t realized how tightly he had been holding that worry

He nodded slowly lips curling into the faintest of smile, just feeling relieved

Dhruv noticed, he always did

He placed a hand on aarav’s shoulder

“I know” he said quietly voice dropping just enough to be personal

“as an elder brother, sabse mushkil hota hai apni behan ko dur jaate dekhna”

Aarav’s just sighed his jaw tightening for a second

Dhruv paused then continued

“I wont say much” he admitted

“because jub tak tum khud naa dekhlo you wont believe”

“but trust me…she is happy”

He paused

“and raj—”

He exhaled a small chuckle

“-wo toh uske liye”

Before dhruv could finish

Kabir leaned forward

“pura paagal hai” he said casually like it was most obvious truth in the world

“pata nahi kya kya kar jaata hai uski noor ke liye”

Dhruv looked at him, knowingly

Aarav turned too

“haa dekhi thi maine gala ki photos dono ke”

Kabir smirked slightly

“tattoo kara Rakha hai janab ne uske naam ka” he added amused

“or bataya tak nahi kisiko”

Aarab blinked, dhruv too was shocked

“ye kub hua?” dhruv asked

“tune notice nahi kiya hoga, kabhi dekhna uske left haanth ke backside par”

“kaashvi ne bhi karaya hai” came the voice of meher now

Kabir’s head snapped toward meher the moment her voice cut through the room

For a second, he forgot whatever restrained he had, his eyes stayed on her, because he hadn’t expected this to come from her, not after the way she had been avoiding him

Dhruv’s brows shot up

Aarav turned toward meher

“kaashvi ne?” aarav asked disbelief clear in his voice

“usse dard se bahut dar lagta hai’

Meher nodded lips curving into the faintest smile

“hmm bhaiya” she said gently

“par bhaut excited or khush thi bol rahi thi ‘avi ko accha lagega na woh gussa naa ho ki kyu karaya dard hua hoga’

She paused remembering her words

“mujhe photo bheji thi usne”

She unlocked her phone fingers moving with ease and tilted the screen toward them

“ye raha”

Aarav leaned first eyes widening as the image registered

It was kaashvi’s wrist, delicate slightly red around the ink, the A etched on it delicately with a small heart

Dhruv let out a small breath

“she actually is fearless” he muttered half impressed, half stunned

“I guess mere paas shayad raj ke tattoo ka bhi hai photo” he said already reaching his phone

He scrolled once, twice then turned screen to them

“yeh”

Dhruv squinted eyes, then stared properly

Noor written delicately with a small crescent moon on his back hand near thumb on the sides of hand

“usne lene diya tujhe ye?” dhruv asked suspiciously

Kabir shrugged utterly unfazed

“pagal hai kya” he said flatly

“maar daalta woh toh”

“mai baitha tha meeting mei, uska dhyaan presentation par tha aur mera—” he tapped his temple

“uske haanth par, tubb hi dekha maine zoom karke dekha toh confirm kiya tattoo hi hai”

Dhruv looked at him

“aur pehle kya laga?”

“cockroach” Kabir replied

“kasam se mujhe laga kya chipak gaya iske haanth pe mai maarne wala tha”

Dhruv laughed openly now, shaking his head

Aarav smiled too

“lekin noor kyu?”

His brows furrowed just a little

Dhruv smiled then soft, knowing

“uska naam” he explained

“raj usse noor bulata hai” he said

“aur kaashvi pura din avi avi” Kabir completed

“din kya saans saans mei hospital mei break par aake bolegi bhaiya avi busy honge kya call karu”

And then as laughter settled something inside aarav settled

He looked down at meher and kabir’s phone again

His sister

A man she had married as a stranger

And yet, tattoos, surprises, reckless affection

"kitni jaldi badi ho gayi aise lagta hai kal hi mere sath bunty bubbly ko pakadke baithi thi” he murmured

Something warm loosened in his chest

Dhruv noticed the shift in him

“dono pagal hai” he said lightly but there was certainty his voice

“ek durse ke liye, I have never seen raj like this”

Aarav nodded slowly a faint smile returning as relief fully settled

The conversation again settled into a rhythm after that, gentler warmer

Dhruv leaned back slightly

“waise I have heard a lot about your work aarav” he said honestly

“upsc isn’t just an exam it’s a way of life, clearing with all the family responsibility” he said sounding impressed

“takes discipline most people don’t have”

Aaran adjusted his spectacle instinctively, a habit born In him

“thanks” he replied

“I have heard impressive things about you too, kaashvi tells me how you guide and help her, clearing neet, surgery, medicine its not easy and on top of that politics” a faint smile touched his lips

“that’s not small either,”

Dhruv chuckled softly

“phirse wahi kaam ki baatein” Kabir said rolling his eyes

“tum dono ko chord do toh lag raha hai meeting chal rahi hai”

Dhruv ignored him smoothly and turned his attention to meher

“meher tum?” he asked gently

“tumhare kya plans hai aage ke”

Meher straightened slightly

“I am preparing for the bar exam abhi toh job ke sath” she said calmly

Kabir for a moment stilled

He didn’t look at her immediately just listened

He knew it all, her dreams the late-night college library, coffees, studies together

Her voice explaining the same thing eyes bright with certainty

Dhruv nodded, impressed

“law isn’t forgiving” he said

“bar exam demands patience”

Meher smiled faintly

“so does everything worth doing” she replied

“law isn’t an easy space” aarav said thoughtfully

“especially one who doesn’t bend”

Meher’s lips curved
‘I don’t bend bhaiya” she agreed

“I break things”

Kabir smiled despite himself

“that past hasn’t changed” he whispered

She looked at him eyes sharp

“neither has your habit of commenting when not asked” she replied coldly just enough for him to hear

Kabir just looked at her for a moment he thought he saw his dua back the bold, the one who fights for right, fearless

But she just ignored him again talking to others

They talked like that casually asking about their lives, conversations flowed easily not feeling like they met for the first time

Dhruv asked aarav about his field postings, politics of administration

Meher too listened, polite, attentive

Kabir listened too, but not to the conversation

His eyes drifted to her again and again taking in details he already knew by heart

Dhruv cleared his throat
“looks like we have formed a support group of stressed people”

Aarav smiled

“that’s the beauty of friendship than” he said

Then..

Footsteps echoed from the corridor

Aviraj’s mother entered first, graceful yet visibly excited, eyes already scanning the room, with curiosity and warmth

Right behind her was aviraj’s father, tall, composed, authoritative, without being intimidating this time

Malini and vivek followed them both smiling openly

The moment aarav saw them he stood up, no hesitation or forced formality

He walked forward as they came to him and bent down touching their feet respectfully

“namaste uncle, aunty” he said softly

Aviraj’s mother gasp lightly, instantly placing hand on his head

“aree khush raho beta” she blessed him warmly eyes shining

“bahut suuna tha tumhare baare mei aaj mil liye”

Aarav straightened smiling genuinely

“maine bhi aap sabke baare mei” he replied politely

“kaashvi sabke baare mei batata hai especially aapke ki maa jaise lagta hai aapke sath”

Aviraj’s mother’s expression softened instantly

Her fingers lingered for a second linger on aarav’s head as id blessing had turned into something personal

Her eyes glistened faintly with pride and affection mixing

“beti hi toh hai meri, 2 gadhe beton ke baad” she said fondly half laughing

“aane do raj bhai ko” advik said in mock offence

Aviraj’s father stepped forward his presence steady voice calm but warm

“bhaut suuna tha tumhare baare mei” he said

He placed his hand lightly on aarav’s shoulder

“accha laga milke beta”

Aarav inclined his head again respectful but relaxed now

Malini moved closer her smile bright and open

“toh ye hai kaashvi ke bhaiya” she said teasingly

“hume laga koi serious officer jaise honge tum toh bhaut dashing se ho”

That made aarav’s neck instantly warm, his lips pressed together trying not to smile

“malini kya bol rahi ho” Priya said shaking her head

Vivek beside her chuckled

“sanskaari bolo mohotarma” he said

Aarav smiled a little embarrassed but amused

“officer hu, par ghar ka hi hu” he replied simply

That line draws a few soft laughs

They all settled around now, the atmosphere instantly warmer

Aviraj’s mother and chachi instantly shifted their focus to meher

“tum meher ho na?” his mother asked warmly already reaching out

Meher stood up instinctively moving forward touching their feet

“jii aunty”

Aviraj’s mother smiled fondly

“bohot accha laga tumse milke, kaashvi tumhara naam leti rehti hai”

Chachi added teasingly

“aur abb hum samje kyu”

Meher smiled softly, controlled and composed

Kabir watched from distance noticing how she softened just a fraction

Aviraj’s mother leaned forward slightly curiosity bubbling over

“tum dono aaye bass?” she asked looking between aarav and meehr

“iss baar bhi hume samdhi samdhan jii se milne ka mauka nahi mila”

Aarav smiled, a little apologetic

“maa toh aana chahti thi aunty,” he said

Then he paused, just a beat long as if choosing his words carefully not wanting to tell much

“par papa ko thoda kaam tha, toh maa ko bhi rukna pada”

The explanation was smooth, respectful, no excuses no oversharing

Aviraj’s mother nodded understanding

“haa lekin agli baar aana hoga warna hum nahi suunenge koi bahana”

Chachi chimed in cheerfully

“kum se kum tum dono aaye, ronak si aa gayi ghar mei warna ye sab gadhe apne phone mei lage thae” she said

“maa mai nahi” dhruv said

“mai toh laga tha bhai jhoot kyu hi bolu” advik said shrugging

The living room was filled with warmth, talks, not for a moment anyone felt like they didn’t know aarav and meher, they felt like home

Aviraj’s father finally spoke again voice steady

“beta tumhare kaam ke baare mei bhaut suuna hai” he said looking directly at aarav

“its genuinely appreciable, especially last year flood reliefs ke liye”

Aarav nodded respectfully

“thank you uncle”

He then added a little more animated

“infact maine bhi aapne jo Dehradun mei initiatives shuru kiye thae, urban planning, and water management ke liye I have studied those closely, kaafi progressive approach tha”

That caught everyone’s attention

Aviraj’s father raised his brows slightly impressed despite himself

“you have looked into that?”

“yes” aarav replied calmly

“ground level policies work better than headlines”

There was a brief silence

Not awkward but respectful

Dhruv exchanged an impressed glance with Kabir

“bhai sahab ye dono sharma jii ke bacche bade tez hai ek doctor ek ias” advik said to dhruv

“toh seekhle kuch” he said

Chacha ji nodded appreciatively

“kitna sanskaari hai aur intelligent bhi” he said to malini

The conversation flowed naturally,

Aviraj’s mother leaned forward slightly her tone gentle but firm as if she wanted to address something that was on everyone’s mind

“beta” she began voice softening

“we know things between our families aren’t like normal ones, matlab jaise sab hona chahiye tha waise nahi ho paaya”

Aarav understanding what she was telling nodded politely listening carefully

His expression calm yet inside he was bracing himself for the topic everyone was thinking about

From the corner Kabir muttered to dhruv

“aunty bol nahi paa rahi, but bolna chahti hai hume kya pata tha dono ek dusre ke saath bhaag jayenge”

Dhruv rolled his eyes subtly but didn’t comment further

Aviraj’s mother continued

“everyone was shocked, when they both came like that, even we didn’t see it coming, but hum ye zarur keh sakte hai, kaashvi abb humari beti hai, we love her already, jo kushiyan uske aane se aayi hai we cannot describe that and remember for us tum bhi bete aur beti hi ho” she said looking at him and meher

“hum sab ek family hi hai”

“aare ye sab chordo mujhse pucho sabse zyada favourite mai hi hu chotu bahbhi ka” advik said making everyone chuckle

“isliye dono idhar udhar fudakte ho sath mei shaitaano jaise”

Aarav smiled respectfully seeing the love his sister got in her new family

“that means a lot aunty”

There was a pause as the words sank in the sincerity in her voice grounding the room

Then aarav gently added, still measured but with a touch of honesty

“humare liye bhi shock hi tha, we didn’t expect ki dono…it happened suddenly but in the end if they’re happy that’s what matters”

Meher who sat quietly smiled softly her voice warm as she interjected

“aunty ne toh aviraj jiju ko pehle hi accept kar liya tha she always liked him, even uncle bhi impressed hi thae woh toh beech mei gadbad kardi…” as she said she realized what she was saying

“gadbad?” aviraj’s father said being confused

“uncle wo matlab dono ne chhupke shaadi ki na toh gadbad kisiko bataya hi nahi” she said hurriedly making everyone nod as she sighed in relief

Kabir looking at the scene smiled

The room brightened immediately, everyone talked, chuckled, a subtle warmth spread across the hall

“jo hua so hua hume bass kaashvi mil gayi aur kya chahiye” malini said smiling

“for us she is truly a part of our family since that day only, and we are so happy to see the happiness she brings….raj ko aise pehle kabhi nahi dekha hai humne, she brings out the softness he hides, aur hume bhi lagta hai dono ek dusre ke liye hi hai woh” aviraj’s mother said

“tubb hi toh maa

Avi ki noor..” advik started

“aur noor ka avi” meher completed making everyone laugh

Aarav chuckled quietly, but silently he felt a wave of relief wash over him

Observing the family’s genuine acceptance happiness, seeing them talk about kaashvi and aviraj with so much affection, he allowed himself a rare moment of calm

Priya watched quietly for a while now the way aarav’s sat straight despite long journey, the way meher’s shoulders were little stiff travel fatigue hidden behind politeness

She spoke, voice warm and motherly

“tum dono thak gaye hoge aao rest karlo”

“its okay aunty, yahi theek hai” he replied

Before she could say anything more chacha jii leaned forward mildly offended in the affectionate way only elders could

“kyu bhai?” he said with a half-smile

“ye bhi tumhara hi ghar hai, tum iss ghar ke bacche”

Aarav’s smile softened at that

Chachi ji clapped hands lightly

“mai guest room ready karne ke liye bolti hu”

Aarav raised his hand gently, shaking his head

“nahi aunty, its really fine” he said apologetically

“waise bhi mujhe raat hone se pehle nikalna hai”

Advik blinked

‘kyu bhaiya?”

Aarav exhaled then explained calmly

“its first day of work here tomorrow”

“paas ke district mei tranfer hua hai, I have to check a few things, talk with people”

Dhruv looked at him slightly confused

“yaha?”

“haa” aarav nodded

“kuch mahine ke liye, temporary posting hai”

The room collectively absorbed that

Aviraj’s father nodded slowly

Chacha ji smiled

“accha hai kaashvi ke sath time mil jayega”

“sirf Bhabhi kyu? Hum nahi hai kya abhi toh bhaut plan banenge aarav bhaiya ready rehna” advik said smiling making aarav nod 

Aviraj’s mother turned to meher concern already in her eyes

“beta phir tumhe toh rukna hi padega”

Meher straightened instinctively

“nahi aunty” she replied politely tone gently but firm

“maine bhi office ke paas room liya hai, abhi shifting ka kaam aur saaman sambhaalna hai bhaut”

Chachi ji clicked her tongue softly

“tum bacche bhi na… lekin abb aate rehna hai dono ko”

Meher and aarav nodded smiling

Conversation flowed easily after that, about work, posting, politics,

Aarav answered everything calmly, never over sharing never distant

Meher listened more than she spoke but when she did it was polite measured

The house felt fuller somehow

And somewhere between cups of tea and talks

They weren’t just guests anymore, they were family

For the first time since his sister’s marriage the thought settled in aarav’s mind not as fear or doubt but as quiet certainty

She was not alone here

She was home with loving people  

Suddenly advik straightened eyes lightening up like he cracked a code

“waise” he said dragging the word theatrically

“mere paas ek idea hai”

Every head turned toward him at once

Advik grinned clearly enjoying the attention

He rubbed his palms together once, leaned forward slightly

“Bhabhi or bhaiya thodi der mei aa jayenge” he begain eyes flicking to everyone

“toh aarav bhaiya or meher didi”

He pointed at them both

“aap dono bahar mat rehna”

Meher blinked

Aarab tilted his head being curious

“chhup jaana” advik added casually

Then dhruv’s lips twitched

Aviraj’s mother leaned in already intrigued

Advik continues now fully in his mode

“phir jaise hi Bhabhi aayengi tab bahar aana”

He made a dramatic sweeping gesture

“Proper surprise dena hai’

“sahi hai woh raj ko surprise deri hum usse de dete hai” Kabir said

Aarav’s eyebrows lifted slightly

Meher’s lips curved into a small amused smile

“raj bhai ko toh already pata hai aap aa gaye ho mai unhe plan ka bata dunga” advik added waving that concern away

He then pointed at everyone

“par Bhabhi bhaut tez hai unko bilkul idea nahi lagna chahiye”

The room buzzed instantly

Aviraj’s mother smiled wide

“hmm idea toh accha hai” she said

Chachi smiled excitedly

“hmm kaashvi ko bilkul expected nahi hoga ye”

“hmm waise bhi kuch din se baat nahi hui thi aaj siddha muh par daraungi usse” meher said rubbing her palms

“yess didi” advik said giving her a high five

Dhruv crossed his arms being amused

“tu kabse itna dimaagdaar ho gaya”

Advik shrugged proudly, waving him off

“oo talent hai mera jo aap log daba dete ho”

Everyone laughed

Aarav smiled saying

“theek hai phir” he said calmly

Meher nodded too soft but sure

“bass timing bata dena”  

Advik grinned like he just won

“perfect”

Excitement settled in the room, soft laughter, exchanged looks, unspoken coordination

A few moments later

Away from the laughter, the planning, the quiet excitement building downstairs down stairs, the house had another rhythm going on

Upstairs near the open balcony corridor, ayra stood alone

The space was flooded with late, afternoon light, golden and soft, filtering through the sheer curtains that swayed gently with breeze

The world here separate, muted, untouched by conversations and surprises

Ayra adjusted the pleats of her kurta instinctively, her dupatta tied, then loose again

Her phone lay face down on the side table, forgotten

No messages checked, no calls returned

Only the music

She pressed play

A slow classical composition filled the air, table beats steady, the ghungroo rhythm matching the calmness

Ayra closed her eyes for a brief second, inhaled deeply and let her body remember what her mind didn’t need to instruct anymore

Her foot slid back, heel lifting

Tat, then the turn, controlled, precise, weight shifting with practised grace

Her hands followed, wrists fluid, fingers shaping stories in the air

Each movement deliberate, rooted in years of discipline, yet there was an ease to her less correction, more surrender

She spun lightly, hair loosening with every turn a few strands spilling free to frame her face

The fabric of her yellow Anarkali flared softly, dupatta trailing behind it like was chasing her motion

She hummed under her breath, matching the melody

Her expression soft yet changing with the lyrics perfectly

No one watching, no pressure

Just her and the dance

This was her space

Here she wasn’t someone’s daughter, or responsibility, someone expected to behave in a certain way

She was just ayra  

Aarab walked through the corridor with long measured strides, phone pressed to his ear, voice low and controlled speaking to the officials

“yes I have gone through the file” he said calmly

“no the site visit wont be postponed I will review it personally tomorrow morning”

His jaw tightened

“send me the updated report by tonight, I don’t want assumptions I want data”

His shoes echoed softly against the marble floor, the house quiet in that particular afternoon hush

Her turned a corner, still talking

Then..

A soft sound slipped through the air

Not loud, not abrupt

Just soft music

A slow rhythm, classical, measured, alive

His steps faltered

He frowned slightly, listening to it despite himself

The rhythm wasn’t random it was soft structured

Each beat held intention, the soft rhythm of ghungroo followed

Underneath it a faint hum floated soft and unguarded as if whoever was making it was unaware

“listen” aarav said into the phone, distracted now

“I will call you back in five”

Before the other person could protest he ended the call

Something in him making him follow the slow rhythm of sound

Silence rushed back in but the music remained

Aarav stood still for a second, phone lowering slowly to his side

This wasn’t curiosity, it was something subtler

The kind that pulls someone without asking permission

The rhythm continued drawing him forward

Almost unconsciously he followed it

His footsteps softened as he moved down the corridor, past a pillar, toward the open balcony are where sunlight spilled freely

With every step the music grew clearer, ankle taps, the chime of ghungroos, breath moving in sync with motion

Then..

He saw her

Ayra

She stood framed by light, mid movement, body aligned perfectly with rhythm

Her hands moved like they were shaping language itself, fingers precise, eyes focused somewhere far beyond walls

Her hair flowed freely now, catching the light as she turned,

The song began softly …

Maltee gundhaye kesh pyare gulgubare

Maltee gundhaye kesh pyare gulgubare

Mukh daminee see damakata chal matwaree

Chal matwaree, chal matwaree

Her feet responded before thought could interfere

A gentle

Tat tei ta, heel brushing the floor, toes answering with precision with every taal

Ankles firm, posture erect, chin lifted just enough

Her hands rose slowly, wrist rotating,

Dhayee sham rok lai, rok lai, rok lai

Dhayee sham rok lai,

Aur chakmaka (mukh chum lai

Her brows knit faintly, eyes narrowing in mock annoyance lips curving in shyness, she tilted her head shoulder angling just so as if addressing someone invisible infront of her – why do you tease me?

Kahe chhed, chhed mohe garwa lagayee

Kahe chhed, chhed mohe garwa lagayee

Kahe, chhed, chhed mohe

Nanda ko lal aiso dhit

Nanda ko lal aiso dhit

 
Her right foot struck again sharper now, the ghungroo less rhythm still echoed, one hand rested at her waist the other lifted

A small smile broke through ter

Her eyes sparkled, shoulders rolling into the movement

Aarav stopped, completely

His eyes lifted up, one the open terrace above, framed by sunlight and shadow, a girl moved

She was dancing, kathak

Not a performance, just movement

Aarav didn’t step closer, didn’t realize he had stopped walking

He simply, watched

He didn’t think she is beautiful

He didn’t think who she is

He just watched

Not like a man admiring woman, like someone

Witnessing something sacred and not wanting to disturb

Her expression changed with every beat, serene, intense, telling stories without words

The soft hum escaped her lips again

Aarav felt something unfamiliar loosen in his chest

He didn’t judge, didn’t analyse

Just witnessed

Suddenly as if realising what he was doing

“no” he thought suddenly

His looked down, his gaze dropped in instinct

“I shouldn’t watch someone like this, not without her permission”

The thought was immediate, instinctive

A line drawn without hesitation

He closed his eyes briefly, turning his face away

He took half a step back

And suddenly the lyric changed

Sar se moree chunaree (gayee)

Sar se moree chunaree gayee

Sarak sarak sarak

Ayra spun, faster this time

Her arms lifted, body flowing into the lyric and with her fast turns

Her dupattas loosened

Slipping from her shoulder, catching air, extending outward like a living thing

Before he could react or do anything or even leave

It brushed aarav’s shoulder, soft, light, unavoidable

The yellow fabric brightening in the light

He froze

His eyes opened slowly, instinct pulling them down to the fabric now resting against him

The dupatta hung there for a breath too long as if the moment itself had decided not to hurry

Ayra still lost in the movement, unaware completing her turns

Aarav didn’t touch the dupatta

Not immediately

His fingers flexed, hovered mid-air, hesitating

“should I touch it….without her permission?”

The thought came unbidden, almost abruptly formal for such a simple thing

But that was who he was, permission mattered even in silence

His hand lifted then stopped mid air

“no” he murmured to himself under his breath almost embarrassed by the thought

“galat hoga”

The moment stretched then.. before he could decide a voice called out

“ayra!”

She smiled softly, breathless, taking her water bottle

“aa gayi mummy”

She gathered herself, hurried away barefoot not looking back, leaving everything behind

Without seeing him

The dupatta slipped fully into aarav’s hand

He stood there alone now, the rhythm still echoing faintly in his mind

Only then did he realize his phone was still clutched in his hand, forgotten

“ayra” he murmured unconsciously under his breath like the name itself carried weight

Even though it was just a moment, just a girl in her own world, something inside him shifted not drastically

Maybe it was nothing, but that wasn’t a moment he’d forget

Slowly carefully he gently touched it and gathered the fabric, folding just enough to keep it safe as if it was something he was trusted with

He didn’t smile, but something warm settled quietly in his chest, unfamiliar and unsettling

On one side of the city

Kaashvi drove spending time with her husband planned everything, aviraj sat behind her one hand light on the handle beside hers, other resting casually at her waist, loosely

As they both made the day theirs, just them together

A quiet companionship

They weren’t rushing toward anything

While on the other side of the city

The house buzzed like a controlled storm

Servants moved, dining table was being extended chairs aligned

Advik on orders of his mother supervising like a self-appointed mabager waving his hand dramatically

“ye idhar nahi udhar, haa wahi” he said

Kabir stood beside dhruv and aarav arms crossed watching the chaos unfold

“ye humara personal chintu” he said

Aarav and dhruv chuckled seeing him

Kabir raised his voice just enough to be heard

“aree chintu” he called out

“teen cup chai yaha bhi”

Laughter rippled through the room

Advik turned instantly unimpressed but smirking

“raj bhai ke birthday ka fayda naa uthao warna..” he said and then his eyes drifted to the other side of room as he smirked and lowly said

“meher ka nahi pata zeher zarur mil jayega” he said voice teasing

Kabir shot him a sharp glare

“bakwas band kar”

Advik just grinned wider, thoroughly enjoying

Despite himself kabir’s eyes drifted again to meher

She was speaking to aviraj’s mother, nodding politely, smiling at something her expression calm

She didn’t look his way once

And it bothered him badly

Dhruv noticed but didn’t say anything

Aarav meanwhile remains engaged in conversations, but his gaze…

Wandered now and then, toward the corridor, the staircase, the balcony

As of looking for something

Or someone

The girl with music, the rhythm,

He frowned faintly dismissing the thought and brought his attention back to room

Outside:

A sleek black car slowed to a stop infront of the gate

Engine cut off

Vivaan stepped out his parents following

Crisp shirt, controlled posture, the charm in his eyes, the smugness still there but something in his eyes showed his emotions

The years of friendship, the ignorance, the quiet rivalry all they have been through

And today he was here, for his friend

Something was definitely going to change this evening, was everyone’s thought