[41]
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The next morning, Shashwat and Reyansh both reached the school stairs at the same time, each accompanied by their sister. Their eyes met, and the air between them crackled with tension. They exchanged icy glares, both silently blaming the other for the turmoil they were experiencing.
Arushi looked at Siya with hopeful eyes, but Siya refused to meet her gaze. Without a word, she began climbing the stairs, her expression set in a determined frown. Arushi hesitated for a moment, her heart heavy with regret and worry, before following her sister up the steps.
As Shashwat and Reyansh reached the corridor, they spotted Akash standing outside the classroom, engaged in a lively conversation with one of his classmates. The boy left, and Akash turned towards them with a mischievous grin.
"Aur salon..." he began, a playful glint in his eyes. "Ek dusre ke."
Reyansh and Shashwat glared at him, their expressions dark with irritation. Akash, unfazed, continued with a chuckle. "Accha, class me chalo pehle."
Shashwat and Reyansh stood at the classroom entrance, neither willing to let the other go first.
"Step back... I have to go," Shashwat insisted, his tone hard and unyielding.
"Haan toh mujhe bhi yahan pe khade hokar chaukidari nahi karni hai... tu peeche hat," Reyansh retorted, pushing Shashwat's shoulders.
Shashwat pushed back, and they found themselves in a minor shoving match at the door, each trying to assert their dominance.
"Shashwat, Reyansh, what are you both doing? Jaldi aao dono," the teacher scolded from inside the classroom, her voice sharp with annoyance.
With a frustrated sigh, Shashwat stepped back. "Jaiye jija ji," he said with a sarcastic smile.
Reyansh rolled his eyes and stepped into the classroom. "Tu jija ji," he muttered under his breath.
Meanwhile, at school, Siya and Richa were purposefully ignoring Arushi, who trailed behind them, visibly upset.
"Yaar, at least baat sun toh lo tum dono!" Arushi pleaded, her voice laced with desperation.
["Atleast listen to me you both!"]
"Koi kuch keh raha hai kya?" Siya asked Richa, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Haan, shayad wahi jiski life mein hamari koi importance hi nahi hai," Richa replied coldly.
"Aisa nahi hai yaar..." Arushi started, but the bell rang, signaling the start of the lunch period.
"Chal, handwash karte hain," Siya said, and the two of them walked off, leaving Arushi trailing behind, trying to catch up.
Meanwhile, in the garden, Akash was running for his life with Shashwat and Reyansh hot on his heels.
"Ruk, teri sari rishtedari nikalta hun aaj mai!" Reyansh shouted, his voice filled with fury.
"Yaar, mai toh mazak kar raha tha!!" Akash yelled back, his breath coming in short gasps. He had made the mistake of cracking a joke for the twentieth time about them being jija-sala.
["I was just joking."]
"Reyansh, tu udhar se pakad usko," Shashwat directed, trying to corner Akash.
["Reyansh catch him from that side."]
"Yaar, kya galat kaha.. aur abhi tak toh tum dono ek dusre ke jaan ke dushman bane huye the, ab ek sath aa gaye," Akash said, still running.
["Hey, what did I say wrong... and until now you both were sworn enemies, now you are together."]
"Wo ham baad mein dekhenge," Reyansh said, finally managing to grab Akash by the collar and pulling him back.
"Aur tu hi bada cupid bana hua tha na inn dono ki love story mein?" Reyansh said, shaking him slightly.
["And weren't you the one playing cupid in their love story?"]
"Aur tujhe bahot maza aa raha tha na? Sab pata hote huye anjaan ban ne ka natak karte huye?" Shashwat added, his tone equally annoyed.
["And you were really enjoying it, right? Pretending to be clueless when you knew everything?"]
"Yaar, tum dono ne ek dusre ki behen patai hai.. maine kya kiya! I was just helping," Akash said defensively.
["Guys, you both dated each other's sisters... what did I do? I was just helping."]
"Mind your language.. hamari behen ke baare mein baat kar raha hai tu. What the hell is 'patai hai'?" Reyansh said, his grip tightening.
"Dekho, tum dono na bina matlab gussa ho rahe ho.. ek dusre ko jija accept kar lo jitna jaldi ho sake. Kyunki sachai toh yahi hai na," Akash said, as they finally let go of his collar.
["Look, you both are getting angry for no reason. Just accept each other as brothers-in-law as soon as possible. Because that's the truth, isn't it?"]
"It's not that easy," Shashwat said, shaking his head.
"Arre kyun? Bas itna samajh lo ki 100 rupaye ka pizza, Reyansh hai mera jija," Akash quipped, grinning mischievously.
They both glared at him.
"Tu phir bola?" Reyansh said, and Akash started running again.
"Sorry bhai, wo muh se nikal gaya," Akash called out, laughing as he ran.
Richa and Siya were walking towards the garden, still visibly upset. Suddenly, Arushi grabbed their hands and dragged them into an empty classroom, shutting the door behind them.
"Kya kar rahi hai tu?" Siya demanded, her voice filled with irritation.
"Locking us inside a classroom.. taki hamari sulah ho jaye," Arushi said firmly.
["So that we patch up again."]
"Koi sulah nahi karni hame.. hai na Richa!" Siya shot back.
["I don't want to patch up."]
"Exactly!! Wo bhi usse jo hame kuch samajhti hi nahi apna," Richa echoed, her tone equally cold.
"Yaar, you both are the most important people in my life. Mai bas batane hi wali thi tum dono ko yaar.. bas bata nahi paayi kyunki..." Arushi started to explain, her voice breaking.
["Guys, you both are the most important people in my life. I was just about to tell you both... I just couldn't because..."]
"Abhi bhi kyun bata rahi hai jab tab nahi bataya? Ham dono ne tujhse apne sare secret bataye hain... jis secret se tera koi lena dena nahi tha wo bhi bataya tha hamne.. par tune itni badi baat chupai hamse?" Siya cut her off, her eyes filled with hurt.
["Why are you telling us now when you didn't before? We shared all our secrets with you, even the ones that had nothing to do with you... but you hid such a big thing from us?"]
"Aisa nahi hai ... I wanted to tell you both, but Reyansh ne mana kiya tha mujhe. Relationship ham dono ka hai toh uske permission ke bina mai kisi ko kaise bata deti yaar," Arushi said, trying to make them understand.
["It's not like that... I wanted to tell you both, but Reyansh told me not to. It's our relationship, so how could I tell anyone without his permission?"]
"Us kutte ne mana kiya tha tujhe?" Siya exclaimed, her anger flaring.
["That dog asked him to hide this?"]
"Kab se chal raha hai ye sab? Itne din tak tu Reyansh bhaiya ko bol nahi paayi ki you want to tell us?" Richa asked, her voice trembling with betrayal.
"It started when we were at Udaipur..." Arushi began, but Siya interrupted her.
"Mtlb itne din se hamare peeth peeche ye sab ho raha hai? Hadd hai bhai!! Ab kyun bata rahi hai? Hame ab nahi sun na tum dono ki prem katha," Siya said, turning to leave.
["So, this has been going on behind our backs for so long? Unbelievable! Why are you telling us now? We don't want to hear your love story anymore."]
"Bhai, at least let me complete!" Arushi said angrily, grabbing Siya's hand to stop her.
"H..haan toh bata na.. gussa kyun ho rahi hai," Siya said, sitting back down with Richa, both still looking skeptical.
Arushi's patience finally broke as she spoke with urgency, "Your family friend, Vihaan was stalking me long back.. and when we met at Udaipur, he started misbehaving with me and..."
"What?? Vihaan?? I can't believe this.. uspe kitna trust kiya tha hamne.. kamina kahin ka. Aur tu.. tune bataya kyun nahi hame..ham usse kabhi baat na karte aur papa ko batate," Siya exclaimed, her eyes wide with shock and anger.
"He was a special person for Ashi bhabhi's father.
Inn sab se Ashi bhabhi ka rishta toot sakta tha.
.. itne mushkil se unhe accha ladka mila tha.
That's why I wasn't telling anyone but one day Reyansh saw him misbehaving with me and to escape from him I lied that Reyansh is my boyfriend and then we both started showing him that we are in a relationship.
Hame pata bhi nahi chala ki natak karte karte kab pyar ho gaya.
. and after the wedding, we both were trying to figure out our feelings.
Jab mujhe realise hua feelings ka toh Reyansh started maintaining distance from me because he thought he is betraying Shashwat bhaiya.
He ignored me at least more than two weeks but then out of jealousy, he proposed to me a few days ago," Arushi explained in one breath.
"So kitna time hua tum dono ko sath aaye?" Richa asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Bhai, sab itna complicated tha aur gine gine ek hafte huye honge hame officially relationship me aaye.
. ab isme mai kya batati tum dono ko pehle se jab kuch samajh hi nahi aa raha tha.
Aur tum dono ho ki bas chadh gaye mere pe baat chupane ke liye," Arushi said and then continued dramatically, "Aur abhi tak toh ek kiss bhi nahi hui. "
["Brother, everything was so complicated, and it's only been a week since we officially became a couple. How could I tell you both earlier when nothing was clear? And you both are just upset with me for keeping it a secret. And we didn't even kissed yet."]
"Chiii!! Kitni gandi hai tu!!" Siya and Richa said together, making an ewww face.
"Hamare bhai ke baare me baat kar rahi hai tu besharam kahin ki!" Siya said, hitting Arushi's shoulders playfully.
["You are talking about my brother."]
"Dekha!! Issi liye tujhe nahi bata rahi thi.. Aur tum dono ho ki naak fula ke baith gayi, ye bhi nahi socha ki tumhari ye dost kitni masoom hai, kitni sharmili hai!" Arushi said, covering her face and feigning shyness.
["See! That's why I didn't tell you. And you both are just sulking without considering how innocent and shy your friend is!"]
"Aur ham dono class ki topper hain," Siya said sarcastically.
["And we both are toppers."]
"Accha bhai..ab sab clear ho gaya na? Will you both forgive me now?" Arushi asked, looking at them hopefully.
"Aise kaise.." Siya said, standing up and erasing the board with her palm, resulting in chalk dust on her hand. She then applied the chalk on Arushi's cheek, leaving a white mark.
"Arre.." Arushi gasped, but then Richa did the same on the other cheek, making her look even funnier.
In retaliation, Arushi also rubbed the board with her palms and ran behind them, laughing. The three girls chased each other around the classroom, chalk dust flying and laughter echoing in the empty room.
Meanwhile, in the canteen, Siya, Arushi, and Richa were sitting with Akash, Shashwat, and Reyansh. The atmosphere was light but filled with an undercurrent of unresolved tension between the boys.
"Bhaiya, ab toh ham dono ne bhi apas me sulah kar li, aap dono bhi ab chhoro ye gussa," Arushi said, trying to mediate.
["Brother, now that we both have made up, you both should also drop this anger."]
"Tum log ki baat alag hai," Shashwat replied, his tone stubborn and unyielding.
"Arre yaar, ho gaya na... ek dusre ke jija ho tum dono, ye baat jitni jaldi accept kar loge accha hoga kyunki ab kuch badalne toh nahi vala," Akash added, trying to inject some sense into the situation.
"Haan bhaiya, aap log ki friendship kyun kharab karna isme... aur aap log bhi jante ho ki your sisters will be happy," Richa chimed in, hoping to appeal to their emotions.
"Wo sab toh thik hai, par tujhe yahi mili thi? Matlab bhai, aisi bhi kya majburi thi teri?" Reyansh asked, pointing at Siya with, making her gasp in mock outrage.
["That's all fine, but was she the only option? I mean, was it such a necessity for you?"]
"Aru, tujhe bhi yahi kutta mila tha? Abhi bhi time hai, dobara soch le," Siya shot back, her eyes narrowing. Reyansh reached to pull her ponytail in response, but Shashwat quickly grabbed his hand.
["Aru, was this really the best choice for you? There's still time to reconsider."]
"Kya kar raha hai? She will be hurt na," Shashwat said, his protective side showing.
"Jyada ashiqui mere samne mat dikha tu," Reyansh said, rolling his eyes and pulling his hand back.
["Don't show this love infront of me."]
"Haan bhai, uske samne mat dikha, chori se kar ashiqui bilkul aise," Akash said, suddenly grasping Reyansh's hand which was holding Arushi's beneath the chair. Siya and Richa giggled at the scene, while Shashwat quickly separated their hands.
["Yes, don't show your face in front of him. Do your love affair secretly, just like this."]
"Besharam kahin ka!" Shashwat exclaimed, shaking his head in mock disapproval.
Meanwhile, at college, Arav took a deep breath. Today, he was stepping far outside his usual character, but he couldn't give up now. Determination filled his chest as he walked down the corridor toward the classroom, his mind racing with thoughts of what he was about to do.
Entering the classroom, he immediately spotted Ritika.
She was sitting alone near the window, her head bent over her notebook as she scribbled something.
The sunlight streaming through the glass caught in her hair, giving her an almost ethereal glow.
Arav felt a rush of nerves, but he pushed them aside and made his way towards her, each step feeling like a leap into the unknown.
He reached her desk and sat down beside her, his heart pounding. "Good morning," he said, trying to sound casual. Ritika looked up, surprise flickering in her eyes. Before she could say anything, he added with a playful wink, "Pran sakhi."
Ritika's eyes widened in shock. "What are you doing here? Go back to your seat," she said, trying to keep her voice steady as she returned her attention to her notebook, pretending to ignore him.
But Arav wasn't deterred. "Ab jahan meri ardhangini hai meri jagah bhi toh wahin hogi na?" Toh yahi meri jagah hai he replied, his smile unwavering. His words hung in the air, and he could see the flush of embarrassment and irritation creeping up Ritika's cheeks.
["Now that my better half is here, I belong here as well, right? So this is where I belong."]
"Arav, I am warning you. Go back to your seat..." she started, her tone a mix of frustration and disbelief. But before she could finish, the teacher's voice cut through the classroom noise.
"What's happening there?" the teacher asked, her eyes narrowing as she looked in their direction. Arav glanced at his usual seat, now occupied by another boy, and a mischievous grin spread across his face.
"Ma'am, there is no seat left for me, so I was just requesting her to let me sit beside her. But she is not letting me," Arav said, adopting an innocent expression. Ritika turned to look at him, her eyes wide with a mix of disbelief and anger.
"Ritika, what is this? Let him sit," the teacher said firmly. Ritika nodded, clearly annoyed but having no choice. She glared at Arav, who simply winked at her, enjoying the moment.
Throughout the class, Arav couldn't help but steal glances at Ritika, who remained steadfast in her effort to ignore him.
Every time he looked at her, his heart raced a little faster.
The way her hair fell across her face as she bent over her notebook, the determined set of her jaw, everything about her captivated him.
"So, students, there is an announcement," the teacher began, drawing everyone's attention. "After two days, we will be going on a tour of Pune for a seminar. You have already been informed about this." The teacher continued with more instructions before leaving the room.
Arav seized the moment and shifted a little closer to Ritika. She immediately noticed and glared at him.
"Arre, yahan thoda dust hai, isliye shift hua," Arav said with a feigned innocence, pointing to an imaginary speck of dust. Ritika rolled her eyes and moved a bit further away from him.
"Yaha bhi hai," Arav said, inching closer again. Ritika, visibly annoyed, shifted further once more.
They repeated this little dance two more times.
On the final attempt, Ritika moved so far that she was on the verge of falling off her seat.
Arav, quick to react, reached out and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her back securely.
She ended up much closer to him than she had ever been, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still.
"Be careful, priye," he whispered softly into her ear, his warm breath sending shivers down her spine. Her heart fluttered uncontrollably, and for a moment, she was too stunned to react.
Quickly regaining her composure, she removed his hand from her waist and pushed him back to his side of the seat. Her cheeks were flushed, and she avoided looking at him, focusing instead on the notebook in front of her.
"Stay away from me," she hissed, her eyes flashing with anger.
"I was just saving you," Arav replied, shrugging nonchalantly.
"Jyada na oversmart mat bano. Suno meri baat," she demanded, her voice firm. He leaned back, placing his hand on his chin, and smiled, tilting his head as if deeply interested.
"Aapki baatein sun ne hi toh baitha hun," he said with a playful grin. She was silent for a few seconds, clearly trying to control her temper.
"Merese 4 kadam door raha karo tum. I am warning you... otherwise tange tod dungi," she threatened, grabbing her bag and standing up abruptly.
"Hayye ye gussa," Arav murmured to himself, smiling as he watched her storm out of the classroom. Without missing a beat, he grabbed his bag and followed her.
He found Ritika sitting in the canteen, her face still set in an expression of annoyance. Without hesitation, he approached her and sat down beside her. She immediately glared at him, her eyes flashing with irritation.
Recognizing the warning in her gaze, Arav quickly stood up and took four exaggerated steps back. He then pulled a chair to the spot and sat down, ensuring he was exactly four steps away from her.
"Four steps door hi hun," he said with a cheeky grin, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
As Ritika stood up , frustrated, Arav noticed something and hurriedly walked towards Ritika as she began to move away.
"Arav, I asked you to stay..." She began, but Arav interrupted her.
"Ritika, there are stains on your skirt," he said gently, causing her eyes to widen in realisation.
Without hesitation, he took off his jacket and offered it to her.
"Ritika, tie this around your waist and wait for me here," Arav insisted, concern evident in his voice.
"Arav, I can manage," Ritika protested softly, embarrassment colouring her cheeks.
"Please, Ritika, forget about it for now. Just sit here until I come back," he urged gently, his eyes conveying sincerity and care as he hurried away.
Arav's first stop was a nearby medical shop. As he entered, he felt awkward and out of place, unsure of how to proceed. After a moment of hesitation, he approached the counter tentatively.
"Um, excuse me," he began, his voice slightly uncertain. The pharmacist looked up with a polite smile.
"Yes, how can I help you?" she asked kindly.
"Uh, I... I need to buy... um..." Arav stumbled over his words, his cheeks turning a shade of pink.
"Sanitary pads?" the girl beside him offered helpfully, a small chuckle escaping her lips as she noticed his discomfort.
Arav nodded gratefully, feeling relieved that someone had understood his awkward request. The girl guided him to the aisle and recommended a few options based on her own preference.
"These are the best ones," she said with a reassuring smile, handing him a couple of packets.
Arav thanked her sincerely and purchased ten packets as he was not sure about her preferences.
Ritika sat in the chair, her mind racing with frustration. As she processed the whirlwind of emotions from the past few minutes, Arav returned, holding a bag. His expression, a mix of nervousness and concern, showed he was uncertain if his choice would meet Ritika's needs.
"What's all this? Dukaan nahi kholni hai mujhe." Ritika asked, her voice betraying her surprise and gratitude as she examined the contents of the bag.
Arav shuffled awkwardly, his earlier confidence slightly shaken. "Um, well, I wasn't sure what type you prefer. I hope inme se ho.. otherwise I can buy another one," he explained, his sincerity evident in his tone.
Ritika couldn't help but shake her head in disbelief, touched by Arav's thoughtful gesture despite the awkwardness of the situation.
"You can use that washroom. I'll wait out here to make sure no one comes in," Arav offered gently, breaking the momentary silence.
Grateful for his consideration, Ritika nodded, managing a small smile of appreciation before disappearing into the washroom. Inside, she reflected on Arav's unexpected but compassionate response, feeling a mix of relief and admiration for his willingness to step beyond his comfort zone to help her.
After a few minutes, Ritika emerged, her previous discomfort replaced by a sense of relief. She returned to her seat and settled down with a sigh, silently grateful for Arav's support during a vulnerable moment.
Arav approached her again, this time with a cup of soup in his hands. "You can drink this. It helps with cramps," he offered gently, his concern evident in his eyes.
Surprised by his continued thoughtfulness, Ritika looked up, curiosity mingling with gratitude. "How do you know?" she asked, genuinely intrigued by his unexpected knowledge.
"Well, Aru ko aksar cramps hote hain, so I usually make soups for her, toh I know," he replied with a warm smile, revealing a side of himself Ritika hadn't seen before.
"Thank you," Ritika murmured softly, taking a sip of the soup. Its warmth and Arav's caring gesture eased some of the tension she had been feeling.
"How much did all this cost? I'll transfer the money to your account," Ritika offered, wanting to repay him for his kindness.
Arav shook his head gently. "Why? I don't want any money," he insisted, his voice filled with sincerity.
"But I want to return them... kya pata kal phir se iss baat ka ehsaan yaad dilane lage." Ritika explained, her words unintentionally striking a chord in Arav's heart.
["Still, I want to return them... who knows, maybe tomorrow you will remind me of this favor again."]
He shrugged off the twinge of emotion, focusing instead on maintaining a comforting presence for Ritika"Aur aadat daal lijiye aap ab inn sab ki ardhangini ji," he teased playfully with a wink, attempting to lighten the mood.
Ritika rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a small smile.
In the evening, Siya stepped outside her house, adjusting her pleated skirt and shirt under her denim jacket. She was tying her hair back into a neat ponytail, ready for her evening plans.
"Mummy, Aru ke ghar jaen?" Siya asked, approaching her mother, who was watching TV.
"Ready ho ke puchne aa rahi hai? Jaa," Tara replied, shaking her head with a smile. Siya grinned, happy to have received permission. She quickly texted Arushi, letting her know she was actually going to meet Shashwat and asking her to cover for her.
As she made her way to the main door, she encountered Reyansh, who was adjusting his watch. He looked at her suspiciously, his brows furrowed.
"Kahan jaa rahi hai?" he asked, his tone laced with curiosity.
["Where are you going?"]
"Aap kahan jaa rahe hain?" Siya shot back , not missing a beat.
["Where are you going?"]
"Tujhse matlab," he retorted, clearly trying to evade her question.
"Haan toh aapse matlab?" she replied cheekily, raising an eyebrow.
"Shashwat se milne jaa rahi hai na?" Reyansh pressed, narrowing his eyes.
["You are going to meet shashwat right?"]
"Aap bhi toh Aru se milne jaa rahe..mai bataun kya Shashwat ko?" Siya countered, her tone challenging.
["You are also going to meet Aru, should I tell shashwat?"]
"Bakwas band kar. Jaldi aa jana," he said, conceding the point but not without a parting shot.
"Aap bhi," she replied with a smirk and left, feeling triumphant.
She walked up to him, finding Shashwat scrolling through his phone, completely engrossed. With a mischievous smile, she covered his eyes from behind. He smiled immediately, recognizing her touch, and gently held her hand, placing a soft kiss on her palm.
"Mishti," he called softly, pulling her gently in front of him. Her cheeks turned a delightful shade of pink.
"Aap kaise pehchan gaye!" she exclaimed, a bit disappointed that he had guessed so easily.
["How did you recognised.?"]
"Isse," he said, pointing to the distinctive ring on her middle finger. "Aur koi pagal toh nahi hoga ki kisi ki bhi ankh aise cover kar le bina jaan pehchaan ke aur maine tumhe bulaya hai toh obviously it will be you," he added, shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly.
["And who else would be crazy enough to cover someone's eyes like that without knowing them, and since I called you, it obviously has to be you."]
"Aap kitne bure hain... I thought you would say something like 'Mujhe tumhare aane ka ehsas ho jata hai,'" she said, pouting.
"Stop watching movies, beta," he teased, pulling her cheeks playfully.
"Beta kya hota hai? I am 17 years old," she said angrily, crossing her arms.
"Still one year younger than me," he replied with a grin.
"Ji ji Dadaji," she retorted, joining her hands mockingly, and he laughed heartily.
"Tumne aaj kajal lagaya hai na?" he asked, noticing her eyes with a focused look. She rarely applied kajal, so it was a noticeable change.
["You have applied kajal."]
"Haan. Ab chalen," she said, eager to change the subject.
They planned to walk instead of using any vehicle today, savoring the cool evening air. The sky was gradually darkening, casting an unexpected shadow over the streets.
"Ye mausam ko kya hua achanak? Itna andhera andhera sa hone laga... abhi toh 4 hi baj rahe," Siya remarked, glancing up at the unusually dark sky.
["What happened to the weather all of a sudden? It's starting to get so dark... it's only 4 o'clock."]
"Tune kajal lagaya, din me raat ho gayi," Shashwat quipped, singing the song lyrics with a playful smile.
"Hatiye... ye sab songs hamne bhi sune hain," she replied, trying to hide her blush but clearly amused by his antics.
They strolled down the quiet streets, the evening breeze ruffling their hair. Siya was animatedly telling him about the recent events involving Reyansh and Arushi.
"Vihaan?? Wohi jo sara time tumse chipakta rehta tha?? How dare he!! Meri behen ke sath itna kuch ho raha tha aur mujhe koi idea hi nahi tha," Shashwat exclaimed, his fist tightening in anger.
"Arre calm down!" Siya said, placing a soothing hand on his arm.
"How can I, Siya? Abhi bhi usse koi saza nahi mili meri behen ko pareshan karne ke liye. Ab peecha chhor diya toh kya hua... jo pehle usne kiya uske liye usko itne asani se maaf kaise kar den!" Shashwat retorted, his voice filled with frustration.
Siya gently took his fist and caressed it, her touch calming him down.
She then slipped her hand into his, holding it firmly.
"Hamari puri baat toh suniye... I am saying that you don't have to do anything.
Ham jaa ke papa ko batayenge and I am sure wo uske papa se baat karenge.
Hamare papa ko toh jante hi hain aap, baithe bithaye nani yaad dila denge usse uski," Siya explained with a reassuring smile, and he nodded slowly, her words sinking in.
["Listen to me completely... I am saying that you don't have to do anything. I'll go and tell Dad, and I'm sure he'll talk to his father. You know my dad, he'll remind him of his own mistakes without even trying."]
"Ab relax kariye," she said softly, and he smiled, squeezing her hand gratefully.
"Chai piyoge?" he asked, and she nodded as they walked towards a nearby tea stall.
"Vaise hame abhi yaad aa raha hai ki aapko chai nahi acchi lagti thi na?" Siya asked, teasingly.
"Aapke sath acchi lagti hai," he replied with a wink, making her blush and turn her face with a smile.
The tea vendor handed them two cups of steaming tea.
Shashwat took both cups and set them on a nearby bench.
"Bhaiya, ek cup milegi?" he asked the vendor, who handed him an empty cup.
Shashwat carefully poured half of the tea into the blank cup and handed both cups to Siya, knowing she couldn't hold the hot cup comfortably.
"Thank you," she said, smiling warmly at him.
[A/N- Listen "Ye vada raha, for better experience.]
After sipping their tea, they continued walking down an empty street, holding hands and sharing a pair of earphones. The song "Ye Wada Raha" began to play, its melodious tune filling the air and setting a nostalgic mood.
Siya started singing along with the song, and her body began to sway gently to the rhythm. She twirled around Shashwat, her steps light and playful, her hair swishing with her movements. Shashwat watched her, a chuckle escaping his lips at her enthusiasm, his eyes filled with affection.
As these lyrics played, Siya spun gracefully around Shashwat, holding his hand, her movements synchronised with the melody.
She leaned in closer as she sang the song and gently placed her hand on his cheek, making direct eye contact.
Then, she moved away, extending her arm, and he followed her, their hands still clasped.
For these lines, Siya held both of Shashwat's hands and started dancing in small, coordinated steps.
She moved closer, her eyes locked on his, and he played along, stepping in rhythm with her.
They moved together like two synchronised waves, their steps light and in harmony.
Siya raised their joined hands above their heads and swirled gracefully beneath them, her skirt flaring out.
Siya continued to sway gently, her movements fluid and graceful. She moved around Shashwat, holding his hand, and lightly spun him around, her steps echoing the song's rhythm. Her eyes sparkled as she sang to him, her smile bright and joyful.
Siya gestured widely with her free hand, emphasising the uniqueness and special bond they shared. She twirled back towards Shashwat, their hands still linked, and they continued to move in sync.
Siya lifted her head and looked into Shashwat's eyes as these final lyrics played. She held his gaze, her eyes filled with emotion.
Shashwat took the lead, pulling Siya gently closer as he sang. He placed his hand near her waist, not touching her but guiding her movements. They swirled together, Shashwat's steps firm and protective, ensuring their closeness remained unbroken.
Siya responded with a soft smile, her voice tender as she sang these lines. She caressed Shashwat's cheek, her touch gentle and reassuring. She moved around him, her hand trailing softly along his arm, and came back to face him, their connection unspoken but deeply felt.
Shashwat twirled Siya around, his movements confident and graceful. He held her hand firmly, pulling her close with a flourish. They moved together in perfect harmony, their steps mirroring each other.
As the rain began to fall, they continued to dance, the raindrops adding a magical touch to the moment. Shashwat placed his hand near Siya's waist, not touching her but guiding her close. They swayed together, their bodies in sync, the rain soaking them but adding to the romance of the scene.
"Chaliye ab," Siya urged, though she too was sad to see their time together end.
"Aree abhi kafi time hai par... aram se chalenge tab bhi pahoch jayenge," Shashwat said, hoping to extend their outing a little longer. They resumed their walk, taking in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood.
As they walked, Siya spotted a street vendor selling peanuts. On a whim, she bought a small packet and offered some to Shashwat with a bright smile. The fact that he was allergic to peanuts slipped her mind in her excitement.
Shashwat looked at the peanuts and then at Siya's eager face. Not wanting to disappoint her, he took two peanuts and ate them. Almost immediately, realisation dawned on Siya's face. Her eyes widened in horror, and she snatched the packet away just as Shashwat began to cough.
"Shashwat!!!" she exclaimed, panic rising in her voice. She quickly rubbed his back, trying to soothe him, and led him to a nearby bench. She hurriedly bought a bottle of water and handed it to him, her hands shaking.
"Aap... thik hain? I am so sorry... hame yaad hi nahi aaya achanak se... dawa laayen aapke liye?" she asked, her voice choked with guilt and worry, tears brimming in her eyes.
Coughing, Shashwat managed a weak smile. "I... I am fine," he said, trying to reassure her as he took deep breaths and drank some water. Since he had only consumed two peanuts, the reaction was mild, but the scare had shaken both of them.
"Aapka dimag kharab hai kya?? Hamare dimag se nikal gaya tha but aapko toh yaad tha na?? Matlab hadd ho gayi hai!!" she yelled, her worry turning into anger and frustration. Her eyes were still glistening with unshed tears.
"Tumne diya tha... toh," Shashwat began to explain, but Siya interrupted him, her voice rising.
"Toh ham kya zeher de denge toh kha lenge aap?" she asked incredulously. Despite the situation, Shashwat nodded cutely, trying to lighten the mood.
"You scared me... aapko kuch ho jata toh ham kya karte yahan pe? Hospital bhi yahan se door hai..." she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
"Mishti... please don't cry. I am sorry," Shashwat said, reaching out to wipe her tears, but she jerked his hand away.
"Hame koi baat nahi karni aapse!!" she exclaimed, turning away from him and starting to walk off.
"Mishti please... this was the last time.
.. aage se mana kar dunga," he promised earnestly, but she was too upset to listen.
She hailed an auto and left, leaving Shashwat sitting on the bench with a heavy sigh.
He watched her go, feeling a mixture of guilt and frustration, regretting his thoughtless action.
The sun was beginning its descent, casting a warm golden hue over the quiet neighbourhood where Reyansh and Arushi often met. They stood near Reyansh's bike, a familiar spot that had become their private place for goodbyes.
As Arushi started to walk away, Reyansh instinctively reached out and gently caught her hand, halting her steps. He leaned casually against his bike, a playful glint in his eyes as he sang softly, "Abhi na jao chhod kar, ki dil abhi bhara nahi."
Arushi turned back, a smile tugging at her lips. "Tumhara dil toh kabhi nahi bharega toh kya karoge?" she teased, her voice laced with affection and a hint of playful challenge.
"Kabhi nahi jaane dunga," Reyansh replied with a mischievous grin, bringing her hand to his lips and pressing a soft kiss to her knuckles. Her cheeks coloured slightly at his gesture, but her eyes sparkled with fondness.
"Arushi," he murmured, his tone softening as she met her gaze. There was a warmth in her eyes that made his heart skip a beat.
"Hmm?" she responded.
"Can I kiss you, on the cheek?" Reyansh asked quietly, his eyes searching hers with tenderness. His voice low and intimate, his thumb gently brushing against her cheek. Arushi felt her breath catch at the vulnerability in his gaze, and she nodded, a soft blush spreading across her cheeks.
Reyansh leaned in slowly, tilting his head to press a tender kiss on her cheek. The touch of his lips sent a rush of warmth through her, and she closed her eyes briefly, savouring the moment. When he pulled back, a gentle smile played on his lips, his eyes soft with affection.
"Ab jaun mai?" Arushi asked softly, her cheeks still tinged pink from the kiss. Her gaze held a mixture of shyness and happiness, her heart beating a little faster.
"Hmm," Reyansh replied reluctantly, releasing her hand with a lingering touch. Arushi turned to walk away, her steps light and filled with a newfound joy.
Just as she began to move, Reyansh couldn't resist calling out to her again. "Aru..." he called softly, his voice filled with warmth and longing.
She turned back, raising her eyebrows inquisitively, a small smile playing on her lips.
"Kya hua?" she asked, her eyes searching his with curiosity and affection.
"Kuch nahi... bas aise hi," Reyansh replied, smiling softly as he crossed his arms, watching her with adoration as she walked away. His heart felt light yet full, knowing that their bond was growing stronger with each passing moment.
Arushi continued on her way, a smile lingering on her lips as she thought about the sweet, tender moment they had shared. Reyansh remained standing there, his gaze following her until she disappeared from sight.
At night at the Malhotra residence, the family gathered in the living room. The sisters' combined bed had gotten drenched on one side due to an unexpected leak from the ceiling, and now they were discussing where everyone would sleep.
"Reyansh, tujhe akele hi sona hai na? Toh tu so jaa aaj wahan," Harsh suggested, pointing to the sisters' bed. "Aur Reyansh ka bed kaafi bada hai, toh tum teeno so sakte ho uspe," he added, looking at the sisters.
["Reyansh, you want to sleep alone, right? So, you can sleep there tonight," Harsh suggested, pointing to the sisters' bed. "And Reyansh's bed is quite big, so all three of you can sleep on it."]
Reyansh nodded, agreeing without much thought. "Okk."
"Great, problem solved," Harsh said, clapping his hands together.
Meanwhile, Akash was peacefully asleep when his phone suddenly rang, jolting him awake. Grumbling under his breath, he checked the caller ID-it was Shashwat.
"Ye aur hai meri neend ka dushman!" Akash muttered irritably as he answered the call.
"KYA HAIII??" he asked impatiently, not in the mood to deal with unexpected calls in the middle of the night.
"Akash, I need your help. Tu abhi mere ghar ke paas aa sakta hai kya?" Shashwat's voice sounded urgent and serious.
"Dimag kharab hai kya? Kahin chori karne jana hai?" Akash responded sarcastically, half-jokingly but curious about the unusual request.
"Yaar tu bas aa na.. mai bataunga phir," Shashwat replied cryptically and promptly disconnected the call before Akash could protest further.
"Hey bhagwan kya zulm hai!!" Akash exclaimed, tossing his phone aside and reluctantly dragging himself out of bed. He quickly got dressed and made his way towards Shashwat's house.
Shashwat and Akash stood near the window of Siya's house, the moonlight casting long shadows on the ground.
"Bhai, I don't think this is a good idea. Kal bhi mana sakta hai isse. Uske papa ne dekh liya na toh hamara court martial kar denge," Akash said, his voice filled with concern.
["Bro, I don't think this is a good idea. He could refuse tomorrow as well. If his dad sees us, he might put us through a court martial."]
"Nothing will happen. Dekh, usne bhi risk liya tha na mujhe manane ke liye. Jab wo mere liye aise risk le sakti hai toh why can't I?" Shashwat replied, determination etched on his face.
[" She took risk to talk to me . So if she can take the risk why can't I?"]
"Haan toh tu le na risk... meri band kyun bajana chahta hai sath me? Hey Bhagwan, kahan phas gaya hun aa ke," Akash muttered, shaking his head.
["Yeah, so you take the risk... why drag me into this? Oh God, where have I landed?"]
"Ye friendship karne ke pehle sochna tha... ab kar li toh you have to be with me. Stay here only, mai aata hun," Shashwat said, starting to climb the pipe.
"Dhyan se jana. Agar gira aur haddi tooti toh Malhotra sahab apni ladki nahi denge tujhe," Akash whispered urgently.
["Be careful. If you fall and break a bone, Mr. Malhotra won't give you his daughter."]
"Shut up!!" Shashwat hissed back, continuing his ascent.
Reaching the window, Shashwat found it slightly open. "How careless they are! Aise window khol ke kon sota hai!" he muttered to himself, shaking his head in disbelief. He carefully climbed inside the room, his eyes scanning the dim interior. On the bed, he saw a figure lying under the covers.
He frowned, trying to make sense of the situation. Siya had told him she usually slept with her sisters, but now there was only one person in the bed. He spotted Siya's familiar slippers near the bed, confirming her presence.
"Siya was saying that she used to sleep with her sisters. Aaj akele kaise! Jo bhi ho, it's good for me," he whispered, moving closer to the bed.
"Itni lambi kaise ho gayi!" he wondered aloud, noticing the figure seemed taller than he remembered. He sat down gently beside her and whispered, "Mishti!"
The figure stirred but didn't wake up. Shashwat took a deep breath and continued, his voice filled with regret and love. "Mishti, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry for everything.. I promise I won't do that again. I can't bear your silence anymore."
Shashwat's heart pounded in his chest as he stared at figure, his voice barely a whisper. "I love you, Mishti. Please, forgive me. I promise mai aage se kabhi nahi karunga aisa."
He reached out to hold her hand, only to frown as he noticed something unusual. Her typically soft palms felt rough and strange.
"Tumhare hath ko kya hua?" he asked, confusion etched on his face.
["What happened to your hand?"]
"Aapka thobde ka shape kharab karna tha isliye rough karna pada." Reyansh emerged from under the blanket, an unamused expression on his face. Shashwat's eyes widened in shock.
["I had to make it rough to mess up the shape of your face."]
"R.r.r.r.r.r.r..." he stammered, unable to form a word in shock.
"Haan Reyansh," Reyansh confirmed, standing up from the bed. Panic surged through Shashwat, and he tried to make a run for it. But Reyansh was quicker, grabbing his shirt from behind and pulling him back with a firm grip.
"Arre jaa kahan rahe hain jijaji, rukiye to! Sasural padhare hain shagun kon lekar jayega!" Reyansh's voice was laced with a hint of anger as he hold his shirt from back and yanked him back forcefully. His grip on Shashwat's shirt was firm.
["Where are you going, brother-in-law? Stop! Who will take the auspicious gifts to the in-laws' house?"]
"Ma....ma....ma...mai to bas....wo....wo..." Shashwat stammered, his face pale and eyes wide with fear.
"Tu adhi raat ko meri behan ke bedroom mein ghus aaya, sharam nahi aati kya?
Mai to tujhe acha khasa shareef samjhta tha.
Mujhe pata nahi tha tu itna ganda ladka niklega, ek ladki ke bedroom mein ghus aaya.
.. ye pehli baar hai ya iske pehle bhi aa chuka hai tu?
" Reyansh's voice was filled with anger, his eyes blazing as he interrogated Shashwat.
["You sneaked into my sister's bedroom in the middle of the night, aren't you ashamed? I used to think of you as a decent person. I didn't know you'd turn out to be so vile, entering a girl's bedroom... Is this the first time or have you done this before?"]
"Arre nahi mere bhai, wo to mai tujhe hi manane aaya tha. Tu gussa tha na mujhse, isliye," Shashwat lied, his voice trembling.
["I came to meet you. You were upset that's why."]
"Yaha dekh, meri shakal pe kya bewakoof likha hai? Mera naam Mishti nahi hai, pehli baat. Aur dusra, jin adaon se tu ye sab bol raha tha, saaf pata chal raha tha... and tu mujhe 'I love you' kyun bolega? Mai kya bewakoof dikhta hun?" Reyansh said, glaring at him, his anger palpable.
["Look here, does my face say 'fool' on it? First of all, my name is not Mishti. And secondly, with the manner in which you were saying all this, it was clear... And why would you say 'I love you' to me? Do I look like a fool?"]
"Wo... nahi yaar, wo mai apne dost ko 'I love you' nahi bol sakta kya? Aur apne best friend ko koi naam dena galat hai kya? Isliye maine teko naam diya... let's normalize it, bro," Shashwat said, trying to sound casual but failing miserably.
["Well... I mean, can't I say 'I love you' to a friend? And is it wrong to give a nickname to a best friend? That's why I gave you a name... let's normalize it, bro."]
"Bhai, tereko dhang se jhooth kehna bhi nahi aata. To mere ko bewakoof mat bana aur chup chap sach bata, ye pehli baar tu room mein ghusa hai ya pehle bhi?" Reyansh's voice was dangerously calm now, his eyes narrowing as he awaited the truth.
["Bro, you can't even lie properly. So don't try to fool me. Just tell me the truth: is this the first time you've entered a room, or has it happened before?"]
"Ab tu bakwas kar raha faltu ki. Ek thappad dunga, geeli bhindi jaisi shakal ho jayegi.... Siya mujhse gussa thi, isliye bas usse manane aaya tha. Aur tujhe apni behan pe trust nahi hai kya?" Shashwat said, his frustration evident.
["Stop talking nonsense. One slap, and your face will look like a soggy bhindi. I just came to pacify Siya because she was upset. And don't you trust your sister?"]
"Uspe to trust hai, par terepe nahi hai beta," Reyansh retorted, his tone final and unyielding.
Akash stood outside Siya's house, anxiously waiting for Shashwat. "Ye sorry bolne gaya tha kahin pakda to nahi gaya," he muttered to himself. Just then, he felt something on his foot.
"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!" he screamed, shaking his leg vigorously. A lizard fell off, and he quickly scanned the surroundings.
The door to Siya's house opened. "Harsh uncle! Shitt!! I think he heard me ... ab kya karun," Akash whispered, panicking. He darted behind a wall and, without thinking, slipped inside the house to hide.
Harsh, Siya's father, stepped outside. "Pata nahi ye bigde hue bache raat raat bhar jaag kar batmeezi kyun karte hain... inke maa baap ko inpe restriction laga dena chahiye," he grumbled, heading back inside and closing the door.
["Don't know why these spoiled kids stay up all night causing trouble... their parents should put some restrictions on them."]
Akash's heart raced. "Hey Bhagwan ab kaha jaun mai," he thought, searching for a hiding spot and then hides himself behind a sofa.
Meanwhile, Harsh noticed something amiss. "Ye Reyansh itni raat me kis se baat kar raha hai," he mumbled, heading towards Reyansh's room.
"Kahin Reyansh ne Shashwat ko dekh to nahi liya." Akash, fearing for Shashwat, followed Harsh silently, hiding himself in the shadows.
Harsh knocked on Reyansh's door. "Reyansh," he called.
Inside, Reyansh and Shashwat exchanged panicked glances. "Uncle kya kar rahe yahan meri to dhajiya uda denge... agar mai pakda gaya to tera bhi bata dunga."
["Uncle, what are you doing here? They'll tear me apart... if I get caught, I'll also tell them about you."]
"Tu apni behan ko phasayega kamine insaan?" Reyansh retorted.
["You will trap your sister now?"]
"Apni behan ka naam kon le raha par ye pakka bata dunga ki tera kisi ladki ke sath chal raha," Shashwat threatened in a whisper.
["I'll make sure to tell them that you're involved with a girl, without taking my sister's name."]
"Tu dhamki de raha mujhe?" Reyansh retorted.
["Are you threatening me?"]
"Aisa hi samjh," Shashwat shot back.
Harsh's voice grew louder. "Reyansh, open the gate. I know you're awake... and who are you talking to at midnight?"
Reyansh thought quickly. "Pehli baat to papa ham dono ko raat me ek room me dekh kar pata nahi kya sochenge... tu yaha chup jaa ye blanket se dhak khud ko," he said, directing Shashwat to lie on the bed and cover himself with a heavy blanket. Reyansh then piled cushions and pillows on top of him.
["First of all, papa will wonder what's going on if he sees us in the same room at night. You hide here and cover yourself with the blanket."]
He grabbed his ear pods and put them in his ears, trying to appear nonchalant. Taking a deep breath, he opened the door.
"Papa, aap yahan?" Reyansh greeted Harsh, feigning surprise.
Late at night, Harsh stood at the door, his face a mix of concern and frustration as he looked at his son.
"What were you doing and why didn't you open the gate? And why are you still awake at this late hour?" Harsh scolded, his voice stern.
Reyansh shifted nervously, trying to come up with an excuse. "Pp...papa wo Mai...." His eyes suddenly widened as he caught sight of Akash sneaking up behind Harsh, waving at him with a huge grin.
"Aaaaaaaaaaaa....Tu yaha kya kar raha hai?" Reyansh exclaimed, pointing.
["What the hell are you doing here?"]
Harsh's frown deepened. "Kya? Ye kya badtameezi hai?" he said angrily.
["What's this behaviour?"]
Reyansh quickly shook his head. "Nahi nahi papa, aapko nahi," he explained, trying to calm his father down.
["No papa, not you."]
Akash, realising he had been spotted, darted behind a pillar, trying to stay out of sight.
"To kisse? Koi bhoot hai kya peeche...aur pehle jawab do raat me itne der tak kar kya rahe, kis se baat kiye jaa rahe ho kabse...awaz aa rahi thi tumhari," Harsh demanded, clearly not convinced.
"Then who? Is there a ghost behind me? And first answer, what are you doing so late at night? Who have you been talking to for so long? I could hear your voice."
Akash, stepped out from behind the pillar and began dancing and mimicking Reyansh's gestures.
Reyansh, frustrated, shouted, "Ek thappad khayega tu...already usne dimag kharab kar diya ab tu bhi kar." Akash quickly hid behind the pillar again, his mischief momentarily halted.
["You'll get a slap. He's already messed up my mind, and now you're doing the same."]
Harsh, hearing the commotion, turned around but saw no one. "Ye tameez hai apne baap se baat karne ki Nalayak kahin ka." he asked, his voice rising in anger.
Meanwhile, Shashwat, who had been watching the whole scene unfold from under his blanket, could barely contain his laughter. He saw Akash dancing behind Harsh, adding to the absurdity of the situation.
Reyansh, desperate to clear up the misunderstanding, repeated, "Nahi papa aapko nahi."
Shashwat couldn't hold back his laughter and accidentally let out a loud chuckle, quickly covering his mouth with his hand.
Harsh, startled, turned around sharply. "Ye awaz kiski thi?" he demanded, his eyes scanning the room for the source of the sound.
Trying to salvage the situation, Reyansh burst into laughter, "Hahahahaha! Papa, mai hi hun... hahahahaha!" He continued to laugh, hoping to diffuse the tension.
Harsh's confusion only deepened as he stared at his son. "Pagal ho gaya hai kya?" he questioned, his brows furrowed in bewilderment.
Meanwhile, Ritika, Siya, and Divya were watching a movie when they heard Harsh and Reyansh raised voices from outside.
"Ye papa chilla kyun rahe?" Siya asked, her curiosity piqued.
["Why is he shouting?"]
"Let's see," Ritika suggested, pausing the movie.
The trio quietly left their room and headed towards the source of the commotion. As they neared, they saw Akash behind Harsh , as he waved at them too.
"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!" they screamed in unison, startling everyone.
"Ab tum teeno kyun chilla rahi?" Harsh demanded, his frustration mounting.
["Why are you shouting now?]
"Wo...kuch nahi papa...aapko pehli baar raat ko dekha jagte hue na isliye cheekh nikal gayi," Ritika quickly improvised, trying to cover up their surprise.
["Uh... nothing, Papa. It's just that seeing you awake at night for the first time startled me."]
"Tum charon pagal ho gaye ho kya?" Harsh exclaimed, feeling exasperated by the chaos.
"Tu gaya nahi abhi tak bhag yaha se," Reyansh said, addressing Akash with annoyance.
["Get lost"]
Harsh, losing his patience, took off his slippers and threatened, "Jyada batmeezi ho rahi hai ab."
"Arre papa wo....aapko nahi wo mere friend ka call hai to wo peeche se bakwas kar raha isliye usko bol raha tha," Reyansh quickly explained, pulling out his ear pods to add credibility to his lie.
["Papa not you. I am in call with my classmate and he is disturbing me."]
"Ohhh pehle nahi bata sakte the. Par tumhare ye dost ko tameez nahi hai ki raat me sone ka time hota hai," Harsh scolded, still skeptical but somewhat mollified.
["Oh, you couldn't say that earlier? But your friend here has no manners about respecting sleeping hours at night."]
"Ji papa, wahi to, isliye bas usse samjha raha tha," Reyansh said, nodding earnestly.
Siya leaned towards Ritika and Divya, whispering, "Ye Akash bhaiya itni raat ko Reyansh bhaiya ke room ke paas kya kar rahe?"
["What is Akash bhaiya doing near Reyansh's bhaiya's room at this time?"]
"Lagta hai Arushi aur Richa ko batana padega," Ritika murmured, causing Divya and Siya to exchange confused looks.
["I will have to tell Arushi and Richa."]
"Kya matlab?" Siya asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Kuch nahi, tum log abhi choti ho," Ritika whispered back, dismissing the subject.
Harsh, noticing their hushed conversation, barked, "Aur tum teeno kya khusur phusur kar rahi? Sona nahi hai? Bhago yaha se jaa ke so jao."
The trio nodded and scampered off, but not before Harsh turned and left, shaking his head at the night's absurdity. Seizing the moment, Akash dashed inside Reyansh's room, with Siya, Ritika, and Divya close behind.
"Ye sab ho kya raha hai?" Siya asked, bewildered by the scene before her.
["What's happening?"]
"Ye sab tere Shashwat ki wajah se hua hai," Reyansh replied, his face showing clear irritation.
["This all happened because of your Shashwat."]
"Unhone kya kiya wo bechare to hain hi nahi yaha pe," Siya defended, making a face.
"Acha, bada bechara hai na," Reyansh said sarcastically, pulling the blanket off his bed to reveal Shashwat, who gave a toothy smile.
"Shashwat, aap yaha?" Siya asked, thoroughly confused.
"Tum teeno best friend hi ho na bas," Ritika said with a horrified expression.
["You three are only best friends right?"]
"Didi yaar, pagal ho kya? Ye Mahajan Siya se adhi raat ko milne aaye the," Reyansh explained, pointing at Shashwat.
[This man came to meet Siya at this time.]
"Kya? Shashwat, you naughty boy," Ritika smirked, amused by the revelation.
"Arre nahi didi, bas maine galti se peanuts kha liya tha, mujhe uss se allergy hai. Usske bawajood Siya ne ek baar pehle bhi mujhe warn kiya tha ki agar maine khaya to mujhse baat nahi karegi. Isliye wo mujhse gussa thi, to mai bas sorry kehne aaya tha," Shashwat explained earnestly.
["Oh, no, didi, I accidentally ate peanuts, to which I'm allergic. Despite that, Siya had warned me earlier that if I ate them, she wouldn't talk to me. So, she was angry with me, and I just came to apologize."]
"Aww, so cute," Ritika cooed.
"Kya so cute... apna ye sasta romance mere hi ghar me dikhana hai tujhe? Papa ko janta hai phir bhi," Reyansh said, still annoyed.
"To uncle strict hain to iske liye kya ab iske liye dusri ladki ke room me jaun?" Shashwat retorted .
"Arre bas karo papa phir se aa jayenge," Ritika cautioned, glancing nervously towards the door.
"Pehle tum dono niklo yahan se," Reyansh instructed firmly, addressing Akash and Shashwat.
"Arre mujhe Siya se sorry to kehne de," Shashwat pleaded, attempting to approach Siya, but Reyansh held his shoulders firmly.
"Ek kheech kar dunga, jo baat karni hai subah karna," Reyansh warned.
"Gate se nikaliye aap log varna gir vir gaye to pana ban jayega dono ka," Siya added, concerned about their safety.
With careful steps, everyone made their way to the main gate. Reyansh cautiously opened the door, allowing Akash and Shashwat to step outside.
As Akash and Richa sat together at the café the next morning, enjoying a peaceful breakfast, Akash found himself enchanted by Richa's presence.
Her laughter, her animated gestures-everything about her seemed to glow in the morning light.
He couldn't help but steal glances at her, admiring how her eyes sparkled with every story she shared.
"Aise kya dekh rahe ho?" Richa asked, catching him staring again, her cheeks tinted with a shy smile.
Akash grinned, unable to resist teasing her gently. "Dekh raha hun ki jitni baar bhi tumhe dekhta hun, tum pehle se jyada khubsurat kaise lagne lagti ho?"
Richa's blush deepened, and she playfully rolled her eyes. "So cheesy!"
"Haan, inhi cheesy lines pe tumhari shakal aise laal ho jati hai," Akash teased back, his heart warming at her reaction.
"Huh! It's nothing like that. Jaldi karo school ke liye late ho jayega," Richa deflected, smoothly steering the conversation away.
Finishing their breakfast, they mounted Akash's bike.
The morning breeze tousled Richa's hair as they rode along, exchanging light banter and enjoying the calm before the day's hustle began.
Suddenly, a child darted across their path.
Akash's reflexes kicked in instantly as he swerved to avoid him, but in the process, the bike careened into a tree.
Both Akash and Richa were thrown to the ground in the impact.
Adrenaline surged through Akash as he quickly assessed himself and found no major injuries. Panic gripped him as he turned to check on Richa, his heart pounding in his chest. There she lay, unconscious on the road, her serene face now tinged with distress.
"Richa!!" Akash called out in alarm, rushing to her side. His hands trembled as he gently cradled her cheeks, brushing away strands of hair with fingers that betrayed his anxiety. Tears welled up in his eyes as he pleaded desperately for her to wake up.
"Richa... please, please get up," he implored, his voice wavering with emotion. Her eyelids fluttered open ever so slightly, responding weakly to his voice.
Concerned bystanders gathered around, offering help and suggesting they take her to the hospital. Akash nodded numbly, his mind racing with worry for Richa. He carefully lifted her, cradling her in his arms as gently as he could manage, and flagged down an auto-rickshaw.
"Make sure she stays awake... keep talking to her," the auto driver advised, recognizing the urgency of the situation.
Akash nodded fervently, his focus solely on Richa's well-being. He gently cupped her cheeks, trying to rouse her, his voice filled with love and concerned.
"Richu.. please stay with me.. keep your eyes open," he pleaded softly, brushing a stray strand of hair from her forehead. Tears streamed down his face as he kissed her forehead gently, his heart breaking at seeing her fragile state.
"I... I can't..." Richa's voice was weak, barely audible, but Akash refused to give up. He whispered words of encouragement, his grip on her hand tightening with determination.
"You can, baccha.. please," Akash urged, his voice trembling with emotion. He was desperate to keep her conscious, to ensure she received the medical attention she urgently needed.
Arriving at the hospital, Akash carried Richa inside urgently, his eyes darting around for medical help.
Nurses and doctors quickly took charge, wheeling Richa away for immediate treatment.
Akash stood there, feeling a mix of relief and fear wash over him.
He watched as they whisked Richa away, his hands trembling with unshed tears.
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