Author pov....

Rani arrived in Delhi with Divya, and early the next morning, the two of them reached Rahul’s house.

The city was just beginning to wake up, wrapped in the softness of the morning light. Rahul opened the door, still sleepy, but the moment he saw them standing there, his eyes widened in complete shock.

“Mummy? Didi? What are you both doing here?” he asked, stunned.

Rani smiled warmly and immediately pulled him into a tight embrace. Her eyes softened with affection as she held her son close.

“I was missing you,” she said gently. “You never come home anymore, so I had to come myself. You don’t miss me at all, do you?”

Divya stood nearby, quietly watching the emotional reunion between mother and son. A small smile appeared on her face before she teased them.

“Waah, Mummy. You’ve never loved me this much,” she said dramatically.

Rahul laughed at her playful taunt, while Rani turned toward Divya with mock annoyance.

“You stay with me all the time,” Rani replied. “I shower you with love every single day.”

She cupped Rahul’s face in her hands, studying him carefully like only a mother could. Her expression immediately changed into concern.

“You’ve become so thin,” she said softly. “Don’t you eat properly?”

Rahul sighed with a faint smile. “I do eat, Mummy. You always say the same thing whenever you see me.”

“You don’t understand,” Rani whispered, her voice carrying the weight of a mother’s endless worry. “I’m always concerned about you.”

Divya crossed her arms dramatically and interrupted.“What about me? You should worry about me too. I’m pregnant and still carrying this heavy bag.”

Rahul quickly stepped forward, took the bag from her hands, and shook his head.“Then why did you come if you’re pregnant? And how did Vaibhav jiju even allow you to travel?”

Divya rolled her eyes instantly.“As if I need permission from your jiju to go anywhere,” she replied proudly. “I wanted to come with Mummy, so I came.”

Rahul smiled helplessly at her stubbornness and stepped aside.

“Come inside,” he said warmly. “Sit down, Mummy. You both must be tired.”

But Rani shook her head.“No, I’m not tired,” she said. “You both sit. I’ll freshen up first, and then I’ll cook something delicious for everyone.”

Her eyes wandered around the house before she asked, “Where is Bhavya?”

Rahul closed the door behind them and answered, “She hasn’t returned from duty yet, Mummy.”

Rani frowned slightly, concern instantly appearing on her face.

“She works night duty?” she asked. “Doesn’t she feel scared? Delhi is such a dangerous city.”

Divya smiled and gently shook her head.“Mummy, she’s an IPS officer,” Divya said confidently. “Nothing will happen to her. You worry too much.”

Rani still looked uneasy, her motherly concern refusing to fade.“Even then,” she said softly, “she’s still a young girl living in Delhi with Rahul. Of course I’ll worry about her. One day, I should speak to Bhavya’s parents. Do you have their phone number, Rahul?”

Rahul shook his head lightly. “No, I don’t.”

Divya let out a small laugh and sat down comfortably.“Mummy, her father is a senior police officer himself,” she said. “He holds a very high position. Why would they be scared for their daughter? You worry too much about everything.”

Rahul smiled faintly, trying to change the topic before his mother’s concern grew even deeper.“Leave all this for now,” he said gently. “You both go freshen up. I’ll make something to eat.”

Rani immediately protested, her instincts as a mother taking over.

“No, I’ll cook,” she said firmly. “I’ve just come here, so now you should rest for a while.”

Rahul looked at her stubborn expression and knew there was no point arguing. He shook his head with a helpless smile.

“Okay,” he said quietly, giving in to her affection.

After freshening up, Rani walked into the kitchen and began looking through the shelves, quietly checking what ingredients were available.

The house felt peaceful, filled with the soft silence of the morning. Divya and Rahul were still getting ready in their rooms.

Just then, the front door opened.

Bhavya stepped inside, looking exhausted after her night duty. Her shoulders were slightly slumped, and tiredness was visible on her face. As she entered, Rani turned toward the sound and instantly smiled.

“Bhavya beta,” Rani said warmly.

Bhavya looked up and froze for a moment, clearly surprised to see her there.

“Aunty? When did you come?” she asked, shock flickering across her face.

“I arrived just a little while ago,” Rani replied gently. “How are you?”

Bhavya remained calm, her expression unreadable. She gave a small nod.“I’m fine, Aunty.”

Rani observed her carefully, noticing the exhaustion hidden behind her composed face.“You look very tired,” Rani said softly. “Go freshen up first. I’ll prepare breakfast meanwhile, and you should eat something too.”

Bhavya nodded quietly.“Okay.”

Without saying much more, she walked toward her room. Rani watched her leave, a faint smile lingering on her face, her eyes filled with silent affection and concern.

Rahul and Divya walked out together, talking casually as they made their way to the dining table.

Rani noticed them sitting down and immediately came out of the kitchen, carrying a fresh plate of dhokla.

The soft aroma spread across the room as she carefully placed it on the table.

Rahul and Divya both looked at the dish. Divya instantly made a face.

“What?” Rani asked, raising an eyebrow.

“You made dhokla?” Divya said dramatically. “I thought you’d cook something nice like aloo paratha. What is this sweet and soft thing?”

Rahul stayed quiet, simply picking up a piece and beginning to eat without complaint.

Rani pointed toward him with a proud smile.“Look, your brother is eating it. You should eat too.”

Then her expression softened as she added, “I made it especially for Bhavya. She’s Gujarati, isn’t she? She’ll like it.”

Divya looked at her knowingly and smirked.“Oh, so this is a special treatment for her?” she teased.

Even while complaining, she reached for a piece herself and began eating, unable to resist the warmth of homemade food.

Bhavya walked into the dining area just then, her hair still slightly damp after freshening up. The tiredness from her night shift was still visible in her eyes, but she tried to appear composed.

The moment Rani saw her, her face brightened.“Bhavya beta, come sit,” she said warmly. “Look, I made dhokla especially for you.”

Bhavya’s eyes shifted toward the plate on the table. For a brief second, surprise flickered across her face before she quietly pulled out a chair and sat down. She picked up a small piece and tasted it.

Rani watched her closely, almost like a mother waiting for approval from her child.“How is it?” she asked, unable to hide the curiosity in her voice.

Bhavya swallowed slowly and nodded.“It’s really good, Aunty.”

The answer instantly brought a smile to Rani’s face. Her eyes softened with satisfaction, happy that Bhavya liked something she had made with care.

Divya leaned back in her chair and smiled teasingly.“She’s right, Mummy,” Divya admitted. “It actually turned out good.”

Rahul remained quiet, eating peacefully while listening to the conversation around him. He watched everyone silently, enjoying the rare warmth of a full house and familiar voices.

For a few moments, everything felt calm.

Then suddenly, Rani spoke again.

“I should take some dhokla for Rajni ji later,” she said thoughtfully. “I’ll go meet her too.”

Rahul’s expression changed slightly. He lowered his eyes before answering.“She’s not home, Mummy.”

Rani looked confused.“Where did she go?”

Rahul placed his hand down slowly and replied in a quieter voice.

“Rajvardhan Thakur had a cardiac arrest two days ago. Everyone is there… Deepak, Rajni Aunty, Deeksha.”

The words instantly changed the atmosphere.

Rani froze.

Divya’s face lost its smile.“What?” she asked, shocked. “Is he okay now?”

Rahul nodded gently.“He’s stable now.”

A heavy silence spread across the table.

After a moment, Divya looked up again.“Where is Ishani?” she asked softly. “I haven’t talked to her in so long. Is she okay?”

The moment Ishani’s name came up, Rahul’s expression stiffened. He glanced briefly toward Rani, discomfort flashing across his face, before speaking in a low voice.

“She’s at home.”

Bhavya noticed the hesitation in his tone.

Her eyes lingered on him for a second, silently observing the way his expression changed.

Divya immediately stood up from her chair.“I’m going to meet her,” she said quickly.

Rani tried to stop her.

“At least eat properly first—”

But Divya was already walking away, too worried to stay.

Rani watched her leave and sighed softly.“She cares too much,” she said with a faint smile. “Ishani is her Best friend… and her sister-in-law too.”

Her gaze shifted toward Bhavya, expecting some reaction.

But Bhavya remained quiet.

She simply sat there, calm and unreadable, hiding every thought behind a still expression.

The hospital corridors felt calmer today. After two difficult days filled with fear and uncertainty, Rajvardhan Thakur was finally being discharged.

The tension that had gripped everyone’s hearts since his sudden health scare was beginning to fade.

Deeksha couldn’t hide her happiness. Seeing her grandfather standing on his feet again brought relief she had been desperately waiting for. Her eyes followed him carefully, still protective, still afraid something might happen.

Meanwhile, Deepak completed the hospital paperwork and stepped outside. After settling the bills and formalities, he walked toward the car and opened the doors for everyone.

Rajvardhan slowly sat in the back seat. Deeksha immediately sat beside him, gently holding his arm as if she still didn’t trust his health completely.

A few seconds later, Rajni settled into the front seat.

Deepak took his place behind the steering wheel and started the car.

As the vehicle moved through the busy streets, silence filled the air for a moment.

Deeksha looked toward her grandfather, her voice soft with concern.“Nanu… are you feeling okay now?” she asked quietly. “You didn’t feel dizzy while walking, right?”

Rajvardhan smiled faintly and placed his hand over hers.“I’m absolutely fine, beta,” he said gently. “You’ve been worrying too much.”

“How can I not worry?” Deeksha replied instantly. “You scared all of us.”

Rajvardhan chuckled softly.

“Nothing happened to me. I’m still strong enough to trouble everyone for many more years.”

Deeksha smiled faintly, finally relaxing a little.

Then Rajvardhan’s expression changed into something thoughtful.

“Now that I’m better,” he said slowly, “we should focus on important things.”

Deeksha looked at him.“What important things?”

“Your wedding,” he replied calmly. “We need to fix dates now. Engagement, marriage… there’s so much to prepare.”

The words made Deeksha fall silent.

Her fingers tightened slightly in her lap. Without realizing, her eyes lifted toward the front mirror.

There was something unspoken in his gaze. He wanted to ask her if she was truly happy with this marriage. He wanted to know if she had said yes because she wanted this… or because everyone expected it from her.

He wanted to marry her. But only if her heart chose him freely.

Rajni noticed the silence growing heavy and quickly smiled.“Vardhan ji, why are you taking tension?” she said warmly. “Everything will happen perfectly.”

Rajvardhan looked toward her.

“There’s still so much work left,” he said.

Rajni nodded confidently.

“And we’ll handle everything together,” she replied. “You just focus on your health now.”

She smiled proudly before adding, “My son is an IPS officer. Arrangements will happen quickly. You don’t need to stress about anything.”

Rajvardhan leaned back against the seat, comforted by her words.“That’s true,” he said softly. “Now I feel peaceful.”

The car continued moving ahead, carrying not just a recovering family… but also unspoken emotions, hidden questions, and the quiet beginning of a future waiting to unfold.

After some time, they finally reached home. The car came to a slow stop outside the house, and before anyone could say anything, Deepak quickly stepped out.

Without wasting a second, he walked to the back door and opened it carefully. His expression was filled with quiet concern as he gently helped Rajvardhan Thakur step out of the car.

“Slowly,” Deepak said softly. “Don’t rush.”

He firmly held one of Rajvardhan’s hands, supporting him with care.

At the same moment, Deeksha stepped out from the other side and immediately came closer. Without hesitation, she held Rajvardhan’s other hand.

Together, they carefully supported him, walking slowly toward the house.

Rajvardhan moved gently between them, leaning slightly on their support. There was a quiet comfort in the way they stayed close, making sure he didn’t struggle even for a moment.

Behind them, Rajni followed silently, watching the scene with soft eyes. A faint smile appeared on her face as she saw the care and affection surrounding Rajvardhan.

They all entered the house together, and the living room, which a moment ago had been filled with casual conversation, suddenly fell quiet.

Divya and Ishani stopped mid-talk the moment they saw everyone coming inside.

Ishani immediately stood up, her face filled with concern. She walked quickly toward Rajvardhan Thakur.

“Dadu… are you okay now?” she asked softly, her voice carrying genuine worry.

Rajvardhan gave her a gentle smile.

“Yes, beta. I’m fine now. Don’t worry.”

Ishani’s shoulders relaxed slightly, as if a heavy burden had lifted from her chest.

On the other side, Deeksha and Deepak carefully guided Rajvardhan to the sofa and helped him sit down comfortably.

Once he was settled, Rajvardhan turned his attention to Divya.

“Oh Divya beta,” he said warmly. “When did you come from Banaras?”

Divya smiled politely. “I came today, Dadu.”

“Good,” Rajvardhan nodded. “Then stay here for a few days. Deeksha’s wedding with Deepak is coming soon. After everything is done, then you can

go.”

The moment those words left his mouth, the atmosphere shifted.

Divya and Ishani both froze.

Their eyes slowly moved toward Deepak and Deeksha. Shock was clear on their faces.

Deeksha lowered her gaze, suddenly feeling the weight of everyone’s attention on her. Trying to break the silence, she looked at Ishani.

“Didi… where is Mannat?” she asked gently.

Ishani replied, “She’s in the park with Ishaan and the other kids.”

Deepak’s expression changed instantly.

“Didi, she’s still weak,” he said quickly, concern rising in his voice. “Why did you let her go out like that?”

Ishani looked at him calmly.

“She isn’t running around,” she explained. “She’s just sitting there and watching them play.”

Only then did Deepak’s tense expression soften, and he quietly nodded, finally reassured.

Rajni looked at Deeksha with concern in her eyes and said softly, “Deeksha beta, you should get some rest. You have been worried and stressed for the past two days.”

Deeksha forced a small smile and replied, “I’m fine, Aunty.”

Rajvardhan gently supported Rajni’s words. “Rajni is right, Deeksha. You should rest for a while. Don’t worry about me, I’m perfectly fine.”

Deeksha nodded quietly. “Okay.”

Without saying anything more, she slowly walked toward her room. Deepak’s eyes followed her until she disappeared from sight.

He wanted to talk to her, to ask what was running through her mind, but he stopped himself. She looked exhausted, both physically and emotionally. He decided it would be better to speak to her later.

Turning to Rajvardhan, Deepak said respectfully, “Okay sir, I’ll leave for home now.”

Rajvardhan nodded. “Okay, beta.”

Deepak left, accompanying Rajni as they headed out together.

Ishani then looked at Rajvardhan and said gently, “Come, Dadu. You should also go to your room and take some rest.”

Rajvardhan smiled faintly. “Yes, Ishani.”

Ishani held his arm carefully, while Divya stepped forward and supported him from the other side. Together, the two girls slowly walked him to his room and made sure he was comfortable.

As they stepped outside the room, Divya turned to Ishani and asked in a low voice, “Will you ask Deeksha why she said yes?”

Ishani sighed softly before replying, “Yes, I will… but not right now. She needs some space.”

Divya nodded in understanding.

After a moment, she said, “I want to meet Ishaan.”

A small smile appeared on Ishani’s face. “Then let’s go to the park.”

“Let’s go,” Divya replied.

The lift moved downward in silence, carrying Ishani and Divya toward the ground floor.

The soft hum of the elevator filled the quiet space between them. As the doors slid open, they found Rahul standing outside, waiting patiently.

He looked up and noticed them.

Divya smiled instantly. “Going to the station, Rahul?”

Rahul gave a small nod. “Yes, Didi.”

“Then why are you standing outside? Come in,” she said casually.

Rahul stepped inside the lift. Ishani glanced at him and smiled softly, but Rahul kept his gaze forward, avoiding eye contact. A strange silence settled between them.

Divya, noticing the awkwardness, smirked slightly. “Rahul, have you even properly met Ishani? She lives in your building, yet you act like

strangers.”

Rahul stayed quiet.

Divya continued teasing, “At least take some time and show her around Delhi someday. You’re an IPS officer  I’m sure half the city knows you.”

Rahul let out a faint chuckle. “Didi, I’m a police officer, not a celebrity. Delhi doesn’t stop for me.”

Ishani smiled at his reply. “He’s right, Divya. And honestly, I barely get time myself. Besides… Rahul has already helped me a lot. I’m really thankful to him.”

Divya immediately turned toward her with curiosity sparkling in her eyes. “Oh? Really? He never does anything for me. What kind of special help did he give you?”

Rahul sighed helplessly. “Didi…”

Divya laughed mischievously. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop. Look at your face you get embarrassed so easily.”

Ishani watched the two of them and smiled warmly. Their bond felt effortless, full of comfort and familiarity.

Watching them argue playfully, Ishani smiled and shook her head. “When will you two ever stop fighting? You’ve been arguing like this since childhood. I’ve seen you both bicker over the smallest things for years, yet nothing has changed.”

Divya laughed. “Of course we did. But I was always the brave one.”

Rahul raised an eyebrow. “Brave? You were the one creating drama every day.”

Divya gasped dramatically. “Excuse me? You were the crybaby. One small thing happened and you’d start crying.”

Rahul shook his head, a faint smile appearing on his face. “I’m staying quiet only because you’re pregnant. Otherwise, I would’ve reminded you of the truth.”

Divya crossed her arms. “Oh really? And what truth is that?”

Before their teasing could turn into another playful argument, Ishani laughed softly and stepped in.

“Alright, enough now. Don’t start fighting again.”

Rahul’s eyes drifted toward Ishani just as she laughed, and in that instant, everything around him seemed to fade into silence. The sound of her laughter was soft and unguarded, filling the small lift with warmth.

He watched her quietly, unable to look away.

There was something about her smile that reached places inside him he never let anyone see. The way her eyes brightened when she laughed, the way her face softened so naturally  it felt like sunlight breaking through a long, exhausting day.

To Rahul, Ishani had become that kind of presence without him even realizing it.

Like the sun after endless rain.

Like warmth in a life that had grown too used to duty and silence.

He kept looking at her with gentle admiration, his expression softer than usual, almost vulnerable.

In that moment, he wasn’t an officer carrying responsibility on his shoulders. He was simply a man finding peace in someone’s happiness.

Divya noticed everything. She saw the way Rahul’s eyes stayed on Ishani a second longer than necessary, the way his face relaxed whenever Ishani smiled.

A quiet smile appeared on Divya’s lips. Seeing her brother happy like this made her heart feel strangely full.

Just then, the lift doors slid open.

Ishani’s laughter slowly faded as she stepped forward. She looked back at both of them, still carrying a faint smile on her lips.

“You two seriously never change,” she said, shaking her head fondly. “Even now, you fight like little children.”

The three of them stepped out of the lift together. The evening air felt calm as they walked toward the building entrance.

Rahul adjusted his keys in his hand and looked at Divya. “Okay, bye, Didi.”

“Bye, Rahul,” Divya replied warmly.

Ishani smiled softly. “Bye, Rahul.”

Rahul’s steps slowed for a second. He turned back and looked at Ishani.

Their eyes met briefly, and a faint smile appeared on his face quiet, gentle, and impossible to ignore.

“Bye,” he said softly.

Then Rahul walked toward his car, carrying an unspoken warmth in his heart.

He sat inside, but before driving away, his eyes drifted once more toward Ishani and Divya walking together toward the park.

The two girls continued down the pathway lined with trees, the cool breeze brushing softly against them.

After a moment of silence, Divya spoke thoughtfully. “I think I should start looking for a girl for Rahul now.”

Ishani looked at her in surprise. “But doesn’t he already have a girlfriend? What’s her name… Bhavya?”

Divya immediately stopped walking and turned toward her with wide eyes. “Who told you Bhavya is his girlfriend?”

Ishani blinked. “Rahul and Bhavya live together, don’t they? I thought they were in a relationship.”

Divya shook her head with a small laugh. “No, nothing like that. They’re just very close friends. They met in university, became best friends, prepared for UPSC together, and both became IPS officers.”

“Oh…” Ishani said quietly. “I really thought she was his girlfriend.”

Divya smiled faintly. “Bhavya is a good person, but Rahul doesn’t feel that way about her.”

Ishani nodded slowly. “Then you’ll have to find a really good girl for him.”

Divya looked ahead, her smile turning mysterious. “Yes, I’ll have to find someone… but I think she’s already somewhere close to me.”

Ishani looked at Divya curiously, her brows slightly furrowed. “Who is the girl? Tell me too.”

Divya smiled to herself, a playful mystery shining in her eyes. “Not yet,” she said softly. “But you’ll find out very soon.”

Ishani looked at her with confusion mixed with curiosity. “Oh…”

The two of them finally reached the park. The evening was peaceful, filled with the distant laughter of children playing nearby.

On one of the benches, Mannat sat quietly beside Ishaan. The little boy watched the other children running around, but he stayed where he was, close to her.

Ishani walked toward them and gently asked, “Ishaan, why aren’t you playing with the other kids?”

Ishaan looked up at her and replied innocently, “Because Mannat Didi isn’t playing… so I’m not playing either, Mumma.”

A soft smile spread across Ishani’s face. Her heart warmed seeing the quiet understanding in her son.

Even at such a young age, he cared deeply for the people around him.

She gently touched his hair and said, “Okay… but look who’s here. Divya Mami came to meet you.”

Ishaan slowly turned his head toward Divya. For a moment, he simply looked at her, taking his time.

Divya stayed still, giving him the space he needed. She knew Ishaan processed emotions and familiarity differently, and she never rushed him.

A few quiet seconds passed. Then recognition slowly appeared in Ishaan’s eyes.

A small smile formed on his face as he

looked at Divya. Seeing him smile, Mannat smiled too, her eyes soft with affection.

Ishaan folded his little hands politely and said, “Namaste, Mami.”

Divya’s face softened instantly. She smiled warmly and replied, “Namaste, baccha.”

Mannat quietly greeted her as well.

Divya turned toward her with the same gentle smile. “Namaste, Mannat. How are you feeling now? Are you okay?”

Mannat nodded lightly. “Yes, I’m fine.”

Divya looked at both the children with affection in her eyes. “They’re such sweet children… so understanding and well-behaved.”

Ishani smiled proudly. “Yes, they really are.”

After a moment, Mannat looked up at Ishani and asked softly, “Has my mumma come?”

Ishani nodded gently. “Yes, beta. Your mumma is here.”

Mannat immediately stood up, excitement lighting up her face. “Okay, I’m going to Mumma.”

Ishani smiled. “Wait mannat, I’m coming too. Let’s go together.”

Mannat and Ishaan began walking ahead, their small steps full of eagerness.

Ishani and Divya followed behind them at a slower pace, watching the children move forward.

...............................................................................................

At the house, Rajni had already dialed the pandit ji’s number, her voice carrying urgency as she spoke about fixing the marriage date.

Deepak heard her from behind and quickly stepped forward. “Ma, please… don’t rush this.”

Rajni turned to him, a little confused. “Why, Deepak? Deeksha herself agreed for the marriage. Then what’s the problem now?”

Deepak shook his head, his tone calm but firm. “I know what she said, Ma… but I still want to talk to her properly. I want to understand what she really feels. After that, whatever decision comes, we’ll accept it together. But please don’t call the pandit ji right now.”

Rajni looked at her son for a long moment. She could see the sincerity in his eyes and the quiet concern hidden behind his words.

Slowly, she lowered her phone, her shoulders softening as she gave in to his request.

.....................................................................................................

Night had fallen, and slowly the house grew quiet as everyone went to sleep.

But Deeksha remained awake.

She lay on her bed, lost in thoughts that refused to settle.

The conversation about marriage kept replaying in her mind, making it harder for her to find peace.

Suddenly, her phone buzzed.

She glanced at the screen — Deepak.

For a moment, she just stared at the name before answering the call.

“Are you still awake?” Deepak’s voice came softly from the other side.

Deeksha exhaled lightly. “Yes… I’m awake.”

There was a brief pause before he spoke again. “Come to the terrace. I need to talk to you.”

She frowned slightly. “Why?”

“Just come,” he said gently. “There’s something I want to say.”

After a small hesitation, Deeksha agreed. “Okay.”

The call ended.

A few minutes later, she made her way upstairs.

The terrace was quiet, the night sky open and still above them.

A soft breeze moved through the silence. Deepak was already there, waiting.

Deeksha walked toward him slowly and stopped a few steps away. Looking at him, she asked softly, “Why did you call me here?”

Deepak stood there in silence for a moment, his eyes fixed on her as if he was trying to hold back everything he had been carrying inside.

When he finally spoke, his voice was deeper, heavier full of feeling he could no longer hide.“Deeksha… why did you really say yes to this marriage?”

She looked at him calmly. “For Nanu,” she said softly. “For Mannat. That’s the only reason.”

Deepak shook his head slightly, taking a step closer. His gaze didn’t waver.

“And you?” he asked, his voice tightening with emotion. “Where do you stand in all of this? What do you want for yourself?”

Deeksha’s silence was her answer.

Deepak’s breath slowed, but his words came out more intense, more honest.

“I don’t want a marriage that only exists on paper,” he said firmly. “I don’t want to come home to a wife who is physically present but emotionally gone from me.”

He paused, his eyes softening but burning with truth.“If I’m getting married, Deeksha… I want you. Not just as a responsibility. I want you as my wife… the woman I can love without holding back, the one I can build a life with. I want to be a husband who stands beside you in everything, and I want you to be my home.”

His voice lowered, almost breaking with emotion.“I don’t want distance between us… not after becoming husband and wife.”

The air in the room felt thick, suffocatingly intimate.

"Let’s stop pretending, Deeksha," he rasped, his eyes dark with a hunger he wasn't trying to hide anymore. "That day, when I saw you... when I saw every inch of you standing there naked... something snapped. I haven't been the same since. My mind has been a mess, replaying that image over and over until I’m losing sleep."

He laughed bitterly, a sharp, hollow sound. "And now you are saying that after the wedding, we’ll just be roommates? That I’m not allowed to touch you? Do you have any idea what you're asking? I’ve seen what belongs to me, and now I’m supposed to just forget it? I’m a man, Deeksha, not a stone statue."

His gaze swept over her, intense and unyielding. "I can't live under the same roof as you, wanting you like this, and act like nothing is wrong. I won’t do it. It’s better we end this right now before it turns into a disaster."

Deeksha’s breath hitched, her heartbeat drumming a frantic rhythm in her ears. She couldn't move, pinned by the sheer weight of his honesty.

"I’ll talk to Mannat and Sir," Deepak

said, his voice turning cold and decisive. "I’ll tell them I’ve changed my mind. I’ll take the blame for calling off the wedding so you don't have to carry that burden. You’re free, Deeksha.

The air between them was electric, thick with a tension that was becoming unbearable.

Looking at her silent, trembling form, a primal urge surged within Deepak a desperate, aching need to pull her close and crush his lips against hers.

He wanted to drown out the logic, the arguments, and the distance between them with a single kiss.

But he forced himself to pull back. His knuckles whitened as he clenched his fists, fighting the war inside his head.

He knew if he stayed another second, he would lose his restraint. He would cross a line he couldn't uncross.

Without another word, he turned to leave, his footsteps heavy with the weight of his own frustration.

He was halfway to the door when he felt it a soft, frantic warmth circling his wrist.

Deeksha had caught his hand.

"Okay," she whispered, her voice cracking the silence. "I’ll do it. I’ll be your wife, Deepak. A real wife."

Deepak froze, his back still turned to her.

"I’ll try to love you," she continued, her words rushing out now, fueled by a sudden, desperate resolve. "I’ll fulfill every duty, every right that comes with being your wife. You’re right... I have no right to punish you or give you a life full of pain. You deserve a partner who actually loves you, who cherishes you. You deserve that happiness, Deepak."

Deepak turned slowly, his face etched

with genuine shock. He had expected a goodbye, a rejection, or perhaps a sigh of relief that it was over. He never expected a surrender.

"Deeksha," he said, his voice cautious, searching her eyes. "You don't have to do this. Don't say these things just because you feel pressured or guilty. I don't want a wife who is acting out of obligation."

At his words, the dam finally broke. Tears began to stream down Deeksha’s face, hot and unstoppable.

"No, Deepak... how can I be that selfish?" Deeksha’s voice trembled, raw with years of suppressed pain. "Nanu raised me when my own father threw my mother and me out on the streets. He loved me like his own daughter, giving me a life I didn't even feel I deserved. How can I look at his face, knowing how much he worries for me, and say no? When he had that cardiac arrest... I was terrified. If something had happened to him, I would never have forgiven myself."

She looked up at him, her eyes swimming in tears, the guilt finally pouring out. "I was ready to marry you just to keep him happy. But I was being so selfish, Deepak. I used you. First, I thought of my daughter, then I thought of myself deciding on my own that we would have no real relationship. You were right to call me out. You deserve someone who actually loves you, someone who stands by you. I’ve been so wrong... I’m so sorry. I’ve put you and Mannat through so much, haven't I?"

Seeing her crumble was more than Deepak could bear. The anger he felt moments ago vanished, replaced by an overwhelming ache in his chest. He reached out, his fingers trembling slightly as he brushed the hot tears from her cheeks.

"Don't say that," he murmured, his voice softening into something incredibly tender. "Even when you hurt me, Deeksha, it feels like a privilege just to be near you. You can do anything to me I’d endure it all with a smile. Don't call yourself names. I know the life you’ve had to live since you were a child. I respect you for it. You are the strongest woman I know. Do you understand? You are not selfish."

Hearing those words the validation she had craved for a lifetime Deeksha finally broke. She lunged forward, throwing her arms around him and burying her face in his chest.

"No, I’m not strong, Deepak!" she sobbed into his shirt, her small frame shaking. "I’m not strong at all. I can't do this anymore... I feel so incredibly alone."

Deepak wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a crushing, protective embrace as if he could shield her from the entire world. He rested his chin on her head, breathing in the scent of her hair.

"I’m right here," he promised, his voice as a firm anchor in her storm. "I’ve got you, Deeksha. Don't ever say you're alone. You are strong, you are beautiful, and you are so, so loved. I'm not going anywhere."

As Deeksha listened to his words, a profound sense of peace washed over her a feeling she hadn't known in years.

For so long, she had built walls around her heart, perfecting the art of keeping her emotions locked away in a dark corner where no one could find them.

She had learned to survive by being silent, but today, the dam had burst.

She had laid her soul bare to Deepak, and instead of the judgment or coldness she feared, she found a sanctuary.

There was an incredible relief in finally being seen. The fact that he didn't pull away or criticize her made her heart swell she clung to him even tighter, her fingers bunching the fabric of his shirt.

In that moment, she felt that if she let go, she would shatter into a million pieces that he was the only thing keeping her from falling into an endless abyss.

Deepak didn't move. He held her with a steady, unwavering strength, letting her weep until the weight on her chest began to lift.

He remained her anchor, his voice a low, soothing hum in her ear.

Between her sobs, he whispered words of encouragement, gently praising her resilience and reminding her of her worth.

He stayed there, holding her together, until her tears finally ran dry and the silence between them felt, for the first time, like home.

Gradually, the storm inside Deeksha began to subside. Her sobs quieted into shallow breaths, yet she didn’t pull away.

She remained anchored in his arms, seeking the lingering warmth of his embrace. Deepak didn't rush her; he simply held her in the silence, his presence a silent vow of protection.

"We should go... we should head home," Deeksha whispered against his chest, her voice small and weary.

"Hmm," Deepak murmured, though his arms didn't loosen immediately.

When she finally pulled back, she looked up, her eyes meeting his. The air between them shifted instantly.

The grief and the tears had cleared away, leaving behind a raw, magnetic pull that neither of them could ignore.

The heavy atmosphere of the room was no longer filled with sorrow, but with a sudden, suffocating desire.

"Okay... goodnight," she said softly, turning to leave.

But Deepak didn't let go. His fingers remained locked around her wrist, a silent command for her to stay.

Deeksha looked down at his hand, then back up into his dark, searching eyes.

She could see the war raging inside him. He wanted her the hunger was written in every line of his face but he was paralyzed by the fear of crossing a line.

He didn't want to break the fragile trust they had just built, yet the urge to pull her back into his space was almost too much to bear.

They stood there on the precipice of something life-changing, caught between the safety of the past and the heat of a future neither was ready to name.

"Let go of my hand, Deepak," Deeksha whispered, her voice so faint it was barely a breath.

Even as the words left her lips, she felt a wave of confusion crash over her.

Her mind told him to let go, but her heart aching and lonely wanted the exact opposite.

She didn't know if she was pleading for freedom or silently begging him to tighten his grip. The air between them was thick with unspoken longing, vibrating with a tension that made it hard to breathe.

Deepak’s gaze searched hers, reading the conflict written in her eyes. For a long, agonizing moment, he hesitated.

Then, slowly, almost reluctantly, he uncurled his fingers. The loss of his warmth felt like a physical blow against her skin.

He let go.

Deeksha stood there, frozen. She didn't move toward the door, and she didn't turn away.

She just remained rooted to the spot, her hand still tingling where his touch had been.

Deepak didn't move either he stood like a statue, his eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that felt like a caress.

In the heavy silence of the room, neither of them dared to speak, afraid that even a single word would shatter the fragile, electric bridge still connecting them.

They were two souls standing on the edge of a cliff, waiting for the other to either push them off or pull them into safety.

"Go," Deepak rasped, his voice strained as he fought the final remnants of his resolve.

Deeksha didn't move toward the door. Instead, she looked at him really looked at him and saw the raw hunger he was trying so hard to suppress for her sake.

In that moment, the last of her inhibitions crumbled. She took a step forward, closing the distance until she

could feel the heat radiating off his body, and then she pressed her lips against his.

The contact was like a spark hitting a trail of gasoline.

Deepak’s control snapped instantly. The walls he had built to protect her, and himself, came crashing down.

He let out a low, guttural groan, catching her waist and pulling her flush against him.

His response wasn't gentle it was a fiery, desperate reclamation of everything he had been forced to hold back.

He surged forward, driving her back until her spine hit the cool surface of the wall, never once breaking the contact of their mouths.

The kiss deepened, turning feral and hungry. It wasn't just a kiss anymore it was a collision of two souls who had been starved for each other.

Their tongues clashed in a frantic, rhythmic dance, fueled by a filthy, intoxicating heat that burned through their clothes.

The air in the seemed to evaporate, replaced by the sound of their ragged breathing and the frantic thrum of two hearts beating as one.

They were lost in a blur of sensation, drowning in a desperate, primal need that neither of them wanted to escape.

They broke apart, breathless and trembling, their foreheads resting against each other as their lungs burned for air.

The silence was heavy, broken only by the sound of their jagged breathing.

"Fuck," Deepak hissed, his voice a ragged edge of frustration and desire. "What are you doing to me, Deeksha? I’m losing every ounce of my control. I’m falling apart right in front of you."

He pulled back slightly, his eyes searching hers with a desperate, searching intensity. "You don't even love me... so why? Why did you kiss me like that?"

Deeksha remained silent, her mind a chaotic blur. She didn't have an answer she didn't even understand the impulse that had driven her into his arms. She was lost in the storm of her own making.

"Tell me," Deepak demanded, his voice cracking with a vulnerability he couldn't hide. "What is this game you're playing? Are you doing it again, Deeksha? Is this like ten years ago? Are you going to draw me in just to leave me bleeding again?"

Deeksha looked deep into his eyes and saw it the raw, terror of a man who had been broken once and was

terrified of the history repeating itself.

The fear of her abandonment was etched into every line of his face.

"I’m not going anywhere," she whispered, her voice firm with a sudden, grounding certainty. "I’m not

leaving you, Deepak."

The relief that washed over him was visible, a physical shedding of a decade-old burden. But that relief quickly shifted back into a searing hunger.

Unable to fight the pull any longer, he crashed his lips against hers again, his movements desperate and uninhibited.

She met his fire with her own, losing herself completely in the heat of his embrace.

Deeksha’s fingers trailed to the hem of his t shirt, her touch urgent as she began to pull the fabric upward.

The friction of her skin against his sent a jolt through Deepak, but he suddenly stiffened, catching her wrists to break the kiss.

"Deeksha, wait," he panted, his eyes darting around the open space. "We’re on the terrace."

A small, defiant smile played on Deeksha’s lips. She leaned in, her voice a sultry challenge. "So what?"

"So, it’s a public place," Deepak countered, his voice straining for a sense of propriety he barely felt. "We can’t just... do this out here."

Deeksha let out a soft laugh, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You’re an IPS officer, Deepak. Who’s going to dare say a word to you?"

Deepak gave her a mock-offended look, a playful glint in his eyes. "Oh, I see. You’re just using me for my body, aren't you? Always using me to satisfy your lust and then tossing me aside."

The teasing words hit Deeksha like a bucket of cold water. A wave of heat rushed to her face, her playful confidence vanishing instantly.

"I—" She stammered, looking at him with wide, embarrassed eyes. She let go of his shirt as if it had turned into hot coal. "It’s nothing like that, okay? Don't even say that!"

Flustered and mortified, she turned on her heel and began to march away, her heart still thumping wildly.

Deepak couldn't help it a rich, triumphant laugh broke from his chest. "Hey!" he called out after her, his voice trailing her through the cool night air. "You can use my body as much as you want after the wedding, Deeksha! Every single day if that's what you want!"

Deeksha didn't look back, her pace quickening as she vanished from the terrace, her ears burning with his laughter.

Left alone in the moonlight, Deepak stood there with a wide, genuine smile stretching across his face.

The teasing was just a cover for the pure, unadulterated joy bubbling inside him.

She had agreed. She was finally going to be his. He was going to marry Deeksha, and they would be a family. He, Deeksha, and Mannat together, just as it was always meant to be.

.............................................................................................

Rani was busy doing everything she could for Bhavya planning, arranging, and constantly thinking of ways to keep her happy. Her mind was also focused on something else… she was trying to create moments where Bhavya and Rahul would naturally spend more time together, hoping things would slowly fall into place between them.

Divya was silently watching all of this.

Before she could say anything, her phone rang.

She picked it up and said softly, “Vaibhav, I’m fine. You’ve already called me fifty times today.”

On the other side, Vaibhav’s voice was tense, filled with concern. “Divya, just come home. I won’t be able to relax until you’re back. When you’re in front of me, I feel at peace… otherwise I keep worrying.”

Divya let out a small breath. “I’m not coming back right now. I’ll stay here with Mummy for a while.”

Vaibhav’s worry deepened immediately. “But Divya, you’re pregnant. How will you take care of yourself there? Everyone will be busy with their own work. Who will look after you properly? Did you take your medicine? Did you eat anything?”

Divya opened her mouth to respond but Rani stepped in.

She gently took the phone from Divya’s hand.“Vaibhav beta,” Rani said calmly, “don’t worry. I’m sending Divya back in a day or two. She has eaten, and I’ll give her medicines properly. You don’t need to stress. She and the baby are both fine.”

There was a pause.

“Okay, Maa…” Vaibhav finally replied, though his voice still carried concern.

Rani ended the call and placed the phone aside.

Then she turned to Divya with a  medicine in her hand. “Take this.”

Divya quietly took it and swallowed the medicine without a word.

Rani softened a little. “Now go and rest.”

But Divya shook her head. “I’m not going anywhere. I’ll stay with you. Whenever you go to banaras, I’ll go with you.”

Rani frowned, clearly irritated now. “Divya…”

But Divya didn’t react. Her expression remained calm.

Without arguing further, she simply stood up and walked away toward her room.

Rani watched her go, her silence carrying more weight than words ever could.

...........................................................................................

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