सिर्फ कह जाऊं हां
आसमान पे लिख दूं तेरी तारीफों में चश्मे बद्दूर...
बन के तितली दिल उड़ा-उड़ा-उड़ा है कहीं दूर...
चल के खुशबू से जुदा जुदा जुदा है कहीं दूर...

✷

Vihaan Pov

As I sat in my seat, I could feel the tension radiating off her, who was sitting right next to me, her face contorted with a frown.

She hadn't said a word to me since we boarded the plane.

On her other side, Shristi her bestfriend I think kept nudging her, trying to make conversation, but she was only giving curt replies, barely acknowledging her.

Beside Shristi was Krish, who had arranged the business class tickets, and I had a sneaking suspicion he had deliberately fixed the seating arrangement this way.

I texted Krish, hoping he could get some answers from Shristi about what was going on with Ayesha.

Me: , Ask Shristi why she looks so mad?

Krish glanced at me, made a annoyed face, and then typed something into his phone. A moment later, my phone buzzed with his reply.

Krish: No I'm not gonna asked her🙂‍↔️

I wondered if she was on her period. I tried to break the silence between us, but before I could say anything meaningful, she shot me a look that could kill and snapped.

Kanak wasn't even here, so why was she so angry with me? Then it hit me - could it be because of the incident at the shopping mall?

Taking a deep breath, I turned to her and said, "Sun-"

She looked at me, her eyes still filled with annoyance. "What?"

"W-Wo... I-I'm sorry for the shopping incident," I stammered.

She didn't say anything in response, just turned back to her iPad and started typing furiously.

The silence was deafening, and the distance between us felt like a chasm despite being so physically close.

I could see the faint reflection of the screen in her glasses, but her thoughts were a mystery to me, locked away behind that cold exterior.

I glanced at Krish, who shrugged helplessly. Shristi leaned over and whispered something to her, who only nodded slightly in response.

I sighed and leaned back in my seat, wondering how I was going to survive this flight with her being so mad at me.

As time passed, we landed at our destination: Rajasthan. Dad had already arranged for a car to pick us up.

The entire ride was silent, with no one speaking except for Shristi, who occasionally whispered something to her. The tension in the air was palpable, making the journey feel longer than it actually was.

When we finally reached our destination, Shristi was the first to get out, followed closely by Krish. As soon as she stepped out of the car, I quickly followed her and gently grabbed her wrist.

"Here," I said, handing her phone back to her. She took it without a word.

"Aap mujhse naraz hai?" I asked, my voice filled with concern.

She shook her head. "Nhi..waise bhi Mai kon hoti hun apse naraz hone wali?," she replied,  before turning away and leaving.

Her words echoed in my mind. How could I make it up to her? She was right-she had no reason to be angry with me, but the fact that she felt like she didn't matter to me stung deeply. As I watched her walk away.

Vihaan Pov Ended

Time skip

Author Pov

The dining hall buzzed with excitement as everyone gathered to discuss the upcoming Haldi Rasam, which would take place in two days.

Tradition dictated that the bride and groom couldn't meet each other before the ceremony, leading to a playful exchange of teasing and laughter.

Ayesha sat quietly, occasionally smiling at the banter around her while chatting with someone on her phone.

Rutvendra, Virendra and Dhirendra shared stories from their own wedding days, while Suman,Parul, and Mamta and many more relatives , added their own playful jabs.

The bride's cousin and Groom's cousin, were engaged in a lively discussion about the Haldi preparations.

Vihaan, sitting across from Ayesha, couldn't help but steal glances at her, his mind preoccupied. His distraction didn't go unnoticed.

"Vihaan, where are you lost, beta?" Rajvati, the bride's grandmother, called out, pulling him back to reality.

"Nothing, Dadi. Just thinking about a few things," he replied, forcing a smile.

Shristi, sitting next to Ayesha, leaned over and whispered, "Tu kyun unhe pareshan kar rahi hai? Bechare ne sorry bhi bol diya."

"Maine kaha kuch kiya? Wo khud pareshan ho rahe hain," Ayesha replied, shrugging her shoulders and focusing on her food.

After dinner, everyone started to head back to their rooms, but the younger group gathered in the garden area to discuss their performances for the upcoming Sangeet.

"Look, Bhai, no matter what, our side's performance will be the best," Akul declared confidently.

"Oops, sorry Akul, but no, the best will be from our side," Nimrit, Manisha's cousin, retorted playfully.

"Songs?" Anshu asked.

"Jo bhi aap chaho," Darsh replied.

"Chup karo tum," Anshu said, rolling her eyes, making everyone giggle.

"Ayesha di, aap batao na," Duggu said, turning to Ayesha for her opinion.

"Dono side alag alag kar rahe hain toh secretly bataungi," Ayesha replied with a sly smile.

"Ayesha di, aisa thodi hota hai," Nimrit protested.

"Humare yaha aisa hi hota hai," Ayesha said, scrunching her face in mock seriousness, making everyone laugh.

Next day

In the midst of the bustling preparations for the wedding, everyone was engrossed in their tasks. Some were busy with the decoration arrangements, making sure every flower was in place and every light was perfectly hung.

Others were deep in planning, ensuring that every detail of the ceremonies was covered. The older relatives sat together, reminiscing and discussing the days to come.

Amidst this flurry of activity, Ayesha wandered around, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of the Sangeet performance. Her cousins, always eager to be involved, trailed behind her.

"Didi, aap kya soch rhe ho?" asked Priti, one of Ayesha's younger cousins, curiosity evident in her voice.

Ayesha, suddenly struck with an idea, spun around and clapped her hands to grab everyone's attention. "Suno, suno!" she exclaimed, her excitement infectious. "I have a plan, dekho!"

Duggu, always ready with a cheeky remark, piped up, "Kisko dekhe, Didi?"

Ayesha sighed, a mix of exasperation and affection in her expression. "Arre, Burbak! Sun meri baat. Mai ye kehna chahti hu..."

The crowd of cousins fell silent, eagerly awaiting her next words. Ayesha took a deep breath, her enthusiasm bubbling over. "We have to start practicing our dance soon and-"

Before Ayesha could finish, her words were interrupted by her mother calling out to her. Rushing over, Ayesha asked what her mother needed.

Standing beside Suman, her mother handed Ayesha a list of items she needed and instructed her to go buy them. Ayesha nodded in understanding.

Just then Vihaan came and said "Maa, I'm going out. I have a few errands. I'll be back in a few minutes."

Suman suggested, "Vihaan beta, Ayesha ko bhi saath le jao. Usse bhi kuch kharidna hai. Tum dono saath mein hi chale jao."

Vihaan agreed, "Chaliye."

As they stepped outside, Ayesha assumed they would take the bike, but Vihaan suggested taking the car since they needed to buy some items.

Ayesha headed towards the back door to get in, but Vihaan stopped her, "Main aapka driver hu?"

"Nahi," Ayesha replied.
"Toh aap piche kyu baith rhe hai, aage baithiye," Vihaan gestured towards the front seat.

As they settled in the car, the gentle hum of the engine accompanied their journey to the market. Ayesha's anticipation palpable, she was ready to immerse herself in the joy of shopping.

"Kya kharidna hai apko?" Vihaan inquired as they parked.

"Kapde aur kuch gifts," Ayesha replied with a smile, her eyes already scanning the bustling streets ahead.

Vihaan watched her as she walked ahead, her dupatta trailing behind her like a gentle stream. With a tender gesture, he caught the end of her dupatta, wrapping it around his fingers, and followed her closely.

"Let's go to this shop," Ayesha suggested excitedly, leading the way.

In a shop adorned with vibrant fabrics and intricate designs, they were greeted warmly by the shopkeeper in a Rajasthani accent. Ayesha wasted no time in asking to see some dresses, her eyes twinkling with anticipation.

Amidst the colorful array of fabrics, Vihaan couldn't help but admire Ayesha's grace and beauty as she carefully examined each dress. His gaze lingered on her, his heart filled with a warmth he couldn't explain.

As they moved from one shop to another,  Ayesha, lost in the sea of choices, stepped outside for a moment, only to realize Vihaan was not beside her.

"Vihaan jii? Kaha gye yai ab?" she called out, a hint of concern in her voice.

Her worries vanished as she spotted him at an earrings shop. "Aap yaha kya kr rhe hai?" she asked curiously.

"Wo- wo, Manisha and Shruti ke liye kuch le rha tha," Vihaan explained, referring to his sister.

Ayesha's heart fluttered as Vihaan showed her a pair of earrings, their eyes meeting in a moment of shared understanding. "Oh, Yai kaisa hai?" she asked, holding up one of the earrings.

"Acha hai," Vihaan replied, a shy smile playing on his lips.

"Chhore apni binri ko yai jhumke pehna," the shopkeeper chimed in, adding an unexpected twist to the moment.

Before Ayesha could respond, her phone buzzed, and she stepped aside to take the call. The shopkeeper handed Vihaan the packed jhumkas for Manisha and Shruti.

Vihaan glanced at Ayesha to ensure she wasn't looking and then pointed to a pair of maroon jhumkas. "Uncle, yeh earrings bhi de dijiye," he said.

The shopkeeper packed the jhumkas and handed them to Vihaan just as Ayesha returned. "Chale?" she asked.

"Apko kuch nahi kharidna?" Vihaan inquired.

"Nahi," Ayesha replied, but her eyes lingered on the jhumkas Vihaan had purchased.

Next, they went to a bangle shop. "Yai kaise hai?" Ayesha asked, showing a set of green bangles. "Sangeet ke liye sahi rahega na?"

Vihaan looked at her and nodded, appreciating her taste. She then bought more bangles as gifts. "Yeh dekhiye," Vihaan said, handing her a set of maroon bangles.

Ayesha took the bangles from him, their fingers brushing briefly. She glanced up at him, her eyes softening. "Thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Vihaan smiled, feeling a sense of contentment. "Chaliye, aur kya dekhna hai?" he asked, eager to spend more time with her.

As they continued their shopping, the bustling market seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, lost in their own world.

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1743 Words

I'm not sure if the chapter is good or not, but I tried my best to write it in simple English so it's easy for you all to understand.

Thanku Bye Bye

इश्क़ जैसे है एक आँधी, इश्क़ है एक तूफ़ाँ
इश्क़ के आगे बेबस है, दुनिया में हर इंसाँ
इश्क़ में सब दीवाने हैं, इश्क़ में सब हैराँ
इश्क़ में सबकुछ मुश्किल है, इश्क़ में सब आसाँ

✷

Vihaan POV :

We were all about to leave when suddenly Parul aunty asked.

"Where is Ayesha?" Dhirendra uncle, who was standing beside me and Darsh, replied.

"She was getting ready when we were coming downstairs, she will be here soon." Parul Aunty sighed,

"This girl will make everyone late. Anyways, whenever she comes, tell her to meet me," and then she looked at me, patting my cheeks with a smile on her face before leaving.

My cheeks suddenly felt hot, flushed with embarrassment and confusion.

"Why does she give you special treatment?" Darsh asked me.

I just shrugged, feeling equally puzzled.

"Here you are, Ayesha Di! Bhua is calling you!" Anshu said, pointing in a direction. I turned to look and felt my breath catch as I was mesmerized by her beauty.

As Ayesha descended the staircase in her vibrant yellow saree, my eyes were immediately drawn to her.

Every detail of her face seemed to glow under the soft light, from the subtle shimmer of her lipstick to the delicate touch of her light makeup, enhancing her natural beauty.

Her slim waist was accentuated by the graceful drape of the saree, a sight so captivating that it left me momentarily breathless.

In that fleeting moment, our eyes met for just a second, and I felt a rush of warmth surge through me.

But then, she quickly averted her gaze, her attention shifting to her brother Duggu as they left together.

Amidst the bustling crowd gathering outside, no one seemed to notice the silent admiration I harbored for her, each detail etched in my memory like a masterpiece of fleeting beauty.

With a reluctant sigh, I tore my gaze away from Ayesha, knowing that she would never see me the way I saw her.

Vihaan POV Ended

Author Pov

"Where do I have to keep this extra Bowl of Haldi?" Ayesha asked Rajvati.

"Beta keep it on the left side of the table inside, we will take it when we will need it or here in the garden there is a chance of haldi falling down!"

"Arey Ayesha  You are so grown up. Shaadi vaadi ka kheyal hai bhi ya nhi?" One of the ladies asked her.

Ayesha rolled her eyes. internally because she was the same lady who has been annoying her mother to fix her alliance with her son.

"Of course Aunty! I am ready, actually, I am Maanglik so... But I know you don't believe in such superstitions, I can marry your son right!?"

Ayesha replied with an evil smile making that lady shocked. "Wh-What? Maan-Maanglik!" The lady gulped hard.

"You wanted me as your daughter-in-law na aunty".

"A-Be-beta Act-actually my son already likes someone or else I would have" that lady made an excuse laughing nervously.

"Uffoo, I thought we had a chance, it's ok" Ayesha gave her a tight lip smile and turned to leave.

After some steps, She stopped at the entrance of the living room finding a person standing infront of her.

"Arey, tum vapas kyu aayi?" Ayesha  asked when she found Kanak standing before her.

"You will not tell me if I should come or not" Kanak replied .

"And I am respectfully invited here" Kanak said while  rolling her eyes and folded her hands.

"Respectfully? Everyone here is invited respectfully what's new? Don't people respect you usually?" Ayesha  asked innocently.

"Stop with your lame talks okay! I am not Interested in talking with you!" She glared at her.

"Then Move aside, I am saying it Very Respectfully".Ayesha said and pushed her aside making Kanak halted but she didn't fall, Ayesha  was in no mood today to argue with that Respectful Lady.

She came inside the haveli and put the Bowl where Rajvati told her.

"let's start the Haldi".Parul said from outside making Ayesha's attention go there.

Ayesha came into the garden where the haldi was going to take place and Found Aryan and Manisha already settled, ready for the haldi.

"Arey Aryan's face is already glowing, what will happen when we will apply Haldi". Nandani Aryan's aunt  exclaimed with a Chuckle.

"Ab heroine se jaada skincare routine rakhega toh yahi hoga, Aunty".Ayesha said.

Manisha looked at Aryan in amusement and Ayesha earned a glare from Aryan which made everyone laugh.

"Don't tease my best friend Ayesha."He is our beauty queen! Right Aryaaannaa?". Raman Aryan's bestfriend said making Aryan Gasped.

"Raman!! You are my best friend! Stop embarrassing me!"

"What are you embarrassed of? Dude, it's true but Shaadi vale din tu meri bhabhi se jyada ready mat ho jaanal" Everyone laughed at Raman words.

"You know what? I don't want to put Haldil You guys do whatever you want!" Aryan  said getting annoyed and about to stand up but Darsh held his hand.

"Arey Jeejaaa jiiiii aap toh bura maan gaye".

"Don't worry You'll single murti, Even My time will come, then I will not let you breathe in peace!" Aryan said.

"Sure! I will wait!" Raman gave him a tight lip smile.

"We should start the function!" Suman
said making everyone nod.

"I will Apply first Haldi on My Bhaiya
and Bhabhi !" Ayesha Jumped.

Ayesha came forward to apply Haldi, She
took the haldi in her hand and applied
it on Aryan's cheeks gently.

Aryan smiled cheekily but then Ayesha rubbed his whole face harshly making his whole face covered with haldi which made him look like a clown and everyone burst into loud laugh even Manisha wasn't able to control.

"Ayeshaa!! I hate you!" Aryan shouted but not harshly.

"I hate you too..Bhai.. C'mon man it's your Haldil Don't you want to glow like a streetlight in your wedding?" With that Ayesha applied more haldi

"Really? Then apply here tool" Aryan said pulling his hand's sleeve more up.

Ayesha rubbed the Haldi all over his hands, neck, face, and even in his hair.

"Ayesha ji , just apply on my cheeks, I don't want to have any glow-up  Manisha said looking at Aryan's condition when Ayesha came to her.

"Chill Meri Bhabhi Jaan , I want you to look pretty in your wedding function!" Ayesha said with an assuring smile and applied haldi on Manisha's cheeks making her sigh in relief but then Ayesha put haldi on her allover face making
Manisha gasp in shock.

"Ayesha ji !!!" Manisha yelled.

"Heheheheh" Aryan points his palm
towards Manisha and laughs showing his 32 teeth which will not be 32 anymore, but Manisha realised that they were in front of everyone so she sat silently, till then Vihaan also joined them.

Then Ayesha  whispered something
in Anshu's ear who nodded excitedly while smiling and went somewhere.

Ayesha Smirked looking at her cousin who gulped hard.

All this time everyone was busy applying
Haldi on Aryan and Manisha who were
surrounded by a lot of people.

"It's my Bhai's wedding! And Naach gaana na ho, it's impossible! Dugguu!!!" Ayesha called him .Who stood up from his place and went somewhere.

"What did you plan, Ayesha? Dhirendra asked.

When nothing happened and Everyone
looked at her in confusion.

"Ahhhhhh" suddenly everyone heard
Manisha 's scream which took their attention.

They all turned to her to find her drenched in water, and before Aryan could react he also got wet from water that was thrown by Duggu from the pipe and Anshu  threw petals of Red Roses which stuck on their bodies.

Everyone looked at them in Surprise
"What did you guys do!?" Aryan and Manisha said together looking at their condition.

"Now it's gonna be fun"
"Music"



As the music filled the air once more, the atmosphere regained its lively spirit, and everyone resumed dancing with renewed energy.

As Vihaan watched Ayesha dance, he felt a warmth spread through his chest, his heart beating faster with each movement she made.

He couldn't tear his gaze away from her, captivated by her every gesture and expression.

The music swirled around them, filling the air with joy and excitement, but all he could focus on was her.

Suddenly, Ayesha caught his eye and flashed him a dazzling smile, causing his cheeks to flush with embarrassment.

He quickly looked away, trying to compose himself, but the image of her smile lingered in his mind, imprinting itself on his heart.

As Manisha suddenly disappeared from the festivities, Vihaan felt a pang of concern shoot through him.

"Where did she go?" he asked Darsh, scanning the crowd for any sign of her.

Darsh shrugged, a mischievous glint in his eye. "I don't know".

Before Vihaan could respond, Shruti and her cousins began to disappear as well, leaving him bewildered. What was going on?

Then, Manisha reappeared, gesturing for Vihaan to come over.

He furrowed his brow in confusion but complied, intrigued by her secretive demeanor.

Suddenly, he found himself drenched in haldi and water, the laughter of their friends and family ringing in his ears.

He couldn't help but chuckle at the prank, though he couldn't deny the embarrassment of being the center of attention.

His white kurta clung to his body, accentuating his muscular frame as he looked around, trying to gauge everyone's reactions.

Seeing Manisha's playful pout, he couldn't resist teasing her back.

"Aw, my dear sister," he mocked, grabbing a handful of haldi and smearing it on her face and hair.

"There, now we're even."

Manisha whined in protest, but Vihaan just laughed, feeling grateful for the joyous chaos of the moment.

Just as the rhythm started to weave its magic again, the music abruptly stopped, eliciting a collective groan from the dancers.

Ayesha,  immediately voiced her frustration, "Oyyee, gaana kisne band kiya?!" Her cry echoed through the room, drawing everyone's attention.

Amidst the puzzled looks, a deep, masculine voice responded, "Maine."

All eyes turned to the source of the voice, and Ayesha's face lit up with recognition. "Ashuuuuuu!!!!" she exclaimed, rushing towards him and enveloping him in a tight hug. "Miss me?" Ashish teased.

"YES, I did!" Ayesha declared, her joy palpable.

Witnessing their heartfelt reunion, the guests couldn't help but smile, touched by the depth of their bond. However, Ayesha's smile quickly faded as she playfully punched Ashish. "Aw," he protested.

"Why are you hitting me? You said you wouldn't come, and I was so sad because of you!" Ayesha exclaimed, ready to scold him, but before she could land another blow, Aryan intervened.

"Don't hit him. He's back after three years," Aryan reminded her, wrapping Ashish in a warm hug of his own. "Bhai, you ruined my clothes," Ashish complained.

As the music resumed, the friends laughed off their playful banter and joined the dance floor once more, their bond stronger than ever.

As everyone swayed to the music, immersed in the joy of the haldi function, Vihaan stood on the sidelines, consumed by jealousy. His eyes fixated on Ayesha, his heart burning with resentment as he watched her dance with Ashish.

"Why is she dancing with him? Why is he touching her like that?" Vihaan muttered under his breath, his anger simmering beneath the surface.

Krish, sensing his friend's discomfort, approached him with a friendly gesture.

"Tu yaha akela kya kar raha hai bhai? Chal, dance karte hai, teri behen ki haldi hai," Krish suggested, trying to include Vihaan in the festivities.

But Vihaan's jealousy clouded his judgment, and he rebuffed Krish's offer. "I'm not interested," he snapped, his tone sharp with frustration.

Krish persisted, refusing to let Vihaan wallow in solitude. "Chal na, be. Kyu bau kha raha hai?" he urged, attempting to lighten the mood.

Vihaan's glare intensified, his irritation palpable. "Mat chal ja, bhad mai ja" he retorted, his jealousy festering as he continued to watch Ayesha and Ashish dance together, his heart heavy with unresolved emotions.

As the haldi function reached its conclusion, exhaustion lingered in the air, and the guests dispersed to their respective rooms to rest. Ayesha, feeling weary from the day's festivities, made her way to her room, her mind still buzzing with the memories of the event.

Meanwhile, Vihaan's emotions were in turmoil. Consumed by jealousy and frustration, he sought solace in the bottom of a glass. Snatching drinks from a passing waiter, he downed them one by one, the liquid burning his throat as it numbed his senses.

After finishing almost all the glasses on the waiter's serving tray, Vihaan abruptly rose from his seat and left without a word, his mind clouded with unresolved feelings and his heart heavy with regret.

As the night descended, the echoes of laughter and music faded, leaving behind a somber silence. Each guest retreated to their rooms, seeking refuge from the chaos of the day. And in the quiet solitude of her chamber, Ayesha reflected on the events that had transpired, her thoughts drifting to Vihaan and the lingering tension between them.

Author Love Ended

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Thanks for Reading
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"Big surprise alert! 🚨 Something unexpected is coming your way in the next chapter. Will it be romance, drama, or something else entirely? If you're curious, stay tuned for the next installment to find out!" 📖✨

Bye Byeee~

Bride and The groom ( Aryan and Manisha)



Decorations



Ayesha's Outfit



Vihaan's outfit



सोया था नस नस में अब ये जग गया...
ऐ लहू मुंह लग गया
लबों के छूने से... ख्वाबों के कोने से
लबों के छूने से... ख्वाबों के कोने से
बचके सब लैब से लैब ये रग से रग गया ऐ...
लहू मुंह लग गया ऐ...
लहू मुंह लग गया...

✷

Ayesha Pov

Oh, I'm so tired, I said to myself, weary after showing Ashu his room. I walked down the dimly lit hallway towards my own room.

As I reached for the handle, I noticed the light was off inside. Strange, I could have sworn it was on before, I thought.

Turning the handle, I pushed open the door. Before I could step inside, strong hands suddenly gripped my shoulders, pinning me against the door.

My eyes widened in fear, and I was about to scream when a hand covered my mouth firmly.

"Shhhh..." a familiar voice whispered urgently. "It's me."

I froze, trying to process the voice through the haze of panic.

Vihaan ji? Slowly, he removed his hand from my mouth, but his arms remained around me, holding me against him.

I could feel his breath on my neck, and a shiver ran down my spine. Was he... drunk? The scent of alcohol clung to him unmistakably.

"Aa-Aap kya kar rahe hain, Vihaan ji?". I managed to stutter, my voice trembling with a mix of confusion and apprehension.

He didn't respond, his silence echoing in the dimly lit room. I stood there, still in my haldi-soaked saree, the fabric clinging uncomfortably to my body from our playful water haldi game earlier.

And he... he was wet too. No, not him, just his clothes. "Why am I even thinking like this?" I scolded myself silently, feeling embarrassed by my own thoughts.

In the darkness, his presence felt palpable even though I couldn't see him. I could sense his eyes on me, his gaze intense and focused.

Slowly, he moved closer, his warm breath grazing my neck, sending shivers down my spine. My heart raced, and I could feel my chest rising and falling with every nervous breath.

Then, unexpectedly, he rested his head gently on my shoulder. His closeness overwhelmed me, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions - confusion, anticipation, and a flicker of something deeper.

I stood frozen, unsure of how to react to this intimate gesture in the dimly lit room.

"Vihaan ji," I said again, my voice shaky, trying to break the tension that hung thick in the air.

"Hm..." he whispered in response, his breath warm against my ear.

"Can you please leave me?" I pleaded, my voice barely above a whisper, hoping he would understand and step away.

"No," he murmured, his voice deep and commanding, sending a shiver down my spine.

I looked at him, startled, as his hand moved towards the table beside me.

There, I noticed something familiar - a small bowl of turmeric powder.

Haldi? The same haldi that dadi ji had asked me to put in the kitchen earlier today? What is it doing here? I wondered, confusion knitting my brows.

Before I could ponder any further, his hand scooped up a handful of haldi and without warning, he applied it gently on my waist.

A gasp escaped my lips as the cool powder touched my skin, sending a shiver down my spine. My cheeks flushed crimson, a mix of surprise and a strange, tingling sensation spreading through me.

Ayesha Pov Ended

Author Pov

In the softly lit room, the air was heavy with the scent of turmeric as Vihaan stood with Ayesha his arms wrapped around her waist, his touch deliberate yet tender as he dipped his fingers into the bowl of haldi.

Ayesha's heart raced with a mixture of nerves and anticipation as she felt Vihaan's warm hands begin to trace patterns on her skin.

Vihaan's touch sent electric pulses through Ayesha's body, awakening sensations she had never experienced before.

Each stroke of his fingers, spreading the haldi paste across her arms and shoulders.

"Vihaan ji , " she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, her eyes closed as she surrendered to the intimacy of the moment.

He didn't respond with words but continued his ministrations, his touch speaking volumes.

With each gentle movement, Vihaan seemed to be unraveling the layers of restraint that Ayesha had meticulously built around her heart.

The haldi, meant to symbolize purity and blessings, now became a conduit for their unspoken yearnings.

As Vihaan's hands moved lower, applying the paste with a reverence that bordered on worship, Ayesha's breath hitched.

She could feel his presence behind her, strong yet gentle, his proximity stirring emotions she had long kept buried.

"Vihaan ji..," she murmured again, her voice a plea and a question rolled into one.

He paused, his hands still against her skin, his touch leaving an indelible imprint.

Their gazes locked, the intensity of their emotions echoing in the silence. The haldi ceremony had transformed into a dance of longing and hesitation, a fragile dance where each step could either lead them closer together or push them apart.

As Vihaan's fingers brushed against her cheek, wiping away a stray smear of haldi.

Author Pov Ended

Ayesha Pov

"Vihaan ji, you're drunk," I repeated, my patience wearing thin as he leaned heavily against me.

"Hmm, I know, maybe a little," he replied in that deep, slurred voice of his. His sudden realization about the haldi ending brought a pang of sympathy.

"Oh no, the haldi got finished," he mumbled, burying his face into the crook of my neck once more.

Taking a deep breath, I attempted to gently pry his grip from my waist, but he held on tighter.

"Vihaan ji, please," I pleaded softly, my voice betraying the nerves his closeness stirred.

"I'm sleepy," he whispered, his words almost lost against my skin.

"So, you should sleep in your room," I urged, trying to maintain composure despite the storm of emotions inside me.

"I'm feeling tired too, and what if someone sees us like this?" Anxiety crept in as I thought about the compromising position we were in.

Slowly, I began to lead him towards my bed, his arms still wrapped around me. "Ugh, kis bhes ka doodh pite hai aapOr how heavy are you?" I muttered half to myself, half to him.

He moved with me, but suddenly he halted, pulling back slightly to look at me.

"What are you doing?" he asked, confusion evident in his gaze.

"Trying to get you to sit on the bed," I replied, feeling a mix of irritation and an odd urge to pinch his cheeks because of how endearingly clueless he looked.

Vihaan blinked at me, processing my words slowly. "Oh, right," he muttered, allowing me to guide him to the bed.

As he settled down, he looked up at me with a soft expression. "Thank you, Ayesha," he said, his voice barely above a whisper before his eyelids drooped.

"No, don't sleep here. Go to your room and rest," I insisted, my hands on my hips as I stood in front of him.

He remained seated on the bed, looking at me with a mixture of affection and intoxication.

Suddenly, he wrapped his arms around my waist again and buried his face against my waist, tickling me.

"What is this obsession with my waist?" I exclaimed, a mixture of exasperation and amusement in my voice. Despite everything, I couldn't help but smile at his antics. "Vihaan ji, come on, let's get you to your room," I said, gently trying to extricate myself from his embrace.

Vihaan looked up at me with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "But your bed is so much more comfortable," he teased, a playful grin spreading across his face.

"Nice try, Vihaan ji. Now, let's go," I said, guiding him towards the door once more, determined to get him settled in his own room before his drunken antics caused any more mischief.

As I was about to pull him to stand he pulled me towards him, I stumbled and found myself hovering over him, my hands instinctively gripping his shoulders.

Our eyes locked in a moment of silent understanding, his hands resting lightly on my waist. Before I could react, he unexpectedly leaned back, pulling me down with him onto the bed.

I gasped softly, feeling his grip tighten slightly as he settled into a more comfortable position, his eyes still closed. For a moment, I was trapped in the warmth of his embrace, uncertain of what to do next.

After a few minutes, his grip relaxed, and I carefully extricated myself from his hold.

He seemed deeply asleep, his breathing slow and steady. Checking the clock, I realized it was already 11 PM. I needed to do something about my sticky, haldi-smeared attire, adorned with stray petals from earlier.

Looking back at Vihaan ji sleeping peacefully, I debated my next move.

"If he's sleeping, I can freshen up first, then figure out what to do with him," I reasoned quietly to myself.

I walked over to the closet, picking out a fresh set of clothes, and headed towards the bathroom.

Closing the door softly behind me, I let out a sigh of relief. The warm water cascading down felt soothing against my skin, washing away the remnants of the haldi and the day's events.

As I dried myself off and changed into clean clothes, my thoughts drifted back to him .What had possessed him to act this way tonight? Was it just the alcohol, or was there something more behind his actions?

I glanced at the clock again. It was nearing midnight now. I needed to decide what to do about him before the night slipped away entirely.

Gathering my resolve, I stepped out of the bathroom, ready to face whatever awaited me in the dimly lit room.

As I returned to the room, my eyes fell upon his kurta lying abandoned on the floor, and him sleeping bare-chested.

A blush crept up my cheeks at the sight, and I hurriedly walked over to pick up his kurta, placing it neatly on the table beside the bed.

"I'll sleep in Shristi's room tonight," I decided silently, trying to rationalize the situation.

"I'll explain everything to her in the morning, and then Yai mujhe btayenge ki yai yaha kya kr rhe the.."

Turning back towards the bed, I noticed the AC was on, and Vihaan might catch a cold. "Mai itne bhi patthar dil nhi nhi " I murmured to myself with a hint of amusement as I grabbed the blanket from the foot of the bed.

Just as I was about to gently drape the blanket over him, he suddenly moved with surprising force, catching my hand in his grip and pulling me down onto the bed. The blanket wrapped around both of us completely, enveloping us in warmth.

My heart raced in my chest as I lay there beside him, unsure of what to do next.

His grip on my hand tightened slightly, his eyes still closed in sleep. His warmth surrounded me, and despite the confusion and unexpected turn of events, I couldn't deny a strange comfort in his presence.

"Vihaan ji..." I whispered softly, uncertain whether he was truly asleep or aware of what he was doing.

His steady breathing and relaxed expression suggested he was indeed asleep, yet his hold on my hand remained firm, as if he needed the reassurance of my presence.

I glanced at his face, illuminated faintly by the moonlight filtering through the curtains. His features softened in sleep, his usual confident demeanor replaced by a vulnerability that tugged at my heart.

For a long moment, I simply lay there beside him, feeling the rise and fall of his chest beneath the blanket. The room was quiet, save for the faint hum of the AC and the rhythmic sound of our breathing.

As I tried to make sense of the situation, a part of me wondered what this meant for us. Were we crossing a line we couldn't return from, or was this merely a fleeting moment of intimacy born from unexpected circumstances?

Ab Mai kya karu?" I wondered silently, my thoughts swirling. His grip on my hand remained constant, as if he needed the reassurance of my presence just as much as I needed to make sense of what was happening between us.

Slowly, I felt my eyelids grow heavy. Despite the unanswered questions and the uncertain future, there was a strange peace in surrendering to sleep beside him.

His warmth seeped into me, calming the turmoil within.

As sleep finally claimed me, I held onto a faint hope that when I woke, everything would make sense again.

But for now, wrapped in the blanket of night and tangled in the complexity of emotions, I allowed myself to drift away into dreams, his hand still holding mine in a silent promise of connection.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

Hehehe 🫣😁I don't know if the chapter is good or not but Maine pura try Kiya hai scenes ko thoda romantic bnane ka .

Target for comment 10+ ok? Try Karo yrr please comment kar dena wrna next update next month mai karungi direct (aisa nhi hoga just joking)

Ok bye

More than 2000 words..

तेरे बिना बेस्वादी-बेस्वादी रतियाँ, ओ, सजना~
तेरे बिना बेस्वादी-बेस्वादी रतियाँ, ओ, सजना, हो
रूखी रे, वो रूखी रे, काटूँ रे, काटे कटे ना~
तेरे बिना बेस्वादी-बेस्वादी रतियाँ, ओ, सजना
तेरे बिना बेस्वादी-बेस्वादी रतियाँ, ओ, सजना, हो~

✷

Vote Target 30+
Comment Target 15+

Vihaan's POV:

As I woke up, my head was pounding, but there was an inexplicable comfort around me, as if someone was holding me close. I groaned softly and felt gentle hands on my waist.

Opening my eyes suddenly, there she was. Her face, bathed in morning light, was breathtakingly beautiful, radiant like sunshine.

Her lips, a soft shade of pink, seemed almost within reach, and stray strands of hair danced across her face.

Instinctively, I brushed the hair away, but reality crashed over me like a wave.

"Why is she here?" I panicked inwardly. Looking around, I realized with a sinking feeling that this wasn't my room.

Confusion and disbelief clouded my thoughts. Slowly sitting up, I noticed I was still in the pajama bottoms from yesterday's haldi ceremony, missing my kurta.

"What's going on?" I muttered, frustration and bewilderment mingling in my voice.

Then it hit me-I had stormed into her room after the haldi, consumed by jealousy over her best friend... Ashu-Ashish , that was his name.

I hurriedly grabbed my kurta, checking the time. It was only 6:30 in the morning; surely no one else would be awake yet from yesterday's festivities.

Carefully disentangling her legs from mine, I noticed how peacefully she slept. Part of me wanted to stay longer, but I couldn't. How could I overstep like this? What would she think of me?

"Damn it, Vihaan," I muttered to myself, grappling with regret and confusion over my actions.

I quietly slipped out of her room unnoticed, relieved that no one seemed to have seen me. Some people were already awake, but I managed to evade their notice and hurried back to my own room.

The throbbing in my head was persistent, so I quickly took a shower to freshen up and asked one of the workers for a painkiller.

My mind raced with thoughts of how to explain what had happened. How could I have acted so impulsively? What would she think of me now?

Lost in my thoughts, I was startled when I heard my door creak open. I had forgotten to lock it. Darsh, my younger cousin, barged in excitedly.

"Bhaiii!! What's up?" he exclaimed.

I sighed, trying to gather my thoughts. "Kya hua Darsh?" I replied.

"Bhai, aren't you going to practice for the Sangeet? We need to go for breakfast now and then practice," he said eagerly.

I shook my head. "No, I'm not interested in all of that. You know that," I said firmly, hoping he would drop the subject.

But Darsh was persistent. "I'll tell Badi mummy that you're not cooperating in Di's wedding preparations. She'll scold you," he threatened with a mischievous grin.

I narrowed my eyes at him. "Oh really? Shall I tell Choti maa about your crush then?" I retorted, smirking back at him.

Darsh's eyes widened in alarm. "Bhai, no! Please don't," he pleaded, realizing he had crossed a line.

I sighed again, feeling a mix of amusement and frustration at his antics.

"Just leave me alone for now, okay? I'll think about the Sangeet later," I said, hoping he would finally leave so I could gather my thoughts and figure out how to handle the mess I had created with her.

I had managed to fend off Darsh's persistence, but my relief was short-lived as my mother walked in, clearly aware of our argument.

"Kya kaha aapne? Bache ko blackmail kar rahe the aap, Vihaan?" she asked sternly, her disappointment evident.

"Badi Mummy!" Darsh protested, attempting to garner sympathy by hugging her sideways. I could only glare at him, frustrated by the situation.

"Chup chap chaliye, aap nashta kijiye aur inke saath Sangeet ke liye practice kijiye. Samjhe aap?" my mother commanded, her tone leaving no room for argument.

"But Maa..." I started to protest.

"Vihaan, you know it's your sister's wedding. This means a lot to her," she said, her voice tinged with emotion as she tried to appeal to my sense of responsibility.

"Fine," I relented with a sigh. "You all go ahead, I'll join you."

My mother nodded, satisfied, and Darsh looked smug, knowing he had gotten his way.

As they left, I sank onto the bed, feeling the weight of guilt and confusion settling over me once more.

How could I face her after what happened this morning? What would I say?

I took a moment to collect myself, then headed out to join them, hoping that somehow I could make amends and find a way to navigate through the mess I had created.

I changed into a brown t-shirt and black-colored pants, trying to shake off the remnants of the morning's confusion and guilt.

As I walked towards the dining table, my heart raced with nervous anticipation. I reassured myself that it wasn't entirely my fault; I had been drunk and disoriented, and it was an honest mistake.

But seeing her across the table, her cheeks flushed, made me wonder if she was angry or embarrassed.

"Vihaan, aap itne late kaise?" Dadi's voice brought me back to reality. I managed a weak smile and shook my head in response, feeling the weight of the morning's events pressing down on me.

I sat beside her, trying to avoid direct eye contact, unsure of how to address the awkwardness between us.

The conversation around Sangeet preparations buzzed in the background, but I found myself lost in my thoughts, absentmindedly playing with my food.

Krish, sitting beside me, leaned in and whispered, concern evident in his voice. "Kya hua tereko? Aisa kyu behave kar raha hai?" His words brought me back momentarily, but I couldn't find the words to respond.

I simply shook my head again and continued eating, my mind racing with uncertainty and regret.

Vihaan POV Ended

Author Pov

Ayesha and Shristi were deep in the midst of their chocolate-fueled strategy session for the upcoming Sangeet, their minds buzzing with ideas and laughter.

Meanwhile, their cousins were engaged in a lively, albeit heated, discussion over dance steps.

"Tujhe thappad maar dungi main," threatened one cousin, while another retorted cheekily, "Touch, karke toh dikha, chudail kahin ki!"

Harsh, the nerd cousin of the group, adjusted her glasses and intervened calmly, "Tum dono pagal ho kya?"

Ayesha, sensing an opportunity amidst the chaos, stood up with a mischievous grin.

"Let's watch the bride's side perform. We'll steal some ideas. It'll be fun, and since we're from the groom's side, our performance is first anyway. What do you say?"

"No, no," Harsh interjected nervously. "Let's not take risks."

"Tu chup kar," Ayesha retorted playfully.

"Risk mat lo," Shristi warned.

"Aree, main thodi keh rahi hoon ki poora copy karenge. Just observe, and if we like something, we'll do a little 'matching matching'," Ayesha explained, trying to convince them.

"It'll make our performance even better."Duggu said.

"Hmm, sounds good," Anshu agreed.

"Kya, sounds good? There's nothing good about this," Suhani, their older cousin, chimed in.

"Chup karo, tum log," Ayesha declared. "Trust me on this. Anshu, chalo mere saath. Baki tum log stay here and think about some other ideas."

The cousins continued their banter, each with their own opinion on the matter, but Ayesha was determined to make their Sangeet performance unforgettable, even if it meant borrowing a few ideas from the other side.

As Ayesha and Anshu peered through the intricate lattice work that separated their side of the haveli from the living room where the groom's side practiced.

Their hearts raced with anticipation, eyes darting eagerly to catch glimpses of the rival performers.

Ayesha could feel the excitement building in her chest, her mind racing with ideas as she observed the graceful movements and energetic steps of the them on the other side.

Anshu, beside her, was grinning mischievously, already imagining how they could incorporate some of these moves into their own routine.

Ayesha whispered eagerly to Anshu, "Look at them, Anshu! They're really good. We could definitely use some of those moves in our performance."

Anshu nodded enthusiastically, his eyes glued to the dancers. "Absolutely! And did you see that lift? We should try something like that too!"

Ayesha chuckled softly, her excitement infectious. "Yes, that lift was amazing! We'll definitely surprise them with our performance."

As they continued to watch, the tension between competitiveness and admiration grew palpable.

Ayesha couldn't help but admire the groom's side's skill, but her determination to outshine them burned even brighter.

Anshu shared her resolve, her eyes narrowing in determination as she mentally noted down the moves they could incorporate.

"We're going to blow them away, Ayesha Di" Anshu said, her voice filled with confidence.

Ayesha smiled, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "Oh, we definitely will. Just wait and watch!"

Their minds buzzing with ideas and adrenaline, Ayesha and Anshu turned away from the lattice, ready to share their newfound inspiration with their cousins.

This Sangeet night was about to become a battleground of dance, and they were more than prepared to take on the challenge.

After a few tense minutes .Frustration brewed within Ayesha as she realized she had forgotten her glasses, making it difficult to discern what was happening around her.

Suddenly, a tap on her back startled her, and she retorted without looking back, assuming it was Anshu bothering her again.

"Arre, ruk ja na! Waise bhi Itne door se kuch bhi nahi dikh raha, aur tu pareshan kar rahe hai," Ayesha snapped, her irritation evident in her voice.

"Ji, doorbin le aau apke liye?" a gentle voice whispered unexpectedly.

Ayesha's eyes widened in surprise as she recognized the voice.

She turned around quickly, her heart skipping a beat as she saw Vihaan standing so close to her, their faces just inches apart.

Anshu had apparently vanished without letting her know Vihaan was approaching.

Caught off guard by Vihaan's proximity, Ayesha lost her balance, her leg tripping over something.

She stumbled, on the brink of falling, but Vihaan's swift reflexes caught her just in time. His strong arms wrapped around her, steadying her with a firm yet gentle hold.

"Aap thik toh hai?" Vihaan asked
concern etched in his voice as he looked into her eyes.

Ayesha felt a rush of emotions – surprise, embarrassment, and something she couldn't quite name – all swirling within her.

She nodded slowly, feeling flustered yet strangely comforted by Vihaan's presence.

"Ji, I-I'm okay. Thank you," she managed to reply, her voice slightly breathless.

Vihaan smiled warmly, his eyes lingering on hers. "You should be more careful," he said, his tone playful,

"Especially in stealing the Bride group spotlight like that." He smirked, clearly teasing her.

Ayesha's cheeks flushed at his comment and the feel of his hand around her waist.

"M-Mai w-wo..." Ayesha stammered, struggling to form coherent words in response to his teasing.

"Ha ji, ha ji. Kahiye, kahiye... Main yahi hun, sun raha hu," Vihaan replied with a teasing smile, enjoying her flustered reaction.

Vihaan's playful remark caught Ayesha off guard, and she couldn't help but blush at the teasing tone in his voice.

His hand on her waist made her heart flutter, sending a rush of warmth through her body.

She bit her lip nervously, unsure how to respond to Vihaan's charm and the intimacy of their close proximity.

She hesitated for a moment, then gathered the courage to look up at Vihaan. "Thank you for catching me," she added sincerely, her eyes locking with his.

Vihaan's smile softened, and he nodded, his expression earnest. "Anytime," he replied softly, his thumb gently brushing against her waist.

The touch sent a shiver down Ayesha's spine, leaving her breathless and craving more of his closeness.

Before either of them could say anything more, the bustling noise around them started to pick up again, breaking the intimate moment.

Vihaan reluctantly released his hold on Ayesha, though his gaze remained fixed on her, as if he couldn't look away.

Ayesha took a small step back, her cheeks still flushed with a combination of embarrassment and exhilaration.

"I should... I should go," she murmured, feeling slightly flustered by the intensity of their encounter.

Vihaan nodded understandingly, though his eyes conveyed a hint of reluctance. "Yeah, of course," he agreed softly, a hint of disappointment evident in his voice.

As Ayesha turned to leave, a smile lingering on her lips, she was unexpectedly halted by Vihaan's voice calling out to her.

"Suniye, Ayesha," he said softly, his tone laced with sincerity.

She paused in her tracks, her heart skipping a beat as she turned back towards him, curiosity and anticipation mixing in her expression.

"Kahiye," she replied , her voice holding a hint of playfulness, eager to hear what Vihaan had to say.

Vihaan's demeanor shifted, his usual confident posture faltering slightly as he spoke.

"I'm sorry. Wo kal raat main aapke room mein aagaya tha, galati se. I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to. I hope I didn't do anything..."

His words trailed off, his eyes searching hers for understanding.

Ayesha's mind flashed back to the previous night, remembering the unexpected intimacy of Vihaan's touch during the haldi ceremony.

Her cheeks flushed at the memory, but she couldn't resist teasing him a little after his playful banter earlier.

She took deliberate, predatory steps towards him, her eyes narrowing mischievously as she approached.

Vihaan's throat went dry, realizing he might be in for a playful retaliation. He gulped nervously, unsure of how Ayesha would react to his unintentional intrusion.

"Apki himmat kaise hui..."

Ayesha began, her voice filled with fake anger and teasing, as she closed the distance between them, effectively cornering Vihaan against the wall.

Vihaan's expression shifted, his features becoming guarded as memories of his upbringing flashed through his mind.

His mother's words about always respecting women echoed in his ears, reminding him of the importance of humility and accountability.

"Apne..." Ayesha continued, her tone carrying a mock seriousness as she caged Vihaan with her playful gaze.

Vihaan swallowed hard, his breath catching in his throat. "Maine?" he whispered, his voice barely audible as he braced himself for her response.

Ayesha's playful demeanor softened into a gentle smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Apne kuch nahi kiya," she reassured him with a soft giggle, stepping back slightly to give him space.

Relief washed over Vihaan's face, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He exhaled deeply, grateful that Ayesha understood and wasn't upset with him.

Before he could say anything more, Ayesha turned on her heels and darted away, her laughter echoing in the corridor as she playfully ran off.

Vihaan watched her go, a mixture of emotions swirling inside him.

He couldn't help but admire her spirit and how gracefully she handled the situation.

As he leaned against the wall, a smile of genuine amusement spread across his face.

Their brief encounter had brought a moment of lightness and camaraderie, easing the tension that had lingered between them since that morning.

Vihaan knew that Ayesha's playful teasing was her way of showing acceptance and understanding, and he felt a newfound warmth towards her.

As he collected himself, Vihaan couldn't shake off the lingering feeling of anticipation and curiosity about what the future might hold between them.

With a renewed sense of hope, he pushed himself away from the wall and made his way back to join the bustling preparations of the Sangeet, his heart lighter and more open than before.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°
Another update

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Vote aur comment Karo fir jldi jldi new chapters Mai upload krte jaungi ok 👌🏻

इज़हार हुआ, हमें भी प्यार हुआ मुलाक़ात की है,
घड़ी अब ऐ, ऐ, ऐ, ऐ ~
नींद में भी,
लबो पे नाम तेरा~
बांके माई राहु,
तेरी परछाई, ऐ, ऐ, ऐ~

✷

Vote Target :- 30+

Author Pov

As Ayesha hurried back into the living area, her cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and uncertainty.
Duggu when noticed her couldn't resist asking, "Kya hua di?"

Shristi, noticing Ayesha's unusual redness, chimed in teasingly, "aagye tu? Aur itne laal kyu hogye hai marathon mai bhaag kar aarhe hai kya?"

Ayesha ignored the playful jab, scanning the room until she spotted Anshu hiding behind the sofa. Her voice rose sharply, laced with anger, "Anshuu! Nalayak ladki sharam kr lo, Mujhe chor kar bhaag gye the!"

Anshu, caught off guard, started explaining in a rush as she dodged Ayesha's advances, "Dii, Vihaan bhaiya ne mujhe bola jaane ko isliye mai gye..."

Ayesha interrupted, still visibly upset, "Tu mujhe bta skte the na!"

"You betrayed me, bit-h!" Ayesha yelled, grabbing a pillow and hurling it towards Anshu, who managed to evade it skillfully.

Confused, Shristi finally spoke up, "Aree hua kya hai tum log jhagra kyu kr rhe ho?"

Before anyone could answer, another pillow flew through the air, hitting someone unexpected who had just entered the room.

"Shit Shit shit," echoed in chorus from Shristi, Duggu, Anshu, and Harsh and Suhani

Ayesha froze, her nervous smile betraying  as she stammered, "Glti se lag gya Ashu...," revealing her mischief with an innocent grin.

He shake his head while rubbing his forehead where the pillow hit and asked.

"why you guys are fighting? instead of preparing for Sangeet."

"Di went to spy on Bhab-," Harsh blurted out, attempting to explain Ayesha's agitation, but Ayesha cut him off abruptly, "Aggsjdyhegdhd!"

Ashish looked at her suspiciously, his brows furrowing with concern.

"What's going on here?" he asked, trying to make sense of the chaos unfolding in the living area.

Ayesha took a deep breath, trying to compose herself.

"Anshu betrayed me," she finally managed to say, her voice tinged with fake anger and frustration. "She ran away."

Anshu, who had been cautiously edging away during Ayesha's explanation, piped up defensively, "Vihaan bhaiya asked me to go, Di. I didn't mean to upset you."

"Wait, isn't Vihaan Bhabhi's older brother? Why did he tell Anshu to go and not you? And what were you guys doing?" Ashish asked, puzzled.

Ayesha attempted to explain, but Shristi jumped in.

"Aree Ashish, iss ladki ne plan banaya ladki walo ka dance dekhne ka, which is not possible if we asked them directly, so she went to spy."

Ashish turned to Ayesha for clarification.

"Mai gayi thi lekin tum logo ne bhi toh ha kaha tha," Ayesha said, justifying her actions.

"And Ashu, do you know this girl?" Ayesha pointed accusingly at Anshu.

"Yai bhaag gayi jab isne Vihaan ji ko dekha, mujhe bina bataye aisa koi karta hai bhala and unhone-".Ayesha stopped herself before revealing more.

Shristi leaned forward with a mischievous glint in her eyes, teasing Ayesha. "Unhone kya?" she asked, her voice laced with amusement.

Ayesha shot Shristi a warning glance, her irritation clear. "Wo-" she began, but was interrupted by Ashish.

"Wo wo kya kar rahe ho, sugar?" Ashish interjected, curiosity evident in his tone. "Batao toh."

Caught off guard, Ayesha blurted out, "He scolded me. Unhone mujhe daata."

She sighed, frustration creeping into her voice. "You know how much akdu he is."

"Oh really?" A smooth voice cut through the air from behind Ashish.

Everyone turned to see Vihaan standing there, a smirk playing on his lips as he looked directly at Ayesha, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

His presence sent a jolt of surprise through her, memories of their recent argument flashing through her mind, heating her cheeks even more.

Ayesha stared at Vihaan in shock, her wide eyes betraying her unease.

She hesitated for a moment, then bravely met his gaze. "H-Ha, nahi toh kya, apne mujhe daata nahi kiya?" she challenged, her voice slightly shaky but defiant.

Before the confrontation could escalate, Suhani's phone rang, its sudden interruption momentarily diverting everyone's attention.

"Masi is calling," Suhani announced, hastily answering the call. "Hanji hum aate hai," she responded, her voice softer now, a stark contrast to the charged atmosphere just moments before.

Suhani's call broke the tension, redirecting the family's focus to more mundane matters. "Mami is calling everyone for lunch, chlo sb," Suhani announced, attempting to restore normalcy as she moved towards the dining area.

The transition to discussing lunch was accompanied by Duggu's enthusiastic declaration, "Ha bohot zyda bhook lge hai."

Anshu, never one to miss an opportunity for a playful jab, teased Duggu, "Tujhe humesha bhook he lge rehte hai din bhar toh thusta rehta hai." Laughter rippled through the room, easing the previous tension.

Observing the exchange with a wry smile, Ashish shook his head fondly at the banter. As the family began to disperse towards the dining room,Vihaan and  Ashish fell into step, with Ayesha following closely behind.

Wait my phone Ayesha thought and stop and turned around to find her phone on couch where she left before.

As Ayesha walked towards the couch and picked up her phone, she suddenly felt a strong grip on her shoulders, pinning her down.

"You!?"

Author Pov Ended

Ayesha's POV:

Today is Bhai's Sangeet and Mehndi, and amidst all the excitement, I couldn't find my earrings.

"Meri earrings kaha gayeee," I cried out in frustration, tears welling up in my eyes. I had already put on my dress, and now these silly earrings were missing.

I quickly dialed Shristi's phone to ask if she had my earrings or an extra pair.

"Kutti phone bhi nahi utha rahi," I muttered in annoyance. Just then, my phone rang. It was her.

"Meri earrings tere pass hain kya? Green wale," I asked urgently.

"Haan, mere pass hain. Tereko to dhyan nahi rehta, tune mujhe hi diya tha, aakar le le. Mai abhi ready ho rahi hun," she replied casually.

I sighed in relief, thankful that Shristi had them. "Thanks yaar, tune bacha liya," I said gratefully, rushing to her room to collect the earrings.

As I looked at myself in the mirror and tied my hair in a messy loose bun with a hair clip, I started walking towards Shristi's room.

Suddenly, someone came from behind and took out the clip, letting my hair fall loosely around my shoulders. I turned around in surprise and found him standing there.

"Tune aisa kyu kiya?" I asked, making an annoyed face.

"Khud ready ho gaya hai toh mujhe nahi hone dega kya? Gadha!" I exclaimed, irritated but with a hint of playful teasing.

Ashu grinned mischievously. "Sorry yaar, per tere Dayan jaise balo ko dekhe hue 1 din ho gya tha so couldn't resist messing with your hair. You look great though in open hairs ," he said, wearing the hair clip  near his kurta pocket

"Mujhe wapas kar," I demanded playfully, reaching out for the clip.

"Nahi," he replied with a playful smirk, holding it just out of my reach.

Before I could protest further, his phone buzzed. It was my mother calling him. I watched as Ashu answered the call, a warm smile spreading across his face.

"Hanji Aunty," he said respectfully. "Ji, mai bhi aajata hun."

Listening to him speak with my mother, the affection and ease in his voice struck me. He had always been close to my family, but hearing my mother talk to him with such warmth was something new.

I couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy mixed with admiration.

After he hung up, he glanced at me mischievously. "Your mom loves me more than you," he teased, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Rolling my eyes, I couldn't help but smile. "Whatever you say, Ashu. Now give me back my clip," I insisted, trying not to let him see how much his easy rapport with my family affected me.

After Ashu teasingly refused to return the hair clip, I decided to play along. I pretended to pout and crossed my arms, feigning indignation. "Fine then, keep it," I said with a mock serious expression.

"But you owe me one now."

Ashu chuckled and nodded. "Ok, I'm going to aunty," he said, turning to leave.

I couldn't help but smile at his playful nature, even though I secretly wanted my clip back. "Fine," I called after him teasingly. "But don't forget, I'm keeping score!"

As Ashu disappeared down the hallway, I sighed playfully and shook my head. With a grin, I headed towards Shristi's room to finally collect my earrings and finish getting ready for  Bhai's Sangeet and Mehndi.

Ayesha POV Ended:

Author Pov

Little did Ayesha know that someone was watching them-someone who had silently harbored feelings for her.

It was Vihaan, observing from a distance, his emotions stirring inside him. As he witnessed Ashu and Ayesha's playful interaction, a pang of jealousy gripped him, tightening his jaw with a mix of frustration and longing.

Vihaan quietly turned away, his mind clouded with thoughts as he made his way back to the mehndi area where his sister's celebrations were in full swing.

His expression was unreadable, but deep down, he couldn't shake off the unease of seeing Ayesha with someone else.

As the lively Sangeet celebrations unfolded, tension hung in the air between the bride and groom, seated at a distance by tradition's decree.

Ayesha, mischievous as ever, leaned in to whisper something to Manisha, who couldn't suppress a giggle despite herself.

Her eyes darted over to Aryan, her soon-to-be husband, who was engrossed in conversation with Darsh and Shruti.

The room erupted with excitement as the music suddenly blared to life, its upbeat rhythm signaling the bride's cue.

With a determined yet teasing smile, Manisha rose from her seat and began to glide towards Aryan, every step echoing the playful lyrics of the song.

("Aaj ke ladke I tell you kitne lallu what to do").



(View this full video to feel the chapter scenario)

The audience held its breath, captivated by the unfolding drama between the couple-to-be.

As Manisha stood in the spotlight, the music abruptly halted, and the hall plunged into darkness.

A hush fell over the room, and nervous whispers filled the air.

Just as uncertainty began to creep in, the music burst back to life with a sudden surge of energy.

The main lights blazed on, illuminating Aryan standing at the center of the dance floor.

" Raanjhana " began to play, its soulful melody echoing through the room.

Everyone turned their gaze towards the groom, captivated by his unexpected moment in the spotlight.



His eyes widened in surprise, then softened with a hint of amusement as he realized all eyes were on him.

Manisha, from her place in the shadows, watched with a mix of admiration and affection. She could see the slight flush of embarrassment on his face, a charming contrast to his usual composed demeanor.

Slowly, a smile spread across her lips, filled with warmth and anticipation for the dance that was about to unfold.

In that brief, magical moment, the tension dissipated, replaced by a shared sense of joy and celebration. The music continued to weave its spell, drawing everyone into the unfolding romance of the evening.

As Aryan began to dance to the lively beats of "Ik vaari aa and Kaho na pyar hai " Ayesha led the way with her energetic moves, followed closely by Anshu, Duggu, and Suhani.

Their steps synchronized effortlessly with the pulsating rhythm, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Meanwhile, the music continued to build in tempo and intensity, echoing the rising anticipation in the room. Guests cheered and clapped along, swept up in the infectious energy of the dance.

Aryan, catching the eye of his Manisha amidst the whirlwind of movement, felt a surge of excitement.

With each step closer to the bride, Aryan mirrored the music's gestures - playful, yet purposeful.

His eyes locked onto hers, conveying unspoken promises and a shared journey about to unfold.

The bride, her heart racing in sync with the beats, responded with a coy smile, her hands subtly mirroring his movements in a silent dance of their own.

In this moment of shared joy and celebration, the music became the backdrop to their unspoken dialogue, weaving together the threads of their love story with each melodious note.

The room, alive with laughter and applause, bore witness to their journey as they danced towards a future intertwined with love and happiness.

As Ayesha came to stage .Vihaan watched with a soft smile as Ayesha took the center stage, her infectious energy spreading joy throughout the room.



Her playful banter with her cousins, especially with Aryan while dancing, brought a lightness to the atmosphere that was palpable.

He admired the way she effortlessly teased her soon-to-be bhabhi, Manisha, making everyone burst into laughter with her mischievous antics.

As Ayesha danced, Vihaan couldn't help but be mesmerized by her graceful movements and radiant smile. Each step she took seemed to be in perfect sync with the music, her joyous spirit shining brightly.

He found himself captivated not just by her beauty but by the genuine happiness she exuded, a happiness that seemed to touch everyone around her.

Vihaan's gaze lingered on Ayesha as she twirled and spun, her laughter filling the room like a melody.

In that moment, amidst the festivities and celebrations, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration and affection for her.

She was not just Aryan's sister but someone who had effortlessly found her way into his heart with her infectious charm and vibrant personality.

As the Sangeet performance continued, everyone danced with joy to the vibrant beats of music and suddenly the song played"Hua Chokra Jawan Re Jawan Re."

The hall was filled with laughter and cheers as friends and family joined in the celebration.

Amidst the crowd, Shristi appeared from behind, her infectious energy captivating everyone. With a mischievous grin, she began to mimic the lyrics of

"Arey chooza choo-choo karta hai...Galiyon aur chaubaro mein Phenka-phaaki karta phire tu toh apne yaaron mein".

Her eyes sparkled as she playfully sang, directing her gaze towards Krish, who couldn't help but join in the fun.

"Aye! ," He called out, and he mirrored her moves, adding his own twist to the lyrics, "Phenka-phaaki kuchh nahin sach baat jo bayaan ki Dahaad hai jawaan ki mardangi mastaan ki~".

Their playful banter added a new level of enjoyment to the evening, making it a memorable night for everyone present.

From behind, Darsh joined in and started mimicking the song, "Hoye,Ab tu bhi maan le, naino ke jaam de, Are aaja re are aaja re are aaja re aaja."

His goofy dance moves drew laughter from the crowd, and soon Akul joined too mimicking the lyrics with a duppata on his head acting like a woman.

"Huaa chokra jawaan re jawaan re jawaan re" . He mimicked adding to the fun with his own hilarious gestures.

As Anshu joining them, mimicking the lyrics too,

"Haan mere munna baat sun na, yeh jawaani nahi koi khilona," while playfully swaying to the beats.

She was accompanied by others who cheered them on, adding to the joyous atmosphere of the Sangeet night.

Their impromptu performance brought smiles to everyone's faces, enhancing the celebration and making it a truly memorable evening for all.

After the energetic Sangeet performance, Akul, Darsh, Shruti, Ayesha, Krish, and their cousins were feeling pleasantly exhausted from their spirited dancing.

They decided to take a breather and headed over to the mehndi area, where the bride and groom were seated, surrounded by close family and friends.

The room was adorned with colorful decorations and soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The bride, her hands adorned with intricate mehndi designs, looked radiant as she sat beside the groom, who was patiently getting his hands decorated as well.

A talented mehndi artist delicately applied henna paste, creating beautiful patterns that symbolized love, prosperity, and the upcoming union.

Akul and Darsh, still brimming with energy from the dance floor, approached the bride and groom with smiles on their faces.

They congratulated them warmly, marveling at the detailed mehndi designs and sharing light-hearted anecdotes from the evening's festivities.

Shruti and Ayesha joined in, admiring the intricate artwork and expressing their excitement for the wedding day ahead.

Krish and the cousins gathered around, chatting animatedly and reliving the fun moments from the Sangeet performance.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation, as everyone cherished this intimate moment with the soon-to-be-wed couple amidst the serene ambiance of the mehndi ceremony.

As the Sangeet performance came to an end, Manisha and Aryan settled down, their hands adorned with intricate mehndi designs applied by the skilled stylist.

Ayesha joined them, surrounded by her cousins who were still buzzing with excitement from the dance.

After a while, Ayesha gracefully rose from her seat, her hands adorned with a simple yet elegant mehndi design, and made her way towards where her parents were seated, beckoning her over.

Moments later, feeling a sudden pang of thirst, she settled into a nearby chair, attempting to reach for a bottle on the table.

Frustrated by the fresh mehndi on her hands, she glanced around, noticing her cousins engrossed in their own conversations - Anshu delicately applying mehndi to Suhani while Ashish and Duggu were nowhere in sight.

"Here," a voice said suddenly. Ayesha looked up and saw Vihaan standing nearby, holding out a bottle towards her. "Paani aapko peena hai na, lijiye," he offered .

She hesitated, looking around cautiously. "Kisi ne dekh liya toh kya kahega," she whispered, aware of her relatives' gossiping tendencies.

Vihaan chuckled softly, his tone teasing. "Aap kabse dusro kya sochenge uske baare mein sochne lagi?" he teased gently.

"Koi kuch nahi kahega. I'm just helping you drink water, right?"He said and Ayesha glared at him playfully.

Just as Ayesha was about to accept to drunk water from the bottle from Vihaan's outstretched hand, a familiar voice rang out,

"Sugar!" It was Ashish, using the affectionate nickname he had given her.

Vihaan felt a pang of jealousy shoot through him as Ashish approached, casually taking the bottle from Vihaan's hand without acknowledging him directly.

"Thanks?" Ashish said, his attention focused solely on Ayesha.

"Ashu," Ayesha said warmly, turning to introduce Vihaan, "This is Vihaan ji."

"Thanks, Vihaan," Ashish said nonchalantly, still not fully registering Vihaan's presence.

Vihaan nodded, a tight smile on his face. He couldn't shake off the feeling of jealousy that Ashish had stirred within him.

Vihaan's jaw clenched involuntarily as he watched Ashish interact with Ayesha, feeling the sting of being overshadowed in Ayesha's eyes.

He fought hard to suppress his rising anger, not wanting to cause a scene at his sister's wedding.

He glanced away, taking a deep breath to compose himself. As the festivities continued around him, Vihaan struggled with conflicting emotions - admiration for Ayesha's happiness and frustration at not being able to express his feelings more openly.

Author Pov Ended

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ज़ुबाँ है फ़ीकी शाम से
हुई ना तोसे बात भी
बिना मैं तेरे बेमज़ा
हुआ हूँ देखो आज भी

करूँ मैं ये गुज़ारिशें (ਮਿੱਠੀ-ਮਿੱਠੀ)
मुहब्बतों का मोल दे (ਮਿੱਠੀ-ਮਿੱਠੀ)
नींदों में मेरी ख़ाब का (ਮਿੱਠੀ-ਮਿੱਠੀ)
ज़रा सा मीठा घोल दे

✷

Target iss not completed still I 'm updating but on Thursday if the target is not completed I will not update!!

Vote Target 25+
Comment Target 10+

Ayesha POV

"You?" I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper, my eyes locked on his.

Vihaan ji leaned closer, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "So... you were teasing me before, weren't you?" His tone was teasing, but there was a warmth in his eyes that made my cheeks flush.

I bit my lip nervously, feeling the weight of his gaze. "I-I..." I stumbled over my words, unsure how to respond. His closeness was intoxicating, overwhelming my senses.

"Because," Vihaan ji continued softly, his hand brushing against mine on the couch, "if you were, I have to admit, you're very good at it."

His touch sent a jolt through me, and I could feel my pulse quicken even more. "I..." I began, my voice barely audible now, unsure of where this was leading but unable to tear my gaze away from him

"Hn..hn... I'm listening," Vihaan ji said, his voice low and warm, sending a wave of nerves through me.

God, why is he so close to me? I could practically feel the heat radiating from his body, and my heart was beating so loudly in my chest that I was sure he could hear it too.

I swallowed hard, trying to find the right words. "I..." I started, but my voice caught in my throat. His proximity was unnerving yet strangely exhilarating.

Vihaan ji's eyes softened, and he gently brushed a strand of hair away from my face. "You don't have to say anything if you're not ready," he murmured, his thumb tracing circles on the back of my hand where his fingers still lingered.

His touch was electric, sending tingles down my spine. "I-I was," I finally managed to whisper, meeting his gaze with a mix of uncertainty and longing.

Vihaan ji's smirk softened into a gentle smile. "Good," he replied softly, his voice filled with warmth and understanding. "Because I think I was teasing you too."

My cheeks burned as his words sunk in, and I couldn't help but smile back shyly. The tension that had filled the air seemed to dissipate, replaced by a new and fragile connection between us.

"Ayesha?" Ashish's voice shattered the moment, jolting me back to reality. Panic surged through me as I instinctively grabbed Vihaan ji's collar, pulling him off balance.

We tumbled awkwardly, crashing between the couch and the table.I ended up sprawled on top of him, my heart racing not just from the fall but from the sudden closeness.

Vihaan ji let out a hiss of surprise as our bodies collided, the unexpectedness of the situation causing us both to freeze in place.

Vihaan ji's warm breath tickled my ear as he whispered urgently, "Shh... If your bestfriend sees us like this, he'll get the wrong idea." His arms instinctively wrapped around me to shield me from view, though his touch only intensified the fluttering in my chest.

I could feel the tension in his muscles as he held me close, his heartbeat echoing mine in the confined space between the couch and the table.

I glanced up at him, catching a glimpse of concern mixed with amusement in his eyes.

"I-I'm sorry," I stammered, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment as I realized how awkward the situation must look. "I didn't mean to..."

Vihaan ji cut me off with a soft chuckle, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's okay," he reassured me, his lips brushing against my ear sending a shiver down my spine. "Just stay quiet for a moment."

I nodded silently, trying to calm my racing heart as Ashish's voice grew louder, calling out for me. Vihaan ji held me securely, shielding me from view and ensuring we remained unnoticed.

"Ayesha?" Ashish called out again, footsteps approaching closer. My heart sank with each passing moment, fearing what he might think if he found us in such a compromising position.

Vihaan ji pressed a finger to his lips, urging me to remain silent as he mouthed, "Trust me." His touch was reassuring, calming the whirlwind of emotions inside me despite the awkwardness of our predicament.

I nodded again, squeezing his hand in gratitude as Ashish's footsteps receded into the distance. Relief washed over me, mingled with a newfound sense of closeness to Vihaan ji that left me both bewildered and exhilarated.

As the tension eased, Vihaan ji gently helped me up, his eyes meeting mine with a mixture of amusement and tenderness. "Looks like we dodged a bullet there," he remarked with a crooked smile, his thumb brushing against my cheek.

I couldn't help but laugh softly, feeling a surge of affection for him. "Thank you," I whispered, grateful for his quick thinking and the unexpected intimacy of our shared moment.

Vihaan ji's smile widened, his gaze holding mine in a silent understanding that spoke volumes. "Anytime," he replied softly, his voice filled with a warmth that melted away any remaining unease.

As we untangled ourselves from the awkward position, I couldn't shake the feeling that this unexpected encounter had changed something between us, feeling my cheeks flush with embarrassment, I left for the dining area before he could tease me any further.

The way he always knew how to push my buttons both frustrated and amused me. As I walked away, I could hear his laughter echoing behind me, and it only made my heart race faster. What was it about him that made every interaction so intense?

"Tum yaha ho ! Kabse Main tumse dhundh raha hun," Ashish said as I turned towards him.

"Bhaisahab, ab hum kya bole isko," I thought, unsure how to respond.

"She was with me," someone said suddenly. I turned and saw Vihaan ji standing there.

"Aaj yeh mujhe marwa denge," I thought anxiously, feeling trapped.

"I was sending her the Sangeet practice videos so she doesn't need to spy on us," He said, eyeing me with a mischievous smile. His teasing only intensified the mix of emotions swirling inside me.

Time Skip After Sangeet

I was sitting on the swing with Shristi in the backyard garden, exhausted after the Sangeet ceremony.

Shristi wanted to talk about Krish Bhaiya, how he danced with her and kept her company while I was busy with the arrangements.

I sat on the swing, gently swaying back and forth, feeling the fatigue of the day settling in our limbs.

Shristi, sprawled comfortably on the grass nearby, looked over with a playful grin.

"Huhhh, main toh thak gayi," I sighed.

"Mai bhi," Shristi replied with a sympathetic nod.

"Lekin aaj ka din mujhe yaad rahega," Shristi said dreamily, clasping her hands together as she gazed off, lost in thoughts of Krish Bhai.

I chuckled softly. "Ha ha, mereko mera jija mil gaya finally itne saalon baad."

"Toh mujhe mere jija ji kab mil rahe hai?" Shristi teased, wiggling her eyebrows mischievously.

I shrugged nonchalantly. "I haven't found anyone yet."

"Oh really?" Shristi teased back, a knowing glint in her eyes. "I know you like Vihaan."

My eyes widened in surprise. "Shhh, kya bol rahi hai! Koi sun lega na toh-"

"Toh kya? Kuch nahi hoga, tere aur Vihaan ki shaadi ho jayegi, happy ending," She declared confidently.

"Ewww, I don't like him," Ayesha protested, wrinkling her nose.

"Ha ha, mujhe sab pata hai," Shristi grinned knowingly.

I couldn't help but smile at her teasing.

"Tune mujhe akele chor diya tha," Shristi said with a playful pout.

"I didn't leave you; you were just too busy. I had to make sure everything was running smoothly, and with Mom and Dad entertaining the guests, it was all on me," I replied, trying to explain.

"Okay, spill it. Did Krish Bhaiya says anything?" I asked eagerly, changing the subject.

Before Shristi could respond, someone interrupted from behind.

We turned to see Krish standing there, and my heart skipped a beat. "Oh no," I muttered under my breath.

Krish glanced at both of us with a knowing smile. "What's going on here?" he asked teasingly.

Shristi looked at me, clearly embarrassed. "Um, nothing, just... girl talk," she stammered.

Krish raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. Vihaan ji was standing beside him, deeply engrossed in a phone call, oblivious to our conversation.

"Hey Ayesha, send me the photos that you took of us while dancing," Krish Bhai said suddenly.

"I didn't," I replied nervously.

His brows crashed together in confusion. "But I told you, didn't I?"

"Wait, yeah, Ashu took it. I will ask him to send it to you," I quickly offered, trying to smooth over the misunderstanding.

As I spoke, my gaze unintentionally drifted to Vihaan ji.

I saw him abruptly cut his phone call and look directly towards me. Caught off guard, I quickly looked away, hoping he hadn't noticed my nervousness.

But from the intensity in his gaze, I feared he might have.

As Krish Bhai sat on the grass beside Shristi with a little distance between them, I couldn't help but feel amused at their banter.

"I want to eat something!" I exclaimed excitedly. "Let's go somewhere. We should call everyone too."

"We're already here," Darsh said, arriving with everyone else.

I glanced at Vihaan ji, who was still standing apart from the group.

Shruti chimed in, "We were planning that only."

I made an 'o' face. "But what should we eat?" I asked playfully.

"Ice cream!" Duggu suggested enthusiastically.

"Yes!" Everyone nodded in agreement.

"No," Vihaan ji interjected firmly.

I quickly got up from the swing, feeling a bit irritated. "Aapse koi puch nhi rha," I retorted, looking pointedly at him.

"Mai bta rha hu," Vihaan ji insisted.

"Apke kehne se thodi na hoga," I replied defiantly.

"Mere kehne se kuch log toh apne kamre mai wapas chale he jayenge," Vihaan ji remarked, eyeing Shruti, Akul, and Darsh.

"Bhai, please," Shruti pleaded.

"It's not safe to drive at this time," Vihaan ji continued, unmoved.

Krish couldn't resist teasing. "Vihaan, are you afraid of a little nighttime adventure?"

He remained firm, ignoring the taunt.

Darsh and Shruti joined in, their voices pleading. "Broo,please. We promise to be careful."

He hesitated, still uncertain.

Feeling a pang of frustration, I spoke softly, "Please, Vihaan ji."

After a moment's silence, He finally relented, his expression softening. "Okay, but only if everyone promises to stay together and drive safely."

Relief washed over everyone as we made plans to head out, grateful that Vihaan ji had finally agreed.

"We will be back just after eating ice cream," Vihaan ji announced firmly.

"Wait, let me call Ashu," I said quickly.

I dialed Ashu's number, but as I spoke, I sensed someone's intense gaze on me.

I glanced around and found Vihaan ji looking at me with a cold, intense expression. What have I done now? I wondered anxiously.

Soon, Ashu picked up the phone.

"Ashu , ice cream khane hum sb ja rhe hai tu bhi aaja, sab ready hai," I said excitedly.

"Sorry yaar, not feeling well. I have a terrible headache," Ashu replied apologetically.

I sighed disappointedly. "Okay, take care then."

"What happened?" Suhani asked gently.

"Ashu has a headache, so he can't join us," I explained.

Krish Bhaiya nodded understandingly. "It's okay. We'll manage. Let's go."

We hurriedly returned from our room after grabbing our essentials, and Krish bhaiya and Vihaan ji were already waiting with their cars.

As we started getting into the cars, I was about to sit beside Krish bhaiya when someone tapped me on the back.

I turned and saw Shristi, who gave me a sheepish smile.

"Oh, yaad aaya ja ja, tera jagah hai wo," I teased lightly.

I quickly moved to sit in the back.

"Seat is full," Duggu remarked.

I made a disappointed face and glanced towards Vihaan ji's car, where everyone was already seated in the back too.

"You can sit ahead too, di," Anshu suggested.

Before I could respond, Darsh interjected, "No, we need to make space here only. Vihaan Bhai is reserving that seat for his future wife. Wo toh mujhe bhi baithne nhi dete"

I looked over at Vihaan ji and thought to myself, "That's cute .."

Vihaan ji then said, "You can sit here," in a casual tone, though his voice still carried a cold edge, I noticed.

Darsh's jaw dropped at Vihaan ji's unexpected offer, and Anshu was grinning like an idiot.

Vihaan Pov:

As she sat beside me in the car, her chocolate fragrance enveloped me completely, calming my nerves but simultaneously quickening my heartbeat.

It was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions-I couldn't quite pinpoint what I was feeling.

Glancing over, I caught her looking at me too, and in a rush of emotions, I quickly averted my gaze, unsure of how to process the intensity of the moment.

Behind us, my cousins and her engaged in lively chatter, occasionally glancing at their phones or out the window, oblivious to the orchestrated surprise I had planned for her.

We arrived at the ice cream parlor, and my cousins joked about its seemingly coincidental late-night opening.

Little did they know, hours earlier,

I had arranged for it to open just for us, pulling strings through my secretary to make this open It was now well past 11:30 pm, but the night was young, and the air was filled with anticipation.

•°•°•°•°°•°°•°•°•°°•°°•°•°•°°•°°•°•°•°°•°°•°•°•°°•°

I get it, this chapter might not be the most thrilling or romantic, but I need a bit more motivation from you all to really shine.

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जहनसीब जहनसीब
तुझे चाहूं बेताहाशा जहनसीब
मेरे क़रीब मेरे हबीब
तुझे चाहूं बेताहाशा जहनसीब
तेरे संग बीते हर लम्हे पे

✷

Author Pov

As they entered the ice cream parlour, a wave of sweet, creamy aromas enveloped them.

"I want this, this, and this!" Anshu exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as she pointed excitedly at the various flavors.

Darsh chuckled, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Chaho toh pure shop ko he kharid lo."

"If you're willing to pay, then I will," Anshu replied with a playful, lipped smile.

Darsh's face softened, a shy grin spreading as he spoke, "Mai toh sirf aisa apne patni ke liye he karunga...bolo banoge meri wife?"

Standing beside Anshu, Duggu leaned toward Shruti. "Tumhe konsa flavour pasand hai?"

"Hajmola flavour," Shruti replied nonchalantly and moved closer to Vihaan.

Duggu blinked in confusion. "Ha-Hajmola flavour?"

Suhani burst into laughter. "Jaa ab ja Hajmola flavour kharid ke lekar aa jaa."

Duggu pouted, turning to his sister. "Di yaar," he whined, making everyone around laugh even more.

Meanwhile, Ayesha and Shristi were already busy choosing their ice cream.

Time skip

Soon, everyone had selected their ice cream, and Vihaan paid for them.

Shristi, after a lot of thinking, chose Mint Choco. Shruti and Duggu both opted for Butterscotch. Darsh and Akul picked Strawberry, while Anshu choose Blue Moon. Suhani went for Black Currant, and Krish decided on Chocolate.

But Ayesha was still choosing her ice cream. Vihaan observed Ayesha as she stood, indecisive, before the array of ice cream flavors.

Her lips formed a slight pout, a habitual gesture when she was deep in thought.

The soft lighting of the parlour accentuated her features, making her stand out amidst the bustling crowd.

He noticed the way her long lashes framed her expressive eyes, which darted from one flavor to another.

Her smooth skin had a natural glow, and as she bit her lower lip in contemplation.

Vihaan's gaze was drawn to the small mole just on the right corner of her lips .

This tiny detail, often overlooked by others, seemed to add a unique charm to her already captivating face.

Ayesha's white oversized tee hung loosely over her slender frame, contrasting perfectly with her green cargos.

The casual outfit did nothing to hide her natural beauty; instead, it emphasized her effortless grace.

Vihaan couldn't help but smile, appreciating these small, intimate details that made her who she was.

As Vihaan noticed everyone already busy eating their ice cream and chattering about something, he walked towards Ayesha and bent a little, whispering.

"Do you need any help, Ayesha Ji?" He asked teasingly, a slight smirk on his face.

Ayesha looked up, startled at first, but then look at him saying . "Oh, Aap?," she said, rolling her eyes.

"It's just so hard to choose. Everything looks so good!"She said.

Vihaan chuckled softly. "Well, how about I help you decide?" He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"What if we share? That way, you can try two flavors instead of one."

Ayesha's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "That's a great idea!" she exclaimed, her indecision melting away.

"Let's get Mango and Cookies and Cream."

Vihaan grinned, nodding in agreement. "Perfect choice," he said, heading to the counter to place their order.

As they returned to the group, Ayesha handed Vihaan a spoon, their fingers brushing briefly.

"Thanks for the help," she said, her voice warm with gratitude.

Vihaan's face softened into a genuine smile. "Anytime, Ayesha Ji," he replied, enjoying the shared moment as they dug into their ice cream.

As they came back to their cars, Vihaan sat inside and was wearing his seat belt. Shruti and Anshu now sat at the back along with Akul.

Ayesha, standing while holding her ice cream and Vihaan's, soon settled beside him.

"Aap kaise khayenge ice cream?" Ayesha asked, holding out his ice cream.

"Ghar pohoch kar kha lunga," Vihaan replied absentmindedly, his eyes lingering on her as he admired her.

Then Shruti chimed in. "Bhai, ghar jate jate melt ho jayega ice cream."

Vihaan looked at her and was about to respond when Ayesha interjected. "Inko tum khila do. We will swap seats. Shruti, you can sit here."

"But I'm eating my ice cream na... Ek kaam karo, aap hi khila do inhe. Waise bhi aap inke bagal mein hi baithe ho na. Phir abhi seat change karo, yeh karo, woh karo, time waste hoga and it's already past 12. Right, bhaiya?" Shruti said.

Vihaan couldn't help but smile at Shruti's practical suggestion. He turned to Ayesha, raising an eyebrow.

Ayesha hesitated for a moment, then shrugged. "Alright, Vihaan Ji," she said.

"But only because it's late and we don't want melted ice cream."

As Ayesha began feeding him the ice cream, the car was filled with playful banter and laughter.

Shruti and Akul teased Vihaan mercilessly,while Anshu giggled at the scene unfolding before them.

"Careful," Vihaan said between bites, his tone light. "Don't drop any on my shirt."

Ayesha rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress her grin. "Don't worry, Vihaan Ji. I've got this."

As they drove home, the night air was filled with the sweet scent of ice cream and the warmth of shared moments.

Vihaan savored each spoonful, not just of the ice cream, but of the connection he felt with Ayesha .

As they reached home, Shruti instantly spilled the story to Darsh, who was waiting at the door. Darsh's eyes lit up with mischief as he took in the scene.

"Toh, bhaiya, ice cream feeding session chal raha tha?" Darsh teased, a wide grin spreading across his face.

Vihaan gave him a stern look, his voice calm but firm. "Shut up."

Krish chuckled, enjoying his bestfriend reaction. "Arre bhai, itni bhi kya serious baat hai? Ice cream hi toh tha."

Just then, Darsh, quietly, nudged Krish with a smirk. "bhaiya aisa na boliyee nahi toh bhaiya ka gussa dekha hai na?"

Krish laughed but whispered back to Darsh, "Isse toh chup karwa diya, mujhe kaise karwayega?"

Vihaan shot them both a look that immediately silenced their whispers.

The playful banter hung in the air as they all headed inside, the night ending with a sense of closeness and shared laughter.

Ayesha's POV

As we all dispersed to our rooms, I walked alongside Shristi, who was already half-dozing from the day's events.

We approached my parents' room, intending to pass by quietly, when I heard their voices.

At first, it was unclear whether they were talking or arguing, but then I caught snippets of their conversation, and my name.

"I will talk to my daughter; she will definitely say yes," Papa's voice affirmed.

Confusion knitted my brows. What were they discussing? Shristi looked at me with a puzzled expression, mirroring my own uncertainty.

"Aap samajh nahi rahe, agar aap chahenge toh wo 'ha' keh degi!" Mumma insisted.

"Ashish is such a good boy, and his parents are coming back tomorrow. I don't think we'll find a better match than Ashish. They are best friends; they'll understand each other the most," Papa reasoned.

My heart sank as realization dawned on me. They were discussing my marriage. Why now? Why so suddenly? Shristi's shock mirrored my own as we exchanged glances, trying to process the gravity of the situation.

Then I heard Mumma's voice, interjecting with conviction, "You're not understanding anything, Dhirendra."

"He's my friend. How can I deny this proposal?" Papa's voice held firm.

"You're only thinking about yourself. Why don't you ask your daughter?" Mumma retorted, her tone tinged with frustration.

"She's my daughter. She will never refuse me. I know her; I'll talk to her about this tomorrow," Papa assured confidently.

"What if she has someone in her life?" Mumma posed the question delicately.

"If she had someone, she would have already told us, like Aryan did. But I don't think she does," Papa replied matter-of-factly.

"You can't decide that," Mumma countered firmly.

"Darling, it's late. Let's discuss this tomorrow, okay?" Papa suggested, attempting to diffuse the tension.

My mind raced with conflicting emotions. How could they decide my future like this, without even consulting me? So many questions churned inside me, leaving me overwhelmed and uncertain about the path ahead.

The night passed fitfully for me, sleep eluding my restless mind. In the morning, I woke up with a heavy heart, knowing that today would bring crucial discussions about my future.

I walked towards the dining area, my heart heavy with the weight of last night's revelations.

Thoughts raced through my mind, and I couldn't shake the worry and uncertainty that plagued me.

"Good morning, Sugarr," Ashu's voice interrupted my thoughts, his hand gently resting on my shoulder.

I managed a weak smile, realizing he likely didn't know about the turmoil brewing within me.

I took my seat beside Shristi and Darsh feeling their supportive presence but unable to fully engage in the morning chatter.

"Tomorrow is the wedding; I hope everything is prepared," Dadi's voice cut through the conversations, drawing everyone's attention.

"Yes, everything is ready, Dadi," Akul reassured, the usual excitement of wedding preparations filling the air.

Amidst the lively discussions, I felt Vihaan ji's gaze on me. I met his eyes briefly, feeling a pang of guilt and confusion.

"Aap theek ho, di?" Darsh's concerned voice broke through my thoughts. I managed a weak smile, my appetite vanishing.

Suddenly, everyone's attention turned towards me. "Kya hua, beta? Kuch hua hai kya?" Aunty asked, concern etched on her face.

"Nahi, aunty, just tired," I replied quickly, not wanting to delve into the real reason behind my distress.

After breakfast, I wandered towards the garden area, seeking solace amidst the blooming flowers and serene surroundings.

Suddenly, a strong hand grabbed mine from behind, pulling me towards him. My eyes widened in surprise as I found Vihaan ji standing before me.

"Are you sick?" he asked softly, his hand moving to my forehead in concern.

"Maybe because of the extra ice cream you requested last night," he teased gently, his touch still lingering on my wrist.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked at him, overwhelmed by my emotions.

"Leave my hand," I managed to whisper, my emotions threatening to spill over.

He hesitated for a moment, confusion crossing his features. "Huh?" he responded softly.

"Mera haath chhodiye," I pleaded, needing space to sort through my thoughts and feelings.

He released my hand immediately, his expression turning serious. "Have I done something wrong?" he asked quietly, his eyes searching mine for answers.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°°•°•°•°•°•°•°°•°•°•°•°•°•°°•°•°•°

Hey everyone, Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be able to post on Monday.

I'll do my best to post on Thursday instead.

Starting next Monday, I'll get back to my regular posting schedule. Please forgive me for any inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding!

Do vote and Follow me .

सौदा है दिल का ये, तू कर भी ले
मेरा जहाँ बाँहों में तू भर भी ले
सौदे में दे क़सम, क़सम भी ले
आ के तू निगाहों में सँवर भी ले

सौदा उड़ानों का है या आसमानों का है
ले-ले उड़ानें मेरी, ले मेरे पर भी ले

✷

Vihaan's POV

I watched Ayesha walk away, her figure retreating towards the garden. There was something different about her today, something that gnawed at the back of my mind.

I couldn't ignore it, no matter how much I wanted to. With a sigh, I decided to follow her, keeping a few paces behind.

She sat down on a bench, her shoulders slumped, eyes lost in thought. I approached her quietly, my footsteps barely audible on the soft grass.

"Ayesha Ji," I called out, my voice neutral. She looked up, startled, then quickly composed herself.

"Hmm?" she asked, trying to sound casual but failing to mask the tension in her voice.

"You're acting strange," I stated bluntly, my gaze unwavering. "Kya hua hai hume bataiye.."

She shook her head, forcing a smile. "It's nothing. Just tired."

"Don't lie to me," I said, my voice hardening. "You're terrible at it."

Her facade crumbled, and she sighed, looking away. "It's complicated," she murmured.

"Life usually is," I replied coldly. "But keeping things bottled up won't help."

She remained silent, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. I waited, giving her the space to speak if she wanted to.

Finally, she looked at me, her eyes searching mine. "Why do you care?" she asked softly, almost as if she didn't believe it herself.

The question caught me off guard. Why did I care? I didn't have an answer. Instead, I fell back on the familiar wall I had built around myself.

"I don't," I replied curtly. "But you're clearly distracted, and that affects everyone around you. Fix whatever is bothering you."

Her eyes widened slightly at my harsh tone, but she nodded. "I'll try," she whispered.

"Good," I said, turning away. "Let's get back inside. Everyone's waiting."

As we walked back, the tension between us was palpable. I couldn't understand why seeing her like this affected me so much. I didn't want to care. I couldn't care. But the nagging feeling wouldn't go away.

We reached the living room, and I glanced at her one last time. "Whatever it is, handle it," I said, my voice devoid of emotion.

She nodded again, a small, almost imperceptible smile on her lips. "Thank you, Vihaan Ji," she said quietly.

I didn't respond, merely walking away. Emotions were a weakness, and I had no intention of letting them interfere with my life.

But as I walked away, I couldn't help but feel a strange, unsettling pull in my chest. Something I couldn't quite name, and something I wasn't ready to face.

As I walked away from her, I couldn't shake the unease that settled in my chest. Her question lingered in my mind.

"Why do you care?" It echoed, making me question my own feelings. I had always prided myself on being detached, unaffected by emotions.

But She was different. She stirred something within me, something I wasn't ready to confront.

I entered the bustling house, filled with the lively chatter of family members and the vibrant decorations for the upcoming wedding.

The sound of laughter and music filled the air, but my mind was elsewhere.

As I walked into the living room, I saw Darsh and Krish setting up the sound system. The moment I stepped in, the speakers blared to life with the upbeat rhythm of "Baby Ko Base Pasand Hai."

Darsh turned to me, a mischievous grin on his face. "Vihaan Bhai, perfect timing! Come help us with this."

I rolled my eyes but joined them, trying to distract myself from the thoughts swirling in my head.

The song's energetic beat filled the room, and soon enough, everyone was tapping their feet and swaying to the music.

The decorations were vibrant, with marigold garlands draped everywhere and colorful lanterns hanging from the ceiling.

The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the aromas of delicious food being prepared in the kitchen. It was a scene of joy and celebration, but my mind kept drifting back to her.

Vihaan POV Ended

Ayesha's POV

I watched him walk away, his cold demeanor cutting deeper than I cared to admit. Why did he have to be so indifferent?

The knot in my stomach tightened, but I pushed it aside. There was no point dwelling on it now.

I walked back into the house, where the preparations for the wedding were in full swing.

The lively music, the chatter of relatives, and the vibrant decorations momentarily lifted my spirits. The song "Baby Ko Base Pasand Hai" started playing, and a smile tugged at my lips despite everything.

Shristi and Anshu were in the middle of the living room, attempting some dance moves. They saw me and immediately pulled me into their impromptu dance session.

"Bhai nachoo". Anshu exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.

I let myself get swept up in the moment, dancing and laughing with them.

The decorations around us were stunning, with marigold garlands, fairy lights, and colorful drapes transforming the space into a festive wonderland.

The wedding planners had done an incredible job, and the house looked magical.

As the song played, we danced and twirled, losing ourselves in the music.

I glanced around and saw Vihaan ji , standing on the sidelines, watching us with an unreadable expression.

For a brief moment, our eyes met, and I felt a jolt of something I couldn't quite name.

But then, the moment was gone. He turned away, and I focused on the dance, on the laughter, on the joy of the celebration.

Yet, a part of me couldn't help but wonder what lay behind his cold exterior. Did he really not care? Or was there something more he was hiding, just as I was?

The song ended, and we collapsed onto the couches, breathless and laughing. Shristi handed me a glass of water, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Did you see Vihaan watching us? I think he enjoyed the show," she whispered teasingly.

I forced a smile, trying to hide the turmoil inside. "Maybe," I replied, taking a sip of water.

"Don't worry about the wedding thing we still have time" Shristi said, patting my shoulder. "Just focus on having fun. It's your brother's wedding, after all!"

I nodded, determined to follow her advice. But as the preparations continued and the celebrations grew louder, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was shifting between Vihaan and me. Something that neither of us was ready to face.

Ayesha POV Ended

Author Pov

After dancing , Ayesha made her way back to her room, tired but happy. As she passed by the back garden, she heard faint whispers and giggles.

Curiosity piqued, she tiptoed closer, peering through the foliage.

"There shouldn't be anyone here," Ayesha muttered to herself, eyebrows raised. "All the decorations are in the front garden."

Through a gap in the bushes, Ayesha's eyes widened as she spotted Aryan and Manisha, stealing a quiet moment together despite their grandmother's strict warnings.

"Ohooo," Ayesha couldn't help but tease, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Dadi ke mana karne ke bawajood, aap dono mil rhe ho."

Aryan and Manisha jumped apart, guilt written all over their faces as they realized they had been caught.

Ayesha leaned against a nearby tree, folding her arms with mock seriousness.

"Aryan bhai, Manisha bhabhi," Ayesha began, her tone faux-serious, "I hope you have a good explanation for this clandestine meeting."

Aryan cleared his throat, trying to compose himself. "Uh, Ayesha, it's not what you think..."

"Really?" Ayesha raised an eyebrow, unable to contain her amusement.

"Because it looks like you two were enjoying some alone time away from Dadi's eagle eyes."

Manisha blushed furiously, her cheeks matching the bright hues of her pink attire.

"Ayesha, please don't tell anyone. We'll be more careful, I promise."

Ayesha pretended to ponder for a moment, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, I don't know..."

Aryan interrupted, a hint of desperation in his voice. "Ayesha, I'll do anything. Just don't tell Dadi."

A mischievous glint sparkled in Ayesha's eyes. "Anything, huh? How about the latest bike model that just came out?"

Aryan sighed, knowing he was cornered. "Fine, I'll get you the new Yamaha R15 if you keep quiet."

"Deal," Ayesha grinned triumphantly, enjoying her brother's discomfort. "But remember, one word to Dadi and..."

Before Aryan could respond, a stern voice cut through the night air. "You both!"

All three turned to see their Dadi standing at the garden entrance, her expression a mixture of surprise and disapproval.

"Dadi!" Aryan stammered, his face turning pale. "We were just..."

Dadi raised an eyebrow, her gaze shifting from Aryan to Manisha and then to Ayesha, who tried to look innocent despite her guilty pleasure.

"Ayesha beta," Dadi began, her voice tinged with amusement, "what are you doing here?"

Ayesha sighed dramatically, feigning innocence. "Just taking a walk, Dadi. Nothing suspicious."

Dadi chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Come on, all of you. It's late. Let's go inside."

As they walked back towards the house, Ayesha couldn't resist teasing Aryan one last time.

"By the way, bhai," she whispered, a mischievous twinkle in her eye, "don't forget about our deal. The Yamaha R15, remember?"

Aryan groaned good-naturedly, realizing he had been outsmarted by his younger sister once again. As they entered .

Ayesha couldn't help but feel a warm satisfaction at having preserved the family secret while securing a new ride for herself-all in a night's work at a chaotic Indian wedding.

As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the wedding venue, Ayesha decided to take a short break from the bustling preparations.

She headed towards the quieter side of the garden, hoping to find a moment of peace amidst the chaos.

As she walked, she noticed a small crowd gathered near the edge of the lawn, where a group of kids were excitedly watching something.

Curious, Ayesha approached the group and saw Anshu and Darsh crouched down, arguing over a tangled string of fairy lights.

The kids were chattering and offering unhelpful suggestions, making the task even more difficult.

"Anshu, Darsh, kya kar rahe ho tum dono?" Ayesha called out, laughing at the sight of them bickering.

Anshu looked up, exasperated. "Di, Darsh ko lights untangle karni nahi aati! He's making it worse."

Darsh grinned, unfazed. "Oh come on, Anshu. You know you like having me around, even if it's just to argue with me."

Anshu rolled her eyes. "In your dreams, Darsh."

Ayesha chuckled and knelt down beside them. "Alright, let me help. But you two need to stop fighting for at least five minutes."

As they worked together to untangle the lights, Darsh kept sneaking playful glances at Anshu.

"So, Anshu, you never told me how you're enjoying the wedding preparations. Having fun?"

Anshu huffed. "Fun? With you around? It's a miracle I haven't strangled you with these lights."

Darsh laughed. "You wound me. But I know you secretly enjoy our banter."

Anshu shot him a glare. "Keep dreaming, Darsh."

Ayesha shook her head, amused by their antics. "Alright, Nalayako , time to focus. We need these lights up.

With Ayesha's help, they finally managed to untangle the lights and began hanging them around the garden.

Anshu and Darsh continued their playful bickering, but Ayesha noticed a spark in their eyes that hinted at something more.

Just as they finished, Ayesha's phone buzzed. She pulled it out and saw a message from Vihaan: "Need your help with something. Meet me by the front gate."

"Guys, I'll be back. Try not to kill each other while I'm gone," Ayesha said, leaving Anshu and Darsh to finish hanging the lights.

Anshu crossed her arms, glaring at Darsh. "You heard her. No funny business."

Darsh raised his hands in mock surrender. "Relax, Anshu. I'm here to help, not cause trouble. But if you insist, I can be your knight in shining armor."

Anshu snorted. "More like a jester in tin foil."

Meanwhile, Ayesha made her way to the front gate, wondering what Vihaan needed. When she arrived, she found Vihaan standing next to a large crate.

"Hm..kahiye" she asked, curious.

Vihaan said. "It's a surprise for Aryan and Manisha. I ordered some special decorations and gifts, but I need help setting them up."

Ayesha's eyes lit up. "That sounds amazing! What do you need me to do?"

Together, they opened the crate and began unpacking the contents. There were beautifully crafted lanterns, intricate floral arrangements, and personalized gifts for the couple.

Ayesha felt a surge of excitement as she imagined the look on Aryan and Manisha's faces when they saw everything.

Back in the garden, Anshu and Darsh had just finished hanging the last of the lights. Anshu stepped back to admire their work. "Not bad, I guess."

Darsh smirked. "Admit it, we make a great team."

Anshu gave him a sidelong glance. "Yeah, sure. Just don't let it go to your head."

As they stood there, catching their breath, Darsh leaned in slightly. "You know, Anshu, I think this is the first time we've actually worked together without a major disaster."

Anshu laughed. "Don't jinx it, Darsh."

Darsh's eyes twinkled. "Maybe we should team up more often. We might actually accomplish something."

Anshu raised an eyebrow. "Only if you promise to stop flirting."

Darsh grinned. "No can do. Flirting is part of my charm."

Anshu rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "You're impossible."

Just then, Ayesha returned with Vihaan, who was carrying some of the decorations from the crate.

"Anshu, Darsh, we need your help setting these up. Think you can manage without tearing each other apart?"

Anshu nodded, taking some of the decorations from Vihaan. "We can handle it, Di."

Darsh winked at Ayesha. "We'll be on our best behavior beautiful ladyy."

They walked in comfortable silence, the fading sunlight filtering through the ancient trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

Ayesha stole glances at Vihaan, noticing the way his eyes sparkled with determination.

After a short walk, they arrived at a secluded courtyard tucked away from the main festivities.

Waiting there were Akul, Shruti, Duggu, Suhani, along with Krish and Shristi.

They were surrounded by crates filled with lanterns, flowers, and decorations, ready to transform the space into a magical setting.

"Surprise!" Krish exclaimed, grinning broadly. "We've been busy."

Ayesha laughed, feeling a surge of gratitude for their thoughtfulness. "This is amazing, you guys."

As they set to work, laughter and playful banter filled the air. Anshu and Darsh resumed their usual bickering, while Akul and Shruti debated the best way to hang the lanterns.

Suhani and Shristi teamed up to arrange the flowers, their laughter echoing through the courtyard.

Vihaan worked quietly beside Ayesha, his focus on ensuring everything was set up just right. Ayesha admired his dedication, grateful for his presence amidst the chaos.

Everyone was busy decorating the area, hanging colorful lanterns, arranging flowers, and setting up lights.

The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and friendly banter.

"Ayesha, you're hanging that garland like it's your first time!" Shristi teased, causing everyone to laugh.

Ayesha stuck out her tongue. "At least I'm doing something, unlike you just supervising!"

Just then, Ashish entered carrying a big box. "I'm here, guys! Got the pizzas and Coke!" he announced, setting the box down.

Everyone cheered and gathered around, taking a break from decorating to enjoy the food.

The group sat in a circle on the floor, munching on slices and sipping on cold drinks.

Krish took a bite and said, "So, Vihaan, did you actually help with the decorations or just stand around looking broody as usual?"

Vihaan gave him a look and said. "I did my part. Someone has to make sure you clowns don't mess it up."

Ayesha laughed at their exchange, her laughter catching Vihaan's attention. He found himself admiring her, a soft smile forming on his lips.

After the break, Ayesha climbed a ladder to hang some lights. As she reached the top, her balance wavered, and she let out a small yelp.

In an instant, Vihaan was there, catching her just before she could fall. He held her securely, his strong arms preventing what could have been a nasty spill.

"Perfect Jodi!!" Krish shouted, causing everyone to giggle.

Feeling embarrassed, Ayesha's face reddened like a tomato. Vihaan slowly put her down, his eyes darting to Krish with a glare.

"Are you okay?" he asked Ayesha, concern evident in his voice.

Ayesha nodded, trying to regain her composure. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks."

Krish, still chuckling, said, "Looks like our brooding hero has a soft spot after all."

Vihaan shot him another glare. "Watch it, Krish."

Vihaan said, and Krish mimicked him, "Watch it, Krish," in a teasing tone.

He then threw a decorative pillow at Vihaan, who quickly caught it with ease.

"It's your last warning, Krish. You're my best friend, that's why I'm letting this slide," Vihaan said with mock seriousness.

Krish grinned and threw another pillow. "Oh no, the big bad wolf is after me!"

Vihaan couldn't help but laugh. "You're such an idiot, Krish."

He tossed the pillow back at Krish, who dramatically ducked and rolled to the side.

Shristi joined in, throwing a handful of flower petals at both of them. "Now, now, children, play nice!"

Akul, not wanting to miss out, picked up a garland and looped it around Krish's neck. "Here, Krish bro. Now you're the official flower boy."

Krish struck a pose. "Do I look fabulous or what?"

Ayesha giggled, feeling the tension melt away. "Absolutely fabulous, Krish bhai."

Shristi chuckled and nodded toward Ashish. "Careful, Akul. You're encouraging his diva side."

Akul grinned. "Someone's gotta keep things interesting."

Krish, now in full dramatic mode, pretended to swoon. "Oh, Vihaan, save me from this cruel world!"

Vihaan rolled his eyes . "Alright, enough of the theatrics. We have work to do."

Ayesha, now more at ease, smiled at Vihaan. "Thanks again for catching me. I

Suhani, who had been quietly enjoying the spectacle, chimed in. "How about we get back to decorating before we all get buried in pillows and flowers?"

Everyone laughed and resumed their tasks.

But there was someone else who had rushed to help. Ashish had also been there, ready to catch Ayesha if Vihaan hadn't. He watched their interaction, a pang of hurt visible in his eyes.

He quickly shrugged it off when Akul nudged him and said, "Hey Ashish, come help me with these flowers."

Ashish gave a small nod and forced a smile. "Sure, Akul."

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

In next chapter I am adding someone else Pov too.
Can you guess it??? Comment down if you know.😉

More than 3000 words..😁👍🏻

आज से तेरी सारी गलियाँ मेरी हो गईं
आज से मेरा घर तेरा हो गया ~
आज से मेरी सारी खुशियाँ तेरी हो गईं
आज से तेरा ग़म मेरा हो गया~

ओ तेरे कंधे का जो तिल है
ओ तेरे सीने में जो दिल है
ओ तेरी बिजली का जो बिल है
आज से मेरा हो गया~

✷

Author POV

Krish's heart sank as he checked the time on his phone. "Oh shit, the cake! We need to pick it up," he exclaimed, his voice tinged with panic.

Darsh raised an eyebrow, a frown creasing his forehead. "Can't they just deliver it here?"

Krish glanced around the room, hoping someone would volunteer. "Who's going to go and get it?"

"Not me," Darsh replied quickly, shaking his head.

"Tereko koi bhej bhi nahi raha tha," Shruti chimed in with a smirk.

"Chup kar!" Darsh shot back at Shruti.

"Tu chup kar!" Shruti retorted, not backing down.

Vihaan's commanding voice cut through their escalating bickering. "Both of you, behave."

Krish looked relieved as Vihaan stepped in.

"I can go. Just send me the address, Krish," Vihaan offered, his tone decisive and calm.

Krish hesitated, considering the logistics. "But how will you manage it alone? And what if something happens? The cake is quite delicate, with intricate designs."

Before Vihaan could respond, an unexpected voice piped up. "I can go!"

All eyes turned towards Kanak, her presence suddenly asserting itself.

Some in the room secretly referred to her as "Kalank," a nickname born from unspoken tensions.

"Agye kbab mai haddi". Akul whispered to Suhani who frowned not getting what is he saying.

Krish considered the situation, weighing his options. "Actually, Kanak- I mean, it might be better if Ayesha goes with Vihaan."

Kanak's eyes narrowed, a hint of challenge in her voice. "Oh, really? Is that because Ayesha needs the practice with delicate things, or are you just trying to make her feel important?"

Ayesha, already irritated by Kanak's closeness to Vihaan, shot back with cold precision.

"Handling delicate things isn't my problem, unlike someone here who turns everything into a drama."

The room fell silent, Kanak visibly taken aback by Ayesha's sharp retort.

Vihaan stepped in, his tone firm. "Enough, Kanak. Ayesha will come with me. Let's keep things simple."

Shruti and Darsh exchanged surprised glances, impressed by Ayesha's unexpected assertiveness. Krish stifled a grin, recognizing Ayesha's boldness.

Kanak, wounded in pride, simmered with anger but held her tongue.

As Vihaan and Ayesha prepared to leave, the tension between them hung palpably in the air. Ashish watched Ayesha with a proud smile, while Vihaan's conflicted emotions remained veiled.

Vihaan opened the car door for Ayesha, but she slid into the passenger seat with evident displeasure, ignoring his gesture of courtesy. Vihaan got behind the wheel, stealing a sideways glance at her.

"Still silent, huh?" Vihaan remarked, his tone casual.

Ayesha turned her head slightly, eyes narrowing in frustration. "I thought you might have more to say. But I guess not."

Vihaan raised an eyebrow, maintaining his composure. "Seems like you have a lot on your mind, especially about Kanak."

Ayesha scoffed, folding her arms defensively. "It's not about her. It's about you allowing her to cling to you like that. It's irritating."

Vihaan's lips curled slightly, a hint of amusement in his voice. "And what am I supposed to do about it? It's not like I can control her actions."

"Ha..Ha..Aap toh sanskari aatma hai na jo kisi ko kuch bol he nhi skte hain."

Ayesha shot back, frustration coloring her cheeks.

Vihaan chuckled softly, his eyes on the road ahead. "You seem to have a strong opinion about my interactions with Kanak. Is there something you're not telling me?"

Ayesha turned to him sharply, her annoyance evident. "There's nothing to tell. I just don't get why you find this so amusing."

Vihaan's expression remained composed, a glint of curiosity in his eyes. "Amusing or not, I'm interested in why you're so invested in this."

Ayesha glared at him, her patience wearing thin. "Because someone should be. I'm tired of watching you stand by while Kanak makes a spectacle of herself."

Vihaan's gaze softened as he looked at her. "Maybe you care more than you let on."

Ayesha's tone hardened. "Maybe I care about not dealing with your perpetual indifference. Now, can we just get this cake and avoid any more pointless talk?"

Ayesha's frustration lingered as they navigated the quaint shop, filled with vibrant displays of cakes and pastries.

After securing the delicate cake, Vihaan paid for it efficiently. "Finally," Ayesha muttered under her breath as they exited the shop, her impatience evident.

Vihaan, sensing her mood, opted for neutral conversation. "What's next on our list?"

Ayesha spotted a boutique across the street, her interest piqued. "I want to check out that store. Might find something I like."

Vihaan checked his watch, his demeanor turning serious. "We're already behind schedule. We need to get this cake back promptly."

Ayesha sighed, crossing her arms defiantly. "Mai nahi ja rahi wapas car mai.. bas 5 min ke toh baat hai."

Vihaan's patience shifted to authority. He folded his arms, giving her a firm look.

" I'll count to five. If you're not in the car by then, I'll leave without you."

Ayesha's eyes widened incredulously. "Excuse me?"

"One," Vihaan began, commencing his count.

Ayesha's frustration peaked. "You can't just-"

"Two," Vihaan interrupted, his tone unwavering.

Her jaw clenched in response. "You're not going to-"

"Three," Vihaan continued, his voice insistent. "When I reach five, your time is up, Lemon."

Ayesha froze, perplexed by his nickname choice. "Lemon? Couldn't you come up with a better nickname? Nimbu? That sounds weird," she quipped, scrunching her nose.

Vihaan's surprise flickered momentarily before he composed himself. "Four," he said, maintaining his amused stance.

Ayesha's eyes widened in realization. Understanding his seriousness, she glanced back at the boutique, torn between desire and urgency.

Without further ado, she turned on her heel and run back towards the car.

Vihaan watched her with a smirk, grinning while whispering. "Five," as Ayesha rushed into the passenger seat, visibly fuming.

As Vihaan settled into the driver's seat, he couldn't resist teasing her. "Couldn't resist, could you?"

Ayesha shot him a glare. "Just get us out of here. And don't think I'll forget this."

Vihaan chuckled softly, his laughter melding with the car's hum as they drove away. Despite the tension, a playful undercurrent underscored their evolving dynamic.

As they drove back, the silence was less charged but still palpable.

The cake intact and the atmosphere between them a little less strained. They brought the cake inside, and the others gathered around, admiring its intricate design.

Krish clapped Vihaan on the back. "Great job, you two. It looks perfect."Ayesha smiled, a genuine one this time, as she and Vihaan shared a brief but meaningful look.

The rest of the evening passed in a blur of laughter, dancing, and last-minute preparations. Despite the earlier tension, everyone seemed to be in high spirits, the excitement for the upcoming wedding palpable.

Timeskip

The living room was bathed in the soft, golden glow of lamps and flickering candles, casting long shadows on the walls.

The air was filled with the faint scent of incense and the warmth of familial affection.

Parul and Dhirendra sat together on a plush sofa, surrounded by their extended family, while Manisha’s family—Rutvendra, Virenda, Suman, and Mamta—settled comfortably in armchairs and on the floor cushions.

The evening had been a joyous one, filled with laughter and reminiscing. The conversation had meandered from the haldi ceremony to the sangeet, each story bringing fresh bursts of laughter.

“Hume toh pata hi nahi chala, bachche kab itne bade ho gaye,” Parul said with a wistful smile, her eyes shining with a mix of pride and nostalgia as she looked around at the assembled family.

“I was thinking the same, Parul ji,” Suman replied, her voice tinged with a similar sense of wonder. “It feels like just yesterday we were all talking about their wedding  And now, here we are, planning the wedding!”

The room erupted in a collective chuckle, the joy of shared memories lighting up everyone’s faces.

Ayesha, broke through the laughter with an enthusiastic shout, “Aree yaar, gaana bjao! Shor sharaba karo, pata toh chale mere bhai ke shaadi hai!”

Everyone turned their heads in her direction, startled by her sudden outburst.

“Itne raat ko shaadi nahi hai!” someone exclaimed, half amused, half exasperated.

“Haan lekin parso hai na shaadi!” Ayesha retorted, her excitement bubbling over.

Parul shook her head, a tender smile playing on her lips. “Yai ladki bhi na…”

Rutvendra, overhearing Parul, chuckled and said, “Aap logo ne sone jaisi beti payi hai. Always bringing so much energy and joy.”

Both Dhirendra and Parul’s faces softened into warm smiles, their eyes meeting with a shared understanding and love for their family.

The laughter and lightheartedness of the evening were a testament to the close bonds that held them together, even as the next chapter of their lives approached with the upcoming wedding.

The night was filled with stories, laughter, and the unmistakable sense of family that would linger long after the conversations had faded.

Purva looked around, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Konsa song di?” she asked, a hint of anticipation in her voice.

Ashish, was already scrolling through his phone. “Wait, let me send you her favorite playlist,” he said, his fingers tapping the screen with practiced ease.

But before he could get too far, Ayesha interjected .“No, no, tu mat kar. Shristi ke paas Teresa better hai.”

Ashish paused, a look of mild surprise on his face. “Okay” he said shrugging.

He quickly shifted his attention, pulling up Shristi’s recommendation instead.

The room erupted into a low murmur of agreement as everyone seemed to share in the relief of having a better option.

There was an unspoken camaraderie in their decision-making, a collective nod to ensuring the evening’s soundtrack was just right.

Purva, her curiosity sated, smiled at the harmony of the moment. “Great! Can’t wait to hear it.”

Everyone was comfortably settled, enjoying each other’s company, when the door creaked open and Vihaan walked in, his eyes fixed intently on his iPad. He was engrossed in a conversation with Krish, who followed closely behind.

“Aree Krish bhaiya, Vihaan bhaiya, aap?” Darsh exclaimed, his face lighting up with surprise as he noticed them entering.

Krish looked up, a playful grin spreading across his face. “Kyu, tum hume expect nahi kar rahe the kya?” he teased, his tone light but with a hint of genuine curiosity.

Darsh adopted a mockingly forlorn expression. “Jab mai bulane gaya tha, toh daat kar bhaga diya tha aap dono ne,” he said, his voice dripping with exaggerated sadness.

Vihaan glanced up from his iPad, his eyes finding someone.

The room filled with laughter as the family enjoyed the spontaneous interaction. The warmth of the moment was palpable, each smile and chuckle adding to the shared sense of joy.

The music, though momentarily forgotten, would soon play its part, but for now, the easy camaraderie and teasing between family members created a memorable moment of connection and laughter.

As Ayesha returned from talking with her mother, she noticed Vihaan casually settled in her spot.

Her eyes narrowed with a mix of annoyance and amusement. With her hands firmly on her waist, she asked, “Aap mere jagah per kyu baithe hai?”

Shruti, observing the exchange, chimed in with a playful complaint, “Maine toh kaha tha yeh apke jagah hai Di, par bhaiya mante thodi hai.”

Ayesha glared at Vihaan, but he only offered a mischievous grin. “Yaha, space hai, aap yaha baith jaiye,” he said, shifting slightly to create room between himself and Ashish, his tone light but clearly enjoying the playful sparring.

As Ayesha insisted on reclaiming her spot, she firmly stated, “Nahi, yeh meri space hai, main yahi baithungi.”

Vihaan raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Kyu, yaha apka naam likha hai kya?” he quipped.

Ayesha, not backing down, pointed towards the little couch. “Nahi, but specially yeh mai uncle ko bol kar lekar aaye the,” she said with a hint of stubbornness.

Vihaan leaned in slightly, feigning irritation. “Kyu?” he asked, clearly enjoying the playful exchange.

Everyone around them chuckled, their laughter reflecting the warmth of the family’s camaraderie. Vihaan’s siblings exchanged glances of surprise at his boldness, clearly not used to seeing their brother in such a teasing mood.

Krish, observing the scene with a knowing smile, thought while shaking his head, “Sabko dheere-dheere pta chal jayega ki iss ladke ko  uske liye feelings hai, bas tujhe chhod ke.” His amused smile revealed his silent appreciation for the unfolding drama.

As Ayesha glared at him, Vihaan leaned back, feigning deep contemplation. “Acha toh aisa kya hai aap mai ?” he said with a smirk, clearly enjoying the playful

As the playful banter continued, the sudden burst of music from the playlist filled the room. Ayesha’s expression shifted immediately from irritation to pure delight.

Her eyes lit up as the first notes of her favorite song began to play, perfectly complementing the lively atmosphere.

Her smile widened, blending seamlessly with the moment. She looked at Vihaan, who was still smirking, and the music seemed to tie their playful exchange into a joyful harmony.

The tune brought a fresh wave of energy, and Ayesha couldn't help but feel that the music was adding an extra layer of magic to the evening.

“Yeh toh mere favorite gaane hai!” Ayesha exclaimed, her annoyance forgotten. She glanced around, catching the amused and surprised looks from everyone else. The music seemed to enhance the light-hearted mood, making the evening even more memorable.

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Guess the music..mere pyare logo..!!😁

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✷

मैं, मेरा दिल और तुम हो यहाँ
फिर क्यूँ हो पलकें झुकाए वहाँ?
तुम सा हसीं पहले देखा नहीं
तुम इससे पहले थे जाने कहाँ

जीने लगा हूँ पहले से ज़्यादा
पहले से ज़्यादा तुम पे मरने लगा

✷

Author Pov

As the song played, Ayesha took center stage, her energy infectious. She moved with a playful grace, drawing everyone's attention.

"हो, ये रूप-रंग मेरा जड़ है फ़ित्नों की,"she mimicked, her hands gesturing towards herself her eyes twinkling with mischief. Vihaan, caught off guard, chuckled, playing along with her antics.

"अरे, नीयत बदल गई जाने कितनों की," she continued, mimicking the lyrics perfectly secretly gesturing towards Vihaan , her steps taking her closer to Shristi. The two shared a knowing smile, enjoying the fun.

"हँस के जिधर मैं अपनी नज़र उठा दूँ, उधर बनें अफ़साने," Ayesha sang, dancing fluidly across the room, her laughter echoing the playful spirit of the song.

She moved from left to right, her feet light as she twirled around, her skirt swirling with her.

"यहाँ मिलेंगे तुझको गली-गली, मेरे नाम के दीवाने, हो," she declared, grabbing Vihaan's collar with a mischievous grin. His eyes wide in mock surprise as the room erupted in laughter.

"ऐसी-वैसी मैं नहीं, राजा,"Ayesha said, letting go of his collar with a dramatic flair, her hands moving in a dismissive gesture. The crowd watched, amused by the playful banter.

"अरे, तेरे जैसे कितने, जा-जा," she mimicked, her movements light and playful, as if shooing Vihaan away.

Shristi and Shruti joined in, their movements synchronized with Ayesha's, adding to the fun.

They twirled and spun, their steps matching the rhythm of the song perfectly.

The entire room was captivated by their performance. Ayesha's expressions were animated, her gestures bold and confident. She sang with passion, her voice clear and strong, drawing everyone into the moment.

Vihaan, recovering from his mock surprise, watched Ayesha with admiration, a soft smile playing on his lips.

The playful banter between them added a spark to the evening, making it even more memorable.

As the song reached its crescendo, Ayesha, Shristi, and Anshu struck a final pose, their faces glowing with joy. The room burst into applause, everyone cheering and clapping, the energy infectious.

The scene was a perfect blend of music, dance, and playful camaraderie, capturing the essence of the joyous gathering.

As the opening beats of "Gallan Goodiyan" filled the room, Krish couldn't resist getting up.

He mimicked the song lyrics playfully, moving towards Vihaan's parents with a broad grin.

"मैं डालूँ ताल पे भंगड़ा, तू भी गिद्दा पा ले,"Krish sang, encouraging them to join in. Laughing, they stood up and began to dance, their movements light-hearted and full of joy.

Ayesha, noticing the fun, turned towards her parents. "चल ऐसा रंग जमा दें हम कि बनें सभी मतवाले,"she sang, her voice vibrant and full of energy. Her parents, caught up in the infectious rhythm, joined her on the dance floor.

As the song continued, Darsh, Shruti, Duggu, Anshu, Akul, and Suhani couldn't resist the pull of the music.

They all joined in, creating a lively and joyful scene, everyone dancing and laughing together.

Ayesha's eyes sparkled as she danced, moving with grace and joy.

She turned towards Ashish, who was tapping his foot to the music. "मन कहे कि मैं ले आऊँ चाँद और तारे सारे,"she sang, pulling him into the center of the room.

"इन हाथों पर मैं चाँद रखूँ, इस माँग में भर दूँ तारे," Ashish responded, his movements matching Ayesha's enthusiasm.

They danced together seamlessly, their steps light and perfectly in sync.

"Hello, hello, तू floors पे जब है आई," Krish sang, his voice carrying over the music.

"ये लो, ये लो, बड़ी solid मस्ती छाई," Shristi continued, the rest lyrics movements exaggerated and fun, making everyone laugh.

"Hello, hello, too much है तुम ने लगाई," Ayesha sang, teasing Ashish as they danced closer together.

"ये लो, ये लो, control करो, मेरे भाई," Duggu added, laughing as Ashish pretended to struggle to keep up with Ayesha.

"धक-धक, धक-धक धड़के ये दिल," they sang together, their voices blending harmoniously. The room clapped along, cheering them on.

Vihaan, watching from the side, felt a pang of jealousy. He couldn't take his eyes off Ayesha and Ashish, their chemistry undeniable.

His smile faded slightly as he watched them dance, his feelings becoming harder to ignore.

"छन-छन बोलें अमृतसरी चूड़ियाँ,"Anshu sang, spinning away from Duggu towards Darsh , their movements fluid and graceful.

"रात बड़ी है मस्तानी तो, दिलबर ਜਾਣੀ, कर ਲੇ ਗੱਲਾਂ ਗੂੜ੍ਹੀਆਂ," they sang, their voices filled with joy and excitement. The crowd clapped along, their energy infectious.

Krish, noticing Vihaan's change in mood, tried to lighten the atmosphere. "ये नैन-मटक्का तेरा, ओए, मुझे बड़ा तड़पावे," he sang, moving towards Vihaan with exaggerated steps, making everyone laugh.

"तੂੰ ਦੇਖे ਤੋ ਅੱਜ ਵੀ ਦਿਲ ਪਰ ਕੁੜੀਏ, तीर ਸਾ ਇੱਕ ਚੱਲ जਾਵੇ," Krish continued, pulling Vihaan into the dance. Vihaan, though initially hesitant, kept glancing at Ayesha and Ashish.

"कर दे बिन पिए शराबी, चेहरा तेरा गुलाबी,"Ayesha sang, her eyes twinkling as she danced around Vihaan.

"कोई क्यूँ ना यमला बन जावे जो इतनी हो बेताबी?" she added, her laughter echoing through the room.

"Hello, hello, दिल दिल से connect करना," Ashish sang, pulling Ayesha close towards himself, their movements perfectly synchronized.

"ये लो (ये लो), ये बातें direct करना," he continued, his voice playful and teasing.

Vihaan's jealousy grew as he watched them, his smile strained. The scene was filled with joy and laughter, but for Vihaan, it was bittersweet.

"धक-धक, धक-धक धड़के ये दिल,"Ayesha and Ashish sang together, their voices blending harmoniously.

"छन-छन बोलें अमृतसरी चूड़ियाँ," they continued, moving in perfect sync.

As the song reached its crescendo, Ayesha, Ashish, and the others struck a final pose, their faces glowing with joy.

The room burst into applause, everyone cheering and clapping, the energy infectious.

Vihaan, standing to the side, forced a smile, his eyes lingering on Ayesha.

The playful camaraderie and joy of the moment were overshadowed by his growing feelings for her, making the evening memorable for everyone in a way he hadn't expected.

As the song ended and the room filled with applause and cheers, everyone slowly began to catch their breath.

The laughter and joy lingered in the air as they found their way back to the seating area, tired but happy.

Ayesha plopped down on a sofa, wiping the sweat from her forehead. "Yaar, kitna maza aaya," she said, grinning at everyone.

Ashish flopped down beside her, still catching his breath. "Bilkul, ,"he agreed. "Dance karne mein pura exercise ho gaya."

Shruti, laughing, joined them.

"Woh toh hai," she said, leaning back in her chair. "Mujhe toh abhi bhi lag raha hai ki gaane baj rahe hain."

Darsh, with a tired smile, nodded. "Haan yaar, lekin mazaa aa gaya," he said, stretching his arms. "Aaj ki raat yaadgaar ban gayi."

Without saying a word, Vihaan stood up and quietly walked out of the room. Krish noticed and immediately got up to follow him.

The rest of the group exchanged puzzled glances, but everyone was too tired to ask questions.

Suhani yawned and stretched her arms. "Main toh abhi apne kamre mein jaane wali hoon," she said, standing up. "Good night, sabko."

"Good night, Suhani,"everyone echoed, as she made her way to her room.

Slowly, the others began to disperse as well. Darsh and Shruti stood up together.

Ashish, noticing Ayesha's thoughtful expression, asked, "You okay?"

Ayesha nodded but her mind was buzzing with thoughts of Vihaan. "Haan, thik hoon. She said, her eyes distant.

She snapped back to the present and addressed everyone. "Sab log suno. 11:50 baje garden mein milna. Hm?"

"Hm.." everyone replied, nodding.

As everyone retreated to their rooms, Ayesha lingered for a moment longer, her thoughts still on Vihaan.

She hoped whatever was bothering him would be resolved soon. She took a deep breath and headed to her room, ready for whatever the night might bring.

Vihaan entered his room, shutting the door behind him with a heavy sigh.

He threw his phone onto the bed and ran his hands through his hair, trying to shake off the frustration that had been building up all night.

The room was dimly lit, offering him a semblance of peace, but his mind was anything but calm.

Just as he sat on the edge of his bed, the door burst open. Krish barged in, his face a mix of concern and determination. "Kya hua tu aise waha se wapas Kyi agya?"

Vihaan didn't look up, his expression cold and detached. "Nothing. Just leave me alone, Krish."

Krish refused to back down. "Don't give me that. You've been acting weird . What's wrong?"

Vihaan's jaw tightened. "I said it's nothing. Stop asking."

Krish took a step closer, frustration evident in his voice. "Why can't you just talk to me?"

Vihaan finally looked up, his eyes steely. "Tujhe ik baar mai samjh nahi aata kya? I don't want to talk about it."

Krish's patience snapped. "Khud kuch batata nahi hai, mai kuch puchu tab aur nahi batata. Faltu ki na dosti rakhi hai tune mere sath!"

The room was thick with tension. Vihaan's face hardened, and he stood up, meeting Krish's gaze with an equally fierce one. "Fine. Fuck off then!"

Krish glared at him for a moment, the hurt clear in his eyes, before turning on his heel and storming out of the room.

The door slammed shut behind him, leaving Vihaan alone in the now oppressive silence.

Vihaan sank back onto his bed, his head in his hands. He knew he was pushing Krish away, but he couldn't help it. The turmoil inside him was too much to share, even with his closest friend.

Timeskip

The clock had struck 2 AM, and the house was finally quiet after the surprise celebration for Manisha and Aryan.

Vihaan had retreated to his room again, hoping for some peace, but was met with a knock on his door. This time, Krish walked in, carrying two mugs of coffee and a couple of drinks.

"Chal, bata kya hua?" Krish asked, handing Vihaan a coffee mug and settling down on the chair.

Vihaan took the mug, his grip so tight his veins popped. He took a deep breath, his mind swirling with thoughts.

"I'm confused..." he finally said, staring into the coffee as if it held all the answers.

"About Ayesha, right?" Krish's words made Vihaan's head jerk up, his eyes wide with surprise.

"Itni jaldi gardan ghumayega toh gardan ki haddi tut jayegi,"Krish said, taking a sip from his drink, a smirk playing on his lips.

"How do you know?"Vihaan asked, his voice a mix of shock and curiosity.

"Tera chddi bddi dost hun saale,"*Krish shrugged, leaning back. "You like her, don't you?"

Vihaan's grip tightened around the mug. "No, it's just... something else," he said, his voice lacking conviction.

Krish raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. "So it is love... Hm. Hmm," he said, wiggling his eyebrows teasingly.

Vihaan glared at him. "Nahi kaha na maine," he insisted, his tone defensive.

Krish chuckled, shaking his head. "So why were you jealous at that time?"

Vihaan's face flushed slightly. "I wasn't jealous," he muttered, looking away.

Krish leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh really? Your face said otherwise when Ashish danced with her."

Vihaan scowled, the tension evident in his posture. "Tu chup rahega ya yahi coffee mug maaru phek ke?"

Krish chuckled, setting his mug down on the table. "Tu kuch zyada matchmaker ban ne ka try nahi kar raha?"Vihaan asked, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips despite the tension.

Krish raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Matchmaker? Main? Nahin yaar, bas sach bol raha hoon."

Vihaan rolled his eyes. "Sach ya sarcasm? Dono mein farq hai."

Krish grinned, leaning back in his chair. "Dekhle bhai , main bas itna keh raha hoon ki tu jo feel kar raha hai usse bhaag mat. Accept karna seekh."

Vihaan sighed, rubbing his temples. "Tu kabse itna philosophical ban gaya?"

Krish laughed. "Jab se tu itna complicated ho gaya."

Vihaan shook his head. "You know, you're really annoying."

Krish nodded, still smiling. "I know. But you need someone to push you, otherwise you'll just keep everything bottled up."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, sipping their drinks and letting the night's events sink in.

Despite the complicated emotions, Vihaan felt grateful for a friend like Krish who could push him when he needed it most.

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If you were in Vihaan's shoes, what would you do? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Don't forget, I need 15+ comments to release the next chapter!"

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तेरी नज़र ने यह क्या कर दिया?
मुझसे ही मुझको जुदा कर दिया~
तेरी नज़र ने यह क्या कर दिया?
मुझसे ही मुझको जुदा कर दिया~
मैं रहता हूँ तेरे पास कहीं
अब मुझको मेरा एहसास नहीं~
दिल कहता है बस मुझे

✷

Author Pov

Morning sun rose over the palatial estate, casting long shadows across the manicured lawns and intricate fountains.

Inside the grand mansion, preparations were in full swing for the wedding of Aryan and Manisha, an event that had been eagerly anticipated by both families for months.

The estate was a sight to behold, with its sprawling gardens, marble pillars, and ornate architecture that spoke of timeless elegance.

The grandeur of the setting was matched only by the excitement that filled the air as family members, friends, and staff worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect.

In one of the elegantly decorated rooms, Aryan stood before a large mirror, adjusting his traditional sherwani.

The rich fabric shimmered under the soft lighting, and the intricate embroidery highlighted the craftsmanship that had gone into its making.

His friend and confidant Raman and Rohit were beside him, offering words of encouragement.

"You're looking like a prince, Bro," Raman said with a grin, his eyes twinkling with genuine admiration. "Manisha is going to be speechless when she sees you."

Aryan chuckled nervously, his fingers fumbling with the last button on his sherwani. "Let's hope I don't trip over my own feet when I step out of that Rath."

Rohit laughed, clapping Aryan on the back. "Relax, buddy. You’ve got this. Today is all about you and Manisha. Just enjoy every moment."

Meanwhile, in a different wing of the mansion, Ayesha was bustling around, making sure everything was in place.

Her vibrant pink lehenga swished around her as she darted from room to room, coordinating with the decorators and caterers.

The hallways echoed with her clear, authoritative voice as she gave directions.

"Ayesha, slow down! You'll tire yourself out before the ceremony even begins," Shristi called out, laughing as she watched Ayesha in action.

"I can't help it! Everything has to be perfect," Ayesha replied, a determined look on her face as she adjusted a floral arrangement.

Ayesha paused for a moment, taking in the beautifully decorated space around her. The walls were adorned with strings of marigolds, and the scent of sandalwood incense wafted through the air.

She smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Across the estate, the bride's family was equally busy.

Suman, was supervising the final touches on the wedding stage, her eyes sparkling with pride and excitement.

The stage, draped in luxurious fabrics and adorned with flowers, was a vision of elegance.

"Make sure the lights are positioned just right," Suman instructed one of the decorators.

"We want everything to be perfect for when Aryan and Manisha take their vows."

Mamta, Manisha's choti mummy, was preparing the aarti plate with meticulous care, her mind filled with thoughts of the upcoming ceremony.

The plate, decorated with flowers, kumkum, and rice, was a symbol of the family's blessings and love for the couple.

In a quiet corner of the house, Manisha sat before her vanity, her heart racing with excitement and a touch of nervousness. Her best friend, Priya, was helping her with the final touches on her bridal attire.

The room was filled with the soft sound of classical music, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the chaos of wedding preparations.

"Hayye meri Queen, you look absolutely stunning," Priya said, adjusting the dupatta on Manisha's head.

The red and gold fabric complemented Manisha's radiant complexion, and the intricate jewelry added a touch of regality.

"Aryan won't be able to take his eyes off you."

Manisha blushed, her thoughts drifting to Aryan and the life they were about to begin together. "I can't believe this day is finally here," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion.

Priya squeezed her hand reassuringly. "It's going to be perfect, Isha. You and Aryan are meant to be together."

As the hours passed, the estate buzzed with activity. Guests began to arrive, filling the grounds with laughter and chatter.

The scent of marigolds and sandalwood wafted through the air, mingling with the rhythmic beat of dhol drums that set the festive mood.

The catering team was busy setting up an elaborate spread in the garden. Tables were laden with a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian delicacies to international cuisine, ensuring that there was something for everyone.

The chefs worked with precision and artistry, turning each dish into a work of culinary art.

In the main hall, a group of musicians tuned their instruments, preparing for the live performances that would entertain the guests throughout the day.

The sound of the sitar, tabla, and flute filled the air, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Ayesha was in her usual spirited mood, darting around the mansion as she checked on various preparations for the wedding.

Her vibrant pink lehenga swayed with her every step, and her laughter echoed through the halls, a beacon of joy amidst the organized chaos.

The grand estate was bustling with activity, and Ayesha thrived in the lively atmosphere, ensuring that everything was perfect for her brother Aryan’s big day.

As she sprinted down one of the corridors, her mother caught sight of her. "Ayesha!" she called out, her voice firm yet affectionate.

Ayesha skidded to a stop, turning to face her mother with a mischievous smile. "Ha, Mumma?" she replied, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

Mrs. Malhotra approached, holding a small, elegant box in her hands. "Yai lo," she said, handing the box to Ayesha.

Ayesha's eyes lit up as she took the box. "Wao, gift? Mere liye hayye," she exclaimed, already imagining what it could be.

She eagerly opened the box, only to find a men’s brooch inside. Her excitement quickly turned to confusion.

"Men's brooch?" Ayesha asked, looking up at her mother with a puzzled expression.

She chuckled at her daughter’s naivety. "Tere liye nhi hai," she clarified, shaking her head with a smile.

Ayesha raised an eyebrow, still confused. "Toh kiske liye hai?" she inquired, curiosity getting the better of her.

Her mother sighed gently, as if to say Ayesha should have figured it out by now. "Vihaan ke liye hai," she explained.

"Aryan lekar aaya tha Vihaan ke liye, but he forgot to give it to him."

Ayesha's face lit up with recognition but quickly turned to a playful frown. "Toh iska mai kya karu?" she asked, feeling slightly put out.

Her mother gave her a pointed look. "Give it to him and tell him that it is from Aryan, ok?" she instructed, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Ayesha's playful defiance resurfaced as she pouted, "Main nhi ja rhe un akdu ke pass."

She crossed her arms in mock protest, clearly not wanting to face Vihaan.

Before Ayesha could further her protest,Her mother raised her hand and lightly smacked Ayesha's arm, a gesture of affectionate reprimand.

"Stop it, Ayesha! Just do as I say," she scolded lightly, though her eyes softened with amusement.

Ayesha rubbed her arm, feigning hurt, but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips. "Okay, okay, I'll give it to him," she conceded, rolling her eyes. "But you owe me for this."

Her mother shook her head with a knowing smile. "Just go, and no more excuses," she said, turning to head back into the bustling mansion.

Ayesha sighed dramatically but took the brooch box and started making her way to find Vihaan.

As much as she teased him, she couldn’t deny that there was a certain charm in seeing the usually stoic Vihaan slightly flustered.

With a mischievous glint in her eye, she prepared herself for the encounter, ready to fulfill her mother's request despite her playful reluctance.

Author Pov Ended

Vihaan Pov

As the day of my lil sister Manisha's wedding unfolded, I found a moment to step away from the bustling preparations and take a breather.

The courtyard, normally a serene and quiet space, was now adorned with vibrant decorations, echoing the festive atmosphere of the day.

The sounds of music, laughter, and chatter surrounded me, but for a brief moment, I found solace in a quiet corner, away from the chaos.

The air was filled with the scent of marigolds and sandalwood, blending seamlessly with the warmth of the setting sun.

My mind wandered as I stood there, thinking about the day and all the emotions it brought with it.

Manisha, my little sister, was getting married. It was a day filled with joy and pride, yet there was a bittersweet undertone.

Watching her step into a new chapter of her life brought back a flood of memories—her first day of school, the countless times we played together, and the nights I comforted her when she was upset.

She had grown up so much, and while I was proud of her, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of melancholy. My protective instincts kicked in, as they always did, making me hope that Aryan would cherish her as much as I did.

Lost in these thoughts, I suddenly heard someone call out, "Suniye!" The voice was familiar, playful, and instantly pulled me out of my reverie.

I turned around, and my breath caught slightly as I saw her standing there.

She was a vision in her vibrant pink lehenga, the rich fabric shimmering under the warm glow of the setting sun.

The intricate embroidery, woven with threads of gold and silver, caught the light with every move she made.

Her dupatta, elegantly draped over her shoulder, added an extra layer of grace to her ensemble. The delicate patterns and the soft, flowing material complemented her lively personality perfectly.

Her face was a canvas of emotions—excitement, joy, and a hint of mischief.

Her large, expressive eyes were framed by thick, kohl-lined lashes, and they sparkled with an energy that seemed to light up the entire courtyard.

Her cheeks were slightly flushed, perhaps from all the running around she had been doing. A playful smile danced on her lips, revealing a set of pearly white teeth.

Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, a few rebellious strands escaping to frame her face. She was effortlessly beautiful, a sight that was both captivating and disarming.

I cleared my throat, trying to regain my composure. "Yes?" I managed to say, keeping my tone as neutral as possible. Despite my attempts to remain calm, I could feel my heart rate quicken.

She had a way of making every interaction feel intense, her presence always charged with an unpredictable energy.

She walked towards me, holding a small, intricately designed box in her hands. "I have something for you," she said, her voice laced with a teasing undertone.

Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, everything else seemed to fade away. It was just the two of us, standing amidst the chaos of the day, sharing a moment that felt strangely intimate.

I raised an eyebrow, genuinely intrigued. "For me?" I asked, my curiosity piqued. It wasn't often that she approached me with something, and I couldn't help but wonder what she had up her sleeve.

Ayesha nodded, her playful smile widening. She handed me the box, and as I took it, I noticed the delicate craftsmanship of the packaging.

The box was adorned with intricate floral designs, and the material felt smooth and luxurious under my fingers.

I carefully opened it, revealing a beautifully crafted brooch inside. It was a men's brooch, elegant and understated, with a design that was both classic and sophisticated.

As I examined the brooch, Ayesha explained, "It's from Aryan bhai. He brought it for you but forgot to give it to you himself."

Her voice had a sincere undertone, despite her usual playful demeanor. She looked at me expectantly, as if gauging my reaction.

I glanced up at her, a mixture of surprise and appreciation in my eyes. The gesture from Aryan was thoughtful, and I felt a warm surge of gratitude.

But more than that, I was touched that Ayesha had taken the time to deliver it, even though it clearly wasn't something she was keen on doing. "Thank you," I said, my voice softening. "And thank Aryan for me."

Ayesha shrugged, attempting to downplay her involvement. "Don't thank me. It was Mumma who insisted I give it to you. I was just the messenger," she said, a mock frown appearing on her face.

Yet, the twinkle in her eye betrayed her amusement. She always had a way of turning even the simplest of tasks into a playful encounter.

I couldn't help but smile at her antics. There was something endearing about her straightforwardness, her ability to bring a sense of lightness to any situation.

As I looked at her, I found myself noticing the finer details—the way her earrings glinted in the light, the soft glow of her skin, and the gentle curve of her lips.

She was a whirlwind of color and emotion, a stark contrast to my more reserved nature.

For a brief moment, I felt a sense of connection with her, an unspoken understanding that went beyond the usual banter and teasing.

It was a rare, unguarded moment, and I realized that beneath her playful exterior, there was a depth and sincerity that I hadn't fully appreciated before.

She seemed to sense the shift in the air as well. She clapped her hands together, breaking the spell. "Well, my duty is done," she declared with a grin. "Don't lose it, okay? It's a special gift."

I nodded, carefully placing the brooch back in its box. "I'll take good care of it," I promised, meeting her gaze. There was a sincerity in my voice, a silent acknowledgment of the importance of the gesture.

As she turned to leave, I watched her go, a small smile playing on my lips. She moved with a graceful ease, her lehenga swishing around her as she walked.

There was a liveliness in her step, a buoyancy that seemed to lift the spirits of everyone around her. I found myself drawn to that energy, intrigued by the way she effortlessly brought joy to those around her.

As She handed me the brooch, she said casually, "Bhai told you to wear it today."

Her voice had a playful lilt, as if she enjoyed relaying the message. Without waiting for a response, she turned around to leave, her vibrant lehenga swishing around her.

Something inside me stirred, a sudden urge I couldn't quite understand. Before I could think it through, I reached out and grabbed her wrist gently, halting her in her tracks.

She  stopped and turned back to me, her eyes widening slightly in surprise. She glanced down at her wrist, then looked back up at me, her eyebrows raised in question.

Realizing what I had done, I quickly let go, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck. My heart pounded in my chest, an unruly beat that echoed in my ears.

Was Krish right about my feelings for her? The thought alone was enough to make me feel both anxious and thrilled.

"Kya hua?" she asked, her voice softening with curiosity. There was a hint of concern in her eyes, as if she was genuinely worried about why I had stopped her.

I felt my throat go dry. What could I possibly say? That I stopped her just to admire her a little longer? To capture this fleeting moment with her in my memory? The words stuck in my throat, refusing to come out.

"Hello?" she prompted, waving her hand in front of my eyes. Her tone was teasing, but her gaze was searching, trying to understand what was going on in my mind.

The warmth of her presence, her delicate features, and the sparkle in her eyes all felt overwhelming.

Before I could think, I blurted out the first thing that came to mind. "I don't know how to wear it," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

As soon as the words left my mouth, I regretted them. It was a lame excuse, and I knew it.

Ayesha looked at me, clearly taken aback. "What?" she said, her voice filled with disbelief.

I swallowed hard, trying to maintain some semblance of composure.

"I know you heard it," I said, forcing myself to meet her gaze. There was no turning back now.

She looked at me for a moment, her expression unreadable. Then, she smirked, the corners of her mouth twitching with amusement.

"Ask someone then," she replied, her tone light but curious. She was clearly enjoying this unexpected turn of events.

"No," I said firmly, shaking my head. "Aap lekar aaye hai toh aap he pehna dijiye." The words came out more resolutely than I intended, surprising even myself.

I watched as her expression shifted, the playful smile fading into something more serious.

Ayesha paused, seemingly considering my request. Then, with a slight shrug, she stepped closer. "Hm..thik hai," she said softly, taking the brooch from my hand.

Her fingers brushed against mine, sending a jolt of electricity through me. My heart continued to race, each beat echoing in the silence that suddenly surrounded us.

She moved with a quiet confidence, standing so close that I could catch the faint scent of her perfume, a delicate mix of jasmine and something sweet.

Her eyes focused on the brooch, she reached up to my chest, her fingers deftly working to pin the accessory to my kurta.

I watched her face, mesmerized by the concentration in her eyes, the gentle curve of her lashes, the way her lips pressed together in a thin line as she worked.

"Hold still," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. I could feel the warmth of her breath against my skin, and it sent a shiver down my spine.

As she adjusted the brooch, her fingers occasionally brushed against my chest, each touch sending a thrill through me.

Ayesha stepped back slightly, her eyes scanning her work with a critical eye. She tilted her head, seemingly satisfied with the placement. "There," she said, looking up at me with a small smile. "All done."

I glanced down at the brooch, noticing how perfectly it complemented my outfit. It felt significant, not just because Aryan had chosen it, but because she had helped me wear it.

The moment felt intimate, a small, shared secret in the midst of the larger celebration. I looked back at her, finding it hard to articulate the mix of emotions swirling inside me.

"Thank you," I finally managed, my voice soft and sincere. It felt inadequate, but it was all I could say.

Ayesha nodded, her eyes meeting mine. For a moment, we stood there in silence, the world around us fading into the background.

The playful banter, the teasing glances—all of it seemed to dissolve, leaving behind a quiet understanding that neither of us needed to voice.

Just as the moment threatened to stretch into something more, Ayesha broke the silence with a chuckle though her eyes sparkled with genuine appreciation. "I'll see you around."

As she walked away, her laughter mingling with the sounds of the celebration, I watched her go, feeling a warmth spread through me.

The encounter had been brief, but it left a lingering sense of something unspoken, a connection that felt both exhilarating and daunting.

As I touched the brooch on my chest, I couldn't help but think about Krish's teasing words about my feelings for Ayesha.

Maybe he wasn't entirely wrong. Maybe there was something more beneath the surface, something worth exploring.

With a deep breath, I turned back to the festivities, a small smile playing on my lips.

Whatever the future held, I knew one thing for sure: Ayesha had a way of making everything feel a little more exciting, a little more meaningful. And for now, that was enough.

In the midst of the laughter, the music, and the vibrant celebrations, I realized that today was more than just a wedding. It was a celebration of love, family, and new connections.

And in the quiet moments, in the unexpected interactions, I felt a deeper understanding of the bonds that brought us all together.

As I rejoined the festivities, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what lay ahead, not just for Manisha and Aryan, but for all of us who were part of this beautiful journey.

Vihaan pov Ended

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