13. Princess and The Protector

Shivansh's POV:

The moment I walked into the restaurant, I spotted her-Aadya, sitting with her phone, looking as if she were ready to take on the world. And maybe me, too.

I dropped into the seat across from her. "What's this, Princess? A lunch date or an interrogation?"

Without missing a beat, she glanced up. "Let's call it a free lunch. And you're paying."

I laughed. "Oh, is that so?"

Ignoring me, she signaled the waiter and rattled off a list of dishes: stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, Margherita pizza, pasta primavera, garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, and chocolate fondant for dessert.

I raised my eyebrows as she added dessert. "Hungry much?" I teased, leaning back. "Or are you trying to bankrupt me?"

"Maybe both," she shot back, hiding a smirk. As the waiter was about to leave, she added, almost as an afterthought, "And make sure there are no nuts in anything."

A flicker of warmth crept into my chest, though I quickly smothered it. Classic Aadya-acting like she didn't care, but still watching my back.

When the food arrived, we dug in. Every now and then, I'd reach across to sneak a piece off her plate, and every time, she'd smack my hand away like she was swatting a fly.

"Can you get your own food?" she huffed, pulling her plate closer.

"What's mine is yours, Princess," I grinned, flicking a piece of pizza at her. She retaliated by chucking a spoon at me, which I barely dodged. She gave me a glare, but I could see her fighting back a laugh.

Then, her playful mood shifted. She reached into her bag, pulling out a file and sliding it across to me. I raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"Why'd you call me here?" I asked, sensing something serious behind her expression.

Her gaze hardened. "I wanted your take on this."

I opened the file, and the name jumped out instantly-the MLA's son, along with his father. Two of the dirtiest, dangerous men I knew of.

"Where'd you get this?" I asked, my voice dropping as I processed the implications.

"There was an email at my dad's firm-a request for legal help in a case against them." She paused, her eyes sharpening. "When I asked my brother, he brushed me off. Said it was a 'fake case.' But I knew he was hiding something. So, I figured I'd ask you."

I scanned the file, feeling the weight of what she was asking. "Aadya, these people aren't just dangerous-they're criminals. Both father and son have records longer than anything. Bribery, violence, fraud-they've even been involved in assault and harassment cases. They'll do anything to protect themselves."

Her expression darkened, her usual spark dimming as she absorbed my words.

Seeing her face, I added softly, "Look, I know you want to help, but you need to stay away from this, okay? These guys... they're not a game."

She looked back at me, jaw set. "I didn't ask for your permission, Shivansh. I just wanted the truth."

I sighed, feeling that familiar frustration with her stubbornness. "Of course you didn't. But trust me, they're dangerous, Aadya, and I'm not letting you near them. Whether you like it or not, I'll do everything to keep you out of this."

She glared at me, unrelenting, as if daring me to try.

The meal ended in tense silence, her mind clearly racing with thoughts I couldn't decipher. When the bill came, she reached for her wallet, and I immediately reached for mine, too.

"Let me pay," I said, holding up my card.

She narrowed her eyes, holding her card up like a challenge. "What's wrong, Shivansh? Is your male ego too fragile to let a woman pick up the tab?"

I rolled my eyes. "Oh, please. It's not about that. I just thought-"

"No, you thought wrong," she cut in, slapping her card onto the bill folder. "Or are you just looking for an excuse to take your frustration out on me?"

I leaned forward, lowering my voice. "The only one taking out frustration here is you, Princess. And it's on me, clearly."

She huffed, flipping the bill folder shut and sliding it to the end of the table, signaling the waiter. "Fine," she said, clearly annoyed, "then consider it an act of mercy for putting up with me."

Once the bill was paid, Aadya stood, shouldering her bag and brushing past me with a muttered, "Thanks for the company."

I watched her walk out, tension from our earlier conversation still hanging in the air. Making a quick decision, I pulled out my phone and called my secretary. "Cancel my 3 p.m. meeting and clear the rest of my day," I said, not taking my eyes off Aadya's retreating figure.

Jogging to catch up, I placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her. She turned, surprise flickering in her eyes.

"What?" she asked, her voice softer than usual, the edge of frustration gone.

I gave her a lopsided grin. "Nothing. Just figured you could use a distraction."

She eyed me suspiciously. "Shivansh, where are we going?"

"There's a new movie out," I replied casually, gesturing toward the theater down the street. "Figured we could catch it."

She raised an eyebrow. "I thought you had work."

I shrugged, guiding her toward the theater. "Work can wait. Besides, someone has to keep you from throwing more spoons at innocent people."

She snorted, a reluctant smile tugging at her lips. "I don't know why I put up with you."

"Because, Princess," I said, smirking, "life would be boring without me."

Just like that, her smile returned fully, the tension melting away as we walked together down the street. Whatever had shaken her before seemed a little further, and I knew I'd keep it that way, if only for the rest of the afternoon.

I leaned against my car, arms crossed, watching as Aadya waved off her driver with that confident, almost commanding air. She looked at me with a mischievous glint that usually meant trouble.

"Let's invite Vivaan!" she said, already reaching for my phone.

I raised an eyebrow, smirking as I let her take it. "Are you sure? He's going to think we're on a date."

She rolled her eyes, unbothered. "Please, he'd never believe that. Besides, you should be honored to be seen with me."

I couldn't help but laugh, dialing Vivaan and putting him on speaker. After a few rings, he picked up.

"Yo, Shiv! What's up?"

Before I could say a word, Aadya jumped in. "Hey, Vivaan! We're at the mall-come join us for a movie!"

Vivaan laughed, catching on immediately. "You two? Together? This sounds suspiciously like a date."

Aadya sighed dramatically, giving me a pointed look. "Vivaan, trust me, I'm doing community service by hanging out with him."

I chuckled, playing along. "She can't resist my charm. You know how it is, Viv."

Vivaan's laughter echoed through the phone. "Alright, alright. Just don't have too much fun without me. I'll join you guys after finishing some work; until then, enjoy the movie."

At the mall, as we headed to buy tickets, we ran into Anika, one of Aadya's friends. She looked me over with a warm, unmistakably interested smile.

"Oh! Shivansh! Aadya! Fancy seeing you two here!" She stepped closer, her gaze lingering on me. "What a surprise."

I forced a polite smile, but beside me, I felt Aadya tense up. Before I could say anything, she looped her arm through mine, her grip firm and, if I didn't know better, almost territorial.

"Hey, Anika! We're actually running a bit late for the movie," she said smoothly.

Anika's smile faltered, but she slipped a card out of her bag, handing it to me. "Well, call me sometime, Shivansh."

Before I could even react, Aadya took the card from my hand, her smile polite but sharp. "Don't worry, Anika. I'll remind him." Then, as soon as Anika walked away, she tossed the card into a nearby trash can without hesitation.

I chuckled, leaning down to whisper, "Possessive much?"

She shot me an annoyed look, though I didn't miss the faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "I was just saving you from a headache. You're welcome."

Oh, trust me, Princess-I'm very grateful."

We eventually found our way to the arcade, and as promised, Vivaan was there, leaning against one of the machines with a smirk. He raised his eyebrows when he spotted us.

"Ah, the 'couple' finally arrives!" he called out, clearly enjoying himself. "How was the 'date'?"

I shrugged, deciding to tease Aadya a little. I threw an arm over her shoulders. "Well, she did insist on holding my arm the whole time."

She quickly squirmed out of my grasp, shooting me an indignant look. "I was just making sure you didn't trip over yourself. Honestly."

Vivaan laughed, shaking his head at us. "Careful, Aadya, you're getting a bit too defensive."

I leaned back, smirking as she glared at both of us, clearly flustered. I couldn't help but enjoy it. It'd been a long time since I'd let myself have this kind of carefree fun, but with Aadya, it just felt natural. She had this knack for pulling that side out of me.

"Enough talk. Let's see if either of you can beat me," she challenged, already heading toward the basketball game with a competitive gleam in her eyes.

At the arcade, we spent the next hour competing in every game we could find, from basketball to racing. When Aadya beat us both at basketball, she raised her arms, grinning triumphantly. "Ha! Too slow, boys."

Vivaan shook his head, laughing. "You're scarily competitive, you know that?"

I smirked. "Let her have her moment. We'll get her back in bowling."

But that didn't go so well either. My first throw veered off completely, missing the pins. I felt her amused gaze on me, and I could almost hear her comment before she said it.

"Some 'protector' you are," she teased, raising an eyebrow. "Can't even knock down a few pins."

I threw her a mock glare. "Fine. Let's see what you've got, Princess."

She just rolled her eyes and looked at Vivaan, smirking. "See what I put up with?"

Vivaan chuckled, picking up his ball. "At least he's better company than Anika."

Aadya's expression shifted, and she muttered, "Don't bring her up," a bit too quickly.

Vivaan raised an eyebrow, catching her reaction. "Oh? Getting a bit jealous, are we?"

"Jealous? Please." She flicked her hair back, scoffing. "I'm just looking out for Shivansh. Imagine the chaos she'd cause in his life."

I leaned in, my voice low, just for her. "Aw, you're just so selfless, Princess. Always protecting me from my admirers."

She huffed, but the faintest blush touched her cheeks, and I felt a small surge of satisfaction.

After a while, we headed for dinner, the three of us laughing and teasing each other over the table. Aadya and I couldn't resist teaming up on Vivaan. "So, tell us how you were eyeing Ishaani at Roohi's engagement," I teased him, watching him blush and laugh as he waved us off.

When we finally called it a night, I offered Aadya a ride back. The drive was quiet, and for once, it didn't feel uncomfortable.

But a thought had been nagging at me, one I couldn't shake off since we'd left the restaurant. The way Aadya's expression had darkened when I told her to stay away from the MLA's son-she'd looked at me like I was trying to control her, like I didn't trust her strength.

Just as we reached her house, I parked the car but didn't turn off the engine. She looked at me, confused.

I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck, searching for the right words. "Aadya... about earlier, with the file and all. It's not that I don't think you're capable or anything like that. You're... probably the toughest person I know."

She raised an eyebrow, her gaze softening, though her posture stayed guarded. "Then why were you acting like I'm fragile? Like I can't handle it?"

"It's not about that. It's just..." I hesitated, choosing my words carefully. I knew how impulsive she is, and I didn't want to trigger her. "These people play dirty, Aadya. They won't think twice about hurting you. And I just-" I stopped, suddenly feeling vulnerable in a way I wasn't used to.

She crossed her arms, a small, genuine smile tugging at her lips. "So, what? You're saying you actually care?"

I rolled my eyes, chuckling to lighten the mood. "Don't get too excited, Princess. I just don't want you ending up in a mess I can't get you out of."

She laughed softly, shaking her head. "I don't need you to rescue me, Shivansh."

I met her gaze, suddenly serious. "I don't want to see you hurt, Aadya."

For a moment, we sat there, the tension easing, and a comfortable silence settled between us. I knew we'd probably argue about this again, knowing her, but right now, that didn't matter.

She reached for the door handle, pausing. "Thanks for today."

"Anytime," I replied, smirking. "After all, who else would put up with your spoon-throwing antics?"

She rolled her eyes but didn't argue. "Goodnight, Shivansh."

"Goodnight, Princess."

I watched her walk up the steps and disappear into her house, feeling a strange sense of peace-a rare moment when I didn't feel the urge to argue, tease, or even push her buttons.

As I drove away, I couldn't shake off my worry for her. I knew how impulsive and reckless she could get at times.

Ishaani's POV

Organizing the rack of clothes, I was fully absorbed in the vibrant fabrics and colors, making sure everything was perfect for the Diwali season. Then I heard his voice-familiar, warm, and teasing.

"Hey, Sunshine."

Turning around, I felt a thrill of surprise and excitement at the sight of Vivaan. But I quickly masked it, knowing exactly how to play it cool. "Oh, Mr. Birla himself! How come we're graced with your presence today?"

He smirked, crossing his arms, that mischievous glint in his eyes unmistakable. "To see you, of course." He seemed to catch himself, then added, "I mean... to get myself an outfit for Diwali."

I rolled my eyes, feigning indifference even as my heart raced a little faster. "Right, the Diwali outfit. But you could've just had your stylist contact me. Why go through the trouble of coming here in person?"

Vivaan stepped closer, his gaze settling on me. "Are you saying you didn't want me to come?"

I paused, warmth creeping up my cheeks. "No... it's not like that," I replied, busying myself with a few options. "Anyway, let me help you." I turned to grab some suits, hoping he hadn't noticed the flush on my face.

As I laid them out, I asked casually, trying to sound unaffected. "Are you guys hosting the Diwali party this year?"

"Yeah," he said, his eyes scanning the clothes but his tone thoughtful. "Dadi wanted it, especially since Advay bhai is engaged now. She even convinced Bua to let us host this year."

I couldn't help but smile, picturing Roohi. "I'm happy for Roohi. Advay seems like a nice guy."

Vivaan nodded, looking a bit surprised. "He is. But you know... he's changed so much since the engagement. You won't believe it, Sunshine, but every time I drop by his office, he's either on a call or texting Bhabhi." He shook his head in disbelief. "It's like he's a different person."

I laughed, trying not to laugh too loudly at his bewilderment. "Just admit it, Viv. You're jealous."

Vivaan scoffed, though a smile tugged at his lips. "Maybe I am. My brother found his person, and now he's all lovestruck... it's a little weird to see."

I held up an outfit to him, still chuckling. "Well, here are some options for your Diwali look, Mr. Jealous."

He glanced at the clothes, then, almost casually, asked, "And what about you? What are you wearing?"

I raised an eyebrow, catching onto his game. "Why? Planning on matching with me?"

Without missing a beat, he replied, "I wouldn't mind twinning with you. I think we'd look pretty good together."

The playful edge in his voice made my cheeks flush, and I struggled to come up with a response. Just then, my phone rang, Aadya's name flashing on the screen.

"Uh, sorry, Vivaan. I have to take this, or else Aadya will actually kill me." I grinned, already bracing myself for whatever complaint was coming.

"Go ahead. I just came from seeing her, and she wasn't exactly in the best mood," Vivaan said, amused.

As I picked up the call, Aadya's voice blared through the line. "Ishaani! Why on earth did you send me a saree? I asked for something comfortable!"

Trying not to laugh, I glanced at Vivaan, who was clearly listening in, entertained. "It's comfortable, Aadya! Besides, it's beautiful-you'll look amazing in it. And Aunty insisted I send it."

She let out an exaggerated sigh. "I know what's going on! She probably found some guy for me to marry and wants me to dress up like an obedient daughter. If she thinks I'll agree, she's dreaming."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Alright, alright. I'll send over something else if you really want. But just try the saree-it's something special. I designed it for you ages ago and forgot to give it."

There was a pause, then a grumble. "Fine, I'll try it. But only because you made it." She hung up, leaving me grinning.

Vivaan laughed, shaking his head. "So, was this part of your plan? Dress her up so her mom can ambush her with a proposal?"

I shrugged, giving him an innocent smile. "Hey, I just designed a beautiful saree! Who knew her mom would use it as a matchmaking tool? And you know Aadya-it's not like she'll agree."

We laughed, a warmth settling between us. I looked up, catching his eyes for a moment longer than I meant to. There was something in his gaze... something that felt different.

I cleared my throat, breaking the silence. "Are you free now?"

He looked at me, his expression shifting slightly. "For you? Always."

My heart skipped a beat, but I tried to play it cool. "Good." I grabbed my bag, then turned to my staff, letting them know I'd be stepping out. "Come with me," I said, nodding for him to follow.

"Where are we going?" he asked, intrigued.

"You'll see," I replied with a hint of mystery as I led him to my car.

We drove through the city, laughing and chatting about everything from work to family. Finally, I pulled up to my favorite spot-a quiet overlook with a perfect view of the city, especially beautiful when Diwali lights began to dot the landscape. I grabbed the food I'd brought along, and we stepped out.

Vivaan looked out at the city, his expression softening. "Wow... the city looks amazing from up here."

I nodded, taking in the view with him. "Beautiful, isn't it? This is my favorite spot before Diwali. Delhi looks magical from here, even if it's a little chaotic down there."

He nudged my shoulder playfully. "Are you sure you didn't bring me here to kill me, Sunshine?"

I laughed, giving him a look. "Oh, please. I'd pick a better spot for that."

As we sat down, fireworks started in the distance, lighting up the sky. I caught his gaze, noticing how the colors reflected in his eyes, making them even warmer than usual.

We settled into a quiet, comfortable rhythm, sharing bites of food, sometimes stealing quick glances at each other. I took a deep breath, letting the peace of the moment sink in. "Delhi can be so overwhelming," I murmured. "But up here, it's... different. Almost like it's breathable."

Vivaan chuckled, noticing a small shiver from me. Without a word, he slipped off his jacket and draped it over my shoulders. "A little cold, Sunshine? You can't handle a bit of chill, can you?"

I felt my heart flutter as I wrapped his jacket around me, smiling. "Thank you."

He gave me a curious look. "So, why do you come here alone before Diwali? Don't you have parties to go to?"

I shrugged. "I go to some... just the ones I actually want to attend. But this spot, right before Diwali... it feels different."

As we sat there in comfortable silence, taking in the twinkling lights of Delhi, I found myself glancing over at Vivaan, who seemed completely absorbed in the view. With the city lights reflecting in his eyes, there was something mesmerizing about him-something I hadn't allowed myself to fully notice before. His skin, so fair in the dimming light, seemed to glow in the soft colors of the fireworks sparking in the distance.

My gaze drifted to the hint of a dimple that appeared when he relaxed, a small detail that made him seem gentler than his usual confident self. I found myself tracing the curve of his jaw in my mind, appreciating the subtle strength in his features, the way he carried himself with ease. For a moment, I forgot everything else, just captivated by this unexpected side of him.

But then, he turned, catching me in the act. The corner of his mouth lifted, forming that dimple I had just been admiring. "Sunshine, if you want to stare, you can go ahead. No need to sneak glances."

I felt warmth rush to my cheeks, quickly looking away. "I-I wasn't staring," I stammered, hoping to sound convincing.

Vivaan chuckled, clearly amused, leaning just a bit closer. "Sure you weren't. But, for the record, I don't mind. Especially if it's you."

A shy smile crept onto my face as I looked back at him, the teasing warmth in his gaze making my heart race. We both turned back to the view, but somehow, the world felt even brighter with him sitting beside me.

Aadya's Outfit

Musketeers

Sunshine and Viv