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Vishakha and Rakshit’s  gaze shifted towards the window. Slowly, they walked towards it and peeped outside. Their eyes widened in shock when they saw Akshat hanging from the window ledge, gripping onto the edge with a mix of fear and desperation.

"Hello!! Everyone, aap sab yahan?" Akshat stammered, his eyes darting around as he noticed not just Vishakha and Rakshit but also Krishiv, Vedant, Vihaan, Preeti, Anika, Kavya, and Nandini standing behind them. He gulped nervously, knowing there was no way out of this.

"Akshat, tu yahan kya kar raha hai?" Vishakha asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

Akshat blinked rapidly, scrambling for an excuse. "W...wo actually...haan! Yahan kabootar the apna ghar bana ke...toh bhaga raha tha!" He let out a forced chuckle, trying to sound convincing.

Rakshit raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Kyun? Ab professor se safai karmchari ban gaya hai kya?"

"Upar aa pehle," Krishiv ordered, shaking his head. "Aaj tera hisaab-kitaab hoga."

Akshat sighed in defeat, realizing he had no escape. He hesitated for a second before reluctantly grabbing Krishiv and Vedant’s hands as they pulled him inside the room. He straightened his shirt, avoiding everyone’s piercing gazes.

"Ab koi bata sakta hai ki yeh sab kya ho raha hai?" Vishakha demanded, looking at everyone expectantly. "Aur tu yahan kar kya raha tha, Akshat? Koi samjhayega mujhe?"

Akshat exhaled heavily, his gaze flickering towards Amrit. He knew there was no way to hide the truth anymore. Amrit gave him a slight nod, signaling that they had to come clean.

"Maa, wo..." Akshat started hesitantly.

Before he could continue, Vihaan spoke up, his voice firm. "Maine bataya toh tha aapko."

Vishakha and Rakshit’s heads snapped towards Vihaan in shock. "Kya?"

"Haan didi," Preeti chimed in. "Hum sab aapko uss din batane aaye the, par aapne jaisa react kiya, kisi ki himmat nahi padi."

"Aur yeh sab abhi se nahi hai, bahut pehle se hai," Anika added, her voice calm yet firm.

Vedant nodded. "Sabse pehle Krishiv aur Anika ko pata chala, phir mujhe, phir Vihaan, Mummy-Papa ko. Uske baad Kavya aur Nandini ko."

Akshat’s jaw dropped. "What?! In sabko pata tha?kab kaise kahan? Aur hamse baat kyun nahi ki kisi ne…kahin choti shaitan ne to nahi bataya sabko." His mind was reeling. He turned to look at Amrit, only to find her staring back at him with the same confusion.

"Nandini didi ya Kavya didi ne kuch bola kyun nahi kabhi?" Amrit thought. "Aur agar pata tha toh Nikhil ki birthday planning mere paas kyun karne aaye the? Chal kya raha hai yahan?"

Akshat clenched his fists, trying to process everything. "Inhe pata kaise chala?" he wondered.

Krishiv answered his unspoken question, "Uss din jab main yahan Bulbul ko chocolate dene aaya tha, tab Akshat ne kaha tha ki usse nikalna hai. Woh 10 minute pehle chala gaya tha, par nahi... woh yahin tha. Maine dekha..."

He then proceeded to narrate how he had seen Akshat and Amrit behaving like a couple, how their gestures and expressions had given away their secret. As he spoke, Vishakha and Rakshit looked at each other, shock evident on their faces.

Meanwhile, Pratibha, who had been silently listening, frowned slightly. "Yeh Damad ji aur Amrit apne gharwalon se rishta chhupa rahe the kya? Par kyun?" she thought to herself.

The room was now filled with tension, every eye fixed on Akshat and Amrit, waiting for an explanation. Akshat exhaled deeply, rubbing the back of his neck. He glanced at Amrit, silently asking if they should finally reveal the truth. Amrit, still overwhelmed, simply stared back, equally lost in thought.

The air was thick with anticipation. It was finally time for the truth to come out.

Preeti, who had been silent until now, finally spoke up. Her voice was firm. "I also saw them together... at the mall," she said, making Akshat and Amrit stiffen.

Vishakha and Rakshit turned their attention to her. "Mall?" Vishakha asked, her voice edged with disbelief.

Preeti nodded. "Yes, that day when Vihaan, Vikram, and I went shopping. We were at a store selecting shirts when I noticed Amrit there. At first, we thought she was just shopping alone, but then we saw Akshat with her."

Amrit closed her eyes, realizing where this was going. Akshat exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair.

Preeti continued, her tone serious. "We thought maybe they just ran into each other by coincidence, but then we saw Amrit picking out shirts for him, asking for his opinion, and he was agreeing to her choices without hesitation. She even choose a perfume for him, then sunglasses."

Vishakha and Rakshit exchanged glances, the weight of this revelation settling in.

Vihaan, who had been listening, added, "We didn't want to jump to conclusions, so we kept following them. They went to a restaurant afterward."

Vikram nodded. "And the way they were talking... it wasn't just friendly. Amrit was saying something about Nikhil being 'kabab mein haddi,' and they were discussing things like a couple."

A tense silence filled the room. Amrit clenched her fists in her lap, and Akshat sighed deeply, closing his eyes for a moment.

As silence settled in after Preeti’s revelation, Kavya and Nandini exchanged glances. Kavya hesitated for a moment before finally speaking up.

"We also saw them together… at a saree shop," Kavya said, her voice measured.

Amrit’s breath hitched, and Akshat pressed his lips together, already anticipating what was coming next.

Nandini took a deep breath and continued, "That day, Kavya and I were shopping when we saw Amrit and Akshat bhai at the store. At first, we thought it was nothing, but then… we noticed Akshat bhai selecting sarees for her."

Vishakha’s eyebrows furrowed in disbelief. "Akshat was selecting sarees?" she repeated slowly.

Akshat lowered his gaze. "Maa…" he started, but Nandini kept going, her voice devoid of any amusement.

"They weren’t just casually looking around. Amrit was asking him which saree would look good on her, and Akshat bhaiya was carefully selecting and giving his opinions, like it actually mattered to him."

Kavya nodded. "And the way they were talking… it didn’t seem like just two friends shopping together. They were behaving like a couple….in fact Jo saree Bhaiya ne select ki thi wahi saree Amrit ne pehni thi"

A heavy silence filled the room.

Akshat exhaled slowly, rubbing his temple, while Amrit closed her eyes, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her. Both of them could feel the weight of everyone’s stares on them.

Vishakha and Rakshit remained frozen, their expressions unreadable. Rakshit’s hands clenched slightly, while Vishakha’s lips parted as if she wanted to say something, but no words came out.

The truth was unfolding piece by piece, and there was no way to avoid it anymore.

Krishiv took a deep breath, his expression serious as he turned toward Vishakha and Rakshit. "Actually, we wanted to show you proof on Akshat’s birthday… but har baar ye log bach jaate the."

Akshat and Amrit exchanged a brief, uneasy glance, realizing where this was going.

Vishakha’s brows furrowed in confusion. "Proof?" she asked, her voice laced with disbelief.

Krishiv nodded. "Aapko yaad hoga birthday party mein hum sab baar-baar aapko kheech rahe the apne saath… yahi reason tha. We knew that record karne ke baad bhi aap believe nahi karte aur usme utna clear nhi dikhta jo samne se dikh raha tha isiliye ham aapko dikhana chahte the."

Vishakha’s mind drifted back to that evening. Vihaan, Krishiv, Vedant, Preeti, and Vikram had repeatedly insisted she come with them, claiming it was urgent. She had been busy handling guests, and by the time she finally agreed, they had nothing to show her. She had dismissed it as childish excitement back then.

"You mean that night…?" she whispered, her mind piecing everything together.

"Yes, didi," Preeti confirmed. "We had seen something that would’ve made everything clear, but just when we thought we had proof, these two managed to escape.”

Vishakha looked at Akshat. Her eyes were filled with anger.

Before he could utter a word, a sharp slap landed on his cheek. The sound echoed in the room, leaving everyone in shock. Amrit gasped, stepping forward instinctively.

"Aunty!" she called out in shock, but Vishakha immediately raised her palm, stopping her.

"Tum beech mein mat bolo! Main apne bete se baat kar rahi hoon," Vishakha said strictly, her voice firm and cold.

"Maa, aap… main sab bata deta aapko," Akshat tried to explain, his voice pleading.

"Tujhe sharam nahi aayi ye sab karte hue? Upar se keh raha hai mujhe sab bata deta!" Vishakha snapped, her anger only intensifying.

"Tumse aisi ghatiya harkat ki umeed nahi thi, Akshat," Rakshit said, shaking his head in disappointment.

Aur tum…" Vishakha turned toward Amrit, her gaze sharp. "Aur tum? Ek married ladki hote hue apne hi professor ke saath extra-marital affair kar rahi ho?"

Her words dropped like a bombshell, shocking Akshat and Amrit to the core. They looked at each other, their eyes wide in disbelief.

"Akshat, tu kaise kar sakta hai aisa? Amrit is married! Kuch toh sharam karta!" Krishiv said, his tone laced with disbelief.

"And tere jagah koi aisa insaan hota jisne ye sab face nahi kiya hota toh samajh aata ki usse dard nahi pata dhokhe ka. Par Akshat, tu? Uss Kritika ne yahi cheez tere saath nahi ki thi kya?" Vedant said, his voice filled with hurt.

"Main toh sabko example deta tha aapka," Vihaan added, his voice low but firm. "Ki mere bhaiya aise hain, apne rules ko kabhi nahi todte, apni professional aur personal life ko alag rakhte hain. Par nahi… I was wrong."

"And Akshat, she is married! Kuch toh sharam karta tu!" Vikram’s voice carried sheer disappointment. "Hum tumhare dushman nahi hain. Agar tere mann mein kuch tha toh aa kar share karta. Hum samjhate tujhe ki attraction aur pyaar mein kya farq hai… par nahi! Tujhe iss se attraction ho gaya aur tu extra-marital affair mein involve ho gaya."

"Ek baar ko ye samajh aata hai ki Amrit ki umar kam hai, maybe usse tujhse attraction ho gaya hoga kyunki tu ghar pe bhi milta tha usse aur uske saath uska pati nahi rehta tha…" Preeti said. "I know this is also very wrong, par ek baar ko hum iski jaldi shaadi ho jaane ko dosh dete hain. Par tu? Tujhe toh apni hadd nahi bhulni thi ki ye sirf teri student hai… plus married hai!"

"And Amrit, tum… how could you cheat on Nikhil?" Kavya asked, her voice filled with disbelief.

"Nikhil?" Pratibha looked confused, about to ask something, but Nandini interrupted.

"Itna accha ladka hai woh, aur tum usse dhokha de rahi ho?" Nandini said, her disappointment evident.

"Amrit, agar shaadi nibhaani nahi thi toh ki hi kyun?" Anika questioned, shaking her head.

"Tumhari Maa toh kitni acchi thi… itni shareef thi, par tum?" Vishakha’s voice was filled with disgust. "Agar tumhe Akshat pasand hi tha toh shaadi kyun ki? Aur maan lo shaadi ke baad pyaar hua, toh Nikhil ko dhokhe mein kyun rakha? Sharam nahi aati itni ghatiya harkat karte hue?"

Akshat turned to look at Amrit. Her eyes were teary, her lips trembling as she tried to speak. But no one was listening. No one was giving her or him a chance to explain.

"Hamaari hi galti hai…" Vishakha said bitterly. "Pehle pata hota ki tum kaisi ladki ho, toh tumse koi matlab rakhne bhi nahi aate yahan!"

"Enough!!"

Akshat’s voice boomed in the room, making everyone startle. His fists were clenched, his eyes blazing with anger.

"Aap log chup rahenge thoda?" he shouted, his chest rising and falling with rage. "Kabse blame kar rahe hain bina poori baat jaane!"

There was complete silence as everyone looked at him, shocked.

"Amrit aur mera affair nahi chal raha hai!" Akshat declared, his voice firm. "We are husband and wife! Patni hai ye meri! Main iska pati hoon, koi boyfriend nahi!"

Gasps filled the air as everyone’s eyes widened in shock.

"Shaadi hui hai hamari!" Akshat continued, his voice unwavering. "Sindoor aur mangalsutra mere naam ka pehenti hai ye!”

Vishakha and Rakshit’s expressions turned blank as the weight of his words sank in.

"I know, galti aap log ki nahi hai, hamari hai," Akshat admitted, his voice softer now. "Par at least hame chance toh dijiye batane ka!"

Silence. Absolute silence.

The words shaadi, husband-wife, patni echoed in everyone’s ears as they struggled to process the truth.

Vishakha stared at Akshat, her face reflecting utter disbelief. "Kya? Shaadi?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Kab? Aur Nikhil? Aur ye baat chupai kyun? Ho kya raha hai, koi samjhayega?" Rakshit demanded, his patience wearing thin.

Akshat took a deep breath and looked at his parents. "Papa, main batata hoon… Jab main Vihaan ki jagah Bareilly gaya tha deal ke liye, tab maine aap logon ko bataya tha ki wahan ek budhe ki shaadi ho rahi thi…" He paused, glancing at Amrit before continuing.

"Mujhe pata chala ki dulhan koi aur nahi, Amrit hai."

The revelation sent shockwaves through the room.

Everyone stared at him, their expressions frozen in shock.

"Main Amrit se baat karne uske room mein chala gaya. Maine usse pucha ki ye sab kya ho raha hai, to isne kaha ki ye shadi zabardasti ho rahi hai. Her chacha chachi sold her to that man…" Akshat’s voice cracked with the weight of the truth.

Akshat clenched his fists, his eyes dark with anger as he recalled that horrific moment as he narrated everything that happened there."Logon ne humein galat samjh liya. Unhone Amrit ko characterless kehna shuru kar diya… Bahut ghatiya batein boli uske baare mein… Main uska support kar raha tha, but all they could do is blame Amrit for trapping me also?'" Akshat’s voice was laced with frustration.

He turned to face his mother and father. "Usi waqt maine Amrit se shaadi kar li. Taaki koi bhi ispe aur ilzaam na laga sake!" His words echoed in the silent room.

Vishakha took a step back, her hands trembling. "Shaadi kar li? Tumne bina humein bataye shaadi kar li, Akshat?"

Akshat exhaled sharply. "Koi option nahi tha Maa and I knew she would be alone, if I left her, and I can't leave someone in the same state where I was once. That's why I married her. Phir main isse yahan apne flat par le aaya. Humne decide kiya tha ki Amrit jab apni graduation complete kar legi, tab aapko sab bataenge… Par kuch din pehle humne decide kiya ki uske first-year exams ke baad aapko bataenge… Par usse pehle hi yeh sab ho gaya."

He ran a frustrated hand through his hair. "Yahi reason tha because of which I had to stay away from Singhania mansion even at night. Mujhe aap logon se jhooth bolna pada."

The room remained silent. No one knew how to react. Their son, whom they had always trusted, had hidden something so significant from them.

Finally, Krishiv spoke up, his voice uncertain. "Par wo Nikhil?"

Akshat let out a deep breath. "Wo sab jhooth hai… It’s just a coincidence ki Amrit ne jo picture dikhai thi aur jis job ke baare mein bola tha, sab kuch Nikhil se match ho gaya. Usse humein dekh ke samajh aa gaya tha ki hum jhooth bol rahe hain. Aur kyunki usse yahan zyada salary mil rahi thi aur usse paison ki zaroorat thi, to usne ye continue rakha."

Vishakha’s lips quivered as she looked at Amrit, then back at Akshat. "But what was the need to hide this?”

“It was my fault aunty, I asked him to hide this marriage. I thought you all would be conservative and I wanted to complete my studies first…that's why.” Amrit chimed in, taking her husband's side.

A heavy silence filled the room, suffocating and thick with unspoken remorse. No one knew how to react, how to undo the damage their words had caused. Moments ago, they had been throwing accusations without pause, their anger blinding them to the truth. And now, as Akshat’s words settled in, guilt weighed upon their hearts.

Vishakha looked away, her hands trembling slightly. She had slapped her son, accused him of something terrible, and spoken harshly to a girl who had already suffered so much. Her throat tightened as she recalled the words she had uttered just moments ago.

Amrit stood frozen, her fingers clutching the hem of her dress. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away, refusing to let them fall. The pain of being misunderstood, of being blamed for something she never did, was still fresh.

Rakshit now looked ashamed. He had been the first to question Akshat’s character, to call him out without listening. His hands fell to his sides as he sighed.

“Humne bina soche samjhe tum dono pe ilzaam laga diya,” he admitted, his voice heavy with regret.

Krishiv lowered his gaze, his own words replaying in his mind. He had dragged Akshat’s past into this, comparing him to the betrayal he himself had suffered years ago. Now, realizing that Akshat had actually protected Amrit, he felt disgusted with himself.

Vedant took a step back, shaking his head at his own impulsiveness. “Hame tujhse baat karni chahiye thi.”

Vihaan swallowed hard, his usual confidence shattered. “Bhaiya... I am so sorry..maine pata nahi kya bakwas ki.. I am sorry.”

Vikram sighed, rubbing his forehead. “Agar tumne pehle hi bata diya hota, to shayad yeh sab nahi hota, par hamne bhi tumhe ek mauka nahi diya samjhane ka. Hum bus judge karte rahe.”

Preeti wiped her moist eyes. She had been so harsh with her words, especially towards Amrit. Now, knowing the truth, regret gnawed at her. “Amru, I am sorry baby... maine tumhe bina soche samjhe kitna suna diya….ek taraf beti bolti thi aur yahan ek baar bina baat kiye seedha ilzaam laga diya.”

Kavya and Nandini exchanged glances before stepping forward. “Humne bhi tum dono ko galat samjha. Tum dono pe bina kisi proof ke itne bade ilzaam laga diye,” Kavya admitted softly.

Nandini nodded, looking at Amrit with regret. “Aur tumhare bare me jo bola... wo sab galat tha.”

Pratibha, who had remained silent all this while, finally spoke up. “Amrit beta, Damad ji aap dono ko sach nahi chupana tha….kabhi na kabhi to sabko pata chal hi jata ab dekha na kya hua…itna sab sun na pada.”

Vishakha exhaled deeply, taking slow steps toward Akshat and Amrit. Her eyes held unshed tears as she placed a trembling hand on Akshat’s cheek where she had slapped him. “Sorry.” she whispered.

Akshat looked at her, his own emotions swirling within. He placed his hand over hers and nodded slightly. “It was not your fault.”

Vishakha turned to Amrit, who was looking at the floor, still struggling with the weight of everything that had happened. Vishakha reached out and gently lifted Amrit’s chin. “Beta, please forgive me... maine tumhare character pe sawal uthaya, tumhe galat samjha.”

Amrit shook her head, trying to hold back her tears. “Nahi Aunty, meri bhi galti thi... hume sach pehle hi bata dena chahiye tha.”

Rakshit finally spoke, looking around at everyone. “Ab jo bhi ho,.Ab koi bhi aur misunderstanding nahi honi chahiye..and I am so happy for my son ki usne apne past ko peeche chhor kar apna future acha banaya.”

Everyone nodded, a silent agreement passing through the room. The wounds caused by their words wouldn’t heal instantly, but this was the first step towards mending the broken trust.

Vedant stepped forward first, a soft smile playing on his lips as he pulled Akshat into a tight hug.

"Congratulations, bhai! Sach kahun toh pehle gussa tha ki tune bataya nahi, par ab soch raha hoon ki jo kiya, sahi kiya. Amrit is the best girl for you," Vedant said, patting Akshat’s back.

Akshat smiled gratefully and hugged him back.

Krishiv walked up, his eyes reflecting admiration. "Tu to bollywood hero nikla. Kisi ki izzat ke liye bina soche samjhe uss se apni zindagi jod di. I'm proud of you." He hugged Akshat tightly and then turned towards Amrit. "Aur tum... tumhe bhabhi kehna padega ab!"

Vihaan, who had been standing with his arms crossed, finally broke into a grin. "Bhaiya, shadi serial jaisi ho gayi aapki! Par aapki shadi me itna sab plan Kiya par yahan Na haldi, na baraat, na koi dhoom-dham!" He teased before pulling Akshat into a hug. "Par jo bhi ho, aap sahi insaan ke saath hai, aur yahi sabse important hai."

He turned towards Amrit with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Par ek problem hai! Mujhse chhoti ho, to mai tumhe bhabhi kaise bolun?"

Preeti rolled her eyes and smacked his arm. "Oyee, rishte me bhabhi hai to bhabhi hi bulayega!"

Vihaan sighed dramatically. "Theek hai, theek hai… Namaste, bhabhi!" he said with folded hands, making everyone chuckle.

Anika giggled and wrapped her arm around Amrit’s shoulder in a side hug. "To ab se Amrit ko bhabhi bolna padega... kyun, jethani ji?" she teased.

Kavya nodded enthusiastically. "Haan, hame bhi! Akshat bhaiya ko bhaiya bolte hain, to Amrit ko bhabhi bulana banta hai."

As everyone shared a laugh, Vishakha suddenly spoke up, her voice laced with emotion. "Mujhe ek shikayat hai!"

Everyone turned to look at her.

"Kya hua, Maa?" Akshat asked, his brows furrowed.

Vishakha sighed dramatically, shaking her head. "Tune shadi kar li… aur mujhe bataya bhi nahi. Mera sapna tha ki mai teri shadi ki ek ek rasam karungi. Tujhe khud se sehra pehnaungi, tere liye sherwani select karungi. Par sab sapne adhure reh gaye."

Akshat lowered his gaze guiltily, while Amrit fidgeted with her dupatta.

Preeti, not one to stay quiet, sighed dramatically. "Same here, didi! Kya kya socha tha… Vedant to shadi kar nahi raha."

At this, Vedant immediately turned to look at Nandini, who looked back at him for a brief second before quickly shifting her gaze elsewhere. He, too, looked away, clearing his throat.

Preeti continued, "To maine Akshat ki shadi ke sapne sajaye the… par… Par ek minute!" She suddenly clapped her hands together. "Ham inn dono ki shadi dobara karva sakte hain!"

Rakshit immediately caught on to the idea. "Bilkul! Mai bhi soch raha tha ki inki shadi dhoom-dham se dobara karvayein."

Akshat and Amrit exchanged a shy glance, their cheeks heating up as the entire family nodded in agreement.

"Par papa," Akshat spoke hesitantly. "Amrit ke exams aa rahe hain..she won't be able to focus on studies."

Rakshit nodded in understanding. "Haan, toh exams ke baad ki date nikalvate hain pandit ji se!"

Preeti suddenly turned to Amrit. "To ab kya karna hai? I mean, Amrit yahi rahegi ya apne ghar jayegi? I mean, sasural?"

Amrit, feeling everyone’s eyes on her, hesitated before speaking softly, "Jaisa aap sab bolen."

Vishakha smiled warmly and stepped forward. "Nahi… abhi nahi. Exams aa rahe hain, toh jo hoga, exam ke baad. Tab tak tum yahi rahogi."

Amrit nodded obediently.

Vishakha then looked at Akshat, who was staring at her with puppy eyes. She raised a brow. "Tum aise shakal mat banao! Tumhari patni ke paas aane se mana nahi kiya hai tumhe."

Akshat turned red while everyone burst into laughter, making the atmosphere lighter and full of joy.

As night fell, the dining table was set, and the delicious aroma of freshly prepared food filled Preeti’s house. The entire family gathered, their chatter and laughter creating a lively atmosphere. Vaibhav, Rajat, and Preksha had also joined, making the evening even more energetic.

Kavya, with Bulbul went to a party at Kavya's best friend's house.

Just as everyone was about to begin, Krishiv smirked and glanced at Amrit.

“Bhabhi aap ka sautela pati kahan reh gaya?” he teased, causing a few chuckles around the table.

Amrit, caught off guard, nearly choked on her water. “A... wo… office hoga,” she said hesitantly, trying to mask her discomfort.

Preeti raised an eyebrow. “Usko bataya hai na dinner ka?” she asked.

“Haan,” Amrit replied quickly.

Vihaan leaned forward, eyes twinkling mischievously. “Aur baki kuch to nahi bataya?”

Amrit vigorously shook her head. “Nahi!”

Just then, the main door creaked open.

“Hello, Everyone!!” Nikhil’s enthusiastic voice boomed as he stepped inside, his usual overconfident grin plastered on his face.

Everyone turned toward him, exchanging knowing glances while maintaining neutral expressions.

“Hello, Nikhil!” They all greeted him in unison.

Akshat, who was comfortably seated, barely looked up, his face unreadable.

Nikhil, oblivious to the situation, clapped his hands together. “Arre Akshat sir, aap yahan kya kar rahe hain? Aap udhar baith jaiye mai apni wife ke bagal me baith jaun!” he said dramatically.

Amrit, Akshat, and Vidya facepalmed at the same time.

“Haan wahi to Akshat hat jao wahan se.” Preeti said, controlling her laugh.

Krishiv smirked. “Haan haan, sahi baat hai Nikhil, tum hi batao, tum dono ki love story kaise shuru hui?” he asked, feigning curiosity.

Nikhil’s face lit up. “Arre bhai, kya love story thi! Matlab mujhe sharam aa jati hai!”

Vedant leaned in, pretending to be intrigued. “Acha? Toh batao kaise mile the tum dono?”

Nikhil cracked his knuckles. “Toh hua yun ki ek din Amrit ji ek restaurant me akeli bethi thi, thodi udaas lag rahi thi. Maine socha, yeh suar jaisi …I mean pari jaisi ladki toh itni sundar hai, udaas kaise ho sakti hai? Maine jaake pucha, ‘Madam, ek coffee share karein?’ Isne kaha haan why not.”

Amrit shut her eyes in frustration, muttering under her breath, “Pitega ye aaj!”

Vidya pressed her lips together, struggling to contain her laughter, while Akshat rolled his eyes.

Preeti pretended to be deeply invested. “Wah! Phir kya hua?”

Nikhil, now completely immersed in his tale, continued, “Phir kya? Maine Amrit ki aankhon me dekha, aur unhone bhi meri taraf dekha… ek pal ke liye toh sab kuch slow motion me ho gaya! Jaise kisi romantic film ka scene ho!”

Vihaan chuckled. “Matlab bas ek nazar mili aur shaadi ho gayi?”

Nikhil grinned. “Arre nahi bhai! Pehle dosti hui, phir pyaar hua… phir ek din maine propose kar diya, aur Amrit ne haan bol diya! Bas phir dono ne socha ki shaadi kar leni chahiye.”

Everyone exchanged glances, barely suppressing their laughter.

Rajat smirked. “Arre waah, matlab full Bollywood style hai tumhari story!”

“Bilkul! Aapko kya lagta hai, sirf movies me aisa hota hai? Life bhi ek movie hi toh hai!” Nikhil said, winking at Amrit.

Preeti tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Par Amrit ne toh kuch aur hi bataya tha…”

Nikhil’s smile faltered for a second. “A… aisa kya bataya?”

Preksha added, “Haan, usne toh kaha tha ki tum dono ki shaadi ek situation me hui thi…”

Nikhil quickly composed himself and laughed. “Arre haan! Matlab, situation toh thi hi, lekin feelings bhi thi na! Jab aap kisi se sachha pyaar karte hain na, toh situations apne aap hi ban jati hain!”

Krishiv smirked, clearly enjoying this. “Matlab tum keh rahe ho ki tum dono ek doosre se sachha pyaar karte ho?”

“Of course!” Nikhil declared dramatically, placing a hand on his heart. “Meri jaan hai Amrit!”

Vidya finally lost control and covered her face with her hands to hide her laughter. Akshat let out a deep sigh, shaking his head.

Vedant decided to push further. “Acha, ek baat batao, shaadi ke baad pehli trip kaha ki thi?”

Nikhil blinked, caught off guard. “Woh… woh honeymoon trip abhi plan kar rahe hain! Matlab, itni jaldi kya hai na!”

Vihaan smirked. “Honeymoon se pehle toh shagun ki pehli rasoi hoti hai… kya banaya tha Amrit ne?”

Nikhil fumbled, looking at Amrit for help. She simply folded her arms, watching him struggle.

“Woh… haan! Amrit ji ne kheer banayi thi!” he said confidently.

Amrit raised an eyebrow. “Sach me?”

Nikhil nodded quickly. “Bilkul! Aur maine teen bowl kha li thi!”

Vishakha, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. “Wah, par Amrit toh kehti hai usse kheer banana hi nahi aata infact kuch nahi aata!”

“A…w….haan matlb meri mummy ne help ki thi.” Nikhil said, making an excuse.

“Ohhhh….to ye batao kitna jhooth bolna hai aur.” Vihaan asked.

“Bas kuch din phir…….”  Nikhil’s face turned pale as realization hit him. He looked around at everyone’s amused expressions and then at Akshat, who smirked at him.

“Don’t tell me ki aap logon ko sab pata chal gaya?” he asked hesitantly.

Krishiv folded his arms. “Bohot pehle se!”

Everyone slowly turned their gaze toward Nikhil, their expressions serious. The air grew tense.

Krishiv cracked his knuckles. "Toh Nikhil… jhooth bolna bohot pasand hai tujhe?"

Vihaan folded his arms, tilting his head slightly. "Itne bade bade kahaniyan bana rahe the?”

Rajat narrowed his eyes. "Aise logon ko chhorna nahi chahiye…kisi aur ki wife ko apna bata rahe the"

Vedant stepped forward, rolling up his sleeves. "Bilkul!"

Nikhil’s face turned pale as he looked around. Amrit had her arms crossed, looking unimpressed. Vidya was shaking her head in disappointment. Akshat leaned back in his chair, smirking, watching everything unfold with amusement.

Nikhil gulped loudly, stepping back. "Arre… arre bhai! Maine kuch nahi kiya! Ye dono, haan haan, yeh dono ne bola tha jhooth bolne ko! Kasam se!" He pointed wildly at Amrit and Akshat, who raised their eyebrows in disbelief.

Amrit scoffed. "Oh really?"

Akshat smirked. "Ab hum tumhe bol rahe hain, sach bol."

Nikhil raised his hands in surrender. "Arre meri toh majboori thi! Wo… wo… haan! Main bataya tha na inn dono ko pehle!"

Preeti took a step closer, her voice dangerously low. "Toh phir yeh filmy kahaniyan kyun suna raha tha?"

Nikhil swallowed hard, his eyes darting between everyone. "Main kya karta bhai?! Aap log sab sunn rahe the toh mujhe laga kahani aur interesting banani chahiye!"

Krishiv took a menacing step forward. "Interesting? Ab ham ek kahani sunate hain.”

Vihaan cracked his fingers. "Haan, thoda action bhi hoga usme."

Nikhil stumbled back, shaking his head violently. "Arre nahi! Nahi bhai, please mujhe mat maaro! Meri shaadi bhi nahi hui abhi tak!"

Vaibhav raised an eyebrow. "Toh problem kya hai? Shaadi ke pehle pitai bhi ho sakti hai."

Everyone else hummed in agreement, nodding.

Nikhil panicked, looking for an escape. "Nahi nahi nahi! Aap log gusse mein galat decision le rahe ho!"

Vedant took another step. "Nahi baba, bilkul sahi decision hai."

Nikhil turned to Amrit, almost pleading. "Amrit , dekho na! Bachao mujhe!"

Amrit tapped her chin, pretending to think. "Hmm… sochna padega…"

Nikhil's soul almost left his body. "Kya?! Matlab?! sochna pad raha hai? Gaddar kahin ki."

Just when Nikhil was about to drop to his knees, Preeti burst into laughter, followed by everyone else. Akshat shook his head, finally standing up. "Bas bas, bohot tang kar liya isko.”

Everyone burst into laughter. Nikhil looked around in disbelief as everyone was laughing, the serious expressions completely gone. He gasped, clutching his chest.

Preeti chuckled. “Chalo chalo, dinner start karte hain,”

The laughter continued as everyone finally began their meal, while Nikhil muttered under his breath, “Mujhe maaf kar do bhai!” making everyone chuckle even more.

As soon as Amrit stepped inside the apartment, Akshat turned around and locked the door, his fingers lingering on the knob for a second before he turned to face Amrit.

A slow, satisfied smile spread across his face as he exhaled deeply. A different kind of relief settled over him—one he hadn’t experienced in a long time.

"Pehli baar iss gate se aa raha hoon," he murmured, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Amrit, who had just placed her handbag on the table, turned to look at him and let out a soft chuckle.

"Acha? Kaisa lag raha hai?" she teased, raising an eyebrow.

Instead of answering, he walked towards her, closing the distance between them in a few easy strides. Before she could move away, he wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulling her into his embrace.

His chin rested lightly on her shoulder as he closed his eyes for a moment, breathing her in.

"I feel light," he admitted, his voice softer now. "Finally, no stress on us... ab hame aise chupke rehna nahi padega."

Amrit chuckled again, shaking her head slightly. "I can't even imagine what everyone must have been thinking about us all this time." She paused, biting her lip, before adding mischievously, "Affair! Wo bhi aapse!"

At that, Akshat's brows furrowed, and he pulled back slightly, just enough to cup her jaw with one hand, gently but firmly turning her face towards him.

"Wo bhi aapse kya matlab hai?" he asked, his dark eyes narrowing.

Amrit blinked innocently, suppressing a smile. "Agar hamari shaadi na hoti toh aap merese kabhi pyaar se baat bhi karte? Bade aaye affair chalane wale," she said, her voice laced with playful mockery.

Akshat huffed, his grip on her jaw tightening slightly in mock irritation. "Toh? That would have been inappropriate. You were my student," he pointed out matter-of-factly.

Amrit tilted her head, a smirk playing on her lips. "Accha? This isn’t inappropriate for you?" she challenged, gesturing toward their close proximity.

Akshat raised an eyebrow, amused by her teasing. His hands slipped lower, his hold around her tightening. His lips brushed lightly against her cheek as he whispered, "I was talking about that time."

He kissed her cheek again, slower this time, letting his lips linger for just a second longer.

"Abhi toh you are my wife," he continued, his voice deep and velvety.

"So everything is appropriate with you."

As soon as Amrit walked into the room, she turned to look at him with a teasing smirk.

"Chaliye, hatiye ab mujhe change karna hai," she said, shooing him away playfully.

Akshat chuckled, shaking his head as he stepped back. "Ji madam," he said, raising his hands in surrender before walking towards the wardrobe.

She disappeared into the closet to change, and after some time, when Akshat emerged from the washroom, running a towel through his damp hair, his eyes landed on her.

She was sitting on the bed, deeply engrossed in her notes, flipping through pages with furrowed brows.

A sigh escaped his lips.

Without a word, he walked up to her and, in one swift motion, closed the notebook.

"It's already late," he said, his voice gentle yet firm. "Aaj waise bhi college me extra time liya tha... tabiyat kharab karni hai kya?"

Amrit let out a frustrated sigh, rubbing her forehead.

"Kal ke seminar me bolna padega, Akshat..." she murmured, glancing at her closed notebook as if it held all the answers. "I’m feeling so nervous. Maine aaj tak stage pe kabhi kuch nahi kaha."

She looked up at him, hesitating before voicing the thought in her mind.

"Aisa nahi ho sakta ki mai apni research kisi ko de dun, aur wo keh de?" she asked hopefully.

Akshat huffed out a soft chuckle and took her hands in his, gently pulling her up to stand in front of him. He cupped her face with both hands and pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead.

"You will do your best," he whispered against her skin. "I know my Amrit... she can do anything."

His thumbs stroked her cheeks reassuringly. "Bas khud pe yakeen rakho."

Amrit exhaled slowly, nodding. His words, his touch, his presence—they were all a silent promise that she was not alone.

Later, as they lay on the bed, Amrit curled into his chest, her fingers tracing invisible patterns over his shirt.

That's when her eyes landed on a faint, reddish stain on his cheek.

Her heart clenched.

Frowning, she reached out and gently brushed her thumb over it.

"Thappad pad gaya aapko bina wajah," she murmured, guilt weighing in her voice.

Akshat chuckled softly, his chest vibrating beneath her head.

"Pehle bhi pada hai," he admitted casually.

She pulled back slightly, looking at him with curiosity. "Kyun?"

At that, his smile faded slightly, the light in his eyes dimming just a bit.

After a brief pause, he exhaled and said, "My so-called mother used to slap me sometimes when I asked for her attention."

His voice was flat—devoid of emotion, as if he had long accepted it.

But Amrit felt her chest tighten. She saw the pain he had buried, the wounds that never quite healed.

And without thinking twice, she reached out and cupped his cheek, running her fingers lightly over the very same spot.

Without another word, she leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek.

Then another.

And another.

Before Akshat could react, she started placing a flurry of soft, warm kisses all over his cheek—each one lighter than a feather, yet heavy with unspoken affection.

He let out a small chuckle, tilting his head slightly. “Bas bas... agle ek mahine ka quota pura kar rahi ho kya?” he teased, but his voice held a slight tremor, betraying the way her love was making his heart race.

Amrit pulled back slightly, her lips curling into a playful smile. “Aise hi... aaj aap pe zyada pyaar aa gaya.”

At that, his breath hitched, and to her absolute delight, his face turned a soft shade of pink.

He cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck. "Koi wajah?" he asked hesitantly, avoiding her gaze as the warmth spread across his face.

She grinned, shaking her head. “Ainvayi. Do I need any reason to love my husband?”

That did it.

Akshat’s entire face turned a deeper shade of red, and he looked down, unable to stop the shy smile that played on his lips.

Before he could recover, Amrit leaned in once again, placing another sweet kiss on his cheek.

And then, with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, she raised herself slightly on her toes and kissed his other cheek too, balancing her hands on his shoulders.

As Amrit giggled softly, ready to lay back against his chest, Akshat's hand suddenly reached out, gripping her jaw gently yet firmly.

His darkened gaze flickered between her lips and her eyes, and before she could even take her next breath, he closed the distance, crashing his lips against hers.

The kiss was not gentle. It was urgent, desperate, almost intoxicating. His lips molded against hers, capturing her in a whirlwind of heat and hunger. Their breaths tangled, his warmth seeping into her skin, leaving her dizzy and gasping. She could feel the tension in his body, the way he was holding himself back, yet at the same time, completely losing himself in her.

Amrit let out a soft sigh into the kiss, her fingers gripping his shirt as she pulled him closer, wanting to drown in the sheer intensity of him. His hands were on her waist, gripping tightly, thumbs stroking over the soft skin just beneath her shirt as if he needed to feel every inch of her.

Then, his tongue traced the seam of her lips, teasing, coaxing her to open up for him. She shivered at the sensation, her grip on him tightening, and the second she parted her lips, he deepened the kiss, his tongue slipping inside, claiming her completely.

A deep groan rumbled from his chest as she responded, tilting her head to meet him with equal fervor, their mouths moving in sync, lips pressing, teasing, devouring.

His hands roamed up her spine, his touch sending waves of heat through her body. She clutched the back of his head, fingers threading through his thick hair as she tugged lightly, eliciting a sharp inhale from him. In response, his grip on her waist tightened, pulling her even closer, pressing her body flush against his.

In one swift movement, he pushed her back against the mattress, his body hovering over hers, trapping her beneath him.

He didn’t stop kissing her—not even for a second. His lips moved feverishly against hers, sucking, biting, exploring every inch. His tongue traced over hers, coaxing, teasing, making her whimper against his mouth.

She kissed him back just as fiercely, her hands running down his back, causing him to groan against her lips.

Flipping them over in a heartbeat, he pulled her on top of him.

Amrit gasped at the shift, her palms landing on his chest for balance, but he didn’t give her a moment to recover. His hands slid up her arms, up to her neck, guiding her back down to him.

This time, the kiss was slow but no less passionate, deep and languid, like he was savoring her, tasting every inch of her. His fingers traced along her bare skin, trailing up her spine as he held her closer, the warmth of his hands sending shivers down her back. She tangled her fingers in his hair again, tilting his head to kiss him even deeper, completely losing herself in the way their lips moved together.

Then, in a move that had her breath hitching, he suddenly rolled them over again—but instead of pinning her beneath him, he lifted her up slightly, pressing her against the headboard, their bodies still molded together.

Their lips never parted, the intensity of their kiss only growing, turning feverish and raw.

One of his hands slid down, fingers intertwining with hers, pinning their joined hands above her head as he kissed her deeper, his free hand trailing down her side, making her arch into him. His thumb brushed against her wrist, feeling the erratic beat of her pulse, knowing she was just as lost in this moment as he was.

His lips moved hungrily, claiming her again and again, his tongue teasing, his teeth tugging at her lower lip before soothing it with a soft kiss. By the time he finally pulled back slightly, both of them were breathless, their lips swollen, tingling from the sheer passion of it all.

He pressed his forehead against hers, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he tried to steady himself.

"Have I made you uncomfortable?” he whispered, voice hoarse.

Amrit, still breathless, let out a small chuckle, her fingers tightening around his as she whispered back, "No.”

And with that, he kissed her forehead, pulling her in his arms caressing her hair as he placed a kiss on jer hair.

Next morning, Kavya had just stepped out of her apartment, carefully leaving Bulbul at Preeti’s place to let her rest, when something on the table caught her attention.

An envelope.

Her brows furrowed in confusion as she picked it up. The official-looking seal on it sent a shiver down her spine. With hesitant fingers, she tore it open and pulled out the document inside.

The moment her eyes scanned the first few lines, it slipped from her grasp and fluttered to the floor.

Her hands trembled.

“Custody papers…” she whispered, her voice barely audible as the words sent an icy chill through her veins.

A wave of nausea hit her. Prakash. He was trying to take Bulbul away from her.

Her Bulbul.

Her heart pounded painfully against her ribs, fear gripping her chest like a vice.

Krishiv sat in his cabin, flipping through files, but his attention kept drifting toward the meeting room.

Kavya was there, sitting quietly in a corner, her usual spark noticeably dim.

She looked distant. Tired. Defeated.

Even Vihaan, who had been discussing something with a colleague, paused to glance at her with concern.

When the meeting finally ended and everyone started filing out, Vihaan remained seated.

“Kavya, ek minute rukho,” he said, his tone gentle but firm.

Kavya, who had been gathering her things, froze.

She sighed but nodded, hesitantly sitting back down.

Vihaan pulled a chair in front of her and sat, his eyes scanning her face carefully.

“Is there any problem, Kavya?” he asked, his voice laced with worry.

She quickly shook her head, looking away.

Vihaan let out a deep breath.

“Kavya… maine kya kaha tha?” He leaned forward slightly, his voice soft but unwavering. “I am your boss later, but I am your brother first… and it’s clear that something is wrong.”

The moment those words left his mouth, Kavya broke down.

Her shoulders shook as sobs wracked her body, and she covered her face with her hands, unable to hold back the storm of emotions any longer.

Vihaan’s expression hardened with concern as he immediately reached out, gently patting her shoulder in comfort.

Through her tears, she gasped, “Prakash… he sent a custody letter… he’s saying he will take Bulbul away from me…”

Her voice cracked, her panic rising with every word.

“Woh kaise kar sakta hai?! Woh mujhe kaise alag kar sakta hai meri Bulbul se?! Main usey nahi khona chahti!” she sobbed, shaking her head frantically.

Vihaan’s jaw clenched, anger flashing in his eyes.

“He won’t.” His voice was steady, firm. “Kavya, look at  me.”

She sniffled, hesitantly lifting her teary eyes to meet his.

“We will fight this. You are not alone in this.” Vihaan assured her. “Mujhe bata, jo kuch bhi zaroori hoga, main karunga. Aur Anika ko bhi bataana hoga. She must know better lawyers who can handle this.”

Kavya blinked at him, her lips quivering.

Vihaan squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Tujhe kisi se darrne ki zaroorat nahi hai, Kavya. Bulbul teri beti hai… aur woh teri hi rahegi.”

Amrit stood near the podium, clutching the edges of her research notes as she tried to steady her breathing. The large seminar hall was beginning to fill up, the murmurs of students and faculty members creating an overwhelming buzz in the background. She wiped her slightly trembling hands on the fabric of her dress, her heartbeat erratic, her stomach twisting into nervous knots.

From across the hall, Akshat watched her intently, catching every subtle sign of her nervousness. The way she kept shifting her weight from one foot to another, the way her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her dress—she was nervous, very nervous.

Not wanting her to feel alone in this moment, he stood up from his seat, casually pulling out his phone, pretending to scroll through it as he made his way toward her. His pace was unhurried, his posture relaxed, but his eyes never left her.

As soon as he reached her, he glanced around, making sure no one was paying attention. Then, with swift ease, he grabbed her hand, pulling her away from the crowd.

“Akshat—” she gasped in surprise, barely keeping up with his sudden movement as he guided her behind the secluded corridor wall, hidden from everyone’s view.

She looked up at him with wide, panicked eyes, her breath shaky. "Mujhse nahi hoga ye," she confessed, voice barely above a whisper. "I am shivering." Her hands clenched at her dress again, her nervousness evident.

Akshat exhaled softly, his fingers gently cupping her cheek, his thumb brushing along her skin in slow, reassuring strokes.

“I know this is tough for you," he murmured, his tone laced with understanding, "but trust me, you’re far more capable than you think."

He paused, a teasing smirk forming on his lips as he continued, “Tum toh bina jaane kisi ko zindagi ka lecture de sakti ho, kisi ke room me jaa ke usko uske room thik karne ko keh sakti ho…toh ye konsi badi baat hai?"

Amrit’s lips parted in disbelief before forming a small pout. "Aap motivate kar rahe hain ya hamara mazak bana rahe hain?" she asked, narrowing her eyes at him.

Akshat chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. “You are already a motivation for me... main tumhe kya motivation dunga?” He shook his head lightly, his expression softening. “I’m just saying, don’t panic.”

He held her hands in his, squeezing them gently. "Accha, bas yeh sochna wahan pe sirf main hoon. Mere alawa koi nahi. And you’re just talking to me, like you always do.”

Amrit sighed, her grip tightening around his hands, taking in his warmth, his presence, his unwavering belief in her.

"I will try." She whispered, nodding slightly.

Akshat’s lips curled into a proud smile. "That's like my Amrit."

Before she could say anything else, he leaned in and pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead, his lips resting there for a few seconds as if transferring all his confidence to her.

"All the best," he whispered, his voice deep and reassuring.

And with that, he stepped back, his fingers slowly slipping away from hers before he turned and walked away.

As Amrit’s name was announced, she felt a wave of cold nervousness wash over her. Her grip tightened around the research notes she was holding, her fingers trembling slightly. She swallowed hard, forcing her feet to move forward, even as her mind screamed at her to turn back.

The stage felt too big, the audience too many. Professors, students, and scholars—all watching her, waiting. Her heart pounded against her ribcage as she stepped behind the podium. She adjusted the mic with unsteady hands and took a deep breath.

“This… this research…” she began, but the words felt foreign on her tongue. Her voice cracked, and she immediately looked down, her throat tightening.

She tried again. "My research focuses on the impact of classical English literature on modern feminist narratives, analyzing how female authors from the 18th and 19th centuries paved the way for contemporary literary expressions of female autonomy…"

She paused, her breath hitching as she realized she was stuttering too much. Her vision blurred for a second as panic clawed at her chest. Her hands gripped the podium tightly, her knuckles turning white.

She needed to stop. She needed to leave.

Her mind blanked out completely.

And then, in her sheer nervousness, she said something completely incorrect.

She knew it the moment the words left her mouth. A moment of silence hung in the air. People exchanged glances. Some whispered to each other. A lump formed in her throat.

Her eyes turned glossy. Tears of frustration threatened to spill as she stood there, frozen, unable to move, unable to speak.

And then—a loud clap echoed through the hall.

She blinked, startled.

The sound repeated. And then again.

Her gaze snapped toward the source, Akshat.

He was sitting there, clapping. His expression was calm, encouraging. His eyes held nothing but pride.

“That was good, Miss Tripathi,” his voice rang out clearly, cutting through the heavy silence. “Come on, pura kariye. You are doing well.”

Behind him, another pair of hands clapped. Then another. And soon, the entire hall was clapping.

“Yes, Amrit, you are doing well. Complete kariye.” One of the female professors smiled at her.

Amrit’s lips parted in surprise, her eyes flickering between Akshat and the rest of the audience.

And then, she saw it—his smile.

Warm, unwavering, filled with belief.

A small, shaky smile formed on her lips. Her shoulders relaxed, her grip on the podium loosened.

She took a deep breath.

No matter what others thought, he was there.

With renewed determination, she picked up from where she left off. This time, she didn't focus on how many people were watching. She focused on one person.

“As I was saying,” she continued, her voice steadier now, “literature has always been a reflection of society’s evolution. My research delves into the works of early female authors such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Jane Austen, analyzing how their portrayal of women challenged the traditional expectations of their time. Their writings weren’t just novels, they were silent revolutions, questioning patriarchy in subtle yet powerful ways.”

She looked up briefly, her confidence growing as she caught Akshat’s nod of encouragement.

“Moving forward to the 20th century, we see a shift, from subtle defiance to outright rebellion. Writers like Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath used prose and poetry to give voice to the struggles of women confined by societal norms. Their works became not just literature, but a movement. A declaration that women’s stories mattered.”

She was no longer just reading from her notes. She was speaking. Explaining. Feeling every word.

“The impact of classical literature on modern feminism is undeniable. Even today, contemporary writers build upon the foundations laid by these women. We see reflections of Jane Eyre’s quiet strength in today’s protagonists. We see echoes of Woolf’s stream-of-consciousness style in modern narratives. Literature has never been just about words, it’s about change. And that change is ongoing.”

She finished her speech, exhaling slowly as she finally looked up at the audience.

And then, the questions began.

Professors and students raised their hands, throwing analytical and critical questions at her, and she answered. She stuttered at times, her nerves still lingering, but she pushed through.

And Akshat? He watched her with nothing but pride.

At one point, he raised his own hand.

“Miss Tripathi,” he said with a teasing glint in his eyes, “considering the impact of classical literature on feminist narratives, do you think works like Pride and Prejudice still hold the same relevance today, or do they reinforce outdated romantic ideals?”

She narrowed her eyes at him for a second, knowing he was testing her, making her push herself more.

But instead of feeling flustered, she smiled.

“With all due respect, sir” she answered, mirroring his tone, “Pride and Prejudice is a story that presents a woman who refuses to settle for anything less than her worth. Elizabeth Bennet challenges societal norms, refuses a marriage proposal that does not align with her values, and ultimately finds love on her own terms. If anything, it is a testament to the idea that even in the past, women had a voice, they just had to fight harder to use it.”

A proud grin spread across Akshat’s lips.

As the final bell rang, signaling the end of the college day, Amrit quickly gathered her things, her heart pounding with excitement. Today had been a huge day for her, and the one person she wanted to see the most was waiting for her—far from the college gates, leaning casually against his car.

Akshat.

She didn’t waste a second. The moment her eyes found him, she ran.

And then, without a thought, she jumped onto him, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck.

“Akshat!!” she squealed, burying her face against his shoulder.

He barely had time to react before instinctively catching her, his arms securing around her waist, lifting her slightly off the ground. A chuckle left his lips as he steadied himself, but he didn’t let go.

“I love you! I love you! I love you so much!!” she exclaimed excitedly, pressing an eager kiss on his cheek between each word.

Akshat felt his heart melt. Her energy, her happiness—it was infectious. He smiled, his grip on her tightening slightly, as if grounding her moment of joy within his embrace.

“I am proud of you,” he whispered softly, his lips brushing against her ear.

Her breath hitched at his words, her fingers tightening around the fabric of his shirt. She smiled against his shoulder, letting the warmth of his embrace seep into her bones.

For a few moments, they simply held each other.

And then, reality hit her.

They were in public.

Amrit’s eyes widened as she subtly turned her head, only to find several people discreetly glancing in their direction. Some were whispering, some pretending not to stare, while others looked outright amused.

Her face turned red.

She immediately wriggled in his arms, attempting to break free. “Akshat! Sab dekh rahe hain!” she hissed, her voice a mix of embarrassment and urgency.

But Akshat, completely unfazed, only tightened his hold.

“Pehle toh tumne kiya,” he murmured against her hair, his voice teasing.

She gasped. “Arre, I was excited na! But now everyone is looking!” She struggled again, her hands pushing lightly against his shoulders.

He smirked. “Toh ab problem hai?”

“Of course, problem hai!! College ke kisi student ne dekh liya toh problem ho jayegi!” she whisper-yelled, her eyes darting around nervously.

Akshat sighed dramatically, as if letting her go was the hardest thing in the world. But he finally loosened his hold, allowing her to step back.

As soon as she did, he casually raised his palm.

She blinked.

And then, her eyes widened in delight.

Toffees.

A small handful of colorful, familiar toffees rested in his palm, the kind she loved.

Her lips curled into a wide grin as she eagerly grabbed them.

As they drove through the city streets, Amrit unwrapped another toffee, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

She turned to Akshat, who was focused on the road, his hands steady on the steering wheel, his features relaxed.

Without a word, she leaned closer and gently pushed the toffee against his lips.

He glanced at her in surprise but didn’t resist. His lips parted slightly, letting her push the sweet treat inside.

He shook his head, his smile never fading as he focused on the road again.

Soon, they reached the entrance of their apartment building.

Akshat pulled the car to a stop near the main entrance, but before Amrit could step out, he spoke.

“Tum chalo, mai peeche parking karke aata hoon.”

Amrit, who had just grabbed her bag, immediately paused and slapped her forehead dramatically.

“Phir se?” she groaned, turning to him.

Akshat raised an eyebrow. “Kya?”

“Ab kyun jana hai wahan se?” she asked, exasperated. “Sabko pata hai na ab?”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Adat nahi hai.”

They stood side by side in the elevator, the doors closing behind them.

As the lift ascended, Amrit folded her arms and sighed dramatically. “Kitna weird lag raha hai aise... chup chup ke maza aata tha.”

Akshat turned his head toward her, his brow arching. “Haan?”

She nodded, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Bollywood wali feeling aati thi… jaise kisi filmy couple ki secret romance chal rahi ho.” She grinned, biting her lip to hold back her laugh.

Akshat rolled his eyes but couldn’t help the smirk tugging at his lips.

“Accha?” he drawled, stepping closer. “Aur fasta toh mai tha na?”

She giggled, stepping back slightly.

“Shaitaan!” he muttered, reaching out to pull her nose playfully.

She squealed in protest, swatting his hand away. “Akshat!”

But before he could pull back, she grabbed his nose in retaliation, giving it a gentle squeeze.

A deep chuckle escaped him, and soon, they were both laughing, the air between them light and playful.

The elevator dinged, and as the doors slid open, they stepped out, still lost in their teasing.

Unbeknownst to them, Preeti was walking toward her apartment.

“Aa gaye dono?”

Both Akshat and Amrit froze mid-step, their hands still entwined.

In an instant, they snatched their hands away from each other, standing awkwardly as they turned toward Preeti, who was watching them with amusement.

Seeing their guilty expressions, she chuckled.

“Arre ab kyun dar rahe ho?” she teased, raising an eyebrow.

Akshat cleared his throat, looking anywhere but at her, while Amrit nervously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Both of them smiled sheepishly.

Preeti crossed her arms, shaking her head with a knowing smile. “Ab toh sabko pata hai… romance chhupane ki zaroorat nahi hai.”

Amrit giggled, nudging Akshat lightly with her elbow before turning back to Preeti with excitement bubbling in her voice.

“You know, today I spoke in front of everyone!”

Preeti’s eyes widened in delight. “Sach?”

Amrit nodded enthusiastically. “Haan! Pura seminar diya maine! Pehle bohot nervous thi, but phir… somehow I did it!”

Preeti’s face lit up. “Waah! Ye toh badi acchi baat hai!” she said proudly.

“Maine kaha tha na tu bas khud ko underestimate karti hai?”

Amrit smiled, still basking in the moment.

“Haan maasi,” Akshat chimed in, crossing his arms as he leaned casually against the wall. “Main bhi toh yahi kehta hoon… isko sirf khud pe confidence nahi hai.”

Hearing him say that, Amrit’s lips curved into a pout.

Preeti let out a soft laugh at their adorable banter.

She then turned to Akshat, her gaze gentle yet affectionate. She reached out and cupped his cheek.

“Achha lag raha hai tujhe aise dekh kar.”

Akshat blinked, a little taken aback by the warmth in her voice.

But soon, a small, genuine smile stretched across his lips.

Alya stormed into Krishiv’s office, determination evident on her face.

“Krishiv, tum uss din jo—”

Before she could even complete her sentence, Krishiv interrupted, his attention completely elsewhere.

“Bulbul ki mummy ko kuch hua hai kya?” His brows furrowed in concern as he recalled Kavya’s unusually tense expression from earlier. “She looked so worried… Kal tak toh sab theek tha.”

Alya exhaled in frustration. “Hua hoga… par meri baat toh suno!”

But Krishiv wasn’t listening. His mind was occupied with Kavya.

“You don’t understand, Alya…” He ran a hand through his hair, pacing slightly. “Woh usually tension nahi leti. I think it’s about Bulbul. I should check on her. But yesterday night I talked to her… Aaj subah bhi… sab theek tha… I think—”

Alya had had enough.

“Enough, Krishiv! It’s enough!”

Her voice rang through the office, startling him. Krishiv looked at her in surprise as she clenched her fists, eyes brimming with unshed tears.

“Why are you so worried about Kavya ma’am? Who is she to you?” Her voice cracked slightly, but she held her ground. “Main yahan hamare baare mein baat karna chahti hoon aur tumko jab dekho Bulbul, Bulbul ki mummy ki padi rehti hai! What about me, Krishiv?!”

Her words hung in the air.

Krishiv sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose before looking at her with a frown.

“What about you?” His voice was steady, but there was a finality to it. “I already told you, Alya. I am not ready for this, and I am not interested in any relationship.”

Alya stared at him, her lips parting slightly as if trying to process his words.

“You are better as a friend.”

A sharp pain stabbed at her heart.

Her vision blurred as she asked the question that had been haunting her.

“Why?” She took a shaky breath. “Is it because of Kavya ma’am? Tell me, Krishiv… do you have feelings for her?”

Krishiv stiffened.

For a fleeting moment, his mind wandered—to Kavya’s voice, her laughter, Bulbul, the moments they had shared.

But the realization hit him like a bolt of lightning, and he shook his head violently, shaking away the thought.

“Are you out of your mind, Alya?” His voice was sharp now. “How can I like her?! I don’t like anyone, not you, not her, not anyone.”

Alya bit her lip, trying to contain her emotions.

“Please don’t get upset…” His tone softened slightly, but it didn’t change the weight of his words. “But this is exactly what I wanted to tell you when I called you to the restaurant. I can’t marry you, Alya.”

“I’m sorry.”

And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving her standing there with nothing but unanswered questions and a heart that ached in ways she hadn’t expected.

The evening air was thick with tension as Krishiv walked towards Kavya’s building, his mind preoccupied with concern. Just as he was about to enter, his steps faltered. His sharp eyes landed on a familiar figure—Prakash.

The man was standing outside the building, a smug expression on his face, accompanied by a lawyer.

Krishiv’s jaw clenched. What the hell was he doing here?

Prakash noticed him and smirked, his gaze turning amused.

“Ohh, toh aap aa gaye?” He nudged the lawyer beside him, his tone dripping with mockery. “Wakeel sahab, look at him. He is our card to win the case.”

Krishiv’s blood boiled. Without a second thought, he grabbed Prakash by the collar, pulling him close.

“How dare you enter this building?” His voice was dangerously low, filled with raw fury.

Prakash chuckled, completely unfazed. “Arre ab yahan mat daraiye, seedha court mein milenge.” He patted Krishiv’s hands off his collar with a smirk and walked away with his lawyer, leaving Krishiv standing there, seething.

Without wasting another second, Krishiv turned and rushed towards the elevator. His pulse was racing, a million thoughts clouding his mind.

As soon as he reached Kavya’s apartment, he pressed the doorbell impatiently.

The door creaked open, and a small figure stood before him—Bulbul.

Without a word, Krishiv instantly pulled her into a tight hug, his heart pounding.

“Are you okay? Kuch hua toh nahi?” His voice was thick with worry.

Bulbul, slightly startled by his reaction, blinked up at him. “Mujhe kya hoga?” she asked, tilting her head.

Krishiv exhaled sharply, a wave of relief washing over him. He ran a hand over her hair, offering her a small smile.

“Where is your mummy?” he asked, still checking her over.

“She went for some work,” Bulbul replied, closing the door behind her.

Krishiv nodded, trying to push away the unease settling in his chest.

Bulbul’s eyes suddenly lit up with excitement. “I have drawn something! Dekhna hai?”

Krishiv forced a smile, trying to act normal. “Arre, neki aur puch puch!”

“Abhi aayi!” Bulbul chirped, dashing inside to get her drawing.

Krishiv sighed and sat down on the sofa, running a hand over his face. Just as he leaned back, a piece of paper fluttered to the ground.

Absent-mindedly, he bent down to pick it up. As his fingers brushed against it, he did what he always did out of habit—he touched it to his forehead and chest, a mark of respect.

But the moment his eyes fell on the words scrawled across the paper—

Bulbul came running back, excitement shining in her eyes as she held up her drawing. “Dekho! Yeh maine banaya!” she chirped.

But before she could show it properly, Krishiv suddenly pulled her into a tight embrace. His arms wrapped securely around her small frame, holding her close as if shielding her from something unseen.

His voice was barely above a whisper, but the intensity in it made Bulbul frown in confusion.

“Kuch nahi hoga.”

Bulbul blinked. “Kisko?” she asked, her little face scrunching up in curiosity.

Krishiv loosened his grip just enough to look at her, his eyes soft but determined. “Kisi ko bhi... Aapko aur aapki mummy ko.”

Bulbul grinned innocently. “Woh toh I know!” she said, full of childlike confidence.

Krishiv let out a small chuckle, though his mind was far from at ease. He placed a gentle kiss on her head before pulling back.

“Achha, will you stay at Preeti Maasi’s apartment for a while? Mujhe thoda kaam hai.” His tone was casual, but there was an urgency behind his words.

Bulbul tilted her head. “Main yahin theek hoon.”

Krishiv sighed, rubbing his temple. He didn’t have time to explain, nor did he want to scare her. “Please, Bulbul… Chalo.”

Before she could protest further, he lifted her up in his arms, holding her securely as he stood up.

Bulbul pouted. “Lekin meri drawing—”

“Preeti Maasi ko dikha dena, okay?” Krishiv smiled, his grip firm yet comforting.

Bulbul huffed but eventually nodded. “Theek hai.”

Vihaan and Kavya sat across from the lawyer in his office, a space filled with heavy bookshelves and the faint scent of paper and ink. The lawyer, recommended by Anika, leaned forward, listening intently as Kavya spoke.

"I also think Prakash was the one who planned the accident," Kavya said, her voice laced with frustration. "Uska plan tha ki mujhe careless prove kare taki Bulbul mujhse chhin sake."

Vihaan nodded grimly. "It makes sense. But—"

"There is no proof." The lawyer interjected, sighing. "We need solid evidence if we want to make a strong case against him."

Just then, Vihaan’s phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen and saw Krishiv’s name flashing.

"Haan, Krishiv bhai?" Vihaan said.

"Send me the location." Krishiv’s voice was urgent, leaving no room for questions.

Vihaan frowned. "Kya? Kyun?"

"Abhi bhej, Vihaan. I’m coming." The line disconnected before Vihaan could say another word. Letting out a sigh, he quickly sent the location, exchanging a confused glance with Kavya.

A short while later, the door swung open, and Krishiv strode in. His sharp eyes scanned the room before landing on Kavya.

Kavya stiffened, shock flashing across her face. "What is he doing here?" she asked, her voice barely masking her surprise.

Vihaan hesitated for a moment, but before he could answer, Krishiv spoke up, his gaze unwavering. "Vihaan se location maanga maine." He pulled out a chair and sat down, his expression unreadable.

Krishiv looked at the lawyer with a firm gaze. "Hello, I am Krishiv Malhotra." His voice was steady, carrying the weight of his name effortlessly.

The lawyer let out a small chuckle. "Haan, aapko kaun nahi jaanta?" he said, acknowledging Krishiv’s well-known status.

Krishiv didn't bother with pleasantries and got straight to the point. "Actually, I saw Prakash today. Building ke paas."

Kavya's eyes widened in shock. "Kya???" Her heart pounded as fear crept into her voice. "What was he doing there? Bulbul… Bulbul thik hai na??? Aap thik hain? Usne aap dono ko harm karne ki koshish toh nahi ki?" She fired her questions rapidly, panic evident in her tone.

Krishiv immediately stepped in to calm her down. "Relax, Bulbul ki mummy!" He gave her a reassuring look. "We both are fine. Lekin woh kuch ajeeb keh raha tha… ki main unka card hoon case jeetne ka."

Vihaan and Kavya exchanged a confused look.

"Iska kya matlab hua?" Vihaan questioned, his brows knitting together.

The lawyer leaned back in his chair, tapping his pen thoughtfully against the desk. Then, he looked at Krishiv. "Aap Miss Kavya ke kya lagte hain?"

Before Krishiv could answer, Kavya spoke up, her voice firm. "He is my boss’s friend and also my business partner."

The lawyer raised a brow. "And? Prakash aapko kaise janta hai?"

Kavya exhaled sharply and explained everything that had happened with Prakash—how he had seen her and Krishiv together that day, the confrontation, and his constant attempts to intimidate her.

The lawyer listened carefully, then sighed, shaking his head. "I get it… woh soch raha hoga ki tum dono…" He coughed awkwardly before continuing. "You know… tum dono akele the… toh usne uss angle se bola hoga."

Krishiv's jaw clenched. "What the hell!" His voice was laced with anger, his fists tightening on the desk.

The lawyer held up his hands defensively. "I am sorry, but maine sirf wahi kaha jo sach ho sakta hai."

Kavya, unable to process the humiliation and frustration burning inside her, abruptly stood up and walked out of the office without another word.

Outside the lawyer’s office, Kavya stood near the corridor, her arms wrapped around herself as she tried to compose her erratic breaths. The humiliation, the helplessness—it all came crashing down on her.

Krishiv stepped out after her, his steps slow, calculated. “Bulbul ki mummy…” His voice was softer than usual.

Kavya stiffened at the familiar address, but she didn’t turn to face him.

Krishiv sighed. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have barged in like that… Aur jo bhi lawyer ne bola, uski taraf se bhi maafi chahta hoon.”

Kavya finally turned, her eyes flashing with unshed tears and anger. “Aapko yahaan nahi hona chahiye tha, sir. Please leave.” Her voice was controlled but firm.

Krishiv exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Main nahi jaa raha. I won’t let anything happen to Bulbul.”

Kavya let out a bitter laugh, taking a step closer. “Aur main kya kar rahi hoon itne saalon se? Main uski maa hoon! Mujhe kisi ki zaroorat nahi hai, sir. Main Bulbul ki dekhbhal kar sakti hoon!”

Krishiv’s expression hardened, but he remained calm. “Main sirf help karna chahta hoon, bas—”

“Aap help nahi, sirf problems badhane aaye hain!” Kavya snapped, her voice trembling with pent-up frustration. “Aur obviously log yahi sochenge jo Prakash soch raha hai! Do you even realize what this means for me? Meri already itni mushkil se chal rahi case ko aap aur complicate kar rahe hain!”

Krishiv clenched his jaw, opening his mouth to argue, but Kavya cut him off. “Aapko koi haq nahi hai mere mamle mein bolne ka, sir. Yeh meri life hai, mera case hai. Main khud sambhalungi. Aap please apni jagah jaayiye aur dobara interfere mat kijiye.”

Vedant rubbed his temples, exhaustion pressing heavily on his shoulders. The day had been relentless—one surgery after another, leaving him with barely any time to breathe. Now, as night settled in, he sat in his chair, skimming through patient files, ensuring he attended to all scheduled appointments.

Just as he was about to take a sip of water, a familiar voice echoed through the hospital corridor.

A voice he could recognize anywhere.

His head snapped up. “Nandini?” he whispered, his brows furrowing in confusion.

Without another thought, he got up and rushed outside.

The moment he stepped into the hallway, his eyes immediately found her. She was standing near the reception, her arms crossed as she spoke—no, argued—with a nurse.

The staff and a few patients waiting nearby had started noticing the heated conversation, their curious gazes making Vedant sigh.

He had no interest in interfering in her matters, but this was his hospital. He couldn’t allow a scene like this.

Straightening his coat, he strode towards them.

"What happened?" Vedant asked, his tone calm but firm as he glanced at the nurse.

Nandini’s gaze flickered toward him for a brief second before she looked away, her jaw clenching.

The nurse hesitated, then explained, “Sir, ma’am wants an appointment with Dr. Dutta, but it’s not clear if she’s available right now. I was just asking her to fix an appointment with you instead, but she refuses to listen.”

Vedant exhaled slowly. Of course, she didn’t want to consult him.

Before he could say anything, Nandini huffed in frustration. "Leave it. I should go."

She turned on her heel, ready to walk away.

"Nandini, wait."

His voice stopped her mid-step.

She didn't turn around but hesitated, her fingers curling into fists at her sides.

Vedant took a deep breath, trying to keep his emotions at bay.

“Just stay here. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” His voice softened, and though she didn't respond, she didn't leave either.

That was enough for him.

Without wasting another second, Vedant walked towards Dr. Dutta’s cabin.

He stopped at the door, his hand resting on the handle. He hesitated.

Something inside him wouldn’t let him leave just yet.

Turning back, he looked at Dr. Dutta, his voice quieter this time. “And… please, can you tell me what’s wrong with her?”

Dr. Dutta raised an eyebrow. “I’ll send you the reports once they’re ready.”

Vedant shook his head almost immediately. "No… that would be wrong."

Dr. Dutta’s brows furrowed at his response, but he continued, his voice laced with concern.

"Just tell me if she’s fine or not. That’s all I need to know. And please—” He took a deep breath, rubbing the back of his neck. "Acche se kariyega… I mean, please don’t check her in a hurry."

There was something almost desperate in his voice now, a rare vulnerability that even he wasn’t aware of.

He exhaled sharply, running a frustrated hand through his hair. "She was sick a few days ago. Maybe there's something more. And…” He hesitated again, looking away for a brief second before speaking softer this time. “Ask her to eat properly. That silly girl doesn’t know how to take care of herself.”

Dr. Dutta just stared at him.

"Ulta pulta khane ki aadat hai," he muttered under his breath, almost to himself, but loud enough for her to hear. "Junk food, missed meals… She never listens."

A knowing silence stretched between them.

Dr. Dutta continued looking at him—longer this time, her gaze thoughtful, as if she was observing something he himself wasn’t aware of.

Vedant shifted under her gaze. "What?" he finally asked, growing uneasy.

She leaned forward slightly, tilting her head. "You love her so much."

For a second, Vedant froze.

His breath hitched, his body going rigid as his mind tried to process her words.

Love?

A strange, unfamiliar panic settled in his chest.

His lips parted, but no words came out. What was he supposed to say?

Instead, he did the only thing he knew how to do—he avoided the conversation entirely.

"I should leave." His voice was low, almost rushed, as he turned away, gripping the doorknob a little too tightly.

Before he stepped out, he turned back slightly. "And please… don’t tell her that I gave you extra money."

Dr. Dutta smirked, shaking her head at his stubbornness, but didn’t argue. "Fine. Your secret’s safe."

Without another word, Vedant walked out.

And there she was.

Standing right where he left her.

Nandini.

Her arms were still crossed, her weight shifted slightly to one side as if she had been waiting—though she would never admit it.

His heart did something strange again, but he pushed the feeling away.

Clearing his throat, he turned to the nurse. “Book her appointment.”

He just walked away, his footsteps echoing through the corridor, leaving her standing there, watching him go.

It was late at night when Vedant finally stepped out of the hospital, exhaustion weighing heavily on his shoulders. The day had been relentless—back-to-back surgeries, patient rounds, and endless paperwork. His stomach rumbled in protest, reminding him that he needed food before his night duty started.

As he adjusted his coat and prepared to walk toward his car, his eyes instinctively flickered across the parking lot—only to land on a familiar figure.

Nandini.

She was walking out of the hospital, her gaze focused ahead, her expression unreadable. Unlike before, she wasn’t with her car or scooty, which struck him as odd. Why was she walking?

Before he could think too much about it—it happened.

A small yelp left her lips as she stumbled, the sharp snap of breaking heels echoing in the silent night.

Vedant’s reflexes were quick. Before she could fall, his arms were around her, steadying her.

Her body tensed against his touch, and she quickly straightened up, shaking off his hold. But his eyes had already caught the problem—her heel had snapped clean off, leaving her unbalanced.

She attempted to stand properly, but she stumbled again.

Vedant sighed, gripping her hand before she could protest. Without a word, he bent down on one knee.

Gasps echoed around them.

The hospital staff, security guards, and tea vendors outside, all turned to watch the scene unfold.

Nandini’s eyes widened in sheer horror.

"Vedant! What are you doing?" she hissed sharply, stepping back as he carefully removed her broken sandals.

He didn’t answer immediately. He simply stood up, shrugged off his own shoes, and held them out to her.

"Wear them." His voice was calm, firm, leaving no room for argument.

Her jaw clenched. “I don’t need your help, Vedant. Kitni baar kaha hai—stay away from me.”

Vedant exhaled deeply, nodding as if he had expected this reaction. "I will. Just wear them first."

She crossed her arms, turning her head away stubbornly.

Vedant ran a hand down his face. "I have an extra pair inside. You know you need this." His voice remained composed, though there was a hint of tired frustration laced in his tone.

Nandini, being Nandini, remained unmoving.

Vedant pressed his lips together in frustration before letting out a resigned sigh.

"I’m sorry for this."

And before she could process his words—he knelt again.

This time, he gently grabbed her foot, slipping his shoes onto her feet himself.

Gasps and whispers rippled through the small crowd.

Before she could react, he stood up, dusting off his coat, as if the moment hadn’t affected him at all.

"Vapas kar dena." His voice was indifferent, almost casual, as if he hadn’t just made every single person in the vicinity stare at them like they were in a goddamn Bollywood movie.

"You’ve helped me a lot of times too. Consider this a payback."

Vedant stood beside her, casually scrolling through his phone, his face illuminated by the dim glow of the screen. His body language was relaxed, as if he had no particular reason to be there, as if he was simply passing time. But Nandini wasn’t blind. She noticed everything.

She turned to him, arms crossed, her voice sharp. “Why are you standing here?”

He blinked, momentarily caught off guard before recovering quickly. "Wo... I came for fresh air," he said, his tone almost too casual, too nonchalant.

She rolled her eyes, not buying his excuse for even a second.

Yet, he remained standing there. Silent. Unmoving.

He didn’t say anything, didn’t push her to talk, didn’t force a conversation. He just stood there, his presence unwavering, as if waiting for something, as if making sure she was safe without actually saying it aloud.

Nandini felt her chest tighten, but she pushed the feeling away, looking anywhere but at him.

Minutes passed in a heavy silence until finally, her cab arrived.

She opened the door, slid inside without a second glance, forcing herself not to look back.

Just as the car started moving, she caught a glimpse of him through the window—Vedant raising his phone, his fingers swiftly capturing a picture of her cab’s number plate.

Her breath hitched.

He didn’t wave. He didn’t try to stop her. He simply turned around and walked back inside the hospital, his back straight, his expression unreadable.

Nandini let out a shaky breath, her fingers curling tightly into fists.

She closed her eyes.

Because she knew. She knew what she was doing.

She was hurting him. Deliberately. Repeatedly. Stabbing him with her coldness, cutting him with her indifference.

But what choice did she have?

She couldn’t trust him.

She wouldn't.

She had spent years teaching herself not to believe in love, not to fall for care that could turn into cruelty, not to mistake devotion for permanence.

She had seen it before.

The same care, the same love, the same sweet, suffocating concern.

She had witnessed it in her own home. Her father had worshiped her mother before marriage, had treated her like a queen, had done everything to make her feel special. And yet, it had all been an illusion.

Because once the vows were spoken, once the papers were signed, once there was no way out—he had shown his true colors.

And her mother had suffered.

Nandini had watched her suffer, had watched the love drain from her eyes, had watched her shrink into a version of herself she never should have been.

So no.

She wasn’t going to fall for this.

She wouldn’t let herself believe that Vedant was different.

She wouldn’t let herself be destroyed.

Trusting someone is like handing them a knife with your eyes closed, hoping they’ll protect you instead of using it to carve you apart. And love? Love is a loaded gun with a trigger too easy to pull. I’d rather put a bullet through my own heart than let someone else decide when to shoot.

She would prove that Vedant’s love wasn’t real, that his care was just a fleeting obsession, that his concern was a game he didn’t even realize he was playing.

Because if she didn’t…

If she let herself believe in him, even for a second,

She would never survive the consequences.

Kavya sat on the bed, gently running her fingers through Bulbul’s silky hair as she slept peacefully, her tiny hand clutching Kavya’s dupatta.

Kavya swallowed the lump in her throat, her eyes burning with the weight of unspoken fears. She had no idea how long she would get to hold her daughter like this. No idea when she would have to let go.

She closed her eyes, and the lawyer’s words echoed in her mind.

Flashback

The lawyer leaned forward, his fingers tapping against the file in front of him. “Miss Kavya, your case is strong, but there are certain things Prakash can, and will use against you.”

Kavya frowned. “Like what?”

The lawyer sighed. “Your financial instability, your lack of a solid support system, and most importantly, Krishiv Malhotra.”

Kavya’s breath hitched. “What about him?”

The lawyer adjusted his glasses. “Your association with him raises too many questions. He isn’t a relative, nor is he your husband or legal guardian of Bulbul. And yet, he is actively involved in your life, especially in this case. Prakash’s lawyer will definitely question the nature of your relationship and use it to prove that you are dependent on an outsider for stability.”

Kavya’s hands clenched into fists. “He’s just helping!”

The lawyer shook his head. “Court doesn’t work on emotions, Miss Kavya. It works on facts. And the fact is, a powerful, wealthy man being so invested in your and your daughter’s life, without any official relationship, will not look good. The opposition can easily twist it into something inappropriate.”

End of Flashback

Kavya exhaled shakily, her fingers still threading through Bulbul’s soft hair.

The room was silent except for the faint ticking of the clock. Kavya sat still, her fingers absentmindedly stroking Bulbul’s hair as her daughter slept soundly beside her.

Just then, her phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen—Krishiv.

Kavya shut her eyes for a brief moment before answering. "Hmm?"

"Bulbul so gayi?" His voice was gentle, careful.

"Haan." She kept her voice neutral.

"Can you come outside? I want to talk to you."

Kavya stiffened. "Aap yahan kyun aaye? Maine kaha tha na—"

"Please, Bulbul ki mummy..." His tone held an insistence.

She sighed, running a hand over her face before carefully getting up from the bed. She pulled a dupatta around her shoulders, glanced at Bulbul one last time, and then stepped outside.

The night air was crisp as she opened the door, revealing Krishiv standing there, his face shadowed by the dim streetlights. His usual confidence seemed subdued, replaced by something heavier.

"What happened?" She asked, crossing her arms.

Krishiv exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. "I am sorry... Everything is messed up because of me."

Kavya let out a humorless chuckle, shaking her head . "It’s not your fault. Mujhe nahi pata tha khush hone ka itna bada jurmana dena padega mujhe…" Her voice cracked. She swallowed hard. "I can't imagine my life without Bulbul."

Tears slipped down her cheeks before she could stop them.

"There is a way… I have talked to the lawyer. Sab thik ho sakta hai," he said, his voice steady yet urgent.

Kavya’s brows furrowed in confusion, but there was also a flicker of hope in her eyes. "Kaise?" she asked, searching his face.

Krishiv hesitated for only a second before stepping closer. Slowly, he reached for her hand, his fingers caressing her knuckles in a reassuring touch. "Marry me, please marry me, Bulbul ki mummy."

The world around her seemed to still. Kavya’s breath hitched, her entire body going rigid as she processed his words.

Her hand jerked away from his grasp as if burned. "Are you out of your mind??? Is this some kind of joke?" she asked, her voice sharp with disbelief and anger.

Krishiv didn’t flinch. His eyes remained locked onto hers, unwavering. "I am damn serious! This is the best way… If you marry me, case ka koi matlab nahi rahega. Bulbul ki custody humein milegi."

Kavya shook her head, tears stinging her eyes. "You will marry me for custody?? Do you even understand the seriousness of the situation? How can I marry you?"

Krishiv sighed, taking a deep breath. "I know… I promise I will be the best father for Bulbul. I will take care of her well… Please, give me a chance."

Her fists clenched at her sides as she blinked back the moisture clouding her vision. "Please leave, sir." Her voice was quieter this time, yet firm.

Krishiv’s gaze softened, but his determination didn’t waver. "I promise I won't be like your first husband… I am much better than him. I won’t harm Bulbul—ever. I will take care of both of you."

Kavya’s jaw tightened, her breath uneven. "I said leave, sir!!" she snapped, her patience breaking.

Krishiv exhaled, running a frustrated hand through his hair. "Please just think about it… Aap—"

Before he could finish, Kavya stepped back and, without hesitation, slammed the door shut in his face.

Her chest rose and fell rapidly, her fingers trembling as she pressed her palms against the door. She could still hear him standing on the other side, but she refused to open it.

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Mujhse shadi karogi turururururu😋🎀

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