One week had passed since the tumultuous events that had shaken the Rathor family. Sia, now much healthier, was surrounded by love and care. Devika and Shalini took their roles as doting mothers-in-law seriously, constantly fussing over her with an array of homemade delicacies and endless pampering.
Aarav and Ishika had become regular companions for Sia during her recovery, often spending time with her and the dogs. Candy and Snowy adored the attention, with Candy attempting to sneak treats from Ishika while Snowy happily played fetch with Aarav.
Arjun, meanwhile, found himself frustrated. Office responsibilities had kept him away from Sia more than he would have liked. He longed for more time with her but made a mental note to plan something special soon.
A Surprising Visitor
One sunny afternoon, the serene atmosphere of the Rathor mansion shifted as Mayank entered, accompanied by Neha. The moment they stepped inside, the body language of all the Rathor men became noticeably stiff.
Candy immediately barked at Mayank, his tiny frame vibrating with indignation. Arjun couldn't suppress his smirk at Candy's reaction. Snowy, on the other hand, wagged her tail and rushed toward Neha, happily receiving head pats from her.
Mayank approached Sia, his expression softer than usual. "I owe you an apology, Sia," he said sincerely. "I've wronged you, and I'll carry that guilt. But I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive meâand maybe even accept me as a friend?"
Sia smiled politely, her eyes betraying a trace of hesitation. "It's in the past now, Mayank. Let's move forward."
"And before I forget," Mayank added, his tone brightening, "your book is ready. It's set to hit the market next week."
Sia's eyes widened in surprise, her hands flying to her mouth. "What? Really? I can't believe it!"
Mayank nodded, pleased with her reaction, while Arjun's jaw tightened imperceptibly. The moment Mayank leaned in slightly to show her the finalized cover on his phone, Arjun stepped forward and stood right beside Sia. His proximity wasn't subtle, and it sent a clear message: She's my wife. Back off.
Mayank straightened, glancing briefly at Arjun, whose unreadable expression was laced with quiet possessiveness. "I'll leave you to celebrate," Mayank said with a small smile, stepping back. Aarav smirks on his brother's behaviour.
The Mystery of the Book
As Mayank left, the rest of the family, particularly Ishika, exchanged curious glances. "Wait," Ishika said, her voice brimming with excitement. "What book?"
The room turned to Sia, who hesitated for a moment, unsure how to respond. Before she could answer, Neha, ever the spokesperson, explained, "Sia wrote a bookâa memoir, actually. It's about her journey, her struggles, and everything she's overcome. Only Aarav, Arjun, Mayank, and I knew about it until now."
The room erupted in a mix of shock and pride. Even Sia is shocked that Arjun also knows about her little secret. Devika's eyes shimmered with tears, while Shalini clapped her hands together in joy. Vijay and Sanjay shared a proud smile. But it was Ishika who reacted most dramatically.
"You wrote a whole book and didn't tell me?" she exclaimed, practically pouncing on Sia and enveloping her in a tight hug. "I'm going to be the first one to read it!"
Sia laughed softly, her cheeks flushed from all the attention.
Arjun rolled his eyes, his lips twitching into a grin. "You two are insufferable."
Neha narrowed her eyes playfully. "You're just jealous of our chemistry, Arjun."
Arjun leaned back in his chair, smirking mischievously. "Oh, I'm not jealous. I'm just wondering how Sia will react when I tell her about you two. You haven't mentioned this little relationship to her yet, have you?"
Both Aarav and Neha froze, their eyes widening in unison. "You wouldn't dare!" Neha blurted out, while Aarav glared at him.
Arjun chuckled, enjoying their panic. "Relax," he said softly. "But on a serious note, you should tell her yourselves. She'll be the happiest to know."
Later, Aarav and Neha nervously approached Sia, who was lounging in her room with Candy and Snowy curled up beside her. "Sia, we, uh... need to tell you something," Neha began hesitantly, exchanging a glance with Aarav.
Sia looked up, her expression calm. "Go on."
Aarav cleared his throat. "Neha and I... we're, um, together."
Sia simply smiled and said, "I know."
Their jaws dropped simultaneously. "Wait, what?!" Neha exclaimed, while Aarav looked utterly dumbfounded.
At that moment, Arjun stepped into the room, laughing heartily.
Sia shook her head, amused, and turned to Neha. "You're my soul sister, Neha. Did you really think I wouldn't notice? And Aarav," she said, fixing him with a teasing look, "I've known you since childhood. You think you can hide something this obvious from me?"
Neha groaned, burying her face in her hands. Aarav scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. "So... you're not mad?" he asked cautiously.
Sia laughed, her tone light and playful. "Mad? Of course not. But you both better not hide anything else from me now onwards."
Candy barked in agreement, and Snowy wagged her tail enthusiastically as Arjun smirked, clearly enjoying the entire scene. The room filled with laughter, the tension melting away as the trio teased one another, solidifying their bond even further.