Chapter 61: ✿Chapter 54✿

घूमने चले हम, बहारों के संग,

हाथों में हाथ, दिलों के रंग।

हवा भी लगे अब तेरी ग़ज़ल,

हर मोड़ पे महसूस हो तेरा पल।

◇

Author’s POV

The Raghuvanshi family was seated in their private jet, heading toward their destination.

Dev was snoring loudly, having fallen asleep almost as soon as they took off. Maanyata was also resting in one of the bedrooms, making full use of the luxury of their private jet.

Since it was their personal aircraft, there were two rooms available, allowing those who wanted to rest to do so.

Devika was seated beside Dev, scrolling through pictures of Andaman and Nicobar, looking at the places they planned to visit.

The elder couples were lost in their own world, chatting amongst themselves in hushed voices, enjoying their time together.

For the first time, Ruhaan was fully engrossed in his laptop, deeply focused on something. Normally, he would be the one creating chaos, but today, he was surprisingly quiet.

Meanwhile, Avyansh was seated in his usual composed manner, occasionally glancing at Avantika, who was staring out of the window, lost in thought.

“It’s night, and we’ll reach in about 2-3 hours,” Vijay informed, checking the flight status.

Devika nudged Dev with her finger. “Dadi ka toh samajh sakte hai, she’s old now. But this idiot—yeh kaunsa buddha ho gaya jo abhi se so raha hai?” she whispered.

Ajay chuckled. “Raat hai, sone do. Uth kar waise bhi shanti se toh baithega nahi. Kam se kam abhi sukoon hai.”

The atmosphere was peaceful—for now.

The Raghuvanshi family finally arrived at their destination, the private jet landing smoothly on the airstrip near the island.

The warm, salty breeze of the Andaman Sea greeted them as they stepped out. The night sky stretched endlessly above, the moon casting a silver glow over the ocean.

A fleet of luxury SUVs was already waiting for them. The moment they descended the stairs, uniformed staff stood in a line, offering greetings with polite bows.

"Welcome to Andaman, Mr. Raghuvanshi," a well-dressed man stepped forward, his posture confident yet respectful. "I’m Ishaan Kapoor, your personal concierge for this trip. I will be ensuring that your stay is nothing less than perfect."

Avyansh gave him a curt nod, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings. "Everything is prepared?"

"Of course, Sir. The private estate is fully set up as per your preferences," Ishaan replied smoothly. "Shall we?"

With that, the family was escorted into the SUVs. The drive from the airstrip to the estate was short, but breathtaking—winding roads flanked by palm trees, the occasional glimpse of the ocean sparkling under the moonlight.

Within minutes, they arrived at The Azure Haven, an exclusive private estate booked solely for them. It wasn’t just a hotel; it was a luxurious villa-style property, spread across acres of lush greenery, overlooking the serene turquoise waters.

As they entered through the grand gates, the main villa stood tall, its modern architecture blending seamlessly with nature. Glass walls, open terraces, and infinity pools made the place look no less than a dream.

Ishaan led them inside. "This estate has been designed to provide the utmost comfort and privacy. There are ten bedrooms, each with a private balcony facing the ocean. The staff is at your service 24/7, and all security measures are in place."

As they stepped inside, the interior was just as mesmerizing—high ceilings, tasteful décor in earthy tones, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering an uninterrupted view of the sea.

Ruhaan whistled lowly. "Bhai, you really went all out for this trip."

Dev, now wide awake, grinned. "Forget sightseeing. I can live here forever."

"That’s because you don’t have to pay for it," Avyansh remarked dryly, making the others chuckle.

Avantika, however, remained quiet, her gaze sweeping over the beauty of the place.

She wasn’t used to such extravagance, but she had to admit—it was breathtaking.

As they reached the main lounge, Ishaan gestured toward the staff waiting nearby.

"If you need anything, feel free to ask. Your luggage has already been placed in your rooms. Would you like a quick tour, or shall I leave you all to settle in first?"

Avyansh looked at his family. "Everyone can rest first. We’ll explore in the morning."

The group nodded, exhaustion from the journey settling in.

"Very well," Ishaan smiled. "If you need anything, I’ll be right here." With a polite bow, he stepped back, allowing them to settle into their new home for the next few days.

And with that, the Raghuvanshi family’s vacation officially began.

The warm ocean breeze danced around them as Avantika stepped out onto the villa’s private patio.

Dressed in a flowy yellow dress, she leaned against the white fence, her fingers lightly grazing the surface as she gazed at the blooming yellow flowers beside her.

The place was peaceful, but her mind wasn’t.

She sighed, lost in her thoughts when a familiar deep voice broke the silence.

"You look good in yellow."

She turned abruptly, startled, only to find Avyansh standing a few steps away. He looked effortlessly charming, dressed in a striped blue shirt, the top buttons undone, paired with white trousers.

He was adjusting his watch as if he hadn’t just complimented her out of nowhere.

Avantika narrowed her eyes. "Is that your way of greeting people now?"

He smirked. "Would you prefer something else?"

She tilting her head. "I’d prefer a normal conversation."

"That’s the problem, Mishti," he said, stepping closer. "There’s nothing normal when it comes to you and me."

Her breath hitched, but she masked it with an eye roll. "You always talk in riddles, Avyansh ji."

He chuckled, placing his hands in his pockets. "And you always pretend not to understand."

She glanced away, pretending to admire the flowers beside her. He watched her in silence for a moment before speaking again.

"You didn’t answer my question before," he said.

She frowned. "What question?"

"About the competition," he reminded her, his voice softer now. "Do you really not want to do it? Or are you just afraid?"

She tensed slightly but covered it with a shrug. "I told you, I’m not interested."

"Liar," he murmured.

Her head snapped toward him. "Excuse me?"

He took another step forward, closing the space between them. His gaze was unreadable, but there was something in his eyes—something that made her heart race.

"I know you, Avantika," he said, his voice deep and steady. "You wouldn’t have looked at that banner for so long if you didn’t care."

She swallowed, gripping the edge of her dress. "It’s not that simple—"

"It is," he interrupted, his tone holding quiet authority. "And I just made it easier for you."

She frowned. "What do you mean?"

His lips curled into a knowing smirk. "You’ll find out soon."

Before she could ask anything else, he turned on his heel and walked away, leaving her standing there, confused and flustered.

What was he up to now?

Avantika narrowed her eyes, watching Avyansh as he adjusted his cap and grabbed his sunglasses from the table.

"Where are you going?" she asked, crossing her arms.

Without looking up, he smirked. "Where are we going—you should ask that, wifey."

She scoffed. "Stop calling me that. And fine—where are we going?"

Avyansh finally looked at her, his gaze teasing. "You’ll find out when we get there."

"That’s not an answer," she huffed.

He stepped closer, leaning slightly toward her. "Trust me, Mishti," he said, his voice low and confident.

She opened her mouth to argue, but he held up a finger. "Also, wear sunscreen."

She frowned. "What? Why?"

His smirk widened. "Because I don’t want my wife getting sunburned."

Her cheeks warmed instantly. "Avyansh ji!" she warned.

He chuckled, stepping back. "Five minutes. Be ready."

And just like that, he walked out, leaving Avantika flustered and confused.

Avantika looked at herself in the mirror, frowning. Am I not already ready? she muttered under her breath.

Still, she grabbed the sunscreen, applied it quickly, and stepped outside.

The moment she opened the door, she was met with an unfamiliar face.

A tall man with distinct British-Chinese features stood before her, dressed smartly, exuding professionalism.

"Hi, ma’am," he greeted politely with a slight nod. "I am Ethan."

Avantika blinked. "Oh… hi?"

Ethan smiled lightly. "Nice to meet you. I am here solely for you and sir. Ishaan is assigned to the rest of the family."

Before she could ask any questions, he added, "I figured you’d want to know beforehand, so I thought I’d tell you."

Avantika raised an eyebrow. Solely for her and Avyansh?.

"Uh… okay." She nodded, still processing.

Ethan glanced at the bright sun overhead and then back at her.

"Ma’am, if you have a cap, I’d suggest wearing it. Or we can buy one outside if you prefer."

Avantika tilted her head.

Ethan gave her a knowing smile. "You’ll see soon enough."

Before she could ask anything else, Avyansh appeared from the side, adjusting his sunglasses.

"Ready, Mishti Doi?" he asked, his deep voice making her heart skip for some reason.

She glanced at him and then at Ethan before sighing.

"Not like I have a choice, do I?" she muttered.

Avyansh smiled. "Nope."

And with that, they headed out.

As the car moved smoothly along the coastal road, Avantika folded her arms and glanced at Avyansh. The soft hum of the engine and the sound of waves crashing nearby filled the silence between them.

"Isn't this supposed to be a family trip?" she asked, her voice laced with suspicion.

Avyansh, who had been scrolling through his phone, smiled a little without looking up. "It is."

"Then why are others?" she pressed, narrowing her eyes.

Ethan, who was driving, glanced at them through the rearview mirror but wisely stayed silent.

Avyansh finally put his phone down and turned to her. "Because we are taking a little detour before joining them."

Avantika frowned. "Detour? Where exactly?"

"You’ll see," he said nonchalantly, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of her hair behind her ear.

She swatted his hand away, glaring at him. "Stop being so mysterious, Avyansh ji. Just tell me."

He chuckled. "Patience, Miss. It’s a surprise."

She sighed dramatically. "I hate surprises."

"Lucky for me, I love giving them," he replied, his smile widening.

Ethan coughed lightly, clearly amused but staying professional.

Avantika turned towards the window, watching as they passed lush greenery, the sea glistening in the distance.

The car continued along a winding road, moving away from the main tourist areas.

Avantika’s curiosity grew with every passing minute. Dense palm trees lined the sides of the road, and in the distance, the turquoise sea stretched endlessly under the golden glow of the setting sun.

"Alright, enough suspense. Where exactly are we going?" Avantika asked, turning to Avyansh with an exasperated look.

Avyansh leaned back. "Somewhere special."

Ethan, finally spoke. "We’re heading to Velrosa Cove, ma’am. A private island retreat, owned by Mr. Raghuvanshi."

Avantika blinked in shock. "A private island?"

Avyansh gave her a lazy smile. "Of course. Did you think I’d bring you anywhere ordinary?"

The car pulled up to a secluded dock where a luxury yacht awaited them. The water shimmered under the sunlight.

Stepping out, Avantika took in the breathtaking view. Across the water, an island stood, covered in lush greenery, white sandy beaches, and a stunning glass-front villa perched on a hill, illuminated by soft golden lights.

"This… this is yours?" she asked, still processing the beauty before her.

He nodded. "One of them."

She scoffed. "Of course it is."

A few attendants welcomed them as they stepped onto the yacht. As they sailed towards Velrosa Cove, the fresh sea breeze played with her hair, and for a moment, she let herself enjoy the serenity of it all.

"So, is this part of the family trip?" she asked, glancing at him.

Avyansh smirked, moving closer. "Nope. This is just for us."

She turned to him fully. "And what about the rest of the family?"

"They'll join us later. Or not," he said with a casual shrug.

Avantika shook her head. This man and his plans.

But as she looked at the island coming closer, she had to admit—this wasn’t the worst kind of surprise.

Avantika crossed her arms, leaning back slightly in her seat. “Ab?” she asked, her tone carrying a mix of boredom and irritation.

Her nose scrunched up slightly—a clear sign that she wasn’t enjoying herself as much without their family.

Avyansh glanced at her. “Aap bore ho rahi hain?”

She shot him a look. “Akele bore nahi toh kya honge hum?”

He chuckled, shaking his head.

A short silence followed before she turned to him again. “Can't we come back and look at all this later with everyone?”

Avyansh’s smile softened. She was missing her family.

The same girl who had once struggled to call them her own was now hesitant to enjoy something without them.

His heart swelled with warmth. Finally.

She was letting herself be loved. Accepting the home she had always deserved.

He nodded. “Okay.”

Then, turning slightly, he called out, “Ethan.”

Ethan, who had been quietly observing, immediately responded, “Yes, Sir?”

Avyansh gestured toward him. “Tell us some must-visit places here.”

Ethan nodded and began listing, his British-Chinese accent smooth and professional:

Radhanagar Beach – One of the best beaches in Asia, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Elephant Beach – Known for its vibrant coral reefs and clear waters.

Chidiya Tapu – A beautiful sunset point with stunning coastal views.

Limestone Caves – A fascinating natural wonder, perfect for exploring.

Baratang Island – Known for its mangrove creeks and mud volcanoes.

Neil Island – A peaceful escape with pristine beaches.

Water sports options like jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are also popular—

“I’m not doing any water sports without my family.” Avantika cut in, turning toward Avyansh.

He nodded without hesitation. “Okay.”

Ethan smiled politely. “Understood, ma’am.”

Avantika hesitated for a moment before asking, “Historic sites?”

Ethan raised an eyebrow. “Oh yes. They exist, but most tourists don’t prioritize them, so I didn’t mention them first.”

Avantika hummed, considering. Meanwhile, Avyansh simply watched her, quietly savoring the details of her expressions.

She was trying. She was healing.

And he would make sure that process never stopped.

The sun was bright but not harsh as Avantika, Avyansh, and Ethan strolled through the historic sites of Andaman.

The ocean breeze carried the scent of salt and earth, making the morning pleasant.

Ethan, ever the professional, led the way, his voice smooth and informative.

"This is the Cellular Jail, once used by the British to exile Indian freedom fighters. Many were imprisoned here under harsh conditions."

Avantika’s eyes traced the towering structure, her fingers unconsciously brushing against the cool iron bars of an old cell. "Hmm," she murmured, taking in the eerie silence.

Ethan continued, "It’s one of the darkest chapters in India’s struggle for independence. Solitary confinement was common, and prisoners were subjected to inhumane treatment."

She exhaled quietly. "Must’ve been terrifying."

Avyansh, walking a step behind, stifled a yawn. History never interested him. What did, however, was the way Avantika was fully absorbed in Ethan’s words.

They moved toward Ross Island. Ethan gestured ahead. "This used to be the British administrative headquarters. It had bungalows, a church, and a marketplace. But after an earthquake, nature took over."

Avantika observed the ruins, now intertwined with giant tree roots. "Looks peaceful now."

Ethan smiled. "Yes, it’s a stark contrast from its colonial past."

As they walked further, Ethan pointed toward another island visible in the distance. "That’s Viper Island. The British built a gallows there, and many prisoners were executed."

Avantika’s expression remained unreadable, but she whispered, "Dark history."

Avyansh sighed dramatically. He had been silently following, his hands in his pockets.

But now, with zero interest in old ruins, he reached for the hem of Avantika’s dress and held onto it lazily.

Avantika, engrossed in the conversation, didn’t notice.

Ethan continued, "Most visitors prefer beaches and water sports, so these sites don’t get as much attention."

Avantika nodded. "They should."

Avyansh tugged her dress slightly, hoping for a reaction. Nothing.

He smirked and did it again.

Still nothing.

She remained focused on Ethan’s words, unaware that her dress was now subtly clenched in Avyansh’s fingers.

Avyansh bit back a chuckle. If she wasn’t going to give him attention, he’d find ways to get it.

Avantika stood still, her gaze fixed on the remnants of an old British bungalow.

The once-grand structure was now a skeleton of its past—crumbling walls covered in creeping vines, shattered windows allowing the sun to spill through like golden threads, and the faint echoes of history lingering in the air.

She traced her fingers lightly over the rough stone, feeling the weight of time in her touch. The silence around her was almost eerie, but she found it oddly peaceful.

Meanwhile, Avyansh had his eyes on Ethan, who was still standing nearby. Their gazes met, and with just a subtle lift of his chin, Avyansh silently ordered him to leave.

Ethan, ever the observant one, immediately understood. "Excuse me, Mam, I need to take a call," he said politely before stepping away without another word.

Avantika barely registered his departure, too engrossed in the quiet solitude of the place. The lack of tourists made the atmosphere even more intimate—just the whisper of the wind, the occasional rustle of leaves, and the distant crash of waves against the shore.

Avyansh, however, had other things in mind.

He stepped closer to her, hands tucked casually in his pockets, watching as she lost herself in thought.

“That’s it,” Avyansh muttered under his breath before grabbing Avantika’s wrist and pulling her toward him in one swift motion.

Her gasp barely left her lips before she found herself pressed against his chest, his firm grip on her waist sending a jolt of awareness through her.

“We didn’t come here so you could admire these walls,” he murmured, his voice low and teasing, his warm breath fanning against her temple.

Avantika’s breath hitched, her hands instinctively pressing against his chest as if to create some distance—though neither of them truly wanted that.

“S-Someone will come,” she managed to say, her eyes darting around the empty corridor of the abandoned historic site.

“No one will come,” he replied smoothly, tilting his head slightly, his lips now dangerously close to her ear.

She swallowed hard, her heartbeat erratic. “K-Kya kar rahe hain aap? Ethan—”

“He’s not here.” His deep voice cut through her hesitation.

Her lips parted slightly, her mind racing for an escape—an argument, anything—but his grip on her waist tightened, his eyes dark and unreadable.

“Now tell me,” he whispered, his thumb brushing lightly over the fabric of her dress, “what should I do with you?”

Avantika sucked in a sharp breath.

“Aap bhi akele…” he trailed off, his lips barely an inch from hers, “aur hum bhi.”

The words hung between them, thick with tension. The silence of the place, the slow hum of the wind, and the distant crash of waves only amplified the moment.

Avantika turned her face slightly, her pulse hammering. “Avyansh ji…” she whispered.

He hummed in response, waiting.

Her fingers curled against his shirt, clutching the fabric, as if holding onto the last thread of her self-control. “You… You are impossible,” she muttered, her cheeks burning.

Avyansh smirked, tilting her chin up so their eyes met. “And yet, you can’t look away.”

Her lashes fluttered, betraying her.

Just as Avyansh leaned in, his lips barely an inch from Avantika’s flushed skin, his phone buzzed loudly in his pocket.

He exhaled sharply, his forehead dropping against hers for a second in frustration before he pulled back, fishing out his phone.

Maa

His brows furrowed, but as soon as he picked up, it wasn’t Pakhi’s voice he heard.

“Bhai!” Dev’s dramatic voice rang through the speaker, making Avyansh pinch the bridge of his nose.

“How could you leave us like that? Bhabhi ke saath akele chale gaye?” Dev whined, sounding thoroughly betrayed.

From the background, Ruhaan’s voice chimed in, “Shaadi hote he Bhai ko bhul gya saale!”

Avyansh sighed, rubbing his temple. “Dev!?”

“We have plans to go for water sports. Bring her here soon. Ba bye!” Dev said quickly before hanging up.

A burst of laughter was heard from the other side before the call disconnected.

Avyansh groaned, slipping his phone back into his pocket. “Unbelievable.”

Avantika, who had been struggling to keep a straight face.

“I told you someone would come.”

He turned to her, his expression flat. “Someone didn’t come. Dev happened.”

She bit her lip to hold back a laugh. “Well… Dev is someone.”

Avyansh sighed dramatically before stepping back, offering her his hand. “Let’s go before they decide to send a rescue team for you.”

She shook her head, but took his hand anyway, her heart still racing from the moment that had just slipped away.

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Thanks for Reading

Do vote and follow me!

Only a few people missed me… Slightly heartbroken by you all.

But to those who did—thank you, ladies! You all have my respect.

I was super busy..first editing Bol, then Husn, then His Shayari, Her Sparks. Then came editing reels (adding filters, text, you know the drill), handling Insta, stck.me..…

Honestly, just editing chapters drained me. God knows how Ayu does it.

And yeah, sorry for the late update—I was kinda busy.

And about your author.. She’s doing fine now. Well, a little fine actually. Met her today, treated her with some food… and that’s it.

Bye.