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Nandini stood near the entrance of her office, waiting for a cab. The cold night breeze brushed against her skin, but she barely noticed. Her phone was clutched in her hand, and she was lost in her own thoughts when she overheard voices nearby.

A group of her colleagues stood a few steps away, engrossed in conversation. Nandini had no interest in their usual gossip, but tonight, their voices were loud enough to force their way into her ears.

"I still can't believe he did this to me," one of the women, Riya, said bitterly. "He used to worship me, you know? He made me feel like the only girl in his world. And yesterday, he slept with another woman like I was nothing."

"What?! That asshole! I thought you both were perfect together," another girl, Simran, gasped.

Riya let out a humorless laugh. "That’s what I thought too. He was the most loving boyfriend ever. Always looking at me like I was his entire universe. Do you remember when he planned that surprise trip to Manali because I was feeling stressed with work?"

"Yeah, he made all the arrangements himself!" Simran nodded.

"And how he would always say that even if the whole world turned against me, he would stand by my side? How he held my hand so tightly whenever we were together?" Riya’s voice shook, pain evident in her words.

"I remember that night when you fell sick, and he stayed awake the entire night just to take care of you," another girl added.

"Exactly! He was so good at making me feel safe, at making me believe that I was his only one. But guess what?" Riya let out a bitter chuckle. "Yesterday, at his friend’s birthday party, he made out with another girl at the bar."

Nandini’s fingers curled into a fist. She didn't know Riya’s boyfriend, but the words struck a strange chord within her.

"What?! He didn’t even have the decency to hide it?" Simran asked in shock.

"Oh, he had an excuse ready," Riya spat. "He said the girl started it. That she was seducing him. And of course, ‘no man can control himself’ when a woman is all over him."

"Such bullshit! If a man truly loves someone, he won’t even look at another girl," another colleague, Neha, added. "You know, my ex-husband was the same. He swore he loved me, made me feel special every damn day, but then he did the exact same thing."

"What happened?" someone asked.

"I got a video. Someone recorded him at a party. A girl was flirting with him, touching him, whispering in his ear. At first, he hesitated, but then… he gave in. Just like that. A few sweet words, a little physical closeness, and he forgot all about me." Neha's voice was filled with disgust.

"Men are all the same," Riya muttered. "They can promise the world, but in the end, they’re weak. They can’t resist temptation. It’s in their nature."

"Exactly! And the worst part? They act like it's not their fault," Simran added. "‘She started it,’ ‘I was drunk,’ ‘It meant nothing’—all just pathetic excuses!”

Weak. Can’t resist. All the same.

The words echoed in her mind, planting a disastrous idea she couldn't shake off.

Akshat and Vedant climbed the stairs together, having met at the entrance just moments ago. They were in the middle of a casual conversation when their steps slowed, noticing a familiar figure sitting on the stairs ahead.

Krishiv.

He sat hunched over, elbows resting on his knees, fingers interlocked, staring blankly ahead. His usually bright, carefree face was shadowed with something neither Akshat nor Vedant had seen before—unease.

"Oye… tujhe kya hua?" Akshat frowned, stepping closer.

"Yahan Devdas bana kyun baitha hai?" Vedant added, trying to lighten the mood, but his eyes held concern.

Krishiv suddenly cupped his face with both hands, exhaling sharply. That one action made both Akshat and Vedant exchange a quick glance before immediately sitting beside him, flanking him on either side.

"What's wrong?" Akshat asked, his voice softer now.

"Tu hume bata sakta hai... you know that, right?" Vedant said, nudging Krishiv’s shoulder.

Krishiv stayed silent for a moment before finally speaking, his voice heavy. "It’s Prakash… he’s blackmailing Kavya for Bulbul’s custody. He sent her custody papers today."

Akshat and Vedant tensed.

"That bastard…" Vedant muttered.

"And?" Akshat pressed.

Krishiv ran a hand through his hair before continuing. "I… I asked Kavya to marry me."

Both Akshat and Vedant jerked their heads toward him in disbelief.

"So you proposed her to marry you?" Akshat asked, his brows furrowed.

Krishiv nodded, rubbing his temples.

Vedant leaned forward, watching him carefully. "Do you love her?"

Krishiv hesitated for just a second before shaking his head.

"Like her?" Akshat asked next.

Again, a shake of the head.

There was a moment of stunned silence before Vedant threw his hands up. "Are you kidding??"

"I’m serious. I want to marry her," Krishiv said, his voice firm.

Akshat let out a dry chuckle. "Tera dimaag thik hai? This is not a joke."

"I know," Krishiv murmured.

Akshat exhaled sharply. "Marriage is not a joke, Krishiv! Why would she agree to marry you when you don't even feel anything for her?"

Krishiv lifted his head, his gaze sharp. "When you married Amrit, did you feel anything for her? Nahi na? You also married her because of the situation. Please… ask her to marry me. She—"

"Both situations are different!" Akshat cut him off, his voice firm. "I married Amrit because she had no one. She had nowhere to go. Even if I had brought her from Bareilly without marrying her, she would have been left alone. She was a student, Krishiv! She wasn’t stable enough to even complete her education. And Kavya… she has a job. She can take care of herself and her daughter. If she gets a better lawyer, she will win the custody case. She doesn’t need to marry you when you don’t even like her!"

Krishiv’s jaw clenched, his hands gripping his knees. "I don’t know!!" His voice rose in frustration. "I don’t know anything, Akshat! I just want to be with Bulbul! I can’t even think about that monster taking her away. She’s the most important person to me! And I swear, Akshat, if something happens… if Prakash even tries to take Bulbul away, I will kill him in court!"

His voice cracked slightly at the end, and that’s what made both Akshat and Vedant freeze.

Krishiv Malhotra never lost control. He was always the one to crack a joke, to lighten the mood, to find a solution without letting emotions get in the way. But tonight… tonight was different.

Krishiv didn’t wait for a response. He got up abruptly and walked away, his footsteps echoing against the silent night. Akshat and Vedant watched him go, both knowing that nothing they said would reach him right now.

Akshat ran a hand through his hair, sighing. "I guess we should at least talk to her."

Vedant nodded, stretching his legs out. "Kal subah."

Akshat glanced at him, then hesitated before asking, "Tu thik hai?"

Vedant frowned, caught off guard. "Huh? Mujhe kya hoga?" He shrugged, feigning nonchalance.

"Kuch din se you’re not looking like your old self." Akshat observed, his voice quieter now. "Tu pehle cheerful rehta tha… kuch hua hai kya?"

Vedant smiled, shaking his head. "Kuch nahi hua, bas work stress jyada hai."

Akshat studied him for a moment, as if debating whether to push further. "Pakka?"

Vedant forced a chuckle. "Haan bhai, chal ab. Amrit wait kar rahi hogi tera." He teased, trying to shift the focus.

Akshat smirked, shaking his head as he stood up. "Good night."

Vedant simply nodded, but as Akshat walked away, his smile faded.

As soon as Akshat stepped into the apartment, he was hit by a thick cloud of smoke, making him cough violently. His eyes stung as he struggled to see through the haze, his heart racing when he realized the smoke was coming from the kitchen.

Without wasting a second, he rushed towards it, panic rising in his chest. The sight before him made his breath hitch—Amrit stood in the middle of the chaos, her figure barely visible through the smoke. A pan on the stove had caught fire, sending dark fumes billowing into the air.

"Amrit!! Ye kya hai—" He didn’t even finish his sentence as he quickly turned off the gas, grabbed her hand, and pulled her out of the kitchen.

He switched on the exhaust fan, trying to clear the air while his gaze frantically scanned her for any signs of injury. "Are you okay? Kahin jali toh nahi? Aur ye kya kar rahi thi kitchen me?" His voice was laced with concern as he held her hands, checking them carefully.

Amrit sniffled, her face covered in a messy mix of flour and black ash, making her look like she had just walked out of a disaster zone.

"Baitho pehle," Akshat said gently, guiding her to sit on the couch. He handed her a glass of water, watching closely as she took small sips.

Still frowning, he pulled out a handkerchief, dipped it in water, and carefully began cleaning her face. His movements were soft yet firm, his fingers brushing against her skin as he wiped away the soot.

Once her face was clean, he took her hands, wiping away the traces of flour and ash before dusting off the burnt residue from her clothes.

Satisfied that she wasn’t hurt, he finally sat down in front of her, exhaling deeply. "Amrit… ab bataogi ye sab kya tha?" His voice was softer now, still laced with concern but gentler.

Amrit wiped at her eyes as she sniffled, looking away. "I was preparing dinner," she mumbled.

Akshat's brows furrowed in frustration. "Kisne kaha tha?? Bhook lagi thi toh kuch order kar leti… kitchen me jaane hi kyun hai? Kitni baar mana kiya hai tumhe?" His tone was firm, his concern evident.

Her lower lip trembled as she tried to hold back her tears, but the weight of her emotions got the better of her, and she started sobbing.

Akshat sighed, his irritation fading in an instant. "Accha, sorry…" he muttered, pulling her into a gentle hug. He ran a soothing hand over her back before cupping her tear-streaked face, wiping away the moisture with his thumbs. "Par kya zarurat thi Amrit? Tum jal sakti thi." His voice softened with worry.

She sniffled, trying to compose herself. "I was practicing."

His brows knitted together in confusion. "Practice? Kiski?"

"To be a perfect daughter-in-law," she admitted hesitantly. "Exam ke baad aapke ghar jaana hai na… toh I thought…" Her voice wavered as she struggled to put her thoughts into words. "I thought I should start learning something, taaki mai aapki family ko impress kar sakun… but I can't even make a Maggi without burning the pan."

Her eyes welled up again as she looked down. "Sab kya sochenge wahan mere baare me… ki Maa toh kitni acchi cook thi aur beti ko kuch nahi aata."

A soft smile tugged at Akshat’s lips, his heart melting at her innocence. Before she could react, he leaned in and pressed a warm kiss to her cheek.

"Why are you so adorable?" he murmured, pulling her back into a tight hug.

Amrit blinked in surprise, her cheeks heating up, but she let herself relax in his arms.

"Meri family cook ka wait nahi kar rahi hai… we already have so many. So don’t worry about that," he reassured her, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Aur wo kisi ke cooking skills se judge nahi karne wale… and I am here, na? Dheere dheere sab seekh jaogi."

He cupped her cheek, making her look at him. "Abhi focus on your studies and career, which is more important. Ek baar apne sapne poore kar lo, cooking mai khud sikhaunga. Ok?"

She lowered her gaze, hesitating for a moment. "Ok?" he asked again, his voice gentle yet firm.

Finally, she lifted her eyes to his and blinked, a small smile forming on her lips. "Okk," she mumbled softly.

Akshat grinned at her, his happiness evident. Seeing his smile, Amrit couldn't help but mirror it.

"Chalo jao, padhai karo. I will prepare dinner," Akshat said, stepping away from her.

Amrit quickly stood up. "Kitchen saaf karna hai na," she reminded him.

"Wo mai kar lunga," he replied nonchalantly, already walking toward the kitchen.

She frowned slightly. "Maine kiya hai na sab… toh I should clean it as well."

Akshat turned around, crossing his arms. "Tum karo ya mai, ek hi baat hai. Jao abhi, let me do my work peacefully… mujhe apne kitchen me aur disaster nahi chahiye," he teased, shooting her a pointed look.

Before she could protest, he took her by the shoulders and gently pushed her toward their room. "No more arguments," he said, making her sit on the chair. He grabbed her notebook, flipped it open, and placed a pen in her hand. "Focus on your studies."

She huffed, pouting slightly, but as soon as he turned around and walked back toward the kitchen, she couldn't help but smile wisely.

In the afternoon, Kavya sat comfortably in her apartment, as she took a day off. She was still in her casual home clothes, sipping on a cup of tea, when the sudden ring of the doorbell startled her.

Frowning slightly, she placed her cup down and walked to the door. As she opened it, she was pleasantly surprised to see Akshat standing there.

"Bhaiya?" she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. "Kya hua?"

Akshat offered a small smile. "Can we talk?"

Kavya quickly stepped aside, opening the door wider. "Haan, aaiye na," she said warmly.

She led him to the sofa and sat down beside him.

"Kuch laun aapke liye? Chai, coffee?" she asked, genuinely happy that he had come.

Akshat shook his head. "Nahi, nahi, baitho."

She nodded and settled in, watching him curiously as he exhaled deeply, gathering his thoughts.

"Yaad hai, last year jab tumne mujhe rakhi baandhi thi? Tab maine tumse kaha tha ki mujhe apna bhai samjho?" he asked, looking at her seriously.

Kavya's face softened into a smile. "Acche se yaad hai," she replied.

Akshat nodded, rubbing his palms together. "Toh… kya ek bhai hone ke nate mai tumhe ek advice de sakta hoon? Bas ek suggestion, aakhri decision tumhara hoga."

Kavya's smile faltered slightly. She had a feeling she knew exactly what he was going to say.

Still, she nodded. "Ji bhaiya?" she asked, her voice steady but her heart already preparing for the conversation ahead.

"I heard that Krishiv asked you to marry him. And you denied…" he said, pausing for a moment before continuing. "Kavya, I am not forcing you... just advising you to give it a thought. Krishiv is the best person one could ask for. He will treat you and Bulbul like a queen and princess. He won’t let a single problem touch either of you."

Kavya sighed deeply, her fingers clenching slightly as she looked away. She had expected this conversation, but facing it wasn’t any easier.

"He is your best friend, right?" she asked, her voice quiet but firm.

Akshat frowned, confused by her tone. "Haan, toh?"

"Then why are you doing this to him?" she asked, looking at him with a mixture of frustration and disbelief.

Akshat blinked. "Kya?"

Kavya exhaled sharply, shaking her head.

"Bhaiya, I know Krishiv is an amazing person. I know he will love Bulbul even more than I do. I know he will take care of me, protect me, and solve every single problem in my life. I know that by marrying him, everything will be easier… safer. But what about him?"

Akshat remained silent, listening intently as she finally voiced what she had been holding in.

"He doesn’t love me, bhaiya . He doesn’t even like me that way. And you, more than anyone, should understand what that means," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "You know how suffocating it is to live with someone you don’t love. You know how painful it is to be bound to a relationship where your heart isn't involved. Why would I do that to him?"

Akshat's expression turned serious, but he didn’t interrupt her.

"Why should he sacrifice his life just because of my daughter? Just because of my problems?" Kavya continued, her voice thick with emotion. "He deserves someone who he truly wants to marry. Someone he likes, someone he loves. He is such a beautiful person, bhaiya. I can’t be selfish and take that away from him."

She shook her head. "I have suffered enough in love, and I don’t want him to suffer too. He is too precious for that. I won’t do this to him, not even for Bulbul’s sake.”

"He deserves love. He deserves to marry someone he actually likes. And that someone… is Alya. And that’s enough for me to step back. I won’t be selfish. I won’t let my struggles become his burden when his heart already belongs to someone else."

Her lips curled into a sad smile as she wiped away the single tear that escaped her eye.

Letting out a sigh, he finally spoke, his voice calm yet firm.

"You think he has feelings for Alya?" Akshat asked, tilting his head slightly. "Kavya, Krishiv doesn’t feel that way about her. In fact, he was planning to reject her. He told me himself."

Kavya’s eyes flickered with surprise, but she remained silent, waiting for him to continue.

"Krishiv isn’t just my best friend, he is family. And as much as I wish I could, I can’t tell you his whole story. Because it’s his to tell, not mine. But what I can tell you is that his childhood wasn’t easy. He was raised in an orphanage, Kavya. He didn’t have the kind of love and warmth that most people take for granted. He had to build his own world, create his own happiness."

He paused, glancing at her to see if she was still listening. She was. Every word.

"He never shows it, but he’s alone. Always has been. He laughs, makes jokes, makes everyone around him smile. But do you know why?" Akshat’s voice softened, his eyes searching hers. "Because deep down, he craves for someone to call his own. He hides it well, but I’ve seen it, Kavya. The loneliness, the longing. He won’t say it, won’t admit it, but he wants someone to be his, someone to complete him."

Kavya’s fingers curled around the edge of the railing, her heart hammering in her chest.

"And you," Akshat continued, "you want the same thing, don’t you? You want someone who will make you feel like you belong. You and Bulbul both."

She looked away, blinking rapidly, as if trying to fight back emotions she wasn’t ready to face.

"Two incomplete people, Kavya," Akshat said with a small smile, "they create the most beautiful relationship, just like, two halves of a moon, flawed, yet together, they create the most beautiful glow in the darkest nights."

Kavya swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry.

"And let me tell you something else," Akshat went on, his tone gentle but firm. "Krishiv actually cares for you. For you and Bulbul. It’s not just kindness, it’s not just him being a good person. I’ve seen it in his eyes."

Kavya finally turned to look at him, confusion and hesitation swirling in her gaze.

"The way he behaved at the hospital," Akshat said, shaking his head slightly, "the way he refused to leave, the way he looked at Bulbul like she was his own... Kavya, it’s clear. You both are important to him."

He let out a small chuckle, shaking his head fondly.

"He’s just a little buddhu, that’s all. He doesn’t even realize it yet." His lips quirked into a smirk. "But trust me, when you and Bulbul become his family, he will realize it. And you won’t destroy his life, Kavya. You’ll complete it."

Silence stretched between them, heavy yet comforting. Kavya felt her heart constrict, emotions bubbling to the surface, making it hard to breathe.

Akshat sighed, stepping back.

"I’ve said what I needed to say. The rest is up to you." His voice was softer now, more gentle. "But just think about it, Kavya. Don’t let fear make the decision for you."

And with that, he walked away, leaving Kavya standing there, her mind racing and her heart whispering things she wasn’t sure she was ready to hear.

The morning sun filtered through the curtains of their bedroom, casting a warm glow over the space. Amrit was frantically searching for her hair clutcher, while Akshat, her husband and professor, followed her around with a toothbrush in one hand and toothpaste in the other. His patience was wearing thin as she seemed more focused on her hair than getting ready for the exam.

“Amrit, yaar! Jooda baad me kar lena, pehle brush karo. Exam hai, late ho raha hai!” Akshat said, trailing behind her, his voice laced with irritation.

Amrit barely paid him any attention as she continued rummaging through the dresser. “Arre, pata nahi kaha gaya! Yahi toh rakha tha maine…” she muttered, pushing aside a few combs and hairpins.

Akshat huffed, running a hand through his hair. “Yaar, pehle brush toh kar lo! Nahane jao, der ho jayegi! Baal baad me bandh lena!” he repeated, his tone a notch more urgent this time.

Amrit finally turned to face him, her brows furrowed. “Bina baal baandhe kaise brush kar loon? Poora toothpaste baalon mein lag jayega! Aapke lambe baal hote na, tab pata chalta!” she retorted, giving him a pointed look.

Akshat sighed dramatically, shaking his head. “Lambe baal,” he mumbled under his breath.

After another few seconds of frantic searching, Amrit finally spotted her clutcher under the mirror stand. “Mil gaya!” she announced triumphantly, quickly securing her long hair into a bun.

Akshat wasted no time. He swiftly uncapped the toothpaste, squeezed a generous amount onto her toothbrush, and held it out to her. “Lo, ab brush karo! Nahao, mai breakfast bana raha hoon!” he said firmly, thrusting the brush into her hand before marching off to the kitchen, shaking his head in exasperation.

Akshat stood in the kitchen, flipping a paratha onto the plate, glancing at the clock every few seconds. He had made her breakfast, but there was still no sign of Amrit coming out of the room. His patience, already stretched thin, was now hanging by a thread.

He stormed back into their bedroom, only to find Amrit standing in front of the mirror, rummaging through her jewelry box.

“Amrit!” he groaned, rubbing his temple. “Yaar, late ho jayega! Kya kar rahi ho? Jaldi karo, mujhe bhi jaana hai!”

Amrit, completely ignoring his frustration, pulled out a pair of earrings, frowned, and shook her head. “Yeh nahi match ho raha…” she muttered, putting them back and searching for another pair.

Akshat let out a sharp breath. “Are you serious right now? Tum exam dene ja rahi ho ya fashion show me?”

Amrit shot him a glare. “Ek second! Itna shor kyun macha rahe hain? Bas matching earrings dhoondh rahi hoon.”

“Earrings?!” Akshat ran a hand through his hair in disbelief. “Yaar! Tumhe kya lagta hai wahan koi tumhare earrings dekhne wala hai?”

Ignoring him, Amrit finally found the right pair and quickly put them on. But just as Akshat thought she was finally ready, she turned around and started digging through her wardrobe.

“Ab kya?!” he snapped, exasperated.

“Matching choodi dhoondh rahi hoon,” Amrit replied, flipping through a stack of bangles.

Akshat shut his eyes and took a deep breath to control his rising frustration. “Amrit, exam hall me tumhaare choodi ka bhi assessment hoga kya?”

Amrit gasped, glaring at him. “Mai apne liye ready hoti hu aur aapke liye!” she winked at him.

Akshat looked at the ceiling as if asking for divine patience. “Main pagal ho jaunga.”

Finally, she picked out her bangles and slipped them onto her wrist. Just as Akshat was about to breathe in relief, she suddenly started searching again.

“Ab kya ho gaya?” he asked, already dreading the answer.

“Mera dupatta nahi mil raha!” Amrit mumbled, scanning the room.

Akshat facepalmed. “Arre yaar! Pehle rakh ke bhoolti kyun ho?”

“Aap daatne ke bajaye help kar sakte hain,” Amrit shot back, looking under the bed.

Akshat groaned but still walked to the chair where she usually dumped her clothes. He picked up her dupatta and tossed it at her. “Lo, ab jaldi karo!”

Amrit quickly draped it over her shoulder, but just as she reached for her bag, she froze.

Akshat narrowed his eyes. “Ab kya hua?”

“Meri watch… maine rakh kahan di?” she mumbled, looking around in panic.

Akshat finally lost it. “Amrit!” he shouted, throwing his hands in the air. “Main pagal ho jaunga tumhare saath!”

Amrit frantically searched the dresser, bedside table, and even the kitchen counter, while Akshat watched, completely done with the situation. Finally, she found it tucked inside her bag.

“Mil gaya!” she beamed.

Akshat took a deep breath, muttering, “Exam me itna ready ho rahi shadi me kitna time lagayegi…”

She quickly put on the watch and grabbed her bag. “Chalo!”

Akshat was pacing near the door, arms crossed, sighing dramatically as Amrit adjusted her dupatta for the hundredth time. His patience had already been tested beyond limits, and just as he was about to say something, the doorbell rang.

With an irritated huff, he walked over and pulled the door open only to be met with a sharp smack on the back of his head.

"Thapp!"

“Ow!” Akshat winced, rubbing his head as he looked up to find Preeti standing there with her hands on her hips, glaring at him.

"Chilla kyun raha bechari pe? Wahan tak awaz aa rahi hai!! Subah subah shor macha rakha hai!" she scolded, her sharp eyes narrowing at him.

Before Akshat could protest, Amrit quickly stepped in front of Preet, her eyes turning wide and lips curving into a perfect puppy face, as if she was the most tortured soul in the world. She clasped her hands together and tilted her head slightly, giving off a helpless expression.

Preeti immediately softened. “Arey, dekho bechari kitni masoom lag rahi hai!” she cooed, patting Amrit’s head.

Akshat rolled his eyes so hard they could’ve fallen out of their sockets. He crossed his arms, giving Amrit an unamused look.

"Shakal aisi bana rakhi hai jaise mai pratadit karta hoon tumhe… Nautanki kahin ki!" he muttered, shaking his head. Then, pointing at her from head to toe, he continued, “Ab solah shringar ho gaya ho toh nashta karengi ma’am?”

Amrit bit her lip, trying to suppress a smile, while Preeti shot Akshat another glare.

“Late kar rahi hai, Maasi! Pehle matching choodi, phir matching earrings, ab matching bindi dhoondh rahi thi! Isme main kya karun?” he defended himself, exasperated.

Preeti gave him a look as if he had said the most ridiculous thing in the world. Folding her arms, she raised an eyebrow.

“Toh kya hua? Tu ladki hota toh pata chalta! Bada aaya complain karne wala,” she said, shaking her head in disapproval.

Amrit smirked behind her while Akshat stared at Preeti with disbelief. "Maasi, aap toh…" he muttered, completely betrayed.

"Aram se baat kar usse! Wo toh vikram jaldi office gaye warna tujhe toh wo batate Amrit pe chillane ke liye." Preeti ordered, wagging a finger at him before turning to Amrit with a smile. “Aur tu araam se ja beta, yeh tension mat le.”

Amrit nodded sweetly, while Akshat let out a defeated sigh as Preeti walked off, leaving him standing there, completely outnumbered and overruled.

Akshat shut the door with a sigh and walked to the dining area, still grumbling under his breath about how he was always the villain in these situations. But the moment he saw Amrit, his eyes widened in horror.

She was sitting at the table, stuffing big bites of paratha into her mouth while holding her notes in one hand, her eyes scanning through them as if her life depended on it. Her cheeks were puffed up like a squirrel hoarding nuts, and she barely even chewed before swallowing.

Akshat’s jaw dropped. “Yaar! Kya kar rahi ho?! Aram se khao!!” he exclaimed, rushing towards her.

Amrit barely spared him a glance, still chewing at lightning speed. “Arre late ho jayega!” she mumbled through her overstuffed mouth. “Meko revise bhi karna hai toh kya karun?”

Akshat let out a deep sigh, shaking his head. “Yeh ladki!!” he muttered.

Taking a seat beside her, he gently plucked the paratha from her hand. “Theek hai, main khilata hoon. Tum notes padho,” he said, breaking the paratha into smaller pieces.

Amrit looked at him in surprise, then gave a sheepish smile before nodding. “Ok Akshat Sirrrr!!,” she teased, returning to her notes.

Akshat rolled his eyes but didn’t say anything. Instead, he patiently fed her each bite, making sure she ate properly. Every now and then, he would shake his head at her lack of attention towards food, but he kept feeding her nonetheless.

Once the plate was empty, he wiped her lips with a tissue, handing her the bag. “Lo, ab chalo. Aur kuch matching reh gaya ho toh bata do, abhi time hai,”

Amrit playfully smacked his arm before taking her bag. As she turned to leave, she suddenly leaned in and pressed a quick kiss on his cheek.

Akshat blinked, momentarily stunned.

She grinned at his reaction. “Bye, professor sahab!” she called out, dashing towards the door.

Akshat touched his cheek, shaking his head with a smile. “Pagal hai,” he murmured, watching her leave with a fond look in his eyes.

The exam hall was filled with students sitting in neat rows, their faces displaying varying emotions some nervous, some confident, and some completely clueless. Akshat walked in, hands in pockets, his sharp gaze scanning the room before he spoke.

"All the best, everyone. Do well." His deep voice echoed in the hall.

Some students nodded, while others mumbled nervous ‘thank yous.’ Among them, Vidya sat hunched over her desk, looking nothing short of devastated.

She groaned softly, running a hand through her hair. "Hey Prabhu , series dekhne se accha padhai kar leti toh ye naubat na aati," she muttered under her breath, mentally cursing herself.

Her thoughts were running wild. "Ab kya likhungi? Jo bhi likhun bas marks mil jaye Bhagwan, kisi tarah pass karva dena!" she prayed silently, staring blankly at her empty answer sheet before Akshat even distributed the question papers.

“Agar fail hui to agla comeback hath me belan aur pallu pakde hue bache ke sath hoga.” She thought gulping.

As he walked through the aisles, placing a paper on each desk, Vidya clenched her eyes shut, hoping for a miracle.

Amrit, on the other hand, took her paper and smiled, her eyes scanning the questions with relief.

Vidya, sitting in the row beside Amrit, peeked at her paper and let out a dramatic sigh. "Kash mai bhi topper hoti," she thought miserably.

Then, as expected, the universal cheating call of exam halls began.

"Psst!!… Amrit! Shhh oyee sun na psstt!!" Vidya whispered, barely loud enough for Amrit to hear.

Akshat, who had just reached the front of the hall, immediately turned his sharp eyes towards Vidya.

She quickly lowered her head, pretending to write.

Akshat squinted at her but didn’t say anything yet.

A few minutes passed. The students were scribbling their answers, but Vidya was still lost.

She looked around, ensuring Akshat wasn’t paying attention, then leaned a little towards Amrit’s direction.

Vidya barely scribbled a few words on her answer sheet before her mind drifted away from the exam. Her eyes flickered to the question paper, scanning the words that seemed to mock her with their complexity. “Hamne tumko Dil ye de diya ye bhi na pucha kon ho tum! Arre yaar ye gaana kyun yaad aa raha hai…isliye subah exam se pehle gaana nahi sun na chahiye!! Ye faisala jo dil ne kiyaa!! Arre yaar phir se chup ho jaa be…kal itna ratta mara wo nahi dimag me yaad aaye ye gana bajana pehle yaad ayega.” she thought, exasperated.

Her fingers tapped anxiously on the desk as she subtly turned her head, scanning the room for potential ‘help.’ That’s when something or rather, someone made her freeze on the spot.

Akshat. Her breath hitched and she gulped nervously. Not only was he standing, but he was looking directly at her.

Her eyes widened in panic. “Yeh toh mujhe hi dekh rahe hain!” Her heart pounded so loudly that she swore the entire exam hall could hear it.

For a second, she considered maintaining eye contact, acting all confident and unbothered. But that plan lasted all of half a second before she averted her gaze, pretending to read the question paper like she was deeply engrossed in writing the most difficult paper ever.

"Bas nazar hata len yaar, mujhe aur bhi kaam hai!" she muttered under her breath, though she knew very well that her ‘kaam’ was currently finding ways to cheat.

She took a deep breath and decided to give it another shot. With the stealth of a trained spy, she leaned slightly towards Amrit’s direction.

"Amrit! Saali sun!!" she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. She had to be careful. The last thing she needed was to get caught.

But before she could complete her plea for help, something darkened the space in front of her. A shadow.

Vidya stiffened. Her heart plummeted straight to her stomach.

With a sinking feeling, she lifted her gaze inch by inch only to find Akshat standing right in front of her desk.

His arms were crossed. His expression! A mix of quiet amusement and strict authority.

Vidya gulped. “Meri kismat hi kharab hai!” she mentally cursed, already regretting every life decision that had led her to this moment.

Act normal. Act normal.

Pretending as if nothing had happened, she casually glanced around the hall, as if admiring the ceiling or contemplating the mysteries of the universe. Then, very slowly, she shifted her gaze back to Akshat, hoping against hope that she had imagined his presence.

Nope. He was still there. And still watching her with stern expression.

She forced a nervous smile, an awkward twitch of her lips that did nothing to ease the tension.

To her horror, Akshat smiled back.

Not a kind smile. Not even a reassuring one.

It was sarcastic. Fake. Just a thin stretch of his lips that sent a clear message “Don’t even try Vidya!”

Her heartbeat kicked up another notch.

Vidya quickly looked away, her mind racing for an escape plan. She exhaled slowly, trying to regain composure.

Okay, maybe he’s just standing here for no reason. Maybe it has nothing to do with me.

That little pep talk lasted exactly three seconds before curiosity got the best of her.

She risked another glance in Amrit’s direction. That was her second mistake. Because the moment she turned her head there he was.

Akshat, Still watching her. A cold shiver ran down her spine.

This time, she didn’t even try to smile. But Akshat did.

He repeated the same fake, taunting smile from earlier only for it to disappear within seconds, replaced by a sharp, warning glare.

Vidya’s stomach twisted into a knot.

She gulped hard. That was it, She was done for.

Without wasting another second, she dropped her gaze to her answer sheet, suddenly pretending to be the most sincere, hardworking, and focused student in the entire hall.

But her mind was screaming—

"Arre jijaji, samne patni baithi hai, usko taado na! Main hi mili hoon dekhne ke liye?!"

Amrit, meanwhile, remained blissfully unaware of Vidya’s current life crises. She was happily writing away, her pen gliding across the paper.

Vidya scowled internally. “Woh toh maze se likh rahi hai, aur yahan main akeli jail ki saza bhugat rahi hoon!”

Akshat, finally, shook his head with an amused smirk.

Then just like that he walked away.

Vidya let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding.

Bach gayi! she thought, picking up her pen and making another desperate attempt to focus.

But even as she tried to scribble down an answer, she knew this wasn’t over yet.

A few minutes passed. The students were scribbling their answers, but Vidya was still lost.

She looked around, ensuring Akshat wasn’t paying attention, then leaned a little towards Amrit’s direction.

"Amrit!" she whispered again, more urgently.

Amrit glanced at her from the corner of her eye.

"Kya?" she mouthed, pretending to be busy writing.

Vidya gestured towards question three, her eyes desperate. "Teesre wale ka bata de!" she pleaded in a hushed tone.

Amrit bit her lip but subtly tilted her paper just enough for Vidya to peek.

Vidya’s face lit up as she quickly copied the answer.

Feeling successful, she smirked and continued writing until a shadow loomed over them.

Amrit’s blood ran cold as she slowly looked up to see Akshat standing behind Vidya, arms crossed, his expression blank yet terrifying.

Vidya, still unaware of his presence, thought she had another chance. She whispered again, "Amrit, fifth wale ka bhi bata de na!"

Amrit mentally slapped herself. "Ye ladki apne sath meri bhi beizzati karva ke hi rahegi!" she thought.

She subtly shook her head, trying to signal Vidya to shut up.

Akshat patted her shoulder But Vidya was too focused on cheating to notice. She sighed dramatically. "Arre pehle mujhe toh pata chale yaar batati hun ruko—"

Before she could finish, a firm pat landed on her shoulder.

Still assuming it was her back bench partner trying to get her attention, she ignored it and continued, "Haan na yaar bata na—"

Another pat. This time, irritated, Vidya turned around, ready to scold her classmate. "Arre kya hai pagal—"

And then she saw him. Akshat stood there, towering over her with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable.

Vidya gulped. Her throat went dry. Her brain scrambled for an excuse.

"Uh… sir… actually… woh… I was just… umm…" she stammered.

Akshat arched an eyebrow. "Haan? Batao? Kya ho raha tha?"

Amrit quickly buried her face in her paper, pretending to be deeply engrossed in her answer.

Vidya let out a nervous laugh. "Sir, woh… main toh bas… Amrit se pen maang rahi thi!" she lied.

Akshat sighed, shaking his head. "Pen maang rahi thi ya teesre wale ka jawab?"

Vidya gave an awkward smile. "Sir, waise bhi mujhe kuch nahi aata toh cheating karke bhi kya kar lungi?"

Akshat let out a dry chuckle. "Haan, ye toh sahi bola tumne."

Vidya pouted. "Sir, ek baar bas aap bhi ignore kar do na, itna strict hone ki kya zaroorat hai?"

Akshat gave her a sharp look. "Agar dobara mujhe koi bhi awaaz sunayi di na, toh exam kaafi pehle khatam karwa dunga, samjhi?"

Vidya nodded rapidly. "Haan sir, bilkul samajh gayi! No cheating! Sirf likhna!"

Akshat smirked and walked away, shaking his head.

Vidya turned to Amrit, who still had her head down. She poked her elbow.

"Professor jija hone ka koi fayda nahi mil aur idhar mai kya kya sapne saja ke baithi thi!" she whispered dramatically.

Amrit bit her lip to stop herself from laughing.

Vidya sighed. "Vaise 3 answer likhe hain kya matlb do chaap ke likha atleast likha to hai itne me pass ho hi jaungi baaki ka kuch bhi likh deti hu jo thoda bahot aata hai ussi ko baat baar repeat kar ke!" she muttered, getting back to writing whatever she could.

Meanwhile, Akshat, standing at the front, shook his head “Ye nahi sudharegi!!”

The evening sky was painted in soft hues of blue and orange, the air carrying a gentle breeze as people bustled around the mall entrance. Kavya stepped out, holding Bulbul’s tiny hand in hers, a few shopping bags draped over her arm. She was smiling at something Bulbul was excitedly telling her when suddenly—

Thud!

She collided with someone, and her shopping bag slipped from her grasp, its contents spilling onto the ground.

"Sorry, beta," came a warm yet apologetic voice.

Kavya froze.

The voice. The face.

Her breath hitched as she lifted her gaze and found herself staring at an elderly man with kind, familiar eyes. He was none other than Vaibhav.

Her heart pounded, an overwhelming rush of emotions crashing over her. Tears welled up instantly, blurring her vision. A lump formed in her throat, and she found herself unable to speak, unable to move.

"Mumma, what happened? Why are you crying?" Bulbul’s concerned voice pulled her back slightly, her tiny hands tugging at Kavya’s dress.

"See! Because of you, my mumma is crying!" she huffed, crossing her arms. "Poola saman gira diya!" Bulbul scolded him, without looking at him, her concentration was on her mother.

Vaibhav looked at Kavya, confused yet concerned.

"I’m sorry, beta… wait." He quickly bent down, picking up her bag with care, ensuring everything was in place before extending it toward her.

But before he could process what was happening, Kavya suddenly bent down—her hands trembling as they reached for his feet.

His eyes widened in shock.

"Arrey! Kya kar rahi ho?" he asked, completely taken aback.

Kavya looked up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"Pehchana nahi aapne?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Vaibhav frowned, his mind scrambling to place her face.

He had seen her before… somewhere…

"Dekha toh hai…" he murmured, his brows knitting together. "Haan, you are somehow related to Mr. Singhania, right? Party mein shayad dekha tha. Ohh haan.. I met this little girl at my son's birthday party. Remember me baccha?” he asked, looking at bulbul who nodded her head.

With a deep breath, she stepped forward, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke.

"I am Kavya… Kavya Dixit," she said, searching Vaibhav’s face for recognition. "Remember? I was sitting near a temple, with a kid in my arms? You saw me… helped me. You gave me money, the address of an NGO… and even helped me find a job."

For a moment, Vaibhav’s expression remained blank, but then—his eyes widened in realization.

"Ohh haan! How can I forget!" he exclaimed, his face lighting up with recognition. His gaze flickered toward Bulbul, and a nostalgic smile tugged at his lips. "Ye teri chhokri hai na?"

Bulbul, sensing the warmth in his voice, grinned widely and nodded.

Kavya let out a shaky breath, her eyes misty with emotions she had long kept buried.

"I didn’t even know your name," she confessed. "Itna pray kiya tha… ki kabhi mil jayein, so that I could thank you properly… but—" she trailed off, her voice thick with gratitude and disbelief.

Vaibhav chuckled softly. "You work in Singhania Industries, right?" he asked, tilting his head. "Party mein dekha tha… ab yaad aaya. But you never saw me before? In business parties?"

Kavya shook her head with a small smile.

"I never attended any parties," she explained. "Bas kuch eleven months hi huye hain Singhania Industries join kiye… as Vihaan sir’s PA."

Vaibhav hummed thoughtfully, shaking his head with amusement.

"This world is so small," he mused. His warm gaze softened as he looked at her. "How are you, bacche?"

Before Kavya could respond, a tiny voice piped up.

"Mumma, yeh kaun hain?" Bulbul asked, tilting her head curiously.

Kavya turned to her daughter, her heart swelling with emotion. She smiled, her voice filled with reverence.

"Bhagwan."

For a moment, silence hung in the air.

Vaibhav’s eyes widened slightly, touched beyond words. His throat tightened at the sincerity in her voice.

"Oye!" he finally spoke, shaking his head in mock disapproval. "What are you teaching this kid! I am not a God, okay? You don’t listen to your mumma, she is wrong."

Bulbul gasped dramatically, placing her hands on her hips.

"My mumma is always right!" she declared with confidence.

Vaibhav let out a hearty laugh, shaking his head fondly before reaching out and pulling her cheek affectionately.

"Accha? Mumma ki chamchi!" he teased, his eyes twinkling.

"Accha… will you come to my place? Please?" she asked, her eyes reflecting a silent plea.

Vaibhav smiled warmly.

"Bilkul," he said without a second thought. "Bas apni patni ko inform kar dun."

He pulled out his phone and quickly made a call, informing his wife about his whereabouts. Kavya couldn’t help but admire the ease in his voice—the way he spoke with such warmth, such love. It reminded her of how important these little moments of connection were.

After a short drive, they reached Kavya’s building.

As soon as Vaibhav stepped out of the car, he looked around and froze in shock.

"You live here?" he asked, his tone filled with disbelief.

Kavya frowned slightly. "Haan, kyun?"

Vaibhav let out a small chuckle, shaking his head in amusement.

"Mai kuch din pehle hi yahan aaya tha… at Mr. Mathur’s place for dinner," he revealed.

Kavya’s eyes widened in surprise.

"What a luck!" she exclaimed. "Itne din se we were so connected, fir bhi kismat ne hume ab milaya."

Vaibhav nodded in agreement, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Fate works in strange ways, bacche."

They made their way upstairs to her apartment, and as soon as they entered, Kavya turned to her daughter with an authoritative yet gentle voice.

"Bulbul, go and complete your homework."

Bulbul, who had been standing at the doorway listening to their conversation, nodded—her expression way too innocent to be true.

"Ok, Mumma," she chirped before dashing inside, her little feet pattering against the floor.

"So, Kavya… how is life going?" He leaned back comfortably before his expression turned more serious. "You must have filed a case against your ex-husband by now… ab toh jail me hoga, right?"

Kavya’s smile faltered. She looked down, her fingers nervously intertwining in her lap before she shook her head.

Vaibhav’s face fell. "What?? But why?" he asked, his voice laced with disbelief.

Kavya took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. "I was scared, Uncle… You don’t know how powerful he is. I had my daughter with me… koi risk nahi le sakti thi." Her voice cracked slightly as she whispered, "But I regret it now."

Vaibhav frowned, his concern deepening. "What happened?" he asked gently.

Kavya exhaled shakily and began recounting everything—the years of fear, the threats that followed even after she left, and most recently, how Prakash had returned, causing havoc in her life again.

Vaibhav listened intently, his expression darkening with every word.

"Ohh God!!" he muttered, rubbing his forehead. "What will happen now? Lawyer dhunda tumne? Should I hire the best lawyer for you?"

Kavya quickly shook her head.

"Nahi, Uncle. Wo sab Vihaan sir handle kar rahe hain." Her voice carried both gratitude and trust.

Vaibhav nodded thoughtfully. "Vihaan Singhania is a smart man. Tum ache haathon me ho, bacche."

There was a moment of silence before Vaibhav suddenly tilted his head and asked, "Accha… toh why didn’t you marry again?”

Vaibhav sighed, shaking his head as he leaned back. His voice carried a touch of bitterness as he spoke.

"Ohh, sorry… mai bhi na!" He let out a dry chuckle before continuing, "I can understand… this world is selfish. Why would anyone marry a single mother? And even if he does, it’s impossible for someone to truly love a child that isn’t his. Aisa ladka shayad hi bana hoga jo kisi aur ke bacche ko gale se laga payega."

Kavya’s heart skipped a beat. Her thoughts immediately drifted to Krishiv, and before she could stop herself, a soft smile appeared on her lips.

"But… there is someone like that," she murmured, almost to herself.

Vaibhav’s eyes narrowed in curiosity. "Oh?"

Kavya looked down, playing with the hem of her dupatta as she gathered her thoughts. "He has a pure heart… the kind of heart that doesn’t see a difference between his own and someone else’s. He didn’t just accept my daughter—he made her his own in ways even I can’t explain."

Vaibhav leaned forward, listening intently as she continued.

"Bulbul is his crime partner," she chuckled softly. "Unki shaitani me bhi ek alag bond hai. But at the same time, he makes her understand things, guides her, and loves her more than anything… sometimes even more than I do."

Vaibhav’s lips curled into an intrigued smile. "Aur?"

Kavya took a deep breath, her mind flashing back to the hospital. "Hospital me jo hua… the way he panicked, the way he couldn’t see her in pain… Uncle, he held her tiny hand like she was his whole world." Her voice turned softer, almost vulnerable. "I have never seen anyone care for her like that.”

"Should I give you an advice?" he asked.

Kavya smiled faintly. "You don’t have to ask."

Vaibhav’s next words were simple but carried the weight of certainty.

"Marry him."

Kavya’s breath hitched. Her eyes snapped up to meet his, shock evident on her face.

"Uncle…?" she whispered, as if she hadn’t heard him right.

Vaibhav’s expression remained firm yet kind. "You just described a man who loves your daughter more than anything, who cares for you without expecting anything in return. Such people aren’t found every day, Kavya. If you have someone like him in your life, don’t let fear stop you.”

Kavya’s voice was barely above a whisper as she struggled to form the words. “But how can I?”

Vaibhav tilted his head, observing her with sharp yet kind eyes. “He’s not interested in marrying you?” he asked.

Kavya hesitated for a moment before shaking her head. “No… he proposed to me.”

Vaibhav’s brows shot up in surprise. “Toh phir kya dikkat hai? He loves Bulbul, that much is clear from everything you’ve told me. And let’s be honest, you won’t find a person like him again. Most importantly, if you both come together, it’ll be impossible for that Prakash to harm Bulbul.” His voice carried a certain urgency, as if trying to make her see what was right in front of her.

Kavya exhaled deeply, gripping the edge of the table as she looked down. “I know, Uncle. I know I won’t find anyone like him. But how can I tie him into a loveless marriage just for Bulbul’s sake?”

Vaibhav leaned back, crossing his arms. “Loveless?” he echoed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. “Tu usse pyaar karti hai, toh loveless kaise hua?”

Kavya’s eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat.

Vaibhav chuckled softly, shaking his head. “It’s clear in your eyes, chokri… tu usse bohot pyaar karti hai.”

She blinked rapidly as tears pooled in her eyes. Her lips trembled before she finally whispered, “Yes… I do.”

A tear slipped down her cheek as she finally admitted it—not just to Vaibhav, but to herself. “I do love him.”

Her voice broke with emotion as she continued, “He filled my life with happiness. He made me laugh again. He taught me how to live again. But… it’s from my side, na? What about him?”

Vaibhav leaned back with a knowing smile, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "You know, men are a little stupid when it comes to love."

Kavya frowned slightly, wiping her damp cheeks. "What do you mean?"

Vaibhav chuckled. "Men… they don’t always recognize love when it’s standing right in front of them. It’s like a man sitting under a mango tree, craving the sweetness of a ripe mango, but instead of plucking it, he just stares at it, wondering if it’s truly meant for him. Even if it falls right into his hands, he still takes a moment to convince himself it’s okay to take a bite."

Kavya couldn't help but smile a little at his metaphor, but her heart still felt heavy. "But what if I’m the only one feeling this way?"

Vaibhav shook his head. "One-sided love, beta, is like a candle in a dark room—it’s enough to bring warmth, enough to light up the space. But when the other person steps closer, when they let that flame touch them, it’s only a matter of time before they realize they needed that warmth too. And from one flame, a hundred more can be lit."

She looked at him, her fingers twisting nervously. "But how can I be sure?"

Vaibhav sighed, his expression gentle. "Because he’s there, isn’t he? He’s standing right there, willing to hold your hand, willing to make efforts. Love is not always about grand gestures, Kavya. Sometimes, it’s in the way someone stands beside you when you need them most. Sometimes, love is in the quiet moments, the way he watches over you, the way he holds your daughter’s hand like she’s his own. Love is in the patience, in the care, in the way he fights the world for you without even realizing he’s doing it."

Kavya felt her heart ache at his words because everything he was saying… it was true.

Vaibhav smiled, tapping her hand lightly. "And trust me, if that man didn’t care for you, he would never take such a decision. He would never offer himself to be your shield, your support, your home. So, stop worrying about destroying his life, because you’re not. You’ll complete it."

Kavya swallowed the lump in her throat, her voice barely above a whisper. "Will he… will he be happy?"

Vaibhav chuckled. "Of course, he will be the happiest. Just try saying it once, and see for yourself."

A small, hopeful smile crept onto her lips, a new sense of clarity washing over her.

Vaibhav glanced at his watch and groaned. "Accha, I’m getting late. My wife will turn into a detective if I don’t take her shopping soon."

Kavya let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "Thank you, Uncle. Really."

He patted her head affectionately. "Just trust the process, chokri. Everything will fall into place.”

Kavya stood outside the building’s entrance, the cool night breeze brushing against her skin as she waited. Her heart pounded slightly, but there was a strange sense of calm within her. She had made up her mind.

Within moments, Krishiv’s car pulled up, and he stepped out, his face already prepared for the rejection he was certain was coming. His hands were shoved into his pockets, his usual carefree demeanor replaced with a nervous edge.

Before she could even speak, he sighed dramatically. “I know what you’re going to say… but please, Bulbul ki mummy, at least think about it once. Don’t take such a big decision in haste.” His eyes pleaded with her. “I promise I won’t be like Prakash. I know I’ve lied to you before, but trust me, I will never betray you. Bulbul will be happy, I will keep her happy...”

Kavya let out a small sigh. “Sir, listen to me first..."

“No, no, no!” Krishiv cut her off, shaking his head furiously before sticking his index fingers in his ears like a stubborn child. “Aap mana karengi, I just know it. But I’m not listening.”

Kavya bit her lower lip, trying to control her laughter as she watched him act like a complete idiot. She had expected nervousness, maybe even frustration, but not this.

She took a step closer, arms folded, watching him with amusement. “Sir, are you five years old?”

Krishiv peeked at her through one eye before quickly shutting it again. “Nope! I am a very mature and responsible adult who just happens to be ignoring your obvious rejection.”

Kavya shook her head, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “Okay, fine. If you’re not going to listen, I’ll just say it anyway.”

"Please, Bulbul ki mummy... Just tell me what I have to do to convince you? I will do anything, anything you say. Just trust me, and I can...."

"I have talked to the lawyer. The court hearing is four weeks later, so.." she started, but he immediately cut her off, still caught up in his attempts to change her mind.

"That’s why I’m saying… I know you’ll deny, but just think about it once..."

"So, we have to get married in four weeks."

His words halted mid-sentence. His eyes widened in shock, his brain scrambling to process what she had just said.

"Wh...what?? Kya kaha aapne??" he asked, his voice nearly a whisper, as if he wasn’t sure if he had heard correctly.

Kavya looked at him, calm and certain. "We have to get married in four weeks, sir."

Krishiv blinked rapidly, his mouth slightly open, his usual sharp wit utterly failing him.

"Matlab... you agreed?" he asked, still unsure if this was reality or some cruel trick of fate.

She sighed, shaking her head slightly. "Isse jyada clearly nahi keh sakti mai."

Krishiv stared at her for a solid three seconds before abruptly pinching his own hand, too sharply, in fact. He yelped, wincing at the pain.

"Nahi nahi, this is real. You actually agreed." His voice was a mix of disbelief and wonder, his heart racing with excitement.

He looked at her again, her gentle smile confirming everything, and a massive grin spread across his face.

"Sorry, khushi se my brain stopped braining." he admitted, running a hand through his hair as he laughed, still slightly dazed.

Kavya glanced at Krishiv, her voice steady yet gentle. "So, should we discuss?"

Krishiv nodded eagerly. "Haan haan, of course! But first, we have to tell Vishakha aunty. I mean… she’s like a mother to me, so.."

"Of course. I was going to say the same. Preeti aunty ko bhi batana hoga… aap baat kar lena." She replied, her tone understanding.

Krishiv let out a small, relieved laugh, running a hand through his hair. "Bas ab aapne haan kar di, baaki mujhpar chhodiye. I will handle everything. I’ll talk to everyone first thing in the morning."

Kavya smiled at his enthusiasm, a warmth settling in her chest. "Good night."

"Good night." Krishiv echoed, turning on his heel to leave.

But then, he stopped.

Kavya frowned slightly as he turned back toward her, walking with a determined stride. Before she could react, she felt his arms wrap around her in a sudden, firm embrace.

Her breath hitched, her body stiffening as she found herself enveloped in his warmth. His scent—earthy with a hint of cologne—filled her senses, grounding her.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you…" Krishiv murmured against her hair, his voice filled with raw emotion. "I promise, I will never break your trust. I will take care of both of you."

Kavya felt tears prick her eyes at the sincerity in his voice, her heart squeezing painfully. She wanted to lift her arms, to return the hug, to hold on for just a second longer… but before she could let herself get lost in the moment, Krishiv pulled away.

A wide, almost childlike smile spread across his face as he stepped back. Then, out of nowhere, he twirled on one foot like an overjoyed kid before rushing toward his car, his excitement radiating off him.

Kavya stared after him, a soft chuckle escaping her lips.

One week had passed, and Krishiv had already informed everyone about their decision. Much to Kavya’s relief, everyone was happy with the news, but the happiest of all was Bulbul. The little girl had been beaming ever since she heard about it, constantly chattering about her cheatel uncle being her papa and planning how she would make him play house with her once they moved in together.

Meanwhile, Amrit’s exams were finally over, bringing a sense of relief to her. The past few weeks had been exhausting, but now, she could finally breathe.

The entire family was gathered in the living room, sitting in a semi-circle around Pandit Ji, who was flipping through his almanac with utmost concentration. The air was filled with the soft jingling of bangles, the rustling of silk sarees, and the occasional sound of someone sipping tea.

Amrit sat beside Akshat, their hands resting close but not quite touching. On the other side, Kavya was sitting with Krishiv with Bulbul on his lap.

Pandit Ji adjusted his glasses and finally spoke, “Kis maheene me rakhni hai shadi?”

Vishakha nodded. “Issi maheene ki koi bataiye na abhi to maheena shuru hua hai, Pandit Ji, gara iss mahine nahi honge to koi baat nahi agle mahine ka bhi chal jayega atleast do weeks ke andar hi..”

Pandit Ji hummed, flipping another page. “Dekhiye, iss saal ache shubh muhurat kam hain. Magar…” He trailed off, his fingers stopping at a particular date. His face lit up.

"Iss maheene ki 24 tareekh ko achi tithi dikh rahi hai!"

There was a brief silence before multiple voices spoke at once.

Pandit Ji  happily continued. “Haan, ye din bohot hi shubh hai. Shadi ka yog bohot acha hai, pati-patni ka rishta mazboot rahega, Varna 3 mahine baad ki hi tareekh hai achi—”

“Kya yeh date confirm hai, Pandit Ji aur don

o jodiyon ki shadi ke liye yahi din hai ya Kavya Krishiv ke liye alag hai?” Preeti cut in, a little too quickly.

“Haan, bilkul!” Pandit Ji nodded enthusiastically. “Agar dono jodiyaan chahein toh dono shaadiyan isi din ho sakti hain!”

Vedant grinned. “Dono best friend sath me baithenge mandap me!”

Preeti smirked. “School sath ab shadi bhi sath?”

“Iski pehle ho chuki hai.” Krishiv said.

Pandit Ji clapped his hands together. “Toh ye date final samjhein?”

Everyone exchanged glances. There was a brief pause, and then, slowly, nods of agreement passed through the room.

“Shaadi issi month me 24 ko hogi!” Akshat announced, squeezing Amrit’s hand, making her blush.

Preeti smirked and leaned slightly forward. "Waise Amru baby, koi excitement nahi hai kya? Tumhari shaadi ki date decide ho rahi hai, aur tum kuch bol bhi nahi rahi?"

Amrit, as expected, remained quiet, simply nodding slightly. Everyone in the room was aware of her introverted nature, but that didn’t stop them from teasing her.

“Lagta hai bhabhi ko hamara ladka pasand nahi hai.” Vihaan said in a teasing tone.

Vedant added dramatically, "Mujhe toh lagta hai, mandap tak lekar jaane ke baad bhi ye confirm karna padega ki Amrit maan bhi rahi hai ya nahi!"

The room erupted in laughter, while Amrit lowered her gaze, slightly embarrassed but used to their teasing. Akshat, on the other hand, just shook his head with a smirk, unfazed by their jokes.

Meanwhile, Krishiv and Kavya were sitting side by side, maintaining a neutral expression.

Preeti turned to them. "Krishiv, Kavya… tum dono ke liye ye date theek hai?"

Both of them exchanged a glance, then shrugged almost at the same time. "Jaisa aap log theek samjhein."

Preeti chuckled. "To honeymoon ka plan kya hai!"

Vihaan smirked. "Ticket mere taraf se dono couples ko gift hoga? Bataiye kahan jayenge ab ek hi jagah mat chale jana Varna samoohik honeymoon ho jayega."

Akshat, who had been patiently listening, leaned back slightly and smirked. "Bataiye kahan jayenge?"

Vikram laughed loudly. "Itna dheere bolne ki jaroorat nahi hai vaise bhi sabko sunau diya and abhi to kuch secret nahi hai!"

Amrit’s cheeks turned a faint shade of pink, and she immediately looked down, while everyone else laughed.

Just then, Nikhil, who had been surprisingly quiet throughout the discussion, sighed dramatically, leaning back in his chair. "Waah, sabki shaadi ho rahi hai, aur main akela bechara!"

Vedant, sensing an opportunity, smirked. "Jiske sath pakde gaye the wahan uska kya?"

Nikhil widened his eyes, sitting up straight. "Wo gussa ho ke baithi hai usko manane me hi do saal lag jayega tab tak uske maa baap uske liye rishta dekh lenge!"

The entire room erupted in laughter as Nikhil covered his face, pretending to be heartbroken, while the wedding planning continued in the background, filling the air with laughter, teasing, and a whole lot of excitement.

Vidya flipped through a wedding planner book. "Baki ke date decide Karen?”

“Haan…. Engagement next week maine already socha hai..baki aap log jaisa bole.” Vaibhav said and everyone nodded in agreement.

Vidya scrolled through Pinterest “Toh mehndi kis tarah ki rakhein? Traditional ya thoda modern touch?"

Amrit, sitting beside Akshat, smiled. "Thoda mix kar sakte hain… mujhe full traditional bhi pasand hai, par thodi uniqueness honi chahiye!"

Akshat glanced at her with a soft smile. "Tumhe jo pasand ho, wahi rakhenge."

Amrit felt her cheeks warm slightly, but before she could say anything, Preeti smirked. "Dekha? Akshat abhi se biwi ki pasand pe chal raha hai!"

Vedant chuckled. "Haan haan, abhi toh shaadi hui bhi nahi hai, par haalat dekh ke lagta hai ki Akshat already control mein hai!"

Amrit's eyes widened, and she quickly picked up a cushion, throwing it at Vedant.

Everyone laughed, while Akshat pulled Amrit a little closer. "Sab patiyon ka yahi hai!"

Amrit’s heart skipped a beat, and she instantly looked away, picking up her glass of water to hide her blush.

Preeti then turned towards Vedant. "Aur sangeet ki tayari? Kaun kaun perform karega?"

Vedant smirked. "Main toh bas ek hi cheez janna chahta hoon… Nikhil perform karega ya nahi?"

The moment Vedant said this, all eyes turned towards Nikhil, who was casually eating chips on the side. He suddenly froze, mid-bite, and looked up to see everyone staring at him with serious expressions.

“Haan karunga na…mubarak ho tumko ye shadi tumhari pe.” He said making everyone laugh.

As the meal continued, Preeti brought the conversation back to the wedding. "Toh ab yeh sab planning final karni hai… Akshat tum bhi bolo kuch kya theme hoga vagera?"

Akshat leaned in slightly. "Jo bhi decide karogi, mujhe pasand hoga."

A teasing smile appeared on Vidya’s face. "Aww, kitna pyaar ho raha hai!"

Preeti giggled. "Amrit, sharma toh nahi gayi?"

Amrit immediately shook her head.

Amrit narrowed her eyes at everyone, but Akshat just chuckled, leaning back with satisfaction.

“Haan and Suno sab agle week engagement 20 ko mehndi 21 sangeet 23 haldi 24 baarat 25 vidai.” Vikram said.

“Ye ekdum sahi hai mai isse note kar leta hun. Card bhi decide karna hai kal hi tak me jada time nahi hai to Rajat tum mere sath chalna ladki valon ka card tum dekh Lena ladke valon ka main.” Rakshit said and he nodded.

Amidst all the chatter, Vaibhav cleared his throat, gaining everyone’s attention.

“Ek aur baat hai,” he said, exchanging a glance with his wife, Preksha.

Preksha smiled warmly at Amrit and Kavya. “Tum dono shadi tak tum dono yahan nahi, apne mayke rahogi .”

Amrit and Kavya looked at them with soft smiles,

There was a beat of silence before Akshat suddenly sat up straight, looking alarmed. “Par ham toh already married hain!” He gestured toward Amrit. “Toh yeh rule kyun?”

Preksha raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. “Agar shaadi dobara ho rahi hai, toh rules bhi dobara honge.”

Akshat’s expression of pure disbelief was priceless. Even Amrit, who had been too flustered at first, bit her lip to keep from laughing but eventually joined in.

“Bilkul,” Vaibhav replied, patting his shoulder. “Dulha ho toh poore tareeke se ho.”

Amrit’s laughter softened, and she looked away, a small pang of sadness settling in her chest. The thought of living separately from Akshat, even for a little while, wasn’t something she liked. She was used to waking up next to him, sharing their small, happy moments, staying apart would feel strange.

Meanwhile, Kavya and Krishiv exchanged a glance. Neither said a word, but there was a silent understanding between them.

"Hamare ghar me rahenge dulhan," Vaibhav said firmly, his voice carrying the weight of both love and authority.

Kavya and Amrit looked at each other before turning to him, a mix of emotions flashing in their eyes.

"Par uncle... iski kya zarurat hai!" Amrit said hesitantly, and Kavya nodded in agreement.

Vaibhav scoffed, placing his hands on his hips. "Oye chokri, did I ask you? Hame bhi toh beti ke baap ban'ne ka sukh milna chahiye!"

Preksha, who had been standing beside him, grinned. "Bilkul! Aur jabse shaadi ki baat chal rahi hai, ham toh sabse zyada excited hain!"

Vaibhav softened for a moment before saying, "But if you both don’t want me to take the place of your fathers, then it's okay. We can understand." His voice was gentle, but there was an unmistakable sadness in his eyes.

Kavya immediately stepped forward, shaking her head. "Aisa mat kahiye, uncle… If anyone in this world deserves to be my father, it's you. Aap na hote toh aaj mai bhi na hoti." Her voice wavered with emotion, and her eyes glistened.

Amrit smiled and walked toward him. "She is right, uncle. You showed me the path every time I was lost. You were my support in my worst times. Aapke alawa koi aur ye haq nahi jata sakta."

Vaibhav looked between them, his vision blurring as his eyes filled with unshed tears.

Then, with a bright, heartfelt grin, he pulled them both into a warm embrace. "Haan ab toh do-do betiyan hain hamari! Apni zimmedari nibhate huye dhum dham se shadi karayenge!”

Before the mood could turn too sentimental, Rajat suddenly stood up, clapping his hands together. “Arre yaar, mujhe toh kabhi laga hi nahi tha ki behan ki shaadi kya hoti hai, yeh samajh bhi paunga!” His face lit up with excitement. “Aur ab mujhe ek nahi, do-do behne mil gayi!”

As the others laughed at Rajat’s enthusiasm, he smirked to himself, his thoughts taking a different turn.

"Ab Vidya bhi aayegi ghar pe… toh mera double fayda ho gaya."

A victorious smile played on his lips as he imagined the days ahead. The weddings were going to be grand, chaotic, and if he had his way full of unexpected surprises.

Little Bulbul stood quietly beside Kavya, her tiny hands clutching the edge of Kavya’s dupatta. Her big, innocent eyes shimmered with a mix of emotions joy, disbelief, and a hint of nervous excitement.

Her gaze slowly shifted to Krishiv, who was sitting beside her, his usual composed expression in place. But to Bulbul, he wasn’t just standing there he was standing as her father, the one she had always dreamed of having.

Her small heart pounded in her chest.

Her lips trembled before curving into a wide, gleeful smile, her dimples deepening. Her tiny fingers curled into fists, pressing against her chest as if trying to hold in the overwhelming happiness bubbling inside her.

Unable to stop herself, she tugged at Kavya’s hand eagerly. “Mumma! Sach mein? Cheatel uncle mere papa ban rahe hain?” Her voice was filled with pure wonder, as if she was afraid someone might say it was all a dream.

Kavya looked down at her daughter, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. She gently cupped Bulbul’s face, nodding softly.

“Haan, Bulbul. Ab tumhare cheatel uncle sirf uncle nahi, tumhare papa honge.”

That was it. Bulbul couldn’t contain her excitement anymore. With a squeal of happiness, she dashed towards Krishiv, wrapping her little arms around his legs as tightly as she could.

Krishiv, caught off guard, looked down at the little girl clinging to him. His throat felt tight, his hands hovering uncertainty before he finally bent down and scooped her up into his arms.

“Bas phir,” she whispered into his ear, her tiny hands gripping his shoulders. “Aap mujhe kabhi nahi chod ke jaoge, na?”

Krishiv swallowed hard, his usually unreadable face softening. He gently tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear and murmured, “Kabhi nahi, princess. Not even in my dreams”

“Yayyyyy!!” She clapped her little hands. Making everyone awee seeing her excitement.

Bulbul giggled, her eyes twinkling with uncontainable joy. Her dream had finally come true.

"Congratulations, chokro! Yeh toh double celebration hai!" he said enthusiastically, patting Akshat's back while Amrit chuckled, shaking her head at his energy.

Then, he turned toward Kavya and Krishiv, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Aur chokra, finally followed my advice, haan?" he teased, raising his eyebrows.

Krishiv grinned, glancing at Kavya before looking back at Vaibhav. "Ofcourse, koi bewkuf hi hoga jo aapki advice ko follow nhi karega !" he joked, making everyone laugh.

Vaibhav pulled them into a warm embrace, his heart swelling with happiness. As he did, Krishiv’s hand accidentally brushed against Kavya’s, their fingers slightly overlapping. Their faces were close, and for a moment, their eyes met—soft, searching, and filled with something unspoken.

Before either of them could react, a small voice cut through the moment.

"Mujhe bhi!" Bulbul chirped excitedly, pouting adorably.

Vaibhav let out a hearty laugh, stepping back. "Of course, little chokri! Aao!" he said, opening his arms wide.

Without hesitation, Bulbul rushed in, squeezing herself between them, her giggles filling the room as the hug grew bigger.

Krishiv smiled, resting his hand on her tiny back, while Kavya ran a gentle hand over her hair.

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