Chapter 18

𝑯𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒐 𝒄𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔🎀

𝑰 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒍..💓

𝑷𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔✨❤️ 🥀

𝑯𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚𝒚𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 ✨

✦·┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈·✦

The room was softly lit, quiet except for the distant murmurs outside the door. A ceiling fan whirred lazily above. Naina sat alone in her wheelchair near the window, gazing out at the courtyard where new beginnings were constantly being documented.

But her eyes weren’t seeing any of it.

Tears slipped silently down her cheeks. Her hands lay motionless on her lap, her heart heavy with emotions she couldn’t even begin to name—happiness, guilt, fear, gratitude, and an aching kind of love.

She had just become someone’s wife. Legally. Emotionally. Entirely. And yet, something in her still whispered “Am I truly enough?”

She wiped her cheek quickly, not hearing the door click open.

Ved entered the room quietly, holding a small steel container wrapped in a red cloth. The sweet, comforting smell of gajar ka halwa filled the air around him.

But the moment his eyes landed on her—tears streaking her soft face, her gaze lost—his smile faded.

He walked toward her without a word, crouched beside her wheelchair, and placed the container on the side table. His hand slowly reached out, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye with his thumb “Kya main... itna late ho gaya?” he said softly.

Naina jolted slightly at his voice, quickly trying to mask her tears, but he gently stopped her hand “Nahi... bas thoda thak gayi hoon” she tried to smile faintly.

“Ya thak gayi hai... ya soch soch ke khud se lad rahi hai” he looked at her deeply.

Sensing his glance she looked away, blinking fast, but a tear betrayed her and rolled again.

Ved reached behind him and unwrapped the container, the aroma immediately wrapping around her like nostalgia.

“Apke liye laaya hoon… gajar ka halwa” he smiled “Patane wala to yahi deke patata apko par maine to direct shadi kar li” he laughed “To mera bhi farz banta hai na apko gazar ka halwa khilane ka”

Naina looked at him now, startled. Her eyes widened, glassy with emotions “A-apko ye y-yaad tha?”

“Mujhe bahut kuch yaad hai” he smirked and took a spoon of halwa to her mouth “Jaise us din aap mall me jab hamse mili thi to kya kya kharid rahi thi” she smiled.

That finally pulled a tiny, tear-soaked smile from her “P- par wo to maine galti se le liya tha trust me” she panicked and immediately held her hands “Its okay I was just joking” he smiled again.

He took a spoonful of the halwa and gently brought it near her mouth “Muh to mitha kariye, Mrs Mehta”

She blinked, the words "Mrs Mehta" sinking into her chest like poetry. Slowly, she opened her mouth, taking the bite.

Naina’s fingers clutched the edge of her cloth tightly, her eyes lowering to the floor as she whispered, voice barely audible “Yeh sab… mere liye zyada hai Sir…”

Ved, who had just bought her a box of Gajar halwa-something she had once mentioned she liked—paused mid-step. He turned to her, a slight crease forming between his brows “Kya bola aapne?” he asked, unsure if he had heard her correctly.

Naina looked up, blinking as if pulled out of a trance.

“Kya bola?” she repeated, almost innocently, feigning ignorance.

Ved tilted his head, now a little amused but still confused.

“Abhi… abhi aapne kya bola?”

She sighed, biting her lower lip before replying softly,

“Yahi ki… jo kuch bhi aap kar rahe hain… mere liye… wo sab bahut zyada hai.”

There was a beat of silence. Then Ved suddenly stood straight, folding his arms across his chest with mock seriousness “Main… Sir hoon?” he asked, eyes narrowing in playful offense.

Naina blinked, caught off guard, then immediately realized what he meant. A mischievous glint sparked in her eyes “H-haan… to? Aap aur main business partners hain. To aapko ‘Sir’ bula sakti hoon, na?” she said, barely managing to keep a straight face.

Ved stepped closer, arching an eyebrow, voice dropping with mock suspicion “Aur kuch nahi hoon main?”

She smirked, now thoroughly enjoying this “Aur kya hai?” she asked, tilting her head, trying to act clueless even as laughter danced in her eyes.

He noticed that. Every bit of it.

Without warning, Ved bent down and sat at her level, their knees almost touching. His face leaned closer, shadows dancing on his sharp features under the soft light. The space between them shrank until only a few inches remained between their lips.

His voice was low, intimate “Mam mai aapka pati hoon. Aur wo bhi legally”

A mischievous wink followed.

Naina’s breath hitched—her eyes widened, her heart betrayed her by pounding louder in her chest.

Ved slowly lifted his hand, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. His eyes softened as he leaned in—almost placing a kiss on her forehead… but he stopped. Just a whisper away “I am s-sorry Naina”

Their eyes locked.

He gave a lopsided smile and said softly “Par bina aapki razamandi ke kuch nahi karunga”

Naina’s cheeks flushed. For the first time in a long while, she didn’t look away.

The early morning sun painted soft golden strokes across the small garden of the rented house where Bhoomi and Aryan had started their new life. A modest home, aged but warm with comfort and care, owned by an old man in his seventies—Mr. Mahendra Singh, whom Aryan had lovingly started calling ‘Dadu’.

It had only been four or five days since they moved in, but in such a short time, Mahendra had taken a place in Aryan’s heart like a grandfather he never had. That morning, the air was crisp, the chirping of birds gently filling the silence between them.

Mahendra sat on an old wooden chair in the garden, reading his newspaper with glasses sliding down his nose. Aryan, meanwhile, sat quietly beside him on the bench, staring into nothingness, visibly tensed.

Mahendra glanced up from his newspaper, noticing Aryan's furrowed brows and restless eyes. Folding the paper neatly and placing it on his lap, he turned towards him.

“Kya hua bacche?” he asked softly, placing a warm hand on Aryan’s head “Itne chhote se mathe pe itnaaa tension kyu?”

Aryan blinked, caught off-guard. His throat felt dry, and he struggled for words. Eventually, he looked down and said in a low, broken voice “Dadu… lagta hai bhagwan ji ne sari problems sirf meri aur mumma ke hisse me likhi hai” He paused, his voice quivering “Ek problem khatam hoti nahi ki dusri knock knock karti hui aa jaati hai…”

Tears welled up in his eyes, and before they could fall, Mahendra gently cupped his cheeks, his old fingers wiping away the tears with the tenderness only age could bring.

“Bete…” Mahendra said, his tone firm yet full of love “Aise udaas nahi hote aur haar toh bilkul bhi nahi maante” He smiled, lifting Aryan’s chin to make him look into his eyes.

“Main tumse ye nahi poochunga ki kya-kya bura guzra hai tumhare saath… Bas itna kahunga—bhagwan bhi sirf unki hi pariksha lete hain jinse unhe ummeedein hoti hain beta”

He gave Aryan a reassuring nod “Ya yun keh lo… jo acche khiladi hote hain, bhagwan unki hi testing karte hain—kyunki woh jaante hain, yeh ladka sambhal lega”

Aryan looked at him, stunned for a moment. There was something about Mahendra’s words that struck deeper than any advice he’d heard. Mahendra pointed upwards, towards the open sky.

“Aur ek baat yaad rakhna, agar humne kisi ke saath kabhi bura nahi kiya…”He smiled gently “…toh upar wala bhi humare saath kabhi bura nahi hone dega”

Aryan was silent, absorbing every word as if it were a balm on his worn-out soul. His lips quivered, but this time with an emerging smile. He wiped his tears and let out a shaky breath.

“Dadu… aapko shayad pata nahi par aapki baatein mujhe andar tak chhoo gayi hain” He straightened up, a new energy in his voice “Ab main overthinking nahi karunga, strong banunga, aur sabse zaroori baat…apni mumma ka khayal rakhunga, bhagwan ji par mujhe pura bharosa hai… wo mere saath kabhi bura nahi hone denge”

Mahendra's face lit up with pride, and he chuckled warmly, patting Aryan’s back with fatherly pride “Jio mere sher… ye hui na baat!”

They both sat there for a while, the silence now filled with hope instead of anxiety. The garden didn’t just bloom with flowers that morning—it bloomed with courage.

Mahendra adjusted his shawl as he sipped tea from a small steel cup. Aryan sat beside him, his tablet placed on his lap, but his focus had long shifted from the screen to the quiet presence of the old man next to him.

After a few moments of silence, Aryan finally broke it.

“Dadu, aap akele kyun rehte ho?” he asked with genuine curiosity.

Mahendra let out a soft chuckle, setting his cup down on the stone ledge beside the bench.

“Bete mai akela nahi rehta” he said, removing his glasses and wiping them with the edge of his kurta “Infact, mujhe yahan aaye hue bas ek hafta hua hai” He smiled fondly, eyes twinkling with a certain warmth “Kal meri family aa rahi hai Mumbai—mera beta, meri bahu, unke bacche… aur meri patni bhi sabke saath yahan shift ho rahe hain”

Aryan’s eyes lit up with surprise.

“Accha Dadu!”

“Haan” Mahendra nodded with a satisfied expression.

“Main toh bas pehle aa gaya tha… ghar ki saaf-safai ho jaaye, thoda thoda set ho jaaye sab kuch”

Aryan nodded in understanding, setting his tablet aside and turning fully toward him.

Mahendra gave him a pointed look “Par tum pehle yeh batao— itna pareshan kyun lag raha hai?”

Aryan sighed and ran a hand through his hair “Woh… actually Dadu, maine CUET exam diya hai”

Before he could continue, Mahendra interrupted with a knowing grin “Common University Entrance Test… hai na?”

Aryan looked at him, slightly amused.

“Aree waah Dadu, aapko toh sab pata hota hai”

Mahendra puffed up with a playful sense of pride “Arey beta, meri poti ne bhi diya hai aur uske chakkar mein mujhe bhi sab pata chal gaya” He chuckled, then added “Kal aayegi na woh… tab milwaunga tumse tum dono se— Bhoomi beti se bhi”

A soft smile formed on Aryan’s face. The idea of meeting someone around his age after a long stretch of isolation felt oddly refreshing “Ji Dadu” he replied, nodding.

On the other hand, Isharth was scrolling through his Instagram, logged into his author account. He had just posted a reel—a clip from the most intense chapter of his story, the one where the leads part ways under a misunderstanding. It had barely been a minute since the reel went live when a comment popped up at the top:

“I wish, they happily live together”

A simple sentence. Yet, something about it made his thumb pause mid-scroll. He blinked and reread it, his heart thudding a little louder than before. Then he glanced at the username. His breath hitched.

@kaushiki_

He stared.

"No way..." he whispered.

A flood of comments started rolling in beneath the reel, but his focus remained chained to that one—her comment.

He clicked on the username, half-expecting it to be a coincidence. The profile picture opened—subtly blurred, face hidden beneath a book cover, but something about that faint, crooked smile behind the edge of the page looked... familiar. Too familiar.

He leaned back in his chair, tilting his head as he zoomed in slightly, eyes narrowing with intensity.

“Y-ye to Kaushiki hai…” he muttered, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips “Ye Ye bhi meri reader hai?” His voice trembled slightly, as though afraid to believe it. But his heart already knew. It was her. That smile—he could recognize it anywhere. The way her eyes crinkled just a bit, the same way they did that day in the library when she laughed at his sarcastic retort.

Unable to resist, Isharth quickly logged out of his author profile and opened his private account. Fingers slightly sweaty, he searched for @kaushikil_ again. The account popped up instantly.

He stared at the screen.

A long pause.

Then his thumb slowly hovered over the Follow button.

He tapped it.

Immediately, panic surged through him.

“Shit—” he whispered, pressing the Unfollow button.

He stared at the screen again, conflicted. His thumb hovered once more, hesitant, unsure, trembling. It almost felt like his heartbeats were echoing through the phone screen.

He laughed nervously to himself, brushing a hand through his hair.

“Tu itna kyun soch raha hai, Isharth? Just do it.”

This time, he tapped Follow again—and let it be.

No take-backs.

He kept staring at the screen for a few seconds, then whispered, smiling softly to himself, “Kaushiki… tum bhi bhi mere kahaniyon mein jeeti ho.”

And somewhere, hidden behind that blurry profile picture and a single hopeful comment, her silent support felt louder than any applause he'd ever received.

Isharth was lying on the bed, one arm resting behind his head, eyes tracing lazy patterns on the ceiling. His thoughts were still somewhere between Kaushiki’s blurred profile picture and her hopeful comment. A small smile lingered on his face—but it faded when his eyes casually dropped toward the study table.

Aryansh’s phone was lying there—unlocked.

The bright orange icon of an app caught Isharth’s attention.

He squinted.

“Orange… kya hai ye?” he mumbled, curiosity pricking him.

At first, he turned his face, uninterested. But something about that orange logo kept calling him back. His brows furrowed.

Finally, curiosity won.

He sat up and picked up the phone, tapping the unfamiliar app.

“Wattpad?” he read aloud slowly, tilting his head. “Ye bhi books padhta hai?”

A chuckle escaped his lips, soft and amused.

He scrolled down, expecting some casual reads. Maybe a mystery novel or fantasy story. But then he opened Aryansh’s TBR (To Be Read) list.

And froze.

His eyes widened, lips parting slightly in disbelief.

The titles glaring back at him were a mix of dark, steamy romance, mafia tropes, possessive heroes, and bold, sometimes borderline scandalous themes.

“Kya…Kitna tharki hai ye?” Isharth blinked, scrolling faster now, stunned “Yeh toh full... full dark romance hai shayad jaisa ki Aryan ne bataya tha” He threw the phone “Ye sab kya padh raha hai ye?”

He couldn’t help it—he burst into laughter, quickly covering his mouth with the back of his hand, trying to muffle the sound.

Just then, the door creaked open.

Aryansh walked in, lazily rolling his bike keys around his index finger. His gaze flicked casually toward Isharth, who was suspiciously grinning to himself on the bed. But the moment Aryansh’s eyes dropped to the study table—and more specifically, to the glowing screen of his phone—his steps halted mid-way.

His face paled slightly.

“Bhai...”

Too late.

Isharth sat up with theatrical flair, one eyebrow raised, his grin stretching wide. He pointed dramatically at the phone like it held a national secret.

“Apka Aryansh bada ho raha hai, bhai!” he declared in a fake emotional tone, placing a hand on his chest as if overwhelmed.

Aryansh groaned inwardly, already knowing where this was going.

“Aur seedha dark romance ke world mein entry maari hai? Kyaaaa baat hai!” Isharth added, now full-blown laughing, nearly falling back on the bed.

Aryansh snatched his phone off the table, locking it with unnecessary urgency.

“Aapko chhote bhai ke privacy ka idea nahi hai na?” he snapped, although his ears had turned pink.

Isharth raised both hands in surrender “Arre bhai, mujhe kya pata tha mera chhota bhai ‘Owned by the Mafia Billionaire’ jaise novels padhta hai!”

Aryansh looked away, trying not to crack a smile “That book has depth” he muttered defensively.

“Depth?” Isharth echoed, biting back a laugh “Haan haan, bada emotional depth hai jab hero heroine ko ‘tum meri ho, samjhi?’ keh ke wall pe chipka deta hai!”

Aryansh’s lips twitched despite himself “It’s… character development”

“Of course!” Isharth nodded solemnly “Aur jo tum kar rahe ho, wo hai literary enlightenment”

Still grinning, Isharth lay back again, shaking his head in disbelief and affection.

“Wattpad ka sanskari brand ambassador nikla hamara Aryansh…” he muttered under his breath.

Aryansh rolled his eyes, stuffing the phone in his pocket, but his embarrassment faded under the comfort of their teasing. He looked at Isharth—who still had that stupid grin plastered on his face—and despite himself, Aryansh smiled too.

“Kisi ko batana mat,” he held Isharth's hand “Please please please bhai please kisi ko batana nahi”

“Accha thik thik chal nahi kahunga” he said with a smile.

The evening sun dipped low, casting a warm orange hue across the room as the brothers sat side by side—Aryansh on the edge of the bed, Isharth lounging back against the wall, still chuckling occasionally at their earlier banter.

Aryansh, now over his embarrassment, unlocked his phone again with a small sheepish smirk.

“By the way” he said, scrolling quickly “Ek author hai Wattpad pe… insane writing style, bhai like bilkul real emotions, soft romance… matlab bina cheesy hue bhi dil chhoo jaata hai”

He turned the screen toward Isharth.

“Ye dekho” he added, eyes shining with genuine admiration.

Isharth lazily looked at the screen—and when he finally looked at screen his heart skipped a beat.

There it was.

His author ID.

His story.

The one he had written under a completely anonymous name, never telling a soul, not even Aryansh. A world where he poured his truth, his pain, his dreams, and the love story he never had the courage to live.

For a moment, he froze, caught between surprise and disbelief. Aryansh was unknowingly praising him—the writer, the story, the soul behind it all. And not with brotherly bias, but with raw, honest appreciation.

“Iske dialogues… aur emotions… bhai sach kahun toh, kabhi kabhi lagta hai jaise kisi ne mere dil ki baat likh di ho” Aryansh said quietly, still staring at the screen.

Isharth blinked, trying not to smile too wide.

“Hmm” he nodded casually, trying to keep his voice neutral. “Achha likhta hoga…”

“Achha?” Aryansh scoffed, shaking his head “Ye toh next-level hai. Ye banda kabhi famous ho gaya na, toh main bolunga ki…author ji pehle se fan tha mai apka!”

Isharth chuckled softly, but inside, something warm bloomed in his chest. That pride—silent, secret, and sacred. He watched Aryansh go back to reading the chapter on the screen, completely absorbed.

And Isharth thought to himself “You’ve been reading my heart all along, Aryansh… and you didn’t even know it”

His gaze lingered on his little brother—his first reader now, even if unknowingly. And perhaps, the one who’d always believed in him, even in silence.

On the other hand, the late afternoon breeze danced lazily as the car glided through the narrow city lanes. Inside, Naina sat silently, her gaze fixed on the world beyond the window. Trees passed by in a blur, children played on sidewalks, and life moved around her—but her thoughts were somewhere else entirely.

Ved was driving beside her, one hand on the steering wheel, the other gently holding hers.

His thumb brushed over the back of her hand now and then, as if silently reminding her, I'm here.

He was talking—his voice soft, almost casual.

“Ek din mom ne poocha tha ki Naina ka favourite khane kya hai” he said, glancing at her for a second “Maine keh diya—gajar ka halwa, extra dry fruits ke saath”

A faint smile flickered on Naina’s lips, but she didn’t turn. She simply nodded, still looking outside, her eyes lost in motion.

Ved noticed but he didn’t push.

Instead, he intertwined their fingers slowly, gently, like slipping into comfort rather than holding onto it.

“I hope you’re not nervous” he added quietly.

Naina let out a soft chuckle at that, her eyes finally moving from the window to the mirror on the sunshade.

“I’m not nervous” she murmured, though her tone held a sliver of doubt. “Bas… thoda ajeeb lag raha hai. Sab kuch itni jaldi ho gaya na…”

Ved nodded.

He didn’t argue, didn’t try to prove anything. He just brought her hand closer to his lips and placed a gentle kiss on her knuckles.

“Sab kuch jaldi hua” he agreed, eyes still on the road “Lekin jo sahi hai, uske liye waqt slow karne ki zarurat nahi padti”

Naina looked at him then—just a glance—but it held more than words could.

And in that quiet ride, amidst the honking of distant autos and the rustle of wind through glass, neither of them said it outright. But their silence whispered things their mouths couldn’t.

As soon as the car rolled to a gentle stop in front of Ved’s house, Naina looked up at the grand gate, her heartbeat quickening. Ved stepped out first and quickly came around to her side, opening the door.

Naina hesitated. Her eyes dropped to her feet—the very ones she was still struggling to put weight on ever since the accident. She looked at the entrance of the house, then back at her legs, panic rising slightly. Before she could think further, Ved leaned down—without asking—and effortlessly lifted her into his arms.

“Aree!” she gasped in surprise “Please… humein utar dijiye!”

“Shhh” he whispered with a little smile, starting to walk toward the house.

“Areee seriously… please utar dijiye yeh theek nahi lagta…”

But Ved kept walking calmly, holding her like she weighed nothing, her dupatta fluttering slightly in the breeze.

“Please… sir utar dijiye hame…”

He suddenly halted mid-step.

Naina blinked, looking up at him.

Ved slowly turned his face down toward her, a teasing glint in his eyes.

“Aur kahiye sir…” he repeated her words, voice low but amused “Ab toh aur nahi utarunga aise hi le jaunga… sabke saamne”

Naina’s face turned a deep shade of pink. She looked away quickly, her hands clutching the front of his kurta.

“Sorry… galti se nikal gaya.”

Ved smiled “Mujhe sir sir kehkar distance mat banaiye Naina… hum ab uss stage pe nahi hain” he winked mischievously “Dusre stage pe aa chuke hai”

Naina eyes widened and before she could respond, they reached the main door.

Waiting there were Shobha, Ashish and just behind them stood Kaushiki, her arms crossed, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips.

The moment they saw Ved walking in—with Naina in his arms—everyone’s expression changed.

Shobha’s hand flew to her mouth in surprise, then she chuckled, eyes twinkling and her laughter boomed “Kya baat hai, hero entry de rahe ho!”

Kaushiki raised a brow and smirked “Aur ye dust Danav apna perfect shoot dete hue”.

Ved grinned but didn’t put Naina down.

“Bas thoda real romance hai… over-the-top nahi” he replied smoothly, winking at Kaushiki.

Meanwhile, Naina buried her face slightly into his chest, too embarrassed to even look up.

Shobha’s eyes welled up with happy tears. Her hands folded instinctively, and she smiled at Naina with all the love a mother could carry for a daughter—not just a daughter-in-law.

“Aaj pehli baar meri bahu iss ghar mein kadam rakh rahi hai…” she said, her voice soft and emotional.

Ved gave her a small nod, and Naina, still nestled in his arms, looked overwhelmed. She tried to get down again, whispering, “P-please…”

But Ved gently shook his head “Aaj sari rasmein meri godh mein hi hongi”

Shobha chuckled and stepped forward with a small silver thali, in which the red vermillion paste for tilak glowed beside a little diya.

With her fingertips, Shobha applied tilak on both Ved and Naina’s foreheads—first Ved, then Naina, her hand lingering a second longer on Naina’s head as if blessing her soul.

“Ghar mein sirf bahu nahi, ek beti aayi hai” she whispered to Naina.

Then, with a smile, she turned and lifted a flat brass plate containing red alta and laid a long white cloth on the floor just inside the threshold.

“Naina beta, jab ek nai bahut aati hai to uske pairon ke Nishan ek kapde pe liya jata hai” Shobha instructed and Naina looked at her plastered legs, but Shobha immediately said “Koi baat nahi hum hathon ke Nishan rakhenge aur jab grand wedding hogi aur uske baad jab Naina ghar ayegi to Pairon ke bhi nishan rakh lenge” she smiled.

Hearing her Ved carefully lowered Naina’s hand down toward the alta, and then softly pressed both her palms onto the white cloth. Two vivid red impressions appeared, side by side—delicate, feminine, yet strong.

Ashish clicked a picture from the side, quietly capturing the moment without interrupting the sanctity.

Kaushiki stood beside him, her playful smirk replaced by a look of quiet admiration “Bhaiya ne toh asli wala hero ban ke dikha diya”

As the remaining rasams continued—aarti, rice tipping at the door, and placing a diya at the entrance—Naina remained in Ved’s arms, her gaze alternating between awe and disbelief.

It was all happening. It was real.

And the most surprising part?

She wasn’t nervous anymore.

Because every time her eyes flickered toward Ved, he was already looking at her—reassuring, steady, and silently saying: Main hoon na.

Shobha finally said “Bas, ab dulhan ko apne room me le jao Ved”

Ved nodded and turned to walk further inside, carrying Naina across the threshold—not just into the house, but into a new chapter of her life.

On the other hand, Aryansh was sitting at the study table, chewing the back of his pen while working through his math homework. His brows were furrowed in frustration when suddenly—click!

A memory flashed in his mind.

That day… Isharth’s tablet… that orange icon…

His eyes widened “Wattpad” He almost dropped his pen in excitement.

Without wasting a second, Aryansh jumped up from his chair and strode straight to Isharth’s bed, where his older brother was lying lazily with a book over his face.

“Bhai” Aryansh said, trying to keep a straight face “Mera chhodo… aap batao aapke tab mein Wattpad kya kar raha hai?”

Isharth peeked from under the book, eyes narrowing “Kya?”

But Aryansh had already snatched the tablet from the side table like a detective catching his prime suspect red-handed.

“Snatching rights reserved” Aryansh announced, grinning as he unlocked it.

Isharth sat up immediately “Abe—dee idhar—”

But it was too late.

Wattpad opened. Aryansh tapped swiftly and landed straight into the TBR list.

A moment of silence.

Then Aryansh burst out laughing.

“Areee bhai saab! Soft romance? Haaa apse yahi ummid bhi ho sakti hai, kyuki aap meri tarah bade nahi hue ho” he laughed.

“Haaa haaa chal chal” Isharth said annoyingly “Hasss….accha hai maine apni second Id open kar ke rakhi thi warna ise pata chal jata ki mai bhi stories likhta hu” he looked at Aryansh “Aur jis author ki books ye admire kar rha hai wo mai hi hu”

The evening light streamed softly through the curtains, casting golden patterns across the floor of their room. Everything was quiet now—guests had returned to their rooms, the rasams were complete, and the house had settled into a peaceful calm.

Naina sat at the edge of the bed, her hands resting on her lap, eyes fixed on the floor.

She hadn’t spoken much since entering the room. There was so much to feel—gratitude, nervousness, surprise, even happiness—but words failed her. Her lips parted once or twice, but no sentence formed.

Ved entered a moment later, shutting the door gently behind him. He looked at her—his wife now—Her bangles clinked ever so faintly as she adjusted herself, still not meeting his gaze.

Without saying anything, Ved walked over and sat beside her, keeping an elegant box on the bed between them.

Naina glanced at it, surprised, then looked up at him slowly.

“Ye… ye kya hai?” she asked softly, the confusion in her voice clear.

Ved smiled gently “Apke liye hai”

She hesitated, but Ved held her hands and took the box and said “Kholiye ise” then she opened the box carefully.

Inside lay a stunning red chiffon chunni, rich in embroidery—fine golden zari work danced along its borders, with tiny pearls hand-stitched into intricate floral patterns. It shimmered faintly under the light, elegant and regal.

Naina's eyes widened. Her fingers hovered above the fabric, almost afraid to touch it.

“Ye toh chunni hai” she whispered, genuinely taken aback and looked at him “Ye chunni to dulhan odh ke aati hai na apne sasural wo bhi pehli baar….hai na shayad?”

Ved leaned forward slightly “Haan bilkul shi” and took chunni in his hands and put that on Naina's head and affectionately admired her “Aap bhi to pehli baar hi aai hai na?”

Meanwhile she looked at him, confused.

He met her eyes, voice soft “Yeh, humari nai shuruwat ke liye meri taraf se ek chhota sa gift” he again admired her “Jo sirf aap pe hi sajti hai aur aisa lagta hai apke hi bnai gai hai”

Naina blinked quickly, her eyes stinging with sudden emotion. She had never expected something so personal, so thoughtful. Her hands trembled slightly as she finally touched the fabric.

“Main... is layak hoon?” she murmured, voice breaking just a little.

Ved shook his head “Aap hi iske layak hai”

She looked at him then—really looked at him—and for the first time, her lips curved into a small, sincere smile.

With utmost care, she picked up the chunni and draped it over her head, like a blessing.

Ved watched, completely mesmerized.

“Perfect,” he whispered.

For a moment, silence enveloped them again, but this time it was warm, comforting, and filled with unsaid things—respect, care, and a budding bond that didn’t need words to be felt.

Inside the room, wrapped in a comforting silence, Ved lay on his side, eyes open, watching the ceiling.

Beside him, Naina lay with her back to him, her body still, breaths deep—but not quite asleep.

Ved turned slightly, resting his head on his hand, his eyes falling on her delicate frame. The way her dupatta loosely draped around her shoulder, the gentle rise and fall of her breathing—everything about her felt peaceful, and yet, distant.

His hand inched forward slightly, instinctively wanting to reach out—to hold her, to close the unfamiliar space between them. But he paused.

Her comfort came first.

So he stopped, letting his fingers rest just near her back without touching, and simply continued looking at her.

Someday, he thought. When she’s ready.

Outside, the sky began to rumble quietly.

And soon, the soft patter of raindrops against the windows turned into a steady downpour. The wind picked up, swaying the curtains slightly, and the room grew cooler.

Ved pulled the blanket over her a little more, carefully, so she wouldn’t wake.

But then—CRAAACK!

A loud thunderclap ripped through the silence, followed by a blinding flash of lightning that illuminated the whole room.

“Ahhhhh!” Naina cried out, her voice trembling with panic as she sat up in a sudden jerk.

Without even realizing, she turned and immediately threw herself into Ved’s arms, clutching his kurta tightly, her body shaking against his chest.

Ved froze for a moment—surprised by the sudden closeness—but then instinctively wrapped his arms around her, protective and gentle.

“Naina... Naina, it's okay bas bijli thi… main hoon yahan” he whispered, his voice calm, one hand slowly stroking her back.

Her face was buried in his chest, her heartbeat racing, her fists still clutching him like a frightened child.

“Woh… woh… awaaz…” she stammered, trying to compose herself.

“Shhh…” he murmured, resting his chin lightly on her head. “Darr gai thi? Kabhi kabhi bijli aise hi zor se girti hai” he patted her head “But you’re safe…mai hu na yaha”

She stayed in his arms, not speaking, not moving.

And Ved didn’t let go.

For minutes, they remained like that—close, warm, connected—not through words, but through the quiet strength of his embrace.

Outside, the rain continued to fall.

But inside, for the first time that night, Naina found herself feeling… safe.

And Ved, holding her tightly in the shelter of his arms, silently promised himself—no matter what storm comes… I’ll always be your calm.

After some time.

The rain had softened now, a steady rhythm against the window panes. In the dim light of the room, Naina slowly became aware of her position—her arms wrapped tightly around Ved, her face still buried against his chest, and his arms protectively around her.

Her breath caught in her throat.

She shifted slightly, lifting her face just enough to look up—and found Ved already gazing at her.

Their eyes met and time paused.

For a moment, the thunder, the rain, the world outside—it all faded away. There was only the sound of their breathing, shallow and uneven, and the unspoken storm stirring between them.

Naina blinked, trying to look away, but her eyes refused to move. There was something in Ved’s gaze—warmth, concern, and something deeper... something unnamed. It made her heart flutter, made her breath shaky.

Her hands, which had clutched his kurta moments ago out of fear, loosened—but didn’t let go entirely.

She wanted to move. To step away. To break the silence.

But her heart… didn’t let her. Not yet.

Ved didn’t speak and didn’t move either. His eyes stayed locked on hers, searching, waiting—not demanding anything, but silently asking if she was okay… if this moment was okay.

And Naina, despite her mind screaming logic and boundaries, didn’t answer with words.

She just kept looking.

Because in that one gaze, she felt more comfort than a thousand reassurances. She felt safe, understood… seen.

The silence between them wasn’t heavy—it was full. Full of hesitation. Full of longing. Full of something they both weren’t ready to name yet.

Her lips parted slightly as if to say something… but nothing came.

And Ved, gently, slowly, lifted one hand to tuck a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, his fingers brushing against her cheek—delicate and hesitant.

Naina’s eyes fluttered closed for a brief second at the touch. Then opened again—vulnerable, but calm.

Still no words.

Just eyes talking to eyes.

And in that one long, quiet moment, something shifted between them, not love. But something that had begun to grow roots.

After what felt like forever in that still gaze, Naina finally blinked and lowered her eyes, her breath trembling slightly as she tried to gather herself.

Ved noticed, but didn’t pull away.

He gently whispered “Aap theek ho?”

His voice was softer than ever, as if afraid to break the moment.

Naina gave the faintest nod “Haan…”

She moved back just a little, enough to create space between them but not enough to leave his arms completely. Her hands slowly rested on her lap now, fingers nervously twisting the edge of her dupatta.

“I’m sorry” she said quietly, not meeting his eyes.

“Kis liye?” Ved asked, his tone steady, kind.

She hesitated. “Mujhe… aise nahi… matlab...” She sighed “Mujhe darr lag gaya tha, aur bas… bina soche…”

Ved gave a soft smile “Toh theek hi toh kiya” he smiled “Jimmedari hai aap meri aur apka har dar bhagana meri hi jimmedari hai” he smiled again “Aur insaan ko jab dar lagta hai to wo usi jagah jata hai jaha use safe feel hota hai”

Naina finally looked up at him again, her eyes wide with vulnerability.

“Aur agar woh jagah aap ho?” she asked softly, almost like a confession, but layered with confusion too.

Ved’s smile faltered for a second—because he wasn’t expecting that.

But then he nodded, his eyes gentle “Toh main hamesha woh jagah bana rahunga”

There was silence again, but this time it was warm… tender.

Naina exhaled slowly, and her shoulder relaxed slightly as she allowed herself to lean back just a little—not in fear, not by accident—but with trust.

Ved shifted slightly and reached for the blanket. He pulled it gently over both of them and lay down beside her, keeping a respectful distance, but close enough for her to know—he was still there.

“Naina,” he whispered, staring at the ceiling “main kuch nahi kahunga jab tak aap khud nahi chaho, aap khud ko ekdm free rkhiye is rishte me, but…”

She turned her head toward him, listening.

“Main bas itna chahta hoon aap humesha khush raho”

Naina felt something melt quietly inside her.

Not out of pressure.

Not out of obligation.

But because someone was finally waiting, not demanding.

A soft smile touched her lips as she whispered “Shayad… thoda thoda kar ke ho sakta hai”

Ved turned to face her and gave a slight nod “Bas utna hi kaafi hai”

And that night, under the sound of fading rain and a quietly beating heart, Naina slept peacefully for the first time in weeks—knowing someone was beside her, who didn’t just want her… but truly understood her.

After some days…..

The morning sun filtered gently through the lace curtains, casting golden patterns on the marble floor of the Taneja dining room. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly made parathas, ghee, and Elaichi chai. Plates clinked, spoons stirred, but something felt missing.

Prema’s gaze kept drifting toward the empty chair beside her—the one that once belonged to Naina.

She picked up the glass of orange juice but set it back without sipping. Her eyes welled up just a little, but she masked it with a smile.

She said softly and mostly to herself “Naina ko gaye ab ek mahine se jyada ho gaya hai par abhi bhi dinning table par uski chair dekho to lagta hai ki bas abhi kal ki hi baat hai ki uski shadi hui aur ab wo apne sasural me hai”

Ranjan, seated at the head of the table reading the business section of the newspaper, glanced at her “Prema” he held her hands “Beti ke chale jane se ghar aur humara man ekdm suna ho gaya par use bhi uski nai jindagi me khush rehna chahiye na” she looked at him “Aur dekho na use kitna pyar karne aur samjhne wala pati mila hai Ved” he said.

Prema nodded, trying to smile, but the silence that followed was telling.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang, breaking the mood.

Ranjan folded his newspaper “Subah-subah kaun aa gaya?”

The house help opened the door. A man stepped in—tall, well-groomed, in his early 40s, wearing a charcoal grey blazer. Beside him stood a teenage girl, neatly dressed in her school uniform, her eyes hesitant yet observant.

“Sir, Ranjan sir ke dost aaye hain, Samar ji”

Ranjan said surprisingly “Samar? Arre wah! Andar aao yaar”

Prema instantly adjusted her pallu “Namaste Samar ji… andar aayiye” she said while joining her hands.

Samar Arora smiled warmly, folding his hands in greeting. The young girl beside him followed suit, bowing slightly with folded hands “Namaste Bhabhi… thoda aap logon ko takleef dene aaya hoon”

Prema welcomed “Arey, takleef kaisi? Aapka ghar hai… par sab thik toh hai na?”

Samar gently nudged his daughter forward “Shirdha bhi aai hai mere sath…actually bhabhi ji kjal humein achanak se gaon jaana padega—ek family emergency hai. Lekin Shridha ke exams sir par hain, aur school chodna possible nahi.”

Shridha looked up at Prema with hopeful, nervous eyes “N-namaste aunty”

Samar continued “Main soch raha tha agar kuch din ke liye yeh yahan reh jaaye… jab tak hum wapas nahi aa jaate aur iske exams ka stress bhi kam rahega, aur aap sabke saath rehegi toh sambhal jaayegi”

Prema instantly softened, and hold Shridha’s hand “Arre bilkul bhaisaab yeh bhi toh meri beti jaisi hai… jab tak chahe yahan reh sakti hai”

Ranjan nodded with a faint smile “Tumhe humse poochhne ki zarurat nahi thi, bhai yeh toh apna ghar hai”

Shridha said softly “Thank you aunty… uncle…”

Prema cupping her cheek “Beta aap humare sath comfortable ho jao”

Samar’s eyes glistened, gratitude clear on his face “Aap dono ka ehsaan kabhi nahi bhoolunga”

Prema smiled through warmth “Ehsaan nahi, rishton ka farz hai”

Prema led Shridha inside lovingly while Ranjan pulled Samar aside toward the living room, already talking about chai and office updates.

Later That Morning

After finishing tea and making sure Shridha had settled into the guest room, Samar prepared to leave. He hugged Ranjan and thanked Prema once again, giving a last reassuring glance to his daughter “Apna dhyaan rakhna, Shridha. Aur aunty ki baat maan-na, samjhi?”

Shridha nodded softly “Ji papa”

With a final goodbye, Samar left the Taneja mansion. The main door clicked shut, and silence lingered briefly before Ranjan turned toward the family.

Ranjan cleared his throat “Sab log drawing room mein aa jao… thoda zaroori baat karni hai”

Within minutes, the living room buzzed with soft footsteps as Prema, Isharth, Shridha and Janaki took their seats. Shridha sat quietly at the far end of the sofa, her hands clasped in her lap.

Only Aryansh was missing.

Prema looked around “Aryansh kahan hai?”

Janaki said while adjusting her shawl “Aree abhi to yahi tha….mai bata dungi use”

Ranjan said firmly “Chalo, jab aaye tab usse bata denge. Baaki sab sun lo”

He stood tall in the center of the room, arms folded behind his back, his voice steady.

“Mere ek purane dost ke yaha shaadi hai agle hafte. Bahut kareebi rishta hai… unhone humein poore pariwar ke saath bulaya hai”

Everyone murmured in excitement “Shaadi? Wah, kaun si jagah hai?” Prema said.

Ranjan said while looking at everyone “Venue aaya hai aur teen din ka function hai—haldi, sangeet, shaadi… sab kuch”

While everyone smiled and nodded, Shridha’s smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. She shifted slightly in her seat, eyes fixed on the floor, her fingers anxiously playing with the edge of her kurti. The idea of traveling with a new family, attending a big wedding—she felt like an outsider, unsure where she belonged.

But Ranjan noticed. He paused, then looked directly at her Ranjan said gently but firmly “Aur Shridha bhi humare saath chalegi”

Shridha looked up, startled “Nahi uncle, main… main yahan ruk jaungi. Aap sab enjoy kariye—mera school bhi—”

Prema interrupted softly “Beta school ke liye hum wahan se bhi manage kar lenge. Hum sab jaa rahe hain, toh tum akeli kaise rahogi?”

Shridha blinked, her throat tightening—not because she was being forced, but because she hadn’t expected this warmth, this easy inclusion.

A small laugh escaped Shridha. It surprised even her. For the first time since stepping into the house, she felt a flicker of belonging.

Shridha with a hesitant smile “Thik hai… chalungi”

Prema holds her hand “Bas, toh tayyariyan shuru!”

As the family broke into conversation about shopping, travel, and outfits, Shridha sat quietly, her heart lighter. She wasn't just a guest anymore—she was being woven gently into the fabric of their lives.

The long-awaited day had finally arrived — the day Naina’s leg plaster was to be removed.

Ved was more excited than Naina herself. He gently helped her get ready, making sure she wore something comfortable. As he knelt down to adjust her dupatta, their eyes met briefly, a soft smile exchanged between them — full of hope and relief.

Shobha also accompanied them. The trio made their way to the hospital, a quiet anticipation lingering in the air.

Upon arrival, they waited a few minutes before Naina was called in. The doctor greeted them with a warm smile and began examining her leg.

"Hmm... the healing looks good," the doctor nodded with satisfaction "Ved, I think now we can remove the plaster today."

Ved immediately looked at Naina, his eyes twinkling. She smiled nervously but nodded “Y-yes uncle, as you say”

Shobha gently placed a hand on Naina’s shoulder “Sab theek ho jaayega, beta”

But as soon as Naina heard the doctor say the words "We’ll cut the plaster now" her smile slowly faded.

Her eyes drifted to the side where a nurse wheeled in a small cart, and on it — the machine. It wasn't loud, but the sharp edge of the cutter, its unfamiliar buzzing, and the very idea of it being so close to her leg made her stomach twist.

She stiffened instantly.

Ved noticed it. Her grip on his hand had tightened.

Before he could ask, Naina whispered shakily, her voice barely audible "H-hume dar lag raha hai..."

Her eyes welled up — not because of the pain, but the fear of that cold machine, the fear of movement after weeks of stillness, the fear of “What if it hurts.”

Ved immediately knelt beside her chair, cupping her face gently "Main hoon na?" he said softly, brushing his thumb under her eyes “Dekhiye kuch nahi hoga... main yahin hoon apke paas”

She nodded slightly, still unsure, her lashes heavy with unshed tears.

Shobha came forward too, placing her hand on Naina's head affectionately “Beta, bas thodi der ki baat hai. Doctor uncle sambhal lenge sab. Aur dekho, Ved to waise bhi tumhara bodyguard ban gaya hai” she said with a gentle smile.

Ved chuckled softly and leaned close to Naina’s ear “Jab main saath hoon to kis cheez ka darr?”

Naina looked into his eyes — his calm presence wrapping around her like a blanket.

Taking a deep breath, she slowly nodded “T-theek hai...”

Ved didn't let go of her hand even for a second, his thumb softly tracing circles over her skin.

As the technician switched on the cutter and brought it near her leg, Naina instinctively shut her eyes tight. The sound of the machine buzzed in her ears, and her heart thumped wildly in her chest.

Ved tightened his grip on her hand, grounding her. His warmth, his presence — it gave her the courage she didn’t know she had.

After a few moments, when she realised there was no pain — only a light vibration — her lashes fluttered open slowly.

And the first thing she saw… was him.

Ved wasn’t looking at the technician. He wasn’t looking at her leg. He was looking only at her.

His gaze was steady, soft, full of silent strength. There was no trace of fear in his eyes — only calm assurance, as if telling her “You’re safe. I’m right here.”

Their eyes locked.

And suddenly, the world around them faded — the buzz of the cutter, the presence of the doctor, Shobha’s voice — everything slipped into a blur.

In that quiet gaze, they spoke what their lips couldn’t.

A soft breeze seemed to pass through her heart. Her eyes didn’t move. Neither did his.

She didn’t realise when a faint smile touched her lips, nor did he realise that his fingers had woven more tightly between hers.

And then, as the technician softly said “Done” and moved away, their moment broke — but something inside them had changed.

Naina looked down, shyly biting her lip. Ved blinked as if coming back from a dream, and slowly stood up, brushing her hair behind her ear.

“You did it Naina” he said softly.

Her voice was barely above a whisper “Nahi…maine kuch nahi kiya”

After a while the doctor finished checking her leg once the plaster was off. He moved her foot gently, examining the stiffness.

“There might be slight pain or discomfort when you try to walk” he said, looking at Naina and Ved “But it’s normal. You’ll need support for a few days, and light physiotherapy too”

Naina simply nodded, her eyes still lingering on her leg — so strange to see it free after weeks. Her skin was pale, thinner, and her muscles felt stiff, foreign.

Ved noticed her hesitation. Without waiting for the doctor to call anyone, he stepped forward and extended his hand towards her “Chalo” he said gently “Ek baar chalke to dikhao”

Naina looked at his hand, then at her leg… then back at him. Doubt clouded her eyes.

“Agar mai gir gayi toh?” she whispered, her voice trembling with fear and vulnerability.

He ssmiled while being soft, cconfident and patient “Toh main sambhal lunga”

She looked at him again, her heart tightening. There was so much faith in his eyes, so much love in his voice — how could she not trust that?

Slowly, nervously, she placed her hand in his. His fingers curled around hers like armor.

He brought his other arm around her back, gently supporting her as she rose from the examination bed. Her leg trembled the moment it bore a little weight, and she winced slightly.

Ved felt it “Slowly... don’t rush” he whispered, his eyes never leaving hers.

Naina took a breath. Her first step was hesitant, her body leaning heavily into Ved — but she did it.

Her second step was just as unsure, but this time, she didn’t look down — she looked straight into Ved’s eyes. He nodded, encouraging her.

“See? Ap chal rahi hai” he said, a proud grin on his face.

Naina blinked back the tears that formed in her eyes — this time not from fear or pain, but from something deeper. That strange feeling when someone becomes your strength… your home.

She paused for a moment, still holding his hand, and whispered “Aap nahi hote toh… pata nahi kaise hota”

Ved raised an eyebrow playfully “Toh good thing I’m always going to be there, hai na?”

Her cheeks turned pink.

And for a moment, in that hospital hallway, amidst the scent of antiseptic and the quiet footsteps of nurses — Naina’s world shifted.

Not because she walked again…but because she had someone who would never let her fall.

After a few more steps under Ved’s steady support, the doctor smiled and nodded approvingly.

“Well done, Naina that's a good start” he said kindly, writing down a few notes on his pad “Here are some medications to ease any discomfort, and a light calcium supplement and start your physiotherapy in a couple of days — gently, no pressure”

He handed the prescription to Ved, who took it with a respectful nod “Thank you doctor uncle” Ved said, his voice warm with gratitude.

Shobha stepped forward and smiled, placing a reassuring hand on Naina’s back “Chalo beta, ab ghar chalte hain” she added with motherly affection.

Naina gave a small laugh, her eyes sparkling, still slightly dazed from everything. She was walking again — with trembling steps, yes, but walking nonetheless.

Ved guided her gently as they walked out of the hospital. Outside, the afternoon sun shone softly through the trees, and a mild breeze ruffled the hem of her kurta. For the first time in weeks, she felt the wind brush her skin without the barrier of plaster.

As they reached the car, Ved opened the door and helped her settle in. He carefully placed a small pillow near her leg so she’d be comfortable during the ride.

Once Shobha joined them in the back seat, Ved took the wheel.

As he started the car, Naina leaned her head back, silently watching him through the mirror.

Something in her had changed that day — not just physically, but emotionally. He hadn’t just held her hand…he had held her heart.

And she wasn’t sure if she’d ever be able to forget the way he had looked at her in that room — like she was the most important thing in the world.

She softly exhaled and whispered to herself "Aaj sirf plaster nahi… kuch aur bhi toot gaya shayad shayad mera dar bhi"

And beside her, Shobha smiled knowingly, watching Naina from the corner of her eye — a mother’s intuition never misses such things.

As the car pulled into the driveway, Naina glanced out the window, her eyes scanning the familiar exterior of the house — but this time, she was coming back walking, not in a wheelchair.

Ved quickly came around and opened the door. He offered his hand, and Naina took it without hesitation. With cautious steps, she walked toward the front door, Shobha walking protectively by her side.

Just as they stepped into the living room, Ashish looked up from his newspaper. His expression softened instantly upon seeing Naina walk in.

“Naina beta!” he stood up, surprised but pleased “Tum… tum chal ke aayi ho?”

Naina gave a small smile and nodded “Ji unc…I mean Papa ji”

Ashish’s eyes twinkled, and a proud smile tugged at his lips. “Bahut accha laga yeh dekh ke…humesha khush raho”

Shobha chimed in “Aur Ved bhi toh haj Naina ke sath”

Ved gave a modest shrug, trying to act unaffected, but his eyes betrayed a quiet happiness. He gently guided Naina to sit on the sofa.

Just then, Kaushiki walked in, tying her hair into a loose bun. “Areh waah Bhabhi You’re walking?” she said with genuine excitement and rushed to hug her “That’s such a relief!”

Naina laughed softly as Kaushiki hugged her lightly, being mindful of her.

Ashish cleared his throat with a gentle smile and looked around at everyone.

“Waise” he began, his tone slightly formal “ek zaroori baat kehni thi sabse”

Everyone looked at him, curious.

“Hume ek shaadi attend karni hai mere ek bahut purane dost ki beti ki shaadi hai. Bohot hi kareebi rishta hai, aur unhone poori family ko bulaya hai — hum sabko”

Kaushiki raised an eyebrow “Shaadi kab hai?”

“Do hafte baad” Ashish replied “Shayad teen din ka function hai haldi, mehendi, shaadi sab kuch mila ke aur unki havelil mein sab kuch arranged hai aur unhone kaha hai kisi ko mana nahi karna hai”

Ved looked at Naina, who looked a little hesitant, still unsure about traveling in her condition.

Ashish noticed “Naina beta, agar tumhe thoda rest chahiye toh alag baat hai par agar theek mehsoos karo toh…chalo aise mood bhi divert hoga aur accha feel karogi”

Shobha nodded “Aur bahut dino se bahar bhi nahi gai ho beta” Shobha cupped her face “Accha lagega tumhe”

Naina looked around at their warm, supportive faces. A small smile curved her lips.

“Ji… main chalungi” she said softly, and Ved, who had been silently watching her the whole time, smiled faintly — almost as if he already knew what her answer would be.

Kaushiki clapped once “Great! Time to pack lehengas and jhumkas”

✦·┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈·✦

𝑺𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓??

𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 18?

𝑷𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 ✨❤️

𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒔.

𝑩𝒚𝒆𝒆𝒆𝒆𝒆𝒆!!

𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 💖

𝑳𝒐𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 💕

~𝑵𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒙𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒔_