Author pov....

As soon as Deepak shared that Deeksha had agreed to the marriage.

Rajni wasted no time. She immediately called the priest and asked him to come over. The atmosphere in the house shifted instantly, filling with excitement and anticipation.

Rajvardhan looked genuinely happy, knowing that the dates for the engagement and wedding were finally going to be decided.

Everyone gathered together in the living room Rajni, Deepak, Rani, Rahul, Ishani, Deeksha, Mannat, Divya, and Rajvardhan.

The priest sat calmly with both horoscopes spread before him, carefully studying them.

After a few moments of silence, he looked up and announced that there was an auspicious date for the engagement within the next couple of days, and the wedding could take place just two weeks later.

Rajvardhan’s face lit up with happiness.“That’s wonderful news,” he said warmly. “Everything is falling into place.”

Rajni, however, looked slightly concerned.“But Pandit Ji,” she said gently, “isn’t this too soon? How will we manage all the arrangements for both the engagement and the wedding so quickly? Maybe you could look for a later date.”

Before the priest could answer,

Deepak spoke firmly.“No, Maa. This date is perfect.”

Rahul smirked mischievously and leaned back with a grin.“You seem way too eager to get married,” he teased. “Relax. Deeksha isn’t going anywhere.”

The room burst into laughter at his comment.

Deeksha immediately lowered her eyes, her cheeks warming with embarrassment. She felt awkward under everyone’s teasing smiles.

Since everything that had happened between her and Deepak the previous night, she hadn’t even gathered the courage to properly speak to him. She couldn’t bring herself to meet his gaze.

Deepak, on the other hand, kept looking at her quietly. His eyes lingered on her face, searching for even the smallest glance in his direction. But Deeksha avoided him completely, keeping her eyes fixed elsewhere.

Rajni laughed softly and looked at the priest again.“Well then, Pandit Ji,” she said with a smile, “whatever date my son likes will be perfect for us.”

Happiness spread across the room. Smiles grew wider, excitement filled every corner of the house, and sweets were brought out and shared with everyone to celebrate the joyful decision.

Mannat was overflowing with happiness. The thought of finally living with both her mother and father filled her tiny heart with excitement.

She stayed close to Deeksha, sitting beside her with bright, hopeful eyes.

“Mumma,” she asked softly, “after two weeks, we’ll live in Papa’s house

together, right?”

Deeksha was about to answer when Deepak walked over and quietly sat beside her. The sudden closeness made her heartbeat stumble.

“Yes, Mannat,” Deepak replied gently before Deeksha could speak. “After two weeks, you and Mumma will live with Papa in our home.”

Mannat’s face instantly lit up with joy.

“Then Dadi will stay with us too?” she asked excitedly.

Deeksha smiled faintly and nodded.

“Yes.”

But while Mannat continued talking happily, Deeksha could barely focus.

Deepak sitting so close beside her made her heart beat unevenly. She could feel his presence far too clearly the warmth of him, the nearness that made her nervous without reason.

Deepak kept speaking lovingly to Mannat, his voice calm and affectionate.

Unable to handle the restless feeling inside her, Deeksha slowly tried to get up.

Before she could move away, Deepak reached out and held her hand.

“Where are you going?” he asked quietly. “Stay here.”

Deeksha froze. Her eyes instinctively moved around the room. Everyone seemed busy in their own conversations, unaware of the silent moment unfolding between them.

Slowly, she looked back at Deepak.

For a second, she hesitated… then quietly sat down again.

A few moments later, Mannat ran toward Ishani, leaving them alone.

Silence settled between Deepak and Deeksha.

Deeksha glanced at their joined hands and whispered softly, almost nervously,“Leave my hand.”

Deepak looked at her, his fingers still wrapped gently around her hand.

“Why?” he asked softly, a teasing smile touching his lips. “Don’t you like holding my hand?”

Deeksha’s heart began racing uncontrollably. A strange nervousness spread through her, making her restless. She didn’t understand what was happening to her.

She had never felt this way before so aware of someone’s presence, so shaken by something as simple as a touch.

She glanced around anxiously and lowered her voice.

“Everyone is here,” she whispered. “If they see us like this, what will they think?”

Deepak leaned slightly closer, amusement flickering in his eyes.

“Really?” he murmured. “Last night on the terrace, when you kissed me, you didn’t seem worried about what people would think if someone saw us.”

The moment his words reached her, Deeksha’s face burned with embarrassment. Her breath caught, and she immediately looked away, unable to meet his eyes.

“Be quiet,” she said quickly, trying to hide her flustered expression. “Don’t talk nonsense.”

Deepak watched her carefully, noticing the way her cheeks turned pink and how she avoided looking directly at him.

Seeing her shy because of him brought an unexpected warmth to his heart. A quiet happiness settled inside him.

A faint smile curved on his lips.

“You’re blushing,” he said softly, unable to hide the amusement in his voice. “And it’s because of me.”

Deeksha immediately frowned, trying

to hide her embarrassment.

“Have you lost your mind?” she replied quickly. “Why would I blush because of you? Let go of my hand. I have to leave.”

She tried to pull her hand away, her fingers struggling against his grip, but Deepak held on. Instead of letting go, he tightened his hold slightly, as if he didn’t want the moment to end.

“I don’t want to let go,” he murmured, his eyes fixed on hers. “Not your hand.”

Deeksha turned toward him with an irritated look, her anger visible in her expression. Yet beneath that annoyance, her heart continued to beat wildly, making it impossible to stay unaffected by him.

Deeksha tried to pull her hand back, her voice low and uneasy.

“What are you doing?” she whispered nervously. “Everyone is here. Someone will notice us. Let go… I need to leave.”

Deepak looked at her with quiet amusement, refusing to release her hand.“Give me a kiss,” he said teasingly, his eyes locked onto hers. “Then I’ll let you go.”

Deeksha’s breath caught in surprise. She immediately looked around the room, making sure no one was paying attention, before turning back to him with wide eyes.

“Are you crazy?” she hissed softly. “Who asks for a kiss in front of everyone?”

A smile spread across Deepak’s face as he watched her panic.“So you’re saying you’d rather kiss me when we’re alone?” he asked, leaning slightly closer.

Deeksha stared at him, completely flustered.“I never said that,” she replied quickly, trying to sound firm despite the nervousness in her voice.

Deepak chuckled softly, enjoying every second of her reaction.

“Relax,” he murmured. “I was just teasing you.”

His expression softened as he looked at her.“Just stay here for a while. I like having you close to me.”

Just then, Divya’s eyes landed on Deepak and Deeksha sitting closer than usual, their hands quietly locked together as if the rest of the room no longer existed for them.

A teasing smile curved on her lips. She leaned toward Ishani and subtly pointed in their direction.

Ishani followed her gaze and instantly smiled, warmth filling her expression as she watched the silent closeness between the two.

But Divya was never the type to simply watch and stay quiet.

With playful confidence, she walked over and deliberately squeezed herself between Deepak and Deeksha.

The sudden interruption forced Deepak to release Deeksha’s hand. He looked at Divya with narrowed eyes, already sensing trouble.

Divya glanced from one to the other, a mischievous sparkle dancing in her eyes.

“Well, well,” she said dramatically, “what secret meeting is happening here? You both look far too comfortable.”

Deeksha immediately shifted awkwardly, avoiding eye contact.

Divya leaned closer, lowering her voice just enough to make it worse.

“Should I assume you two are already planning to give Mannat a little brother or sister?”

Deeksha’s eyes widened in shock. Her cheeks turned crimson as she stared at Divya, completely speechless.

“Didi!” Deepak said quickly, trying to stop her. “What are you even saying?”

Divya laughed softly, completely unbothered.“Oh please,” she replied. “The way you both were sitting… anyone would think the wedding is already over.”

Deepak rubbed his forehead in frustration.“You seriously don’t know when to stop, do you?”

Divya folded her arms with mock innocence.“I’m only saying what everyone can clearly see,” she teased.

Unable to bear the embarrassment any longer, Deeksha quickly stood up.

Without looking at either of them, she walked away, her heartbeat louder than the laughter behind her.

Divya laughed even harder while Deepak watched Deeksha leave, helplessly shaking his head.

“You’re terrible,” he muttered. “You scared her away.”

Divya smirked proudly.“At least your story is moving ahead,” she said, leaning back comfortably. “Unlike Rahul.”

Deepak frowned slightly.

“What do you mean?”

Divya sighed dramatically.“You managed to make Deeksha yours,” she said softly. “But Rahul… he still doesn’t understand anything. If I don’t do something nothing will ever happen.”

Deepak looked at her carefully, realization slowly appearing in his eyes.“You’re talking about Rahul and Ishani… aren’t you?” he asked quietly.

Divya’s earlier teasing smile slowly faded, replaced by a calm seriousness.

“Yes,” she said firmly. “Now it’s your turn and mine. We have to do something… something that brings Rahul and Ishani closer. They need time together, time to understand each other properly.”

Deepak stared at her, clearly shocked by what he was hearing.

“Ishani Didi?” he asked in disbelief. “She has just lost her husband… do you really think she could even feel something like that for Rahul?”

He shook his head slightly, still trying to process her words.“And you…” he added, “you were the one who kept pushing Rahul and Bhavya together. You wanted them to end up with each other. And now suddenly… Ishani Didi and Rahul?”

Divya remained quiet for a moment, her playful energy gone completely.

Her gaze softened as she looked ahead, as if she could already see something others couldn’t.

“Sometimes,” she said gently, “life changes the path we planned… and our heart chooses someone we never expected.”

Deepak still looked unsure, his voice carrying a quiet resistance.

“You know Rahul,” he said slowly. “He’s not the kind of person who will ever openly tell Ishani Didi that he loves her. And Ishani Didi… after everything she has been through, do you really think she can even look at him that way? How will you even bring two people like that together?”

Divya didn’t answer immediately. She looked down for a moment, as if carefully choosing her words, then spoke with quiet certainty.

“We don’t force love, Deepak,” she said softly. “We only give it a chance to breathe.”

She lifted her eyes, calm but determined.“They don’t need grand confessions. They don’t need pressure. They just need moments… moments where they are in the same space, where silence becomes comfort instead of distance, where they start seeing each other beyond everything that has happened in the past.”

Deepak still looked conflicted. “But Rahul he has already changed. After Ishani Didi’s marriage, he is not the same anymore. He’s distant… lost somewhere.”

Divya nodded gently, her voice turning softer.“Exactly,” she said. “That’s why I want to try. Because I’ve seen him, Deepak… I’ve seen how he smiles less, how his eyes don’t stay happy for long anymore.”

A faint pause settled between them.

“And Ishani,” Divya continued, “she is learning to live again. She is strong, yes… but strength doesn’t mean she doesn’t feel lonely.”

Her expression softened completely.“If somewhere, even by accident, Rahul becomes the reason she smiles again… then tell me, Deepak… would that be wrong?”

Deepak’s gaze shifted quietly across the room. He noticed Rahul sitting at a distance, his eyes stealing glances toward Ishani when he thought no one was watching.

There was something unspoken in those looks something heavy, something he kept hidden behind silence.

Deepak exhaled slowly and turned back to Divya.

“Okay,” he said at last, his voice firm but calm. “I’ll do whatever it takes for my friend. Rahul also deserves love… and happiness.”

A soft, satisfied smile formed on Divya’s face as she listened to him.

“Good,” she said gently. “Then shall we begin our mission?”

Deepak nodded without hesitation.

“Yes.”

Divya’s eyes sparkled slightly as she looked toward Ishani and Rahul.

“Let’s see,” she murmured, “how two hearts that hesitate… slowly find their way to each other.”

Deepak followed her gaze, a faint smile appearing on his lips as they both watched Rahul and Ishani from a distance unaware of the plans quietly taking shape around them.

Time passed quickly, and within a day the entire house was already wrapped in engagement preparations.

Everyone was busy with shopping, planning, and last-minute arrangements.

Deepak, Deeksha, Rahul, Divya,

Ishani, Rani, Mannat, and Ishaan all went out together for shopping.

The atmosphere was light, full of excitement and chatter as they moved from one store to another.

Rani had originally tried to send Bhavya along with them, insisting again and again. But Bhavya refused to go. She stayed back at home, choosing silence over participation.

Rani didn’t push further, but it left her restless. And so, Rani made a decision of her own. If Bhavya wasn’t going, she would go herself.

Not for shopping… but to keep an eye on everything. She joined the group under the pretext of helping with preparations, but her real focus was clear in her mind Rahul and Ishani.

As they all moved together through the busy streets, Rani stayed slightly behind, her eyes constantly observing Rahul and Ishani.

Rahul, unaware of his mother’s presence and thoughts, kept stealing quiet glances at Ishani, his attention naturally drifting toward her again and again.

Rani noticed every glance, every moment of pause, every small interaction.

Her expression remained controlled, but inside, she was increasingly uneasy. It felt like something was slowly forming between Rahul and Ishani… something she was not ready to accept.

Rani’s eyes shifted suddenly and landed on Divya, who was moving around carelessly, as if she had no concern for how fragile her condition was. Instantly, concern turned into alarm.

She quickly walked over and gently but firmly held her arm.

“Divya, beta,” Rani said in a worried tone, “you are pregnant. Why did you even come? I told you so many times to rest at home. And look at you walking around like this… what if you slip somewhere? It could be dangerous.”

Divya gave her a small reassuring smile.“Mummy, I’m fine,” she replied softly. “Please don’t worry so much.”

But Rani didn’t calm down. Her grip tightened slightly, not out of anger, but fear.“How can I not worry?” she said, her voice trembling with responsibility. “Vaibhav trusted me with you. If anything happens to you… or the baby… what answer will I give him?”

Her eyes softened, filled with genuine concern.“I can’t take that risk, Divya. You need to be careful… for yourself, and for the little life inside you.”

Rani became so occupied with taking care of Divya that everything else slowly faded into the background.

Her attention stayed fixed on Divya, leaving the rest of the world of preparations moving on its own.

At the shopping mall, Deeksha’s excitement was obvious as she held up a beautiful saree and turned toward Ishani.

“Di,” she said softly, her eyes shining, “please wear this on my engagement day. You’ll look so beautiful in it.”

Ishani looked at the saree carefully. It was elegant, but rich and heavily decorated bright enough to draw attention.

A gentle, almost hesitant smile came to her lips.“It’s beautiful, Deeksha,” she said quietly, “but I think I’ll choose something simpler for myself. Let me keep it light… I don’t want to stand out too much.”

Deeksha immediately shook her head.

“No, Di,” she insisted with childlike determination. “I chose this thinking only about you. Please… at least try it once.”

Deepak, standing nearby, also looked at Ishani with a soft encouraging smile.“She’s right, Di,” he said gently. “Just try it once. Sometimes clothes look even more beautiful when you wear them than when you just see them.”

For a brief moment, Ishani didn’t respond. Ishani’s fingers paused over the fabric as a quiet ache settled in her chest. What will Dadu think? she wondered to herself. It hasn’t even been a year since he lost his grandson… and here I am, standing among colors and celebrations, choosing something so bright, as if life has already moved on. The thought filled her with guilt, making her heart feel heavier than before.

She looked up at both of them, her expression tender but firm.“I know you both mean well,” she said gently, “but I’ll be fine. Really. Let me choose something simple… something that feels right for me.”

Then she softened her voice, almost like a reassurance.“And you two… don’t worry about me. Enjoy your shopping.”

Before they could insist further, she gave a small smile, took Ishaan’s hand, and turned away.“I’ll pick something later,” she said quietly as she walked off.

Deeksha stood quietly, watching Ishani walk away with Ishaan.

Something about the way Ishani was holding herself back didn’t sit right with her heart. It felt like she was stopping her own life from moving forward, and that thought made Deeksha uneasy.

Her eyes stayed fixed in the direction Ishani had gone.

Deepak noticed her silence and spoke gently.“Deeksha,” he said softly, “let it be for now. Di just needs some space. We shouldn’t push her.”

Deeksha slowly came back to the moment and nodded.“Hmm… maybe you’re right,” she replied in a low voice, though her concern didn’t fully leave her eyes.

Deepak then changed the mood, looking at her with a small smile.

“By the way… what are you planning to wear for the engagement?”

Deeksha’s expression softened instantly.“A lehenga,” She said

Before she could say more, Mannat’s voice filled the air.“I want to wear a lehenga too!” she said happily, clapping her hands. “Mumma, I’ll wear the same as you!”

Deeksha’s face lit up at her daughter’s excitement. She gently pulled Mannat closer.“Of course,” she said with a warm smile. “Then we both will wear matching lehengas.”

Deepak looked at them and smiled, his tone light and affectionate.“Then it looks like the engagement will be full of beautiful people,” he said.

Mannat giggled at that.The sound of her laughter made Deeksha’s heart feel light, and for a moment, all her worries faded.

Ishani stepped out of the store of mall with Ishaan, still looking around for clothes for him.

The place was crowded, full of noise and movement, but she stayed focused on him.

Suddenly, Ishaan tugged at her hand.

“Mumma… I need to go to the washroom,” he said innocently.

Ishani looked down at him.

“Right now?” she asked softly.

Ishaan nodded.“Yes.”

She sighed quietly and started searching around. After a few seconds, she found the washroom signs and guided him there.

When they reached, she paused.

The washrooms were separate for men and women.

Before she could figure out what to do, Rahul came out of the men’s washroom.

Their eyes met.

Ishani’s face immediately showed relief.“Rahul…” she called gently.

Rahul stopped and looked at her.

Ishani walked a little closer.“Ishaan needs to use the washroom… could you please take him inside the men’s section?” she asked politely.

Rahul looked at Ishaan, then back at Ishani. After a brief pause, he nodded.

“Okay,” he said simply.

Ishani gave a small, grateful smile.

“Thank you,” she said softly.

“It’s fine,” Rahul replied.He took Ishaan’s hand and walked inside with him.

Ishani stood outside, waiting quietly.

After a while, Rahul came back holding Ishaan’s hand.

Ishani looked at her son.

“All done?” she asked gently.

“Yes, Mumma,” Ishaan replied.

Rahul began to walk away, but Ishani called after him.

“Rahul… wait,” she said.

He stopped.

Ishani held Ishaan’s hand again and walked beside him.

After a few steps, she glanced at Rahul with a faint, calm smile.

“You know…” she said lightly, “you always walk like you’re in a hurry. Where are you always running off to?”

Her tone was soft, almost teasing, but there was a quiet warmth in it as they continued walking together.

Rahul looked at her and said softly, “I’m not going anywhere.”

Ishani turned toward him, a faint smile touching her lips. “Then stay with me. I’m alone here… Divya is with Rani Aunty, and I’m doing all this shopping by myself for Ishaan.” She paused before asking, “By the way, did you buy anything for tomorrow’s engagement?”

Rahul shook his head. “No.”

“Then come with me,” she said gently. “We’ll buy clothes for Ishaan… and for you too.”

Rahul looked at her face the brightness in her smile, the warmth in her eyes. There was something comforting about the way she looked at him, something that made even silence feel soft.

“Okay,” Rahul said at last.

The three of them walked into a store inside the mall. Ishani immediately began searching through clothes for Ishaan, carefully picking outfits and holding them against him.

She held one coat against Ishaan and tilted her head thoughtfully.

“No… not this one,” she murmured.

Then her eyes landed on a deep-colored little blazer.“This one.”

A few minutes later, Ishaan stepped out wearing the tiny coat, looking impossibly adorable.

Ishani’s face instantly brightened.

“Oh my God…” she whispered, kneeling in front of him. “Look at you.”

She adjusted his collar carefully, her fingers gentle and loving, then kissed both his cheeks.“You look so handsome, Ishaan.”

Ishaan smiled brightly, his little face glowing with excitement.

Rahul stood nearby, watching quietly.

His eyes did not stay on the clothes or

the mirrors or the crowd.

They stayed on Ishani.

On the way she smiled at Ishaan.

On the softness in her touch.

On the warmth she carried without even trying.

For a moment, Rahul forgot where he was.

“Okay,” Ishani said, standing up and holding Ishaan’s hand. “Now your shopping is done.”

She turned toward Rahul.“Your turn.”

Rahul looked slightly uncomfortable,

almost caught off guard.

“What do you want to wear?” she asked, crossing her arms playfully. “Kurta-pajama? Suit? Coat and pants?”

Rahul glanced around helplessly. “I don’t know.”

Ishani laughed softly.“Of course you don’t.”

Without waiting for another answer, she walked toward the men’s section, scanning through outfits with complete focus.

Rahul and Ishaan stayed where they were.

Neither of them spoke.

Ishaan watched his mother move from one rack to another, her expression full of care and

excitement.

And Rahul watched the woman he loved completely unaware that, in that moment, she looked more beautiful than anything else in the entire store.

Her fingers moved across different fabrics, carefully studying colors and styles.

She paused many times, rejecting one after another until her hand finally stopped on a charcoal-grey coat with matching pants.

She pulled it out slowly.For a second, she imagined Rahul wearing it.

A small smile appeared on her lips.

Turning around, she walked toward him.“Rahul,” she said softly.

Rahul looked up. Ishani stepped

closer, standing right in front of him.

She lifted the coat and placed it gently against his shoulders.“Stand properly,” she murmured.

Rahul froze.

She moved even closer to adjust the fit, her fingers brushing near his collar as she straightened the fabric.

Her touch was light, simple, completely innocent.

But Rahul felt his heartbeat quicken instantly. The world around him seemed distant. The sounds of the store disappeared. All he could feel was how close she was.

Her soft fragrance. The warmth of her presence. The way her fingers lightly touched his shoulder while fixing the coat.

Ishani remained unaware. She looked at him carefully, tilting her head as

she checked the fit. A few strands of hair fell across her face as she focused.

Rahul looked at her quietly. So close.

Close enough to notice every small detail. Close enough for a simple moment to feel unforgettable.

Ishani stepped back slightly, studying him. “This looks really good on you,” she said honestly. “Simple… but elegant.”

Rahul looked at the coat for barely a second before his eyes returned to her. He didn’t need to think. Didn’t need another option.Because she had chosen it. And somehow, that was enough.

“I’ll take it,” he said softly.

Ishani blinked. “You didn’t even check anything else.”

Rahul gave a faint smile. “No need.”

She laughed lightly, shaking her head.

“You trust my choice that much?”

Rahul looked at her for a moment though. "More than you know."

But he only nodded quietly.

Ishani smiled, satisfied, and handed him the outfit.

Rahul took it from her hands carefully. For her, it was only shopping.

A simple afternoon. A normal moment. But for Rahul, it became something he knew he would remember for a long time.

“Okay then,” Ishani said softly, holding Ishaan’s hand. “Let’s go pay for Ishaan’s clothes… and yours too.”

She turned toward the billing counter, but Rahul’s voice stopped her.“You’re not buying anything for yourself?”

Ishani looked back at him, slightly surprised.“I already have a saree,” she replied simply. “I’ll wear that.”

Rahul frowned faintly.“But it’s an engagement,” he said. “You should buy something new.”

A small smile touched Ishani’s lips, calm and unbothered.“No, Rahul. I’m fine.”

There was no sadness in her tone, only quiet acceptance. For her, it didn’t matter.

She adjusted her hold on Ishaan’s hand and began walking toward the payment counter.

Rahul remained standing where he was. His eyes followed her as she walked away through the crowd, Ishaan happily walking beside her.

Something about it didn’t sit right with him.

She had carefully chosen clothes for Ishaan. She had spent time selecting something for him.

But for herself… nothing. As if she had quietly placed her own wishes somewhere far behind everyone else’s.

Rahul watched her reach the counter.

The bright lights reflected softly around her, yet there was something painfully simple about the way she stood there content with less, asking for nothing. And he didn’t like it. Not even a little.

After a moment, Rahul finally started walking toward the counter too.

His eyes never left her.

After the billing was done, they stepped out of the store together.

Ishani adjusted Ishaan’s hand in hers and glanced around with quiet excitement.

“Let’s go to Deepak and Deeksha,” she said softly. “I want to see what they’ve chosen.”

Rahul didn’t respond. He followed her without question, without hesitation ike it was the most natural thing to do.

Rahul and Ishani finally reached the place where Deepak and Deeksha were standing. Rani and Divya were already there, waiting.

As soon as Rani saw Ishani and Rahul walking together, she called out, “Rahul, where were you? I’ve been looking for you for so long.”

Rahul looked at her calmly. “I was buying clothes, Mummy.”

Rani’s eyes shifted to the shopping bag in his hand.

Ishani stepped forward gently. “Aunty, please don’t worry. I picked a really nice outfit for Rahul.”

Rani gave a small smile, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. She wasn’t fully comfortable with Ishani choosing things for him.

Still, she said nothing.

Ishani turned toward Deepak and Deeksha. “Did you both get something for yourselves?”

Deepak nodded. “Yes.”Deeksha smiled too. “We did.”

Before anyone could say more, Manat stepped forward excitedly. “I bought a lehenga!”

Everyone’s attention turned to her.

Ishani’s face lit up instantly. “Wow, Manat… you’re going to look the most beautiful at your parents’ engagement!”

Manat blushed and smiled shyly.

Rani looked around at everyone for a moment and then said, “Alright, since everyone has finished shopping, let’s

go home.”

There was a slight tension in her voice she didn’t fully like how Ishani and Rahul were moving together, how naturally they seemed to fit into the same space but she didn’t express it.

Everyone agreed. They started walking toward the exit together.

But suddenly, Rahul slowed down.

Then he stopped.

Rani turned back immediately. “What happened? Let’s go home.”

Rahul forced a small smile. “Nothing, Mummy… I just remembered something important. You all go ahead. I’ll come later.”

Rani frowned slightly. “Now? At this time?”

“It won’t take long,” Rahul replied calmly.

After a pause, Rani sighed. “Alright. Don’t be late.”

With that, everyone left together Deepak, Deeksha, Ishani, Ishaan, Rani, Divya, and Manat.

Except Rahul. He stood there for a moment longer, watching them go.

Rahul returned to the mall, this time walking into a store filled with rows of sarees neatly arranged in soft colors and shimmering fabrics.

“Show me sarees,” he said quietly.

The shopkeeper looked up. “For whom, sir?”

Rahul hesitated. Just for a second.

Then he cleared his throat, almost avoiding his own truth. “For… a female friend.”

“Okay,” the shopkeeper said and began showing options.

Sarees in red, gold, pink, heavy festive ones bright and loud.

Rahul’s eyes moved over them slowly.

None of them felt right.

Too heavy.

Too loud.

Too much attention.

His mind kept drifting to one face.

Ishani. The way she smiled without trying. The way she stayed simple, even when she deserved everything beautiful.

He didn’t even realize when he said softly, almost to himself, “No… not this.”

The shopkeeper paused. “Sir?”

Rahul shook his head slightly.

“Something simple. Light. Not too flashy.”

The shopkeeper nodded and showed more options.And then Rahul saw it.

A sky-blue saree.

Soft shade. Light zari work. Elegant in the most effortless way.

He stared at it longer than he should have.

This… this feels like her.

Before he even fully processed it, he said, “This one.”

The shopkeeper smiled. “Good choice. Very graceful piece.”

Rahul gave a small nod. “Pack it.”

As the saree was wrapped, Rahul stood quietly. The payment was made without hesitation. But the moment he took the bag in his hand, reality caught up with him.

He stepped out of the store and stopped near the corridor wall. His grip tightened slightly on the bag.

And for the first time, doubt entered his mind.

“What am I doing?” he muttered under his breath.

He looked down at the bag again.

“She’ll ask why I bought this…”

His jaw tightened.“And what will I even say?”

A friend?

The word felt strange on his tongue now. Incomplete. Unfair.

He let out a slow breath, frustrated with himself.“I didn’t even think… I just… bought it.”

His voice lowered, almost helpless now.“Why does it feel like I had to choose it for her?”

Silence answered him. Rahul closed his eyes for a brief moment, then opened them again.

He didn’t have answers.

Rahul reached home, still carrying the saree bag carefully in his hand.

As soon as he stepped inside, he stopped.

The house felt fuller than usual.

His father, Devnath, had returned from Banaras along with Vaibhav and Malini. Laughter and conversation filled the living room.

For a brief second, Rahul just stood there, taking it all in.

And then his eyes dropped to the bag in his hand.

A sharp thought crossed his mind.

If anyone asks… what will I say?

Without thinking, almost instinctively, he shifted the bag slightly behind him, trying to hide it from view.

But it was already too late.

Bhavya’s eyes caught the movement.

She noticed it immediately the way

Rahul tried to conceal something.

Before she could say anything, Malini turned and smiled warmly.

“Rahul beta,” she said softly. “How are you? It’s been so many days since I saw you.”

Rahul’s face softened at her voice. He forced a polite smile.“I’m fine, aunty,” he replied gently. “I’ll just go inside for a bit.”

Without waiting for more questions, he quickly moved toward his room.

His heart was beating a little too fast.

As soon as he entered, he closed the door and placed the saree bag inside the cupboard, almost as if hiding evidence of something he didn’t want to explain yet.

He stood there for a moment, staring at it.Why am I feeling like this?

He exhaled slowly, trying to calm himself.

After a few seconds, he walked back outside.The house was still filled with familiar voices.

Rahul stepped forward respectfully and touched Malini’s feet.

Malini placed her hand on his head lovingly. “Always be happy, beta.”

Then he turned to Devnath and bent slightly, touching his feet.

Devnath placed a firm hand on his head. “Stay blessed.”

“Tell me,” Devnath asked, looking at him carefully. “How are you? Everything okay at the police station?”

Rahul nodded immediately. “Yes, Papa. Everything is fine. Work is going well.”

A small, approving smile appeared on Devnath’s face.“Good,” he said simply.

But even as Rahul stood there smiling politely, his thoughts weren’t fully in the room anymore.

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

On the day of the engagement, the house was alive with movement—doors opening and closing, footsteps rushing, and voices blending into one busy rhythm.

Inside the room, Deeksha sat in front of the mirror while the parlour lady carefully dressed her. Her hands were slightly cold, her fingers restless. No matter how beautiful everything looked, nervousness still clung to her.

Ishani entered quietly and sat beside her.

“Deeksha… relax,” she said softly, adjusting a strand of hair from her face. “Everything is fine. It’s normal to feel nervous before engagement.”

Deeksha gave a small nod, but her eyes still showed anxiety.

After a pause, she looked at Ishani. “Di… please go and get ready too.”

Ishani smiled faintly. “I will. But you’re the bride today. So you come first.”

Deeksha shook her head. “No, Di… you always do this. You take care of everyone but never yourself. Please… go get ready properly. And also get Ishaan ready.”

Ishani hesitated, then sighed softly. “Alright… I’m going.”

Only then did Deeksha seem a little

calmer.

Ishani left the room and headed toward hers. The moment she entered, Divya followed behind her holding a saree.

"Here, I got this for you," Divya said, handing over a saree.

Ishani’s brow furrowed in confusion. "For me? Why?"

"Because your brother and I picked it out together," Divya explained with a warm smile. "We want you to look your best for the engagement."

Ishani looked down at the fabric a stunning, sky blue saree but hesitated. "No, Divya... it wouldn't feel right for me to wear something like this."

"Everything will be felt right," Divya insisted, cutting off her protest. "Just go and put it on."

After a good deal of persuasion, Ishani finally relented and took the saree to her room.

Divya watched her go, a satisfied smile on her face, before heading outside to find Rahul.

He was standing near the entrance, leaning against a pillar, clearly waiting for her.

"Well?" Rahul asked the moment he saw her. "Did you give her the saree?"

"Yes, it's done," Divya replied. Rahul couldn't help but let out a small, secret smile.

Divya noticed and poked him in the arm. "You know, you’ve never bought a saree for me like that, but you bought one for Ishani. What am I lacking, huh?"

Rahul groaned playfully. "Didi, I have  bought you plenty of things! You just forget. Fine, I’ll get you another one, okay? Just don’t eat my brain over it today."

"I eat your brain?" Divya gasped, offended.

"Yes, you do!" Rahul said.

Just then, Vaibhav walked up to the bickering siblings. "What’s going on here?"

"Look at this, Vaibhav!" Divya complained. "Your wife gets no respect around here."

Rahul looked at Vaibhav and said. "It’s nothing, Jiju. Just mood swings. Why don't you take her inside and get her something to eat?"

Before Divya could retort, Rahul made a quick escape.

Divya burst out laughing as he ran off.

Vaibhav shook his head, looking at her with a mix of affection and exhaustion. "Rahul is right, you know. Your pregnancy mood swings are getting worse. I think I might actually lose my mind before this baby is born."

Divya’s laughter stopped instantly, replaced by a mock glare. "Oh, really? You’re going to go crazy? You aren't the one carrying the baby! Do you have any idea how much it hurts to bring life into this world?"

She began a passionate lecture on the trials of pregnancy. Vaibhav stood there, silently nodding and listening intently. He knew better than to say another word if he opened his mouth now, the fire would only spread.

The hour of the engagement had finally arrived. Deepak stood at the altar of his new life, his palms slightly damp with a nervous energy.

This was the biggest day he had ever known, and yet, a part of him still couldn't fathom the reality of it: he was actually getting engaged to Deeksha.

Kiara, sensing his jitters, leaned in with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, 'Boyfriend'... I guess after today, we won't be girlfriend and boyfriend anymore, right?"

Deepak chuckled, a bit of the tension leaving his shoulders. "You're right about that. I’m a one-woman man, Kiara. I’m afraid I’m going to have to break your heart."

"Oh, that stings right here," Kiara teased, clutching her chest dramatically. "But honestly? I’m happy to have my heart broken if it means you’ve finally found the love you deserve."

Deepak was still smiling when he looked up and felt his breath hitch.

Deeksha was walking toward him, her

hand clasped firmly in Mannat’s. They were a vision in matching lehengas, the fabric shimmering under the ceremonial lights.

As Deepak watched them, a profound sense of peace washed over him. His world and his family were finally becoming one.

Deeksha came to a halt beside him, with Mannat standing proudly between them. "Papa!" Mannat chirped, tugging at his hand. "How do I look?"

Deepak swept her up into his arms, kissing her forehead. "You look like the most beautiful girl in the world," he whispered.

Mannat giggled and pointed a small finger. "And what about Mumma?"

Deepak’s gaze drifted to Deeksha. He looked at her with an intensity that made the air feel heavy. "Mumma," he said softly, his voice thick with emotion, "is beyond beautiful. There isn't a scale in the world that could measure how stunning she is."

Mannat let out a delighted giggle,

while Deeksha felt her heart hammer against her ribs. She couldn't bring herself to meet his eyes, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson at his words.

Rajni stepped forward then, performing the traditional ritual to ward off the evil eye. "May no shadow ever fall upon my children," she prayed fervently.

The priest announced that the auspicious moment had arrived. Deepak gently set Mannat down.

With trembling fingers and eyes full of unspoken promises, Deepak and Deeksha exchanged rings. The room erupted into thunderous applause, the joy of the onlookers echoing the silent vow of two souls finally finding their home in one another.

Deepak and Deeksha stepped forward together. First, Deeksha gently bent down and touched Rajni’s feet. Rajni placed her hand on her head with a soft, affectionate smile, blessing her quietly.

Then Deeksha moved to Rajvardhan.

As she touched his feet, Rajvardhan looked at her with a calm, warm smile one filled with years of affection and silent attachment.

“Deepak,” he said slowly, turning toward him, “I know you will take good care of my Deeksha.”

He paused for a moment, his voice softening.“But still… I want to tell you something.”

His gaze shifted back to Deeksha.

“She may look strong from the outside… but from within, she is very delicate. Very sensitive. Please take care of her.”

Deepak nodded immediately, respectfully. “Sir… please don’t worry. Deeksha is my responsibility now. I will take care of her with everything I have.”

Rajvardhan smiled faintly at that answer."Sir?” he repeated gently. “No… not sir.”

He stepped closer, his tone turning warmer.“Call me Nanu. Just like I am Deeksha’s grandfather… I am yours too now.”

Deepak smiled, slightly emotional. “Yes… Nanu.”

At that moment, Deeksha stood quietly, listening. Her eyes slowly filled with tears, but she said nothing.

Deeksha quickly wiped her tears and looked around the room, her eyes searching for someone.

Rajvardhan noticed her gaze and asked gently, “What happened, beta? Who are you looking for?”

Deeksha hesitated for a moment. “Ishani di… where is Ishani di?”

Rahul, who was standing nearby, also looked around quietly. He had been waiting for Ishani for a long time, but she was nowhere to be seen.

Rajvardhan shook his head slightly. “I don’t know, beta. Maybe ask Divya.”

Deeksha called Divya over and asked. "Where is Ishani Di? Ishaan is here playing with Mannat, but she’s missing."

Divya sighed. "She’s refusing to come out. I gave her that saree, but she’s convinced it’s not appropriate."

Deeksha frowned slightly. Without another word, she turned and walked toward the room.

When she entered, she saw Ishani sitting quietly, still wearing the saree Divya had given her.

She looked beautiful… but lost.

Deeksha’s voice softened. “Ishani di… what are you doing here? The engagement is happening outside and you’re sitting here alone?”

Ishani looked up quickly, slightly startled.“I… I can’t go out like this,” she said nervously. “What will Dadu think? What will people say? Abhay… he’s not even been gone for a year yet… and I’m wearing something like this…”Her voice broke slightly at the end.

Deeksha stepped closer, her tone firm but caring.“Di… Abhay bhai is gone. But you are still here. Your life didn’t stop there. And Dadu will never think anything is wrong. Please… come with me.”

Ishani shook her head, overwhelmed. “No… I can’t.”

Without waiting for another refusal, Deeksha gently held her hand.

“Come with me,” she said softly.

And this time, she didn’t let go.

She brought Ishani out of the room.

The moment they stepped into the hall, everyone turned.

Rahul looked up first.

And for a moment, he just stood still.

Ishani was wearing the saree he had chosen.

Sky-blue… simple… graceful.

And on her, it looked even more beautiful than he had imagined.

A small, unconscious smile appeared on his face.

Rajvardhan noticed the change in atmosphere immediately.

“What happened, beta?” he asked kindly. “Why were you inside?”

Deeksha explained everything.

As she spoke, Rajvardhan’s expression softened with understanding but also disappointment.

He looked at Ishani gently.

“Ishani,” he said warmly, “you are like a daughter to me. You can wear whatever you like. Nothing is wrong with that.”

He paused, his voice turning more emotional.“Abhay is no longer with us… but that doesn’t mean your life has stopped. You are still here. And you have every right to live, smile, and choose for yourself.”

Tears welled up in Ishani’s eyes.

She nodded slowly. “Ji, Dadu…”

Rajvardhan smiled gently. “Now come. Forget everything else. Today is Deeksha’s engagement. Enjoy it.”

Ishani wiped her tears and nodded again.But even as she stood there, surrounded by people, she still felt a little fragile… a little unsure…

And Rahul kept looking at her quietly, noticing everything she was trying so hard to hide.

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

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