Sold to the Thakur's

Pookie pati ji and Oberoi's

Heyy hiii mayawiyans

The end of this chapter will definitely shock you, so get ready for the chapter??

As you all know, I was having my exams that's why the updates were delayed. My theory papers are done, but my practicals are still left, so I'm still busy with those. The next update will take a little longer, but once I'm done with everything, you'll start getting regular updates again.

And by regular, I don't mean daily updates just more consistent ones. ? ????

No votes and comments no updates??

Devyani was still in the bathroom, pacing restlessly in her bathrobe, biting her lower lip. She had called him once, twice... even shouted "Kaizan ke pita ji, suniye na!" but he never came.

Now she stood staring at her reflection in the mirror, cheeks puffed and eyes watery.

Meanwhile, Rivan was standing just outside

"Unbelievable," he muttered, pressing his palm against his forehead.

"She is inventing new ways to humiliate me. If not with ridiculous names, then with her stupid kisses. God knows who is teaching her all this... and why the hell she is trying them on me."

He exhaled sharply, tilting his head back.

"She doesn't even realize what she says... and then she makes those damn puppy eyes. I swear she's either the most innocent creature on earth... or the most dangerous one for my sanity."

Rivan shut his eyes, clenching his jaw. This girl will be the end of me.

And when her voice floated again, this time softer, almost pleading—

"Pati ji... please come, I... I don't have clothes..."

His heart skipped, and his anger tangled with something else entirely.

Rivan's voice was cold and cutting as it echoed through the bathroom door.

"I'm going out. Come yourself and take it. I am not your servant... neither your husband to do such stupid things."

The words sliced straight through Devyani's heart. Her fingers tightened around the bathrobe knot as tears welled up. She whispered to herself, barely audible,

"Not even... husband..."

Her chest ached, but she bit her lips hard, forcing back the sobs. After a long pause, she opened the door quietly, snatched the clothesand hurriedly changed into a simple saree. She didn't want to face him—not when her heart felt so shattered.

Dinner time arrived, and Devyani walked into the grand dining hall, her eyes slightly puffy from crying. She quietly settled at her place, keeping her gaze lowered.

Everyone at the table noticed instantly. Normally, she would blush, fumble, or smile nervously at their mischievous grins, but today... she was withdrawn. Silent. Her spoon stirred the curry slowly, but she didn't take a bite.

Across the table, Virendra Thakur narrowed his eyes, instantly aware that something was off. His gaze shifted toward the empty chair of his eldest son.

Rivan.

The atmosphere at the table grew quieter than usual. Normally filled with chatter and teasing, tonight everyone held back. They respected her silence,though a few worried glances kept exchanging between them.

And in that heavy silence, Devyani sat lost in her own world, her heart replaying those cruel words— "I am not your husband."

The clinking of spoons and the quiet rustle of plates suddenly ceased when Rivan entered the dining hall. His heavy footsteps echoed across the marble floor, and the air grew tense. Nobody dared to even breathe too loudly, knowing how unpredictable the eldest Thakur could be.

He strode forward with his usual cold authority, pulling out the chair beside Devyani. But before he could sit—

Devyani quickly pushed her chair back.

"I am done... umm... my stomach is full," she muttered, her voice trembling but firm. Without meeting his eyes, she turned and walked out of the hall.

The entire family froze. Every single person at the table had seen her plate—untouched, not a single bite taken.

Rivan stood there for a moment, completely thrown off. His brows knitted together. What the hell just happened? He didn't even remember the harsh words he had thrown at her earlier. He couldn't understand why she looked so... hurt.

His chest tightened unexpectedly, a strange sting pressing inside him. But almost immediately, he crushed the feeling.

Ignore her. She is here just for one year. That's it.

Expression hard as stone, he sat down, but his appetite had vanished. After only a few minutes of pretending to glance at his phone, he pushed his chair back and left the hall, attending a business call instead.

The silence that followed was heavier than before.

Jinal whispered, "Did... did bhabhi really just walk away from bhaiya?"

Aaradhya looked down, her lips pressed together. "Yes... and she didn't eat a single bite."

Rekha eye lingered on the doorway where Devyani had disappeared, worry clouding her face. Virendra Thakur leaned back in his chair, his sharp gaze shifting between his son's retreating figure and his daughter-in-law's absence.

The family exchanged confused looks. Something was happening between the newlyweds—something none of them could understand.

The night air was calm, carrying the faint scent of wet earth after the unexpected rain. Devyani sat on the garden bench, hugging her knees, her face puffed from tears and her saree still slightly damp. She poked the gravel beneath her sandals like a sulking child.

A deep, familiar voice broke the silence.

"What happened to my Devyani?"

She quickly wiped her face, trying to hide her tears, as Virendra Thakur her sweet uncle—came and sat beside her.

"N-nothing, uncle," she murmured.

Virendra tilted his head, studying her. His voice softened, teasing, "Hmm... so Devyani is upset with her sweet uncle?"

Her eyes widened, and she immediately shook her head. "No no, sweet uncle! I am not upset with you. Never with you!"

He smiled faintly. "Then with whom are you upset?"

Devyani hesitated, biting her lip, then blurted out like a little child complaining, "Ummm.

.. it's your son. The monster! He always scolds me.

.. he is very bad, uncle. Very, very bad!

He's just like the monsters I've seen on TV.

You know, I don't even do anything, but still he scolds me unnecessarily.

He is the baddest person in the entire haveli. Worse than... worse than the ghosts!"

Virendra's eyes narrowed slightly, though amusement flickered in them. "Ghosts?"

Devyani nodded with a straight face, whispering dramatically, "Yes, uncle. Ghosts. There are twenty ghosts roaming around at night. You know... that's why I never step out of the room at night."

Virendra blinked once and then asked in disbelief, "Who told you this nonsense?"

"The monster," she said innocently. "He told me. He said at night, twenty ghosts roam this haveli, and they'll take me away if I wander out."

For the first time in a long while, Virendra's lips curved into a genuine smile. He knew instantly—Rivan had said it to her. And if Rivan had wasted his breath to tell such a thing... then something unusual was definitely brewing inside his son.

Virendra folded his arms, smirking knowingly. "Ah... okay. If he's telling you, then there must be ghosts. After all, my son knows everything about this haveli."

Devyani huffed, resting her chin on her knees. "Uncle, he is very bad. Do you know... he doesn't even let me kiss him! I just wanted to calm him, but he—" she puffed her cheeks, "—he pushed me away. He's very bad!"

Virendra chuckled heartily this time, unable to hold back.

Devyani frowned, tilting her head. "Why are you laughing, uncle?"

He shook his head, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Nothing, Devyani. It's just... it seems your monster is slowly turning into a pookie."

She blinked, utterly confused. "Hein? What? What is... pookie?"

Virendra leaned closer, lowering his voice like he was sharing a great secret. "Pookie means... someone who pretends to be scary, rude, and cold... but actually, inside, they're soft and full of love. A person who tries to act like a lion but deep down is a teddy bear."

Devyani's mouth formed a small 'O.' "Uncle... are you saying my monster... is a teddy bear?"

Virendra laughed again, patting her head gently. "Maybe not a teddy bear yet... but surely, my girl, he's becoming your pookie. Slowly... very slowly."

After spending some more time chatting with Virendra, Devyani finally yawned and decided to return to her room. She dragged her tired feet up the stairs, still muttering under her breath about "monsters" and "ghosts."

The moment she pushed open the door, a rich aroma hit her nose—warm, spicy, mouth-watering. Her stomach betrayed her instantly, growling so loudly that even Kaizan, lying near the couch, flicked his ears.

Her eyes widened. Right in front of the bed, on the table, was a tray of steaming hot food—paneer curry, rotis, rice, and a sweet dish.

And sitting lazily on the chair beside it, her pati Parmeshwar ji, Rivan Thakur , was leaning back with his arms folded, his sharp eyes fixed on the food as if evaluating it like a business deal.

Rivan closed his eyes for a moment, inhaling deeply. His voice was low and calm, almost appreciative.

"Hmm... what a smell. Tasty. Delicious."

For a second, Devyani's lips twitched upward—was he really praising food like that? But then she remembered how he had scolded her earlier, and she immediately pressed her lips into a pout, deciding to ignore him completely.

She looked away, walked straight towards the cupboard, and pretended like she didn't hear him at all.

Meanwhile, her stomach growled again—louder this time.

Rivan's eyes shifted to her, one brow raising, catching her little act.

Devyani came out of the washroom, her soft cotton frock clinging slightly to her damp skin, a shawl wrapped around her shoulders. She didn't even look at Rivan. Quietly, she grabbed a pillow and blanket and went to the couch.

Normally, she would spread herself on the floor like a little stubborn kitten, but tonight she wasn't in the mood. Even if she did, somehow by morning she always ended up in bed—mystery solved but never admitted.

She curled herself on the couch, hugging the pillow tightly, but the aroma of the food was killing her. Her lips pressed into a pout, and her stomach gave another growl. She pulled the blanket tighter to hide her embarrassment.

Across the room, Rivan was leaning casually on the chair, his long fingers tapping the table beside the untouched dishes. His deep voice cut through the silence, deliberately loud enough for her to hear.

"Kaizan baby," he drawled smoothly, "this food is.

.. hmm... unbelievably tasty. I've never tasted anything this delicious in my entire life.

" He lifted the lid of the curry just to let the smell spread further, his lips curving into a smirk.

"But look at this—it's too much for me to eat alone. If only you could eat with me, hmm?"

Kaizan, sprawled on the carpet, tilted his head in confusion.

Rivan's sharp eyes flicked to Devyani. Then, in a calm whisper that only Kaizan understood, he gave a little signal with his fingers.

The panther's golden eyes gleamed in mischief. He got up, padded silently towards the couch, and stopped right in front of Devyani.

Devyani blinked at him. "Kaizan... why are you here? Go sleep," she whispered, stroking his head.

But Kaizan didn't move. He kept nudging her hand, then looked back at Rivan, then at her again, like a messenger on a secret mission.

Devyani frowned, confused. "Why are you staring like this? What do you want?"

Rivan smirked to himself, murmuring under his breath, "Smart boy... you understood the mission."

Devyani frowned as Kaizan suddenly grabbed the hem of her frock gently between his teeth and started tugging.

"Kaizan... what are you doing? Leave my frock!" she whispered in panic, holding it tightly with her tiny hands.

But the panther was stubborn. He tugged again, a low growl vibrating from his chest as if warning her don't argue, just come.

Devyani's eyes widened. "Arre... what do you want,Kaizan? Do you want me to play with you? It's already night!

But Kaizan didn't stop. He tugged and tugged until she stumbled up from the couch. Her little feet shuffled nervously as he practically escorted her across the room.

"Kaizan... stop pulling me! Where are you taking me? I didn't do anything wrong today!" she squeaked, clutching her blanket around her.

And then she froze.

He had taken her directly in front of the table. The table where the steaming hot food was laid, the smell now stronger and even more tempting.

Devyani blinked, confused. "You brought me here? But... but why? Do you want food?" She tilted her head, thinking hard. "But you don't eat curry and roti... you eat... you know..." she whispered dramatically, "...meat."

Behind her, Rivan sat with his arms folded, his expression perfectly calm—but inside, a victorious smile curved in his mind.

That's my boy. Always knows what his father wants without me saying a word.

Devyani, still utterly clueless, crouched down to Kaizan. "So what do you want, hmm? Food? Or are you... playing a prank on me?"

Kaizan gave her a gentle headbutt towards the chair, clearly signaling sit down.

Rivan leaned back in the chair, his sharp eyes fixed on her.

"Oh, Kaizan wants his mumma to eat something," he said smoothly, his deep voice echoing in the quiet room.

Kaizan gave a low approving growl, almost like he was answering his master—yes.

Devyani immediately shook her head, clutching her shawl tighter. "I'm not eating anything. Didn't I already say I'm... I'm full?"

The words had barely left her lips when her stomach betrayed her. A loud growl echoed in the silence, making her freeze.

Her cheeks flushed red, and she quickly looked away, embarrassed beyond words.

Rivan's lips curved into a slow, knowing smirk. He leaned forward, murmuring in a tone that was both mocking and strangely soft, "Stubborn kid."

Before she could react, he reached out and grasped her wrist firmly.

"Wha–what are you doing?" she stammered, trying to pull back.

But Rivan didn't answer. With a swift tug, he pulled her toward him. She stumbled, letting out a tiny gasp, and before she knew it—she was sitting right on his lap, her breath caught in her throat.

Her small hands pressed against his chest in panic, eyes wide. His strong arm wrapped around her slender waist, holding her securely in place as if daring her to even think of escaping.

Her heart thudded so loud she was sure he could hear it.

"Now," he said in a low, commanding whisper near her ear, his breath brushing her skin, "you're going to eat."

Devyani shook her head frantically. "N-no, I said I'm—"

But his grip on her waist tightened slightly, sending a shiver through her.

"You talk too much," he cut her off. "And when you talk, you only say things that annoy me." His eyes narrowed, then softened just a fraction. "So tonight... just shut up and listen."

Devyani's throat went dry. She wanted to argue, to protest... but his closeness, his warmth, and the way his deep eyes pinned her down—it was too much.

Kaizan huffed from the side, lying down comfortably, as if satisfied his mission was complete.

Rivan shifted her off his lap and made her sit right beside him, close enough that her shoulder brushed against his arm. Without saying a word, he pulled the plate toward himself, tore a piece of roti, dipped it in curry, and lifted it to her mouth.

Devyani's eyes widened. She had never—never—seen him like this. His hands, which she had always known to be ruthless and cruel, were now gentle, careful, as if holding something fragile.

Her lips parted slightly in shock, but she didn't move.

"Eat," he commanded softly.

Her lashes fluttered, and after a second of hesitation, she opened her mouth and let him feed her. The taste of food mixed with something else—his unexpected tenderness. Her heart was racing so fast she almost forgot to chew.

His gaze never left her face. "Why didn't you eat at the dining table?" he asked, tearing another bite for her.

Devyani lowered her eyes, voice barely a whisper. "Because you... scolded me."

Rivan's jaw tightened for a moment. He slipped the roti to her lips again and muttered, "Because you are a kid... and kids are meant to be scolded."

Her brows furrowed, and she quickly chewed. "I am... not a kid," she said softly, pouting as if trying to prove her point.

He glanced at her sideways,and placed the next bite in her mouth. "So you're upset with me?"he asked, his tone softer than usual. Devyani kept her gaze lowered, her fingers twisting in her saree Pallu, before giving the smallest nod. "Ji."

A faint smirk tugged at his lips. "Aur main ab apko kaise manaun?" he teased, his voice dipping low, almost playful.

But her reply was quick, firm despite the tremble in her voice. "Mat manaiye."

His brow arched in disbelief. "Mat manau? Matlab, gussa rehne ka full plan hai?" His tone carried both amusement and challenge, as though he couldn't believe his timid little wife had the audacity to say that.

"Haan!" she shot back, her lips trembling but her eyes glassy with determination. "Aapne hi toh kaha tha... ki aap mere pati nahi ho. Toh phir kyu manayenge mujhe?"

Her words sliced through the air like a blade, catching him off guard. For a moment, silence pressed between them. He blinked, stunned, the retort dying on his tongue.

The innocence in her words twisted something sharp inside him, leaving him speechless—torn between anger, guilt, and an unfamiliar ache he couldn't name.

His eyes darkened with something unreadable. "So what's the reason?"

She swallowed and looked up at him, her voice trembling with honesty. "Same... you scolded me."

For a long moment, he just studied her face—the innocence, the hurt lingering in her eyes, the way she chewed like a little child. Then, as if to cover the strange pull in his chest, he leaned back lazily and asked suddenly, "Who taught you to kiss?"

Her eyes widened, her cheeks immediately turning red. She fumbled with her shawl and whispered, "Umm... Aru."

Rivan's hand stilled midair, but only for a second. "Aru?" he repeated, his voice sharp but oddly low.

"Yes..." she murmured nervously. "Why?"

He looked away, masking the flicker of jealousy that stabbed through him. He shoved the next bite toward her lips, his tone deceptively casual. "Umm... nothing then."

Devyani blinked at him, confused. He didn't ask further, only kept tearing small bites, feeding her carefully as if she were someone precious.

And between those bites, he asked her silly little questions—about what she likes more, laddoos or jalebi.

.. whether she thinks Kaizan looks scarier in the dark. ..

She answered each one shyly, sometimes fumbling, sometimes pouting. And with each answer, his smirk grew softer, his gaze warmer—though he would never admit it.

By the time the plate was empty, her earlier hurt was long gone, replaced by a strange warmth that made her chest ache.

And for the first time, she thought... maybe the monster wasn't always a monster.

Devyani chewed her last bite happily, then looked at him with a toothy grin. Her eyes sparkled like a child who had just discovered something new.

"Pati ji..." she called softly.

Rivan, still holding the plate, gave a low hum. "Hmmm?"

"You are so pookie... cute-cute pookie."

The word slipped from her mouth with such innocence that Rivan froze. His eyes widened instantly. For a man who could face a hundred enemies without flinching, this single word left him completely defenseless.

His throat bobbed as he swallowed, and his hand instinctively touched his face. It was burning hot. The atmosphere around him suddenly shifted—too warm, too strange, too dangerous for his sanity.

He narrowed his eyes at her, trying to cover up the turmoil inside. "Kahan jaake sikh ke aati ho ye sab?"

(Where do you even go and learn all these things from?)

Devyani giggled, leaning closer as if whispering a secret. "Sweet uncle told me...that if a person is hard from the outside but soft from the inside, they're called a pookie... it means they are not monster, but cute monster."

Rivan blinked. Cute. Monster. Him. The great Rivan Thakur

She smiled wider, her voice soft, sweet, and so unguarded. "See, pati ji... you are not monster... you are just my pookie."

Something inside him cracked. He clenched his jaw and looked away sharply, hiding the strange heat crawling through his chest, the one word echoing in his mind—pookie.

Devyani, still glowing with her innocent smile, tilted her head and added mischievously, "Pookie pati ji..."

That was it.

Rivan's composure shattered. He pressed his palm hard against his chest as though the word had physically struck him. His voice came out rough, almost strangled—

"Fuck... stop it! I can't handle this much sweetness."

For the first time, it looked like the ruthless Rivan Thakur was actually retreating... from his own wife's innocence. Without another word, he stood up abruptly, snatched his coat from the chair, and stormed out of the room—his footsteps heavy, his ears and neck flushed red.

Devyani blinked, confused. Then she puffed her cheeks and plopped onto the bed, pulling her pillow into her lap.

"Uff... you fuck.....you always use this word," she muttered in her broken pouty tone, trying to imitate his anger. "One day I have to know... what does that mean!"

She hugged her pillow tighter, still pouting like a child, while Kaizan tilted his head at her as if laughing at her cluelessness.

Meanwhile, outside in the corridor, Rivan ran his hand through his hair, muttering under his breath.

"Pookie pati ji... what the fuck... who even teaches her these things..."

That night, even after all her pouting, Devyani curled herself on the couch.

Next Morning

Sunlight peeked through the curtains, kissing her cheeks. Devyani stirred, stretched her hands like a sleepy kitten... and the moment her eyes fluttered open, she froze.

She was on the bed.

Again.

Her eyes widened. She looked at the neatly folded blanket around her and then at the empty space beside her.

"Arrey..." she whispered under her breath, pressing her palm to her forehead, "Devyani, you stupid stupid girl... why do you always end up here?!" She bit her lip, pouting at herself. "Every night floor... every morning bed. Kya pareshani hai teri, haan?"

With a dramatic sigh, she tiptoed out of the blanket, almost as if sneaking away from a crime scene. Hugging her clothes close, she hurried into the bathroom for a shower, muttering little curses at herself all along.

Meanwhile, Rivan, who had been awake for a while, stood at the window with his coffee mug, watching her antics silently. A ghost of a smile touched his lips before he masked it again with his usual stone face.

After breakfast, Devyani wandered through the haveli's endless corridors. The place was so big, she often ended up lost. She pressed her Pallu to her chest and muttered to herself,

Finally, after asking a servant, she found her way and knocked gently.

Inside, Reyansh was adjusting his tie in the mirror, busy muttering about meetings.

"Yes, the deal papers are ready... just the presentation left..."

A soft voice came from the door.

"Bhaiyya..."

Without turning, Reyansh answered, "Yes, come in, Devyani."

Devyani stepped in shyly, looking around his neatly arranged room. She held her Pallu nervously, then asked in the smallest voice,

"Reyansh bhaiyya... can I ask you something?"

Still distracted, Reyansh replied, "Yes, what happened?"

Devyani leaned closer, whispering like it was a top secret,

"Bhaiyya... what is the meaning of fuck?"

Reyansh froze.

His hands stopped fixing his hair, his jaw literally dropped.

"What??" He spun around, staring at her like she had grown two heads.

Devyani blinked innocently, her big eyes sparkling.

"Please tell me na, what does fuck mean?"

Reyansh muttered under his breath, "That idiot Rivan... doesn't even know when to use what word... ghadha"

Devyani tilted her head. "Bhaiyya, did you say something?"

Reyansh quickly forced a smile. "No no, nothing. Just... um... come, sit."

She pouted, tugging at his sleeve.

"Then tell me please. Monster said this word"

Reyansh nearly choked. Monster = Rivan. Of course.

He sighed and sat down, motioning her to sit too.

"Devyani... listen carefully. This word is... very, very special. Ummmmmm....Only a husband says it to his wife."

Her eyes widened with excitement. "Really??"

"Yes," Reyansh nodded quickly, trying to look serious. "It actually means... care. Yes.....yes it means caring. Whenever your husband says it, it means he is showing you extra love and care."

Devyani gasped like she had just discovered a hidden treasure.

"Ooooh! So that's why my pati ji says fuck again and again? Because he cares for me?!"

Reyansh nodded so fast his neck almost cracked.

"Exactly! It's like... when he uses that word, he's basically showering you with love."

Devyani clasped her hands together, smiling brightly.

"Wow! My pati ji is so caring. He is not only pookie but also caring!"

Meanwhile, Reyansh inside his head:

God save me... if Rivan ever finds out I explained this, my funeral will be tomorrow.

But on the outside, he just kept smiling like the world's biggest liar.

Everyone was gathered in the grand hall, chit–chatting after evening tea. The atmosphere was light, filled with laughter, until Yashodha straightened a little and cleared her throat.

"I have some good news for everyone."

At once, the chatter stopped. All eyes turned toward her, curiosity rising.

"What is it, bhabhi?" Rekha asked eagerly.

"Ha maa, tell us quickly!" Aaradhya pressed with a wide grin.

Yashodha smiled softly before her gaze fell on Jinal.

"One proposal has come... for our Jinal."

The room froze in pin–drop silence before gasps erupted all around.

"For Jinal?!" Bua exclaimed, adjusting her glasses.

"Who is the boy?" Aditya asked in surprise.

Yashodha's eyes sparkled with pride.

"It's none other than the Oberoi family."

The hall exploded with shocked voices.

"The Oberois?!" Rajmata's usually composed face showed genuine surprise.

"The business tycoons of Mumbai?!" Samarveer muttered, stunned.

Rekha covered her mouth with her saree. "Oh my god... they are one of the most powerful families!"

Rudraksh , who always had a joke ready, whistled. "Arre wah, Jinal didi Oberois ki bahu banegi?That's next level."

Everyone's excitement rose higher and higher, imagining the grandeur, the power, the prestige of such a proposal.

Jinal, however, sat stiff,eyes fixed on her lap as she fidgeted with her bangles.

Everyone's faces glowed with happiness—except Jinal.

She kept tugging at the edge of her dupatta, her nervous fingers twisting the fabric.

Her smile looked bright on the surface, but her eyes betrayed her heart, which was pounding so fast it felt like it might burst. A thin sheen of tears welled up, but she quickly blinked them away and masked her expression.

Devyani, sitting cross-legged on the couch, clapped softly with childlike excitement. She didn't know who the Oberois were, nor what empire they controlled, but seeing the joy on everyone's faces made her happy too. "Wah, Jinal... how exciting!" she chirped.

Rekha leaned forward immediately, curiosity written all over her face.

"But when did they even see our Jinal? And how did they send the proposal?"

Yashodha smiled knowingly, as if she had been holding this secret for some time.

"They saw her at the annual party last year.

.. the one hosted by our company. At that time, they were quite impressed with her grace and manners.

They had been wanting to talk since then but didn't get a chance.

Finally, just yesterday, they spoke to me directly. "

The hall erupted in murmurs again. Rajmata lifted her brows, intrigued. "Yesterday? And you kept it from us till now?"

Yashodha folded her hands politely.

"Yes, Maa-sa. Because the boy's mother said she would first confirm with her son if he was ready. And guess what..." She paused for effect, glancing at Jinal with a smile. "He is ready."

Everyone gasped again, this time louder.

"What?!"Samar exclaimed.

"Arre wah!" Rudraksh grinned, nudging Payal. "Jinal ke to maze hi maze."

Yashodha continued, her voice calm but filled with excitement.

"They have invited us to Mumbai for the inauguration party of their new company. They said it will be a good chance for both families to know each other properly... and for the children to meet."

The hall filled with buzzing voices again—some excited, some stunned.

Devyani's eyes sparkled as she clapped her hands softly. "Ohhh, so Jinal will get to go to Mumbai! How exciting!"

Rajmata's lips curved in a rare smile. "This is indeed a prestigious alliance. We must prepare well."

Jinal stood abruptly, her voice low. "I have some work... I'll be back."

Everyone burst into chuckles at her retreating figure.

"Areee, the bride got shy," someone teased, and laughter filled the hall.

But Rudraksh leaned forward, frowning slightly. "Badi Maa, why should we go there first? They should come to our house instead."

Yashodha smiled with maternal patience. "Rudraksh,what harm is there? We are simply attending their inauguration party—it will be for just two or three days. We can also take the chance to see the new city, hmm?"

Rajmata, who had been quiet, finally spoke in her calm, commanding tone.

"Before anything else, speak with Virendra And... don't forget, Rivan is also staying in the haveli now."

The air shifted. The moment his name was spoken, the laughter died, and an uneasy silence filled the room. Everyone exchanged glances.

Yashodha cleared her throat gently. "I have already informed Virendra, Maa. And I am certain Samar will not oppose this match." She paused, lowering her eyes thoughtfully. "The only one left is Rivan... Perhaps you, or Baba-sa, should speak with him."

The weight of the suggestion settled over them like a stone. Everyone knew Rivan was not the kind of man who could be convinced easily, especially about matters of marriage and alliances.

Payal, who had been listening with shining eyes, suddenly leaned forward.

"So... what's the groom's name, Badi Maa?"

Yashodha smiled, her voice full of pride. "He is Rajveer Oberoi."

The hall went still for a beat. Then Rudraksh's eyes widened in disbelief.

"Dammm... Rajveer Oberoi? The business tycoon?" His tone carried both awe and shock. "He's just like Rivan Bhaiyya—no, he is as powerful as Bhaiyya in the Oberoi world! Oh my god... he's so popular! I'm very excited."

Payal clapped her hands in delight. "Wah! So when are we going to Mumbai?"

Yashodha chuckled softly. "The party is after three days."

Payal gasped dramatically. "Three days only? Dammm... I have so many things to prepare! Makeup, dress, heels..."

Everyone rolled their eyes in unison.

"You only ever think about this, Payal," Rudraksh muttered, shaking his head.

But Rajmata's sharp voice cut through their lighthearted banter.

"Stop this delusion. Nothing is final until Rivan gives his consent."

Her words dropped like thunder in the hall. The joy dimmed instantly. The siblings exchanged wary glances; they knew well how unpredictable Rivan's temper could be.

Jinal hurriedly walked down the corridor, her dupatta slipping from her shoulder, her heartbeat thundering in her chest. The moment she entered her room, she slammed the door shut and leaned against it, clutching her trembling hands.

"No... no, this can't be right... no..." she whispered, her voice breaking as tears welled in her eyes. She pressed her palms to her ears as though trying to block the sound of Yashodha's words echoing in her mind.

"This isn't possible," she muttered, shaking her head violently. "No... no... they can't... they can't..."

The next second, a strangled scream tore out of her throat. She covered her mouth instantly, afraid someone might hear.

Forcing herself to breathe, she wiped her tears and whispered shakily, "I can't... I can't let this happen."

Without wasting another second, she rushed out of the room, her feet carrying her straight down the corridor until she reached Reyansh's door. Her knuckles trembled as she knocked softly at first, then harder, unable to wait.

Reyansh sat at his desk, his Bluetooth in ear, laptop open, his eyes fixed on the screen as he discussed numbers with his team. The knock came, but he didn't bother glancing up.

"Come later, Jinal. I'm busy," he muttered, fingers still typing.

Jinal stepped inside, her chest tightening. Her voice trembled, "Reyansh... I have something to talk."

He didn't lift his eyes. "I said I'm busy. Later, Jinal."

Her heart sank, but she pressed forward. "Reyansh, it's urgent."

"Jinal..." his tone sharpened now, irritation creeping in, "I said I'm busy!"

Something inside her snapped. Her trembling hands curled into fists as she strode to his table, eyes blazing with a mix of fear and desperation. Before Reyansh could blink, she grabbed the laptop from his desk and hurled it to the floor.

The loud crash echoed through the room, making Reyansh jerk to his feet in shock.

"What the—Jinal?!" he barked, his eyes wide, stunned at her outburst.

She stood there, breathing heavily, tears brimming in her eyes but rage keeping them from falling. Her voice cracked as she screamed, "I SAID I have to talk, Reyansh!"

For a long moment, silence hung between them—the broken laptop at their feet, the echo of her scream still in the air, and Reyansh staring at her as though she were someone entirely different.

Reyansh's brows furrowed, still caught between anger at his meeting being ruined and confusion at her trembling form.

"Jinal, I was attending an important meeting, and you—"

"—If I said I have to talk," she cut him off sharply, her voice breaking, "then you should pay attention! Not everything can wait for your business, Reyansh!"

For the first time, her eyes met his without fear. They were bloodshot, brimming with unshed tears, but blazing with anger.

He exhaled slowly, dragging a hand through his hair, jaw ticking. "Fine. Then say it and leave from here."

Her throat tightened. She took a deep breath, clutched the end of her dupatta so tightly her knuckles turned white, and blurted in one go—

"Marriage proposal came... and everyone is happy... and it's Oberois."

The words spilled like poison she couldn't hold anymore.

A brief, heavy silence fell. Reyansh's eyes darkened, his body going rigid, as though the very name struck a nerve. The air between them shifted—tense, suffocating.

Jinal's chest heaved, her hands clutching the edge of the table to steady herself.

Her voice cracked, trembling as she whispered, "Reyansh... how could I..."

But before she could finish, his cold voice cut like a blade.

"What should I say, Jinal? Go and get married? Why are you sharing all this shit with me? It's your problem, not mine."

Her heart stopped. She stared at him as if the floor beneath her had vanished.

Her lips parted, voice no louder than a breath, "So... it doesn't... matter to you, Reyansh?"

Reyansh turned his gaze away, jaw tight. His tone was flat, merciless.

"Why would it matter to me, Jinal? It's your life. Why will it matter to me? And Oberois are very good—you should be happy."

The words pierced deeper than any blade. Her lips trembled violently.

"So... so it really doesn't... matter to you?"

He didn't even blink. "No. It's not. You're free to do anything. You don't need my permission."

Her knees weakened. Her entire body shook. Then suddenly—

"It matters, dammit!" Jinal screamed, her voice echoing off the walls. Tears streamed freely down her cheeks as her chest rose and fell in ragged sobs.

Her hands balled into fists, pounding once against her chest. "It matters! It matters because... because... because

Her dupatta slipped from her shoulder, fluttering to the floor, revealing the black-beaded chain resting against her collarbone.

Reyansh froze. His entire world tilted, his breath stuck in his throat.

Tears streamed down Jinal's face, but she didn't notice what had been exposed. Her lips trembled as she whispered, "It matters... it's because..."

But she couldn't finish.

In the next instant, Reyansh's self-control snapped. He stormed forward, grabbed her shoulders so tightly that she gasped, and shoved her back against the wall, caging her between his body and the cold plaster.

His eyes burned into hers, wild, furious, betrayed. His voice was raw, almost a growl.

"Don't tell me..." he hissed, his hand trembling as he jabbed a finger toward the chain around her neck.

"Don't tell me this... belongs.....!"

Jinal's heart slammed against her ribs, her breath shaky, her eyes wide. She tried to look away, but Reyansh grabbed her chin, forcing her gaze back to his.

"Answer me!" His voice cracked, desperate, agonized. "Tell me this is not what I think it is! Tell me you didn't—"

He choked mid-sentence, his throat tight, as if the words themselves were poison.

Her tears fell faster, staining her cheeks. She clutched the edge of his shirt with trembling fingers, whispering brokenly, "Reyansh... I—"

"Pati Parmeshwar ji..."

No response. Not even a turn.

She swallowed, trying again.

"Pati ji... suniye na... hum ja rahe hain..."

That's when he turned.

Her breath caught in her throat. His eyes — red, furious, cold.

"FUCKING STOP IT!" he roared. "How many times should I tell you— I am NOT your husband and you are NOT my wife! Can't you understand even once?"

Devyani flinched, her body trembling under his cold voice.

____________________________

How's the chapter?

Any complaints? Anything you want to share that you didn't like? You can comment here so I can read and work on it. Don't worry if your feedback is genuine, I'll read it and take it seriously.

But if your comment is something like "the story is too slow" or "the story is too childish," sorry this is my writing style, and I don't want to change it. Other than that, feel free to share anything, and I'm here to work on myself and this story so that you guys won't feel bored.

Bye bye

Love you all