Chapter 15: CHAPTER 13

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Noor's POV

I was sulking in my room, the weight of Crocodile's grumpiness pressing down on me like a cloud of doom.

Seriously, could the universe be any more unfair? It was my birthday, and here I was, banished to my own personal prison, thanks to the aforementioned grump.

I mean, all I asked was a pen. I didn't even cheat! But there I was, standing outside the classroom like some sort of criminal.

"Ugh!" I groaned, flopping back onto my bed, surrounded by a mountain of gifts from relatives I barely remembered existed.

"Happy birthday to me, right?" I rolled over to stare at the ceiling, wishing I could summon some cosmic intervention to fix my day.

Three hours until the party, and I hadn't even picked out a dress yet. My father had gone all out, arranging a bash that would make the Kardashians jealous.

Everyone would be there, except him. He probably wouldn't show up; he was too busy being a grumpy old man in a young man's body.

"Why didn't he even wish me?" I muttered to myself, staring at the two dresses hanging in my closet.

One was a sparkly blue number that screamed 'look at me!' while the other was a classic black that said, 'I'm mysterious and deep.' I sighed, biting my lip. "Decisions, decisions."

Suddenly, something caught my eye. A massive box, about five feet tall, was sitting in the corner of my room, looking like a gift from a genie.

The ribbon on it was the same shade of pink as cotton candy. I raised an eyebrow.

"What the heck is that?"

I shuffled over to it, curiosity piqued. As I pulled the ribbon, the box popped open with a soft "flump."

My jaw dropped as I gasped. Inside lay a stunning pink gown that looked exactly like the one Katrina Kaif wore in "Dil Diyan Gallan." It was like a fashion fairy had sprinkled magic dust all over it.

"No way!" I exclaimed, running my fingers over the soft fabric. "Who sent this? Am I being punked?"

Just then, my phone pinged with a message. I snatched it up, and my heart skipped a beat when I saw Crocodile's name.

"Please wear this!" he texted, his words practically pleading. "It's an apology gift."

I blinked, my mind racing. An apology gift? For making me stand outside the classroom? I couldn't help but laugh. "What's next? A puppy?"

I typed back, "Not a chance! I'll throw it in the dustbin, just you watch!"

His response came through instantly. "No, please! It's really nice, and I'm sorry for making you stand outside."

I snorted. "Nice try, grumpy. I don't need your charity, especially not on my birthday."

I tossed my phone onto the bed, feeling a weird mix of irritation and amusement. Who did he think he was, throwing expensive gowns at me?

I resumed my dress dilemma, but the pink gown kept popping into my head.

"Ugh! Why am I even considering it?" I groaned, flopping onto my bed again. "I'll look like a walking cupcake!"

But a part of me was curious. I imagined strutting into the party in that gown, everyone's jaws dropping. "Maybe I'd make Crocodile regret being a grump," I whispered to myself.

I glanced at my phone, hesitating. "Should I just try it on?" I asked the room, which, naturally, had no answer.

"Fine!" I huffed, grabbing the gown and slipping into it. The moment I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I gasped.

I looked... incredible. The gown hugged my curves perfectly and flowed like a dream. "Okay, fine, I admit it. I'm fabulous."

I twirled, the fabric swirling around me. "Now, if only Reyansh could see me like this..."

Just as I was lost in my own reflection, my phone buzzed again. "Are you wearing it yet?"

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help but smile. "You're insistent, aren't you?"

"Please, Noor. I'll make it up to you. Just wear the dress."

"Why do you care so much?" I typed back, a teasing grin on my face.

"Because," he replied, "you deserve to look amazing on your birthday. And I want to see you smile, even if it's because of my terrible taste in gifts."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You're really something, you know that?"

"Just think of it as a truce. Wear the dress, and I'll even bring you cake."

"Cake? That's your bargaining chip?" I shot back, unable to hide my amusement. "You'd better make it a good one!"

"Chocolate fudge, your favorite."

"Fine. But I'm not wearing it and that's final."

I put my phone down and admired the gown one last time. "Okay, Noor, you can do this. Time to rock the birthday party!"

Why would I wear this dress?? I have many other options and if I wear this, he may think I like him.

Huh, I won't wear this!!!

Reyansh's POV

I stepped out of the car, adjusting my cufflinks, the white tuxedo feeling both foreign and oddly fitting.

The Sharma house loomed ahead, adorned with colorful lights and an impressive array of decorations. Laughter floated through the air like a sweet melody, mingling with the scent of freshly baked cake.

All around me, people were gathering, but my eyes were searching for one person—Noor.

“Hey Bhai, what’s got you looking like you lost your favorite textbook?” Rohan sauntered up, a grin plastered across his face.

“I’m looking for Noor,” I replied, scanning the crowd. “Have you seen her?”

“Not yet. She’s probably still getting ready,” he said, rolling his eyes. “You know how she is. You’d think she was headed to the Oscars with all the fuss she makes.”

“Yeah, well, she does have a flair for the dramatic.” I chuckled, thinking of her penchant for turning even the simplest moments into grand events.

Rohan nudged me, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “You’re actually excited, aren’t you?”

“Excited? No. Just… concerned.” I waved him off, though my heart betrayed me.

After a quick chat with my parents and my grandfather—who still insisted on calling me ‘The Mathematics Prodigy’—I decided to grab a drink.

The sound of the crowd swelled, and just as I took a sip, the host’s voice broke through.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the birthday girl has arrived!”

I turned toward the entrance, my breath hitching. There she was, Noor, gliding into the room in that pink gown. The one I had gifted her.

The very one she’d claimed she wouldn’t wear. My heart raced as I admired her, the blush on her cheeks almost matching the fabric. Her hair fell in soft curls, framing her face perfectly.

“Wow, she looks stunning,” Rohan said, joining me.

“She does.” I nodded, unable to tear my gaze away.

Noor cut the cake, her laughter ringing out like music. She fed her parents first, then Rohan, who dramatically pretended to choke on the piece, earning a chorus of laughter.

When she turned to me, holding out a piece of cake, I found myself lost in her eyes.

I didn’t even register the cake until she shoved it into my mouth, her laughter ringing like music. "Thuso na!" she exclaimed, a playful glint in her eyes as everyone erupted into laughter.

I swallowed, managing a sheepish smile, but I was still entranced.

The crowd erupted in giggles, and I couldn’t help but smile. I loved this side of her—the chaotic, carefree Noor who could light up the room with her antics.

As the party buzzed around us, she moved to greet guests, leaving me to ponder my next move. I spotted her alone by the dessert table later, and my heart raced.

“Happy Birthday, Noor,” I said, stepping closer, trying to ignore the crowd around us.

“Thanks, Sir!” Her smile faltered slightly.

“Have you forgiven me for the morning incident?” I asked sheepishly.

“Yes!!” She said with smile.

I raised an eyebrow, feigning seriousness. “You mean yes?? Because of the dress I gifted you as an apology?”

She laughed, the sound bright and infectious. “Yes yes, I forgive you. But I’m only wearing this because the others were too simple.”

I chuckled, shaking my head. “I’ll take what I can get. But I’m glad you wore it. You look stunning.”

She blushed, tucking a loose curl behind her ear. “You’re just saying that.”

“No, I mean it,” I insisted, my voice softening. “Here, I have something for you too.”

I reached into my pocket and pulled out a small box, handing it to her. “It’s your birthday gift.”

Her eyebrows shot up in surprise. “But you already gave me the dress!”

“The dress was an apology gift. This is for your birthday.”

She opened the box, and her eyes widened. Inside lay a diamond pendant that sparkled like stars in the night sky.

“Wow! Sir, this is beautiful! You should’ve given this to me earlier so I could wear it for pictures.”

I scratched the back of my head, feeling sheepish. “Sorry about that. Can I put it on you now? At least for some pictures?”

“Sure,” she said, turning her back to me and gathering her hair to the side.

As my fingers brushed against her back, I felt a jolt of electricity. “Focus, focus,” I muttered, trying to keep my thoughts straight while I fastened the pendant around her neck.

“Did you say something?” she asked, glancing over her shoulder, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

“Nothing, just… trying to stay composed.”

“Good luck with that.” She giggled, and I couldn’t help but grin as I secured the pendant.

“Perfect.” I stepped back, admiring how it complemented her gown. “Now you’re truly the birthday queen.”

“Thanks, Sir. I really appreciate it.” She turned to face me, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.

The rest of the party danced by in a blur. Laughter, music, and the occasional squeal filled the air, but my thoughts were consumed by Noor.

Each moment spent with her felt like a stolen treasure, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was shifting between us.

As the night wore on, I found myself standing in the garden of her house, gazing at the stars. The cool breeze brushed against my skin, bringing with it the faint sound of Noor's laughter from inside.

“Hey, grumpy professor!” She appeared beside me, leaning against the railing. “What are you doing out here alone?”

“Just enjoying the view,” I replied, glancing sideways at her.

She laughed, a sound that filled me with warmth. “You know, you should smile more. You look much better when you do.”

“I’ll take that under advisement.” I chuckled. “But I don’t want to scare people away.”

“No way! You’re too cute to scare anyone.” She nudged me playfully.

“Cute? Is that your way of calling me a teddy bear?” I raised an eyebrow.

“Maybe.” Her grin widened. “But seriously, thanks for coming tonight. It means a lot.”

“Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Her gaze softened. “You’re always there for me, Sir. I really appreciate it.”

I just smiled in response.

As the night wrapped itself around us, I knew one thing for certain—Noor had turned my world upside down. And while I had come to the party to celebrate her, it felt like I was the one receiving the greatest gift of all.

As I drove home, my thoughts swirled around her laughter, her smile, and the way she made me feel—alive, hopeful, and maybe just a little in love.

My phone pinged again, another message from Noor.

“Thanks for everything. ❤️”

I smiled, realizing that whatever chaos awaited us, I was ready to embrace it.

But wait what!!!!

She sent a heart!!!! That one too red!!!

OMG!!!

"Stop being childish Reyansh." I scolded myself.

The night may have ended, but something beautiful was just beginning. With this I drifted to sleep.

The sun poured through my window, bright and intrusive, nudging me awake.

I rubbed my eyes and glanced at the clock. It was way too early for a Sunday, but the thought of coffee at my favorite café pulled me from the warmth of my bed.

I rolled out, my feet hitting the cool floor with a soft thud. After two hours in gym and having a quick shower, I dressed, throwing on a worn T-shirt and jeans that fit me like a second skin.

“Mom, I’m heading out!” I shouted down the hall, barely waiting for a response. I grabbed my wallet, keys, and headed out into the bustling world.

The air was crisp, tinged with the scent of fresh pastries wafting down the street.

The café, a cozy little nook with mismatched furniture and local art on the walls, was just around the corner. I pushed the door open, the bell above chiming a friendly greeting.

As I stepped inside, my gaze landed on Noor, her fiery red hair catching the light as she leaned over the counter, her hands flailing in frustration at the cashier.

“Ugh, seriously! I just need a coffee!”

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. I approached, catching snippets of her chaotic energy. “What’s going on?”

“No cash!” she exclaimed, throwing her hands up. “And my Paytm is being a total jerk! I just want my caramel macchiato!”

The cashier shrugged, a look of indifference plastered on her face. “Card machine’s broken.”

“Great. Just great!” Noor spun around to face me, her expression shifting from frustration to a hopeful grin.

“Sir, you wouldn’t happen to have some spare hundreds, would you? Please.”

“Sure, I’ll get it,” I said, pulling out my wallet. I handed her the cash, and she beamed at me, that chaotic energy of hers softening for a moment.

“Thanks! You’re a lifesaver!”

We stood in silence as we waited for our drinks. The café buzzed with the low hum of chatter and the occasional clatter of cups.

The smell of coffee enveloped us, a comforting blanket. I took a sip of my black coffee, the rich bitterness grounding me. Noor, on the other hand, bounced on her toes with excitement, her eyes gleaming as she received her drink.

“Let’s go for a walk,” she suggested, her voice bright.

“Sure,” I replied, trying to match her enthusiasm.

We stepped outside, the sun now fully awake, bathing the street in warmth. We strolled side by side, the chatter around us fading into background noise.

“So, how was the birthday celebration?” I asked, glancing at her.

“Epic! It was really fun!” she laughed, her voice light and airy.

“Don’t remind me,” I replied, shaking my head with a smirk. “You were a walking disaster waiting to happen.”

Oh actually I remembered that pendant moment.

“Hey!” she protested, nudging me playfully. “It’s called ‘living life to the fullest.’”

I chuckled, the sound deep and rumbling. “More like living life to the messiest.”

“Oh, come on!” she laughed, her cheeks flushed with joy. “What’s life without a little chaos?”

As we continued walking, I noticed a group of people up ahead, their laughter ringing out.

Suddenly, they surged forward, pushing past us like a wave. I barely had time to react when I saw Noor stumble, her foot catching on the uneven pavement.

“Noor!” I shouted, lunging forward, but it was too late. She fell onto the road with a soft thud, the sound echoing in my ears.

“Ugh!” She groaned, cradling her arm as she sat up. Tears pooled in her eyes, threatening to spill over.

“Are you okay?” I rushed to her side, panic clawing at my chest.

“It’s just my arm,” she winced, trying to brush it off with a shaky smile.

“You need to see a doctor.”

“No, it’s nothing serious!” she insisted, her voice firm but laced with pain.

I frowned, crossing my arms. “You’re clearly in pain. We’re going. Now.”

With a reluctant nod, she let me help her to her feet. We walked slowly, her steps hesitant, each one a reminder of her injury. The hospital was just a few blocks away, but it felt like miles.

Once we arrived, the sterile scent of antiseptic hit us. I guided her to the reception, and after a brief wait, we were ushered into an examination room. The doctor came in, his demeanor calm and reassuring as he examined her arm.

“Minor fracture,” he said, glancing at me. “It’ll heal in about a week.”

“Thank God,” I breathed, relief washing over me. Noor let out a soft whimper, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

“See? Told you it was nothing serious,” she whispered, her bravado fading.

“Yeah, well, you could have fooled me,” I replied, my tone teasing but with a hint of genuine concern.

“Just a little hiccup!” she insisted, a brave smile spreading across her face.

The doctor wrapped her arm in a soft splint, and I watched as Noor winced at the pressure.

“Now, you’re going to need to call your mother and let her know what happened,” I said, handing her the phone I found in her bag.

She took it, and I noticed it was unlocked, the screen brightening to reveal.....

Smut??

“Uh, Noor?” I stammered, my eyes widening as I caught sight of the explicit content displayed. “What the heck are you reading?”

Her cheeks flushed deep crimson, and she snatched the phone from my hands, fumbling to turn it off. “I—uh, that’s not mine! I swear!”

I couldn’t help but laugh, the tension easing. “Right. Sure. Just a coincidence?”

“Shut up!” she shot back, but the laughter in her voice betrayed her.

I turned away, pretending to be focused on something else as she called her mother.

As she spoke, I caught snippets of her conversation, her voice softening as she explained everything.

“Yeah, Mom, I’m fine… Just a little fall… No, it’s not a big deal…”

Once she hung up, I guided her out of the hospital, the sunlight hitting us like a warm embrace.

“Let’s get you home,” I said, my tone gentle.

“Thanks for being my knight in shining armor,” she replied, a teasing glint in her eye.

“More like a grumpy math professor in a faded T-shirt,” I countered, rolling my eyes.

She laughed, the sound brightening the air around us. “But you’re my grumpy math professor.”

“Yeah, yeah,” I said, shaking my head. “Just keep that phone locked next time.”

“Or I’ll just delete my phone's history,” she shot back, a cheeky grin on her face.

I couldn’t help but smile at her, the chaos of the day fading into a comfortable camaraderie.

As we walked, I could feel the weight of our friendship shifting, deepening in ways I hadn’t expected.

The stakes had felt high today, but in that moment, all that mattered was getting her home safe.

The laughter we shared, the moments of fear and relief, lingered in the air between us, weaving something new into the fabric of our friendship.

Is this friendship?? Maybe...

When we reached her home, I walked her to the door, ensuring she was steady on her feet.

“Thanks for today, Sir. Really,” she said, her voice sincere.

“Just don’t make a habit of falling in the street,” I replied, my tone teasing but my heart light.

“I’ll try,” she giggled, then paused, her expression turning serious for a moment. “You’re a good friend.”

I nodded, the weight of her words settling between us. “And you’re a chaotic mess, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

She rolled her eyes, but the smile on her face told me she appreciated it. With a final wave, I turned to leave, the warmth of her laughter echoing in my mind.

Today had been unpredictable, chaotic, but it had also been something else entirely—a reminder of the bond we shared, and perhaps, the promise of something more in the days to come.

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