52. Shivaay and Niharika

Niharika was dressed in a stunning net blue saree, its sheer fabric gracefully draping over her figure. The saree was adorned with delicate silver threadwork that shimmered subtly, adding a touch of elegance. The deep blue color of the saree contrasted beautifully against her fair complexion, and the way it hugged her curves highlighted her graceful form.

Her long hair cascaded in soft waves, some strands framing her face, while the rest flowed gently over her shoulders. Her makeup was minimal yet effective, with a soft glow to her skin, a hint of eyeliner accentuating her eyes, and a light pink gloss on her lips that gave her a fresh, natural look.

The traditional touch of sindoor in her hair part and a small bindi on her forehead added to her timeless beauty, completing her look. The simplicity yet elegance of her appearance was undeniable, and her aura seemed to radiate a quiet strength mixed with a lingering sense of vulnerability.

Niharika stood alone in the temple, seeking solace in the peaceful surroundings. The soft scent of incense filled the air, mingling with the gentle whispers of the wind. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, had a serene atmosphere that seemed to offer comfort in her troubled heart.

She moved slowly through the sacred space, her steps soft and deliberate. The flickering light of the oil lamps cast gentle shadows on the stone walls, creating a calm and meditative ambiance. Niharika closed her eyes, offering a quiet prayer as she stood before the idol of Lord Shiva.

Her hands trembled slightly as she clasped them together, but her heart found some peace in the ritual. As she prayed, her mind wandered—everyone in the house was busy with their own tasks. Ishaan was caught up in his office work, Ivaan and Riya were at college, Anita and Shweta were deeply engaged in their NGO work, and Anand and Indra were occupied with their political commitments.

In the stillness of the temple, Niharika felt a sense of detachment, yet also an overwhelming connection to the divine. The noise and demands of the world outside faded, leaving her with only her thoughts, her prayer, and the quiet presence of Lord Shiva's idol before her.

As the sleek black car pulled up to the gates of the Ranawat mansion, the security guard quickly approached. Upon seeing Shivaay stepping out of the vehicle, his eyes widened in shock and respect.

"Good afternoon, King," the guard said, his voice a mixture of awe and reverence.

Shivaay gave a nod of acknowledgment, his piercing gaze sweeping over the mansion's familiar exterior before he turned his attention to the guard. "Is everyone home?" he asked, his tone calm yet authoritative.

The guard hesitated for a moment before replying, "No, Sir. Everyone is either out or busy. Ivaan and Riya are at college, Ishaan is at the office, and Anita and Shweta are working at the NGO. Indra and Anand are tied up with political matters."

At the mention of Niharika, the guard added, "I believe she went to the temple, sir. I can show you the way if you'd like."

Shivaay's expression softened slightly as he processed the information. The temple... it had been a while since Niharika sought solace there. A faint but knowing smile tugged at the corner of his lips. Without another word, he gave a slight nod. "I'll head there straight away."

As he walked towards the temple, the steady sound of his footsteps echoed in the quiet mansion. He had always been able to sense when Niharika needed space, but today, something in him urged him to find her, to be by her side.

On his way to the temple, Shivaay made a brief stop at a local florist. He walked into the shop, his presence commanding attention, but his demeanor was soft and thoughtful. He scanned the vibrant array of flowers, his gaze settling on a bouquet of fresh, deep red roses.

He picked it up, the soft petals brushing against his fingers as he paid for the flowers. The scent of the roses filled his senses as he carefully held the bouquet, knowing that Niharika would appreciate the gesture. There was something symbolic about roses—love, passion, and a sense of connection—that made them the perfect choice in this moment.

With the bouquet in hand, he continued his journey to the temple, his heart heavy with the need to comfort her. As he walked, he thought about Niharika, wondering what had been on her mind when she sought solace in the sacred space. He knew she was strong, but today, he felt the need to be her support, to remind her that she wasn't alone.

In the temple, Niharika slowly turned to leave, her gaze lingering on the puja thaal. The weather, once clear, now seemed to betray her peace as dark clouds began to gather in the sky. She sighed softly, the heavy air matching the weight in her heart.

As she stepped towards the car, she felt a presence—something that made her heart skip a beat. She turned slightly, and there he was. Shivaay. Standing at the temple entrance, watching her. His eyes locked onto hers, his throat drying as he took in the sight of her, the soft glow of the temple light illuminating her delicate features.

The sight of her in that moment ignited something deep within him, a spark that he couldn't ignore. He felt a pull towards her, something beyond reason, beyond explanation. She, too, felt the magnetic energy between them, though neither of them moved—just standing there, connected by an unspoken bond.

As Niharika walked towards the car, still holding the puja thaal, she was unaware of Shivaay's presence. The weather seemed to reflect her emotions—clouds gathered ominously above, adding to the heavy silence. She was lost in thought, her steps steady as she moved, her mind still lingering on the moments in the temple.

Meanwhile, Shivaay approached the temple with deliberate steps, his eyes searching for her. When he finally saw her, his throat tightened. The sight of her, serene and lost in the rituals, struck him deeply. Her figure in the net blue saree, the soft glow of the temple's surroundings, and her calm demeanor ignited something inside him—something raw, intense, and almost primal.

He stood there for a moment, taking in the image of her, his gaze never wavering, as he made his way towards her.

As they continued to walk. Suddenly, she bumped into something hard. In that act her lips mistakenly touched someone's chest. She loose her balance and was about to fall.

She felt that some muscular arms catching her by waist. She sensed that touch somehow.

The plate she was holding till now swung  away and the flowers it had fall on both of them.

She looked up and met those beautiful kohl black eyes, she whispered,"Shivaay"

Every tension she had seems to disappear.

He came.

He came for her all the way from California.

Just because she was scared.

It was very overwhelming.

Overwhelmed by emotions, Niharika couldn't hold herself back. Without a second thought, she closed the small gap between them and wrapped her arms around Shivaay, hugging him tightly. Her head rested against his chest, where she could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat—a sound that instantly calmed her racing mind.

Shivaay stood still for a moment, stunned by her sudden action, but as her soft form pressed against him, he slowly brought his arms around her, holding her close. He could feel her trembling slightly, and he tightened his grip as if silently promising her that he was there, that he wouldn’t let anything harm her.

Niharika closed her eyes, allowing herself to melt into the safety of his embrace. She whispered softly, her voice trembling, "You came... You really came." Her words were a mix of disbelief and gratitude, carrying the weight of all the fears she'd been hiding.

Shivaay placed his chin gently atop her head, his voice low and reassuring as he said, "Of course, I came. Nothing can keep me away when you need me."

For a moment, time seemed to stand still in the temple courtyard. The flowers from the thaal lay scattered around them, the cool breeze rustling through the air. It was as if the world had paused, witnessing this quiet moment of solace and connection between the two of them.

Niharika pulled back slightly, tears streaming down her cheeks. Her emotions had overwhelmed her, and the weight of everything she’d been feeling came pouring out.

Shivaay cupped her face gently, his thumbs brushing away the tears from her soft skin. His touch was warm, comforting, and filled with care.

"Don't cry," he said firmly, his deep voice laced with tenderness. "You don’t deserve to shed these tears, not for anyone or anything."

His words struck her heart, and she blinked at him, her lips trembling as she tried to suppress a sob. But his steady gaze, full of reassurance, made her feel a little lighter.

Niharika looked at him, her voice trembling with a mix of guilt and gratitude. “But you have important work,” she whispered, her eyes searching his.

Shivaay let out a soft sigh, his intense gaze never leaving hers. “Nothing is more important than you, Niharika,” he said firmly. “You are my priority, always.”

Her heart fluttered at his words, and she felt a warmth she hadn’t known in a long time. Yet, a part of her still felt undeserving of such devotion. “But—”

He silenced her by gently placing a finger on her lips. “No buts,” he said. “You needed me, and I came. End of story.”

Niharika’s lips curved into a soft smile, her teary eyes glistening with emotion. “I have never imagined this,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shivaay raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk playing on his lips. “Imagined what?” he asked, his tone gentle but teasing.

“This… you leaving everything behind just for me,” she admitted, her fingers clutching his coat lightly. “I didn’t think I was worth it.”

His expression softened, and he cupped her face, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. “Don’t ever say that, Niharika,” he said, his voice firm yet tender. “You’re worth everything to me.”

Her smile widened, and for the first time in days, she felt a sense of peace wash over her.

Shivaay gently tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear and asked softly, “Should we go home?”

Niharika looked at him, her eyes still shimmering with emotions, and nodded slightly. “Yes… let’s go.”

He offered her his hand, and without hesitation, she placed hers in his. The warmth of his touch made her feel safe, as if all her fears had melted away in that moment.

“Come,” he said, his voice steady yet filled with affection, “let’s go where you belong—with me.”

With a small smile, she walked beside him, feeling a sense of belonging she hadn’t felt in a long time.

Shivaay turned to the driver and said firmly, “You can leave for now. I’ll drive today.”

The driver nodded, stepping out of the car. Shivaay opened the passenger door for Niharika, motioning for her to get in.

She hesitated for a moment, looking at him with a mix of surprise and admiration. “You’ll drive?”

He smirked lightly. “Why not? Sometimes, it’s good to take control. Especially when you’re with me.”

Niharika slipped into the passenger seat, and Shivaay walked around to the driver’s side. Settling into the seat, he adjusted the mirrors and started the car, the powerful engine roaring to life.

As they pulled out of the temple premises, she glanced at him, still amazed by his presence. “You didn’t have to come all the way here… and now, you’re even driving?”

He looked at her briefly, his voice soft yet commanding. “For you, Niharika, I’d do anything. Sit back and relax. I’ve got this.”

She couldn’t help but smile as he navigated the roads, the hum of the car blending with the quiet comfort between them. For the first time in days, she felt truly at ease.