Avantika's POV

I rested my head on the desk, trying to ignore the lingering fever from yesterday. Everyone insisted I should stay home today, but I didn't want to. After a little pleading, Maa gave in, though Dadi ji scolded me all through breakfast. Even Papa and Chote Papa had told me to rest, but I couldn't.

He had left early this morning. Last night, he asked me what I wanted for dinner, but then he didn't even come to eat with me. The maid brought my food, and Devika ji joined me, but his absence left me wondering-was he angry, or was I overthinking?

Why am I even thinking about this? I shouldn't. I scolded myself mentally, shaking the thoughts away.

The classroom was filling up, but the professor hadn't arrived yet. My classmates' chatter felt like a distant hum, their voices blending into background noise. I sighed quietly, closing my eyes for a brief moment, hoping to steal a few seconds of peace.

But peace was hard to come by these days. Everything felt heavy-my thoughts, emotions, even being in this classroom. It was all just... too much.

Suddenly, the murmurs grew louder. Ugh. No, please don't tell me it's Dev ji causing trouble again. This time, I won't step in to save him from Avyansh ji.

I didn't lift my head to check. I didn't have the energy, and honestly, I didn't care.

A throat cleared beside me. "Mind if I sit here?" a voice asked. I ignored it, pretending not to hear. I wasn't in the mood to deal with anyone.

"Good morning, sir," everyone greeted the professor. I stood up mechanically, following the routine.

When I glanced to my side, I froze. Then, just as quickly, I looked back down, sitting again. A sharp pain shot through my lower stomach and back, making me wince. The discomfort was growing by the minute.

After what felt like an eternity of classes, the pain had intensified. I just need to get home, take my medicine, and sleep. I kept repeating it to myself, a mantra to hold me together.

As students began filing out of the classroom, the guy beside me asked, "Avantika, do you mind sharing your notes?" His voice was deep, slightly startling me.

"Ask someone else," I muttered, already standing and walking toward the door. I couldn't stop to chat, not now.

"Stop," he said firmly.

I paused, turning to look at him, then turned away, continuing toward the exit.

Author's POV

Akshat silently watched as Avantika walked out. Without saying anything, he followed her, his strides almost shielding her small frame from behind. As they reached the empty corridor, Avantika abruptly stopped and spun around, her annoyance evident.

"If you have something to say, just say it. Stop following me around like a creep, Akshat," she snapped.

A small smile tugged at Akshat's lips. "So, you do remember me," he teased lightly, "you just chose to ignore me."

Without waiting for her reply, he unbuttoned the shirt he wore over his t-shirt-the one people usually leave undone for style-and handed it to her. "Here, wrap this around yourself."

"Huh?" Avantika's brows furrowed as she looked from the shirt to his face, confused.

"You got your period, Miss Pepper," he said, using the nickname he had given her long ago, his voice soft yet teasing.

Her eyes narrowed, her icy demeanor snapping back in place. Miss Pepper. She had worked hard to put distance between them, and now here he was, using that ridiculous name. She glanced down at her blue kurti and white pants, realization hitting her hard. A faint stain had appeared without her noticing, and embarrassment flooded her.

Her first instinct was to flee, to ignore the situation, but Akshat wasn't giving her the chance.

"Just take it," he insisted gently, holding the shirt out again. "I'm not trying to bother you. I just don't want you walking around like that."

Avantika stared at him, her pride warring with the practicality of his offer. She hated accepting help, especially from him, but she couldn't walk around with a stain visible to everyone.

"Fine," she muttered, yanking the shirt from his hands and wrapping it around her waist. She tied it tightly, refusing to acknowledge the awkwardness between them.

"Thanks," she added tersely, without any warmth, already walking away before he could say anything more.

Akshat smiled to himself, shaking his head as he watched her go. "Same old Avantika," he whispered, following at a distance, his gaze never leaving her-just like before.

Avantika's POV

As I stepped out of the college, still feeling the lingering cramps, I noticed Dev walking toward me.

"Bhabhi!" he called out, catching my attention just as Akshat disappeared down another hallway, leaving me alone.

Dev's eyes immediately landed on the shirt I had draped over my shoulder. "Did you get your periods, bhabhi? Or is that some new fashion statement?" he teased, a playful grin lighting up his face.

My eyes widened slightly at his straightforwardness, feeling a wave of embarrassment and surprise. "Periods," I replied, trying to keep my tone casual, though I could feel my cheeks warming up.

Time Skip

"Stop here," Dev ji said to the driver as we pulled up to a departmental store.

The car came to a halt, and Dev ji turned to me with his usual enthusiasm. "Bhabhi, hum bas abhi aate hain. Five minutes, tops!" he said, jumping out before I could respond.

After a few minutes, he returned, his arms full with two bags and a triumphant look on his face. "Bhabhi, for you!" he said, holding them out like a proud kid showing off his work.

I opened the bags, my eyes widening at the sight inside. One bag was filled with chocolates, chocolate pastries, a box of strawberries, and chewing gum. I couldn't help but smile, feeling touched by his thoughtfulness.

"Thank you, Dev ji ," I said softly, feeling a bit awkward but genuinely moved by the gesture.

He rubbed the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Actually, I used to get these for Devika sometimes too-she'd always demand sweets during her time," he said, laughing a bit nervously. "So, I figured... why not?"

I chuckled and again said Thanku appreciating his effort. Dev ji always had a way of making these moments feel lighter.

He shrugged, flashing me a playful look. "Anytime, bhabhijaan."

As I continued to rummage through the bag, my heart warmed with gratitude, reminded of the kindness that surrounded me even on days like this.

As I stepped into the living room, my body was barely holding up under the weight of the cramps, and the fever from earlier seemed to be returning.

I had just changed into an oversized black kurti and palazzo, hoping for some comfort. My plan was to grab something quick to eat and head straight to bed.

Just as I reached the bottom of the stairs, I heard the front door burst open. Devika ji had just returned from college, her energy filling the entire space.

"Bhabhiiii!" she yelled excitedly, running toward me with her arms outstretched.

Before I could brace myself, she enveloped me in a tight hug, her small frame somehow managing to squeeze the air out of me.

"Devika ji, I-I can't breathe," I gasped, feeling my ribs protesting from the pressure.

She instantly pulled back, looking mortified. "Oh my God, I'm so sorry, bhabhi! I didn't realize," she said, her tone filled with guilt as she gave me a sheepish grin.

I managed a weak smile, still catching my breath. "It's okay," I said softly, my voice carrying a hint of exhaustion.

Devika, ever the vibrant spirit, immediately shifted from guilt to excitement, her eyes sparkling. "You look amazing in that kurti, by the way!" she said, trying to lighten the mood.

I smiled a little shaking my head. "Thank you, Devika ji," I replied, though my energy was fading fast.

She noticed, her playful demeanor fading slightly. "Bhabhi, are you okay? You look a bit pale."

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, just a little tired. I think the fever is back."

Her brows furrowed in concern. "You should rest. I'll make you something to eat and bring it up."

"Thanks, but I can manage," I said, though the thought of someone taking care of me for once sounded nice.

"Bhabhi, no arguments," she said, her voice firm but playful. "I'll be right up with something to eat, okay?"

As I settled on the sofa, still feeling the exhaustion from earlier, I absentmindedly said, " But you don't even know how to make soup."

The moment the words left my mouth, I bit my tongue, realizing what I had just blurted out. My eyes widened in panic, and I quickly glanced at her.

She had stopped in her tracks, slowly turning to look at me, her expression incredulous.

Before she could react, Dev ji burst out from the kitchen, a packet of chips in his hand, his face lit up with excitement. "Bilkul sahi! Ikdum spot-on baat kahi aapne, bhabhi!" he said, laughing loudly as he pointed at her.

"Excuse me?" She said, hands flying to her hips, her eyes narrowing as she glared at both of us.

Before she could retaliate, her eyes caught sight of the packet in his hands. "Hey, that's mine!" she yelled, rushing toward him.

Dev ji waved the chips in the air, smugly munching on one. "Haa toh hum kha rahe hain, dikhta nahin kya?" he replied, grinning mischievously.

Her eyes flared. "Toh tu apna khana, mera chips kyun kha raha hai!" she retorted, hands on her hips, her voice rising in mock indignation.

I couldn't help but smile as I watched the two of them bicker. Their back-and-forth was always so full of life, and for a brief moment, the tension in my body eased.

I leaned back on the sofa, feeling the soft cushions cradle me, and let out a deep sigh. Watching them go back and forth was strangely comforting, a reminder that amidst all the chaos in my head, there were still moments of normalcy, of family.

Their banter continued, filling the room with warmth and familiarity.

A soft smile tugged at my lips as I watched them argue, a familiar warmth spreading through me. It reminded me of Samarth and the countless times we had our own little banter.

Samarth always had that knack for pushing my buttons, making sarcastic comments that I couldn't help but respond to. We'd go back and forth for hours, teasing each other, but it was never mean-spirited. It was our way of connecting, of breaking down the walls that life often forced us to build.

I remember the way he'd raise his eyebrow at me, that sly smirk playing on his lips as he threw out some smart remark. I'd roll my eyes, but inside, I secretly loved it-loved the way he could make me laugh even on my worst days, how he'd challenge me without pushing me too far.

The memory made my chest tighten, a mix of fondness and an ache that came from knowing things had changed. But right now, watching Dev and Devika, I allowed myself to lean into the nostalgia, letting the good memories of Samarth wrap around me like a warm blanket.

Author's POV

"Bass!!" A voice boomed across the room, startling everyone.

It was Maanyata.

"Jab dekho tab chuha billi ki tarah jhagda karte rehte ho tum dono!" she scolded, her hands resting firmly on her hips as she glared at Dev and Devika.

Both of them immediately quieted down, their bickering cut short under the weight of Maanyata's stern gaze.

Dev shoved another chip into his mouth, while Devika crossed her arms and huffed.

Maanyata's eyes then moved to Avantika, who sat silently on the sofa, looking a little lost in thought, the traces of her earlier smile fading away.

"Aree meri bachi, tumhe kya hua? Tum kyun aise gum sum baithe ho?" she asked, concern evident in her voice.

"Bhabhi ko periods aaye hain, Old dadi maa," Dev chimed in, unable to resist the urge to tease.

"Fever too, Old Dadi," Devika added quickly, trying to back up Dev's comment.

Maanyata shot a glare at them for calling her old. "Buddhi hogi tum dono ki maa!" she retorted, but the corners of her mouth twitched, betraying a hint of amusement.

Avantika watched the playful banter, her heart warming slightly at the familial love surrounding her. However, she also felt the heaviness of her discomfort and fatigue.

"Go upstairs and lie down for a bit," Maanyata finally said gently, her tone softening as she noticed the fatigue etched on Avantika's face.

As Avantika stood up to leave, Maanyata turned her attention back to the sibling duo. "Aur tum dono," she said sharply, "Chup chap madad karo, warna tumhara snacks bhi chheen lunga!"

Dev and Devika exchanged looks, their playfulness dimmed under their mother's authoritative tone, but a small smile tugged at Avantika's lips as she made her way to her room, grateful for the brief moment of peace.

Avantika was about to pass by Pakhi's room when the door swung open.

"Avantika beta, tum aagye?" Pakhi asked sweetly, her voice filled with warmth.

"Ji," Avantika replied softly, feeling a flicker of comfort at her tone.

"Kya hua beta?" Pakhi inquired, gently touching her forehead, her concern evident.

"Fever is coming again. You should rest," she continued, her eyes scanning Avantika's face for any signs of discomfort.

Pakhi leaned in closer. "Is your body painting too?" she asked, her tone turning more serious as she studied Avantika's expressions.

Avantika tried to shake her head, wanting to downplay her discomfort. However, the sharp glare from Pakhi made her nod in reluctant agreement.

"Aao, chalo mere room mai," Pakhi said, her voice softening as she reached out and gently pulled Avantika into her room.

As they stepped inside, Avantika felt a sense of safety enveloping her. The familiar scent of Pakhi's favorite lavender incense filled the air, and the cozy decor made the space feel inviting.

Pakhi moved around the room with a nurturing grace, her energy radiating warmth. She called out to one of the maids, "Rani! Can you please bring me some hot massaging oil?"

"Yes, Ma'am!" Rani replied, scurrying off to fetch it.

Avantika sat on the edge of the bed, her legs tucked beneath her, trying to ignore the discomfort pulsing through her body. When Rani returned with the small bowl of steaming oil, Pakhi smiled, her eyes sparkling with kindness.

"Come here, Avantika," she said softly, gesturing for her to lie down.

Avantika hesitated, shaking her head. "Nahi, Mummy. Rehne dijiye. I'm fine," she insisted, though the weariness in her voice betrayed her discomfort.

"Aree, chup rho tum," Pakhi chided gently, her tone playful yet firm. "You need this. It will help ease your cramps."

Avantika sighed, knowing resistance was futile. She shifted onto the bed, feeling the soft mattress cradle her. Pakhi poured a bit of oil into her palms, rubbing them together to warm it before gently kneading Avantika's legs.

As Pakhi's hands worked magic on her sore muscles, Avantika's mind began to wander. Thoughts of her own family crept in-memories of silent dinners, her mother's disinterest, and the countless moments she felt invisible.

Her mother had never glanced her way when she was in pain, not just during her periods but every day. It had always been as if she didn't exist at all. A wave of sorrow washed over her as she thought of how alone she had often felt, even in a crowded room.

A lone tear escaped her eye, trailing down her cheek. She quickly wiped it away, not wanting Pakhi to notice her vulnerability. But the tenderness of Pakhi's touch was disarming, and for a fleeting moment, she let herself believe that perhaps she could have the kind of love and care she had always yearned for.

"See? Doesn't this feel nice?" Pakhi said, breaking Avantika's reverie.

Avantika nodded, biting her lip to hold back more tears. "It does," she admitted softly, the warmth of the oil and the gentle pressure soothing her aching legs.

Pakhi smiled, her expression full of compassion. "Good. Just relax, beta. You deserve this."

As Pakhi continued her gentle massage, Avantika closed her eyes, letting the comforting sensations wash over her. In this small act of kindness, she felt a glimmer of hope-a reminder that not all families were the same, that she could find love and care in unexpected places.

In the depths of her heart, she realized that she wasn't entirely alone anymore.

Timeskip

Avyansh entered the house with Vijay and Ajay, the usual hum of family life greeting them. The maid quickly took their bags as Vijay and Ajay headed upstairs, chatting as they went.

Pakhi , coming down the stairs, stopped briefly to say something to Vijay, who nodded before continuing up with Ajay.

Avyansh glanced around the house, expecting to spot Avantika, but she wasn't anywhere in sight.

He saw Devika nearby, busy talking on the phone, while Dev lounged on the sofa, eating something, eyes glued to the TV as usual.

"Maybe she's in the room," Avyansh thought, and with that, he headed upstairs. Reaching their room, he found it empty. He checked the bathroom just to be sure, but she wasn't there either.

With a sigh, he changed out of his work clothes and into something more comfortable. Phone in hand, he headed back downstairs, still wondering where she could be.

As he passed by the kitchen, he peeked inside to find Anjali working on dinner with a couple of maids. He quickly moved away before she could catch sight of him and start teasing.

He walked back to the living room where Dev was lounging, still munching on snacks.

"Dev," Avyansh called, sounding casual but a bit impatient.

Dev barely glanced away from the TV, still chewing. "Haan bhai?"

"Where is she?"

Dev looked at him, pretending to be confused. "Who?"

"Bhabhi," Avyansh clarified, growing slightly irritated.

Dev smirked, clearly enjoying the moment. "Aapki bhabhi? Kon hai wo?" he teased, dragging out the game.

Avyansh shot him a look, exasperated. "Teri bhabhi," he said, more firmly this time.

Dev finally let out a small laugh, "Oh, meri bhabhi... last I saw, she was headed upstairs, maybe resting." He grinned, clearly finding amusement in Avyansh's growing impatience.

Pakhi, who had been heading to the kitchen, stopped when she heard Avyansh call out, "Mumma?"

"Ha?" she turned around, curiosity on her face.

"Wo- wo.." he began, fumbling with his words.

"Kya wo wo kar rahe ho, Avy? Ache se bolo," she teased, her smile growing. She already knew what he was getting at but enjoyed watching him struggle.

Before Avyansh could muster a reply, Anjali entered the room with a playful grin. "Aree, Bhabhi!" she said, interrupting. "He's looking for her," Anjali announced, clearly amused by the whole scene.

Avyansh, a bit flustered, finally asked, "Um...where is she?"

Pakhi tilted her head slightly and said with a straight face, "She's gone to her home."

"Huh? Kab? She didn't even tell me," Avyansh stammered, confusion quickly spreading across his face. "I mean..."

Anjali couldn't resist and burst out laughing. "She's just messing with you, beta" she teased.

Pakhi let out a soft laugh too, and before Avyansh could say anything else, Manyata , who had been standing nearby, chimed in with a grin.

"She's upstairs, beta, resting in Pakhi's room," she said, smiling knowingly at her grand son's concern.

Avyansh let out a small sigh of relief, but his family's teasing smiles didn't make things any easier for him.

□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□

Thanks for Reading

Vote and Comment

What do you guys think who is Akshat? Villain? Or someone else...?

Comment now.