Chapter - 28
We reached Jaipur around noon, and as soon as we arrived, Aarav dropped me home before heading straight to his office. He said he had an important meeting, so he didn't even come inside. He's always so busy... but today, I need to tell him something important.
Tomorrow, I have to perform a dance at my college's event—it's a big celebration because the college is completing 50 years.
And the first person I want to tell is Aarav.
I hope he'll be happy... or at least, not mad.
Will he like it?I shake my head. Stop overthinking, Siya.
Just tell him when he comes home.
Buaji went to visit her friends, and Dadimaa was also not at home, so I decided to make evening chai for Maa, Chachi, and myself.
Carefully, I brewed the tea just the way they liked it and poured it into cups.
Then, I placed them on a tray and carried them to the garden, where Maa and Chachi were sitting, chatting about something.
"Here's your chai," I said softly, setting the cups down in front of them.
Maa smiled. "Thank you, beta."
Chachi took a sip and nodded. "You make really good chai, Siya."
I smiled shyly and sat down with them, wrapping my hands around my cup. As we drank, they asked about my trip, and I told them everything—about Bhai, Bhabhi, our ice cream outing, and the time we spent together. But I didn't share everything—some moments were just for me to cherish.
Chachi asked, "So, did you enjoy your time there?"
"Yes," I nodded, smiling. "It felt nice to be with Bhai and Bhabhi. I missed them a lot."
Maa looked at me carefully, then said, "That's good, but now, this is your home too."
I nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. Yes, this is my home now. But my heart still held onto the comfort of my Bhai and Bhabhi.
As I sat with them, my thoughts drifted to Aarav again. I just hope he comes home early today...
~~~~~~
It was already 11:45 at night. Everyone had finished their dinner, but Aarav and Arjun Bhaiya still hadn't come home. Buaji also didn't return today—she would come tomorrow.
Aarav had messaged me earlier, telling me he would be late and that I should eat and go to sleep. But how can I sleep without telling him? I have to tell him about my dance performance tomorrow.
I was so nervous about it. How will I perform in front of so many people? What if I forget my steps? What if people laugh at me?
I shook my head. No, no. I have practiced a lot. I will not make any mistakes. But still, a strange fear sat in my heart.
I checked the time again. Why is he taking so long today? Should I call him?
I picked up my phone but then sighed. No, he already messaged me that he'll be late. I should just wait.
I sat on the sofa, waiting for him, my eyelids feeling heavy. Just a little longer...
I don't know when I fell asleep there, still waiting for him.
After dropping Siya off, I reached my office. I had a meeting scheduled. The Delhi trip wasn't planned for an overnight stay—it was supposed to end yesterday evening. But for my Siya, I can reschedule any meeting, cancel any plan. She comes first.
I attended the meeting, and as expected, the proposal was in my favor. Once it was over, I walked into my cabin and called Arjun.
He arrived after some time, and I leaned back in my chair, my fingers tapping on the desk. "Did you find out who that hacker is?" I asked, my tone sharp and demanding.
Arjun nodded. "Bhai, the hacker's name is Harsh Tiwari. He only works for money. He said he received a call from an unknown number to hack our system."
I narrowed my eyes. "Who was behind it?"
Arjun sighed. "Bhai, the number isn't registered. I couldn't trace the person."
My jaw clenched. So, someone dared to go against me, but they're hiding in the shadows?
"So, you mean we don't know who tried to hack us?" I asked, my voice dangerously calm.
"Yes, Bhai."
"Fine. You can go back."
Arjun gave a slight nod and left. I picked up my phone and dialed a number. "I need you to handle something for me," I said coldly, giving my instructions before hanging up.
"Rohan," I called out.
Within seconds, my PA entered my cabin. "Yes, sir?"
"I want you to find out everything about Jay and Priya Rajput and their connection with Suresh and Meenakshi Rajput. What is their relationship? Why don't they get along? I want each and every detail."
"Yes, sir. I'll get it done as soon as possible."
"Good. Don't make me wait."
With that, he left.
I picked up my phone and sent Siya a message. I'll be late today. Eat your dinner and sleep on time.
After sending the message, I put my phone aside and got back to work. There are too many things to take care of... but one thing is certain—whoever is trying to play games with me will regret it.
It was midnight when Arjun and I reached the Rathore Palace. The entire house was quiet, but as soon as I stepped into the living room, my eyes landed on her.
Siya.
She was curled up on the sofa, fast asleep—uncomfortably. My jaw clenched. Didn't I tell her to eat and sleep on time? But no, she never listens to me. The whole world fears going against my words, yet she—only she—has the audacity to disobey me.
I sighed and bent down, carefully slipping my arms under her. As I lifted her, she instinctively shifted, her face burying into my chest. A small smile tugged at my lips, but I shook my head. This girl...
I carried her to our room and gently laid her on the bed. She stirred slightly but didn't wake up. Pulling the blanket over her, I watched her peaceful face for a moment. She doesn't even know what she does to me.
Running a hand through my hair, I stepped into the closet to change. After slipping into a comfortable t-shirt and track pants, I walked back to the bed.
I lay down beside her and pulled her close, resting her head on my chest. The moment she felt my warmth, she instinctively wrapped her arms around me.
I smirked. Even in sleep, she seeks me.
I tightened my arms around her, holding her close.This. This is my peace.
She doesn't know what she does to me. Doesn't know that she holds a power over me that no one else ever has.
I pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.
"Good night, meri jaan," I whispered.
And before I knew it, sleep took over—right there, with my angel in my arms.
I slowly opened my eyes, feeling the warmth of the blanket around me. Blinking a few times, I looked around and realized... I'm in my room?
My brows furrowed as I tried to remember how I got here. The last thing I remember was waiting for Aarav in the living room. Did he... bring me here?
A small blush crept up my cheeks at the thought. Of course, he must have. Who else would?
Shaking my head, I got up and decided to get ready first. I would talk to him afterward.
I walked into the bathroom, freshened up, and took a shower. Wrapping myself in a towel, I stepped out and picked a simple suit. After getting dressed, I packed an extra outfit for my performance.
Today is the big day—the day I have to dance in front of everyone. So many people... My hands felt slightly cold. What if I forgot the steps? What if everyone laughed at me? No, no. I have practiced a lot. I can do this.
Sighing, I picked up my phone and checked the notifications. There was a message from Aarav.
My heart skipped a beat as I quickly opened it.
Had to leave early for a meeting, so I'll have breakfast at the office.You looked peaceful in your sleep, so I didn't want to disturb you. Don't forget to eat before college, my angel.
I blinked as I read the message again. He... left without meeting me.
Tears welled up in my eyes. Now how will I tell him about my performance? I wanted to tell him first, to see his reaction, but now... now I can't.
I wiped my tears quickly. No, Siya. You can't cry over this. It's okay. You'll tell him later.
Taking a deep breath, I put my phone down and walked downstairs, trying my best to push my disappointment aside.
After finishing my breakfast, I stepped outside and sat in the car. "Kaka, first take me to the Shivji temple," I said softly.
Kaka nodded and started the car. The ride was peaceful, and soon we reached the temple. As I stepped inside, a sense of calm washed over me.
I joined my hands and closed my eyes. ShivjiPlease give me the strength to perform well today. I prayed silently, asking for courage.
Just as I was about to leave, Pandit ji noticed me and smiled. "Beta, you came after so many days," he said with warmth in his voice.
I lowered my eyes slightly. "Ji, Pandit ji... I didn't get time, but now I will come like before," I promised.
He placed his hand on my head, blessing me. "May God always keep you happy."
I smiled and thanked him before walking back to the car.
When we reached college, I saw Trisha standing near the entrance, practically bouncing in excitement. The moment she spotted me, she ran up to me.
"Siya! Finally! Do you know who's coming today as a guest?" she asked, her eyes shining.
I blinked in confusion. "Who?"
Trisha gasped dramatically. "God, Siya! You don't know anything! Didn't you check the WhatsApp group? All the girls are talking about him—his looks, his style!"
I shook my head with a small smile. I don't really care about any 'him.' My Aarav is the most handsome man, and no one else matters.
Trisha huffed. "Ask me again properly!"
I sighed, knowing she wouldn't stop until I played along. So, with an extra-sweet smile, I asked, "Who is coming, Trisha?"
She grinned. "He is Ki—"
Before she could finish, someone called out her name. "Trisha!"
We both turned and saw Karan walking toward us.
"Hey, guys!" he greeted us with a bright smile. "Siya, all the best for your performance. I know you'll do amazing!"
"Thank you," I said softly, feeling a little nervous again.
"I'll record your performance and send it to you later," he added.
I nodded, appreciating the thought.
"Okay, I have to check everything before the event starts since I'm the coordinator," he said before rushing off.
Trisha and I exchanged a look and then went to find the changing room. The event is about to start... and my heart is already racing.
I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my vibrant pink Rajasthani lehenga.
The rich embroidery and colorful borders made it look so beautiful.
My jewelry sparkled under the lights—heavy jhumkas, a maang tikka resting on my forehead, bangles adorning my wrists, and a layered necklace completing the look.
Trisha gasped dramatically as she clicked pictures of me. "Siya! You look like a royal queen!" she said with excitement.
I smiled but didn't say anything. Me? A queen? That sounded too grand, too unreal.
She placed her hands on her hips. "No, seriously! If you were born in a royal family, I swear you would have been the Queen of Rajasthan."
I shook my head, but before I could respond, she took a little kajal from her eye and put it behind my ear. "Now, no one's evil eye can harm you," she said, grinning.
I looked at her with gratitude. Trisha always cared for me in her own playful way.
Before I could say anything, we suddenly heard loud noises outside. Girls were rushing out of the changing room, whispering and giggling excitedly. I frowned in confusion.
"What's happening?" I asked, turning to Trisha.
She smirked. "I told you, Siya. The girls are crazy to see him."
I just shook my head and turned back to fix my outfit. I didn't care who 'he' was. I had more important things to focus on—like my performance.
Trisha grabbed my hand. "Come on, let's go! We'll see him together."
I hesitated. I wasn't interested in seeing anyone, and my nerves were already making my heart race. "You go," I said softly. "I'm feeling a little nervous. I'd rather sit alone for a while."
Trisha pouted. "Fineee, but don't overthink too much, okay?" she said before rushing outside, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
I took a deep breath, placing my hand over my racing heart. I just have to focus on my dance. That's all that matters.