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Sorry, everyone. Unexpected guests came over, so the update got delayed.

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In the bustling Malhotra office, the quiet hum of phones ringing and the soft tapping of keyboards filled the air. Vihaan was at meeting room preparing for the meeting and Krishiv was seated behind his sleek mahogany desk, flipping through a stack of documents when Kavya, walked over to the chair opposite him, her usual poise and confidence replaced by a distant look in her eyes. She sat down, her fingers absently tapping on the table, her gaze unfocused as she stared out the window, seemingly lost in thought.

Krishiv, who had been outlining a few key points for the final stages of their project, noticed her distracted state immediately. He raised an eyebrow, watching her for a moment before clearing his throat.

"Final reports ready hui?" he asked, trying to bring her back to the task at hand.

"Yes sir," she replied, her voice distant and monotone, her eyes still not meeting his.

He gave a small sigh, leaning back in his chair, then decided to press on. "Aapne khana banaya?"

"Yes sir," she responded, the same detached tone in her voice, as if she was answering automatically, not really processing what he was saying.

Krishiv watched her closely, frowning slightly, and his frustration began to mount. It was unlike her to be so distracted, especially during a critical time for the project. He tried another approach, his tone now a bit more pointed.

"Dance kiya?" he asked, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he leaned forward.

"Yes sir," she replied without missing a beat, still lost in her own thoughts, her voice flat.

Krishiv paused, staring at her for a second, before letting out a long, exasperated breath. His hands dropped onto the desk, and he facepalmed himself dramatically, unable to hide his disbelief at her responses.

"Bank loota?" he asked, his voice louder now, a clear mix of annoyance and concern.

"Yes sir," she answered, completely oblivious to his growing frustration, her focus still elsewhere.

This time, Krishiv leaned back in his chair, exasperated but trying to suppress a smile. He raised his voice, deciding it was time to snap her out of whatever daze she was in.

"Bulbul ki mummy??" he asked, his voice much louder than before.

Kavya blinked rapidly, snapping out of her trance as her attention suddenly shifted to him. "Huh? Ji?" she asked, her confusion clear.

"Aap sun bhi rahi hain mai keh kya raha hun?" he asked, his voice a mix of irritation and amusement.

She blinked a few more times, her gaze refocusing on him. "Sorry sir... I was a little distracted. Can you repeat?" she asked, finally sounding more like herself, but still apologetic.

Krishiv sat back in his chair, sighing deeply. "Sab thik hai na?" he asked, his tone softening, genuinely concerned now.

"Yes sir," she replied, her voice steady this time, but her eyes still holding a trace of something unspoken.

Krishiv leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowing as he glanced down at the file Kavya had just handed him. His lips tightened into a thin line of frustration as he flipped through the papers quickly. The file was not what he had asked for, and he knew immediately that something was off. He sighed deeply, trying to maintain his composure.

"Leave it, just give me the file," he said, his voice a little sharper than he intended, his patience thinning.

Kavya blinked, her expression momentarily flickering with surprise. "Ohh," she murmured, quickly reaching for the correct file from her bag and handing it over to him.

As she handed him the file, Krishiv's eyes flicked over the pages, his frown deepening. "This is the wrong file. I asked for another one-the one you prepared yesterday," he said, his voice tinged with irritation, as he flipped through the incorrect file with increasing annoyance.

Kavya's eyes widened as she looked at the file in her hand, realizing her mistake. "I'm sorry, sir. I think I forgot it in Vihaan sir's car," she said, a note of genuine remorse in her voice. "I'll get that back for you."

With that, she quickly turned on her heel and left Krishiv's office, her footsteps quick as she hurried to retrieve the missing file.

A few moments later, the door to Krishiv's office opened, and Vihaan entered, his usual easy-going demeanor in place. He paused, noticing the tension in the air.

"Vihaan, Bulbul ki mummy ko kuch hua hai kya?" Krishiv asked without preamble, his voice unusually serious, his gaze fixed on Vihaan as if waiting for an answer.

Vihaan raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued by Krishiv's sudden concern. "Kyun?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine confusion.

"I think there is something wrong," Krishiv said, rubbing his temples. "Kal se pareshan dikh rahi hain. Tum unse close ho na? Toh puch unse. If there's something serious, do tell me." His concern was evident in his tone, as he leaned forward slightly, his eyes fixed on Vihaan, silently urging him to get to the bottom of whatever was going on with Kavya.

Vihaan's expression softened with understanding as he nodded. "Ok, I'll ask her," he said, his voice reassuring, though the hint of worry remained in his gaze. He turned to leave, but before he stepped out, he glanced back at Krishiv, silently acknowledging his concern.

Later that evening, the office hours wrapped up, and Vihaan and Kavya stepped out into the cool evening air. The streets were alive with honking cars and pedestrians, but their car offered a quiet bubble of solitude. They climbed in, and as Vihaan started the engine, he glanced at Kavya, who was staring out of the window, lost in thought. Her silence was heavy, like a storm brewing beneath her calm exterior.

"Kavya," Vihaan began, his voice gentle but firm. "Is everything fine? Krishiv was saying you've seemed upset since yesterday."

Kavya stiffened at the question, her grip tightening on the edge of her bag. She forced a weak smile and nodded quickly. "Y-yes, sir," she stammered, avoiding his gaze. "Everything is fine."

Vihaan frowned, clearly unconvinced. His hands gripped the steering wheel tighter as he parked the car on the side of the road, turning his full attention to her.

"Kavya," he said, his tone softening, "before I'm your boss, I'm like your elder brother. You know that, right? You can tell me what's bothering you."

The words hit Kavya like a gentle wave breaking a dam. Her eyes welled up with unshed tears, and her facade began to crumble. She shook her head, biting her lip to keep herself composed, but the tears betrayed her.

"Sir, it's nothing," she whispered, her voice trembling.

Vihaan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Kavya," he said softly, "you don't have to hide it. If something is troubling you, sharing it might help. I'm here for you."

Finally, in a broken voice, she began, "He... he called me yesterday." Her voice wavered, and she sniffled, unable to meet his gaze.

Vihaan's brows furrowed in concern. "Who called you?" he asked, though a sinking feeling told him he already knew the answer.

"Prakash," she whispered, her voice breaking. Fresh tears streamed down her cheeks as she continued, "He said he'll separate me from Bulbul. He said he'll take her away from me."

Her words came out in a rush, each one heavier than the last. Kavya buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

Vihaan's jaw tightened, anger flashing in his eyes as he said the name aloud. "Prakash?"

She nodded, her voice trembling as she spoke again. "I don't know what to do, sir. I can't live without Bulbul. She's my life... my everything," she cried, clutching the edge of her seat as if bracing for something terrible.

"Shh," Vihaan said softly, leaning closer and gently caressing her head in a reassuring gesture. "Kuch nahi hoga, Kavya. Wo Bulbul ke aas-paas bhi nahi aa payega. I promise you that."

"But... but he has power," she stammered, her voice laced with panic. "He warned me-he said that-"

Vihaan raised his hand gently, stopping her mid-sentence. "Forget what he said," he interrupted firmly. His tone was calm yet filled with determination. "Trust me, Kavya. Nothing will happen to you or Bulbul. I won't let him harm either of you. He won't even come close to her."

His words, though firm, carried a warmth that slowly seeped into her chaotic mind. She looked at him, her teary eyes searching his face for reassurance. He reached into the car's console and retrieved a bottle of water, unscrewing the cap before handing it to her.

"Here, take this," he said, his voice gentler now.

She accepted the bottle with shaky hands, taking a few sips as she tried to calm herself. "Thank you, sir," she whispered, her voice hoarse but filled with sincerity.

"Ab yeh sab chhodiye," he said with a faint smile. "Take a day off tomorrow. Go out, spend time with Bulbul, and enjoy your day. You need it."

Kavya looked up at him, startled. "But sir, the meeting-"

He cut her off with a small wave of his hand. "I'll handle the meeting," he said, his smile growing. "Aap bas jaiye. It's your boss's order."

For the first time in days, a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. She nodded slightly, her voice soft as she replied, "Thank you, sir."

The mehendi function was in full swing. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh henna, laughter, and the lively beats of dhol music. Women sat in groups, chatting and giggling, while expert mehendi artists skillfully adorned their hands. Children ran around, stealing sweets from the snack table.

Amrit sat on a cushion, admiring the intricate design being drawn on her hand.

"Amrit, mehendi lag gayi hogi na?" Pratibha asked, her voice cutting through the lively chatter.

"Ji, maasi," Amrit replied with a smile, holding up her hands carefully so the drying mehendi wouldn't smudge.

"Achha, toh jaa. Damad ji bula rahe tujhe," Pratibha said with a knowing smile.

Amrit's eyes widened slightly. "Akshat? Woh mujhe kyun bula rahe hain?" she asked, her cheeks turning a shade darker.

"Kyun ki unka haq hai tujhe bulane ka!" Pratibha teased, winking. "Waise lagta hai kuch zaruri baat karni hai. Chal, ab jaa, warna unhe bura lag jayega."

Amrit nodded, feeling her heart race a little. "Ji, maasi," she said softly, standing up with care to ensure she didn't ruin her mehendi.

She stepped inside, the faint scent of Akshat's cologne lingering in the air. The room was dimly lit, with the soft glow of fairy lights from outside filtering in. She glanced around, but there was no sign of him.

"Akshat Kahan Hain aap?" She said.

Hearing no response, she took a step further inside, her eyes scanning the room. Suddenly, the bathroom door opened, and Akshat walked out, rubbing his wet hair with a towel. He was wearing a white kurta, the fabric clinging slightly to his damp skin. Lost in thought, he didn't notice her at first.

Water droplets glistened on his forehead, catching the faint golden light in the room. His white kurta clung to him, slightly creased from the moisture, and he hadn't noticed her yet.

Amrit instinctively stepped back, her heart racing. But in her attempt to avoid him, her foot caught on the edge of the rug, and she stumbled. A gasp escaped her lips as her balance faltered.

In an instant, Akshat's reflexes kicked in. He moved toward her, his strong arm circling her waist as he pulled her to him. The sudden closeness left her breathless, her hands frozen mid-air, careful to protect her mehndi.

Their bodies pressed together, and time seemed to pause. Amrit's chest rose and fell against his as she steadied herself, her wide eyes meeting his. Akshat's gaze softened, a mix of concern and something unspoken flickering in his dark eyes.

Her breath hitched as she noticed how close their faces were, the warmth of his presence enveloping her. Akshat's hand remained firm on her waist, his fingers resting lightly against the fabric of her lehenga. He made no move to let go, his eyes locked with hers in an unbreakable connection.

The soft glow of the candles danced across their faces, illuminating every detail-the slight curve of his lips, the intensity in his eyes, and the faint flush creeping up her cheeks. Amrit felt her heart thudding in her chest, unsure if it was the result of the near-fall or the way Akshat was looking at her.

Amrit's fingers curled slightly, her mehndi untouched but forgotten in the moment. Akshat's grip on her waist softened, his hand sliding away slowly, as if reluctant to let her go.

She took a small step back, her cheeks warm, her gaze darting away from his. But the moment lingered, the silence heavy with emotions neither of them could name. Akshat straightened, his expression unreadable, though his eyes still held a trace of the vulnerability she had seen.

The mehndi function was in full swing, with vibrant laughter and music echoing throughout the house. The men sat in the hall, clearly outnumbered by the enthusiastic women. The air was lively, and everyone was in a playful mood.

Vinay, Amrit's brother-in-law, leaned back, crossing his arms. "Par hame toh mehndi ke function mein allow hi nahi tha na?"

Amaira grinned mischievously as she approached. "Haan, nahi tha. Lekin ek game rakha gaya hai entertainment ke liye, aur uske liye aap mardon ka hona zaroori hai."

Akshat, curious but wary, asked, "Kaisa game?"

Aditi stepped forward, holding a mischievous smile. "Game yeh hai ki aap sab apni apni wife ke haath par apne naam ke first letter ko dhoondenge. Lekin mehndi mein woh naam iss tarah likha gaya hai ki dhoondhna asaan nahi hoga. Sabko sirf 5-5 minute milenge."

The men exchanged hesitant glances, but the women were already brimming with excitement.

"Sabse pehle Vinay jiju aap!" Amaira declared, pulling him up despite his protests.

One by one, the husbands began searching for their initials on their wives' hands, some succeeding within the given time and others failing hilariously. The room was filled with laughter and cheers as the timer ran out for each participant.

Finally, it was Akshat's turn.

"Ab hamare naye-navele, sabse sharmile jiju ki baari," Amaira teased, grabbing Akshat's arm and pulling him toward Amrit. "Hamare Akshat jijaji!"

Akshat looked a little nervous but composed himself as Aditi announced, "Your time starts now!"

He knelt slightly to examine Amrit's hands carefully, his focus unwavering. The intricate designs made the task challenging, but Akshat's concentration didn't falter.

"Jiju, ek minute ho gaya!" Aditi called out, her voice playful.

Amrit, feeling a little bad for him, tried to secretly indicate where the letter was by moving her finger slightly. But before she could help, Akshat gently held her finger to stop her.

"Nahi, Amrit... main cheating se nahi, loyalty se jeetna chahta hoon-specially in your case," he said softly, his voice low and firm.

Amrit's cheeks flushed, and she smiled shyly, her heart fluttering at his words.

Finally, Akshat's face lit up as he exclaimed, "Mil gaya!" He pointed to a small "A" tucked discreetly in the design on her palm.

Everyone cheered and clapped, and Amaira announced, "Toh iss round ke winner hain hamare shy jiju!" The room erupted in laughter and applause as Akshat smiled modestly, glancing at Amrit, who looked equally delighted.

As the clapping died down, Amaira stepped forward with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Ab hoga second round! Is round mein sab aadmi log ki aankhon par patti bandhi jayegi, aur unhe apni wife ka makeup karna hoga-cream, powder, lipstick, aur kajal lagakar. Bas itna hi! Pura makeup karne lage toh patti kholte hi darr ke bhaag jayenge!"

The room exploded with laughter.

Pratibha, one of the elders, waved her hand dismissively. "Arre, yeh nahi chalega! Hame joker nahi banana hai!"

Aditi giggled, insisting, "Arre, maasi, maza aayega! Sirf ek round hi toh hai."

The men reluctantly agreed, and the women gleefully blindfolded their partners. Akshat sat on the chair, allowing Amrit to tie the blindfold over his eyes. As her fingers brushed his hair slightly, a nervous thrill ran through her.

The room was filled with laughter and chatter as the men were blindfolded for the makeup game. Akshat sat still on the chair, his eyes covered with a soft cloth, while Amrit stood in front of him, her cheeks already slightly pink from anticipation.

"Chaliye, Akshat jiju ki baari!" Aditi announced with enthusiasm.

The women giggled, and the men teased Akshat as he reached out cautiously to find the items placed on the table. Amrit stood silently, watching him with a mix of amusement and nervousness.

His fingers brushed against the cream jar first. Picking it up, he fumbled slightly, trying to figure out how to open it without being able to see. Amrit bit her lip to stop from laughing, her heart warming at his careful efforts.

Finally, he dipped his fingers into the cream and hesitated, holding his hand in the air. "Amrit?" he asked softly, his voice unsure.

Amrit stepped closer, and his fingertips brushed against her cheek. The touch was light, almost hesitant, as if he was afraid of hurting her. Slowly, he smoothed the cream onto her cheeks, his fingers lingering slightly longer than necessary. His touch was gentle, almost tender, as he carefully blended the cream across her skin.

The room fell quieter as everyone watched the scene unfold. There was an unspoken intimacy in the way Akshat moved, his blindfolded state making each touch more deliberate, more meaningful.

Next, he reached for the powder. His fingers grazed her chin as he lightly patted it onto her cheeks and forehead, his movements careful and precise. Amrit's breath hitched slightly when his hand accidentally brushed against her nose, leaving a faint dusting of powder there. She resisted the urge to giggle, feeling a strange warmth spread through her chest.

Then came the lipstick. Akshat's hand moved tentatively, feeling for the tube. His fingers lightly grazed her lips as he tried to apply it. The closeness made Amrit's heartbeat quicken. She closed her eyes instinctively, and for a moment, everything around them seemed to fade away. His hand trembled slightly as he carefully applied the lipstick, ensuring it stayed within the contours of her lips.

Finally, Akshat reached for the kajal. His fingers found her face again, softly trailing along her temple until they reached her eyes.

Amrit obeyed, her lashes fluttering shut as he delicately traced the kajal along her eyes. The softness of his touch sent a shiver down her spine. She could feel the warmth of his breath as he leaned closer, his concentration palpable even with the blindfold.

When he finished, Akshat let out a small sigh of relief, pulling back slightly. "Ho gaya, I think," he said with a nervous smile.

The room erupted into applause and laughter as Amrit turned to look in the mirror. Her reflection revealed a nearly flawless application of makeup, and she couldn't help but smile. Her cheeks were glowing-not just from the makeup but from the emotions swirling in her chest.

Akshat removed his blindfold, blinking as his eyes adjusted to the light. His gaze immediately went to Amrit, and for a moment, he froze. Her soft smile, the faint blush on her cheeks, and the way her eyes sparkled under the kajal-all of it left him momentarily speechless.

Amrit met his gaze, and the world seemed to slow down. There was no teasing, no laughter-just the two of them, caught in a moment that felt far too intimate for the crowded room around them. Her heart raced as Akshat's eyes softened, a flicker of admiration passing through them.

The spell broke when Aditi clapped loudly. "Aur iss round ke clear winner hain , Akshat jiju! Wah, kya baat hai!"

The room erupted in cheers, but Akshat and Amrit were still caught in their own little world. Amrit's cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red as she lowered her gaze, unable to meet his intense stare anymore.

Akshat smiled faintly, his lips curving in satisfaction.

It was a quiet, almost peaceful night as Vedant drove through the dimly lit streets, the hum of the engine filling the silence around him. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, his hands firmly gripping the steering wheel as he navigated the road. The cool night breeze barely brushed through the open windows, offering some respite from the heat of the day.

As he approached a turn, his eyes caught sight of a figure standing by the side of the road. The person was waving their hand, trying to get his attention. Vedant blinked, his thoughts still muddled. He shook his head slightly, trying to clear the fog in his mind. With a deep sigh, he pushed his foot down on the gas pedal, the car speeding up, leaving the person behind.

Behind him, Nandini stood with her hand still raised, watching the car drive away. Her mouth fell open, a look of disbelief on her face. She muttered under her breath in frustration.

"Ye kya batmeezi thi??" she exclaimed, her voice laced with annoyance. Her eyes narrowed as she quickly fumbled for her phone in her bag, hitting the call button with a sharp tap.

The phone rang only once before Vedant's voice came through the line, calm yet a bit distracted. "Haan?"

"Haan kya?" Nandini shot back, her voice full of sarcasm. "Chashme ka number badh gaya hai kya? I was asking for a lift, dikhayi nahi diya?" she continued, irritation bubbling in her tone.

Vedant, who had been concentrating on the road, blinked in confusion. His foot hovered momentarily over the brake. "Wo sach me tum thi?" he asked, his voice a bit incredulous, still not fully processing the situation.

"Nahi meri judwa behen thi," Nandini quipped, her annoyance evident in her sharp tone.

Vedant raised his eyebrows, still trying to make sense of the exchange. "Tumhari judwa behen bhi hai? Bataya nahi kabhi?" His voice carried a hint of confusion, his mind trying to catch up with her teasing remark.

"Hey bhagwan!!" Nandini exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "Kuch nahi, rukiye wahin!" She shook her head, muttering to herself as she marched over to his car, her footsteps quick and purposeful. She reached the car, knocked on the window, and Vedant rolled it down slowly, still a little bewildered.

He gestured to the passenger seat, his face showing a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Come on, sit," he said.

As the car cruised smoothly along the road, Vedant cast a quick glance at Nandini. He hesitated for a moment before breaking the silence. "I'm sorry," he said, his tone genuine. "I thought I was just imagining things when I saw you waving."

Nandini raised an eyebrow and turned to face him, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Aap kya pure din mujhe imagine kar rahe the?" she asked, her teasing tone catching him off guard.

Vedant's eyes widened as her words sank in. His grip on the steering wheel tightened, and he sputtered in disbelief. "WHAT!! NO WAY! WHY WOULD I??" His voice shot up, louder than he intended.

Nandini held up her hands in mock surrender, clearly enjoying his flustered state. "Okk okk, why are you shouting?" she said, biting back a laugh.

He shook his head, muttering under his breath, and focused on the road again. His ears burned slightly from embarrassment, but he chose to let it go.

A moment of silence passed before Nandini broke it with a dramatic sigh. "Bhukh lagi hai yaar! Ghar jaake khana banana padega," she whined, leaning her head against the seat like a tired child.

Vedant smirked slightly at her antics, his lips twitching with amusement. Without thinking, he blurted out, "You can eat me."

The words hung in the air for a moment before Nandini's head snapped toward him, her eyes wide with shock. "Kyaaaa??" she exclaimed, her voice filled with incredulity.

Realizing what he had just said, Vedant nearly slammed the brakes out of sheer panic. "No, no, I didn't mean it like that!" he stammered, his face turning red as he waved his free hand defensively. "I mean my house! I mean you can eat at my house!"

Nandini shook her head, a mischievous grin tugging at her lips. "Aap apne words ka dhyan rakha kariye, doctor saab. Otherwise, log galat matlab nikal lenge," she teased, trying to suppress her laughter.

Before Vedant could reply, Nandini's phone buzzed, and she picked it up. Glancing at the screen, she smiled and answered cheerfully, "Haan, Preetu darling?"

Preeti's voice came through on the other end, slightly rushed but warm. "Nandu baby, tumne dinner bana liya ho toh Vedant se keh dena ki wo wahin dinner kar le. Actually, mujhe Vikram ke sath ek business party me jana hai aur usne abhi bataya. I'll inform Vedant myself too," Preeti said, her words spilling out quickly.

Nandini grinned and replied, "He's with me right now, Preetu. And don't worry, we'll sort dinner ourselves. Tum party enjoy karo. Bas kuch sexy si dress pehen ke bahot sari pictures click kar ke bhejna!"

Preeti laughed lightly on the other end. "Tumhara bas chale toh mujhe har event ke liye photoshoot karwa do. But fine, I'll send you pictures later. Bye, sweetheart."

"Bye, darling!" Nandini chirped before hanging up.

As they pulled up to a stoplight, Nandini turned to Vedant with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Ab?" she asked, her tone casual, but her words hanging in the air like an invitation for his next suggestion.

Vedant, who had been pondering over their dinner situation, spoke up without hesitation. "Mai kuch bana dun..." He started, but before he could even finish the sentence, Nandini's voice rang out sharply.

"Door rehna kitchen se!!" she said, practically glaring at him as if she had just witnessed a crime in the making.

Vedant blinked, taken aback for a moment by her sudden outburst. "Arre, I will do better..." he started again, but Nandini was already shaking her head vigorously.

"No thanks, I love my life," she said with a dramatic flourish, as if he had just proposed a life-threatening challenge. Her words made Vedant chuckle, and he couldn't help but roll his eyes at her over-the-top reaction.

"Alright, fine. We'll go to a restaurant then," he said, his voice giving in to her resistance. But there was no annoyance in his tone, only a playful acceptance of her stubbornness.

Nandini leaned back in her seat, her fingers tapping against the window as she thought for a moment. "I know a place...chaliye, mai direction batati hun," she said, her voice now soft, filled with a sense of familiarity, like she had been to this place many times before.

As the car rolled to a stop in front of the dimly lit Punjabi dhaba, Vedant couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the sight of it. The place looked humble, with bright fluorescent lights illuminating the sign and a few trucks parked outside. It wasn't exactly the kind of high-end place he was accustomed to. He looked at it with a slight frown, then turned to Nandini.

"Yahan?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief, as his gaze swept over the small, rustic setup, his words dripping with a judgment he didn't quite mean but couldn't hide.

Nandini, who had been looking forward to the meal, immediately caught his tone and narrowed her eyes. She straightened up, her posture turning defensive as she crossed her arms. "Kyun? Is there any problem??" she asked, her voice rising slightly. "Do you want to say that it's not up to your standards?" she continued, her sarcasm evident. "Then I must be of low standard according to you. Toh aapko bezzati ho rahi hogi mere sath baithe ki isliye mujhe jana chahiye."

Vedant, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone, threw his hands up in surrender. "Arre! Hadd hai, maine kaha kya kuch? Khud hi sara assumption nikal diya," he said, his eyes widening in confusion, realizing how his words had been misinterpreted.

Nandini shook her head, exaggerating his earlier words with her perfect imitation of his tone. "Matlab toh wahi tha. Aapne kahan 'YAHAN??'" she said, stretching out the word, her voice rising high.

Vedant groaned inwardly, but tried to explain himself. "I just said 'yahan?' Casually pucha maine," he insisted, his hands spread out in a gesture of innocence.

"No, you said 'YAHANNNN??'" Nandini insisted, leaning closer to mimic the exaggerated way he had said it. "Causally bolna hota toh bolte 'Ohh yahan.' but aapne kaha 'YAHAAANNNN??'" she said, her voice rising in mock astonishment, eyes wide with playful accusation.

Vedant's face turned red, a mixture of embarrassment and frustration building up. "Bas karo meri maa!!" he exclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air. "I am sorry, okay? Ab chalen?" he said, giving in, clearly exasperated.

Nandini crossed her arms again, maintaining a straight face. "Hmm... but if you think it's not up to your standards then-" she began again, only to be cut off by Vedant before she could finish her sentence.

"Maine kaha aisa kuch?" Vedant interjected, his tone suddenly more serious. "Chalna hai toh chalo, varna mai khud bana ke khilaunga." His words were firm.

The scene unfolded with Nandini and Vedant settling into the cozy yet chaotic atmosphere of the Punjabi dhaba, a far cry from the polished restaurants Vedant was used to. The couple who had greeted them earlier was now seated at a nearby table, still chatting happily. The lady, with a knowing smile, leaned toward Nandini and whispered, "Bada ajeeb munda hai. Arre tujhe kahan se mil gaya!" The words, full of teasing and curiosity, made Nandini bite back a laugh, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

Vedant, on the other hand, looked more exhausted than ever, his brow furrowed in disbelief at the turn his evening had taken. He was still trying to figure out if he was the joke or just the victim of an elaborate prank.

Just then, the food arrived, and the table was suddenly overwhelmed with a mountain of delicious, aromatic dishes. The fragrant wafts of daal makhni, paneer butter masala, naan, roti, and the irresistible lacche parathe filled the air. Vedant's expression shifted quickly from surprise to mild shock, his nose scrunching up as he took in the sheer volume of food.

Nandini, noticing his expression, leaned forward and tilted her head, concern furrowing her brow. "Kya hua?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

Vedant blinked, his face shifting awkwardly as he scrambled for a response. "Huh... nothing. Mai handwash kar ke aata hu," he muttered quickly, trying to make a quick escape.

Nandini, not letting him off so easily, immediately raised her voice in a loud, clear call, "Suniye paji, inke hath dhula dijiye," as if to make sure the entire dhaba heard her.

A few seconds later, the same Punjabi man with the towel around his neck appeared again, carrying a small jug of water in his hand. "Lijiye," he said, offering the jug with a bright smile, as if it was the most natural thing to do.

Vedant, feeling both surprised and slightly uncomfortable, hesitated for a moment before asking, "Yahi pe dhona hai?"

The man, never missing a beat, grinned widely, his voice playful yet matter-of-fact. "Yahan nahi toh kya, Chandigarh jaa ke dhuloge?"

Vedant shook his head in resignation, a slight blush creeping up his neck. "No, it's fine," he muttered, quickly washing his hands, trying not to look too flustered.

Meanwhile, Nandini was already digging into her food, thoroughly enjoying the spread before her. She savored the first bite of daal makhni with a contented hum, clearly in her element. Vedant, now back at the table, watched her for a moment, trying to ignore the slightly unsanitary atmosphere. But just then, his eyes caught the sight of another man who was serving water to a nearby table-his fingers casually dipping into the glass as he poured.

A look of disgust flashed across Vedant's face, and he quickly averted his gaze. He looked around the bustling dhaba, trying to find something to focus on that wouldn't make him question his life choices. But then, as if on cue, a man sitting nearby let out a loud burp that echoed across the small space. Vedant flinched, his face scrunching in pure discomfort.

"Arre khaiye na," Nandini said, noticing his hesitation, her tone light but encouraging.

"Haan," Vedant muttered, trying to mask his discomfort as he picked up his spoon and began eating, though his mind was clearly elsewhere.

As the evening continued, Nandini gradually slowed her eating, as she looked at Vedant, who was still in the middle of his meal. "Aapko jyada bhukh lagi hogi na? Toh ye sab aap kha lijiye ab," she said, her tone sheepish as she nudged the platter of food closer to him.

Vedant, mid-bite, raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting between her and the abundant food now piled on the table. "Ho gaya na? Kya keh rahi thi? I don't like wasting food! Ab iska kya hoga jo maga liya hai Ravan jaise?" His voice was full of disbelief as he stared at the mountain of food she had ordered.

Nandini's face flushed slightly with embarrassment, but she couldn't help the sheepish smile that curled on her lips.

Vedant shook his head, trying to suppress a smile. "Please aap khatam kar dijiye, mujhe ulti ho jayegi," she added, her tone half-laying back on the cot, exaggeratedly clutching her stomach as if she was about to burst from all the food. Her eyes twinkled, but Vedant wasn't sure if she was being serious or just joking around.

He let out an exasperated sigh but couldn't help but continue eating.

It wasn't long before he had finished, pushing the empty plates aside. Nandini, who had already started to get antsy, suddenly perked up at the sound of drums beating in the distance. The sound filled the air, and Vedant glanced around as the noise grew louder, growing curious.

Before he could even register what was happening, a group of lively people entered the dhaba, carrying large drums and shaking them with an infectious energy. The beats echoed in the open space, and as if on cue, the crowd around them started jumping to their feet, moving to the pulse of the music, performing bhangra.

Nandini's eyes sparkled with excitement. She glanced at Vedant, her lips curling into a mischievous smile. "Aaiye na bhangra karen," she urged, her tone light and playful, as she extended a hand toward him.

Vedant, who was still processing the scene, blinked a few times before shaking his head vehemently. "Kya? No thanks," he replied, already anticipating her pushback.

Nandini wasn't having it. With a determined grin, she reached out, grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the dance floor, her movements smooth and confident. "Bahot nakhre hain aapke bhi," she teased, her eyes laughing as she managed to drag him onto his feet despite his resistance.

Nandini spun around joyfully, her laughter echoing in the night air, Vedant stood at the edge of the crowd, his gaze fixed on her. He watched her dance, her movements free and unrestrained, her face glowing with happiness. A soft smile tugged at the corner of his lips, and for a brief moment, he forgot everything around him.

He stood there, frozen for a second, taking it all in. Would I ever have come to a place like this with anyone else? Would I have ever let go of my usual reserved self, danced like a fool, and had so much fun? His heart raced a little faster, the realization slowly dawning on him.

How is it like to fall in love?

Every time she walked into his house to meet his mother, he found himself waiting for her. He'd act like he didn't care, rolling his eyes, pretending to be irritated by her presence, but deep down, his heart would always race when he saw her. It wasn't just that he enjoyed her company-he craved it.

Is this the moment?

He swallowed hard, a lump forming in his throat.

I love her. I love her.

The truth had been right there in front of him, staring him in the face for so long, and yet he had spent so much time running from it. Denying it. Pretending he wasn't drawn to her, pretending he didn't feel the sharp pangs of longing when she wasn't around.

OH GODD!! I LOVE HER, I LOVE HER, I LOVE HER!!!

His heart skipped a beat as his chest expanded with the admission. The feeling was so raw, so real, that it left him breathless. He couldn't deny it any longer. The walls he had built to keep her out, the walls he had built to protect himself from the vulnerability of love, were crumbling around him, piece by piece. And in the silence of his own mind, there was no more running.

He let out a soft sigh as he looked at her, still dancing with her carefree joy, her laughter blending with the music. For the first time, he didn't feel the need to hold back. He didn't feel the need to deny what he felt for her. It wasn't something that could be contained anymore. It was a part of him, as natural as the air he breathed.

I love her.

The realization hit him like a wave crashing against the shore, the truth finally settling into his chest. And for the first time in a long time, he allowed himself to feel that warmth spread through him, without the fear, without the walls. Because in this moment, he realized that loving her wasn't something to be afraid of-it was something to embrace.

Before he even realized what was happening, his feet began to move, swaying with the beat of the music. His eyes never left Nandini as she danced a few steps away from him. And, as if by instinct, he joined in, his body following her rhythm. She laughed when she saw him, a teasing glint in her eyes, and he couldn't help but laugh with her. It felt so natural, so right, to be here with her, sharing this simple joy.

He moved clumsily at first, but as Nandini smiled encouragingly, he relaxed into it, the music and her laughter guiding his steps. His smile broadened as he matched her beat, and for the first time in what felt like forever, he didn't care about being perfect. He was just enjoying the moment, enjoying her.

When the music finally began to slow and the crowd started to dissipate, Nandini, still grinning ear to ear, turned to him, her breath heavy but her face full of exhilaration. "Maza aaya na?" she asked, her voice full of excitement.

He nodded, his smile wide, and for the first time in a long while, he wasn't hiding behind his usual reserved mask. "Maza aaya," he said, his voice soft but sincere, the words flowing with warmth that he didn't even know he had in him.

But before she could head back to the seat, Vedant surprised her. He rushed ahead, opening the car door for her, a small, yet meaningful gesture that made Nandini stop in her tracks for a moment. She raised an eyebrow, confused by his sudden politeness, but shrugged it off and sat inside, settling into the seat.

As she did, Vedant couldn't wipe the grin off his face. He slid into the driver's seat beside her, still feeling like he was in a dream, his heart light, and his mind racing. He couldn't help but steal a glance at her every few seconds, his gaze lingering just a bit longer each time. His smile was almost foolish, but he didn't care. He had never felt more alive, more himself, than in this very moment, with her beside him.

As the elevator doors closed behind them, the familiar hum of the elevator ride echoed softly. They both stood silently, the brief yet electric connection from the night still hanging between them, like a silent promise. When the elevator came to a halt, they stepped out and stood in front of their respective apartments, the hallway feeling strangely intimate in the quietness of the night.

"Good night," Nandini said, breaking the silence with her usual light-hearted tone. She flashed him a smile, her eyes sparkling as she turned to face her door.

"Good night, Nandini," Vedant replied, his voice steady, but there was a warmth there that hadn't been there before. A warmth that only came from being around her. He watched as she unlocked her door, her back slightly turned to him as she stepped inside.

For a moment, he just stood there, a small grin creeping across his face.

As Nandini disappeared inside her apartment, Vedant took a deep breath, his heart still racing from the excitement. He couldn't help the smile that spread across his face, a grin that tugged at his lips with a force he couldn't control. The feeling of happiness, of contentment, settled in his chest.

Without thinking, he twirled on one leg, his face lighting up with an unrestrained joy.

Biting his lip, still grinning like a fool, Vedant entered his own apartment. The door clicked shut behind him, but the smile didn't leave his face. He walked in, his steps light and his heart even lighter, as if everything had shifted in the most unexpected yet perfect way.

He felt as though his entire world had just been flipped upside down in the best way possible. And it was all because of her.

The Sangeet function had begun, and everyone was gathered in the grand hall of the palace, the air filled with music and excitement. Akshat scanned the room, looking for Amrit, but she was nowhere to be found.

He turned to Amaira, who was nearby. "Amaira... Amrit kahaan hai?" he asked, his tone filled with a hint of concern.

Amaira smiled and replied, "Amrit didi thodi der mein aa jayengi. Unki blouse thodi late aayi thi, tailor ke paas se, isliye time laga. Wo abhi ready ho rahi hain."

Akshat nodded, a look of understanding crossing his face. "Oh, thank you," he said gratefully.

Just then, Amaira's voice rang out again, this time with excitement. "Didi aa gayi!"

Akshat turned around, and there she was Amrit, walking into the hall, looking as stunning as ever, her lavender lehenga shimmering under the soft lights. The intricate floral embroidery on the fabric highlighted her elegance, while the sheer dupatta draped over her shoulder added a delicate charm. Her brown skin glowed naturally, enhanced by light makeup, a soft blush, subtle eyeliner, and pink lips that gave her a fresh, radiant look. Her hair was styled in a loose bun, with a few soft curls framing her face, and her statement jewelry, a dazzling maang tikka, a heavy choker necklace, and matching earrings, completed her regal appearance. Full-hand bangles jingled with every step, drawing attention to her beautifully hennaed hands, a clear mark of her newlywed status.

As Amrit walked down, Akshat stood rooted to his spot, completely mesmerized. His eyes followed her every step, unable to look away. A soft smile tugged at his lips, refusing to fade, as if it had found a permanent place there. He watched her with a mix of admiration and awe, his heart skipping a beat with every graceful movement she made.

Even when she reached the bottom of the stairs, Akshat's gaze lingered on her, his smile deepening as their eyes met briefly. There was something about the way she carried herself, a combination of elegance and warmth, that left him utterly captivated.

"Uhhhh uhhhh." Amaira cleared her throat ."Aap dono ka nain matakka ho gaya ho to chaliye function start hone wala hai." She added.

"Jada bol mat." Amrit said and went with Amaira Akshat smiled and went behind her.

Everyone took their seats. The stage is beautifully decorated, and the lights dim. Amaira and Aditi enter gracefully, wearing elegant traditional outfits. The audience cheers as the spotlight falls on them.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen!" Amaira said.

"And a very warm welcome to this wonderful night of music, dance, and endless celebrations - the Sangeet Ceremony of Namit and Trisha!" Aditi said

"Exactly, Aditi! Tonight isn't just a night; it's an emotion. It's a blend of laughter, joy, and, of course, some amazing performances that will keep us all entertained!" Amaira said .

Audience claps and cheers.

"Now, Aditi, what's a Sangeet without some rocking performances? Shall we start the evening with a bang?" Amaira said

"Why not! But wait, Amaira. Let's test the energy levels of this crowd first. Everyone, let's make some noise! If you're excited for tonight, scream as loud as you can!" Aditi said .

Audience responds enthusiastically.

"That's the spirit! And to kick off this magical evening, we have a special performance by Bride's cousin and groom's cousin. They're here to set the stage on fire with their energetic dance moves!" Amaira said.

"So, put your hands together for them as they take us on a musical journey of love and celebration!"Aditi said.

The first performance begins. Amaira and Aditi return to the stage after the act.

After 4-5 performances, the excitement in the air was palpable as everyone cheered and clapped. Amaira, with a mischievous smile, stood at the front of the stage, ready to announce the next activity.

"So guys, now we're going to play a game!" Amaira announced, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. "Toh, sabhi couples, aap log ko cloth folding dance ke baare mein pata hi hoga, right?"

Aditi, standing beside her, took over the explanation. "We will play the music, and each couple will dance on a piece of cloth. When the music stops, they must fold the cloth and continue dancing on it. This will keep going until the cloth is folded for the last time, and the couple who manages to dance on the smallest piece of cloth until the end will be the winner. But remember, the couple whose feet step off the cloth will be out."

Amrit looked at Akshat, her eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Aap karenge?" she asked softly. "Agar aap comfortable na ho, toh it's okay," she added, showing concern.

Akshat smiled warmly, reassuring her. "Amrit, maine kab kaha aisa? Aur waise bhi, tumhari cousin ki shaadi hai, toh main chahta hoon ki tum har function ko achhe se enjoy karo," he said, his voice full of affection.

Amaira, who had been eagerly waiting for them to join, couldn't resist adding, "Didi, jiju, aap log bhi aao na! Baat hi karte reh jaoge kya?" She chuckled, urging them to join the fun.

Amrit and Akshat exchanged a smile before heading toward the stage.

On stage, the men placed the piece of cloth on the floor, and the couples stepped onto it, ready to take part in the dance. The music began to play, and everyone started moving to the rhythm, their feet tapping and bodies swaying.

"Jism se rooh tak, hai tumhare nishaan"

Akshat starts by holding Amrit's hand, gently twirling her in a slow circle. As he spins her, he gazes into her eyes, his face filled with affection.

Amrit softly places her hand on his chest, moving close as they sway to the rhythm of the music. Their movements are synchronized, reflecting the emotional bond they share.

"Bann gaye tum meri zindagi"

Akshat takes a step back, then gently pulls Amrit back into his arms. He lifts her hand and holds it above her head, guiding her to turn in a smooth arc, showcasing trust.

"Jab se tum ho mile, jaan o dil hain khile"

Akshat lifts Amrit slightly off the ground for a brief moment, then places her down delicately, emphasizing the tenderness in the lyrics.

Both sway, letting their bodies flow with the music, staying close and in sync with each other's movements.

Everyone folds the paper one more time.

Chorus: "Tum ho mera pyar, tumse hai qaraar"

Akshat and Amrit face each other and engage in a slow, intimate waltz. As they move together, Akshat gently places his hand on Amrit's waist, over her duppata , carefully not touching her bare waist guiding her in slow, graceful steps, as she follows him, resting her hand on his shoulder.

Amrit then steps back and spins gracefully in place, with Akshat catching her gently before she falls into his embrace.

"Tumko hi basaaya maine yaadon mein"

Amrit holds her hands up as if she's offering her heart, moving closer to Akshat, who places a hand on her cheek. They share a brief, tender moment.

Couples folds the paper again.

"Jab mile nahin thhe tum

Na thi khushiyan na gam

Tum mile toh badle zindagi ke yeh mausam"

Akshat and Amrit move together in slow motion, with Akshat offering his hand to Amrit as she steps toward him. They sway as he leads her in a soft, circular motion.

As they move, Akshat gently places his hand on her back, supporting her with grace. Amrit moves in perfect sync with him, leaning into his touch.

They folded the paper one more time.

"Ho sunn raha hai jo dua

Mera rab hai tujh mein

Har jagah tha kuch kam

Mila mujhe sab tujh mein

They perform a small lift where Akshat gently lifts Amrit by the waist and spins her, catching her in a close embrace again, the movement symbolizing trust and devotion.

They folded the paper a second last time. Females stand on their partner's feet for support. Some partners lose their balance and get out of the game. Only Aakshat Amrit and Namit Trisha were left.

"Raat din dekhna tujhko aadat meri

Ab tujhe chahna hai ibadat meri

Yun tujhe chaahana hai ibaadat meri,"

Akshat and Amrit share a moment of stillness, gazing into each other's eyes, swaying slowly to the rhythm.

For the last time Akshat and Namit fold the paper. Namit picked up Trisha in his arms and spin her around. But Akshat lifts Amrit from her armpits.

Tum ho mera pyar, tumse hai qaraar

Tumko hi basaaya maine yaadon mein

Tumse hai nashaa, tumse hai khumaar

Tumko hi sajaya maine khwaabon mein

Namit lost his balance, and his legs slipped out from beneath the piece of cloth he was standing on.

In the final step of the dance, Akshat lifted Amrit by her armpits, their movements synchronized and graceful, as the music slowly faded. But even as the last notes echoed away, neither of them moved. They remained frozen in place, lost in the depth of each other's eyes, their breath soft but steady. The world around them seemed to blur, leaving only the two of them in a quiet moment of connection, a silent understanding passing between them. Time stood still for those few seconds, where words were unnecessary, and the closeness they shared spoke louder than anything else.

The hall lights suddenly brightened, and everyone erupted into applause. Akshat gently placed Amrit back on the stage, ensuring she was steady and safe before stepping back with a smile, acknowledging the crowd's admiration.

The auditorium buzzed with energy as the final performance of the evening began. Amrit and Trisha took the stage, their coordinated moves and vibrant expressions captivating everyone. Akshat, seated in the audience, held his phone up to record Amrit. His gaze was fixed on her, his admiration evident in the soft smile playing on his lips. She moved with such grace and confidence that it was impossible to look away.

Suddenly, amidst the fluidity of the performance, Akshat's sharp eyes noticed something alarming-the dori of her blouse had come undone. His heart skipped a beat as he saw the fabric loosening. Without a second thought, he grabbed a tablecloth from a nearby table and rushed towards the stage.

In one swift motion, he wrapped the cloth around her shoulders from behind, his arms forming a protective shield around her. The crowd murmured in confusion, but Akshat didn't care. His priority was her dignity.

"Chalo," he whispered softly in her ear, his voice calm yet firm. He guided her off the stage, keeping the cloth securely wrapped around her, his arms still holding her protectively.

Amrit, too shocked to react, let him lead her to a nearby room. Her face burned with embarrassment, and as soon as they were inside, she sat on the bed, her hands trembling. Tears welled up in her eyes as the gravity of the situation hit her.

"Ab kya karungi mai!" she muttered, her voice breaking. She quickly wiped a tear that escaped, but it was clear she was on the verge of crying.

Akshat crouched before her, his eyes filled with concern. "Shh... please don't cry," he said gently, his voice soothing. "I'll fix this. I'll do something."

"Kya karenge!" she snapped, her frustration and helplessness spilling over. "I can't even go out like this."

His jaw tightened as he looked around the room, thinking quickly. "Do you have a needle and thread?" he asked.

She blinked at him, momentarily stunned by the question. After a moment, she nodded and pointed to a small box on a table nearby. "Hmm... uss box me hai."

Akshat stood immediately and walked over to the box, opening it to find a small sewing kit. He returned to her side, holding it up as if it were the solution to everything.

His hands were steady as he picked it up, opening it to find a needle and thread inside. Carefully, he threaded the needle, his brows furrowed in concentration.

Once he was done, he turned back to her, holding up the needle and thread. His voice came out low but steady, "C... can I?"

Amrit looked at him, her cheeks already pink from the overwhelming emotions of the moment. "Aapko aata hai?" she asked hesitantly, biting her lower lip in nervousness.

"I can try," he replied, his gaze unwavering, though there was a hint of uncertainty in his tone.

After a moment of silence, she nodded. She stood up slowly, her fingers clutching the tablecloth wrapped around her shoulders. With a deep breath, she loosened it and let it slip off, revealing the undone dori. Her skin glowed under the soft light, and for a fleeting moment, Akshat's gaze flickered to her exposed back. But almost immediately, he averted his eyes, focusing solely on the task at hand.

He stepped closer, his hands trembling slightly as he held the blouse dori. He tried to sew it carefully, but his fingers accidentally brushed against her bare skin. Amrit shivered at the unexpected contact, her breath hitching audibly. Akshat froze for a second, his heart racing. He closed his eyes tightly, muttering to himself under his breath, "Focus, Akshat. Just focus."

He took a deep breath, his warm breath fanning over her neck, and moved closer to complete his task. As he began sewing, his fingers brushed against her back again, sending a tingling sensation up her spine. She gulped, her body stiffening slightly at the proximity, but she remained still, trusting him completely.

Akshat's hands trembled as he worked. Each accidental touch made him more aware of how close they were. He gritted his teeth, trying to focus solely on the needle and thread, but his racing heart, wasn't making it any easier.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he tied the last knot. He stepped back abruptly, putting some distance between them as he exhaled deeply. "Done," he said, his voice hoarse but steady.

Amrit turned to face him, her eyes meeting his. She whispered softly, "Thank you." Her voice was filled with gratitude, but her flushed face betrayed the flutter of emotions she was feeling.

Akshat nodded stiffly, his gaze now fixed anywhere but on her. "Tum jao," he said, his voice gentler now. "I'll be there in a few minutes."

Amrit gave him a small smile, pulling the tablecloth back around her shoulders as she stepped out of the room.

As the door clicked shut behind Amrit, Akshat sat down heavily on the edge of the bed. His hands trembled as if they had a life of their own, refusing to obey his attempts to steady them. He stared at them for a long moment, the memory of her soft skin still lingering on his fingertips, not as a sensation but as a haunting echo of emotions he could neither fully comprehend nor escape.

He ran his hands over his face, letting out a shaky breath. He thought he was past all of this-past the suffocating panic that gripped him whenever he got too close to someone. Over the years, he had convinced himself that he was healing. He had danced with Amrit, held her close, even embraced her in fleeting moments of comfort. All those times, he had told himself, See? You're fine now. It's over.

But tonight proved that it wasn't.

His breaths came in uneven waves as memories flickered like shadows in the corner of his mind. He shook his head sharply, as though trying to dislodge them, but their grip was too strong.

He clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms as he tried to ground himself. You're fine. You're safe. This is different. She's different. He repeated the words like a mantra, hoping they'd drown out the storm inside him.

But the truth was, no matter how much he tried to rationalize it, a part of him was still trapped in the past, chained by memories he had spent years trying to bury. Memories he didn't want to think about. Memories he couldn't escape.

Akshat inhaled deeply, forcing himself to sit upright. He wiped his face, dragging his palms down over his stubble as though the action could scrub away the turmoil. He couldn't let this consume him again. Not now. Not when he was finally learning to let people in.

He glanced toward the door Amrit had just walked out of, her shy, blushing face etched in his mind. He didn't want to ruin this-whatever fragile bond they were building. For her sake, for his own, he had to keep it together.

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Your thoughts on Akshat's reaction??

How was the chapter??

By the way sorry for boring chapter 🥲

Your favourite moments???