Chapter 31 to 41

सजदे में यूँ ही झुकता हूँ
तुम पे ही आके रुकता हूँ ~
क्या ये सबको होता है?
हमको क्या लेना है सबसे~
तुम से ही सब बातें अब से
बन गए हो तुम मेरी दुआ~
सजदे में यूँ ही झुकता हूँ

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Vihaan’s POV:

“Mai apke sath kyu jau?” she said, walking towards me with a fake annoyed expression, her face reddened by the heat.

“Kyu nahi ja sakte?” I asked, raising my brows in confusion.

“What if you kidnapped me? I don’t trust strangers,” she replied.

The words hit me like a punch to the gut. How could she call me a stranger? A surge of frustration welled up inside me. I paused, trying to steady my breathing. She was right—I was a stranger to her in many ways, but it stung to hear it so bluntly.

“Ok fine,” I said, my voice cold as ice, my jaw clenched tightly. “I am a stranger, I get that.”

She looked taken aback by my sudden shift in demeanor. “I didn’t mean—”

“It's fine,” I interrupted, my voice icy. “I understand where I stand.”

I turned away slightly, trying to compose myself. The words stung more than I wanted to admit, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of disappointment. Why did her opinion of me matter so much?

“You can call someone else who is not a stranger to you and go with him or her,” I said, emphasizing the word "stranger" as if it were a burden I was forced to bear.

Her brows furrowed in confusion and frustration as she looked at me. “I didn’t mean it like that,” she began, but her voice was hesitant, as if she was struggling to find the right words.

I could see her internal conflict, and it only fueled my irritation further. “It’s fine,” I cut her off, trying to keep my tone steady. “If that’s how you feel, then I won’t push it.”

There was a silence between us, heavy with unspoken words. I could tell she wanted to say something more, but the way she was looking at me—caught between regret and uncertainty—made it clear that this conversation had taken a toll on both of us.

“It’s—” she began to respond, but her words were cut short as Shashwat arrived.

“I know him,” I thought, recognizing Shashwat as Avyansh’s best friend. I had seen him talking to her earlier.

“Miss Ayesha, are you going alone or with someone?” Shashwat asked, casting a glance at me.

Before she could answer, I stepped in. “She’s going with me,” I said, my voice tight as I struggled with the jealousy bubbling inside me. The word "jealous" echoed in my mind, and I realized how intense it felt.

“Shall we go now?” I asked, taking the small bag of prashad from her hand, my jaw clenched in frustration.

“It’s—” she began to respond, but her words were cut short as Shashwat arrived.

“I know him,” I thought, recognizing Shashwat as Avyansh’s best friend. I had seen him talking to her earlier.

“Miss Ayesha, are you going alone or with someone?” Shashwat asked, casting a glance at me.

Before she could answer, I stepped in. “She’s going with me,” I said, my voice tight as I struggled with the jealousy bubbling inside me. The word "jealous" echoed in my mind, and I realized how intense it felt.

“Shall we go now?” I asked, taking the small bag of prashad from her hand, my jaw clenched in frustration.

“Apki kanji aankhon mein har waqt gussa kyun rehta hai?” she teased, her tone light and playful.

“Kyunki meri kanji aankhein har waqt apko dekhte rehti hain,” I shot back, trying to match her tone.

“Hawww…” she gasped dramatically. “Apko mujhe dekh ke gussa aata hai?” she asked, turning away. “Jaiye, ab aap, main ja rahi hoon Shashwat ke saath.”

Before she could take a step, I grabbed her hand and pulled her towards me.

The air around us shifted, from tense to playful. Her eyes widened in surprise, and her lips curled into a mischievous smile. I felt her hand warm against mine, and I couldn't help but smile back, my earlier frustration melting away.

“Ab kya hai?” she asked, her voice teasing but with a hint of curiosity.

“Chaliye shanti purvak mere saath,” I said, suddenly breaking into a genuine smile.

Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she looked at me, her earlier annoyance replaced by playful curiosity. “Aapko shanti purvak chalna hai, ya mere saath?” she asked, her tone light.

“Dono hi,” I replied, my smile widening. “Aapke saath chalne mein hi shanti hai.”

She laughed, the sound bright and infectious. “Aap bhi na,” she said, shaking her head but clearly enjoying the banter.

With that, we started walking together, the playful tension between us giving way to a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Author POV

Ayesha came back from the office, exhaustion written all over her face. It had been a long day, especially after the grih pravesh ceremony earlier.

The silent atmosphere that greeted her upon entering the house felt unusual. Normally, the house would be filled with familiar sounds—her parents' conversations, the TV, or Manisha and Aryan's lighthearted banter. But today, it was eerily quiet.

"Arey, sab kaha hai?" she called out, kicking off her shoes near the entrance.

From the kitchen, the sound of clattering dishes reached her ears. "Humlog idhar living room mein hai," Aryan's voice echoed from the living room.

"Oh," Ayesha muttered to herself, glancing toward the living room. She peeked inside and saw her family sitting there, engaged in hushed conversation. "Mumma, I'm hungry. I'm coming, just let me freshen up first," she said, rubbing her stomach.

"Thik hai, beta," her mother replied, getting up to prepare a plate for her.

Ayesha quickly went to her room, changed into something more comfortable, and washed away the day's weariness.

Within a few minutes, she returned to the living room, her hair slightly damp, wearing a loose t-shirt and pajama pants. She plopped down on the sofa, folding her legs under her, settling into her usual spot.

Her mother joined her, placing a plate of food in her hands. "Lo, khana khalo," she said, gently patting Ayesha's shoulder.

"Thanks, Maa," Ayesha said, immediately taking a bite. The taste of homemade food after such a long day brought a sense of comfort, but the atmosphere was still unsettling.

As she ate, she glanced around the room. Aryan was sitting opposite her, flipping through his phone, while Manisha sat quietly next to him, occasionally whispering something to their father.

The usual lively atmosphere seemed replaced with a more subdued mood tonight.

"Kya hua, aaj sab itne shaant kyun hai?" Ayesha asked, her curiosity piqued.

Aryan looked up, his gaze steady, and exchanged a brief glance with Manisha before turning back to Ayesha.

"Kuch nahi, bas aise hi," he replied casually, though his tone had an underlying seriousness.

Ayesha narrowed her eyes, not entirely convinced. Her family wasn't usually this quiet without reason.

Something was definitely going on, and the more she observed, the more she felt a sense of foreboding settle in the room.

Ayesha leaned closer to Manisha, whispering, "Bhabhi, kuch hua hai kya?" Manisha, sitting beside her, gave a slight nod.

"Kya hua, koi kuch bolega bhi?" Ayesha's voice rose in impatience. She looked around the room, searching for answers.

Aryan finally broke the silence, looking directly at her. "We were talking about your marriage," he said, his tone measured.

Ayesha's heart skipped a beat. Marriage? Now? She wasn't prepared for this conversation.

"What do you think about Ashish, beta?" her father, Dhirendra, asked gently, his eyes fixed on her.

"Ashu?" Ayesha echoed, her mind immediately flashing back to the conversation she had overheard during Aryan's wedding about Ashish. She had pushed it aside then, but now, it was front and center.

"Yes," her mother added softly. "Dekho, tum dono bachpan se dost ho. You both know each other very well. Ashish's parents brought this proposal even before Aryan's wedding."

Ayesha's brow furrowed. "Par Maa, Ashish se?" she asked, trying to wrap her mind around the idea of marrying her childhood friend.Marriage? It was a big step.

"Just think about it, Ayesha," Dhirendra intervened again, his voice calm yet insistent. "Ashish's father is my friend, and overall, Ashish and you have known each other since childhood. This isn't a decision you have to make right now, but it's something to consider."

Her father's words echoed in her mind. Ashish's family had already expressed their interest before Aryan's wedding. Ayesha felt the weight of everyone's expectations bearing down on her.

She glanced at her brother, hoping for some support, but he seemed torn between protecting her and siding with their parents.

"We're only talking about an engagement," her father continued. "You can get married whenever you feel ready. There's no rush. But this way, there's a commitment, an understanding that you and Ashish will take this step together when the time is right."

Ayesha bit her lip, her thoughts swirling. The idea of marrying Ashish felt foreign, yet her family made it sound so logical, so seamless. He was her Bestfriend, yes, but could she see him as her life partner? And what about the restlessness she felt around Vihaan? That was something she hadn't even begun to understand.

"I... I need some time to think," she finally managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

"No one is going to force you, and you don't need to marry just to fulfill anyone's interests. I know you understand what I mean," Aryan said, his voice firm yet reassuring.

Ayesha glanced at her brother, a wave of relief washing over her momentarily. But it was short-lived. The entire conversation had taken away her appetite. She stared at her plate, which now seemed unappealing despite having only taken a few bites.

"I am going to sleep," she muttered, placing the plate back on the table and standing up.

"Beta, finish your dinner," her father called after her, his tone a mix of concern and gentle insistence.

"I am not in a mood now, Papa," Ayesha replied, her voice strained as she turned away. Without looking back, she made her way to her room, feeling the weight of the evening's conversation pressing heavily on her shoulders. The murmured voices of her family followed her down the hallway, but she shut the door behind her, craving the silence.

As Ayesha walked to her room, her thoughts were a chaotic mess. The mention of marriage with Ashish had stirred up emotions she wasn't prepared to confront. Growing up, Ashish had been a constant in her life—a friend, a confidant, someone familiar. But was he someone she could imagine spending her life with? Her heart said no, and not just because of Ashish.

Unbidden, Vihaan's face flashed in her mind. She paused in the dimly lit hallway, her heart skipping a beat. Vihaan, with his intense eyes and his maddening ability to irritate and intrigue her at the same time.

Ayesha had spent months convincing herself that she didn't care about him in that way, that he was just a part of Manisha's family, someone she had to tolerate. But the more she tried to push him to the back of her mind, the more he crept into her thoughts. His teasing glances, the way he seemed to effortlessly read her moods, and that rare, faint smile he gave when he thought no one was looking—it all made her heart race in ways she didn't want to admit.

"Why am I even thinking about him right now?" she whispered to herself, her fingers clutching the edge of her bedroom door. It wasn't just about Vihaan. It was about her own confusion, her fear of making a decision that would shape the rest of her life. How could she say yes to marrying Ashish when every fiber of her being was drawn toward someone else? Someone she wasn’t even sure felt the same way about her.

She entered her room and leaned against the door, closing her eyes. Her mind replayed moments with Vihaan—the small smirks, the silent arguments through glances, the way he had looked at her during the barbecue incident.

A warmth spread through her chest, followed by frustration. Why did it have to be him? Why did the idea of marrying anyone else feel so wrong when it was Vihaan who occupied her thoughts?

She opened her eyes and sighed, feeling the confusion settle in like a heavy fog. Marrying Ashish would be simple, logical, even convenient. But her heart longed for something more—something that made her feel alive, like the unexpected electricity that buzzed in the air whenever Vihaan was near.

As she crawled into bed, Ayesha realized she wasn't ready to face these feelings head-on, not yet. All she knew was that her heart had already made its choice, even if her mind refused to admit it.

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अरे, तू मुस्कुरा दे, चाँद का bulb जलने लगे
तू चुप रहे तो मानो बहरी लगे ज़िंदगी~
तू बोल दे तो पर्दे कानों के खुलने लगे

एक बंद बोतल के जैसा काहे बैठा है?~
हाल-ए-दिल से भर दे ना glass ये हमारा रे

गुन-गुन-गुना रे, गुन-गुन-गुना रे,
गुन-गुन-गुना ये गाना~

◇

Author's POV

It had been a few weeks since Ayesha's parents brought up the topic of her marriage, and though they were eager for her to say yes, she had managed to hold them off, saying she needed more time. The pressure was mounting, but Ayesha wasn't ready yet to make such a big decision.

Ganesh Chaturthi had arrived, bringing a festive air to the Malhotra Mansion. The entire household buzzed with joy, as this year their bahu would celebrate the occasion with them for the first time.

The grand Murti of Lord Ganesha, sponsored by the family every year, stood tall in the main hall, glowing with divine energy.

With just two days left until the grand visarjan, the Malhotra family prepared for the most special rituals-the Big Puja and the distribution of prashad. It was a time of unity, devotion, and celebration.

The Rajput family had already arrived that evening, joining in the preparations, but Vihaan, as usual, was absent.

He was set to arrive directly at the time of the puja, maintaining his distance until absolutely necessary. The family was to stay until the visarjan, but for now, Vihaan remained an enigmatic presence-his arrival awaited by some more than others.

"Ayesha! Look if the fruits are cut or not, and why aren't you wearing a saree yet? You should get ready!" Parul shouted from the other room, her voice filled with urgency.

Ayesha, who was in the middle of an important call, nodded absentmindedly, trying to juggle between her work and the bustling festivities. "Haan, haan... I'll check," she replied.

But before she could even think about moving, Shruti and Suhani came rushing in, giggling and tossing flower petals at each other.

"Ayesha Di! What's this?! Still not in your saree?" Shruti teased, giving her an exaggerated pout.

"Yeah! Suhani added, pulling on Ayesha's arm dramatically.

Just then, Darsh came running in, playing catch with Duggu, who was laughing and trying to outrun them.

"Careful! Ganpati Bappa will scold you if you break something!" Darsh called out, trying to sound serious but failing as he tripped over a cushion and burst into laughter.

Shruti rolled his eyes, "Bewakoof". She muttered.

"Ayesha Di, you better get ready, or Parul aunty will dress you herself!" Shruti teased again, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Ayesha let out a sigh, "Ha,Ha ! I'm going!" she finally gave in.She hurried off, with Duggu running after her, shouting, "Don't forget the sweets, Di! Hume prashad ka taste check krke dekhna hoga na isliye jaldi aana".

The Malhotra Mansion was now bustling with activity. Rajvati, Vihaan's grandmother, sat comfortably with a few other elderly ladies, chatting away about the old days and exchanging stories of past celebrations.

Their laughter mixed with the festive air, adding to the warmth of the gathering.

In the kitchen, Parul, Suman, Mamta, and Manisha, along with Anshu, were all busy rolling out puris, frying them up in preparation for the grand prashad. The smell of fresh ghee filled the air, making everyone's stomachs rumble in anticipation.

Manisha expertly flipped a golden puri while laughing at something Anshu said, her hands moving in sync with the rhythm of the kitchen's energy.

The men of the house, meanwhile, were taking care of the guests who had come for the darshan of Lord Ganesha. Aryan and Ashish few servants helping them were making sure everyone was comfortable, passing around water and ensuring everyone had what they needed.

Dhirendra, on the other hand, was coordinating with the pandit ji, who was yet to arrive, making sure everything was in place for the grand puja.

The mood was one of excitement and devotion, with everyone waiting for the rituals to begin.

Ayesha stood in front of the mirror, a bit flustered, trying to wrap her Marathi-style saree correctly. The saree was a vibrant green silk with a rich gold border that shimmered in the light.

She had already slipped into her matching gold blouse, the sleeves intricately embroidered, but the saree draping wasn't going as smoothly as she had hoped.

"Shriiistiii, help!" Ayesha whined, her voice filled with frustration.

Shristi, who was already dressed in her own stunning purple saree, walked in. "Aree, Ayesha! Every time, yaar. You could've learned this by now," she said, shaking her head.

Ayesha pouted. "Tu ache se nahi kar rahi, aise karte hain," she muttered, attempting to fix the pleats herself.

With a sigh, Shristi stepped in, quickly adjusting the pleats and tucking them into the waistband, making the saree fall elegantly into place. "There! Perfect. Now stop fussing."

Ayesha smiled at her reflection, admiring the traditional nauvari drape. She adorned herself with nath (a traditional Maharashtrian nose ring), its delicate pearls accentuating her sharp features.

Her jhumkas swayed with every movement, gold and green, matching her saree perfectly. Around her neck, she wore a bold choker with tiny beads, giving her look a regal charm.

Shristi, not missing the chance to tease, said, "Bas kar, queen. You look ready to rule Maharashtra."

"Shut up!" Ayesha laughed, swatting at her playfully.

Moving on to her makeup, she applied a soft foundation and a hint of rosy blush. Her eyes were lined with black kohl, and the golden shimmer on her eyelids made them sparkle.

A thin line of eyeliner, coupled with mascara, completed her eye makeup. She finished it with a deep red bindi on her forehead and a pop of crimson lipstick, her lips curved into a satisfied smile.

Shristi stood back, hands on her hips.
Ayesha rolled her eyes but blushed slightly, adjusting her bangles-green glass ones mixed with gold, the soft tinkling a constant reminder of the festive occasion.

She fastened a kamarpatta (waist belt) around her midriff, cinching the saree into place, and finally, she added a few fresh jasmine flowers to her hair bun, their fragrance subtle yet refreshing.

"Phew, all done," Ayesha said, taking one last look in the mirror.

"Yeah, yeah. Now let's go before your mom loses it," Shristi teased, dragging Ayesha out of the room with a laugh.

Ayesha's POV

I was focused, creating a large, intricate rangoli with Shristi and a few of my cousins. "Aree, idhar flower bnao, yeh nahi," I said, correcting Anshu, who was huffing in frustration.

"Wait, add those flowers there," Bhabhi called out, coming up behind me, holding a plate full of vibrant gulmohar garlands.

"Ayesha, apna dupatta theek kar lijiye, kisi ka pair lag jayega," Bhabhi gently reminded me.

"Ji, Bhabhi," I replied, moving the pallu of my saree slightly out of the way, watching as she moved on to help others.

My mother, Suman aunty, and Mamta aunty walked over, chatting away. Mamta aunty playfully hit Shruti on the head and said, "Ayesha beta, isse bhi kuch dhang ka sikhha dena."

Shruti pouted and whined, "Maa!"

I chuckled at the playful banter and teased Shruti a bit more, enjoying the light-hearted atmosphere. But as I leaned down to adjust the rangoli, I suddenly felt a tug on my dupatta. Someone had stepped on my pallu.

I turned around, irritation evident on my face, and my eyes landed on Vihaan ji. My brows furrowed, and I glared at him, feeling totally annoyed.

"Really?" I muttered under my breath, frowning at him, wondering how he could be so careless, especially with everyone bustling around for the puja.

Vihaan ji looked down, realizing what he'd done.

"I am sorry," he said, stepping back immediately.

I huffed, straightening my dupatta. "Dupatta wala mera moment ho nahi raha aur lafango jaisa moment aap poora kar dete hain," I muttered, clearly annoyed.

He looked at me, raising an eyebrow, and for a second, I caught the hint of a smirk threatening to appear on his face. That only made my irritation grow, but his silence and the way his eyes held mine were unsettling, like he was trying to figure me out.

"Ayesha, don't say it like that," my mother scolded gently.

"Maa, inko dekho toh! Har baar pareshan hi karte hain. Batao, mera pallu kharab kar diya," I complained, glaring at Vihaan ji, who just stood there, still wearing that calm expression.

"Yeh toh hai hi burbak," Suman aunty chimed in with a chuckle, shaking her head in mock disapproval.

Vihaan ji gave a faint smile at Suman aunty's comment but remained silent, his eyes flickering between me and the rest of the ladies, probably trying to decide whether to defend himself or just accept his fate.

I crossed my arms, still glaring at him. "Dekha? Sabko pata hai," I added, not ready to let him off so easily.

"Toh aap kyun aise apne pallu ko phela ke baithi hain?" he said with a teasing smirk and, before I could even respond, bent down to gently place my pallu in my lap.

Suman aunty's eyebrow shot up, clearly amused by his boldness. Mamta aunty looked at him too, hiding a smile behind her hand. Thankfully, my mother, who was busy helping Suhani di, didn't notice anything, but I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks.

His proximity made my heart race, and I quickly glanced away, hoping no one would catch how flustered I was. My fingers instinctively adjusted the pallu, but the blush on my face refused to leave.

The hustle and bustle of the house slowly quieted down as the sound of the conch echoed through the Malhotra Mansion.

The guests began to gather near the grand hall where the Ganesh murti was placed, beautifully adorned with garlands of marigolds and jasmine. The idol stood tall, glowing under the soft lights, casting a divine aura throughout the space.

The scent of incense and flowers filled the air, mixing with the faint hum of devotional songs.

I quickly made my way to the hall after fixing my pallu for the hundredth time. Everyone was dressed in their finest traditional wear. The women were in vibrant saris, the men in crisp kurtas, and the air was charged with excitement.

The soft tinkling of anklets, the rustling of silk, and the murmurs of prayer added to the sanctity of the moment.

As I stepped closer to the idol, I saw Vihaan ji standing near the front, his hands folded, his face solemn. For a brief second, my eyes lingered on him, his profile illuminated by the flickering diya. I quickly turned my gaze away, focusing on the task at hand. I could still feel the faint warmth of embarrassment from our earlier interaction.

Suman aunty and Mamta aunty were busy organizing the plates of offerings-coconuts, fruits, flowers, and sweets-while my mother was giving last-minute instructions to everyone. "Ayesha, beta, make sure the thali is ready," she called out. I nodded and hurried over to prepare the plate for the aarti.

The atmosphere was lively yet serene. Suhani di and Manisha bhabhi were helping distribute prasad to the early guests, while Duggu and Darsh were guiding the elders to their seats.

Pandit ji finally arrived, and soon, the chants of mantras began to fill the room. The rhythmic chanting, combined with the ringing of bells and the beats of the dhol, created a powerful spiritual ambiance.

Everyone stood with folded hands, their eyes closed, offering their prayers to Lord Ganesha. I joined the crowd, standing beside Shristi and Anshu, trying to focus on the prayer, but my mind kept wandering to the earlier encounter with Vihaan ji. I shook my head, trying to push away the thoughts and concentrate on the blessings being asked for.

The aarti began, and Pandit ji guided the family through the prayers. As the diya was passed around, I caught a glimpse of Vihaan ji again, his head slightly bowed in reverence, his usual aloofness replaced with quiet devotion. My heart felt strange seeing this side of him-calm, almost peaceful. It was different from the teasing banter we usually shared.

Suddenly, I felt a nudge from Shristi. "Kitna ghooregi unko " she whispered, smirking.

I shot her a glare, heat rising to my cheeks again. "I wasn't," I whispered back, trying to sound convincing, but the playful glint in her eyes told me she wasn't buying it. I quickly turned my focus back to the aarti, taking the diya in my hands when it came my turn, praying silently for peace, health, and-though I wouldn't admit it-a little clarity about the confusing emotions swirling inside me.

The sound of bells grew louder as everyone joined in the final aarti, singing together in praise of Lord Ganesha. The energy in the room swelled, and for a moment, it felt like the divine presence was palpable, blessing everyone gathered there.

As the aarti ended, the room echoed with a collective Ganpati Bappa Morya!, everyone clapping and cheering. The atmosphere was filled with joy and devotion. Pandit ji blessed the family, and the elders took turns giving their offerings at the feet of the deity.

Once the formal prayers concluded, everyone began to relax, and the chatter resumed. Plates of prasad were passed around, and the guests mingled, exchanging pleasantries. Suman aunty was busy serving the guests, and I saw Mamta aunty heading to the kitchen to help with the puri preparations for the feast that would follow. My mother smiled at me, signaling everything was going smoothly, and I let out a small sigh of relief.

I felt someone presence behind me. Turning around, I found Vihaan ji standing behind me, his usual unreadable expression in place. "You look distracted," he said, his voice low.

I frowned. "I'm not distracted. Just... focused on the puja."

He smirked slightly. "Sure. Focused on what, exactly?"

I rolled my eyes, trying to ignore the flutter in my chest. "The puja, obviously. Don't you have better things to do than bother me?"

His smirk grew, and before he could reply, Aryan Bhaiya called him over to help with something, leaving me standing there, slightly flustered but relieved.

As I watched him walk away, I couldn't help but wonder what was going on in his mind during this Ganesh Chaturthi. There was something different about him today, something that made me uneasy, and yet, I couldn't stop thinking about it.

Shristi nudged me again, grinning. "You're staring again."

I groaned. "I'm not!"

"Sure you're not," she teased, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the small smile that crept onto my face. There was something in the air tonight, something that felt like it could change everything.

As the puja continued, I felt a wave of excitement ripple through the room. The atmosphere was electric with devotion and joy. Just then, Krish bhai called Shristi, his voice booming through the crowd.His teasing laughter echoed, causing Shristi's cheeks to flush bright red.

I couldn't resist the urge to poke fun at her. "Kya baat hai pyar ikrar shaadi phir..." I teased, prompting her to playfully swat at me. "Shut up!" she shot back, mock indignation in her tone, and we both burst into laughter.

As we settled into the next part of the puja, my parents took the lead, sitting at the front as the main officiators. My mom and dad performed the aarti first, their hands moving gracefully as they offered their prayers to the deity. The sound of the bells rang melodiously, and the scent of incense swirled around us like a warm embrace.

Next were Suman aunty and Uncle, followed by Mamta aunty and Uncle. The relatives filled in one by one, each participating with heartfelt devotion. Bhabhi and Bhaiya stood next, their expressions serene as they took turns offering their prayers.

Then it was Duggu and Darsh's turn. They stood side by side, a mix of seriousness and a hint of mischief in their eyes as they performed the aarti, trying to impress everyone around. Anshu and Suhani di followed them, their devotion evident as they joined hands and focused intently on the ritual.

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I’ve poured a lot of time and effort into this story, planning exciting twists and turns to make it even more engaging in the upcoming chapters. However, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the recent lack of interaction. The views and votes have significantly dropped, and it makes me wonder if the story has lost its charm for you.😕

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दिल की ख़ता भी है क्या?
मुझको गिला भी है क्या?
इस दिल्लगी के सिवा
दिल ने किया भी है क्या?

आशिक़ है ये, चोर नहीं है, मैं क्या करूँ?
दिल पे मेरा ज़ोर नहीं है, मैं क्या करूँ?
आशिक़ है ये, चोर नहीं है, मैं क्या करूँ?
दिल पे मेरा ज़ोर नहीं है, मैं क्या करूँ?

✷

Ayesha POV

As the last of the relatives finished their aarti, Mummy called out, her voice gentle but firm, “Beta, tum teeno sath mai he kr lo aarti.”

I looked at Ashish, who stood next to me, his face expressionless. He nodded in response to my mom's instructions. But something about him seemed off today.

His usual vibrant energy was replaced with a quiet stillness, and his pale complexion and the dark circles under his eyes had only grown more noticeable.

I couldn’t help but worry about him. It had been a while since we last had a proper conversation, and I made a mental note to ask him about it later. I wanted to make sure he was okay.

For now, we all took our places—me in the middle, Ashu to my right, and Vihaan ji to my left. The aarti diya was passed to us, and I held it with both hands, trying to focus on the prayers.

But I couldn’t ignore the slight tension in the air, especially between Ashish and me. There was something unspoken, lingering, but the ritual called for our attention.

The flickering flame illuminated our faces, and I stole a quick glance at Ashu, trying to gauge his mood. He caught my eye for a brief moment, offering me a small, tired smile.

His gaze quickly shifted to the diya, but I saw the weariness in his eyes. He seemed so distant lately, and I wondered why.

Vihaan ji, standing so close to me, seemed focused on the ritual, his usual cold demeanor softened in this intimate moment.

I could feel the heat radiating from his presence, a stark contrast to the chill I felt from Ashish. I pushed the thoughts aside, trying to stay in the moment.

As we completed the aarti, the energy in the room seemed to shift. Everyone had gathered, their faces filled with devotion, and the room was filled with the scent of incense and the sound of chanting. But for me, something felt unresolved.

Once the prayer was over, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I needed to check on him, to make sure he wasn’t hiding something behind that quiet facade. But for now, all I could do was silently offer my own prayers for his well-being, as we stood together, a trio bound by more than just the ritual.

Timeskip

It was almost 10 past, and the house was quieter now, with the guests having left. The vibrant atmosphere had slowly faded, leaving behind the soft glow of the lamps and the lingering scent of incense in the air. Now, it was time for us to eat.

We decided to serve ourselves this time, not wanting to burden the servants who had worked tirelessly all day. They deserved a break, and we figured we could handle it for once.

Shristi had fallen asleep in my room, utterly exhausted from the day’s events. I planned on taking her dinner to my room later so she wouldn’t miss out on the meal.

Darsh, with his usual teasing grin, leaned forward as Anshu served him some puris.
"1 chahiye sirf," he said dramatically, holding up his plate.

Anshu, without missing a beat, placed one puri on his plate and was about to move forward when Darsh shot his signature smirk and said, "1 aur dena."

Anshu rolled her eyes, but obliged, placing another puri on his plate. "Happy now?" she muttered under her breath.

Just as Anshu was about to continue serving, Darsh leaned in again, his grin widening, "1 aur—"

Before he could finish his sentence, Mamta aunty, who had been quietly observing, cut him off with a playful tone. "Kyu bichare ko pareshan kr rha hai?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Anshu, a little exasperated but still maintaining her playful composure, turned to Mamta aunty. "Dekhiye na aunty," she said, gesturing to Darsh.

Pummy aunty Anshu Mother, overhearing the conversation, joined in with a teasing smile. "Isme pareshani kaise."

Author POV

Ayesha, after serving a few people and distributing the sabzi, moved forward to serve Vihaan, who was lazily scrolling through his phone, seemingly lost in his own world.

Vihaan, noticing her approach, looked up for a moment. His gaze briefly met hers before shifting down to his plate.

"Don't serve too much," he said, his tone casual yet firm, as though he already knew the tendency of others to serve him more than he needed.

Ayesha raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching slightly as she tried to hide her smirk. "As if I serve too much," she teased, the playful challenge clear in her voice.

Vihaan, looking back down at his phone, shrugged, clearly not wanting to argue but still maintaining his calm, indifferent demeanor. "I’m just saying," he muttered, focusing back on his screen.

Ayesha, still with that glint of amusement in her eyes, served him just the right amount, not too much, not too little—exactly as requested.

"Happy now?" she asked, her tone teasing but sweet as she moved on to serve the others.

Vihaan didn't look up, but the slight curve of his lips betrayed that he had enjoyed the banter. "Perfect," he replied quietly.

Slowly, everyone had finished their meal and left the dining area. Ayesha, who had been serving the younger ones earlier, was now sitting quietly at the table, eating slowly.

She winced slightly, feeling the sting in her fingers from the small cuts and burns she had gotten earlier when reheating the sabzi.

Anshu got up, heading towards the kitchen, and Ayesha glanced over at Vihaan, who was still leisurely eating, unfazed by the passage of time.

"Apka khana abhi tak nahi hua? Abhi tak baithe hue ho" Ayesha teased, raising an eyebrow as she wiped her fingers gently.

Vihaan, without looking up, shrugged and said casually, "I’m eating." He took another bite, his focus still on his plate, as if in no rush.

Now, it was just Suhani, Vihaan, and Ayesha left at the table. The room, filled with the faint hum of conversation from earlier, was now quieter, and the air was comfortable, but Ayesha's attention kept drifting toward Vihaan.

She watched him for a moment, trying not to show that she was irritated by his laid-back attitude.

As Suhani finished up and stood to leave, Ayesha's gaze lingered on Vihaan, who, despite her playful complaint, remained oblivious to her teasing, calmly finishing his meal.

Vihaan and Ayesha sat at the table, both scrolling through their phones, occasionally stealing glances at each other when they thought the other wasn't looking. The room was quiet, save for the soft clicking of utensils and the hum of the fan.

Ayesha, lost in thought, found herself staring at Vihaan a little too long. He noticed her gaze, and without missing a beat, he smirked.

Taking another bite, he casually remarked, "Itna bhi mat dekhiye, pyar ho jayega."

Ayesha, caught off guard, blinked rapidly and quickly looked away, her cheeks flushing with a hint of embarrassment. "Main toh bas dekh rahi thi aap kitni der laga rhe ho," she shot back, trying to cover her flustered reaction with a playful tone.

Vihaan chuckled, enjoying the moment, while Ayesha busied herself with her phone, pretending to ignore him, though a small smile tugged at her lips.

Ayesha was heading towards the kitchen to throw her leaf plate in the dustbin when, all of a sudden, the lights went out, plunging the room into darkness.

Startled, she quickly threw the plate into the bin and turned toward the sink to wash her hands. Although she couldn't see much, she moved confidently, knowing the layout of the house well.

As she reached out for the tap, she suddenly felt a tug on her pallu from behind. She froze for a second, her heart racing, before she quickly turned around.

In the dim moonlight filtering through the window, Vihaan's face became partially visible. The soft glow highlighted his sharp features, and a few strands of his hair danced on his forehead. His expression held a hint of mischief but also a trace of uncertainty.

"Yai yai kya bacho jaise harqat kar rhe hai aap?" Ayesha said, narrowing her eyes as she snatched her pallu back, her voice holding both surprise and amusement.

Vihaan stood there for a moment, blinking, as if unsure how to respond, then chuckled softly, his usual confidence returning. "Lights off hogayi the..and.." he trailed off, scratching the back of his neck, a sheepish grin spreading across his lips.

Ayesha couldn't help but grin. “Kya hua? Aap toh bohot daring bante hai, aur ab andhere se dar gaye?" she teased, raising an eyebrow.

Vihaan, visibly trying to mask his discomfort, quickly stood up straighter and brushed his hair back. “Dar nahi gaya, bas... yeh andhera achanak se...,” he trailed off, trying to come up with a convincing excuse. “Main toh bas... apka pallu pakad raha tha... to make sure aap bhi theek ho.”

Ayesha laughed, clearly enjoying this rare moment of seeing him unnerved. “Haan haan, main dekh rahi hoon, kaise mere pallu ke peeche chhup rahe hai aap."

Suddenly something fell from the kitchen rack with a loud thud, Vihaan's head jerked toward the sound, his face betraying pure horror. His eyes widened, and for a second, he froze, staring in the direction of the noise.

Ayesha, noticing his reaction, couldn’t help but ask, with a mischievous smile, “Vihaan ji, are you scared?”

He quickly snapped back, trying to save face. “No... not at all!” He forced a laugh, though it came out far too nervous to be convincing. “I mean, what’s there to be scared of, right?”

Ayesha smirked, leaning in closer with a teasing glint in her eyes. “Good, because there’s something really scary-looking standing right behind you,” she said in a low, ominous tone.

Before Vihaan could even process her words, a black cat suddenly leaped through the window, brushing past him. The unexpected movement and the eerie timing sent Vihaan over the edge.

He let out a panicked scream, “Aaaaaa… Mummmyyyy!” and instinctively grabbed Ayesha in a tight hug, his heart racing.

Ayesha, now fully giggling, could barely keep herself together. She was caught off guard by his reaction but found it absolutely hilarious. “Vihaan ji, it's just a cat!” she managed to say between laughs, patting his back lightly.

Vihaan, still holding onto her, opened one eye to peek and, realizing it was just a harmless cat, quickly released her.

He tried to regain his composure, straightening his shirt and brushing off his panic. “I knew that. I was just… protecting you,” he said, avoiding her gaze.

Ayesha laughed even harder. “Haan haan, mujhe bachane ke liye mummy ko bula rahe the, right?” she teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Vihaan, ignoring Ayesha's teasing, felt his face flush but acted unbothered. Without saying much, he grabbed her pallu again, wrapping it around his fingers absentmindedly. “Mera room?” he asked, his voice steady but his gaze a little flustered.

Ayesha shook her head in amusement. “Chaliye,” she said, turning on the flashlight on her phone as they climbed the stairs.

“Iss room ke baad hai,” she pointed out while they ascended.

When they reached her room, Ayesha stopped and said, “This is my room.”

Just as the lights flickered back on, Vihaan stood by as Ayesha pushed the door open. She was about to turn to say something when her eyes widened, and she screamed in surprise.

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लाखो दुआएं मांगी है ~
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◇ 

Ayesha POV

"Tum log yaha kya kar rahe ho?" I shouted, glaring at all of them-Anshu, Duggu, Suhani, Darsh, Shruti-and then my eyes landed on Shristi, who had been sleeping in my room but was now awake, rubbing her eyes.

I rolled my eyes, feeling my patience thin.

"We were waiting for you," Shruti chimed in cheerfully.

"To watch a movie," Duggu added, with an eager grin.

"Together," Darsh said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

"Yes, all of us," Anshu confirmed with a smile.

"Oh hell no," I said, shaking my head. "I'm tired, I have office work, and kal uthna nahi hai kya sabko? Jaldi?"

I swung the door open fully, revealing Vihaan ji standing behind me. His expression was calm but his eyes scanned the room, taking in the scene.

His gaze landed on his cousins, who immediately straightened up, as if silently reprimanded by his mere presence.

That was all it took for them to scramble.

Darsh and Shruti quickly mumbled, "Good night," and hurriedly said their goodbyes, making their exit from the room.

I felt a small pang of guilt watching them leave. They were just trying to have some fun, but I couldn't help it-I was exhausted, and work was still looming over me.

I sighed, glancing at Vihaan ji. His expression remained unreadable, but for a moment, I thought I saw the faintest hint of amusement in his eyes.

"Good night," Vihaan ji mumbled before heading to the room beside mine.

I just nodded, watching as he left, then turned my gaze back to Anshu and Duggu, who were still lounging around, clearly waiting for something. I raised an eyebrow, giving them a pointed look.

"Alright, my dear donkey cousins, good night," I said with a tight-lipped smile, trying to suppress my frustration.

They both groaned dramatically but finally stood up. "Good night," they muttered in unison, dragging their feet as they shuffled out of the room.

I let out a long sigh of relief as the door clicked shut behind them.

I didn't sit on the bed right away. Instead, I quickly grabbed my clothes from the closet and headed to the washroom to freshen up. The exhaustion was really catching up to me, and I needed to wash the day off.

After a few minutes, I came back, feeling a bit more refreshed. Sprawling onto the bed, I sighed in relief. "Hayye, mere duniya," I muttered under my breath, finally feeling like I could relax.

"Hatt!" I said, nudging Shristi to the side to make space. But oops, I pushed her a little too hard, and she tumbled off the bed.

"Kamini!" she groaned from the floor, glaring up at me, half annoyed, half amused.

I couldn't help but laugh, throwing a pillow in her direction.

"Pta hai, niche kya hua unke sath?" I said, trying to sound casual, but I couldn't help the nervous excitement bubbling up inside.

"Kya hua? Kya hua?" Shristi asked, practically bouncing on the bed. "Wait, don't tell me he kissed you! My gawddd, finally meri baby ne kiss kiya!"

I quickly shook my head, making a face of fake disgust. "No!"

"Ok, ok! Tell me!" she insisted, her eyes wide with anticipation.

I took a deep breath, knowing I was about to spill the details. "So, after the lights went out, I was just trying to wash my hands when Vihaan ji , out of nowhere, grabbed my pallu."

Shristi gasped, her mouth hanging open. "What? Like he was trying to pull you back?"

"No!" I said, rolling my eyes. "He was scared ."

"No way! Phir?" Shristi urged, completely absorbed in the story.

I chuckled, recalling the moment. "I told him he was acting like a kid scared of the dark. Then, when that black cat jumped through the window, he screamed Mummyyy and hugged me!"

Shristi squealed, her excitement palpable. "He hugged you? Oh my gosh! That's so cute! Did you feel butterflies?"

"Ugh, don't be ridiculous! It was just a reaction to the cat," I insisted, trying to sound nonchalant. "I was just shocked!"

"Sure, keep telling yourself that," she teased, her grin widening. "This is definitely the start of something cute!"

"Stop it!" I laughed, pushing her playfully.

Shristi's teasing smile grew more wider. "Aww, pehla pehla pyaar hai, pehli pehli baar hai!"

"Chup kar ja," I said, quickly turning off the light. The room was now cloaked in darkness, but I could still feel my cheeks burning.

I set an alarm for 3 AM, hoping to cut off any further embarrassing conversations.

Shristi chuckled softly in the dark. "Sure, Ayesha. Whatever you say!"

I buried my face in my pillow, trying to hide my smile.

Here’s an extended version from Vihaan's POV:

---

Vihaan's POV

I stared at the ceiling, unable to shake off the thoughts swirling in my mind. I’m mature enough, aren’t I? So why the hell can’t I figure out if I like her or not? Is it even just about liking her? Or… is it more than that? Is it love?

The thought made my chest tighten. Love? Me? I couldn’t even wrap my head around the idea. But every time I’m around her, there’s this nagging feeling, a pull I can’t ignore. She’s different, but in a way that makes me restless, unsettled.

Frustrated, I tossed the covers aside. There was no point trying to sleep. I grabbed my laptop, the only thing that gave me some sense of control. I knew it was ridiculous to think about work during an auspicious event like this, but it was the only thing that could calm my mind.

With the faint glow of the screen lighting up the dark room, I tried to immerse myself in the familiar tasks, but my thoughts kept drifting back to her—her laugh, the way she talks, the way she looks at me when she thinks I’m not paying attention.

Damn it, I muttered under my breath, running a hand through my hair. Why is it so difficult to figure this out?

Here’s an extended continuation:

---

Vihaan’s POV

It was 5 in the morning when I jolted awake, blinking against the soft glow of the laptop screen. My neck ached, and my back felt stiff. I glanced down and realized the laptop was still on my lap, a faint hum emanating from it. I hadn’t even realized when I had dozed off.

Great, I thought, rubbing my temples. Another sleepless night, another round of confusing thoughts.

I closed the laptop with a sigh, placing it beside me. The room was still dim, and outside, the first signs of dawn peeked through the curtains. My mind was foggy, but my thoughts instantly returned to her. Ayesha.

What was it about her that kept me up all night? It wasn’t just attraction. It was more complicated, more... intense. I sat up, stretching slightly, trying to shake off the lingering confusion. Maybe I’m overthinking this, I tried telling myself, but I knew better. Every time I’m near her, something shifts.

I stared at the faint orange glow from the horizon outside, wondering if today would bring any more clarity.

I stepped out of the bathroom, feeling the coolness of the early morning air hit my skin, but the clarity I was hoping for still eluded me. The events of last night, the confusion about my feelings for Ayesha, lingered like an unfinished thought.

Trying to push it aside, I moved towards my suitcase. I had a busy day ahead, and the last thing I needed was to be distracted by confusing emotions. I reached for the shirt I had carefully laid out for today. Yahi toh rakha tha... I muttered, lifting a few items off the top.

But the shirt wasn’t there.

Frowning, I dug deeper into the neatly packed clothes. I was sure I had put it right there. I searched through every corner of the small suitcase, frustration slowly building. Where could it have gone? It wasn’t like my stuff could just disappear. As I rummaged, the events of day before yesterday evening came rushing back to me.

Flashback

I was lying on my bed, my laptop balanced on my legs as I typed furiously, trying to meet a work deadline before packing up. The suitcase was already open beside me, half-packed, with my shirt carefully folded on the bed, ready for the Day

That’s when Maa walked into the room, carrying two outfits in her hands, her face serious but determined. “Wear this on the day you arrive,” she said, placing a simple kurta pajama on top of the suitcase. “And this after that,” she continued, putting down another outfit—a kurta and dhoti.

I didn’t even bother looking up, still absorbed in my work. “Maa, I’ll wear the first one, but I’m not wearing the second,” I said absentmindedly, my eyes still fixed on the laptop screen.

Maa stood there for a moment, clearly not happy with my dismissive response. She stepped closer, folding her arms. “Aap meri baat nahi maanege?” Her tone was soft but sharp enough to pull me out of my work bubble.

I glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “What’s wrong with the shirt I already picked?” I asked, knowing full well this conversation wasn’t going to end the way I wanted.

“When we went shopping, Parul ji told me sab ladke yahi pehnege,” she started, her voice taking on that familiar persuasive tone. “Aur aap kya, office ke attire mein ghoomenge?” She added a small pout for good measure, trying to guilt-trip me like she always did.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair, torn between focusing on work and dealing with this conversation. “Maa, I’m going to wear the shirt another day, just not the kurta dhoti today.”

Maa gave me that disappointed look that only mothers seem to master, shaking her head as she left the room, muttering something about how I never listen.

Flashback ends

I blinked, realizing exactly what had happened. My carefully chosen shirt wasn’t missing—it had been replaced. Replaced by the kurta dhoti Maa insisted on. Of course, this was her doing.

I held up the outfit, shaking my head. “Wow,” I muttered to myself. Typical Maa. I couldn’t even be mad, but I knew exactly why this had happened. She wanted me to wear this, and she wasn’t going to leave it to chance. My perfectly planned look had been sabotaged.

I stood there, staring at the traditional outfit she had laid out for me. “So, I guess this is what I’m wearing today,” I said to myself.There was no point fighting it.

Reluctantly, I began to unfold the kurta. It wasn’t bad, I guess. Maybe I’d even pull it off. I just hoped today wouldn’t be as complicated as my emotions were right now. With Ayesha on my mind, and now this, I could only imagine what else the day had in store for me.

I shook my head, amused at the thought. Of course, I knew how to wear it. It’s not like I’d forgotten my traditional roots after all these years. Adjusting the kurta and tying the dhoti properly, I felt a bit more at ease. It wasn’t so bad, and the outfit had a certain charm. I slipped on my watch, a familiar piece of my everyday look, and ran a comb through my hair to finish the touch.

As I opened the door, stepping out into the hallway, I was immediately greeted by a hard bump.

"Ouch!" came the small yelp from whoever I had just collided with.

I glanced down, my eyes falling on none other than Shristi, rubbing her forehead dramatically as she stood in front of me. I sighed, rolling my eyes at her antics.

"Careful next time," I said, but before I could say more, her eyes lit up in mock surprise, and she pointed at me.

"Ohoo, jiju—" she started, her voice trailing off as she stopped herself from completing the sentence.

I raised an eyebrow, confused. "Jiju?" I asked, not sure why she was suddenly giving me that relation as if she was in on some big joke I didn’t understand.

She quickly clamped her mouth shut, glancing around as if she had said something she wasn’t supposed to. Her eyes darted from me to the door she had just come through, and she cleared her throat, suddenly looking suspiciously innocent.

“What?” I asked, folding my arms, giving her a look. Shristi was always playful, but something was definitely up.

“Oh, nothing!” she chirped, smiling way too brightly for it to be normal. “Just, you know, wasn’t expecting you to look so… traditional today.”

I raised an eyebrow, not buying her excuse. “That’s it?”

She nodded quickly, but her mischievous grin told me there was more to it. Before I could question her further, she suddenly skipped off down the hall, calling out behind her, “See you downstairs, jij-!”

There it was again—the half jij. I stood there for a moment, watching her disappear around the corner. What is she up to? I thought to myself, shaking my head. Whatever it was, I knew it couldn’t be good.

Still, I couldn’t help but smile as I made my way downstairs, adjusting my kurta once more. The day hadn’t even started yet, and I already felt like something was going to happen. And somehow, I had a feeling Ayesha was at the center of it.

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Author's POV

The Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations were winding down, marking the end of an auspicious festival that filled the air with joy and devotion.

The murti was being prepared for visarjan, the immersion ceremony that would see Lord Ganesha returned to the waters.

A lively crowd, a blend of vibrant colors and joyous chants, thronged around, while bodyguards kept a watchful eye on the festivities, especially for the prominent Malhotra and Rajput families.

Ayesha was at the heart of it all, dancing with an infectious energy that drew everyone in. A colorful turban was perched jauntily on her head, and black sunglasses shielded her eyes from the bright sun that cast a warm glow over the gathering.

She twirled and swayed, her laughter mingling with the rhythmic beats of the dhol. "Ganpati Bappa Moryaa!" echoed from her lips, and everyone around joined in, their voices rising in a jubilant chorus.

Shristi, along with the rest of their friends, danced as if the world around them had melted away. They were a whirlwind of enthusiasm, showcasing moves that could rival any dance competition.

Ayesha's spirit was infectious, and her laughter rang out like music, drawing smiles from onlookers who couldn't help but join in the celebration.

As the festivities unfolded, Vihaan ambled alongside her cousin Rudra. Like Vihaan, Rudra possessed a sharp business acumen, and they discussed their latest ventures.

But Vihaan eyes frequently drifted back to Ayesha, who was now in the center of a dance circle, captivating everyone with her enthusiasm. It was hard to concentrate on business when she was there, a dazzling light amidst the joyous chaos.

Suddenly, amidst the laughter and music, Ayesha's phone vibrated in the hands of a little kid who had her phone while she was dancing. "Eshu di!" the child exclaimed, holding the phone up eagerly, his eyes wide with anticipation.

"Thanks, cutie!" Ayesha said, reaching for her phone as she took a quick sip of water, the sun glinting off her sunglasses.

She glanced at the screen but didn't recognize the number. Curious, she answered it anyway. "Hello? Who is this?" she asked, her voice bright and lively.

Ayesha's POV

"Hello? Hello?" I kept repeating, pressing the phone closer to my ear, but there was no response. The line was silent. Frustrated, I cut the call and started moving forward, ready to rejoin the celebration. Just as I took a few steps, my phone rang again.

"Hello, help-I'm here, in the alley you just passed now. Hello, Ayesha? Do you hear me?" A deep male voice spoke on the other end.

I froze, my heart racing. The voice was unfamiliar, and I couldn't place who it was. My mind spun, trying to make sense of what was happening. Before I could say anything, the call abruptly cut off again.

I stared at the phone, confusion and unease settling in.

I looked ahead. Everyone was moving forward, lost in the celebration. Should I just check? Or ask someone else to help? A thousand thoughts raced through my mind, but time wasn't on my side.

What if someone really needed help? I decided to trust my instincts.

"I'll just take a quick look," I whispered to myself. "If I feel uneasy, I'll return immediately. I have my phone."

I shouldn't waste time. Something about that call, the urgency in the voice, kept gnawing at me. What if someone was in real danger?

Without overthinking it further, I darted toward the alley. As I entered, the noise from the celebration quickly faded behind me.

The alley was eerily quiet, almost too quiet. Shadows stretched across the narrow passage, and the cool air carried a sense of foreboding. My footsteps echoed softly as I ventured deeper, my heart pounding louder with each step.

I clutched my phone tightly, my eyes darting around, scanning the area for any sign of movement. But the alley seemed empty.

I quickly dialed the number again, hoping to connect. My heart raced as I heard the ringing tone, each second feeling like an eternity. Suddenly, the call was picked up almost immediately.

"Hello?" I said, my voice shaky.

"Please help!" the man's voice interrupted, breathless and panicked. "I'm here in the building... maybe the 3rd floor. Please... hurry."

A chill ran down my spine. I glanced up at the dark, towering building near the alley. Its windows were mostly dark, save for a dim light flickering faintly on the third floor.

I hesitated for a second, fear tugging at my instincts. Should I go inside alone? But the urgency in his voice left me little choice.

Clenching my phone tightly, I took a deep breath and made my way toward the entrance. The building seemed abandoned, with peeling paint and cracked walls. The door creaked as I pushed it open, and a faint musty smell greeted me.

I stepped inside, the dim light from my phone barely illuminating the narrow staircase.

As I began climbing the stairs, each step felt heavier, the creaks echoing around me. The third floor felt like a long way up, but I pressed on, driven by the possibility that someone genuinely needed help.

"Hold on, I'm coming," I whispered into the phone, hoping the stranger on the other end could hear me.

As I cautiously ascended the stairs, heart pounding, the dim light from my phone flickered for a second. The building was eerily quiet, every sound amplified in the stillness.

I was just a few steps away from reaching the third floor when, out of nowhere, I felt a strong grip around my waist.

Before I could react, a hand clamped over my mouth, stifling my scream. Panic surged through me as I struggled, thrashing my body in an attempt to break free. My phone slipped from my hand, clattering loudly onto the floor, the light from its screen dimming as it skidded out of reach.

"Shhh... don't make a sound," a low voice whispered in my ear, sending a cold shiver down my spine.

I kicked and squirmed, trying to free myself, but the grip tightened. The person was much stronger than I anticipated, dragging me backward effortlessly.

My breathing quickened, and my mind raced. Who was this? The voice on the phone-it had been a trap all along.

In seconds, I was pulled into a dark corner of the building, away from the staircase. My heart raced as I realized the gravity of the situation.

Heyy Bhagwan.

I attempts to scream were muffled by the hand over my mouth. I could barely think, the adrenaline coursing through me in waves of fear.

Suddenly, a cloth was pressed over my nose and mouth, and a sickly sweet scent overwhelmed my senses. My vision blurred, and everything around me began to spin.

My strength faded as my body grew weaker, my eyelids growing heavy despite my struggle to stay conscious.

The last thing I heard before everything went black was the sound of footsteps retreating into the darkness.

Vihaan POV

As we moved forward with the procession, I glanced around, expecting to see her dancing joyfully as she had been earlier.

But when I looked, she wasn't there. I scanned the crowd, my heart skipping a beat. Where did she go?

The loud music and laughter filled the air, but the sudden worry clouded my mind. I couldn't help but feel uneasy. Something didn't feel right.

I moved through the sea of people, trying to catch a glimpse of her, but she was nowhere to be seen.

I hurried over to Shristi, who was still dancing, her energy unfazed by the heat or the crowd. "Shristi!" I called out over the music, tapping her shoulder to get her attention.

She turned around, slightly out of breath. "What happened?" she asked, confused by my sudden urgency.

"Have you seen Ayesha?" I asked, my voice edged with worry.

Shristi frowned and looked around briefly. "She was just here a while ago, dancing with us. I didn't see her leave, though."

I nodded, trying to suppress the rising tension. "She must be somewhere close," I muttered, though doubt lingered in my mind. I decided to check near Ganesh ji's murti, thinking she might have gone ahead to join the others.

Ashish was up there, and if anyone knew where she was, it would be him.

I pushed through the crowd, my eyes searching every face, but I still couldn't find her. The uneasy feeling grew stronger.

When I finally reached Ashish, I found him walking near the front, focused on the procession.

"Ashish!" I called out, quickening my pace to catch up to him.

He turned around, surprised to see me in a rush. "Haa?"

"Ayesha... tumne unhe dekha hai?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the anxiety creeping in.

Ashish's expression shifted from confusion to concern in an instant. "What do you mean? She was supposed to be with the group, right? Dancing?" His eyes scanned the crowd around us, and I could see the worry spreading across his face.

"She's not there," I said, shaking my head. "I've looked everywhere, and no one has seen her since a little while ago."

Ashish's face tightened, his jaw clenched. "Where could she have gone?" he muttered under his breath, more to himself than to me. He quickly started looking around, his own tension mirroring mine.

Panic began to build in both of us. This wasn't like Ayesha to disappear like this, especially in such a crowded event.

As the procession continued, my mind was spiraling, fear gnawing at the edges of my thoughts.

The crowd moved forward, shouting Ganpati Bappa Morya! But I couldn't focus on the energy or the festivity. Where the hell is she?

Ashish had already rushed over to Aryan, her elder brother, filling him in on the situation. I could see them talking, but I stayed back, frustrated and anxious.

I kept dialing her number again and again, hoping to hear her voice, praying she'd pick up and tell me it was just a misunderstanding-that she had just wandered off.

But nothing. Each time it rang, the line would cut out, and the pit in my stomach only deepened.

I clenched my fist, my nails digging into my palm. Why does this feel wrong? Why can't I shake this feeling? It's like something's been off all day, and now it's coming to a head.

Suddenly, my phone buzzed, snapping me out of my daze.

"Yes, boss?" the person on the other end answered, a bit startled by the sharpness in my tone.

"I need Ayesha's phone location. Now. Two minutes, max," I snapped, barely keeping my frustration in check. There was no time for pleasantries.

My voice was edged with an anger I couldn't control, and fear that I was desperately trying to bury.

"Understood," he replied, hanging up quickly to start working.

I could feel my heart pounding against my chest, my mind racing with possibilities. Where could she have gone? Had something happened to her? I looked around, watching as people moved forward, laughing and chatting, blissfully unaware of the storm that was building inside me.

I didn't even realize I had started pacing.

Within a minute, my phone buzzed again.

"Boss, we have her last known location," the voice said. "It's just ahead of you, near an alley, where her phone was last active. After that, it was switched off."

I froze. My head snapped towards the direction he mentioned-an alley, not too far from where I stood. My blood ran cold. Why would she be near an alley? What was she doing there?

I tightened my grip on my phone, my jaw clenching.

I stared at the narrow passageway, the lights barely reaching its darkened entrance. Something was wrong. Very wrong.

I hung up the phone and turned to Ashish, who was now coming back from Aryan. "I've got her last location," I said, my voice hard and cold. "It's near an alley up ahead. Her phone's been switched off."

Ashish's eyes widened, his own fear mirroring mine. "Let's go. Now."

Without waiting for another word, we moved towards the alley, my pulse thundering in my ears. I wasn't sure what we'd find there, but one thing was clear-I wasn't leaving until I found her.

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Vihaan’s POV

It had been three agonizing hours since she went missing, and the tension was thick in the air. Everyone knew by now. The news had spread like wildfire among the families, and the atmosphere had turned grim.

Parul aunty couldn’t stop crying. Her face was buried in her hands as my mother and Manisha tried to console her, though they, too, were shaken.

Shristi, usually the one with endless energy, had cried for a while but had stopped now, sitting quietly in the corner, her eyes puffy and red. She didn’t seem to know how to process what was happening.

Everyone was taken aback by the sudden disappearance, a festivity turned into a nightmare in the blink of an eye.

As I stood there, my thoughts flashed back to when we reached the alley—the last place Ayesha’s phone had pinged.

Flashback

“Ayesha?” Aryan had called out her name, his voice filled with desperation as we reached the building.

I could see the tension in his posture, the fear in his eyes. But we had to stay calm, focused. We couldn’t let panic take over.

We slowly moved inside, every step careful, trying not to make a sound. The building was eerily quiet, the kind of quiet that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

I gestured for everyone to stay silent, bringing my finger to my lips as we huddled near the entrance.

Using hand signals, I quickly divided the group. I raised two fingers and pointed at Ashish, signaling him to check the second floor. He gave a sharp nod, understanding immediately.

Then, I pointed to myself, indicating that I’d take the third floor. I clenched my jaw, the thought of what might be waiting there sending a chill down my spine.

Aryan would take the fourth. His face was unreadable, but I knew he was fighting the same inner turmoil I was. This was his sister, after all.

Rudra, who had joined us now, stood beside me. I gave him a look, quickly briefing him. “Stay close. If anything feels wrong, get the hell out and call for backup.”

He nodded, his usual calm demeanor faltering for a moment. He was strong, but I could see the fear flickering behind his eyes. We were all on edge.

As we split up, the silence in the building felt deafening. Each creak of the floorboards beneath our feet, each gust of wind that rattled the windows, made the tension even worse.

I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was terribly wrong.

With every step I took up that dark stairwell, my heart beat faster. The thought of my Lemon alone, scared, somewhere in this building haunted me. I didn’t know what I’d find on the third floor, but whatever it was, I wasn’t leaving without her.

“I can’t lose her. I can never lose her—not now, not ever.”

The words repeated like a mantra in my head as I ascended the stairs to the third floor, my chest tight with fear. Each step felt heavier than the last, my mind racing with possibilities. Where could she be? What if something terrible had already happened?

I couldn’t let myself think that way. I had to stay focused.

The third floor was dimly lit, the air thick with dust and neglect. The corridor stretched out ahead of me, dark and ominous, as though it hadn’t seen visitors in years.

My heart pounded in my chest, and every creak of the wooden floor beneath my feet sounded louder than it should have.

I moved cautiously, my eyes scanning every corner, every shadow. There was a door slightly ajar to my left.

My hand instinctively reached for it, pushing it open just enough to peek inside. Nothing. The room was empty, filled only with the smell of damp wood and dust. I cursed under my breath and moved forward.

The silence was suffocating. All I could hear was the thumping of my heart in my ears. I checked room after room, hoping, praying I’d find her. But each time, the rooms were empty. No sign of her.

But as I neared the end of the hallway, something caught my eye. A faint glint on the floor near the far wall.

My breath caught in my throat as I stepped closer, kneeling down to pick up the object. It was her phone—broken, the screen shattered into a web of cracks.

My grip tightened around it, and a wave of anger surged through me. Someone had hurt her. Someone had taken her.

Next to the phone, scattered on the floor, were fragments of her bangles—those delicate, golden bangles she’d worn during the procession.

They lay there in pieces, glittering in the dim light like shards of broken hope.

My stomach dropped, and a sickening feeling clawed at my insides. Whoever had taken her had been here. But she wasn’t.

Ayesha wasn’t here.

I clenched my fists, the sound of the bangles crunching slightly under my shoes as I stood up. My eyes burned with fury.

I had been so close, yet she was still out of reach. I wasn’t just angry—I was terrified. Terrified of what might be happening to her at this very moment.

I couldn’t lose her. Not like this.

With shaking hands, I pocketed her broken phone and took a deep breath. I had to keep moving. She was out there somewhere, and I wouldn’t stop until I found her.

But in that empty, eerie hallway, surrounded by silence and the shattered remnants of her presence, the fear of losing her gnawed at me like never before.

Flashback ended.

I snapped back to the present, my mind still replaying the image of Ayesha’s broken phone and shattered bangles on the dusty floor. I couldn’t shake the sinking feeling in my chest, the fear that kept clawing at me with every passing second.

I looked over at Aryan. He stood a few feet away, his phone pressed to his ear, his knuckles white as he gripped it tightly. His expression was hard, but I could see the cracks beneath the surface—he was barely holding it together.

As her older brother, I understood the weight he felt. The responsibility. The helplessness.

My own hands were balled into fists at my sides. I wanted to punch something, to lash out, but there was nothing I could do right now except wait for my team.

They were combing every inch of the city, every lead, every possible place she could be. But with each minute that passed, the silence grew more suffocating.

And then there was Parul aunty.

Her cries echoed through the room, raw and heartbreaking. "Please, please do something. Meri bachi... meri Ayesha..." She sobbed, her hands clasped together as if in prayer.

"Hum paise denge, jitna chahiye unko... bas meri bachi ko wapas la do," she kept repeating, over and over, her voice trembling with desperation.

Manisha aunty and my mother sat on either side of her, trying their best to console her, but nothing could calm the terror of a mother who didn’t know where her daughter was.

I could see it in their faces too—the silent fear, the dread that hung over everyone like a thick, dark cloud.

I clenched my jaw, turning away from the heartbreaking scene for a moment to compose myself.

“Any update?” I barked into my phone, pacing in the less crowded corner of the room, my voice low but laced with tension.

“Yes, sir, we’re searching all nearby CCTV footage from the last known location. We’ll have an update soon,” the head of my security team replied, but it wasn’t enough. It was never enough. Not until she was safe.

"Make it faster," I growled, cutting the call and shoving the phone back into my pocket. My patience was wearing thin. I wasn’t just angry now—I was on edge, every muscle in my body coiled with anxiety.

Aryan hung up his own call and caught my eye. His face was hard, but I saw the same torment in his eyes that I felt in mine. Without a word, he nodded toward me, silently asking if there was any progress.

I shook my head. "Nothing yet. But we’ll find her," I said, my voice as steady as I could manage.

"We have to," Aryan muttered, rubbing his temples, exhaustion and worry etched into every line of his face.

We didn’t have the luxury of time. Every second felt like an eternity, and the thought of Ayesha being out there, scared, or worse, was unbearable.

I wouldn’t let this go on much longer.

Ayesha's POV

My eyes fluttered open, but all I could see was darkness. My head throbbed painfully, and the cold, damp air clung to my skin like ice.

I tried to move, but my body felt like it was weighed down by a thousand stones. My wrists burned, and as I struggled, I realized my hands were tied—tightly. Panic surged through me.

Where am I? What happened?

The last thing I remembered was running towards the alley. The phone call—the deep voice—then, nothing.

Now, I was here. Wherever “here” was. My breathing grew shallow as I forced myself to focus, to push past the pain and the fog clouding my thoughts.

The smell of mildew and dirt filled my nostrils, and the eerie silence around me made my heart race faster.

I blinked again, trying to adjust my eyes to the darkness, but all I could make out was a faint sliver of light coming from what looked like a crack under a door.

The space around me felt suffocating, like a cage. My body ached in places I didn’t know could hurt.

I pulled at the ropes binding my wrists, the rough fibers cutting into my skin, sending fresh waves of pain shooting up my arms.

Tears stung my eyes, but I bit my lip, refusing to cry. Crying wouldn’t help me now. I had to stay calm. I had to think.

But the more I thought, the more the terror crept in. What if no one finds me? What if I die here, alone? The thought sent a shiver down my spine. My mind raced, images of my family flashing before my eyes—Mumma, Bhai- Bhabhi ,Papa ,Ashu at last my the one I want to be here with me to save me.

Vihaan ji.

He would come for me. He had to.

I shifted again, trying to find any weak point in the ropes, but my body was too weak, and my wrists too raw. I winced as I felt something sharp scrape against my leg.

A broken shard of glass, maybe? I couldn’t see it, but I could feel it. A small piece of something amidst this hell.

I bit down on my lip harder, tasting blood now, as my breaths came in short, jagged gasps. My heart pounded in my chest, each beat like a drum against my ribs.

Every second that passed felt like a countdown to something worse, something I couldn’t even begin to imagine.

I wasn’t just scared. I was terrified.

But I couldn’t give in to that fear. Not yet. Not when there was still a chance—no matter how slim—that someone would come. Someone had to come.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps. Heavy, deliberate. They echoed through the room like a death sentence approaching.

My heart hammered in my chest as the door creaked open, the faint light from outside casting eerie shadows across the floor.

Two figures loomed in the doorway, hulking silhouettes against the dim light. My breath caught in my throat, every instinct screaming at me to run, but I couldn’t move. I was trapped.

One of them stepped forward, his boots crunching against the dirt-covered floor, his face finally coming into view.

Scarred, with a menacing grin that sent a chill down my spine, he towered over me. His eyes were cold, dead—like he’d seen things no human should ever see.

“Well, well, look who finally woke up,” he sneered, his voice deep and gravelly, sending a shudder through me. “Enjoying your stay, princess?”

I said nothing, my throat too dry to form words. I didn’t want to speak to him. I didn’t want to give him the satisfaction of hearing my voice tremble.

The other man, even larger, stepped forward, cracking his knuckles, his muscles bulging beneath his shirt. His presence alone made the air feel heavier, like the walls were closing in on me.

“She looks scared, bhai,” he chuckled darkly, his voice filled with cruel amusement. “Think we should... welcome her properly?”

“Shut up,” I whispered, my voice barely audible, but the defiance was there. Even though fear clawed at my insides, I wouldn’t let them break me—not yet.

The first man crouched down to my level, his face inches from mine now, and I could smell the stench of sweat and tobacco on his breath. His hand shot out, gripping my chin roughly, forcing me to meet his eyes.

“You’ve got spirit,” he hissed, his eyes narrowing.

“But that won’t last long, not here. Not with us.” His fingers dug painfully into my skin, and I winced but didn’t look away.

“You’ll be begging for mercy soon enough,” he continued, his voice low, threatening.

“And trust me, no one’s coming to save you. No prince charming, no family, no one. You’re all alone.”

His words twisted inside me like a knife. Alone. The thought made the room feel even colder, the darkness even thicker. But I couldn’t afford to break, not yet.

The second man laughed, a sickening sound that made my skin crawl. “She’ll learn, bhai. They all do, eventually. And when they do, it’s so much fun watching the light leave their eyes.”

I felt bile rise in my throat, a wave of nausea crashing over me as I struggled to maintain control. The way they spoke, so casual, so detached, like they’d done this before—too many times before.

“Please... just let me go,” I managed to whisper, hating the desperation that slipped into my voice.

The first man let out a low, mocking laugh. “Let you go? Oh, sweetheart, you’re not going anywhere. Not until we get what we want. And maybe... not even after that.”

He stood up, towering over me again, his shadow engulfing me completely.

“And just so you know,” he added with a smirk, “We’ll be the last voices you hear. You’ll scream for help, but no one’s coming. This place? No one even knows it exists.”

I felt the blood drain from my face. My chest tightened. Panic clawed at my mind, threatening to consume me.

This was no ordinary kidnapping. This was something far worse. They weren’t after money.They wanted something darker, something I couldn’t even fathom.

And I was their prey but why?

The larger man crouched down beside me, his grin widening. "You might want to save your strength, girl. The real fun hasn’t even started yet."

I tried to back away, but there was nowhere to go. My heart pounded in my ears, and my breath came in short, frantic gasps.

I was trapped, at their mercy. And mercy was the one thing I knew they wouldn’t give.

The larger man, the one with the cruel grin, looked over to his partner, eyes gleaming with dark amusement. “Bhai, can I have a lil’ fun?” he asked, his voice oozing with twisted excitement.

My heart raced, but I forced myself to breathe, to think. This wasn’t the time to break down. If I crumbled now, I’d lose whatever small chance I had. I wasn’t about to let them see me as weak. Not completely.

The first man, still standing over me, glanced at his companion with a raised brow. “Fun?” he repeated, a smirk curling at the edge of his lips.

I shifted, pulling at the ropes around my wrists. The coarse fibers bit into my skin, but I ignored the pain. I needed to stay alert, sharp. I wasn’t going to let them drag me down without a fight.

The larger man looked back at me, his grin never fading. “C’mon, bhai. She’s got fight in her. I can see it.”

He knelt down, his eyes level with mine, looking too pleased with the fear he saw. “It’ll be fun breaking that.”

I met his gaze, my teeth clenched, refusing to let him see the terror pooling in my chest. “Touch me,” I spat, my voice low but steady, “and you’ll regret it.”

He blinked, momentarily surprised by my defiance. But then his grin widened. “Oh, I like this one. Feisty.”

“You think you’re strong?” I continued, the words slipping out before I could second guess them.

"Darpok tumhe kya lgta hai I am scared?  Two men against a tied-up girl? That’s not strength, that’s pathetic.”

His face twitched, amusement fading, replaced with something darker. “Watch your mouth, girl. Or I’ll make sure you regret it real soon.”

I clenched my fists, feeling the rope tighten painfully around my wrists again. But I didn’t look away, even though my heart was hammering in my chest. I couldn’t show fear. Not to these monsters.

The first man stepped forward, placing a hand on his companion’s shoulder. “Enough,” he said, his voice firm, but his eyes held that same, cold amusement. “She’s not worth it. Not yet.”

He pulled the larger man back, and for a second, I allowed myself to exhale, but the tension remained in my chest.

“You talk big now,” the first man said, turning his attention back to me.

“But it won’t last. We’ll see how long that fire of yours burns. Just remember, no one’s coming. No knight in shining armor. No hero.”

I swallowed hard, the weight of his words sinking in. But I wasn’t going to let them win. Not now. Not ever.

The man’s grin widened as he slowly approached, his eyes gleaming with something dark and malicious.

"You see," he said, his voice dripping with menace, "I can do whatever I want. And no one’s going to stop me."

He crouched down beside me, his breath hot and rancid on my skin. His hand reached out, fingers brushing against my bare arm. I flinched instinctively, pulling back as much as the ropes would allow, but there was nowhere to go.

The roughness of his fingers sent a shiver down my spine as they trailed along my arm, slow and deliberate, like he was savoring every moment of my discomfort.

“What was your name again?” he asked, as if this was some casual conversation, his voice almost mocking. “Ayesha, yeah?”

I didn't respond. My mouth felt dry, my body tensing as he kept his cold stare locked on mine.

He chuckled, the sound low and cruel. “You’ve got a lot of fight, Ayesha. But it won’t matter. Not here.”

His hand moved upward, trailing from my arm to my face. He brushed his fingers across my cheek, caressing it like he owned me.

I bit down on my lip, fighting the urge to scream, the helplessness clawing at my throat.

“You’re softer than I thought,” he whispered, his voice unnervingly calm, his fingers now tangling in my hair. He gave a sharp tug, making me wince.

"But don’t worry," he added, his smile turning vicious. "We’ll have our fun soon enough."

I could barely breathe as his hand lingered in my hair, the violation sending a wave of nausea through me. My body was shaking, but I kept my gaze fixed on his, refusing to cry, refusing to break. I couldn’t give him that satisfaction.

Suddenly, he stood up, releasing his grip.

“Let’s go,” he said to his companion, brushing his hands off as though I was nothing more than dirt on his skin. His cold eyes flickered back to me one last time. "Don’t worry, Sweetheart. We’re just getting started."

With that, they turned, their laughter echoing through the dim room as they walked away.

I was left there, tied, alone, and suffocating in fear, the ropes biting into my skin as I sat helplessly on the cold floor.

Author Pov

Ashish leaned back in his chair, frustration bubbling beneath the surface as he stared at the screen. "Please be safe, my sugar.
Please," he muttered under his breath, the worry gnawing at him like a relentless beast.

He had been trying everything to find Ayesha, and each passing moment felt heavier than the last.

Suddenly, his phone buzzed, jolting him from his thoughts. He glanced at the screen and frowned. "Who is this?" he asked, his voice edged with annoyance.

For a few moments, there was silence on the other end, and just as he was about to hang up, a sinister chuckle broke through. "Oh, hii?" the voice drawled, dripping with mockery.

Ashish's heart raced. He recognized that tone—someone who reveled in chaos. "Who the hell is this?" he demanded, clenching his fists.

"You don't remember me, do you?" the voice sneered. "Let’s just say I have a score to settle. And your precious Ayesha is right in the middle of it."

Anger surged through Ashish, mixing with a cold dread. “What have you done to her?” he spat, trying to keep his voice steady despite the turmoil inside.

“Oh, she’s just fine. For now,” the voice taunted. “But let’s just say she’s in a little... predicament. A delicate flower in a storm, you could say. You’ll have to move quickly if you want to see her again.”

“Where is she? I swear, if you touch her—”

“Touch her?” the voice interrupted with a chilling laugh. “You should be more worried about what happens if you don’t play nice. Time is ticking, Ashish. You have 24 hours. After that, well… let’s just say the consequences will be dire.”

The call ended abruptly, leaving Ashish seething with rage and panic. He slammed his laptop shut, the sound echoing in the otherwise silent room. Ayesha was in danger, and he couldn’t just sit here. He had to act, and he had to act fast.

Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Ashish shot a quick text to the team, determination blazing in his eyes.

He would find her, no matter what it took. And when he did, those responsible would regret the day they ever crossed him.

Timeakip

Dhirendra’s grip on Ashish’s collar tightened, his face twisted with rage. “Yeh sab tumhari wajah se hua! Maine tum par vishwas kiya tha!”

“Tumhe pata tha ke Ayesha khatre mein hai, isliye toh tumne is saal humare liye nhi specially uske liye bodyguards rakhe the.” Dhirendra hissed, eyes blazing with fury.

“Tum hume bta skte the! Tumhe mujhe yeh batana chahiye tha!” he shouted, his voice echoing through the tense room.

“Kya bata skte the?” Vihaan’s voice cut through the tension like a knife, cold and piercing. He had just walked in, his hair tousled and a storm brewing in his eyes.

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Underedit

Tomorrow brings a hidden celebration, a mark of time's passage just for me. Whispers of wishes, candles' glow, but no ordinary day—can you decode the mystery?

~Ayu

Author's POV

“Stop!” Parul interjected, her voice cutting through the tension like a knife.

She turned towards Ashish, who had ducked his head low, bracing himself for the worst.

“I’m sorry, Mumu,” Ashish murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, shame washing over him.

Parul took his hand and brought it gently to her cheek, her eyes softening. Ashish shut his eyes, bracing for a slap, but instead felt the warm caress of her touch.

“Iss bichare ki kya galti? Huh?” Parul said, her voice trembling with both anger and concern. “Agar isse ab aap mai se kisi ne kuch bola toh—”

“Mom-” Aryan started, but she cut him off.

“Don’t you dare!” Parul shot back, her eyes blazing with maternal protectiveness. “This isn’t about blame; it’s about Ayesha. We all want her back!”

Ashish’s heart sank further, guilt flooding him. He opened his eyes, and his gaze met Parul’s.

“Ashu, it’s okay,” she said softly, her voice soothing. “It’s not your fault, hmm? We’ll find her. We have to believe that.”

The room fell silent, the weight of Parul’s words hanging heavy in the air. The love and concern she had for Ashish was palpable, and it struck a chord with everyone present.

Dhirendra, still visibly tense, glanced at Ashish, his expression softening. “We need to focus on finding her, not tearing each other apart. Parul is right.

Vihaan’s gaze lingered on Ashish, a storm of emotions brewing beneath his calm exterior.

The tension in the room was palpable, each person feeling the weight of Ayesha’s absence pressing down on them. He had to maintain his composure; losing control wouldn’t help anyone.

“I need to talk to my mother,” he finally said, breaking away from the heated discussion.

He walked through the house, the familiar decor now feeling like a distant memory of better times. When he reached the living room, his mother was sitting on the couch, worry etched across her face.

“Vihaan, are you—” she started, but he cut her off.

“Mom, I’m going to the office. I have some work to do,” he said, his voice steady but lacking warmth.

She looked at him in disbelief, her eyes wide with concern. “At a time like this? Vihaan, we should be focusing on finding Ayesha, not… not working!”

“I understand, but  I need to handle some things,” he replied, his tone leaving no room for argument.

“Promise me you’ll be careful,” she said, her voice softening.

“I promise,” he assured her, though the weight of his words felt heavy in the air. Without another word, he turned and left, determined to dive into the work ahead.

At the Office

As Vihaan entered the conference room, he was met with a crowd of employees, their faces a mix of anxiety and urgency.

They all stood around the large table, murmuring amongst themselves as they awaited his arrival. The room fell silent as he walked in, his presence commanding immediate attention.

“Thank you all for gathering on such short notice,” he began, his voice steady and authoritative. “I know this is difficult, but we need to focus.”

“Sir, we found a clip from the surveillance cameras behind the building,” one of his assistants said, holding up a tablet. “This is the van that took Ayesha ma’am.”

Vihaan leaned in, his heart racing as he looked at the video footage. The van was nondescript, blending in with the surroundings, but there was something off about it.

“No plate?” Vihaan asked, his brow furrowing.

His assistant shook his head, a look of frustration on his face. “It’s fake. We couldn’t get a clear shot of any identifying information.”

“Damn it,” Vihaan muttered under his breath, running a hand through his hair. “What about the driver? Any leads?”

“Not yet, sir. But we’re pulling footage from other angles. We’ll find something,” another employee chimed in, trying to maintain some hope in the grim atmosphere.

“Good. Keep me updated,” he ordered, his mind racing.

The room buzzed with activity as the team began brainstorming. Ideas flew back and forth, each person desperate to contribute to the search for Ayesha.

“Sir, there’s something else,” an intern spoke up hesitantly, drawing Vihaan’s attention. “We tracked a similar van spotted near the alley where Ayesha mam was last seen. It’s registered to a warehouse outside the city.”

“Get me the address,” Vihaan commanded, adrenaline coursing through his veins. “We’re checking it out.”

As he prepared to leave, he couldn’t shake the feeling of dread clawing at his insides. The clock was ticking, and Ayesha needed him now more than ever.

“Everyone, stay sharp. We’re not stopping until we bring her home,” he said, his voice firm.

With that, he strode out of the office, determination fueling his every step as he raced against time to uncover the truth.

Ayesha's POV

The silence was thick, broken only by the faint ticking of the clock on the wall. I jolted up at the sharp clicking of heels echoing down the hallway. It had been hours—three, maybe more.

My body ached from the rough treatment, and fear gnawed at me as I anticipated someone’s approach. Whoever it was, they'd be here soon.

Vihaan's POV

Just as I was strategizing next steps, my phone buzzed. It was Aryan.

“Vihaan, we need you in my office. Right away,” he said, his tone steely, and cut the call before I could respond. I wasted no time.

Time Skip

I sat down across from Aryan, tension radiating between us. Ajit, Ayesha’s secretary, was already there, scrolling through a tablet, his face tight with focus.

Ashish was there too, looking colder than ever, his face blank but his eyes carrying an unspoken worry.

Ajit took a breath and addressed the room. “Sir, we have a lead on Ayesha mam location,” he said, turning his tablet to show us a map.

I leaned forward, urging him silently to continue.

“It’s about the ring Ma’am was wearing,” Ajit explained. “A high-security client of ours, who had concerns for her safety, gifted her that ring. It has a discreet tracking device embedded in it.”

A faint spark of hope ignited within me. I hadn’t realized the ring held such significance.

“She wears it daily,” Ajit continued, his voice unwavering. “It’s always been on her, and only she, the client, and I were aware of its function.”

Ashish’s cold exterior seemed to thaw, his relief almost palpable. The room fell silent for a moment as we all absorbed this new revelation.

“Where is she now?” I demanded, my voice barely containing the fury and desperation coursing through me.

Ajit tapped a few times on the tablet. “She’s in an industrial area on the city’s outskirts. Here,” he said, pointing to a highlighted spot on the map.

I clenched my jaw, nodding. “We go now.”

Ashish’s phone rang suddenly, its sharp tone cutting through the tense atmosphere. He looked at the screen, his eyes narrowing with suspicion.

I glanced at Aastha, and she caught on instantly. With a quick nod, I signaled her to be ready. She moved swiftly, pulling out her equipment to trace the call.

“Answer it,” she whispered urgently to Ashish, who nodded and steadied himself before picking up.

“Hello?” Ashish’s voice was steady, but the tension in his posture gave away his nerves.

There was a moment of silence, just long enough to feel ominous, before a low, mocking laugh came through the speaker.

“Oh, you’ve finally picked up,” sneered the voice on the other end, dripping with malice. “Thought you’d be a little more desperate by now.”

Aastha’s fingers flew over her keyboard, tracing the call’s origin with a focused intensity.

Ashish stayed calm, keeping the person on the line. “What do you want?” he asked, his tone laced with barely controlled fury.

“Want? Oh, nothing much,” the voice continued, amusement evident. “Just making sure you’re all enjoying the little game I set up. Don’t worry, she’s in... good hands, for now.”

I gritted my teeth, holding myself back from snatching the phone. Ashish exchanged a look with me, sensing my impatience.

Aastha looked up, a flash of triumph in her eyes. She mouthed, Got it.

Ashish, picking up on the cue, took a steadying breath and responded to the caller, “We’ll see who’s playing the game soon enough.”

With that, he ended the call, and all eyes turned to Aastha. “Where?” I demanded, already bracing to leave.

She pointed to the map. “A warehouse near the docks,” she said, her voice filled with grim determination.

As Aastha revealed the warehouse location near the docks, a heavy silence fell over the room. Everyone processed the information in their own way—anger, relief, fear, and a hardened determination showing in each face.

I clenched my fists, barely able to hold back the anger boiling within me. “We’re going there now,” I said, my voice laced with an icy resolve.

Aryan placed a firm hand on my shoulder, grounding me. “We need a plan, Vihaan. We can’t storm in without knowing what we’re up against. This is clearly a trap.”

I pulled back slightly, frustration brimming under my control. “Then let’s go prepared,” I countered. “Get the security team, whatever backup we need. I don’t care. I’m not waiting.”

Ashish chimed in, his face set with a dark expression. “I’ll call in some additional men. We’ll split into teams to cover all exits. There’s no way they’re getting her out once we’re in.”

Within minutes, the room turned into a tactical command center. Maps and blueprints of the warehouse were pulled up on the screens. Everyone’s eyes stayed glued to the layouts as Aryan and I strategized points of entry and exit.

Aastha pointed to a side entrance on the blueprint. “This area is less guarded, likely an oversight. You could sneak in through there, undetected.”

Aryan nodded, marking it down. “Vihaan and I will take the front with the primary team. Ashish, you cover the side entry with the backup team. And Aastha,” he turned to her, “keep monitoring. If there’s any suspicious movement or communication, alert us immediately.”

Everyone nodded in agreement, and after a final run-through, we geared up. Bulletproof vests, communication devices, and concealed weapons. No one was taking any chances.

As we prepared to leave, Parul aunty appeared at the door, her eyes filled with worry and desperation. “Please… just bring her back safe,” she whispered, holding back tears.

I nodded, meeting her gaze. “I promise, aunty. We’ll bring her home.”

With one last look of reassurance, we stepped out into the night, ready to take on whatever awaited us.

At the Warehouse

The docks were shrouded in shadows, the only sounds being the faint lapping of waves and the distant hum of the city. The old warehouse loomed in the darkness, its cracked windows and rusty walls giving off an eerie, unsettling aura.

My team and I crouched near the front entrance, Aryan signaling us to stay low. Ashish’s voice crackled in through the earpiece, “We’re in position at the side entrance. Ready when you are.”

I tightened my grip on the handle of my gun, adrenaline flooding my veins. “On my count,” I whispered, my voice barely audible. “Three… two… one… Move.”

We surged forward, entering the warehouse with swift, silent precision. The darkness inside was dense, punctuated only by dim lights that flickered sporadically, casting long shadows on the cold, concrete floor.

The silence in the warehouse was deafening, heavy, like a storm waiting to break. Every dark corner and shadowed hallway gave off an eerie stillness, a sense of something wrong lurking just out of sight.

We moved quietly, checking every door and corridor, but there was nothing—no signs of life, no whispers, not even the faintest movement.

One by one, the security teams reported back, frustration clear in their voices. “Clear.”
“Nothing here.”
“All empty, sir.”

I clenched my jaw, anger simmering as Aryan’s face grew darker with every report. Finally, he turned to me, his teeth gritted as he spat out, “It’s a fucking trap.”

The realization hit us hard. They’d lured us here, knowing we’d come running. I punched the nearest wall, the impact sending a dull ache through my hand but doing nothing to quell the rage building inside me.

Aryan cursed under his breath, pacing as he processed the gravity of the situation. “They knew we’d track her. They knew we’d come here.”

My mind raced, every piece of evidence, every clue suddenly feeling like a taunt, mocking our attempts to find her. They’d left nothing behind—no sign of her presence, no trace of who they were or where they’d taken her next.

Aryan pulled out his phone, quickly calling someone. “Check every camera around this area,” he ordered, his voice harsh. “I want to know exactly where they went.”

As the seconds stretched, my patience wore thin. I couldn’t shake the image of Ayesha alone, terrified, in the hands of people who meant her harm. Just thinking about it made my blood boil.

Suddenly, Aryan’s phone buzzed. He answered, his face growing even more tense as he listened. “They left hours ago. The camera feeds show a van leaving from a back road around the warehouse.”

He paused, looking at me, his voice filled with frustration. “It was all to throw us off. They’ve covered their tracks too well.”

I nodded, a cold determination setting in. “If they want to play games, we’ll play. But we’re going to find them.”

Thud.

I looked behind me just in time to see Aryan stagger and fall to the ground. Blood oozed from his shoulder, dark and ominous against his shirt.

“Ughhh…” he groaned, his voice strained but still filled with defiance. It had just grazed his shoulder, but the impact was enough to bring him down.

“Find that motherfucker!” I roared, adrenaline surging through me as I sprinted toward him. The anger boiling within me was palpable, a storm ready to unleash.

Ashish’s voice broke through the chaos. “Heads down!” he shouted, his eyes scanning for the shooter. He moved with a tense urgency, determination etched on his face.

I knelt beside Aryan, who was already trying to push himself up, grit and strength evident in his posture. “Stay down, Aryan. We need to get you out of here!” I urged, glancing around for any sign of danger.

“I’m fine, Vihaan. It’s just a shoulder wound,” Aryan insisted, gritting his teeth as he applied pressure to the bleeding area. “We can’t let them get away.”

“No way you’re fine,” I shot back, my heart racing. “This isn’t the time to play the hero.” I ripped a strip of cloth from my own shirt, trying to staunch the flow of blood while staying aware of our surroundings.

Ashish was already on his phone, barking orders into it. “We need backup and medics, now!” he growled, his focus unwavering.

“Can you stand?” I asked Aryan, keeping my voice low, both to reassure him and to keep our movements discreet.

“Yeah, but I’m not leaving you guys,” he replied, determination shining in his eyes. “I’m coming with you to find Ayesha.”

The guards formed a protective barrier around us, scanning the area for any signs of danger as we prepared to move.

Aryan, despite the pain etched across his face, was determined to see this through. Ajit accompanied him, ready to assist in any way he could.

“How the hell didn’t you tell us she was in danger?” I growled, grabbing Ashish by the collar, my anger spilling over like a boiling pot. “You knew something was off, and you didn’t say a damn thing!”

Ashish’s eyes widened, a mix of surprise and guilt flashing across his face. “Vihaan, I—”

“Don’t!” I snapped, cutting him off. “Don’t you dare try to justify this. Ayesha’s life is at stake, and you kept us in the dark!”

“I thought it was just precautionary measures! I didn’t want to cause unnecessary panic,” he pleaded, desperation creeping into his voice. “I didn’t think it would escalate like this!”

“Didn’t think? Look where your assumptions got us!” I shouted, shaking him slightly. “Your negligence put her in danger! What if something happens to her?”

“I know! I know!” Ashish replied, his voice trembling with a mix of frustration and regret. “I didn’t want to make it worse by worrying you all. I thought it was just another scare. I didn’t want to add to the chaos!”

Just then, the sound of sirens filled the air, and I could see the flashing lights of the emergency vehicles approaching.

“We need to get moving,” I said, releasing Ashish’s collar but keeping my eyes locked onto his. “You need to focus on getting Aryan to the hospital and then help us find Ayesha. No more secrets.”

Ashish nodded, his expression now serious, his earlier defiance replaced by a determination to make things right. “I promise, I won’t let anything happen to her. We’ll find her, I swear it.”

With that, we moved swiftly, Aryan being assisted into the waiting ambulance while I kept my guard up, ready for anything.

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Ayesha's POV

The tension in the room was suffocating as the man entered, bringing along another figure. I froze as my eyes fell on him, disbelief washing over me.

Anuj?

He was my college classmate-a relentless pest who once had feelings for me. I rejected him again and again, but he wouldn't give up, always lingering around like a shadow. It took Aryan bhaiya stepping in for Anuj to finally leave me alone. And yet, here he was.

What is he doing here? My mind raced with questions I couldn't answer.

"Oh, darling," the man taunted, his voice dripping with smugness, "wondering why this boy is here, right?" His sinister grin widened. "He was there too."

My heart dropped. There too? What did he mean?

"Taking your pictures." He smiled even wider, watching my reaction.

Anuj's face turned pale, his eyes wide with terror. I stared at him, stunned.

"We told him to do so," the man added, savoring each word like it was a game to him.

Anuj, clearly shaken, started shouting, "He took my girlfriend at gunpoint! I swear, Ayesha, I didn't mean to