chapter 29

The door shut behind the professor with a dull thud, and the murmurs in the lecture hall died down instantly."Good morning," the middle-aged man said, placing his worn leather bag on the desk. " I'm Professor Agnivesh Dutta, and I'll be taking your lecture on Constitutional Law this semester."His voice was calm but held the sharpness of experience. He adjusted his spectacles, picked up a marker, and turned to the whiteboard.The board filled with his neat, deliberate handwriting.Pari's pen immediately found rhythm. Her nervousness from earlier had faded, this, she understood. This felt like home.Her eyes followed the professor's every word as she scribbled in her notebook with practiced ease. Her handwriting was elegant, precise. The kind that made people want to borrow her notes.Studies? She had always loved them. Books had never judged her. They didn't ask where she came from, what she'd been through. They only demanded attention and in return, gave her power.She underlined key phrases, made small side-notes in the margin, even drew a tiny scale symbol for justice next to the heading.Around her, some students yawned, a few were scrolling their phones discreetly, and a couple in the corner whispered jokes.But Pari? She didn't care.For the first time in years, she felt like she belonged somewhere that wasn't gilded in fear or secrets.This was hers.Her slate.Her beginning.And she would protect it fiercely.As the lecture moved toward its end, the professor closed his marker and turned back to the class."Alright, everyone, revise what we've covered today. Tomorrow, I'll ask a few of you some basic questions. Don't come unprepared."Pari gave a small nod to herself and underlined the last sentence she wrote. Beside her, Prena, who hadn't even opened her bag the entire time widened her eyes dramatically.He's gonna ask questions? Seriously? she thought, peeking sideways again.Her eyes casually scanned Pari's notes. Neat, structured, and full of highlights. She gave a silent whistle of appreciation. Impressive.She's quiet, smart, and clearly serious about studies, Prena mused, now more curious than annoyed. She might actually be useful.As soon as the professor left, the room buzzed back to life. Chairs dragged, zippers zipped, conversations started again. Pari quietly packed her notebook, slipped the pen back into the holder, and stood up, adjusting the strap of her handbag.Just as she turned to leave-"Hey!"Pari stopped in her tracks and turned around.Prena, with her signature baggy jeans swaying and her black crop top slightly crumpled from leaning back, slung her backpack over one shoulder and jogged to catch up.She offered a lopsided smirk. "You're new, right?"Pari blinked, a little unsure of the sudden attention. "Uh... yeah.""I'm Prena. Sit with me tomorrow."Not a question. A casual command. But her tone wasn't harsh anymore. It was curious.Pari gave a hesitant smile. "Okay.""Cool." Prena shoved her hands into her pockets, then paused. "Nice notes, by the way. I'll need a peek sometimes."As they began walking, Pari thought Prena would go off on her own, but to her surprise, Prena stayed right by her side."What's your name, by the way?"Pari glanced at her. "Pari.""Oh? As in angel?"Prena attempted a joke, but Pari just blinked, unamused. Prena sighed dramatically."Bad joke. Anyway, I'm Prena."She extended her hand for a shake, which Pari accepted with a smile." So? Canteen?"Prena asked and Pari hesitated for a moment before nodding okay.The canteen was buzzing with students, laughter echoing off the walls, and the tempting aroma of samosas and coffee in the air. Pari walked beside Prena, a little hesitant but comforted by the way Prena shoved open the door with confidence and led her to an empty table near the window."Sit," Prena said, motioning to the chair as she dropped her bag with a loud thud. "You're having coffee with me. No negotiations."Pari nodded lightly and settled in, her fingers nervously adjusting the strap of her handbag in her lap.Prena returned with two paper cups of steaming coffee and slid one toward her. "So... you from this city?"Pari shook her head. "No. Just moved recently.""Figures. You don't have the 'city girl' vibe yet," Prena said, sipping her coffee. "Too polite."Pari raised an eyebrow, amused. "And you do?""Absolutely," Prena smirked. "I'm rude, direct, and allergic to boring people."Pari chuckled softly, looking down into her coffee. "You're not that rude.""Only to those who deserve it," Prena replied with a wink.As they spoke, Prena leaned back in her chair, stretching lazily and that's when her gaze dropped to Pari's neck. Her eyes squinted slightly as they landed on the thin, glinting chain, the small gold mangalsutra peeking just above the neckline of her fabric.Her brows lifted."Wait... you married?"Pari froze for a beat, fingers brushing her cup. She looked down at her mangalsutra briefly, as if forgetting it was visible." Uhm, yeah."Pari replied, hiding it under her dress. She just didn't want attention.Prena's lips parted slightly, surprised, but she didn't let it show too much. "Damn. You're my age and already married?"Pari gave a tiny smile. "Long story."Prena stared for a moment longer, then softened slightly, not enough for anyone else to notice, but enough for Pari to feel." So, who's the lucky guy?"She asked, sipping her coffee.Pari smiled, though in her heart she knew she was the lucky one. She parted her lips to answer, but Prena jumped in with another question." Is it arranged or love?"Pari paused. Uhm... neither, really. But she figured it was easier to just go with the arranged story. Before she could even say that, Prena spoke again." Does he study as well? I mean, he must be your age?"Her eyes narrowed in curiosity, clearly trying to piece things together.Pari blinked. Oh, no no... he doesn't study. He owns half the buildings around this place, quite literally. From commercial spaces to residential towers, his influence loomed over the city like an unseen empire. His businesses weren't limited to just real estate; they stretched across multiple sectors—hospitality, logistics, even a few luxury brands. His calendar was a battlefield of meetings, mergers, and decisions that affected hundreds, maybe thousands of people.He never talked about it much, but Pari had seen the respect he commanded, the way people stood straighter around him, the quiet power in his presence.He was the kind of man people didn't question. And yet, despite all that, he still remembered to fill her wallet with cash, remind her to eat, and kiss her forehead like she was his whole world.Pari was about to reply but Prena's phone rang and she excused herself and picked up the call then walked outside the canteen.Pari sighed and glanced at her mobile and his photo flashed on her lock screen.I miss you already..She thought and as if the universe transferred her message to him, she got a message from her husband.All okay?She smiled widely and quickly put the cup down before typing a message for him.Yes.She chewed her lower lip and waited for his message which came in a few seconds.Okay. Going to a meeting. Will be there at 4 straight.She smiled again, this time softer, more to herself than to the screen. Just then, Prena returned and flopped down on the seat again, eyeing her suspiciously." You look like someone just dropped a love letter into your lap."She smiled shyly and put her phone back on the table." Who was that?"Pari chose to initiate a conversation. Prena's expression shifted for a second which she hid by taking a sip from her coffee." My mother."Pari nodded.There was a pause. Not awkward, but strangely comforting.Prena nodded slowly, fiddling with the sleeve of her oversized denim jacket. "You're kind of strange, Pari."Pari raised a brow. "Strange?""Yeah," Prena smirked. "In a... calm and sweet way. Like you don't belong to all this mess, but somehow, you fit."Pari chuckled, her gaze dropping to her coffee. "You're not what I expected either."Prena smiled, but this time, just slightly which reached her eyes. "Good."They sat in silence for a few seconds, the buzz of the canteen moving around them. And somehow, between sips of coffee and shared glances, a quiet friendship had begun to bloom.As the clock neared the hour, the canteen started to empty slowly with students rushing back to their lectures.Prena glanced at her phone, groaned a little and looked at Pari, "What class do you have now?"Pari pulled out her folded schedule from her bag and scanned it quickly. "Legal History," she said, adjusting her bag strap.Prena leaned over to peek and grinned, "Same! Guess you're stuck with me for a while."Pari smiled softly, "I don't mind.""Careful," Prena teased as they walked side by side out of the canteen, "Say things like that and I might start liking you."Pari chuckled as they made their way through the hallway. The sunlight streamed in through the tall windows, students rushing past them in all directions. There was an odd sense of comfort walking beside Prena. Her presence was chaotic, loud, and unapologetically bold but somehow, it didn't make Pari uncomfortable. If anything, it made the unfamiliar walls of the university feel a little less intimidating." Do you know where the class is?" Pari asked."Course I do," Prena replied smugly. "Stick with me, angel."Pari rolled her eyes at the nickname but said nothing as they climbed up the stairs and entered the corridor. They stepped inside the classroom.Pari's first day at the university unfolded far better than she had expected. With Prena by her side, the overwhelming corridors and new faces didn't feel as frightening anymore. Despite Prena's sharp tongue and bold exterior, she had a strange warmth that Pari grew to notice between their classes.Pari had always been a sincere student, and it showed. She scribbled every word the professor said, highlighted important dates, and kept her handwriting neat, even under pressure. Prena teased her for it, of course, but never in a mean way. " You're going to make all of us look like fools," she had said, flipping through Pari's pristine notes. And Pari had only laughed softly in response.As the sun started dipping lower in the sky, the final lecture came to an end. Pari packed her bag carefully, checking to ensure her schedule was back in place, and followed the stream of students out. Prena walked with her until they reached the campus garden.Prena waved her bye, " see you tomorrow."Pari smiled and waved as well, stared at her until she hoped in a car which was opened by her driver. She sighed as Prena's car disappeared from her sight.She checked the time on her mobile. 4:10She stepped out of the building slowly, scanning the familiar parking area where she'd left Vikrant in the morning. Her heart skipped as her eyes searched for him. There was something oddly comforting about knowing he would be thereBut Mr. Agnihotri was late.Pari tapped her foot gently against the pavement, the soft thud echoing the ticking seconds in her mind. At first, she thought maybe he was just finding a place to park. But five minutes passed. Then ten. The crowd around her thinned out, students disappearing in groups, laughter trailing behind them. No sign of his car. No message. No call.She let out a breath and dropped her gaze to the ground, slowly leaning her back against the cold stone pillar behind her. Her fingers clutched the strap of her handbag a little tighter. Why didn't he call if he had to be late? That wasn't like him. Not her Vikrant. He was the kind who'd worry if she skipped a meal, let alone leave her waiting without a word.A tiny pit of unease began to form in her stomach. She blinked and looked at her phone. No notifications. Her screen still lit up with the same wallpaper.Maybe he got caught up in a meeting, she reasoned silently. Maybe there was traffic. Maybe... she paused and shook her head.Still, her heart refused to stop pacing.The sleek black car finally pulled into the campus driveway and rolled to a gentle stop in front of her. The tinted window slid down with a soft hum, revealing Vikrant behind the wheel, his brows furrowed as he caught sight of her lost in thought.She hadn't even noticed the car until-Beep. Beep.She startled, jerking her head up as the horn cut through her thoughts. Her eyes, dull just a second ago, lit up instantly the moment they met him.She startled, jerking her head up as the horn cut through her thoughts. Her eyes, dull just a second ago, lit up instantly the moment they met him.Vikrant's frown softened, a crooked smile tugging at his lips. Without a word, he tilted his chin slightly toward the passenger seat, gesturing to her to come in.Pari's heart fluttered as she pushed herself off the pillar, clutching her bag tightly as she made her way to the car. The door clicked open before she even touched the handle, his subtle gesture never missing a beat.She slipped in, shutting the door quietly behind her, but her silence didn't hide the warmth blooming across her face."You're late," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, though there was no real accusation in it."And you look like you were about to cry," he replied, scanning her face quickly before pulling the car back onto the road.She made a displeasing face before settling her bag over her lap." Why did you take so much time?"He smiled, " look at the backseat."She frowned and looked back only to gasp seeing a bouquet of mixed flowers." Ye kiske liye hai?"( For whom?)He passed her a judgemental look." Bhagwan ke aashirwaad se ek patni hai hamari. Shayad usi ke liye."( By God's blessing, I have a wife. Maybe for her.)" Hamare liye?"( For me?)She chirped and grabbed the bouquet, inhaling its fragrance." Never knew my wife could be this clueless. I mean, I don't spend money on just anyone."Pari almost glared at him. "There's no special day today, so how was I supposed to guess?"He changed gear, smiling. "Well... every day is special."She placed the bouquet gently on her lap, stifling a yawn. He glanced at her sideways."Tired?"She gave a small nod as he slowed the car at a red light. Thirty seconds to go."Come on, put your head here," he said, patting his lap.Her eyes flicked down. "No... I mean, I'm okay-""Pari," he said, tone soft but firm, "don't make me repeat myself.""Why so rude?" she muttered, slipping off her footwear quietly.He chuckled. "If only you knew how rude I can actually be.""I don't want to know," she mumbled, lying down across the passenger seat and resting her head on his lap.A shy smile crept onto her lips as his free hand gently moved to her head, fingers brushing through her hair."Sleep for a while," he said, voice low. "It'll take around 45 minutes to reach home."" Won't you ask about my day?"She asked." Pari, we have the whole night. Take rest for a while," he said.Pari let out a soft breath as the car rolled forward again, the soft hum of the engine lulling her. Vikrant's hand, steady on the wheel, occasionally drifted back to her hair, fingers gliding gently through the strands with a tenderness that surprised even him.She shifted slightly, nestling closer, her cheek brushing against the fabric of his shirt. His touch didn't falter, if anything, it grew slower, more deliberate.She closed her eyes and it did not take her much time to slip into her dreamland. The tiredness from morning to evening had gripped her body in such a way that she just wanted to sleep on the bed, but his lap's also good- better than bed.The drive stretched on in gentle stillness, the city slowly giving way to quieter lanes and tree-lined roads. The rhythm of the car, the faint music playing in the background, and the warmth of Vikrant's hand in her hair became a lullaby of sorts.Pari remained curled up, her head nestled on his lap, one hand loosely holding his. She wasn't fully asleep but not quite awake either. Somewhere in between, wrapped in the comfort of his presence.Vikrant didn't speak much. His gaze shifted between the road and her peaceful face. At every red light, his hand would rest fully on her head, stroking her hair softly, as if memorizing the texture.As they neared their home, the familiar gates came into view. Vikrant slowed down as they approached the driveway."We're here," he said quietly, brushing her hair one last time.Pari stirred, blinking slowly. Her voice was groggy. " Already?"She sat up, fixing her hair. He stared at her as he grabbed her handbag, wore her sandals and went out of the car, still sleepy.He too came out and locked the car. He took long strides to her and grabbed her handbag. She looked at him and blinked her sleepy eyes." Maa has cooked food for you," he said and grabbed her hand to lead her inside." Really?" Her tiredness flew away as she felt her heart skipping a beat. How can he and her mother-in-law be so sweet? Never, in her life she had met such people that she almost thought sweet people did not exist." Pari, you're here!"Akansha chirped and moved to her. Pari smiled and hugged her." How was the first day?"Akansha's voice rang out with warmth as she moved toward her. Pari smiled and stepped into her embrace, returning the hug gently.Without waiting for an answer, Akansha laced her fingers through Pari's and pulled her toward the living room. Vikrant followed behind with a small, content smile playing on his lips. His mother had always longed for a daughter but fate had other plans for her.Akansha chatted with Pari for a while, her face glowing with affection, before ushering her gently toward the stairs. "Go freshen up, beta. I've made all your favorites today."Pari smiled gratefully and nodded before heading upstairs.Vikrant took the opportunity. "Maa-"But Akansha didn't pause. She turned on her heel and walked straight toward the kitchen, now bustling with maids prepping the evening meal."Maa?" he called again, following her. As she reached the doorway, he gently caught her wrist.Akansha turned, surprised by the sudden gesture."I was told you haven't rested since morning," he said softly, concern shadowing his face. "Please don't overdo it. The maids can handle everything."She tsked, brushing off his concern with a light scoff. "Let me be, Vikrant. I'm not made of glass. I've cooked a thousand meals in my life, can't I make a few for my daughter-in-law?"She slipped her wrist free and walked into the kitchen anyway. Vikrant stood at the threshold, watching her carefully.She may brush it off, but he knew the truth, she wasn't as strong as she once was. The doctors had been clear: she needed rest, minimal stress, and moments of happiness. But Akansha refused to sit still. No matter what anyone said, she wouldn't stop, especially not for Pari.He sighed, his chest tightening with helplessness. She might smile for the world, but he could see the fatigue behind it....Pari descended the stairs slowly, dressed in a fresh pastel kurta, her damp hair loosely falling over one shoulder. Vikrant followed her from behind, having changed into a plain black t-shirt and pajama pants. A soft domestic air hung between them.Akansha was already seated at the table, placing the last bowl of curry on the spread. She looked up and her face lit up seeing them together."Come, sit. Everything's ready," she said, gesturing warmly.Pari smiled and moved to sit beside her, while Vikrant took the chair opposite.Akansha lovingly served Pari first, filling her plate with rice, paneer butter masala, and gajar ka halwa. "I made all this for you, beta. I hope you like it."Pari's eyes softened. "You didn't have to go through so much trouble, Maa. ""I wanted to," Akansha said simply, then turned to Vikrant. "And you—eat properly. You barely touched breakfast today."The warmth around the table slowly melted away the exhaustion from her day."How was university, Pari?" Akansha asked, pouring water into her glass."It was good... better than I expected. I made a friend too.""That's lovely!" Akansha beamed. "What's her name?""Prena. She's a bit... loud," she chuckled, "but really sweet once you get past that."Akansha's eyes lit up. "Someday, bring her home."Pari blinked in surprise. "Why?"Vikrant raised a brow at his mother's sudden invitation. "Yeah, Maa... why?""Because she's Pari's friend, that's why," Akansha said matter-of-factly, as if that alone was reason enough."No need for all that-" Vikrant began, shaking his head."Oh, we do," Akansha cut him off with a pointed look.Pari chuckled under her breath, biting back a smile. He could negotiate the toughest deals, outsmart ruthless competitors, even silence entire boardrooms with one glare but when it came to his mother, he didn't stand a chance."By the way," she began casually, "Ranvijay has been nominated for the Business Excellence Award this year."Pari looked up with mild surprise, while Vikrant merely gave a slow, indifferent nod, continuing to eat without reacting much.A few moments of silence passed before Akansha added softly, "He wants you to attend the award function."Pari instinctively turned her gaze to her husband, her fork pausing mid-air. She already knew his answer."I can't," Vikrant replied flatly, wiping his mouth with a napkin. "I have much more important work to focus on than wasting time at award shows."Akansha pressed her lips together, clearly displeased but not surprised. Pari's brows furrowed just a little, sensing the unspoken tension between the two names- Vikrant and Ranvijay." Vikrant, please.."Akansha put her hand on his which was on the table. He looked at her to make another excuse but couldn't when he caught a glint of sorrow in her eyes." Forget everything. Ranvijay has no fault. Just once.. he's been dying to hear just a little compliment from his brother."Vikrant clicked his tongue and glanced at his wife. She looked curious yet supported whatever Akansha said. He stood up," I'll see."" Vikrant-"He walked away and Akansha sighed heavily. As he disappeared from their sight and went upstairs, Pari chose to ask the question which had been disturbing since she met Ranvijay." Maa, why doesn't he like Vijay bhaiya? I mean, did something big happen between them?"Akansha looked down at her lap, the corner of her mouth tugging in a bittersweet smile."Sometimes... blood alone isn't enough to bind hearts, Pari."Pari blinked, her smile fading slowly. The words hung in the air like smoke."What do you mean, Maa?" she asked gently, sensing the shift.Akansha took a deep breath, her eyes filled up with tears. Pari decided to drop the contact, not wanting to stress her much but before she could speak, Akansha said-" Ranvijay... he's not my son. I have not given him birth."And it was enough to slip ground under Pari's feet. Pari's lips parted, but no words came out. The revelation hit her like a silent thunderstorm.Akansha didn't look at her while a long tear escaped her eyes when some hidden memories crashed into her and clenched her heart. She closed her eyes momentarily then opened them only to wipe her eyes, as if bringing herself back to reality.She looked at Pari.⋆༺✷༻⋆Share your reviews in the comment section and read more in scrollstack as early access.