37. He agreed for her studies

The next day, the stark time difference between India and California played out in their routines. While the Ranawat mansion in India was bustling with morning activity, Shivaay woke up in his penthouse in California, the sunlight streaming through the large windows.

He stretched and rubbed his temples, his mind immediately shifting to the tasks ahead. Rising from the bed, he glanced at the red dupatta still lying on the chair, a remnant of a life he had left behind, if only temporarily. Shaking off his thoughts, he got ready for the day.

Shivaay chose a crisp black suit and tied his tie expertly—a skill he often fumbled with at home but managed perfectly now. After one last look in the mirror, he walked to the dining table, where his assistant, Ankit Mehra, had arranged breakfast.

"Sir, everything is ready for the meeting today," Ankit informed him.

"Good," Shivaay replied curtly, taking a few bites of toast and sipping his coffee. His demeanor was as composed and professional as ever, though his mind drifted occasionally to thoughts of home—of Niharika.

As he stepped out of the penthouse, the brisk Californian air hit him, invigorating him for the long day ahead. The drive to his office was smooth, his mind already running through the details of the deal he had come to finalize.

In India, however, the Ranawat mansion had settled into its rhythm. Niharika, who had completed her morning puja, was reminded of Shivaay's absence every time she passed by something that belonged to him. Her thoughts, though unbidden, often wandered to how he might be managing in a foreign country so far away.

The time difference created a peculiar dissonance in their lives—while Shivaay was beginning his workday with precision and focus, Niharika was slowly winding down hers, finding solace in routine yet feeling the subtle pull of his absence.

As the day in India came to an end, the Ranawat mansion grew quiet. Niharika, after finishing her evening rituals and dinner with the family, retreated to her room. The silence in the space felt heavier than usual, a stark reminder of Shivaay's absence.

She changed into her nightwear and sat by the window, staring at the stars twinkling against the inky sky. Her thoughts wandered back to her brief conversation with Anand and Indra earlier in the day about resuming her studies. The prospect of studying again brought a sense of purpose, but it also left her wondering how Shivaay would react once he found out.

"Would he even care?" she thought to herself, shaking her head.

Despite her efforts to focus on something else, her mind kept drifting to him—how he was managing in California, whether he was eating well, and if he missed home, even just a little.

With a sigh, she finally climbed into bed. Pulling the blanket over herself, she curled up and closed her eyes, willing herself to sleep. But her thoughts wouldn't relent. The mansion felt emptier without Shivaay's presence, and though she had initially enjoyed the peace, now it only amplified the strange void his absence left.

After tossing and turning for a while, sleep finally claimed her. Her last thoughts were a silent prayer for his safety, a wish she hadn't realized she was carrying until now.

In California, Shivaay arrived at the sleek, modern office of the company he had come to negotiate with. The towering glass building reflected the bright California sun, and as he stepped out of the car, his sharp suit and commanding presence immediately drew attention.

Walking into the lavish lobby, he was greeted by a young assistant who escorted him to the executive floor. The plush interiors, accented with modern art, exuded wealth and power—something Shivaay could respect.

As he entered the boardroom, he was greeted by a tall, middle-aged man with salt-and-pepper hair and a charismatic smile.

"Ah, Mr. Ranawat," the man said, extending his hand. "Welcome to California. I’m Charles Whitaker, CEO of Whitaker Enterprises. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you."

Shivaay gave a polite nod and shook his hand firmly. "Mr. Whitaker, the pleasure is mine. I’ve heard a lot about your company and its impressive growth in recent years."

Charles chuckled. "Well, we’re trying to keep up with the global giants, including The Ranawat Group. Please, have a seat."

Shivaay sat across from Charles, his sharp eyes scanning the room briefly before focusing on the man in front of him. The two began discussing the details of the collaboration—the construction projects, timelines, and financial investments.

As the conversation progressed, Shivaay’s composed demeanor impressed Charles. His attention to detail, strategic thinking, and ability to anticipate challenges showcased why he was a respected business tycoon despite his young age.

"I must say, Mr. Ranawat," Charles said, leaning back in his chair, "your reputation precedes you. It’s not every day I meet someone so young who commands such authority."

Shivaay gave a faint smile. "It’s all about being prepared and ensuring no room for error. The Ranawat Group believes in precision and excellence."

Charles nodded appreciatively. "I like that. I think this partnership will be a fruitful one. Let’s finalize the terms over dinner tomorrow. My wife insists we host you at our home—she loves meeting interesting personalities."

Shivaay inclined his head slightly. "I’ll look forward to it."

As the meeting concluded, Shivaay left the office with a sense of accomplishment. Yet, as he returned to his car, a fleeting thought of Niharika crossed his mind. He wondered what she might be doing at that very moment, her image briefly interrupting his usual focus on work.

Shaking his head, he dismissed the thought and prepared himself for the next task on his schedule.

After the meeting, Shivaay returned to his penthouse, feeling a strange emptiness despite the productive day. He loosened his tie and sank into the couch, pulling out his phone. His mind wandered to Niharika. After hesitating for a moment, he dialed Riya’s number.

"Hello, bhaiya!" Riya’s cheerful voice came through.

"Riya," Shivaay said in his usual authoritative tone, though there was a softness beneath it. "How is everyone there?"

"Everyone is fine, bhaiya. Why? Missing us already?" she teased.

"I just wanted to ask..." He paused, reluctant to sound too curious. "How is Niharika?"

Riya chuckled. "Oh, so it's bhabhisa you’re missing, not us! Why don’t you just call her directly, bhaiya? You don’t need a messenger!"

Shivaay frowned. "Riya, don’t start. Just answer me."

"She’s fine, bhaiya," Riya replied with a laugh. "A little quiet, though. Maybe because you’re not here to argue with her."

Before Shivaay could respond, Ishaan walked into the room on the other side of the call. "Who’s that, Riya?"

"It’s bhaiya," she replied, handing the phone to Ishaan.

"Bhaiya!" Ishaan’s enthusiastic voice filled the line. "How’s California?"

"It’s fine," Shivaay replied. "How’s everything there?"

"Good, bhaiya," Ishaan said. Then, lowering his voice, he added, "Tau sa is planning something for bhabhisa. He’s thinking about her studies as a cardiologist. He talked to the family about enrolling her in a college for online classes. She’ll go in person for practicals and training."

Shivaay raised an eyebrow. "Really? And how did she react to that?"

"She was concerned," Ishaan replied. "She’s worried about how you might feel about it."

Shivaay was silent for a moment before saying, "Why would I mind? Her studies are important."

Ishaan hesitated before speaking again. "Maybe because... of what happened in the past. You weren’t exactly supportive of her before, bhaiya."

Shivaay closed his eyes, the weight of his past actions settling over him. He hated being reminded of the times he’d hurt her—times he wished he could undo.

"I’m not the same person I was," Shivaay said quietly. "If this is what she wants, I’ll support her."

Ishaan smiled on the other end. "That’s good to hear, bhaiya. I think it’ll mean a lot to her."

Shivaay ended the call shortly after, leaning back into the couch. The thought of Niharika pursuing her dreams brought a rare warmth to his chest. Yet, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt for the barriers he’d once placed in her path.

Staring at the red dupatta still draped over the armrest, he resolved to make amends—not with grand gestures, but with genuine support for the woman she was striving to become.

Ishaan knocked on Niharika's door and stepped in, finding her organizing her books.

"Bhabhisa," he called out, leaning casually against the doorframe.

Niharika turned to him with a questioning look. "Yes, Ishaan? What is it?"

He smiled and walked closer. "I wanted to tell you something important. I spoke to bhaiya."

Her expression immediately shifted to concern. "Shivaay? What did he say?"

Ishaan nodded reassuringly. "Relax, Bhabhisa. He’s completely okay with you continuing your studies. In fact, he supports the idea. He said he has no objections."

Niharika blinked, surprised. "He... agreed?"

"Yes," Ishaan confirmed. "And he sounded genuine about it. I know you were worried about how he'd react, but you don't have to be. Tau sa's plan is moving forward without any resistance from bhaiya."

Niharika lowered her gaze, processing the information. "I didn’t expect him to agree so easily. After everything..."

Ishaan placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Sometimes, people surprise us, bhabhisa. Maybe bhaiya is trying in his own way. Just focus on your studies now. The rest will fall into place."

She gave a small nod, still unsure but visibly relieved. "Thank you, Ishaan. For everything."

He grinned. "Always here to help you, bhabhisa. Now, get ready to become the best cardiologist ever. We’re all rooting for you."

Niharika managed a small smile, feeling a mixture of relief and apprehension. While Shivaay’s approval was unexpected, it gave her a sliver of hope that perhaps, things could change.

The morning sun filtered through the kitchen windows as Niharika busied herself with breakfast preparations. The aroma of freshly cooked parathas filled the air, mingling with the scent of brewing tea. Despite the quiet hum of activity around her, her mind was preoccupied with Ishaan’s words from earlier.

Shivaay had agreed to let her pursue her studies. The thought lingered, bringing a mix of emotions—relief, confusion, and a faint sense of gratitude she couldn’t quite shake.

She placed the dishes on the dining table, arranging them neatly as the family began to trickle in. Anand was the first to notice her.

“Niharika, everything looks great as always,” he said with a warm smile, taking his seat.

“Thank you, Chacha sa,” she replied politely, stepping aside to pour tea for Shweta, who had just arrived.

Shweta looked at Niharika closely. "You seem more focused today," she remarked. "Something good happened?"

Niharika paused, her hands resting on the teapot. "Just... some good news about my studies," she said softly, trying to downplay her emotions.

Shweta exchanged a quick glance with Anand, a smile forming on her lips. "That's wonderful, Niharika. I’m glad things are falling into place for you."

As the rest of the family joined the table, the breakfast conversation shifted to other topics, but Niharika’s thoughts kept circling back to the support she had unexpectedly received. She couldn’t deny the tiny flicker of determination growing inside her.

She served everyone quietly, her mind whispering a silent prayer that this new chapter in her life would unfold smoothly.