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Krishiv paced restlessly in Vedant's room, his hands in his pockets, occasionally glancing at the clock. His unease didn't go unnoticed.

"Tujhe kya hua hai? Aur aaj achanak yahan rehne ka khayal kaise aa gaya?" Vedant asked, sitting on his bed and watching Krishiv curiously.

"Aise hi... I was missing Preeti masi's matar paneer," Krishiv replied nonchalantly, though his face betrayed his inner turmoil.

Vedant raised an eyebrow. "Toh chain se baith na... why are you pacing around like someone's chasing you?"

Krishiv paused, frowning. "Aise hi... I just need some fresh air. Mai garden mein walk kar ke aata hoon."

Krishiv opened the door to step into the corridor and paused when he saw Bulbul walking out of her apartment, a tiny figure clutching a colorful bag in her hands. She looked up, her face lighting up when she saw him.

"Cheatal uncle!" she exclaimed with a wide grin.

Krishiv smiled back and bent down to pick her up in his arms. "Hello, madam! What are you doing here at this hour?"

"I'm going to Ruchi's place. Uska toy wapas karna hai," she said, holding up the bag proudly.

"Accha? Ruchi ka toy lekar ghoom rahi ho?" he teased, adjusting her on his hip.

"Haan, mujhe toh bas wapas dena hai," she replied matter-of-factly.

Krishiv chuckled. "Theek hai, I'm coming with you."

Bulbul tilted her head, her tiny eyebrows knitting together. "Kyun?"

"Ainvy," Krishiv shrugged, his casual tone making her giggle.

As Krishiv and Bulbul walked back toward the apartment after returning Ruchi's toy, the little girl chattered non-stop about her day. Krishiv listened patiently, smiling at her antics.

"Accha Bulbul, don't go anywhere alone, okay?" he said, his tone soft yet firm. "Akshat, Amrit, Vedant, Nandini, ya Preeti masi mein se kisi ko sath leke jaana. And don't talk to strangers."

Bulbul stopped walking for a moment and looked up at him curiously. "Kuch hua hai kya?" she asked, her small face etched with confusion.

"Nahi toh," Krishiv replied quickly, brushing off her question.

Bulbul squinted at him suspiciously. "Mumma is also saying the same things-'don't go anywhere alone, don't talk to strangers.' She's also very tensed these days," she said innocently, fiddling with the hem of her dress.

Krishiv frowned slightly but maintained his calm demeanor. "Still, you were going alone?" he asked, arching an eyebrow.

Bulbul pouted, crossing her arms. "Offo! Neeche hi toh jaana tha," she defended herself.

Krishiv sighed, shaking his head. "Phir bhi, Bulbul. It's not safe."

By the time they reached the apartment, Bulbul was already distracted, humming a tune as they walked to her door. She rang the bell excitedly, hopping on her toes, and Krishiv gently set her down.

As soon as Kavya opened the door, Bulbul bolted inside, running past her mother with a loud, "Mumma, toy wapas kar diya!"

Kavya's eyes shifted from her daughter to Krishiv, standing casually by the door. Her surprise was evident. "Aap?"

Krishiv gave her a polite nod. "Yeah, I'm staying at Preeti masi's apartment," he said.

"Good night, sir," Kavya said softly, her hands clasped in front of her.

Krishiv rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "Woh...call me if anything happens," he said, his voice filled with genuine concern.

"Ji," Kavya nodded, her gaze steady.

"Aap thik hain na?" he asked, his brows furrowed slightly as he studied her face.

"Haan sir," she replied, offering him a faint smile.

He nodded, still not fully convinced. "Accha, lock the door properly and don't open it without checking," he instructed, his tone a mix of authority and care.

"Ji," she said again, nodding as she reached for the door.

"Chaliye, bye," he said with a small smile, turning to leave.

As she closed the door, the doorbell rang again. Frowning, Kavya opened the door without thinking, only to find Krishiv standing there with his arms crossed, a playful but stern look on his face.

"Kya hua?" she asked, confused.

He raised an eyebrow. "I just told you not to open the door without checking, and you still opened it. Ye konsi baat hai, bulbul ki mummy?" he said, shaking his head in mock disapproval.

Realizing her mistake, she slapped her forehead. "Oh...right. I'm sorry," she said sheepishly.

Krishiv let out a small chuckle. "Ek kaam kariye, stay here only. Problem solved," he teased lightly, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Kavya blinked, caught off guard by his remark. "Really?" he added, his eyes lighting up as if he was genuinely considering the idea.

"Kya hua ab?" she asked, crossing her arms.

He smiled sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. "Accha, sorry," he said, his tone lighter. "Lock the door and go to sleep."

"It's only 9," she replied, raising an eyebrow.

"Accha, jo karna hai kariye," he said with a small sigh, pointing to the door. "Bas, lock the door properly."

"Aur kuch?" she asked, tilting her head as she suppressed a smile.

He thought for a moment, then nodded. "Umm...haan, be careful," he said, his voice soft with concern.

She gave a small nod, the warmth in his tone not going unnoticed. "Thik hai, sir," she said with a faint smile.

He waved at her casually. "Good night," he said, turning to leave for Preeti's apartment.

As he walked away, Kavya chuckled softly, shaking her head at his antics before closing the door and locking it securely.

Anika sat on the living room sofa, absentmindedly twirling the corner of her dupatta. The house was unusually quiet, with Vihaan at the office and their in-laws away. Just then, Krishiv entered the room, carrying his usual cheerful energy.

"Arre, Anika! Yahan akele kyun baithi ho?" Krishiv asked, dropping into the armchair opposite her.

"Kuch nahi, bhaiya. Vihaan office mein hain aur Maa-Papa bhi gaye hain. Bas isi liye thoda akela lag raha tha," Anika replied with a faint smile.

Krishiv narrowed his eyes, noticing her troubled expression. "Tum bahot khoyi si lag rahi. Koi baat hai kya? Vihaan ne kuch kiya? Marun jaa ke usse?" he teased with mock seriousness.

Anika shook her head quickly. "Nahi, unhone kuch nahi kiya."

"Phir kya baat hai? Batao na," Krishiv pressed, leaning forward.

Anika hesitated, her hands fidgeting in her lap. "Bhaiya... ek baat batani hai mujhe, par galat mat samjhiyega. Jo maine dekha hai, wo bahut ajeeb tha."

Krishiv straightened up, intrigued. "Haan bolo."

Anika took a deep breath. "I think... Akshat bhaiya aur Amrit ka affair chal raha hai."

Krishiv's eyes widened in shock. "What? Tumko bhi aisa lagta hai?"

Anika frowned in confusion. "Tumko bhi ka matlab?"

Krishiv sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Mujhe bhi kuch ajeeb lag raha tha. Ek din maine Akshat ko Amrit ke apartment mein dekha tha... dono ek dusre ko hug kar rahe the. Mujhe laga ki shayad dono best friends hain. Akshat introvert hai, aur Amrit uski student hai, isiliye wo hamare saamne apni dosti ke baare mein baat nahi karta ki kahin hum judge na karen. Par uske baad maine unhe bahut baar aise hi dekha."

"Matlab?" Anika asked, her curiosity deepening.

Krishiv leaned closer. "Jab Nikhil ghar aaya tha pehli baar, tab Akshat ko Amrit ke apartment ke peeche ke gate se aaya tha. Tum tum bhi to thi wahan...haan bulbul usse wahan se lekar aayi thi par Akshat ki shakal dekhi thi wo ekdum shock me tha ham sabko dekh kar maine notice kar liya tha wahi pe."

Anika's jaw dropped slightly, her mind racing. "Bhaiya, Mall mein jab Nikhil aur Amrit shopping kar rahe the, Amrit ko Nikhil ki pasand ki dress achhi nahi lag rahi thi. Phir maine dekha ki Akshat bhaiya Amrit ke liye dress select kar rahe the, aur jaise hi unhone haan bola, Amrit ko wo dress turant pasand aa gayi."

Krishiv looked startled. "Aur?"

Anika continued, her voice lowering. "Jab Amrit ke liye western dress select karna tha, maine dekha ki Akshat bhaiya uske liye personally dress dekh rahe the. Phir jab hum movie ke liye gaye, toh Akshat bhaiya aur Amrit bagal-bagal baithe the. Aur unka behavior... bilkul ek couple jaisa tha."

Krishiv's expression grew serious as he processed her words. "Agar yeh sab sach hai, toh iska matlab... Amrit Nikhil ko cheat kar rahi hai? Woh toh Akshat ki respect karta hai aur Amrit par poora bharosa karta hai."

Anika nodded, her eyes filling with sympathy. "Mujhe bhi Nikhil ke liye bura lag raha hai. Wo toh itne ache lagte hain, aur Amrit unke saath aise behave kar rahi hai. Akshat bhaiya ko bhi sochna chahiye tha... yeh galat hai aur Amrit ko itna seedha samjhte the."

Krishiv clenched his fists, frustration evident on his face. "Yeh baat kisi aur ko nahi batani chahiye abhi. Humein aur proof chahiye. Ho sakta hai hum galat ho rahe ho, par agar yeh sach hai toh... pata lagana hoga."

Anika nodded in agreement. "Haan, bhaiya. Ek taraf Nikhil ka bharosa aur dusri taraf yeh dono..."

The two sat in silence for a moment, the weight of their doubts hanging heavily between them, as they resolved to keep an eye on Akshat and Amrit to uncover the truth.

Anika and Krishiv exchanged a look, their doubts now growing heavier with each passing moment. They both knew they needed someone trustworthy to confirm their suspicions, and there was only one person who could keep a close eye on Akshat and Amrit-Vedant. Anika quickly grabbed her phone and dialed Vedant's number, feeling a mix of anxiety and determination.

"Hello?" Vedant's voice came through the phone, sounding casual.

"Vedant, bhaiya, aap ghar aa sakte ho? Hum baat karna chahte hain," Anika said, her voice low but firm.

"Abhi? Kya hua, sab theek hai?" Vedant asked, sensing the seriousness in her tone.

"Bas aap aa jao, kuch zaroori baat karni hai," Anika replied, ending the call with a sigh.

Minutes later, Vedant entered their flat, looking around with curiosity. "Kya baat hai, Anika? Tum dono kuch pareshaan lag rahe ho," he asked, his eyes flicking between Krishiv and Anika, noticing their uneasy expressions.

Krishiv hesitated, his fingers tapping nervously on the armrest of the sofa. He wasn't sure how to start, but he knew it couldn't wait any longer. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Vedant... hum dono ko lagta hai... ki Amrit aur Akshat ke beech kuch chal raha hai."

Vedant froze. His face turned stern, and for a moment, it seemed like he couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Kya? Tum dono... Amrit aur Akshat? Tumhe lagta hai ke unke beech affair hai?" His voice rose in shock and anger.

Anika's gaze fell to the floor, her hands tightly clasped. "Haan, bhaiya. Humne kuch cheezein dekhi hain jo ajeeb thi... Jaise Akshat aur Amrit ko bar-bar aise dekha hai, jaise koi couple ho." She looked at Krishiv for support, her heart racing.

Krishiv nervously ran a hand through his hair. "Humne dekha hai ki Akshat Amrit ke apartment ke peeche ke gate se aata hai. Aur jab Nikhil aaya tha, toh Akshat uss waqt bhi wahan tha. Amrit ko shopping karte waqt... Akshat hi uske liye dress select kar raha tha. Aur jab hum mall gaye the, dono saath-baith kar movie dekh rahe the. Kuch toh gadbad hai."

Vedant's eyes flared with disbelief and anger. "Yeh sab tum dono ne dekha aur tumhein lagta hai ki Akshat aise kuch karega? Tumhe lagta hai wo Amrit aur wo...kya soch rahe hain aap dono?" His voice trembled with frustration as he struggled to process the idea.

"Bhaiya, samajhiye na, yeh sab bohot ajeeb hai.. hamare doubts barh rahe hain," Krishiv explained, his voice faltering with uncertainty.

Vedant clenched his fists, visibly upset. "Tum dono ko kya lagta hai, Akshat aise kuch karega? Tum dono ki tarah sochne ka toh sawal hi nahi uthta. Akshat ki shadi tootne ke baad usse dobara ye pyaar ke chakkar me nahi rehna tha. Main usse ache se jaanta hoon. Tum dono ko bas galat fahmi ho rahi hai," Vedant snapped, his voice harsh and defensive.

Anika looked at Vedant, her heart heavy with concern. "Bhaiya, humein laga tha ki aap samjhenge. Akshat bhai ko humne hamesha aise hi jaane nahi diya, par jo humne dekha... wo sach hai. Amrit ko dekhkar, aur unke beech ka chemistry... kuch toh hai jo humein samajh nahi aa raha."

Vedant shook his head, visibly frustrated by what he was hearing. "Main tum dono ki baat samajh sakta hoon, lekin Akshat ke baare mein aise soch bhi nahi sakta hun. Usne kabhi aise kuch nahi kiya. Tum dono ko bas apne doubts ko thoda control karna hoga. Akshat na toh aise kuch karega na Amrit ko aise cheez karne dega...aur Amrit Akshat ki student hai Akshat aisa soch bhi nahi sakta...usse pata hai apni student wo bhi married ladki ke sath affair karna kya hota hai wo already ye cheej face kar Chuka hai uss Arpita ne Akshat ke sath yahi Kiya tha to Akshat khud aise kaise kar sakta hai thoda dimaag lagao aap dono."

Krishiv looked at Anika, his face reflecting both doubt and frustration. "Par bhaiya, hamne un dono ko aise saath dekha hai... isliye hum itni badi baat bol rahe hain aur hamne aapko isliye bulaya ki shayad ham dono galat ho shayd Akshat Bhaiya Amrit ko dost ha behan jaisa samjhte aap Amrit ke ghar ke samne hain aap nazar rakh ke hamara doubt clear kar sakte hain."

Vedant sighed deeply, his anger simmering down but the concern still very much present in his eyes. "Mujhe nahi pata mai kispe yakeen karun tum dono pe mujhe okk I know Akshat aisa nahi karega still I'll keep an eye on them. Lekin tum dono ko ye sochna hoga ki jo tum dekho, wo zaroori nahi ki woh sach ho. Kabhi kabhi humein apne assumptions par bhi control rakhna padta hai."

Anika bit her lip, torn between believing what they saw and her trust in Akshat. "Samajh gaye, bhaiya. Par agar kuch aisa hota hai... toh hum kaise react karenge?"

Vedant placed a reassuring hand on Anika's shoulder. "Sab kuch samajhna hoga. Tum dono ko apne doubts ko thoda side rakhna hoga. Agar kuch galat hai toh hum usse dhund kar samjhenge. Par abhi ke liye... just trust me, okay?"

Krishiv and Anika nodded, though the doubts still lingered in their minds. They were relieved to have Vedant on their side, but deep down, they knew the coming days might reveal more than they were prepared for.

"Alright, bhaiya. Hum aap par bharosa karte hain," Anika said quietly, her voice filled with a mixture of hope and apprehension.

Vedant gave them a determined nod. "Don't worry. I'll find out what's really going on. Just... don't jump to conclusions too soon."

As Vedant left the flat, both Krishiv and Anika sat in silence, their thoughts swirling. They had shared their doubts, but the path ahead still seemed unclear. Could they really trust Akshat? Or were they about to uncover something that would change everything?

The next day, after an afternoon of shopping, Akshat and Amrit returned to the apartment complex, carrying their shopping bags and chatting casually. As they walked toward the entrance, they were surprised to see Nikhil approaching them, running from a distance with an eager smile.

"Mere liye kya laaye?" Nikhil asked, his voice full of excitement as he caught up with them.

Amrit raised an eyebrow and rolled her eyes in mock annoyance. "Grocery shopping pe gaye the, kapdo ki nahi. Aur tum kya, hamare bache ho jo tumhare liye bahar se kuch laaye?" she teased, her tone light but sarcastic.

Akshat chuckled at her remark, shaking his head. "Aur aise bhag ke bhi aaya hai, upar se neeche," he added with a smirk, poking fun at Nikhil's enthusiasm.

Nikhil, unfazed by their playful teasing, grinned. "Aree, kuch khane ko laaye, mujhe bhookh lagi hai," he said, rubbing his stomach dramatically.

"Maggie laaye hun," Amrit replied, gesturing to the stairs leading to their apartment. "Akshat bana denge."

"Yeh pakad, pehle yeh sab," Akshat said, handing over the grocery bags to Nikhil, who struggled slightly with the weight.

"Heavy hai," Nikhil complained with a groan.

"Chal, chal, upar chal," Amrit urged him, turning toward the building and guiding Nikhil up the stairs.

From the balcony of the apartment opposite, Krishiv and Vedant were watching the scene unfold. Krishiv squinted his eyes, his suspicions only growing stronger.

"See? Dono sath mein hain," Krishiv said, pointing toward Akshat and Amrit as they walked toward the stairs.

Vedant, still not entirely convinced, raised an eyebrow. "Nikhil nahi dikh raha tujhe?" he asked, rolling his eyes as he tried to focus on Nikhil, who was now walking behind them.

Krishiv shook his head in exasperation, clearly frustrated by Vedant's lack of understanding. "Arre bhai, tujhe yakeen nahi ho raha hai na? Chal, apartment ke peeche wali seedhi se aa rahe honge dono," he said, grabbing Vedant's arm and pulling him towards the rear exit of the building.

Reluctantly, Vedant followed, still skeptical but curious about where Krishiv was leading him. They reached the back stairs and hid behind a pillar, trying to stay out of sight while still keeping an eye on Akshat, Amrit, and Nikhil.

Krishiv, watching them closely, whispered, "Dekh, bola na maine, ye dono kuch chhupa rahe hain."

Vedant leaned against the pillar, narrowing his eyes. He watched as Akshat and Amrit exchanged a brief look, their body language too comfortable with one another for his liking. "Nahin yaar, this is strange. Why are they behaving like that? It's like they don't care if anyone's watching."

As Nikhil turned toward them to ask something, Akshat and Amrit quickly dropped their hands, but it was too late. Krishiv and Vedant had already seen them holding hands just moments before.

"Did you see that?" Krishiv asked, barely containing his disbelief. "They were holding hands, Vedant!" His voice was laced with frustration.

Vedant, still trying to process what he had seen, was equally stunned. "You're right. They... they were holding hands. And when Nikhil turned, they quickly pulled apart like it was nothing," he muttered, his thoughts racing.

"Yeh sab ekdum galat lag raha hai," Krishiv said, shaking his head. " Amrit Nikhil ko dhoka de rahi hai? Akshat ke saath..." He couldn't even finish the sentence, the weight of the situation sinking in.

Vedant felt his stomach churn as he recalled the moments when Akshat and Amrit had been acting too familiar with each other. It was more than just a friendly connection, there was something else, something deeper. He couldn't ignore it.

"Shit, I don't want to believe this," Vedant muttered under his breath, running a hand through his hair. "But... this looks bad, really bad."

Krishiv, noticing the concern in Vedant's eyes, added, "We can't let this go, Vedant. Nikhil deserves to know the truth. He deserves to know what Amrit is doing behind his back."

Just as they were about to discuss further, Akshat and Amrit reached the apartment entrance, with Nikhil still in tow. Krishiv and Vedant shared a look, their minds racing with questions.

"Let's keep watching them," Krishiv said, his voice quiet but determined. "Something's going on, Vedant. I'm sure of it."

Vedant nodded, his expression hardening. "I'll keep my distance and observe. But for now, we need to keep this quiet. We can't let Nikhil get suspicious."

As the two of them stood behind the pillar, watching Akshat and Amrit disappear inside the building, they both knew that the situation was far from over. They had no clear answers yet, but the uneasy feeling in the pit of their stomachs told them that something was very wrong.

After a while, Krishiv and Vedant decided to take matters into their own hands. They cautiously walked toward the back of the building, making sure no one noticed them. As they approached Amrit and Akshat's apartment, they saw the gate was closed. Without a second thought, they moved to the side window and tried to peek inside, careful not to make any noise.

Inside the apartment, they could hear Amrit's voice.

"Nikhil, andar jao aur maggie banao," Amrit said, her tone a bit impatient, but casual.

Nikhil, sounding slightly confused, replied, "Par tum boli thi ki..."

Amrit cut him off, her voice softer but still urging, "Mai bahar se aayi hun na, thak gayi hun. Jaao, bana do na yaar."

Nikhil sighed and gave in. "Fine," he muttered, sounding defeated. "Agar tum keh rahi ho, toh." And with that, Nikhil made his way to the kitchen.

Krishiv and Vedant exchanged a look. "This is odd," Vedant whispered, still unsure about what was going on. "Why send Nikhil to cook while she's just sitting there with Akshat?"

Krishiv was already on edge. "Keep watching, Vedant. Something's definitely off."

Inside, the scene between Akshat and Amrit began to unfold. Akshat, visibly exhausted, sat down on the couch and leaned back, rubbing his temples. Amrit watched him for a moment, then sat beside him, her presence calming him instantly.

"Headache?" Amrit asked softly, noticing his discomfort.

"Hmm," Akshat nodded, his eyes closing for a moment.

Without saying a word, Amrit stood up and walked to the bedroom. She returned moments later with a small bottle of hair oil. "Mai massage kar deti hun... aaram milega," she said, her voice gentle and caring. She handed him the oil, and Akshat sat up straighter, ready for her touch.

Amrit slowly began massaging his head, her fingers pressing lightly on his scalp. After a few minutes, Akshat, seemingly relaxed, reached up and gently grabbed her wrists.

"Kya hua?" Amrit asked, a little surprised by his action.

"Nothing," Akshat replied, a soft smile on his face. "Ab relax feel kar raha hun."

"Ohh, thik hai," Amrit said, slightly relieved. "Mai isse rakh deti hun," she added, starting to pull her hands away. But before she could, Akshat held both her palms firmly, pulling her closer from behind.

"Kya hua?" Amrit asked, her voice now soft and filled with curiosity. He pressed a soft kiss on her temple.

She sat beside him . Akshat, still smiling, gently pinched her cheek before holding her hands again, his thumb caressing her palm tenderly.

"Kitne soft hath hain tumhare," Akshat commented, his gaze never leaving her hands.

Amrit smiled, touched by the compliment, and, without thinking, reached up to caress his cheek. Akshat leaned into the touch, his eyes closing for a brief moment. He then took her palm in his hand and kissed it gently.

Amrit blushed at the gesture, her heart racing. "Akshat, Nikhil aa jayega abhi," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Akshat smirked, clearly annoyed. "Ye Nikhil, kabab mein haddi ban ke baitha hai... Jab tak nahi tha, sab sahi tha, pata nahi kyun aa gaya." He groaned in frustration.

Amrit chuckled, clearly entertained by his playful frustration. "Haan, ab kya hi kar sakte hain majboori hai," she teased.

Just then, the sound of footsteps echoed down the hallway, and Nikhil entered the living room, unaware of the exchange that had just occurred between Amrit and Akshat. Instantly, Amrit and Akshat pulled their hands apart, trying to appear casual. Amrit quickly looked away, her cheeks still flushed from the intimacy of the moment.

Krishiv and Vedant, still standing outside the window, were left in shock, their suspicions now confirmed. They had just witnessed a moment that seemed to confirm everything they feared. They saw how Amrit had sent Nikhil to the kitchen and then shared an intimate, romantic exchange with Akshat. And as soon as Nikhil appeared, they quickly distanced themselves, like they were trying to hide something. It was as if Nikhil was an obstacle to their romance.

Krishiv's face turned grim as he turned to Vedant. "Iska matlab, inka affair abhi se nahi, Nikhil yahan tha nahi kabse hai," Krishiv said, his voice heavy with the truth.

Vedant's jaw tightened. "Haan, tabhi toh Akshat Nikhil se irritate ho raha tha. It's all making sense now," he added, running a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated.

Krishiv stepped into the bustling canteen, scanning the tables as he carried his lunch. His eyes landed on Kavya, who sat alone, quietly opening her lunchbox. Without a second thought, he walked toward her and pulled out the chair in front of her.

"Hi, Bulbul ki mummy," he greeted with a playful smile, making her look up in surprise.

"Aap yahan kya kar rahe hain?" she asked, her brows furrowed in confusion.

"Jo sab karte hain-lunch," he replied casually, settling into the seat.

"You'll have lunch here? Aap toh usually cabin me khate hain," she pointed out, still surprised by his presence.

"Woh Vihaan bhi hota tha na sath mein. Aaj hai nahi, toh yahin sahi," he explained with a shrug.

She glanced toward a group of employees sitting together, laughing and talking. "You should sit with them," she suggested, pointing toward them.

He smiled and shook his head. "They're enjoying together na? I'm their boss; they'll start hesitating if I join them. What if they're making fun of me? Mere samne toh nahi kar payenge. Toh unka maza kyun kharab karna," he said, chuckling softly.

"Why will they make fun of you?" she asked, genuinely curious.

"Sab karte hain na. Boss ka mazak udana is their birthright," he replied with a playful grin.

"Haan, but not yours," she said with a hint of sincerity. "Aapme kuch mazak udane jaisa nahi hai."

"Kyun nahi hai? I'm not perfect na," he said, tilting his head, testing her response.

"Perfect for me," she said absentmindedly, and Krishiv froze mid-chew, raising his left eyebrow with an amused smile.

"Are you flirting with me?" he asked, his tone laced with teasing, his grin widening.

Her eyes widened in panic, realizing what she'd just said. "What? No! Not at all! I'm sorry, sir. I was just-" she stammered, clearly flustered.

"Arre, aap toh pareshan hi ho jate ho," he said, laughing lightly. "Chill na, I was kidding. Itna toh samajh hi gaye honge mujhe," he added with a wink.

She sighed in relief, clutching her lunchbox tightly.

"You should sit with Alya," she said softly, avoiding his gaze.

Krishiv's eyebrows shot up, and a playful grin tugged at his lips. "Ab samjha... You don't want to share your delicious lunch with me, huh? So mean, Bulbul ki mummy," he teased, his tone laced with mock accusation.

She shook her head, a faint smile creeping onto her face. "Arre, it's nothing like that," she replied, her voice tinged with amusement. She opened her lunchbox, revealing a generous serving of biryani with a side of raita.

Krishiv's eyes lit up like a child's at the sight of his favorite treat. "Wow, Biryani!" he exclaimed, leaning forward to get a better look. "Now you're just trying to tempt me."

"Aap lunch nahi laate?" she asked, genuinely curious.

"Itna time kahan hota hai?" he replied with a shrug, his grin still intact.

Without waiting for him to ask, she pushed the lunchbox toward him. "Aap le lijiye," she said, offering him the food.

Krishiv's smile grew wider as he waved down one of the staff nearby. "Ek spoon milega please?" he asked politely. The moment he got it, he didn't waste a second. He dug into the biryani, taking a big bite as Kavya watched, amused.

"It's yummy! You know, you make the best food," he said mid-bite, his expression one of pure satisfaction.

She chuckled nervously, not sure how to respond, and instead tried to focus on the food. "Aap bhi khaiye," he said, noticing her hesitation.

"Haan, kha rahi hoon," she replied, finally taking a bite.

Krishiv grinned. "Good. Sharing is caring, right?" he said with a wink, and she couldn't help but laugh.

As the last grains of biryani disappeared from the lunchbox, Alya appeared, her expression sharp and her eyes trained on Krishiv.

"Krish, I want to talk to you," she said firmly, crossing her arms.

Krishiv, caught mid-bite, gulped down the remaining food and looked up at her. "Haan, toh baitho," he said casually, gesturing toward the chair across from him.

"Alone," she added, her tone pointed as she cast a sharp look at Kavya.

Kavya hesitated, sensing the tension. "You guys continue. I have work," she said with a forced smile, quickly closing her lunchbox and getting up to leave. She walked away, her steps slightly hurried, and Krishiv watched her go before turning his gaze back to Alya.

"What is this, Alya? Is this a way to behave?" he asked, his tone stern, yet calm.

Alya rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "I just wanted to talk to you! Yesterday when I called you, you said you were busy. Today, I asked you to have lunch with me, but you ignored me and sat here, having lunch with her!" she said, her voice rising slightly.

Krishiv leaned back in his chair, letting out a sigh. "Arre, Alya, she was sitting alone. She looked disturbed. Kya kar leta agar thoda time baith gaya uske sath?" he explained, his tone patient but firm.

Alya huffed, her irritation not abating. "Haan toh? How does that matter to you? Why does it bother you if she's disturbed? I was angry at you, and you didn't even say sorry to me!"

"For what?" Krishiv asked, genuinely confused, his brows furrowed.

"For ignoring me!" she exclaimed, frustration evident in her voice. "Leave it!" she continued, "What am I to you, Krishiv?" she asked abruptly, her voice softening but her eyes still sharp.

Krishiv blinked at her, surprised by the sudden question. "You're my friend," he replied honestly, his tone steady but lacking the weight she seemed to be searching for.

"I don't want to be your friend anymore, Krishiv. I want to marry you," she said, her confession leaving him utterly speechless.

Krishiv stared at her, his mind racing to comprehend the sudden turn of events. "Huh? What are you saying, Alya?" he asked, his tone bewildered. "Marriage is not in my plans right now. And... I just consider you as my friend. I've never seen you with those kinds of feelings."

Alya took a step closer, her determination unwavering. "So think about it na," she urged, her voice softer now. "What's the problem? We're compatible, Krishiv. Even Vishakha bua agrees with it."

The mention of Vishakha made Krishiv frown. "Vishakha Aunty?" he repeated, a trace of irritation in his voice. "Alya, this isn't about what others think or approve of. I'm just not ready for marriage right now."

"Haan, toh take your time," she said quickly, her tone almost pleading. "But give me a chance at least. Spend time with me... I'm sure you'll change your decision."

Krishiv let out a heavy sigh, running a hand through his hair. He opened his mouth to respond, but before he could say anything, Alya's phone rang, interrupting the tense moment. She glanced at the screen and sighed.

"Please, Krishiv," she said, her tone more vulnerable now. "Think about it. I deserve at least one chance."

With that, she turned and walked away, answering her call as she disappeared down the corridor, leaving Krishiv standing there, rooted to the spot.

The mall bustled with activity as Akshat and Amrit navigated the aisles. Amrit was holding a basket, browsing items with curiosity, while Akshat followed closely, adding things to the basket whenever her gaze lingered too long on something.

"Akshat, itna mat lijiye ,Bahkt zyada ho raha hai," she complained, trying to lighten the weight of the basket.

He smirked. "Tumhe jo pasand hai, woh sab lena zaroori hai."

Amrit rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her small smile. As they reached the billing counter, Akshat moved forward to pay, but Amrit quickly snatched his phone.

"Rukiye! Is baar mai karungi," she said, her excitement evident.

Akshat chuckled, shaking his head. "Thik hai, Madam. Jaise aapki marzi."

She grinned, handling the payment with enthusiasm while he stood by, amused by her childlike delight. Once done, they exited the supermarket, their shopping bags in hand.

As they stepped outside, Akshat accidentally collided with someone, causing their items to scatter onto the ground.

"I'm sorry," he said instinctively, bending down to help pick up the items. But as his eyes met the woman's face, he froze. His expression shifted from surprise to anger, his jaw tightening visibly.

It was Shalini-his mother.

"Akshat..." she whispered, her eyes welling up with tears.

Akshat stood abruptly, leaving the scattered items on the ground. His entire body stiffened, and his gaze turned cold. Amrit, unaware of the tension, bent down and began picking up Shalini's items.

Shalini reached out hesitantly, cupping Akshat's cheek. "Akshat... how are you, beta?" she asked, her voice trembling with emotion.

Akshat immediately stepped back, his expression hardening even further. "Don't you dare touch me," he said, his voice low but laced with venom.

Amrit, who had just stood up, froze in place. Her eyes widened in shock at the sudden hostility in his tone and the unexpected revelation.

Shalini's lips trembled as she tried to reason with him. "Akshat... why are you doing this? Beta, I'm your mother. At least talk to me."

"Stop this nonsense!" Akshat shouted, his voice echoing in the parking lot.

Amrit flinched at the sharpness of his tone, her heart sinking as she watched the scene unfold. She had never seen this side of Akshat before-so raw, so wounded.

Shalini's voice trembled as she stepped closer to Akshat, her pleading eyes searching for any sign of warmth. "Please, Akshat," she said softly. Her gaze shifted to Amrit, standing beside him, and her face lit up momentarily.

"Who is she? Is she your wife, beta? She's so pretty. What is her name?" Shalini asked, reaching out to cup Amrit's cheek.

Before Amrit could respond, Akshat stepped forward, pulling Amrit away from Shalini with a sharp motion. "None of your concern," he said coldly, his voice like ice.

Amrit stared at Akshat, her eyes wide with shock at his harsh behavior. His usual composed demeanor had completely shattered, and this side of him was both unfamiliar and unsettling.

Ignoring Akshat's glare, Amrit took a step forward and bent down, touching Shalini's feet out of respect.

"Amrit!" Akshat's warning tone rang out, his jaw tightening as he watched her.

Shalini placed a gentle hand on Amrit's head, blessing her with a faint, bittersweet smile. "You have such a kind heart," she whispered, before turning back to Akshat.

"Why are you behaving like this, Akshat? Why are you so angry? I know I've made mistakes, but I'm your mother. Forgive me, beta. Why are you overreacting like this?" Shalini pleaded, her voice cracking as she spoke.

Akshat's body stiffened, his breathing heavy as her words triggered a storm of emotions within him. His fists clenched by his sides, and his face darkened with barely contained rage.

Shalini reached out, her trembling hand moving to cup his cheek once more. "I've already suffered so much, beta. Please don't push me away," she said softly, tears streaming down her face.

Her words ignited something in him. "Suffered?" Akshat shouted, his voice echoing in the parking lot. "You think YOU suffered? You don't know what suffering is!"

As Shalini stepped closer, Akshat's anger erupted. "Go to hell!" he shouted, shoving her hand away with such force that she lost her balance.

Shalini stumbled, her eyes wide with fear as she was about to hit the ground, but Amrit sprang forward, catching her just in time.

"Akshat!" Amrit exclaimed, her voice a mix of disbelief and anger as she steadied Shalini.

But Akshat didn't look back. His face was a mask of fury and pain as he stormed off toward the car. His vision blurred with anger, his thoughts racing too fast to make sense of them.

He got into the car, slamming the door shut, and without a second glance, drove off, his mind clouded with emotions he couldn't control.

Amrit knelt beside Shalini, gently patting her shoulder. "Are you okay?" she asked softly.

Shalini wiped her tears with trembling hands and nodded, but the tears didn't stop. Her shoulders shook as she broke down further, clutching her chest. "I just... I love him so much," Shalini sobbed. "He's my son, my child... but every time I try to get close to him, he pushes me away."

Amrit remained silent, watching the older woman's pain spill out in every word.

Shalini looked at her, desperation filling her eyes as she reached out and held Amrit's hands tightly. "Please, beta. Please ask him to forgive me. I don't know what else to do. I've made so many mistakes, but I can't lose him like this. He's my world."

Amrit didn't know what to say. Her heart ached for Shalini, but she also knew the wounds Akshat carried. Instead of replying, she simply squeezed Shalini's hands, offering silent consolation.

Shalini let out a shaky sigh, trying to compose herself. Just then, her phone rang, breaking the moment. She wiped her tears hastily and answered it, her tone subdued.

After ending the call, Shalini turned back to Amrit. "I have to go now," she said, her voice still shaky. "Thank you for being kind."

Amrit nodded, watching as Shalini fished a small notebook from her purse. "Can you give me your number, beta? Please. I might need to talk to you about Akshat," she asked.

Amrit hesitated for a second before typing her number in her phone.

Shalini managed a faint smile, touching Amrit's cheek one last time before walking away. Amrit stood there, watching her leave, her mind spinning with everything that had just happened.

She turned her gaze to the road, her heart heavy with disbelief. How could Akshat just leave her like that? Amrit bit her lip, her emotions a tangled mess as she walked slowly toward the auto stand, the weight of the encounter pressing down on her.

Before she could reach the stand, a car screeched to a halt behind her. Startled, she turned around, only to see Akshat's car. He rolled down the window, his face as cold and unreadable as before.

"Baitho," he said flatly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Amrit hesitated for a moment but eventually walked to the passenger side and got in, sitting beside him silently.

She stole a glance at him, unsure how to start, but the tension in the air was thick. Finally, she mustered the courage. "Akshat, wo... I mean, she..."

"I'm sorry for leaving you like that," Akshat interrupted, his voice low and devoid of his usual edge.

Amrit blinked, caught off guard by his apology. "It's okay," she said softly, "but she was saying-"

"Amrit, please," he cut her off again, his voice strained. "Can we not talk about her? Please."

She sighed, her shoulders slumping. His pain was evident, even if he refused to express it. "Okay," she said, leaning back in her seat, deciding not to press further.

Amrit glanced at Akshat's face, his cold and distant expression tugging at her heart. Biting her lip, she pondered how to lighten his mood. That's when her eyes landed on a pani puri stall by the roadside, and an idea sparked in her mind.

"Akshat," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "I want to have pani puri."

Akshat glanced at her, then at the stall. With a small sigh, he pulled the car over to the side. "Toh jao," he said nonchalantly.

She frowned. "Nahi, chaliye."

"I said you go. I'll wait here," he replied, his tone indifferent.

But Amrit wasn't one to give up so easily. She stepped out of the car, walked around to his side, and opened his door. Without waiting for permission, she grabbed his arm and began tugging him out of the car. "Chaliye na, Akshat!" she insisted, her persistence earning a small exasperated sigh from him.

"Fine," he muttered, finally giving in as she practically dragged him toward the stall.

"Bhaiya, do plate pani puri," she said cheerfully, smiling at the vendor.

Akshat crossed his arms, eyeing the stall dubiously. "Amrit, mai nahi khata ye sab," he stated firmly.

She spun to face him, her mouth dropping open dramatically. "Kyaaa?!" she exclaimed, her voice loud enough to make a few people glance their way. "Aap pani puri nahi khate? Paap lagega, Akshat, paap!" She shook her head, looking at him as though he'd just committed a heinous crime.

"You eat it. I'll just stand here," he said, gesturing for her to go ahead.

But Amrit, ever the drama queen, turned to the vendor and waved him off with a pout. "Nahi khana toh rehne dijiye, bhaiya," she said, her voice tinged with mock disappointment. She turned and began walking away, her dramatic sulk in full swing.

Akshat sighed, running a hand down his face. "Drama band karo," he muttered under his breath before calling out to the vendor, "Bhaiya, plates dijiye."

Hearing him, Amrit froze mid-step. A wide grin spread across her face, and she turned on her heel, running back to him in excitement. "You're the best!" she squealed, leaning in and planting a quick kiss on his cheek before taking her place beside him.

Akshat's eyes widened in shock as his hand instinctively went to his cheek. His face flushed a deep shade of red, but Amrit, ever casual, remained unaffected, happily watching as the vendor prepared their plates.

Amrit happily dug into her pani puri, savoring the spicy tang while Akshat cautiously took small bites from his plate. However, soon enough, his face twisted in discomfort. His eyes widened, and he started coughing uncontrollably.

"Bhaiya, inka kam teekha kariye aur mere mein extra daalna!" Amrit instructed the vendor with authority, grinning smugly at Akshat's reaction.

But her triumph didn't last long. A few minutes later, her own face turned bright red. Her eyes watered, and she fanned her mouth frantically. "Aaa!! It's so spicy... pani do yaar!" she cried, throwing the plate aside as she started coughing violently.

Akshat, startled, quickly patted her back. "Kisne kaha tha itna spicy khane ko, haan? Wait, don't drink water from here-it's unhealthy. I'll get a bottle." Without waiting for her response, he rushed to a nearby shop and returned with a bottle of water.

"Here, drink this," he said, unscrewing the cap and handing it to her. Amrit grabbed it, gulping down the water in desperation while still hissing and fanning her mouth.

Akshat couldn't hold it in anymore-he burst out laughing. "Bhaiya, aur teekha banana!" he mimicked her, his voice dripping with mockery. "Ho gaya na ab! Maine kaha tha yahi haal hoga!" He laughed again, shaking his head as she glared at him.

"You're enjoying this?" she huffed, still sipping water.

"Of course I am," he replied, smirking at her. "You deserve it after that overconfidence."

Amrit narrowed her eyes at him, but inwardly, she smiled. Her plan had worked. He was laughing-an actual, genuine laugh that softened his usual cold demeanor. Even if it meant burning her tongue, she felt it was worth it.

A few minutes later, they both returned to the car. Amrit settled into the passenger seat, still blowing on her tongue in an exaggerated manner. Akshat walked around to the driver's side and climbed in, placing something on her lap.

"What's this?" she asked, looking down.

"Chocolate. It'll help with the burning," he said, starting the car.

Amrit opened the wrapper eagerly and took a bite, sighing in relief as the sweetness soothed her tongue. After a moment, she broke off a piece and held it out to him.

He glanced at her in surprise but leaned over and took a small bite. "Thanks," he said, his lips curling into a soft smile.

Amrit grinned at him, popping another piece into her mouth. As he drove, she noticed the faint smile still lingering on his face. Her heart warmed at the sight.

The conference room buzzed with quiet energy as Akshat led the meeting, his sharp gaze scanning through the presentation slides on the large screen. Just then, his phone buzzed on the table, causing him to glance down. It was a message from Amrit.

Curious, he unlocked his phone. Amrit had sent pictures of five tops with the message: "I'm going out with Vidya. Which one should I wear?"

Akshat's serious demeanor softened as he looked at the images. He zoomed in on each one, analyzing them carefully. His fingers hovered over the screen before he finally replied: "The wine red one. It'll suit you."

A moment later, her reply popped up: "Thank you 💋"

His eyes widened slightly, and his face warmed as the emoji registered. He quickly wiped the blush off his face, glancing around to make sure no one noticed.

Still, he couldn't stop the small smile that tugged at his lips. He typed back: "Pictures bhejna."

Her response came instantly: "Ok ok. Bye."

He chuckled softly, locking his phone and setting it aside. The subtle smile lingered on his face, his mood visibly lighter.

"Sir?"

The voice snapped him out of his thoughts, and he looked up to see everyone in the room staring at him expectantly.

"What?" he asked, his brows furrowing slightly.

"Sir, you were supposed to tell us the further plan," one of his team members said cautiously.

Realization dawned, and he straightened in his seat, quickly regaining his professional composure. "Oh, right. Sorry about that. I had an important message." He cleared his throat, gesturing toward the screen. "Let's continue."

Akshat stepped into the room after a long day, his mind filled with the stress of meetings and decisions that needed to be made. He was hoping for a little peace and quiet, a break from the chaos. But as he entered his personal space, he immediately felt that something was off.

The moment he walked into the closet, he stopped in his tracks. His usual calm demeanor slipped, replaced by a deep sigh of exasperation. The clothes he had expected to be neatly hanging in the closet were nowhere to be found. Instead, there were books-books stacked haphazardly in the place of his shirts and jackets.

"Dress ke jagah books? Ye ladki bhi na!" Akshat muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with mild annoyance. He ran his fingers over the spines of the books, mentally rolling his eyes. These weren't his books. They weren't even the kind of books he'd ever pick up. He shook his head, setting them aside with a sigh, preparing himself for the small inconvenience of rearranging things back to how he liked them.

With a grimace, he turned to leave the closet, his eyes darting to the other areas of the room. It didn't take long for him to spot another issue. His gaze immediately landed on the shoe rack-his phone charger was plugged into the shelf, nestled between his shoes as if it were part of the shoe collection.

"Kuch bhi kahin bhi rakh deti hai..." he muttered again, his lips curling into a frown. He pulled the charger from its unlikely home and walked toward its proper place, irritated by yet another misplaced item.

But that was not the end of it. As he turned around to inspect the rest of the room, his eyes narrowed in frustration. Where did he put his jacket? The one he had worn that morning before heading out? He ran his hands over the other items, but the jacket was nowhere to be found. His mind raced as he tried to remember where he might have left it. His gaze landed on the chair near the corner of the room, but it was empty.

Feeling a slight tension build in his chest, he walked over to the drawer where he kept all his important belongings. He pulled it open, expecting to see his wallet resting there. But instead, his eyes widened as he found only neatly folded socks and a handkerchief.

"Wallet ke jagah socks aur handkerchief!" Akshat groaned, his frustration mounting. He slammed the drawer shut before his temper could flare further. "Ab wallets pata nahi kahan hoga." His tone was sharp, laced with irritation.

His heart raced slightly in annoyance, but he took a deep breath to steady himself. He had dealt with chaos before, but this-this was something else.

He muttered under his breath, his patience slipping: "Isko room arrange karne ko kisne kaha tha!" Akshat's gaze swept across the room, taking in the now-familiar disarray. "Jabse aayi hai sab kuch palat ke hi rakh diya hai. Kuch bhi pehle jaisa hai nahi." His eyes darkened with disbelief and mild annoyance, the edges of his lips pulling into a tight line.

His eyes wandered, scanning the room one more time, when they landed on something that made him pause.

There, draped over the chair, was Amrit's dupatta, its soft fabric flowing over the edge of the seat. The deep color, a rich shade of red, seemed to stand out against the neutral surroundings of the room. His anger began to fade as he stared at the delicate fabric, his thoughts softening in the warmth of the moment.

He slowly walked over to the chair, his eyes never leaving the dupatta as he picked it up, the softness of it against his fingers somehow calming his frayed nerves. With a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips, he wrapped it around his fist, almost as if he was holding on to something precious, something that belonged to him now.

"Par sab kuch kitna accha lagne laga hai tumhare aane se." He murmured to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. As he held the dupatta closer, the scent of her lingered on it, and for a moment, the world outside his room seemed to disappear. His eyes softened, and he let out a sigh, almost as if the weight of his thoughts had been lifted by her mere presence in his life.

"Amrit...just like your name, you make me feel alive." He smiled softly, staring at the dupatta with a mix of fondness and affection. The words felt foreign on his lips, but they were true. She had brought a spark back into his life that he hadn't even realized was missing. He closed his eyes briefly, feeling the deep connection he was building with her, a connection he hadn't expected.

"Tumhare ishq ki mithas meri zindagi me kya mili, sari zindagi ki kadwahat hi mit gayi." The words felt like a confession, though he wasn't sure if he was speaking to her or just to himself. But the truth was clear-she had changed him, and somehow, in the process, he had begun to change for her too.

As he let the moment settle, his phone buzzed in his pocket, cutting through the tranquility he had been basking in. With a chuckle, he saw the name on the screen-Amrit. It was almost as if she knew when to call, when to disrupt his thoughts.

"Shaitan ka naam liya nahi shaitan ka phone aa gaya." He smirked, amused at his own words, before answering the call.

"Hello." His tone was light, teasing, as he held the phone to his ear.

"Aa gaye aap?" Amrit's voice rang through the phone, cheerful and a little curious.

"Haan, pehle ye batao tumne mera saman idhar udhar kyun kiya?" he asked, the playful teasing evident in his voice as he leaned against the doorframe, still holding the dupatta in his hand.

"Haww..saman idhar udhar kahan kiya? Usse sambhal ke rakha hai." Amrit replied, feigning innocence, though Akshat could hear the playful tone in her words.

"Usse idhar udhar kehna hi kehte hain... aur tum ghar pe sab vaise hi rehne dogi toh meherbani hogi." Akshat couldn't help but smile as he spoke, his frustration from earlier fading into the background.

"Accha, kya nahi mil raha?" she asked, her tone playful but filled with curiosity.

He let out a sigh, leaning back against the table, and responded with mild exasperation, "Kuch bhi nahi mil raha hai." His frustration was evident, and he could almost feel her smiling on the other end of the line.

Amrit, as always, was unfazed by his moods. She quickly became the calming presence he didn't know he needed. "Accha, suniye, almirah ke right side mein aapke saare jackets rakhe hain, aur dressing table ke drawer mein right side mein dekhenge, toh aapko aapka wallet mil jayega." Her voice was calm and methodical, as if she had memorized the entire layout of the room. It made Akshat smile involuntarily, even though he didn't admit it out loud.

She continued with the same confidence. "Aur jagah pehle aapka wallet rehta tha, wahan aapke socks aur handkerchief rakhe hain...uske neeche aapke slippers rakhe hain. Simple."

He walked over to the dresser, opened the drawer she'd mentioned, and sure enough, his wallet was there. The room suddenly felt less chaotic, her guidance making everything feel in its place.

Leaning back against the table, a smile tugged at the corner of his lips. He couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth toward her, grateful for how she always knew how to make things easier for him. "Thank you," he said softly, the words more sincere than he realized.

Amrit, however, was already moving on, as if her task was done. "Accha, chaliye, order aa gaya hai. I will send you pictures. Bye." She said, her voice still light, but with a gentle finality.

"Take care," he responded, his voice warm, as the line disconnected.

Akshat stood before the mirror, his fingers lingering over the sticky note that had been placed on the glass. His eyes narrowed slightly as he read the familiar handwriting.

"Ainvy jaa ke baith mat jana aap, thode baal vaal bhi bana lena chahiye na."

A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, the playful reprimand from Amrit instantly brightening his mood. He chuckled softly under his breath, his fingers automatically reaching for the comb on the counter. As he fixed his hair, a sense of warmth washed over him, her words echoing in his mind.

Just as he thought the moment had passed, another note caught his attention, this time stuck near his perfume bottle. He picked it up and read aloud with a slight shake of his head.

"Ab issi baat pe, thoda perfume bhi laga lijiye..par ye vala nahi, wo uss side vala. Kehte hain pati ko ussi khushboo me mehekna chahiye jo uski patni ko pasand hai."

A deep sigh escaped him, yet his lips curved upward in amusement. He rolled his eyes at the thought of her meticulous care, but he couldn't help but laugh, his heart warmed by her thoughtfulness.

Without a second thought, he walked over to the shelf, picked up the perfume she'd mentioned, and sprayed it lightly over himself, his thoughts lingering on how effortlessly she had infiltrated every corner of his life.

As he walked toward the window, holding her dupatta in his hand, he couldn't help but feel the weight of her presence even in her absence. He gazed out at the world, his eyes unfocused, his mind swimming in the chaos she had brought into his life.

"Tum, tumhari cheezen, tumhari khushboo! Zindagi uthal pathal kar ke rakh di." His voice was soft, as if he were speaking more to himself than to anyone else. He let out a slow breath, his fingers tightening around the fabric of her dupatta, and continued, his gaze still fixed on the distant horizon.

"Phir bhi kahin na kahin, mujhe samet liya. Meri zindagi me jagah hi kahan thi kisi ajnabi ke liye, par tum zindagi me kaise sama gayi, bina koi ahat kiye."

He shook his head slightly, his lips curling into a thoughtful smile. It was hard to believe that this woman, this whirlwind of change, had somehow become the center of his world. She had slipped into his life so quietly, so seamlessly, and yet now he couldn't imagine a day without her.

With a final sigh, he let the dupatta fall gently from his hand, his gaze drifting to the bangles on the table. The delicate sound of their soft clink filled the silence around him.

"Main kabhi soch bhi nahi sakta tha ki yeh sab mehsoos karunga..." he murmured, a wry smile on his face as he looked at her things scattered across the room. "Par tum, tum din ba din meri aadat banti ja rahi ho."

The evening air was warm, and the house was quiet as Akshat returned from Singhania mansion. His footsteps echoed through the hallway as he entered the house, and the faint murmur of voices caught his attention. He paused, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"Shit! Kahin koi aa toh nahi gaya?" he muttered under his breath, the familiar discomfort creeping up his spine.

Curiosity piqued, he moved quietly toward the living room, his eyes scanning the scene. His heart skipped a beat when he saw her-Shalini-sitting comfortably on the sofa, engaged in a conversation with Amrit. His mind raced, and his stomach clenched with a surge of anger.

What the hell was she doing here? Why was she in my house?

The sight of Shalini in his home made his blood boil. He clenched his fists, his jaw tightening with rage as he stormed out of his room. His steps were loud and deliberate, his frustration evident in every movement.

The moment he entered the living room, his voice rang out like a thunderclap.

"What the hell are you doing here?!" Akshat's voice was sharp, cutting through the air with fury. "How dare you enter my house?"

Shalini looked up, startled, and began to speak in a soft, pleading tone. "Akshat beta... please, just-"

"Get out!" Akshat's tone was final, commanding, his anger palpable. He couldn't stand the sight of her in his home, couldn't bear to listen to her excuses.

"Please listen to me," Shalini tried again, her voice desperate.

But Akshat wasn't having it. His patience had worn thin, and he wasn't going to let her manipulate him any longer. "I SAID GET OUT!!" His voice was low but laced with menace, a warning that he wasn't afraid to escalate.

At that moment, Amrit entered the room, her expression confused. "Akshat, aap kaise baat kar rahe hain?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Akshat's temper flared, and he fought the urge to snap at her. He took a deep breath, trying to maintain control. "Stay out of this, Amrit," he muttered, barely restraining himself from saying something he might regret. His anger wasn't directed at her, but the frustration of seeing Shalini here was clouding his thoughts.

Without sparing another glance at Amrit, Akshat moved toward Shalini, his hand gripping her wrist tightly. He dragged her to the back door with a force that made her stumble.

"Akshat, please!" Shalini cried, trying to pull away, but Akshat was unyielding.

He opened the back door with a quick motion and, without a second thought, shoved her out into the yard. "Get out!" he repeated, his voice cold and final.

Amrit rushed forward, her eyes wide with shock. "Akshat, stop!" she exclaimed, her hand reaching out to him.

But Akshat didn't stop. He closed the door with a resounding thud, cutting off any further protests from Shalini or Amrit. He leaned against the door, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths, trying to steady himself.

He turned to face Amrit, his chest heaving with the anger that surged in him. For the first time since he had known her, he was furious with her. His voice, when it broke the silence, was cold and venomous.

"Why did you bring her here?" Akshat's words were almost too controlled, his anger simmering just below the surface. "How dare you bring her into this house, Amrit? Of all the things you could've done, why this?"

Amrit stood there, stunned by the outburst. She opened her mouth to speak, but Akshat didn't give her the chance. He was already walking toward her, his frustration building with every step.

"What were you thinking? Do you even realize what you did?" he shouted, his eyes burning with a fire she had never seen before. He couldn't believe what had just happened. She, of all people, had brought that woman into their home.

Amrit stepped back slightly, her face filled with confusion. "Why did you do that?" she asked, her voice trembling. "She's your mother, Akshat. She deserves a chance."

At the mention of that woman-his mother-Akshat felt a wave of nausea rise in him. His hands clenched into fists at his sides, and for a moment, he thought he might explode. The years of bitterness and rage that had built up inside him over the years began to spill out, and he couldn't stop it.

"She doesn't deserve a damn thing!" Akshat yelled, his voice raw with emotion. "You don't understand anything, Amrit! You think you do, but you don't. You have no idea what she did to me, how she made me feel! What kind of mother does that to her own child?!" His voice cracked with the force of his anger, and his eyes burned with unspoken pain.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, but the words came out before he could stop them.

"She made my life a living hell, Amrit! Every single day of my life. I don't even know what love means anymore. I'm terrified of it! Of feeling! She broke me, Amrit. She made me afraid of relationships, afraid of crowds, afraid of every damn thing that normal people take for granted, all because of her." His voice was now shaking, his breath coming in short bursts as he recalled the years of torment, of emotional abuse that had shaped him into the man he was today.

"And you want me to forget all of that, just because she gave birth to me?" His voice was laced with sarcasm and venom. "What the hell do you think she's done for me, huh? What has she ever done but ruin me?"

Amrit stood frozen in place, her eyes wide with shock. She had never seen Akshat like this before. The rawness of his anger, the depth of the pain in his words, hit her like a physical blow. Her heart wrenched as she tried to process what he was saying.

"I thought..." Amrit began, her voice faltering, but Akshat cut her off before she could finish.

"I thought?!" he shouted, his anger flaring again. "What, you thought you could just play the hero in your own little soap opera? You think you're the heroine who can fix everything, Amrit? Is that what you think? That you can fix me just because you want to? Do you think you can just wave a magic wand and make everything right? This isn't a damn serial!" His voice was ragged now, full of frustration and disappointment.

Akshat turned away from her, pacing the room as his breath hitched, his heart pounding in his chest. The images of his past flashed before his eyes-his mother's cruel words, her manipulations, the constant feeling of being worthless in her eyes. The pain of never feeling good enough, of never being loved or cared for in the way a child should be.

"You don't know anything about what happened to me because of her," he said, his voice quieter now but still laced with anger. "You don't know what I went through. What I still go through every single day because of that woman. I thought at least you would understand, Amrit. I thought you'd get it, that you'd see the scars she left on me, but no. You understand her better than you understand me."

His voice cracked, the weight of his words hitting him like a ton of bricks. He stopped pacing and stood still, his body tense, his fists clenched at his sides. His breath was shallow, his chest rising and falling as he tried to regain some semblance of control.

He ran a hand through his hair in frustration, his breath still ragged from the outburst. "I never imagined I'd be like this, but here I am... feeling like I'm drowning in my past, in all the things that woman did to me, and now you've pulled me right back into it."

Amrit stood there, her heart breaking for him. She had never truly understood the depth of his pain, the weight of the trauma he carried. And now, as she looked at him-so raw, so vulnerable-she realized just how much she had underestimated the impact of his past.

Her mouth opened, but no words came. She didn't know what to say. How could she fix this? How could she take away the pain he had been carrying for so long?

"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible, but Akshat didn't hear it. His mind was too clouded with the emotions that had finally spilled over.

The house felt unusually silent after Akshat's outburst. The anger that had flooded through him still lingered in the air, and Amrit was left standing in the hallway, staring at the door to the study room, her chest tight with regret. Her feet moved automatically, but her heart felt heavy as she approached the door. She knocked softly, hoping for any sign of movement, any sound that would indicate that Akshat would hear her, but all she received was silence.

"Akshat," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion, "I am sorry. I... I thought... I thought she was guilty, and... I just... I'm sorry. Please open the door. Please, Akshat."

But there was no reply. No sound from inside the room.

Amrit stood there for a few moments, her hand still resting on the door. She felt helpless, the weight of her actions sinking in. She had never seen him like that before, so raw, so broken, and the guilt washed over her like a tidal wave. She turned slowly and walked over to the sofa, her steps heavy, her mind reeling. She sank down, her knees pulled up to her chest as she hugged them tightly. Her tears had started to fall without her even realizing it, and now, she sat there, her heart in turmoil.

She couldn't understand why she had done it. Why she thought bringing that woman into their home would somehow make things better. Why had she let her emotions blind her to the reality of Akshat's past? And now... she could only imagine how much she had hurt him.

The door to the living room opened, and Nikhil stepped inside, his eyes immediately landing on Amrit sitting on the sofa, her face buried in her hands, silently crying. His concern flared, and he quickly walked over to her, sitting down beside her.

"Kya hua?" Nikhil asked gently, his tone full of concern.

Amrit wiped her tears quickly, not wanting to appear weak, but it was impossible to hide the sadness that had overtaken her. She tried to smile, but it faltered before it even reached her lips.

"Kuch nahi," she said quietly, her voice trembling, but Nikhil wasn't convinced. He stayed beside her, his presence comforting as he waited for her to speak.

For a few moments, there was a heavy silence between them. Amrit's mind was still spinning, but then, she turned her gaze toward Nikhil, her eyes tired but searching for some kind of understanding, something she could hold on to. She needed to talk, needed to let it out.

"I can trust you, right?" Amrit asked softly, her voice barely a whisper.

Nikhil's eyes softened, and he nodded without hesitation.

"Akshat... his mother left him when he was small, and he lives with his uncle and aunt," she said quietly, her eyes downcast as the reality of his past haunted her. The guilt in her voice was palpable, and Nikhil's expression softened as he listened.

"I know," Nikhil replied, his voice calm but knowing. "Preeti aunty ne bataya tha." His tone was gentle, but there was an undercurrent of understanding that made Amrit look up at him, surprised that he already knew.

She nodded slowly, taking a deep breath before continuing. "I met Shalini aunty today, Akshat's mother. I didn't know what to expect, but she... she cried. She said she was sorry, that she regretted everything, and I, I just..." Amrit's voice faltered, and she let out a shaky breath, the guilt overwhelming her. "I made the mistake of believing her. I believed she could change. I didn't even think about what Akshat must feel... I just, I let her words cloud my judgment."

Nikhil's face tightened slightly, and he looked at Amrit with an intensity that made her feel like she was being seen clearly, with no room for excuses. He shook his head slowly.

"You shouldn't have done this, Amrit," Nikhil said quietly but firmly, his words hitting her like a wave. "You can't just let someone walk into his life like that. Not when she's the one who hurt him. A mother who gives birth, but then abandons her child... she doesn't deserve a second chance. She doesn't get to walk back in like everything is okay. It's not that simple."

Amrit's heart ached with every word, but Nikhil wasn't done. He leaned forward slightly, his voice softening as he continued, "I understand, well, not fully, but I get it. My parents... they were always busy, fighting with each other, consumed by their work, never really there for me. I was always alone. And even now, I'm angry with them. I don't live with them anymore, and I can't even picture doing that. Yes I care for them, they don't earn anything and my mother's health is not well, so I provide them everything they need, just like they did to me , I still care for them and I can't imagine loosing them but still I am not able to forgive them. I can't imagine how Akshat sir must feel... living with that emptiness, being abandoned by the one person who should've loved him the most." He paused, his gaze shifting to the floor as if the weight of his own memories settled in. "It's not something you can just forget, or forgive, just like that."

Nikhil noticed the tears in her eyes and, with a sigh, he reached out to gently pat her head, a simple gesture that spoke volumes of the care he had for her. "Amrit," he said softly, his voice full of understanding, "try your best to apologize. I know he's angry now, but he won't be able to stay angry at you for long. He cares about you too much. Just give him some time. He'll come around."

Akshat sat in the dimly lit study room, his fingers tightly gripping the edges of the desk, as his mind drifted back to the painful memories of his childhood. His heart tightened as each image from the past replayed vividly in his mind. The weight of the memories pressed heavily on him, and his breath hitched as he closed his eyes, the flashbacks taking him back to a time when everything was different-when he was just a child, desperate for the love and attention of a mother who was too absorbed in her own world to care.

The flashback hit him like a jolt of electricity.

He was only three years old, a small frame standing in the kitchen, his stomach growling with hunger. His tiny hands pulled at his mother's skirt as she stood at the counter, engaged in a conversation with someone on the phone.

"Mom..." Akshat's voice was soft and hesitant, but he was too hungry to stay silent. "Mumma, I'm hungry."

Shalini barely spared him a glance. She was lost in her conversation, her voice rising with excitement as she spoke to someone on the other end.

"Go to your father," she said dismissively, waving him off. "I have more important things to do."

Akshat's small eyes welled up with tears as he walked over to his father, who was sitting in the living room, immersed in his own world, papers and documents scattered across the table. Akshat stood there, his little voice barely above a whisper.

"Papa, I'm hungry."

His father didn't look up, annoyance creeping into his voice as he glanced at his son, his patience worn thin.

"Stop wasting my time, Akshat. If you ask me again, I'll slap you," his father snapped, not even bothering to lift his gaze from the papers.

Akshat's heart sank. He turned away, feeling the weight of rejection and the coldness of his parents' indifference. With a small sigh, he shuffled into the kitchen. His tiny hands fumbled with the cupboards, desperate to find something to eat. But there were no biscuits left, only empty packets. His stomach ached with hunger, and he slumped to the floor, exhausted and defeated.

The tears fell silently as he lay there, drifting to sleep on an empty stomach, alone in the quiet of the house that never felt like home.

Akshat was five years old now, his small frame barely able to carry the weight of the hurt he felt. He stood in the living room, holding his toy in his hands, watching as Shalini prepared herself for yet another night out. She was dressed in a beautiful, expensive gown, her hair styled to perfection, and yet, Akshat's gaze was on her, waiting for her to notice him.

"Mumma..." he called softly, his voice full of need. "Mumma, look at me!"

Shalini didn't even turn around. She continued to apply lipstick, her movements graceful and practiced.

"Not now, Akshat. Go play somewhere," she said without looking at him.

He stood there, his small heart aching as he watched other children with their mothers, feeling a pang of longing. Suddenly, an idea crossed his mind-a desperate attempt to get her attention.

He found the sharpener blade in his room and, in a moment of confusion and pain, he pressed it to his palm. He watched, wide-eyed, as the blood began to flow from the wound, and he rushed to Shalini, holding his bleeding hand out to her.

"Mumma, I'm hurt. It's paining..."

Shalini's eyes flicked to him for just a moment before she sighed, irritated.

"Why do you always have to be such a headache, Akshat?" she snapped, her voice cold. "I have a party to go to. You're not going to ruin my evening with your tantrums."

She didn't even offer to tend to his wound. Instead, she shoved him away, her indifference cutting deeper than the pain in his hand.

As he sat on the floor, the blood dripping onto the carpet, Akshat tried to hold back his tears. He didn't understand why she didn't care. He thought that maybe he had made her upset, so he rushed to his room, grabbed a piece of paper, and scribbled out a card.

"I'm sorry, Mumma," he had written in childish handwriting. He wanted to apologize, to make her love him, to make everything better.

But when he gave it to her, she didn't even look at it. She tossed the card aside, like it was nothing more than a nuisance.

Without a word, she walked out the door, leaving him there, alone once again.

He was six years old now, and Shalini had promised him they would go to the fair. He was excited, his small hands holding onto hers as they walked through the crowded streets. But as they entered the fairgrounds, something changed. Shalini, caught up in the excitement of the festivities, became distracted, her attention diverted by her friends, the music, the lights.

Before Akshat knew it, she was gone, lost in the crowd. His heart began to race, his small body trembling with fear.

"Mumma?" he called out, looking around frantically. "Mumma, where are you?"

But there was no answer. The sounds of the fair-the laughter, the music, the shouts-became a blur as Akshat wandered aimlessly, the fear sinking deeper into his chest. The crowds pressed in on him, and he could no longer see any familiar faces.

He stood there, paralyzed with fear, his tiny body shaking. Hours passed, and the sun began to set. He had not eaten, not drunk anything. He was lost, alone in the sea of people, and the fear clawed at him.

"Mumma, please come back," he whispered, his voice barely audible above the noise of the fair.

But she never returned. The entire day passed, and Akshat was left trembling, lost in the crowd, the emptiness growing inside him.

Akshat's body stiffened as the flashback of that horrendous night crashed into his mind like a tidal wave. He could almost hear the voices again, echoing in his ears, the cruel words that had haunted him for years.

"Your mother is not here, nor your father, no one cares about you... no one will come and save you. Come here, we will make you happy."

The words were like a poison, dripping into his mind, infecting him with fear, pain, and confusion. He squeezed his eyes shut, but the images wouldn't stop. His forehead was drenched in sweat, and his breath came in ragged, shallow gasps. He could feel the terror that had consumed him that night creeping up his spine. It was the night his world had shattered, the night when everything he had known to be safe and familiar was ripped away from him.

His small, vulnerable frame had been left alone, with no one to protect him, no one to shield him from the cruelty of the world. His mother had abandoned him, and his father... his father was just as distant. The people who should have loved him, who should have cared for him, had walked away, leaving him to face the horrors of the world alone.

He had been a child, just a little boy, and yet the world had treated him like nothing more than an object-something to be used, something to be discarded.

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