Chapter 20: Chapter 15: Arjun's Care and Love

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Ananya

It’s the weekend, and being with Arjun has quickly become my favorite thing. I also love the way he kisses me. Even though we’ve kissed before, every single time feels special because he always makes sure I’m comfortable. That’s why I could never dislike any kiss that comes from him. It’s surprising how even his smallest kisses have this effect on me, making me feel things I don’t fully understand. But I won’t dwell on those thoughts because, with Arjun, everything just feels right.

I had just finished getting ready when I called out to him.

“Arjun…”

“Yes, Firefly?” he replied, walking into the room. He paused when he saw me dressed up and asked, a hint of confusion in his tone, “Are you going somewhere?”

“Yes, I’m going to meet Pooja. It’s been ages since we last met, so I’m heading over to her place. I just wanted to let you know,” I said with a small smile.

He smiled back and said, “Let’s go. I’ll drop you.”

“No, it’s okay. It’s the weekend; you should rest,” I protested gently.

But Arjun walked over to me, cupped my face in his hands, and said, “There’s no way I’m letting my wife go alone. And as for resting, I can do that anytime. You, Firefly, are my priority. So, I’m dropping you, okay?”

His words made my heart flutter, and I couldn’t help but smile as I nodded.

He kissed my forehead softly, then bent down so his eyes were level with mine. The intensity in his gaze gave me butterflies as he added, “And stop worrying about others too much. Everything I do, I do because I want to.”

With that, he straightened up and went to get ready.

As Arjun came downstairs, ready to leave, he looked at me with that familiar warm gaze that always made my heart flutter. He slipped the car keys into his pocket and approached me, stopping just a step away.

“Before we leave,” he said, his voice soft but firm, “there’s something I need to tell you.”

I tilted my head slightly, curious. “What is it?”

“Mom’s been asking when we’ll visit. She misses you and wants us to come home for a few days. She also mentioned she has something for you,” he explained, his expression gentle but expectant.

I smiled instantly. “Oh, of course! I’d love to go. It’s been a while since we’ve stayed there.”

His eyebrows lifted slightly in surprise. “You’re okay with it?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” I asked, tilting my head. “I enjoyed staying there after the wedding. Your family is wonderful, and I’d love to spend some time with them again.”

Relief flickered across his face, and his lips curled into a soft smile. “I’m glad to hear that. It’ll mean a lot to Mom.”

“I should probably let her know we’re coming,” I added thoughtfully.

“No need. I’ll tell her tonight that we're coming tomorrow,” he said before leaning in to press a kiss to my forehead. His lips lingered for a moment, sending a familiar warmth coursing through me.

Straightening up, he grabbed the car keys again. “Alright, let’s go. I don’t want Pooja to think I’m keeping you hostage.”

I laughed softly, and we headed out.

As we drove to Pooja’s house, I couldn’t help but feel lighter. The thought of going back to his family home didn’t make me nervous—it felt comforting, like returning to a place filled with love and warmth.

Arjun glanced at me as we stopped at a red light. “You’re smiling to yourself. What’s on your mind?”

I looked at him, my smile widening. “I was just thinking about your family. It’ll be nice to see them again.”

He nodded, his own smile reaching his eyes. “They’ll be happy to see you too. Mom keeps asking me why I didn’t marry you sooner.”

I chuckled, feeling a pleasant warmth settle in my chest. Being with Arjun made everything feel so effortless, even these small moments of teasing.

When we reached Pooja’s house, he surprised me by saying, “Call me when you’re done. I’ll be waiting nearby.”

I frowned slightly. “Aren’t you coming inside?” I asked, hoping he’d change his mind.

Arjun smiled warmly, his hand resting casually on the steering wheel. “I don’t want to interrupt two best friends catching up. You’ll have more fun without me hovering around.”

“But you don’t have to wait,” I protested gently. “Just go home and rest. I’ll be fine.”

He shook his head firmly, his expression soft but resolute. “Not happening, Firefly. I’ll wait. Take your time. Besides,” he added with a teasing glint in his eyes, “what if I drive off and you decide to stay with Pooja forever? I can’t take that risk.”

I couldn’t help but laugh at his playful remark, though my heart warmed at his protectiveness. “You’re impossible.”

“And you’re my priority,” he replied, his tone softer now. “Call me when you’re ready, okay?”

With that, he leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead, his lips lingering just long enough to send a shiver of warmth through me. “Go on. Have fun with your friend.”

As I got out of the car, my heart felt unusually light. I watched him drive off, a small smile playing on my lips.

I couldn’t wait to tell Pooja everything, from his insistence on dropping me off to our upcoming stay at his family home.

And as I walked to Pooja’s door, one thought kept echoing in my mind: How did I get so lucky to have him?

I knocked on Pooja’s door, and as soon as she opened it, she pulled me inside, wrapping me in a tight hug.

“Babydoll! I missed you,” she said dramatically, squeezing me like I might disappear.

I laughed, hugging her back. Pooja has always been larger than life, and I loved that about her. She currently lives alone in her apartment. I’ve met her family before—they’re incredibly warm and welcoming. However, due to the long commute to work, she decided to move out and live independently. Though she misses her family, she seems to have embraced this new chapter of her life with her usual determination and spirit.

“Relax, Pooja. I missed you too,” I replied.

“Now spill!” she demanded, stepping back but keeping her hands on my arms. “Tell me every single thing I’ve missed in the past few days!”

I chuckled at her excitement. “Okay, okay, I’ll tell you everything. Just let me sit down first!”

We moved to the living room, where she plopped onto the couch beside me, her eyes shining with curiosity.

As we talked, I told her how Arjun turned out to be my CEO, a twist neither of us had seen coming. When I explained how we’d realized it on my first day at work, she gasped dramatically, throwing her hands in the air.

“What?! Arjun Malhotra, your husband, is also your boss? This is straight out of a movie!” she exclaimed.

I laughed, nodding. “I know, right? None of us knew until that day.”

Her face lit up with mischief. “Okay, but the real question is... have you guys kissed?”

Her bluntness made me blush, and I tried to hide my smile. But Pooja, being Pooja, caught it instantly.

“Oh my God!” she shrieked, clapping her hands together. “You have! And look at you, all shy about it!”

Before she could say anything more, I quickly added, “I’m fine, Pooja. Nothing happened. I didn’t have a panic attack when he touched me or kissed me. It’s... different with him.”

Pooja took my hands in hers, her gaze softening. “You seem different, Ananya. Happier. Is it because of him?”

I hesitated, unsure how to put my feelings into words. But eventually, I admitted, “He’s... he’s amazing. I never thought I’d feel this way, but he’s so patient, so understanding. It’s like he knows exactly what I need without me even saying it.”

Pooja tilted her head, studying me carefully. “So, you don’t feel uneasy or unsafe when he’s close or touches you, right?”

I shook my head, smiling softly. “No, not at all. He’s never made me uncomfortable, not even once. If anything, I feel safest and most comfortable when I’m with him.”

She grinned knowingly. “Sounds like someone’s falling in love.”

Her words made my heart skip a beat. Love? I hadn’t let myself think that far. Was it true? Did I have the right to feel that way after everything? And what about Arjun? He had made it clear that he didn’t believe in love, but I couldn’t bring myself to share that with Pooja.

Wanting to change the topic, I smiled slyly. “Enough about me. Tell me about you. How’s life treating you?”

Pooja sighed dramatically, leaning back against the couch. “Don’t even ask, Babydoll. Maa is driving me crazy about getting married. She’s already working on it and keeps sending me pictures of random guys!”

I burst out laughing. “Good for you! Maybe you’ll find your Arjun in one of those photos!”

She shot me a mock glare. “Oh, shut up! If you want to help, you can deal with Maa instead!”

We both laughed, and for a while, it felt like old times again, just two best friends sharing everything. But even as I enjoyed the moment, Pooja’s words lingered in my mind.

Was I really falling in love? And if I was, what would that mean for me and Arjun?

As the sun began to set, I realized it was time to leave Pooja’s place. We had spent hours catching up, laughing, and talking about everything that had happened in our lives.

Pooja glanced at the clock and sighed dramatically. “Babydoll, it’s time for you to go. Call your Arjun Jiju to come pick you up.”

I rolled my eyes playfully. “You don’t have to call him Jiju every time, you know.”

She grinned mischievously. “Oh, but I do. He’s my Jiju now, and I need to show him proper respect. Now, call him.”

I laughed and pulled out my phone, dialing Arjun’s number. He picked up almost immediately.

“Firefly, are you ready?” his warm voice came through, making my heart flutter like it always did.

“Yes, I am,” I replied. “Can you come pick me up?”

“On my way,” he said simply, and I could hear the faint sound of his car engine starting in the background.

When I hung up, Pooja leaned closer with a sly smile. “Next time, both of you are coming here for dinner. No excuses, Babydoll. I need to properly host my favorite couple.”

I rolled my eyes again but smiled. “Alright, I’ll ask him.”

When Arjun arrived, he parked outside and texted me to let me know he was waiting. As I gathered my things, Pooja suddenly grabbed my arm.

“Wait,” she said, dragging me to the door. “I want to thank Jiju properly for taking care of you.”

“Pooja, you don’t need to—” I started, but she was already stepping outside.

Arjun stepped out of the car when he saw us and walked up, his usual composed demeanor in place.

“Hello, Pooja,” he greeted politely.

“Hello, Jiju!” she said cheerfully, earning a raised eyebrow from him. “Thank you for taking such good care of Ananya. She means a lot to me, and knowing she’s with someone like you makes me so happy.”

Arjun’s expression softened, and he glanced at me briefly before replying, “It’s my responsibility and my privilege. Ananya is the most important person in my life.”

Pooja grinned at me, nudging me lightly. “You’re so lucky, Babydoll. Don’t forget to bring him over for dinner next time, okay?”

I nodded, feeling a warmth spread through me at her words and Arjun’s response.

As we got into the car, I waved at Pooja one last time, watching her standing by the door with her ever-cheerful smile.

“Pooja seems to adore you,” Arjun remarked as we drove off.

“She’s always been like that,” I said with a smile. “She adores you too, apparently.”

He chuckled softly. “She’s a good friend.”

As the city lights blurred past us, I couldn’t help but think about what Pooja had said. Knowing I had friends and a husband who cared so deeply for me felt like a kind of happiness I’d never dared to hope for.

Arjun

As I waited outside Pooja’s apartment, leaning casually against the car, I saw them walking out together. Ananya looked radiant, her laughter ringing softly as she chatted with her friend. And then I heard it—Pooja calling her “Babydoll.”

I couldn’t stop the smirk that tugged at my lips. Babydoll? Really? The nickname felt so playful, so lighthearted, so... not me. But hearing it gave me a glimpse of a side of Ananya I didn’t get to see often.

As Pooja marched up to me, full of energy, I couldn’t help but admire how close they seemed. There was no hesitation, no guard between them. Ananya needed someone like that in her life—someone who reminded her how to laugh. A real one.

When Pooja started thanking me for taking care of Ananya, I was caught off guard for a moment. Not because I didn’t understand her gratitude, but because I never thought of it as “taking care” of her. For me, being there for Ananya wasn’t a duty—it was just what I wanted to do.

As I responded to Pooja, I glanced at Ananya. She was looking down, slightly embarrassed but smiling. That shy smile of hers always got to me. It was so genuine, so unguarded.

Babydoll. The nickname echoed in my mind again, and I found myself amused. Ananya probably hated it, knowing her. She wasn’t the kind of person who liked being fussed over or given pet names.

But for some reason, the idea of her having a nickname like that—something so sweet and endearing—felt oddly fitting. Not that I’d ever call her that myself. No, she was my Firefly. Small, fierce, and full of light, even when she didn’t realize it.

As we drove away, I couldn’t help but glance at her again. She was still smiling softly, lost in her thoughts.

“What are you thinking about?” I asked, breaking the silence.

She shook her head lightly and looked at me. “Nothing. Just how Pooja adores you already.”

I chuckled, keeping my eyes on the road. “She’s a good friend. And she calls you Babydoll?”

Ananya groaned, her cheeks turning pink. “Don’t start.”

I laughed, the sound surprising even me. “Relax, Firefly. I like it. It suits you.”

She rolled her eyes but didn’t argue, which only made my smile widen.

Babydoll, I thought again. Pooja might’ve been onto something. But to me, Ananya would always be so much more.

As we drove in comfortable silence, my gaze flickered to Ananya. She was staring out the window, her hair falling softly around her face, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on her lap. She looked peaceful, and for a moment, I allowed myself to simply admire her.

Without overthinking, I reached over and gently placed my hand over hers. The movement was slow, deliberate—I didn’t want to startle her. The last thing I ever wanted was to make her uncomfortable.

Her hand stilled under mine, and for a brief second, I wondered if I had crossed a line. But she didn’t pull away. She didn’t tense up. Instead, her fingers relaxed, and she let her hand rest under mine.

A quiet sense of relief washed over me. This wasn’t just about holding her hand—it was about trust. Trust that I valued more than anything.

I glanced at her out of the corner of my eye, watching for any sign of discomfort, but all I saw was the faintest of smiles tugging at her lips. That tiny, unspoken reassurance made my chest tighten in the best way possible.

“You okay?” I asked softly, not wanting to disturb the moment but needing to be sure.

She turned to me, her eyes warm. “I’m fine,” she said, her voice steady and sincere. “More than fine.”

Hearing those words made something settle in me—a quiet confirmation that we were moving forward, at her pace, on her terms. And that was enough for me.

As I drove, my hand remained on hers, and she made no effort to shift away. Instead, she turned slightly, leaning back in her seat, her posture relaxed. I glanced at her briefly and saw the faintest smile on her lips. That small expression was everything I needed.

The rest of the drive passed in peaceful silence, my thumb occasionally brushing against her hand. It wasn’t intentional—it was instinctive, a quiet reminder that I was there, that she wasn’t alone.

When we finally pulled into the parking garage of my apartment building, I reluctantly let go of her hand to shift the gear. The absence of her warmth felt immediate, and I wondered if she noticed it too.

I turned to her as I shut off the engine. “We’re home,” I said softly, watching her closely.

She met my gaze, her eyes warm and soft. “Thank you, Arjun,” she said, her voice quiet but filled with meaning.

“For what?” I asked, my brow furrowing slightly.

“For being you,” she said simply, the sincerity in her words making my chest tighten.

I didn’t reply. I didn’t need to. Instead, I opened the door and stepped out, walking around to open hers. She stepped out, and as we walked toward the elevator, the quiet between us felt heavier—but not in a bad way.

It felt meaningful, as though we’d shared something without having to say a single word. And that, I realized, was what made being with her so profound.

As we stepped into the apartment, I closed the door behind us, locking out the rest of the world. Ananya started to head toward the living room, but before she could take another step, I reached out and gently took her hand.

She turned to me, her brows slightly raised in question. I didn’t say anything at first. Instead, I stepped closer, sliding my arms around her waist and pulling her softly into me.

“Arjun?” she whispered, her voice a mix of curiosity and something else—something unspoken.

I rested my chin lightly on the top of her head, closing my eyes for a moment. “I just wanted to hold you,” I said quietly, my voice barely above a murmur.

She didn’t resist. Instead, she relaxed against me, her arms slipping around my back. Her warmth, her presence—it was everything I didn’t realize I needed after the day.

We stood there for a while, wrapped in each other’s embrace, the silence between us comforting and familiar. It wasn’t about words or actions—it was about the quiet connection we were building, one small moment at a time.

After a while, I pulled back just enough to meet her gaze. Her eyes were soft, her cheeks slightly pink, and I couldn’t help but smile.

“Tomorrow, we’ll head to my parents’ house,” I reminded her gently, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. “Mom’s been waiting to see you, and I think she’s excited to have us stay for a few days.”

Ananya nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “I don’t mind. It’ll be nice to see them again.”

Her response made my chest feel lighter. I knew she was comfortable with my parents—they adored her, after all—but it still meant a lot to hear her say it.

“I’ll let you know when I’m done packing,” she said softly, stepping out of my arms with a hint of reluctance.

As she moved toward the bedroom, I watched her, a faint smile lingering on my lips. Moments like this—where the world seemed to fade away, leaving just us—were becoming my favorite part of the day.

Tomorrow, we’d be surrounded by family, and life would undoubtedly get busier. But for now, in the quiet of our home, I allowed myself to simply appreciate having her here with me.

We drifted off to sleep in each other's arms, as we always did. There was a quiet comfort in the way we fit together, like two pieces of a puzzle finally finding their place.

♡♡

We're all set to leave for my ...I mean our parents home. As Ananya stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her dress, I couldn’t help but admire how effortlessly stunning she looked. The soft, flowing fabric of her dress—shades of deep purple with delicate floral patterns—suited her perfectly, almost as though it had been designed just for her. The way it moved with her, light and elegant, made it impossible to look away.

Her excitement was evident in the way her lips curved into a small, genuine smile. I knew she was looking forward to seeing Mom, Dad, Rohan bhai, and bhabi again. She adored them, and they adored her in return. That made me happier than I’d ever admit out loud.

I stepped closer to her, unable to resist the pull of the moment. Gently, I cupped her face and pressed a soft kiss to her temple. “You look beautiful, Firefly,” I murmured, my voice low but full of meaning.

Her cheeks flushed ever so slightly, and she offered me a shy smile, her fingers brushing against the flowing fabric of her dress.

“Ready to go?” I asked as I reached for the car keys, my gaze lingering on her for a moment longer.

She nodded, her eyes lighting up with a mix of excitement and warmth. There was a certain spark in her expression, the kind that made me feel like I could do anything as long as she was by my side.

As we headed for the door, I couldn’t help but think how effortlessly she made every place feel like home—even my parents’ house.

As soon as we stepped into the house, Mom didn’t waste a second before pulling Ananya into a tight, loving hug. Her face lit up with pure joy as she held Ananya close. “Come, beta,” she said warmly, taking Ananya’s hand and leading her further inside. “We’ve been waiting for you. I’ve bought so many dresses for you!”

And just like that, I was forgotten, standing at the door as though I didn’t exist. I cleared my throat and stepped inside, raising an eyebrow. “Good to see you too, Mom,” I said, a hint of playful sarcasm in my tone.

That got her attention. She turned to me with a sheepish smile. “Of course, it’s good to see you too, Arjun,” she said before quickly turning her focus back to Ananya.

Dad and Rohan bhai entered the room, both offering me a firm pat on the shoulder. “I’m glad you agreed to stay for a few days,” Dad said with a grin. “Your mom’s been counting down the days to spend time with Ananya.”

“It’s no problem,” I replied, smiling. “Ananya’s been wanting to see you all too.”

Rohan bhai pulled me into a quick side hug, which I returned. “Good to see you, Arjun,” he said, his tone warm as always.

As Dad, Rohan, and I began catching up, my gaze kept drifting to Ananya. She was with Mom and bhabhi, her face glowing with happiness. She laughed easily, her smile brighter than I’d seen in days. It was clear she was enjoying their company, completely at ease with them.

Before long, Mom and bhabi led her upstairs, talking excitedly about the dresses they had bought for her. I watched them disappear down the hall, a soft smile tugging at my lips. Seeing Ananya so happy with my family filled me with a quiet, unspoken contentment. She belonged here, and it was evident that they already adored her as much as I did.

A few moments later, I saw Mom coming downstairs alone. I frowned. “Where’s Ananya?”

Instead of answering, Mom grabbed my hand and led me back upstairs. “Come with me,” she said with a mysterious smile. When we reached the room, she stopped outside the door and turned to me. “Wait here, and only come in when we call you, okay?”

Confused but curious, I nodded and did as she asked. What were they up to?

After a few minutes, I finally heard Mom and bhabhi calling for me. I stepped inside, and immediately, I was met with the sight of the two of them standing together, clearly hiding someone behind them.

“What’s going on, Mom? Why are you both hiding Ananya?” I asked, narrowing my eyes suspiciously.

Bhabi grinned mischievously. “Ready to see your wife?” she teased, and before I could respond, the two of them stepped aside.

My breath hitched the moment my eyes landed on Ananya. Oh. So that’s what they were doing.

She was wearing one of the sarees Mom had bought for her, and she looked... breathtaking. The deep color of the saree complemented her perfectly, and the way it draped around her made my heart skip a beat.

But then Bhakti told her to turn around, and when she did, I froze. Fuck.

The blouse she wore had almost no back—just a single, delicate string holding it together. One pull, and… well, let’s just say there wouldn’t be much left to hold. Her hair was tied in a loose bun, exposing the nape of her neck and making her look even more enticing.

I could feel the heat rising in the room, and apparently, so could Ananya. Her cheeks turned a deep shade of pink, and she couldn’t even meet my eyes. She fidgeted slightly, clearly aware of the effect she was having on me.

Were they trying to kill me? Because this definitely felt like some kind of sweet torture. I ran a hand through my hair, trying to compose myself, but it was nearly impossible.

Mom and Bhabi exchanged knowing smiles, clearly proud of their handiwork, while I was left standing there, utterly captivated by the sight of my wife.

Before I could take even a step closer to my wife, both Mom and Bhabi stepped in, effectively blocking my way. “Sorry, but we need Ananya in the kitchen to help prepare dinner,” Bhabi said with a sly smile, her eyes glinting with mischief.

What the hell? Now they weren’t even letting me near my own wife. They had no idea what they were doing to me—or maybe they did, which made it worse. My control was hanging by a thread, and they were tugging at it without a care in the world.

I stood there, frozen in frustration, as they giggled and whisked Ananya away, leaving me utterly speechless and very, very confused. She glanced back at me briefly, her shy, apologetic smile only adding fuel to the fire raging inside me.

If they kept this up, my restraint was going to snap. And when it did, I wouldn’t just be admiring Ananya from a distance—I’d take her, every single part of her, without holding back. That was the last thing I wanted right now. It wasn’t the right time, and I knew it. But fuck, how was I supposed to make them understand that?

As the three of them disappeared into the kitchen, their laughter echoing behind them, I let out a shaky breath. As much as I wanted Ananya to stay with me, I was almost relieved they left. The last thing I needed was to embarrass myself in front of Mom and Bhabi by letting them see just how hard I’d become from simply looking at my wife.

Leaning against the wall, I ran a hand over my face, trying to calm the storm inside me. This was going to be a long evening.

I leaned against the doorway, watching Ananya as she worked in the kitchen. Her movements were graceful yet hesitant. But what really held my attention wasn’t her movements—it was her back.

That damn blouse.

The single, delicate string holding it together left so much of her bare skin exposed that it was impossible for my eyes not to wander. The soft curve of her shoulders, the delicate dip of her spine—it was mesmerizing, almost maddening.

She must have felt the weight of my stare because I saw her pause for a moment. Then, as if realizing what was drawing my attention, she reached up and pulled her hair loose from the bun. Her waves cascaded down, covering the exposed skin of her back like a curtain.

I smirked to myself. Clever, Firefly. But did she really think that would stop me?

Mom and Bhabi stepped out of the kitchen to call Dad and Bhai, leaving Ananya alone for a moment. I seized the opportunity, walking up behind her quietly. She was focused on something at the counter and didn’t notice me until I slipped my arms around her bare waist.

She gasped softly, her hands freezing mid-motion.

Sliding her hair to one side, I let my lips brush against the bare skin of her back, just below her shoulder. Her breath hitched, and I felt her body stiffen slightly before relaxing into my touch.

“You’re my wife, Firefly,” I murmured, my voice low and intimate. “Don’t hide from me.”

I lingered for just a moment, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my lips, before stepping back as if nothing had happened.

By the time Mom, Dad, Bhai, and Bhabi returned, I was leaning casually against the counter, looking as innocent as ever. Ananya, on the other hand, was a different story. Her cheeks were flushed, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to focus on the task at hand.

Mom gave her a warm smile, oblivious to what just happened transpired, "Beta, is everything ready?"

Ananya nodded quickly, avoiding my gaze, but I didn't miss a slight quiver of her lips or the way her fingers fidgeted with the edge of her saree.

I bit back is smirk. She could try to cover up and play innocent all she wanted, but I'd make my point loud and clear. She was mine. And no amount of hiding was going to change that.

She kept avoiding me the rest of the dinner.

Later, as everyone moved to the living room from dining  room for tea, I found my chance. Ananya had gone to fetch something from the kitchen, and I followed her, cornering her as she reached for the tray.

“You’ve been avoiding me all evening,” I murmured, stepping closer.

She glanced at me nervously, her hands clutching the tray. “I-I wasn’t avoiding you.”

I leaned in, my voice dropping to a whisper. “Liar. You can’t even look at me right now.”

Her breath hitched, and she looked away, her blush deepening.

I reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Firefly, you don't have any idea what you're doing to me.”

I heard Mom calling from the living room. With a sly smile, I stepped back, letting her pass with the tray.

This wasn’t over—not by a long shot.

Ananya

During the entire time, Arjun kept staring at me. Strangely, I didn’t feel uncomfortable; instead, I felt butterflies fluttering wildly in my stomach. When he leaned in, telling me not to hide from him, and then kissed me, a shiver ran down my spine, leaving me breathless.

Afterward, Arjun went to our room. Finally, I was left alone with Mom and Bhabi. They had more dresses for me to try on, but we decided to leave the rest for tomorrow.

Now, it’s time for me to go to our room, where Arjun is waiting.

I entered the room silently, not wanting to disturb Arjun. To my surprise, he wasn’t there. Just as I thought he might be outside, a firm hand wrapped around my bare waist, sending a jolt of electricity down my spine.

I froze as he leaned in, his warm breath brushing against my hair, as though inhaling me, drawing me closer into his presence.

“You’re looking really, really beautiful, Firefly,” he whispered, his voice low and intoxicating. “I couldn’t take my eyes off you...”

Before I could respond, he gently turned me to face him, and our gazes locked. Time seemed to stand still as his deep eyes captured mine, leaving me utterly breathless.

Desire burned brightly in his eyes as he leaned closer, capturing my lips in a soft, tender kiss. It started gently, but soon it grew deeper—needy, hungry, and filled with raw passion. His hands guided me backward, and I barely registered that we were moving toward the bed.

I couldn’t think straight. His lips nibbled at mine, and when a soft moan escaped me, he slid his tongue into my mouth, exploring, tasting every inch. The world outside disappeared as the kiss consumed me entirely. I hadn’t even realized we were on the bed until the moment he broke the kiss, his lips trailing down to my jawline, then my neck, leaving a trail of wet kisses that made me shiver.

He kissed my neck and collarbones with an urgency I couldn’t resist. When he pulled down the left strap of my blouse, a barely audible whisper escaped my lips: "Arjun..."

At the sound of my voice, he paused, stilling with his face buried in my neck. After a moment, he shifted, bringing his lips close to my ear. He kissed the shell of my ear softly before whispering in a husky tone, “Go on a date with me, Firefly.”

His breath was warm against my skin as he added, “And wear the same saree. I want to admire you, to have you all to myself with no interruptions. Please, Firefly,” he pleaded, his voice raw with emotion.

Before I could overthink his words, he gently cupped my face, his eyes meeting mine with a soft intensity. “I just want to have a date with you,” he said, his voice reassuring. “And I promise you’ll enjoy it.”

He paused for a moment, then added with a hopeful smile, “So, is it a yes?”

A smile spread across my face as I replied, “Yes.”

His grin widened at my answer, and he said, “Perfect! We’ll go on our date tomorrow at 7 p.m. So be ready, my wifey.”

Hearing him call me wifey brought a unique kind of happiness, one that warmed my heart in a way I hadn’t felt before.

The next evening, I stood in front of the mirror, smoothing the pleats of the saree Arjun had specifically asked me to wear. It still felt surreal—the way he looked at me, the way he spoke to me with such tenderness. My heart fluttered just thinking about it.

The saree felt different tonight, special in a way it hadn’t before. Its soft fabric clung to me, and the color complemented my complexion perfectly. I carefully pinned the pallu over my shoulder, adding delicate earrings and a thin bracelet. I decided to leave my hair open, letting it cascade down my back.

As I applied a light touch of lipstick, I caught my reflection. There was something different about me—a glow, a spark I hadn’t noticed before. Was this happiness? Or was it because of him?

Just as I finished, there was a knock at the door. My breath hitched.

“Come in,” I called softly, turning toward the door.

Arjun stepped inside, and the moment his eyes landed on me, he stopped. His gaze held mine, intense yet soft, as though he were memorizing every detail.

“You’re beautiful,” he said, his voice low but full of emotion.

“Thank you,” I replied, suddenly shy under his steady gaze.

“Are you ready to go?” he asked, extending his hand.

“Yes,” I said, placing my hand in his. His warmth enveloped me instantly, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

He led me outside, where his car waited. On the passenger seat was a small bouquet of roses and lilies, tied with a satin ribbon.

“For you,” he said with a smile.

“They’re beautiful,” I whispered, taking the bouquet and inhaling its sweet, delicate scent. A warmth spread through me as I realized—I had never received flowers from anyone before. The thought of Arjun choosing them for me made the gesture even more special, filling my heart with an unexpected happiness I hadn’t felt in a long time.

The drive was quiet but comfortable, filled with soft music and occasional glances from him that made my heart race. When we arrived, I couldn’t believe my eyes.

He helped me out of the car, guiding me along a path lined with fairy lights. Each step brought me closer to a magical setup—a small, private garden adorned with lanterns, flickering candles, and delicate flower arrangements. In the center was a table for two, elegantly set with fine china and crystal glasses. The soft melody of a violin played in the background, creating an ambiance straight out of a dream.

“This is… this is stunning,” I managed to say, overwhelmed by the beauty of it all.

“I wanted tonight to be special for you,” he said, pulling out a chair for me.

“It’s more than special,” I said, unable to stop smiling.

The evening unfolded like a fairytale. Each dish he’d chosen was either something I loved or a surprise I didn’t know I needed to try. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and with every passing moment, I found myself falling deeper into the warmth of his presence.

As we finished dessert, he leaned forward slightly, his eyes locking with mine. “Thank you for coming on this date with me. Seeing you happy like this makes everything worth it.”

I felt my cheeks flush. “Thank you, Arjun. I’ve never felt this special in my life.”

And as the night continued, under the canopy of twinkling lights and stars, I realized something—this wasn’t just a date. It was the beginning of something beautiful, something I didn’t want to let go of.

The soft melody of the violin continued to play as we sat at the table, our conversation light and intimate. I couldn’t stop staring at him, the way his eyes sparkled under the glow of the lanterns, the way his smile made my heart skip a beat.

Then he stood, extending a hand toward me. “Dance with me, Firefly?”

I hesitated for a moment, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks, but his inviting smile melted away any reluctance. Placing my hand in his, I allowed him to guide me to a small open space surrounded by fairy lights.

He pulled me close, his hands resting on my waist as I placed mine on his shoulders. The music seemed to fade into the background, replaced by the steady rhythm of my heartbeat.

“You’re incredible,” he whispered, his voice soft yet firm, his breath brushing against my ear.

I looked up at him, meeting his intense gaze, and in that moment, he leaned down, capturing my lips in a kiss. It was gentle at first, a soft brush of his lips against mine, but soon it deepened. His arms tightened around me, pulling me closer, as his lips moved with a hunger that sent shivers down my spine.

His hands began to roam, trailing over my back, my waist, and then sliding up. When his hands cupped my breasts through the fabric of my saree, I let out a soft moan against his lips, my body responding instinctively to his touch. His thumb gently teased me, and I felt my knees weaken as the heat between us intensified.

But before things could go further, I placed my hands on his chest, breaking the kiss with a shaky breath. “Arjun,” I murmured in a tipsy voice, barely able to meet his eyes, “we’re outside...”

His body tensed as realization hit him. He immediately stepped back, running a hand through his hair, his expression torn between guilt and frustration. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice filled with regret. “I shouldn’t have... I lost control. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”

He cursed under his breath, looking away, clearly berating himself.

But I quickly shook my head, stepping closer and placing a hand on his arm. “It’s fine, Arjun,” I said softly, my cheeks burning with a blush I couldn’t hide. “You didn’t make me uncomfortable.”

He looked at me, his eyes searching mine for confirmation. “Are you sure?”

I nodded, biting my lip as I added, “I... I didn’t mind.” My voice was barely above a whisper, but the way his expression softened told me he’d heard every word.

He let out a shaky breath, his hand brushing against my cheek. “You’re too kind to me, Firefly,” he said, his lips curving into a small, grateful smile. “I’ll do better, I promise.”

Arjun’s hand lingered on my cheek, his touch warm and reassuring. I could feel my heart racing, my blush deepening as the intensity of the moment hung between us. He stepped closer again, though still maintaining a respectful distance, his eyes locked on mine.

“If I didn't make you uncomfortable then did you... like it?” he asked softly, his voice laced with curiosity and just a hint of mischief.

I felt the heat rush to my face, my entire body tingling with embarrassment and something else I couldn’t quite name. I couldn’t bring myself to look at him. Instead, I focused on the faint glow of the lanterns behind him, my fingers nervously clutching the edge of my saree.

“I...” My voice caught in my throat as I nodded slowly, unable to meet his gaze.

“Ananya,” he said, his tone playful now, “look at me.”

I shook my head slightly, refusing to lift my eyes. I could feel his smile, even without seeing it.

“You did like it, didn’t you?” he teased, stepping even closer. “You’re blushing so hard right now, Firefly. It’s adorable.”

“Stop it,” I murmured, finally managing to glance at him, though it was brief. My cheeks burned hotter as his chuckle rumbled softly.

“Hey, I’m just asking an honest question,” he said, his mischief evident as he tilted his head. “You can’t blame me for wanting to know if I’m good at making my wife happy.”

His words sent a wave of butterflies through my stomach. I tried to suppress a smile, but it was impossible. “You’re insufferable,” I muttered, still avoiding his eyes.

“And yet, you still nodded,” he pointed out, his grin widening.

I couldn’t help but laugh softly, finally looking at him again. “You’re impossible, Arjun,” I said, shaking my head.

“Impossible?” he repeated, raising an eyebrow. “That’s not what you were thinking a few minutes ago.” His tone was teasing, but his eyes held a warmth that made me feel safe despite his playful banter.

“You’re terrible,” I said, trying to maintain my composure, though my smile betrayed me.

He leaned down slightly, his voice dropping to a gentle murmur. “Terrible at what? Making you blush? Because I’m pretty sure I’ve got that mastered.”

“Arjun!” I exclaimed, swatting his arm as he laughed.

“All right, all right,” he said, raising his hands in surrender, though his smile didn’t fade. “I’ll stop… for now.”

But even as the teasing subsided, the look in his eyes remained—tender, adoring, and filled with a promise of something deeper. And as we stood there, the cool night air around us, I couldn’t deny the truth anymore. Arjun had a way of breaking through my walls and leaving me utterly defenseless—blushing, laughing, and falling for him, moment by moment.

The drive back home was quiet, but it wasn’t the kind of silence that felt heavy or awkward. It was comforting, like the world had paused just for us. I leaned back in my seat, the cool night breeze brushing against my face as I held the bouquet Arjun had given me earlier.

Every now and then, I’d steal a glance at him. His one hand gripped the steering wheel, while his other hand rested on my thigh, his focus on the road, but there was a small, content smile tugging at his lips. It mirrored my own. Tonight had been perfect—more than perfect.

When we reached home, Arjun parked the car and came around to open my door. He extended his hand, and I took it, stepping out slowly. His touch lingered, his thumb gently brushing against my knuckles.

“Thank you for tonight,” I said softly, looking up at him.

He tilted his head, his smile deepening. “Thank you for making it unforgettable.”

We walked inside together, the soft click of the front door closing behind us. The house was quiet, the warmth of the evening still clinging to the air. My heart felt full, and I couldn’t stop replaying the events of the night—the laughter, the teasing, and that kiss.

Arjun walked me to our room, his hand resting lightly on the small of my back. Once inside, I let out a content sigh, placing the bouquet carefully on the dresser. I turned to find him watching me, his expression soft and unreadable.

“What?” I asked, smiling shyly under his gaze.

“Nothing,” he said, his voice low. “You just... you make everything feel right, Ananya.”

His words sent a warm shiver through me, and before I could respond, he closed the distance between us. Wrapping his arms around me, he pulled me into his chest. I rested my head against him, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

We stayed like that for a while, neither of us saying a word. The weight of the day—the joy, the emotions—seemed to settle, leaving only peace.

“Come here,” he murmured, guiding me toward the bed.

I didn’t protest as he pulled back the covers and motioned for me to lie down. He joined me a moment later, wrapping an arm around my waist and pulling me close. We didn't changed our clothes but they were comfortable enough even though I never slept wearing a saree.

“Goodnight, Firefly,” he whispered against my hair, pressing a soft kiss to the top of my head.

“Goodnight, Arjun,” I replied, my voice barely audible.

As I closed my eyes, the warmth of his embrace enveloped me, and for the first time in a long while, I felt completely safe—completely at home. My last thought before sleep claimed me was how lucky I felt to be in his arms, to have this moment, to have him.

And with that, I drifted off, cocooned in his warmth, a soft smile on my lips.

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