[22]
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In the tranquil night of Udaipur, anticipation filled the air as the impending wedding day approached. Shashwat found himself being dragged by his friends Akash and Reyansh to a garden, where his brothers Arav, Ritika, and Arushi were already present.
"We're planning to explore the night market, last day of sightseeing here. We'll be heading back to Mumbai the day after tomorrow," Arav explained. Shashwat, contemplating a refusal, noticed Ritika and Arushi approaching, secretly hoping Siya would join them.
"Let's go," Shashwat agreed, mentally grinning at the prospect of Siya's presence. Richa and Divya joined, meanwhile him, searching for Siya, discovered her absence.
"Bas itne hi log? I mean koi aur nahi aa raha?" He hesitated, glancing around.
"Why? Were you expecting someone else?" Akash teased with a smirk.
"No, just thought maybe someone else would join. Anyway, I'm feeling a bit tired; you guys go ahead and enjoy," Shashwat said, masking his disappointment.
"Ban gaya na Dada ji!" Akash said. Shashwat, shaking his head, retreated inside.
[Become grandpa again?]
Just then, Siya appeared before him, and he stepped back trying not to collide with her.
"Kahan jaa rahi ho iss time?" Shashwat inquired.
[Where are you going at this time?]
"The night market. Aap nahi chal rahe?" Siya asked, and Shashwat mentally scolded himself.
"Siyaa, come fast!" Ritika's voice called out, and Siya smiled at Shashwat before leaving.
"Ye to jaa rahi hai! Shashwat tu kitna bada idiot hai! Thodi der ruk nahi sakta tha! Ab kya karun ?" He muttered, biting his nails.
[Shashwat you are such a idiot. I should have waited for some time.]
Hastily deciding, he followed Siya and waved at everyone leaving them puzzled.
"Kya hai ab?" Reyansh questioned.
"I... I thought I should join you all. Phir pata nahi kab aisa mauka mile." Shashwat said, smiling nervously, exchanging glances with everyone except Reyansh and Siya.
Suddenly, Vihan Kanak and other cousins joined the group.
"We are also coming," Vihan announced.
"Isko kisne bulaya!" Shashwat and Siya muttered simultaneously, exchanging surprised glances.
[Who called him/her?]
"Did you say something?" Shashwat inquired, and Siya shook her head, indicating a negative response.
"Did you?" Siya asked, and Shashwat also denied any involvement.
"Let's go," Arav declared, and the entire group began strolling towards the night market.
As they ambled through the lively night market, Shashwat found it increasingly challenging to avert his gaze from Siya.
Overwhelmed by her recent confession, he grappled with the realization that what he felt for her transcended mere liking.
His feelings, once familiar, now bore the weight of something more profound, something he couldn't quite put into words.
Siya, attuned to the subtleties of his emotions, caught his lingering gaze. Their eyes met briefly, and Shashwat, feeling exposed, quickly shifted his focus elsewhere. The dance of unspoken emotions continued, punctuated by the sudden appearance of Vihan beside Siya.
"Isko koi aur kaam nahi hai kya jab dekho meri Siya... I mean Siya ke paas bhatakta rehta hai," Shashwat whispered to Akash, a mixture of irritation and bewilderment evident in his tone. Akash, always ready for banter, smirked in response.
[He doesn't have any work always roam around my siya...I mean siya..]
"Meri Siya?? Hmmm!" Akash teased, playfully hitting Shashwat's shoulders, his cheeks painted in a shade of mischief.
"Shut up! Woh, just my tongue slipped by mistake," Shashwat defended, a tinge of embarrassment coloring his features as he looked down.
"Are you jealous?" Akash probed, reading into the unspoken nuances of Shashwat's expressions.
"No... Why would I be?" Shashwat shrugged, attempting to downplay the situation.
"Accha? Toh tujhe kya problem ho rahi hai?" Akash delved further, a knowing glint in his eyes.
"I... I don't know, Akash. These feelings... they're so new to me. I'm so confused," Shashwat admitted, his voice revealing the turmoil within.
"Tell me clearly Shashwat." He asked in a serious tone and Shashwat sighed.
"Akash, tune kabhi socha hai ki humare zindagi mein jo principles aur rules hote hain, woh humare liye ek guide ban jaate hain?
Main hamesha apne rules ke saath chala aaya hoon, kabhi kisi ke liye kuch bhi nahi badla.
Par Siya ne mere sab rules ko todkar, meri duniya ko hi badal diya.
First time I felt ki kuch cheezein humare control ke bahar hoti hain .
I always kept a safe distance from such emotions, focusing on studies, family, and friends.
Love, or anything resembling it, never ventured into my thoughts, not even in my dreams. It feels strange, Akash, but at the same time, it feels right.
I never thought something like this could happen to me.
" He was saying, his eyes were focused on road while Akash was silently listening to him as he continued,
"Today feels different, like I've stepped into a world I never thought I'd enter.
I've always been the pragmatic one, grounded in logic and reason.
Her confession, it's etched in my mind, and every glance at her is like a silent echo of those words.
I thought I liked her, and that it was comfortable, manageable.
But today, it's more than that - a profound shift that I can't quite define.
It's the best feeling, yet it leaves me grappling with questions I never imagined .
I never wanted to feel all of this, to be swept away by something so unfamiliar.
It's like those romantic songs I used to dismiss, now playing a tune that resonates with the inexplicable sensations within me.
And the weirdest part is that I've broken all my rules for her, and I don't regret it for a moment.
For her, I've abandoned all my principles, and strangely, it went unnoticed.
I never thought about it, but today I can say that for her, rules have become mere written words.
For her, I never thought before. My mind said 'stop,' but there was something in her eyes that made me listen to my heart.
" He confessed and looked at his friend who kept his reassuring hand on his shoulder and said,
"Shashwat, you know, love is a bit like those moments when the sun sets.
You don't realise it's happening until it's already painting the sky with vibrant colours.
Similarly, you might not have noticed, but you've already fallen for Siya.
It's not a loud proclamation; it's a silent realisation that gradually seeps into your soul.
I can see the confusion in your eyes, but trust me, it's a beautiful confusion.
Love doesn't follow a set timeline; it's a journey that unfolds at its own pace.
You've broken your rules, and you haven't regretted it because, andar se, tera dil wo baat pehle hi samajh gaya tha jo tera dimaag abhi samajh raha hai.
Maybe you're afraid of acknowledging this love because it defies the logic you've always clung to.
But love has a language of its own. You're on the verge of discovering a new facet of yourself, a side that only love can reveal.
Embrace the confusion, Shashwat, because in it lies the beauty of a journey that leads to a love that's both unexpected and extraordinary.
It's okay if you take time to fully grasp this newfound emotion.
Love is patient, and it waits for us to catch up with its rhythm.
You've taken the first step into this uncharted territory, and the rest will unfold in its own time.
I'll be here, my friend, waiting for the day you fully realise and embrace the love that has quietly taken residence in your heart. "
As Shashwat absorbed Akash's words, a storm of emotions raged within him.
Siya's presence, intertwined with the echoes of Akash's counsel, created a moment of introspection.
He glanced at Siya, who was immersed in conversation with Vihan, seemingly unaware of the turmoil in Shashwat's heart.
The playful banter around him became distant whispers as Shashwat grappled with the realisation that love, with all its complexities, had quietly woven itself into the fabric of his being.
"Kya yaar! Itna accha speech diya taali to baja hi sakta tha." Akash said with a pout and he smacked on his head.
Arav excused himself from the group as his phone rang, and he walked a little distance away to take the call. As he disconnected, Ritika appeared beside him, wearing a mischievous grin.
"What are you doing here?" he asked with a sigh.
"Tumhe company dene aayi thi," she replied, her grin widening.
[Thought to give you company.]
"No one asked for it," he retorted, a tight-lipped smile on his face.
"Haan, but I wanted this," she said with a playful smile, and he simply shook his head, choosing not to respond, and continued walking.
"Vaise... tumhare andar se to mast khushbu aa rahi hai. Konsa perfume lagate ho?" Ritika inhaled his fragrance from a distance, her tone teasing.
[You are smelling good. Which perfume?]
"Raat mein mai koi perfume use nahi karta. Aap apni flirting band kijiye sabke samne. Ajeeb lagta hai yaar," he said, a slight frown on his face.
[Stop your flirting.]
"Ajeeb? Saaf saaf bolo na that you feel shy ya phir tumhari aisi baaton se mere dil ki dhadkan ruk jati hai. Mujhe kuch kuch hone lagta hai," she said dramatically, and he rolled his eyes.
"Aisa kuch iss janam me to nahi hone vala," he dismissed.
[This is not gonna happen in this life.]
"It's okay, mai agle saat janam tak wait karne ke liye taiyar hun," she said, winking at him. Arav sighed, and a small, unguarded smile crept onto his lips, quickly masked before Ritika could notice.
[It's ok , I will wait for other seven lives.]
In the palace, the next morning unfolded with a sense of regal tranquility. Sunlight streamed through ornate windows, illuminating intricate details of the palace architecture.
Amidst the wedding preparations, Arushi struggled with a stack of boxes, her hands nearly giving in to the weight. Reyansh, in a timely rescue, caught the falling boxes, earning a grateful glance from Arushi.
"Where to keep these?" he asked, holding some boxes.
"In that room," Arushi replied, and they walked together. After safely storing the boxes, they emerged from the room to find an empty corridor, everyone occupied downstairs. In an unfortunate moment, Reyansh's hand collided with the sharp edge of a table, causing it to bleed.
"Reyansh, your hand is injured!" Arushi said worriedly.
"It's..." Before he could finish, Arushi, in a sudden panic, took his hand and hurriedly led him inside the room.
"Sit here," she instructed, retrieving a first aid box from her mother's suitcase. Kneeling before him, she began tending to his wound. Reyansh, bemused by her concern, found comfort in her caring gestures. His eyes, however, couldn't help but search for Vihan, suspecting a potential drama.
"Mujhe careless keh rahe the? Aur khud chot lagva li," Arushi expressed, her eyes reflecting more distress than Reyansh felt. His appreciation for her concern transformed into a genuine smile. Yet, as the smile reached his eyes, he noticed Vihan discreetly peeping into the room.
'Drama!' Reyansh thought, an unexpected pang in his heart. Abruptly pulling his hand away, he forced a smile.
"Ho gaya. I should leave now," he declared, wearing a facade that even Vihan couldn't see through, and with that, Vihan retreated as Reyansh moved towards him.
Amidst the hustle of wedding preparations, Shashwat stealthily searched for Siya, concealing a pair of bangles behind his back. Spotting her arranging things in anticipation of leaving for the marriage venue, he pondered on the perfect moment to present the surprise.
"How to give her these bangles? Thode der me chale jayenge ya log."Shashwat sighed , muttering to himself .
After a brief contemplation, he approached her, clearing his throat to capture her attention. Siya, sensing his presence, turned to face him. Swiftly, he placed the bangles in front of her, accompanied by a small chit, and then discreetly retreated.
Siya's fingers delicately traced the intricate patterns of the bangles, a gift that held more than just ornate beauty. Unfolding the chit, her eyes danced across the heartfelt words Shashwat had written. A soft gasp escaped her lips as the realization dawned on her.
Her heart raced, caught in the sweet simplicity of Shashwat's gesture. A warmth enveloped her, the kind that goes beyond the tangible gift. Shyness tinted her cheeks as she turned to acknowledge him, finding Shashwat leaning against the railing, his eyes fixed on her.
Their eyes locked, speaking a language only they understood. Shashwat's raised eyebrows sought her approval, and Siya, unable to contain her joy, nodded with a shy smile. It wasn't just about the bangles; it was about the unspoken connection.
As Shashwat rubbed his neck with a bashful smile, Siya's heart resonated with a mix of happiness and the subtle thrill of being the recipient of his thoughtful gesture.
In the midst of wedding preparations, Siya, who had just closed her eyes for a nap, abruptly woke up, startled by a distressing dream.
The vision of Shashwat marrying Kanak and her dancing on "Ghani Bawari" in front of him haunted her.
In a panic, she swiftly dialled Arushi's number, seeking solace in her friend's reassurance.
Meanwhile, Shashwat, who was also busy with some work, discovered Arushi's buzzing phone.
"Ye ladki na!! Phone kahin bhi phek degi phir sare jagah dhundegi!" he muttered, checking the caller ID that displayed
[This girl!! She might throw the phone anywhere and then search for it everywhere.]
"Siya." Although puzzled, he decided to answer and clarify Arushi's absence.
Shashwat, picked up the call and before he could speak Siya started,
"Arushi yaar!! Tujhe pata hai hamne abhi abhi kya sapna dekha?? Hamne dekha ki tumhare bhaiya ki shadi ho rahi hai kalank se aur ham ghani bawari song pe dance kar rahe hain kangana ranaut jaise. Tum na dekhna uss kalank ko kahin kuch kare na wo hamare gair maujudgi me."
[Arushi, buddy!! Do you know what dream we just had?? We saw that your brother is getting married in a quirky style, and we are dancing to the song "Ghani Bawari" like Kangana Ranaut. You should watch out for that calamity, and do something before it happens in our absence.]
Shashwat's expression shifted from confusion to amusement as Siya animatedly shared her dream over the phone. A playful smirk played on his lips, and his eyes twinkled with suppressed laughter
Struggling to contain his laughter, he reassured her,
"Don't worry! Tumhe aise dance karne ki zarurat nahi padegi."
Siya, eyes widening, checked the caller ID again,
"Wrong number," she said, disconnecting the call. Unbeknownst to her, Shashwat burst into laughter at the amusing scenario.
"Pagal ladki!" he chuckled, shaking his head and savouring the endearing craziness that was uniquely Siya.
As the baraat arrived at the palace, a symphony of celebration echoed through the grand venue.
The palace, adorned with intricate carvings and regal archways, stood as a majestic backdrop for the joyous occasion.
Elaborate floral arrangements cascaded down staircases, and the fragrance of blossoms permeated the air, adding to the enchantment of the setting.
As Shashwat, flanked by his friends, stepped into the venue, anticipation flickered in his eyes. The lively atmosphere of the celebration surrounded him, but his focus was singular-searching for the one who had lately claimed residence in his thoughts and heart.
"Siyaaa!" Arushi's voice caught his attention as he looked in another direction and saw her running towards her friend.
As his gaze met Siya, everything else seemed to fade into the background. She ran towards Arushi in slow motion, capturing Shashwat's attention with every graceful step.
Siya's attire was a sight to behold. She wore a dark blue sparkled lehenga that mirrored the starlit sky, each sequin and thread intricately woven into a mesmerising pattern.
Her flowing hair, adorned with delicate ornaments, cascaded in waves, framing her radiant face.
The rhythmic sound of her anklets echoed through the courtyard, harmonising with the joyous beat of the baraat.
Shashwat's heart quickened as he watched Siya in slow motion, her laughter echoing like a melody that only he could hear. Every step she took seemed to imprint on his heart, and as their eyes met, an unspoken connection sparked, transcending the vibrant celebration around them.
Richa also gilded towards them, a vision in a lavender-coloured lehenga that draped elegantly around her. The delicate sequins on her outfit caught the light, creating a subtle shimmer. Her hair, adorned with fragrant blooms, cascaded down her shoulders, completing the enchanting ensemble.
As she approached, Akash, mesmerised as always, couldn't help but feel a breath-catching awe at Richa's undeniable beauty. In a spontaneous gesture, he stepped forward, presenting her with a single rose-a token of admiration.
"A beautiful flower for another beautiful flower." He said bending down his head earning a glare from Richa who hit on his palm
"Shut up!" She said.
"Richa yaar, you are too much. Even this rose is blushing." He said with a pout and placed the rose on an ornate chair nearby.
"Tujhe bejati karaye bina khana hazam nahi hota na?" Shashwat asked as they walked away.
After they walked away , Richa couldn't resist picking up the rose, shaking her head with a smile.Akash, catching her reaction, turned his head towards Richa, looked away, and couldn't help but grin.
As the lively atmosphere buzzed with the sound of laughter and the flash of cameras capturing joyous moments, Shashwat noticed Siya standing alone, engrossed in clicking selfies.
Just then, Kanak approached, interrupting their silent exchange.
"Shashwat, where were you? I've been looking for you since evening," Kanak inquired, gaining Siya's attention.
"I was busy." He responded.
"Okay, tell me how do I look? Everyone praised me except you," she asked with a pout, twirling and seeking Shashwat's opinion on her appearance.
His hesitant compliment and a fleeting smile didn't go unnoticed by Siya, whose jaw clenched in silent frustration.
"Acchi lag rahi ho." he said with a small smile, but his attention was clearly elsewhere, focused on Siya, who was now fuming.
[You are looking good.]
"Someone is calling me. I'll be back," Kanak announced with a wink as she responded to another call.
Once Kanak departed, Shashwat approached Siya, attempting to mend the invisible rift.
"Acchi lag rahi ho," Siya mimicked his voice and walked away, leaving him with puzzled expressions.
[You are looking good.]
"Par maine kya kiya!" he asked himself, then walked behind her.
[But what I have done?]
As Shashwat found Siya near the tea counter, a tumultuous mix of emotions swirled within her. She knew that she didn't have the right to be angry with him. Yet, the subtle clash of expectations and reality created a storm of feelings that she couldn't easily dismiss.
She had taken the time to get ready, adorning herself with the bangles he had gifted her, a silent declaration of the emotions that had found a home in her heart.
However, as she witnessed him praising Kanak without even sparing a word for her, a sense of longing intertwined with disappointment crept in.
"Gussa ho?" His soft voice gently broke the silence, and Siya looked at him as he pretended to be engrossed in taking a sip of his imaginary tea.
[Are you angry?]
"Nahi... Why would I? Aapko jiski tareef karni hai, kariye. Mujhe kya!" She said and shrugged her shoulders.
[Praise whoever you want; I don't mind!]
"Usne pucha tha mujhse, to maine kya kehta?" Shashwat's innocent pout and questioning eyes melted her heart, and she couldn't help but control the smile threatening to escape.
[What should I say?]
"Kuch bahana bana lete. Everyone was there.
Sabne suna hoga to yahi sochega that there is something between you two," she said, her gaze fixed on the tea in her hands.
She couldn't hold back her questions about Shashwat's praises for Kanak.
It was a moment of newfound confidence, a far cry from a time when she struggled to speak in his presence.
The source of this newfound strength could be traced to the assurance she felt, the understanding that Shashwat harbored feelings for her.
The silent connection between them, the stolen glances, and the shared moments had built a foundation of trust and hope .
At that moment, she believed she had the right to seek answers, to demand an explanation.
"Doesn't matter. The only thing that matters is tum kya sochti ho," Shashwat's soft words resonated, evoking butterflies within Siya. Her attempt to suppress a shy smile spoke volumes.
"Kya fark padta hai. Jab tareef aapko uski hi karni hai," she said, biting her lips to control her smile, a subtle admission of the happiness his words brought. She left the place before her suppressed smile could break free.
[It doesn't matter when you have to praise her.]
[Play the song "Aapki ankhon me kuch" for better experience]
After sometime everyone were sitting together in hall just then the sudden change in song caught siya's attention and her eyes moved towards Shashwat who raised his eyebrows as the song started,
As the sudden change in the song caught Siya's attention, her eyes instinctively moved towards Shashwat, who responded with a playful raising of his eyebrows as the lyrics unfolded.
Siya's gaze lingered on Shashwat's eyes, where an unspoken secret seemed to reside. The subtle exchange of glances between them revealed a silent connection, a mystery concealed within the depths of their eyes.
The lyrics mirrored the unspoken acknowledgment of Shashwat's admiration for Siya. As he changed his seat and settled in front of her, the way he observed her, with an aura of admiration, perfectly echoed the sentiment conveyed by the song.
The poetic description aligned with the subtle movements of Siya's lips, betraying a hint of a smile. The blossoming emotions, akin to flowers swaying in the gentle breeze, mirrored the changing dynamics between them.
Siya, now blushing, averted her gaze, creating a metaphorical sea within her eyes where uncharted territories of emotions seemed to meet, just as the lyrics suggested.
Siya's silence spoke volumes, a silent language shared with Shashwat. Each unspoken word resonated in the quiet moments between them, creating a melody only they could understand.
The song emphasized Shashwat's mischievous charm, prompting Siya to reflect on his newfound playfulness.
As Shashwat placed his hand on his face, embracing the shyness that enveloped him, it was a symbolic acknowledgment of the evolving dynamics between them.
The lyrical flirtation transformed into a dance of shared shyness, creating an intimate atmosphere.
The lyrics delved into the secrets hidden in Siya's eyes, capturing the essence of her feelings.
Shashwat, now feeling too shy, mirrored Siya's bashfulness by placing his hand on his face.
The synchronized actions became a silent affirmation of the unspoken connection, where the nuances of their expressions spoke louder than words.
As the song ended Siya walked away, her blush unmistakable, Shashwat couldn't contain the shy smile that played on his lips. With a gentle sweep of his palm, he covered his face, attempting to conceal the blossoming emotions that mirrored Siya's own.
The playfulness in his expression blended seamlessly with the bashful energy that enveloped him.
His eyes, though hidden, radiated a warmth that echoed the subtle connection they shared.
It was a moment of shared shyness, a silent dance of emotions unfolding in the wake of the romantic song that had stirred the air.
As the family gathered together , the air was filled with a blend of excitement and joviality.
"Ritika, jao sabke liye chai, coffee, cold drink, vagera lekar aao," Tara instructed.
Siya, always eager to help, promptly stood up, ready to assist Ritika.
"Nahi nahi, tum rehne do beta, wo kar lengi," Tara said.
[Don't do anything. She will do it.]
"Arushi, tum bhi jao, help karo. Yahaan baithi kya ho, mehman ho kya?" Kirti said.
[Arushi go and help her. Why are you sitting here?]
"Par main to ladke walon ki taraf se thi," She said trying to use her connection to the groom's side as an excuse.
[But I am from groom's side.]
"So what, Aru? We are from the groom's side, not God ki hame special treatment mile," Shashwat remarked, impressing everyone with his light-hearted response.
"Naman ji, aapka beta bahut padhai ke sath social life mein bhi bahut samajhdaar hai," Harsh praised Shashwat, recognizing his well-rounded qualities.
[Naman your son is too good.]
Shashwat, not accustomed to such attention, smiled shyly in response.
"Sasur ji to set ho gaye," Richa, always quick with her comments, whispered to Siya, who blushed at the subtle remark.
[Father in law is set.]
As the banter continued, Akash couldn't resist teasing Shashwat about his growing popularity.
"Waah, sasur, saas, aur ladki to already impressed lag rahe hain. Bas tere haan bolne ki der hai," Akash playfully teased Shashwat.
"Chup rahega tu??" Shashwat retorted, pinching Akash's hand in a playful yet protective manner.
"Siya beta, Shashwat bhaiya ko cold drink de do." Tara said and Shashwat choked the water which he was drinking and others eyes popped out.
[Siya give cold drink to your shashwat brother.]
Shashwat, caught off guard, began coughing, and Siya stood there in shock.
"What happened, beta?" Kirti inquired.
"No... nothing, mummy, I don't want any cold drink." Shashwat quickly responded, clearing his throat.
Kirti shifted her attention to Kanak, who was serving lassi to guests.
"Kanak kitni pyari bachi hai na... Sanskaari, sundar, samajhdar, topper, sare gun hain usme," Kirti praised, and Siya with her friends , Darsh and Akash made a face in response.
"Hai na... jiske ghar jayegi wo bahut lucky hoga," Tara added.
"Haan, usse hi samajh aayega jis se shadi hogi," Siya whispered, and Arushi chuckled.
"Mujhe to Shashwat ke liye bahut pasand hai," Kirti expressed with a smile.
[I liked her very much for my shashwat.]
Shashwat glanced at Siya, who was visibly burning with jealousy.
"Bhai, Siya to aaj Kanak ko maar na de, uski shakal dekh. Aur ye Kanak itna sharma kyun rahi hai?" Akash said getting irritated from these talks.
[By siya's face it is looking like she will kill Kanak.]
"Chup kar," Shashwat responded, feeling increasingly irritated with his mother's comments, as he didn't want anyone associating his name with another girl instead of Siya.
After some time, Arushi was sipping tea from her cup when she noticed Reyansh approaching for tea as well.
In the midst of the crowd, someone accidentally bumped into her, causing the hot tea to spill on her hand.
She winced in pain, and to her surprise, Reyansh was right there, holding her palm and inspecting it with genuine concern.
He swiftly guided her towards a water jug, carefully pouring cool water over her injured hand.
Arushi, captivated by the unexpected care in his eyes, couldn't help but feel a flutter of emotions she had been trying to ignore.
"Jal raha hai kya?" Reyansh inquired, and she found herself lost in his gaze, nodding her head slightly in response.
[Is it burning?]
"Itna garam nahi tha," she remarked, and he nodded, examining her palm attentively. Their eyes locked, creating an unspoken connection, and Reyansh eventually released her hand.
"Actually... Vihan was looking here, so I had to," he offered a quick explanation, though it felt like a cover to mask something deeper. With that, he left the scene, leaving Arushi feeling a mixture of gratitude and hurt.
"If Vihan wasn't here, would you have let my hand keep burning?" Arushi questioned, her words reflecting the conflict in her heart as Reyansh departed.
After the conclusion of various rituals, Prashant and Ashi found respite in the mandap, surrounded by friends and family who had swapped their elaborate attire for lighter ones. Some were chatting, some dozing off, and others still indulging in post-celebration feasts, like Siya and Arushi.
As Akash sat alone in a corner, engrossed in his phone, he spotted Richa strolling by. Seizing the moment, he decided to serenade her, halting her in her tracks.
"Tauba ye matwali chaal, jhuk jaye phoolon ki daal, Chand aur sooraj aa kar mange tujhse rang -e-zamal Haseena teri misaal kahan."
Richa sighed, rolling her eyes at his theatrics.
"Yaar, itna accha gaya hai, clap to kar sakti ho," he suggested with a grin, and she responded with a tight-lipped smile.
[I sang so well. You should clap atleast.]
"Acche khase song ka murder tha ye," she quipped, and he chuckled.
[This was murder of a good song.]
"Accha, sit na. I have your favorite strawberry for you.
Khatam hone vala tha, to maine food counter se chura liya tha tumhare liye," he confessed, giggling.
Richa shook her head, unable to resist his infectious charm, and joined him, accepting the strawberry.
Despite her occasional rude demeanor, Akash's thoughtful gestures always had a way of melting her heart.
Deep down, she didn't hate him; her behavior was simply her unique way of navigating the world.
[I stole it from the food counter for you as it was about to finish.]
She was eating the strawberries and Akash was scrolling his phone just then his eyes caught a post, business-related update from his father.
The post portrayed a harmonious family scene, with his father, stepmother, and half-brother sharing an affectionate hug.
The caption, "My love is my family," resonated with familial bliss.
As he scrolled through the comments, one query stood out: "Mr. Mittal, where is your other son?" His father's response cut through him like a blade,
"I don't have any other son. They are all I have."."
His heart clenched as the familiar sting of rejection resurfaced.
The man recognized as his father had never harbored love for him, never acknowledged him as a true son.
However, the bitter truth cut even deeper when he witnessed his father publicly disowning him.
Akash desperately tried to suppress the turmoil within him, massaging his temples in a futile attempt to contain the welling emotions.
A solitary tear betrayed Akash's attempt to maintain composure, catching the keen eye of Richa. Concern etched across her features as she approached, prompting her to ask,
"Akash! What happened?"
"Nothing." He said looking at other side but Richa held his face gently, turned his face towards her,
"Jhuth to bolo mat tum." She said sternly.
"Kuch nahi hua hai yaar. I am fine." He said removing her hand from his face trying to wipe his tears.
"Don't try to hide these from me. Tell me what happened?" she demanded. As he wiped his tears,
"Kuch hua hi nahi.. Meri ankhe jal rahi thi." He said but her eyes were still strict.
"Akash, natak band karo. I know there is definitely something which you are hiding from everyone. I can clearly see the pain behind your happy eyes," she affirmed, her intuition cutting through his defenses while he smiled at her .
"That's why I love you, na," he quipped, hoping to divert her attention.
"Don't change the topic. Tell me what happened?" she insisted.
"It's nothing yaar. Why don't you believe me?" Frustration tinged Akash's voice as he denied any issues.
Yet, Richa, determined to unravel the truth, pressed on.
"Haan, as I will believe you. Hai na? Batao kya hua hai?" she challenged. Succumbing to her relentless concern, he sighed and locked eyes with her.
"Richa, listen carefully! I love you, and I want you to love me.
I don't want your sympathy, but your love.
Yes, there are so many things in my life which you don't know, but until you don't love me, I can't tell you anything," Akash confessed.
His earnest gaze held a depth of emotions as he continued,
"Jis din tum mere sath apni zindagi mere sath bitane ka decision logi, uss din mai apni sari zindagi tumhare sath share kar dunga."
[The day you decide to spend your life with me, I'll share my entire life with you.]
With these words, he gently patted her cheek, leaving her caught in a whirlwind of emotions that proved elusive to definition. As Akash departed, the unspoken connection lingered, and Richa grappled with the profound feelings that had unfolded in that moment.
"Yaar, I haven't even changed yet. My outfit is so heavy. I'll be back in a few minutes," Ritika exclaimed, visibly exhausted, before making her way towards her room.
As she moved, one of her cousins, Trisha, called out, "Ritika Di," prompting an eye roll from Ritika. She turned towards her and found kanak beside her.
"What's happened ,Trisha?" Ritika inquired.
"Tara Chachi asked me to tell you that she placed your dress inside this room," Trisha explained, and Ritika frowned.
"Here?" Ritika questioned, and Trisha nodded before leaving. Sighing, Ritika entered the room, unaware that her cousins had schemed against her. They swiftly locked the door from outside, leaving Kanak behind, who chuckled with mischief.
"Now, this will be fun. Badi aayi hamare upar prank karne vali," Trisha remarked.
"Exactly! She mixed salt in our tea before... This prank will be even better," Kanak added.
"But didi, are you sure? I think this is too much. There was a difference between our pranks and hers. You all know she's claustrophobic. What if something serious happens?" a younger cousin expressed concern.
"Don't worry too much, choti. I think She is just afraid of closed places so that will be fun.
Nothing will happen. It's all in good fun," Kanak reassured, prompting giggles from the others.
Despite the worry lingering in the younger cousin's eyes, the group swiftly departed, leaving Ritika to unwittingly step into their prank-filled plot.
Ritika's search for her dress intensified in the dimly lit room, her frustration growing with each passing moment.
"Jhuthi saali!" She muttered and shook her head in disbelief, and decided to leave. However, her plan came to an abrupt halt when she realized the door was closed.
Frowning, she hurried towards the door, her hands trembling as she reached for the handle. The cold metal seemed to resist her attempts, heightening the sense of confinement.
"Trisha, open the door! This isn't a joke," Ritika called out, her voice betraying the growing anxiety within.
Her frantic efforts to open the door escalated, the confined space closing in on her. The room, once a familiar and welcoming space, now felt like a trap. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead as she took deep, shaky breaths, attempting to quell the rising panic.
"Guys, seriously, open the door. I can't breathe," she pleaded, her claustrophobia intensifying with each passing second.
The room seemed to shrink around her, the walls closing in as if threatening to suffocate her. Ritika's heart raced, and a tight knot formed in her chest. Desperation etched her voice as she continued to plead, "Please, I need to get out. Let me out!"
Silence on the other side of the door heightened her fear, turning the enclosed space into a nightmarish prison for someone grappling with claustrophobia.
The air felt thick, and Ritika's vision blurred as the room spun around her.
Her legs grew weak, and she stumbled backward, reaching out for support that wasn't there.
As darkness crept in at the edges of her vision, Ritika's consciousness teetered on the edge. The combination of panic and lack of fresh air began to take its toll. "No, please," she gasped, her plea echoing in the confined space as she started to lose consciousness.
Trying her best to not to loose her concious, Ritika's trembling hands fumbled in desperation, searching for her phone that seemed to have vanished.
The realization that she was cut off from the outside world intensified her panic.
Struggling to regain control, she mustered her strength to reach the door, knocking on it with all the force she could muster.
"Help! Please, open the door!" Ritika's voice, weakened by fear, echoed through the room. Arav, who happened to be nearby on a call, furrowed his brow at the unexpected disturbance. Sensing something amiss, he swiftly approached the door and opened it.
There, he found Ritika on the floor, gasping for air, tears streaming down her face. It took only a moment for Arav to assess the situation and realize that she was grappling with claustrophobia and he muttered,
"Ritika!"
Without hesitation, he rushed to her side, cupping her face gently, and offering reassurance.
"It's okay, Ritika. You're safe now. I'm here," Arav whispered, his soothing words intended to calm the storm of emotions raging within her.
"Ar...arav... Please save me... I... I can't breathe... I am feeling like I... I will die..." Ritika's words tumbled out between desperate gasps for air. Her fear was palpable, and Arav's heart sank at the intensity of her distress.
"I've got you, Ritika. Take deep breaths, okay? You're not alone, and you're not going to die. I'm right here with you," Arav said as he embraced her tightly, providing a comforting anchor as she continued to catch her breath.
Leading her out of the confined space, Arav guided Ritika to a nearby couch. As he continued to comfort her, Ritika clung to him, her grip tight on his shoulders.
"I-I thought I was trapped, that I couldn't breathe. It was like the walls were closing in on me," she stammered, her voice reflecting the lingering fear.
"Shhh!! Ritika, kuch nahi hua hai. Breathe, okay? Sab thik hai. I am here," he murmured, his fingers gently running through her hair.
"Want to take a moment to rest?" He asked and Ritika nodded in response, still shaken from the ordeal.
Arav guided her into a nearby room, ensuring she was comfortable. He handed her a glass of water, staying close to reassure her. Once she lay on the bed, he continued to caress her hair, providing the support she needed to recover from the distressing experience.
As he was about to leave the room, a concern for her safety crossed his mind. With so many people around, he decided it was best not to leave her alone. Resolute in his commitment, Arav chose to stay by her side.
"I should inform this to her sisters," Arav said and promptly called Siya, providing a detailed account of Ritika's distressing experience.
After a few minutes, Siya, Divya, Reyansh, along with Arushi and Richa, rushed into the room.
Shashwat and Akash, accompanied by Darsh, followed closely.
Siya and Reyansh sat beside Ritika, gently caressing her hair.
Siya's eyes welled up with tears as she kissed her sister's forehead.
"Who locked her inside?" Reyansh's voice, laced with anger, resonated in the room.
"Let her wake up, and then we'll get answers," Arushi suggested, her tone measured but firm.
After an hour, Ritika slowly opened her eyes, still breathing heavily as she sat up on the bed. Reyansh quickly hugged her, rubbing her back to comfort her until her breathing normalized. Siya, her eyes expressing both concern and relief, kissed Ritika's forehead.
As Ritika looked around, she found everyone present in the room, their expressions a mix of worry and care.
Siya, concerned for her sister, offered Ritika a glass of water, which she gratefully accepted.
"Who did this?" Arav asked angrily, his eyes flashing with a mixture of concern and anger.
Ritika hesitated before replying, "Wo... Trisha and Kanak with some of our cousins." Her revelation left everyone in the room in disbelief.
"What's wrong with them! Aisi bhi kya dushmani hai ki jaan lene par aa jayegi wo log," Divya exclaimed, her disbelief mirroring the sentiments of those gathered.
Siya, unable to contain her anger, stood up from her place, declaring, "I won't leave them today," as she marched out of the room.
"Siya, ruk jaa... Shadi ho rahi hai neeche. Tamasha thodi karna hai," Ritika urged, recognizing the inappropriateness of a confrontation during the ongoing wedding ceremony.
"Hone do tamasha! Aisi ghatiya harkat karne ke pehle un logon ne kuch socha tha?" Reyansh expressed his frustration.
"I can't believe Kanak can do this!" Shashwat muttered in disbelief, his voice reflecting the shock of the revelation.
After a lengthy discussion, they decided not to confront Trisha and Kanak immediately, respecting Ritika's request given the ongoing wedding.
Despite the anger and disbelief simmering beneath the surface, they chose to prioritize the sanctity of the occasion and deal with the matter after the celebrations had concluded.
After the wedding, Ritika's spirits had lifted, and she descended the stairs.
The joyous celebration had managed to overshadow the unsettling incident from earlier.
As they gathered downstairs, the atmosphere was filled with a blend of emotions - joy, nostalgia, and a hint of sadness as it was time for the vidai.
The air was permeated with the sounds of laughter and the gentle hum of conversations as family and friends prepared for the emotional farewell. Rituals for the vidai commenced, and the family shared heartfelt moments, making the departure bittersweet.
As the vidai concluded, hugs were exchanged, tears were shed, and promises of staying in touch were made. The time had come for everyone to bid adieu, knowing that they would reunite soon.
"Beta, apne luggages lekar aao jaldi. We will miss the train," Harsh urged, prompting nods from everyone.
Arushi, Richa, and Siya shared a warm hug.
"School me milte hain," Siya said, and Arushi nodded.
A brief gaze exchange between Siya and Shashwat occurred, accompanied by shy smiles, before they both averted their eyes.
Meanwhile, Arushi observed Reyansh engaged in conversation with Shashwat and Akash. The realisation dawned that any connection between them was unlikely. Despite knowing this, a tinge of sadness clouded her emotions.
As conversations buzzed around them, Ritika approached Arav, whispering in his ear,
"Tum bhi to mil lo mujhse."
Confused, he inquired, "What?"
"I will miss these days with you," she pouted, eliciting an eye roll from him.
"Kisi ne sun liya to kya sochega?" Arav said looking around.
[If anyone will hear what will they think?]
"Yahi sochega ki ye ladki kitna pyar karti hai iss ladke se, par ye zalim ladka hai jisse koi value hi nahi hai." She responded dramatically while he rolled his eyes.
[He'll think, "This girl loves this guy so much, but he's a heartless guy with no value."]
"Thukra lo mera pyar huh!! Kahin aisa na ho ki jab tak tumhe mere pyar ki value samajh me aaye, tum mujhe kho chuke ho," she said, infusing drama into her words.
Arav looked at her, and though her statement was delivered dramatically, his heart skipped a beat, sensing a deeper emotion beneath the playful facade.
[Reject my love, huh!! I hope it doesn't happen that by the time you realize the value of my love, you've already lost me.]
After that heartfelt moment, they bid their final goodbyes, each embarking on their respective journeys. The air was tinged with both the sweet memories of the past and the uncertainty of the future, as the bonds forged in those fleeting days lingered in the hearts of those who had shared them.
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